Direct flight
Fastest and most convenient way to cross the border
Bus
Cheapest option with direct cross-border routes
Bus + boat
Scenic journey through mountains or Mekong region
Train
No railway connection between the two countries
Quick answer: You can travel from Hanoi (Vietnam) to Laos by plane or long-distance bus. Flights are the fastest and most comfortable option to reach places like Luang Prabang, Vientiane, or Vang Vieng, while buses are cheaper but take much longer (often 24+ hours). The choice depends on your budget and time.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: Hanoi to Luang Prabang ~1000 km by bus, ~400 km by plane.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Plane: Luang Prabang 1.5 h, Vientiane 1 h, Vang Vieng 8–10 h | Bus: about 25–27 h.
- 💰 Cost: Luang Prabang: $40–150 | Vientiane: $25–180 | Vang Vieng: $40–170, depending on transport.
- ✈️ Plane: Fastest but more expensive, direct flight to major cities.
- 🚌 Bus: Cheapest option with long travel times.
Last updated September 2026
Travel from Vietnam to Laos – Transport Guide
Laos is a popular destination for travelers continuing their journey from Vietnam. Known for its mountains, Buddhist culture and relaxed atmosphere, the country is home to destinations such as Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane and Phonsavan.
Sleeper buses connect several cities in Vietnam with destinations in Laos. They are usually the cheapest option, but journeys can be long.
Flights to Vientiane or Luang Prabang are the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between Vietnam and Laos.
Because road transport in Laos can be slow, travel times are often longer than expected. The two main ways to travel from Vietnam to Laos are by sleeper bus or flight. Bus services are useful for travelers on a budget, while flights are the best choice for saving time.
Compare available buses, flights and other transport options and book your tickets online in advance.
Top Destinations in Laos
The most popular destinations for travelers arriving from Vietnam include Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Phonsavan and Savannakhet. Depending on your starting point in Vietnam, you can travel by international bus or fly to major cities.
Travel within Laos has also become easier thanks to the Laos railway, operating since 2021. The railway connects Vientiane with Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang and northern Laos, making travel between the country’s main destinations significantly faster. Before planning your journey, it is also useful to check the weather and best time to visit Laos.
Vietnam to Laos: Which Transport Is Best?
| Transport | ⏱️ Time | 💰 Price | Comfort | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ✈️ Direct flight | 1–2 h | $110–180 / person | ★★★★★ | Speed & comfort |
| 🚌 Sleeper bus | 24–27 h | $25–50 / person | ★★★☆☆ | Budget travelers |
| 🏍️ Motorbike | Varies | Varies | ★★★☆☆ | Adventure travelers |
| 🚆 Train | Not available | — | ★☆☆☆☆ | Not possible |
Rating: ★★★★★ excellent ★★★★☆ very good ★★★☆☆ good.
Travel from Vietnam to Laos is possible mainly by direct flight or long-distance sleeper bus. Flights are the fastest and most comfortable option, while sleeper buses are much cheaper but take considerably longer. Experienced travelers can also cross the border by motorbike. There is currently no direct railway connection between Vietnam and Laos.
✅ How do you get from Vietnam to Laos?
- You can travel from Vietnam to Laos by sleeper bus, plane or motorbike. Popular bus routes include Hanoi to Luang Prabang and Hanoi to Vientiane. Direct flights are the fastest option, while motorbike travel is suitable only for experienced travelers.
✅ Is it possible to travel from Vietnam to Laos by train?
- No. There is currently no railway connection between Vietnam and Laos.
✅ Is there a railway in Laos?
- Yes. The Laos–China Railway connects Vientiane with northern Laos and Boten near the Chinese border. You can travel by train from Vientiane to Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. See the Laos Railway Map for more information.
✅ What is the fastest way to travel from Vietnam to Laos?
- Flying is the fastest option. Direct flights are available between major cities, including Hanoi to Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
✅ How long is the flight from Vietnam to Laos?
- A direct flight from Hanoi to Luang Prabang or Vientiane takes approximately 1.5 hours. Flights with stopovers take longer.
✅ How do I get from Hanoi to Laos?
- A direct flight to Luang Prabang or Vientiane is the fastest and most comfortable option. Sleeper buses are also available to destinations such as Phonsavan, Luang Prabang, Vientiane and Vang Vieng, but journeys are long.
✅ Where can you travel from Laos?
- From Laos, you can continue to Thailand, Cambodia or China by bus, minivan or plane.
✅ How can you explore Laos?
- Popular transport options include buses, minivans, trains, domestic flights, boats, private taxis and rental scooters or motorbikes. See Transportation in Laos for more information.
How to Book Tickets or Flights for Laos Online?
➜ You can easily search, book and buy bus tickets or flights for Laos (+ other countries in Asia) online. There are several reliable companies, but two of the main booking providers are 12go.asia and Baolau.
1. Book Tickets and Flights for Laos on 12go.asia
- 12go.asia is a popular booking platform for travel in Laos and Southeast Asia. You can search and book bus, train, ferry and flight tickets for many popular routes. Electronic tickets are available for selected services, and customer reviews can help when choosing transport.
2. Book Tickets and Flights for Laos on Baolau
- Baolau is another online booking platform for travel in Laos and Southeast Asia. It offers tickets from various transport companies, including buses, trains and flights, with electronic tickets available for selected routes.
🎫 Baolau
Search and book train, bus, ferry and flight tickets online in Asia, with schedules and electronic tickets.
🚌 12go.asia
A popular platform for booking buses, trains, ferries, private transfers and other transport services in Asia.
👮 Border Crossings Between Vietnam and Laos
Tây Trang Border
This border crossing near Dien Bien Phu is a popular route to northern Laos. The mountain scenery around the area is one of the highlights of this route.
Na Mèo Border
Na Mèo Border in Thanh Hoa Province is a quieter crossing often used for travel to Sam Neua and northeastern Laos.
Nậm Cắn Border
This crossing in Nghe An Province connects central Vietnam with Laos. Roads are mountainous, but the landscapes are beautiful along the way.
Cau Treo Border
Cau Treo is one of the busiest and most convenient border crossings between Vietnam and Laos, especially for routes to Vientiane.
Lao Bảo Border
Lao Bao Border is commonly used for travel from Hue or Da Nang to southern Laos and Savannakhet.
Bờ Y Border
Bờ Y Border in Kon Tum Province is more remote and suitable for adventurous travelers exploring central Vietnam and southern Laos.
📜 How to Get an E-visa for Laos?
Getting a tourist e-visa for Laos is simple and the whole process can be done online. The Laos e-visa is usually valid for a stay of up to 30 days.
- Visit the official Laos e-visa website: laoevisa.gov.la.
- Complete the online application form with your passport and travel details.
- Upload a passport photo and scanned passport copy.
- Pay the visa fee online by card.
- Wait a few days for approval by email.
- Print your approved e-visa and show it together with your passport when entering Laos.
Popular travel routes from Vietnam to Laos ⏬
The most frequented travel routes in Laos ⏬
Travel routes from Laos to Vietnam ⏬
Travel routes from Laos to Thailand ⏬
Travel route from Laos to Cambodia ⏬
Travel route from Laos to China ⏬
👉 Travel Tips for Vietnam to Laos
🛂 Check Visa and Border Requirements
Before traveling, check the current visa requirements and make sure your passport has sufficient validity. Entry rules and visa options may differ depending on your nationality and border crossing.
⏱️ Allow Extra Travel Time
Bus journeys between Vietnam and Laos can be long due to mountain roads, border procedures and traffic. Allow extra time when planning connections or accommodation after arrival.
🎫 Book Popular Routes in Advance
Flights and popular international bus routes can become limited during holidays and busy travel periods. Booking transport in advance can make your journey easier and give you more departure options.
💵 Carry Some Cash
It is useful to have some cash available when crossing the border, especially for local transport, food or small expenses. Card payments and ATMs may be less convenient outside larger cities.
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Vietnam to Laos:
How much does it cost to travel from Vietnam to Laos?
Flights from Vietnam to Laos usually cost about $110–180/pp, while sleeper buses cost approximately $25–50/pp.
How long does it take to travel from Vietnam to Laos?
Direct flights take about 1–2 hours, while sleeper buses from Hanoi to Laos can take 24–27 hours.
What is the travel distance from Vietnam to Laos?
The distance depends on the route, e.g. about 800 km from Hanoi to Vientiane by land.
What is the fastest way to get from Vietnam to Laos?
The fastest and most comfortable option is a direct flight from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Laos.
What is the cheapest transport option to Laos?
The cheapest option is usually a sleeper tourist bus from Hanoi or central Vietnam.
Is there a train from Vietnam to Laos?
No, there is currently no direct railway connection between Vietnam and Laos.
Can you travel by boat from Vietnam to Laos?
No, there is currently no direct international boat route from Vietnam to Laos.
Are there direct flights from Vietnam to Laos?
Yes, there are direct flights from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
What are the main international airports in Laos?
The main international airports are Vientiane International Airport and Luang Prabang International Airport.
Where can you travel from Laos?
From Laos, you can continue to Thailand or Cambodia by bus, train, or direct flight.
Where to get a Laos e-visa?
You can apply for a Laos e-visa online at laoevisa.gov.la.
