BANGKOK to HO CHI MINH — Flight, Bus, Train? ☀️
Ho Chi Minh City from Bangkok — from Cambodia to Vietnam by various ways of transport.
- Ho Chi Minh City, situated in the southern region of Vietnam near the Mekong Delta, stands as the nation’s largest metropolis. Formerly known as Saigon, the city was renamed after Ho Chi Minh, the communist leader who imposed his regime with brutal repression during the latter half of the twentieth century, resulting in the loss of millions of innocent lives. Today, Ho Chi Minh City has transformed into a bustling modern hub, boasting a vibrant mix of economic, cultural, and industrial activities. Despite its tumultuous history, the city experiences a tropical climate characterized by a pronounced rainy season from May to October. While the standard of living for its residents is on the rise, there remains ample room for further development.
- Saigon, as it’s still affectionately referred to by some, attracts tourists with its array of attractions and serves as a vital transportation nexus in southern Vietnam. Tan Son Nhat Airport provides access to various destinations within Vietnam, while the Saigon Railway Station facilitates travel to central Vietnam and onwards to Hanoi. The predominant religion in Vietnam is Buddhism, though Catholicism and Protestantism also have significant followings.
- Visitors to this captivating destination should explore its cultural landmarks, such as the city theater and a multitude of intriguing museums, including the National Vietnam Museum, the War Museum, and the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Architectural wonders like the central mosque, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Thien Hau and Quan Am pagodas offer insight into the city’s diverse heritage. Additionally, a thriving commercial district boasts massive cinemas, amusement parks, and electronics outlets.
- Once considered a relic of communist ideology, Ho Chi Minh City has emerged as a thriving modern metropolis, welcoming tourists from around the globe. Travel options from Bangkok, Thailand, to Ho Chi Minh City include direct flights or tourist buses via Cambodia, with stops in Phnom Penh or Siem Reap.
The most popular options how to travel from Bangkok to Saigon:
- Travel by plane - direct flight from Bangkok to Saigon
- Travel by tourist bus via Cambodia - buses between Bangkok > Phnom Penh / Siem Reap > Saigon
⭐⭐⭐ Book direct flights and bus tickets from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can search another route, e.g. Bangkok > Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh > Ho Chi Minh, Siem Reap > Ho Chi Minh…)
From Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) you can travel by plane or bus/train via Cambodia.
- The distance between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) spans approximately 900 km overland, passing through Cambodia (via Phnom Penh or Siem Reap). The most efficient and quickest method to reach Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City from Thailand’s Bangkok is by air. Multiple airlines offer direct flights daily, including both low-cost and business options. These flights typically take around 1.5 hours and cost between $40 and $130 per person. Alternatively, there are flights with layovers in other Vietnamese or Cambodian cities, operated by various Southeast Asian airlines.
- For travelers wishing to avoid Cambodia and save time, flying directly is the recommended mode of transportation. Another option is traveling by tourist bus (or private car) through Cambodia. The journey via tourist bus through Phnom Penh takes approximately 19 to 25 hours, while the route through Siem Reap takes about 20 to 28 hours. Tickets for this route, covering both Thailand to Cambodia and Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City, typically cost between $35 and $50 per person for both legs of the journey. Traveling via Siem Reap presents the opportunity to visit the remarkable Angkor Wat Temple Complex, a must-see historical site in Southeast Asia. Buses traveling this route pass through the Poipet border crossing, approximately 5 km from Aranyaprathet city in Thailand, where there is a railway station. Travelers can also opt to take a train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet and then continue by bus to Siem Reap from Poipet, with tickets available for purchase online.
- Notably, there is no direct train route from Bangkok to Saigon, as there is no railway connecting Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City. While there is a railway from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet and from Battambang to Phnom Penh (operated by Royal Railways), travelers must rely on tourist buses or private minivans for the final leg of the journey from Phnom Penh to Saigon. From Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can further explore Vietnam by train or bus, with options available to visit destinations such as Phan Thiet. Travelers can easily search for and book direct flights or bus tickets from Bangkok to Saigon via Cambodia through online platforms.
⭐ Book your accommodation in Saigon online (Discount up to 60%) ⭐
How do I get from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City?
1. DIRECT FLIGHT from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City
- For travelers seeking a swift and comfortable journey from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), direct flights present an ideal solution. Several reputable airlines operate direct routes between these two vibrant cities, ensuring convenient access for passengers.
- Among the airlines offering direct flights from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City are Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, VietJet Air, Nok Air, Air Asia, Thai Airways, and Thai Lion Air. With a flight duration of approximately 1.5 hours, travelers can swiftly transition between these bustling Southeast Asian hubs.
- Pricing for direct flights typically ranges from $40 to $130 per person, offering reasonable fares for the convenience and efficiency they provide. Departing from either Suvarnabhumi Airport or Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok, passengers can embark on their journey to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Undoubtedly, direct flights offer the fastest and most comfortable means of travel between Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City. With minimal travel time and hassle-free boarding, passengers can enjoy a seamless journey to their destination.
- Additionally, for those open to alternative routes, there are various flights available via Cambodia. Travelers can opt for flights from Bangkok to Phnom Penh (or Siem Reap) before continuing their journey to Ho Chi Minh City, expanding their travel options while exploring multiple destinations in the region.
- Whether choosing the expediency of direct flights or exploring alternative routes via Cambodia, travelers can easily access the vibrant energy and rich culture of Ho Chi Minh City from the bustling streets of Bangkok.
⭐⭐⭐ Book direct flights and bus tickets from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
2. BUS from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (via Phnom Penh)
A) Traveling from Bangkok to Phnom Penh: A Convenient Bus Journey
Embarking on a journey from Bangkok to Phnom Penh? Traveling by bus offers a comfortable and cost-effective option to reach the Cambodian capital. With a travel time averaging between 12 to 13 hours, passengers can enjoy a scenic route covering approximately 660 km of distance.
Several reputable bus companies operate on this route, including Thero Express, Giant Ibis, and Virak Buntham, providing travelers with reliable transportation options. Bus tickets from Bangkok to Phnom Penh typically range from $23 to $30 per person, making it an affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers.
To ensure a smooth boarding process, passengers are advised to arrive at the bus station at least 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Upon booking, travelers will receive their bus e-ticket via email, which can be conveniently printed or stored on a mobile device for presentation at the ticket counter.
Alternatively, travelers can opt for a train journey from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet, situated approximately 5 km from the Poipet border crossing. From Poipet, buses are available to continue the journey to Phnom Penh or Siem Reap, providing flexibility in travel options.
B) Continuing the Journey: From Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City
Once in Phnom Penh, travelers can seamlessly continue their journey to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) via bus or minivan. With a travel time of approximately 6 to 7 hours covering a distance of about 230 km, this route offers convenience and efficiency for travelers.
Various bus companies operate on this route, including Giant Ibis, Virak Buntham, Mekong Express, Thero Express, and Kumho Samco, ensuring ample options for transportation. Bus tickets from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City typically range from $11 to $18 per person, providing affordability for travelers of all budgets.
As with the journey from Bangkok to Phnom Penh, passengers are advised to arrive at the bus station at least 30 to 60 minutes before departure. Upon booking, travelers will receive their bus e-ticket via email, ready for presentation at the ticket counter before boarding.
For those seeking alternative routes, traveling by boat and bus via Chau Doc in southern Vietnam presents another option to reach Ho Chi Minh City from Phnom Penh. With convenient transportation options and scenic views along the way, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free journey to their destination.
3. BUS from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (via Siem Reap)
A) Exploring Southeast Asia: Bus Travel from Bangkok to Siem Reap
Embarking on a journey from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the ancient wonders of Siem Reap? Traveling by bus offers a convenient and affordable option for adventurers seeking to explore Cambodia’s cultural gem. With a travel time ranging from 8.5 to 13 hours, passengers can traverse approximately 400 km of distance, taking in the diverse landscapes along the way.
Several reputable bus companies operate on this route, including Giant Ibis, Nattakan, and Virak Buntham, providing travelers with reliable transportation options. Bus tickets from Bangkok to Siem Reap typically range from $22 to $32 per person, making it an economical choice for budget-conscious travelers.
To ensure a smooth boarding process, passengers are advised to arrive at the bus station at least 30 to 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Upon booking, travelers will receive their bus e-ticket via email, ready to be printed or stored on a mobile device for presentation at the ticket counter before boarding.
B) Continuing the Journey: From Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City (via Phnom Penh)
From the awe-inspiring temples of Siem Reap to the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, travelers can continue their adventure via bus, immersing themselves in the rich culture and history of Southeast Asia. With a travel time ranging from 12 to 20 hours covering approximately 550 km of distance, this route offers an opportunity to experience the diverse landscapes and cultures of Cambodia and Vietnam.
Various bus companies operate on this route, including Kumho Samco, Thero Express, Giant Ibis, TheSinh Tourist, and Cambodia Post VIP, providing travelers with a range of options for transportation. Bus tickets from Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City typically range from $24 to $30 per person, ensuring affordability for travelers of all budgets.
Most buses traveling this route make a stopover in Phnom Penh, allowing passengers to explore the bustling capital city of Cambodia before continuing their journey to Ho Chi Minh City. As with the previous leg of the journey, passengers are advised to arrive at the bus station at least 30 to 60 minutes before departure and present their e-ticket for boarding.
Whether marveling at the ancient temples of Siem Reap or exploring the dynamic streets of Ho Chi Minh City, bus travel offers a convenient and immersive way to experience the beauty and charm of Southeast Asia.
❓ Faqs — Travel route from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):
How to book and buy tickets/flights from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)?
⭐⭐⭐ Search and book and buy tickets and flights from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can search and book another travel route, e.g. Bangkok > Phnom Penh, Phnom Penh > Ho Chi Minh…)
How long does it take to get from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City?
- Travel by plane from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (direct flight) takes about 1.5 hour.
- Travel by tourist bus from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (via Phnom Penh) takes about 19–25 hours.
- Travel by tourist bus from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (via Siem Reap) takes about 20–28 hours.
How much does it cost to travel from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City?
- Travel by plane from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (direct flight) costs about $40–130/pp.
- Travel by bus from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (via Phnom Penh) costs about $35–50/pp.
- Travel by bus from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (via Siem Reap) costs about $48–60/pp.
How far is Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) from Bangkok?
- Travel distance from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City is about 900–950 km by bus (via Phnom Penh or Siem Reap) and about 750 km by plane.
What is the most cheapest way of travel from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)?
- The most cheapest way of transport from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City is to travel by tourist bus via Cambodia, via Phnom Penh or Siem Reap. But you should also watch flight schedule because sometimes there are also cheap low-cost flights to Ho Chi Minh City.
What is the best and fastest way of travel from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)?
- The best and fastest way of transport from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City is to travel by plane, there are various direct flights every day. If you want to see and visit Cambodia - you have to travel by tourist bus to Cambodia and by bus from Cambodia to Saigon.
Is it possible to travel by train from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)?
- There is no direct train from Bangkok to Saigon. But you can travel by train from Bangkok to Aranyaprathet (about 5 km from Poipet border crossing with Cambodia) and from Poipet you can travel by tourist bus or minivan to Siem Reap or Phnom Penh in Cambodia.
Is it possible to travel by plane from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City via Cambodia?
- Yes, it is possible to travel by plane via Cambodia to Saigon. There are direct flights between Bankok > Siem Reap > Saigon and Bangkok > Phnom Penh > Saigon. It is a good way of transfer only if you want to visit Cambodia.
Where to go and travel from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)?
- Ho Chi Minh City is the most important transport hub in southern Vietnam. From Ho Chi Minh City you can travel to southern or central Vietnam by various ways of transport. You can visit floating markets in Can Tho, or you can continue in travel to Cam Ranh.
What to see and visit in Ho Chi Minh City?
- Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market - experience busy negotiations and shouting in the real Asian markets. Binh Tay Market serves mainly locals and you will find fresh fruits and vegetables, poultry, meat, pho and seafood from all over Vietnam.
- Cao Dai Temple - Cao Dai Temple was completed in 1955, during the construction of the Cao Dai Army during the Japanese occupation of Indochina.
- Jade Emperor Pagoda - The Emperor Jade Pagoda is one of the 5 most important temples in Saigon. It is a beautiful representation of the Mahayanist branch of Buddhism, which is widespread in Vietnam.
- Notre Dam Cathedral - Saigon’s Notre Dam Cathedral, built in the late 1880s, is one of the few surviving strongholds of Catholicism in predominantly Buddhist Vietnam. It is located on Paris Square.
- Post Office Building - The Central Post Office in Saigon is a perfectly preserved remnant of the times of the French colony and probably the largest post office building in all of Southeast Asia. It is located next to Notre Dame Cathedral, offering you the opportunity to experience the time of the Indochinese Empire.
- War Remnants Museum - The Saigon War Remnants Museum is a shocking reminder of the long and cruel Vietnam War. In the museum you will find period photographs, US military equipment, a helicopter, a tank, a fighter plane or, for example, a bomb weighing 6,800 kilograms.
- Reunification Palace - A symbol of the government of South Vietnam, as well as the former presidential palace, which ended its original function on April 30, 1975, by breaking through the gates with North Vietnamese tanks and raising the Vietcong flag on the 4th floor of the building. Key attractions include a heliport, a bar with a casino, a conference hall and, most importantly, an underground bunker with a war hall.
- Cu Chi Tunnels - Cu Chi’s secret underground passages offer visitors a glimpse into the trenches of the Vietnam War. It is about 70 km from Ho Chi Minh City. The underground network includes 120 km of tunnels with falling doors, living rooms, kitchens, storage rooms, armories, hospitals and command centers.
