By Evelyn Nguyen, May 28, 2025
Thailand and Vietnam - two shining stars of Southeast Asia - have long captured the hearts of travelers from around the world. Both countries are known for their stunning nature, rich culture, tasty food, and friendly people.
If you're torn between sipping coconut water on a Thai island or slurping a hot bowl of Pho in a bustling Vietnamese street, you’re not alone. So, which one should you choose for your next big tour? Let’s dive into travel tips & experiences and find out which destination fits your travel style best.
When it comes to affordable travel in Southeast Asia, both Vietnam and Thailand are budget-friendly, but if you're really watching your wallet, Vietnam is usually the cheaper option overall.
Is Vietnam or Thailand better to visit? In Vietnam, budget travelers can easily find hostels or guesthouses for $6-$10 per night, and even comfortable mid-range hotels or boutique stays for $20-$40. In rural areas or smaller towns like Ninh Binh or Hoi An, prices drop even lower.
In Thailand, hostels in cities like Bangkok or Chiang Mai start from $8-$12, and mid-range hotels typically range from $30-$60. Island destinations like Phuket or Koh Samui are often more expensive, especially during high season, with even basic rooms starting around $40 or more.
Thailand landmark sighseeings
Vietnam is famous for its cheap and delicious street food. You can grab a bowl of Pho, a plate of Com Tam (broken rice), or a Banh Mi for just $1-$2. Local beer (like Bia Saigon or Hanoi Beer) can be as low as $0.50 per bottle in local eateries.
Thailand also offers fantastic street food at low prices. Dishes like Pad Thai, green curry, or mango sticky rice are usually $2-$3 from a street stall. However, in touristy places like Phuket or the islands, the same meals can cost $5-$8, especially in sit-down restaurants. Alcohol is also more expensive than in Vietnam, with local beer costing around $1.50-$2.50.
Food tour in Vietnam
Getting around in Vietnam is very affordable. A short ride on a motorbike taxi (Xe Ôm) or Grab bike might cost less than $1, and long-distance sleeper buses or trains are budget-friendly, often $10-$25 for several hours of travel. Domestic flights between cities (like Hanoi to Da Nang) can be found for as low as $25-$50 if booked early.
In Thailand, public transport in cities is efficient but slightly more expensive. A BTS Skytrain ride in Bangkok is $1-$2, and domestic flights (like Bangkok to Chiang Mai or Phuket) often cost $30-$70, depending on the time of year. Ferries to the islands also add up, especially if you're hopping between several.
Thailand train vs Vietnam train
Which is best Vietnam or Thailand for activities? Many attractions in Vietnam, such as temples, museums, and historical sites, have low entrance fees (often $1-$5). Nature spots like waterfalls, rice terraces, or beaches are often free or very cheap to access. Guided tours (like Mekong Delta day trips or Halong Bay cruises) are reasonably priced.
Thailand has many tours and experiences, but popular activities like island-hopping tours, elephant sanctuaries, or cooking classes can be more expensive, typically $30-$80 per tour.
Both Vietnamese and Thai food are world-famous, and for good reason. They’ve appeared in numerous global food rankings like CNN’s ‘World’s 50 Best Foods’ and have received international awards and recognition for their flavors, diversity, and street food culture.
Vietnamese cuisine is all about balance and freshness. Dishes are often low in oil and use plenty of fresh herbs, vegetables, and rice-based ingredients. The flavors are clean, not overly spicy or rich, but still full of depth thanks to staples like fish sauce, lime juice, garlic, and chili.
Many meals focus on a balance of sweet, salty, sour, and umami, often letting diners adjust the flavor to their liking with condiments at the table.
Popular Vietnamese dishes:
Cao Lau on Cai Rang Floating Market Vietnam
Even coffee in Vietnam has a signature twist. Ca Phe Sua Da (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk) is strong, sweet, and refreshing, a must-try for caffeine lovers.
Why travelers love it:
Thai food is typically spicier and richer than Vietnamese food, especially in southern Thailand. But it’s also very diverse, from the sweet-and-sour balance of tom yum soup to the creamy comfort of Thai curries. It uses a wide range of ingredients from fragrant herbs like lemongrass and Thai basil to rich coconut milk, chili, and fish sauce, often in one dish.
Popular Thai dishes:
Pad Thai on Boat Vendor
Why travelers love it:
This is one of the most common questions travelers ask when planning a Southeast Asia trip.
Thailand is often the first choice when it comes to beach holidays. The country has hundreds of islands, ranging from world-famous destinations like Phuket, Koh Samui, and Koh Phi Phi, to lesser-known gems like Koh Lipe. These beaches are known for their soft white sand, turquoise water, and vibrant nightlife. You’ll find everything from full moon parties to peaceful wellness resorts. Island hopping is easy and well-organized, with boat connections running frequently between many islands.
Phuket Beaches in Thailand
In contrast, Vietnam’s beaches are still somewhat underrated, but that’s changing fast. The country has over 3,000 kilometers of coastline, offering everything from lively beach cities like Nha Trang and Da Nang to quiet retreats on islands like Phu Quoc and Con Dao. While the infrastructure isn’t as developed as in Thailand, Vietnamese beaches tend to be more peaceful, less touristy, and often more affordable. They also offer a unique mix of beach and culture, with historic towns like Hoi An or Hue nearby.
>> So, Vietnam or Thailand beaches are better?
Thailand and Vietnam are both rich in culture and history. But what you’ll see and learn in each country is quite different.
In Thailand, religion and tradition play a big role. You’ll see golden temples everywhere, especially in Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and Ayutthaya. You can learn about Buddhism, watch monks in the early morning, or even join a meditation class. Thai culture also includes Muay Thai boxing, traditional dance shows, and cooking classes, which many tourists love. You’ll also find royal palaces and ancient ruins that tell stories of Thailand’s kings and kingdoms.
Many activities in Thailand
In Vietnam, the culture is shaped by a long and complex history. You can visit old cities like Hue and Hanoi, explore French colonial buildings, and walk around ancient citadels and pagodas. Vietnam’s past includes many wars, and you can learn about them at places like the War Remnants Museum or the Cu Chi Tunnels near Ho Chi Minh City. In the countryside, you can try rice farming, go fishing with locals, or meet ethnic minorities in the northern mountains.
Hoi An Ancient Town in Vietnam
In general, Thailand feels more polished and tourist-friendly, while Vietnam feels more local and real, especially in smaller towns and villages.
>> So, which is better?
Thailand is well-known for its tropical beaches and islands. Places like Phuket, Koh Phi Phi, and Koh Samui have soft white sand, clear blue water, and great spots for snorkeling or diving. These destinations are very developed for tourism, with lots of resorts and beach bars.
Vietnam also has beautiful beaches such as Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc Island. Phu Quoc is growing fast, but in general, Vietnam's beaches are quieter and more relaxed. The water might not always be as clear as in Thailand, but you’ll often find fewer tourists.
Koh Phi Phi Island in Thailand
>> Thailand is better if you’re looking for picture-perfect islands with lots of tourist services. Vietnam is a good choice if you want peaceful, less crowded beaches.
Northern Vietnam offers dramatic mountain views and rice terraces, especially in Sapa and Ha Giang. The mountains are steep and wild, and many villages are home to ethnic minority communities. These areas are great for trekking and cultural experiences.
Northern Thailand also has mountains, especially around Chiang Mai and Pai. The scenery here is softer, with green hills, forests, and rivers. It’s a nice area for relaxed nature trips and outdoor activities.
Ha Giang Scenery
>> Vietnam is better for impressive mountain views and adventurous treks. Thailand is great if you prefer gentle landscapes and easy-going trips.
Thailand has a more developed tourist infrastructure. You can find good roads, regular domestic flights, and easy connections between cities and islands. Trains in Thailand are comfortable, especially the overnight ones between Bangkok and Chiang Mai. In popular areas like Phuket, Krabi, and Koh Samui, there are organized transfers and ferries that run smoothly.
Tuk-tuk - the popular transport in Thailand
Vietnam also has many travel options, including domestic flights, buses, and trains. Major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City are connected by low-cost airlines. However, train services are slower and older than in Thailand. Roads in Vietnam can be busy and chaotic, especially in cities. Long-distance buses are common, but sometimes less comfortable for tourists.
In Thai cities like Bangkok and Chiang Mai, public transport like the Skytrain (BTS), subway (MRT), and tuk-tuks make it easy to get around. Rideshare apps like Grab are widely used.
In Vietnam, cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are mostly traveled by taxi, motorbike taxi, or Grab. There are no subways (except for the new metro in HCMC that’s partly open), and traffic can be heavy. However, many travelers enjoy renting scooters or taking guided motorbike tours.
>> Thailand is usually easier for first-time travelers, especially if you want to book things on the go or travel between islands. Vietnam requires a bit more planning, especially in rural areas.
A: In general, Vietnam is slightly cheaper than Thailand for food, transport, and accommodation. You can find local meals in Vietnam for just a couple of dollars. Thailand is still very affordable, but popular tourist areas can be more expensive.
A: Yes, both countries are easy to explore on your own. However, Thailand is more beginner-friendly with better infrastructure and more English-speaking locals. In Vietnam, things can be more challenging but more adventurous.
Tam Coc boat tour
A: It depends on your nationality. Thailand offers visa-free entry to many countries for 30 to 45 days. Vietnam also has visa waivers for some countries, but many travelers need to apply for an e-visa. Check the latest info before you go.
A: Yes! Many travelers combine Thailand and Vietnam in one trip. There are direct flights between Bangkok and major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. You just need to plan your visa and flights in advance.
Titop beach in Halong Bay
Thailand is better for nightlife if you're looking for energy, variety, and late-night fun with beach parties, rooftop bars, nightclubs, and all-night entertainment. Cities like Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket are full of action, and islands like Koh Phangan host legendary Full Moon Parties that attract thousands of travelers.
Choosing to visit Vietnam or Thailand, two of Southeast Asia’s brightest travel destinations, is not easy. If you are still unsure, why not visit both? Incredible Asia Journeys is here to help you plan the perfect trip. Contact us today for a free quote and start your adventure in Southeast Asia.
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