High-speed train
Fastest, easiest, and very comfortable
Bus / minivan
Cheapest option but less comfortable
Private car/taxi
Flexible and door-to-door but more expensive
Flight
No direct flights available
Quick answer: The main transport options from Vang Vieng to Vientiane are bus/van, train, or private car/taxi with driver. Each offers a different balance of speed, cost and convenience. The most popular options are bus and train transfers. You can book tickets/car to Vientiane from Vang Vieng online in advance.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: approx. 120 km between Vang Vieng and Vientiane.
- ⏱️ Travel time: Bus/van ~2‑5 h | Train ~1‑1.5 h | Private car ~2‑3 h
- 💰 Price range: Bus/van ~$8‑14 per person | Train ~$6‑25 per person | Private car ~$80‑200 per car
- 🚆 Best for comfort: Train or private car/taxi with driver
- 🚍 Best for budget: Bus or van
Last updated in June 2026
From Vang Vieng to Vientiane you can travel by bus, minivan, train or taxi.
Traveling from Vang Vieng to Vientiane is easy, with buses, minivans, trains and private taxis available. Buses and minivans take about 2.5–5 hours, while the modern Laos-China Railway reaches Vientiane in only 1–1.5 hours. Train tickets cost about $6–25 per person, while buses start from around $7. There are no direct flights on this route.
Vientiane is also the main gateway to Thailand. From the capital, you can continue to Udon Thani, Bangkok or even to Siem Reap in Cambodia. Tickets can be searched and booked online in advance.
Vientiane – the capital of Laos and a major transport hub.
Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos. Thanks to its international airport and railway connections, it serves as the country’s main transport hub and a popular stop for travelers exploring Laos.
The city lies about 160 km from Vang Vieng. From Vientiane, you can also travel to Don Det and other destinations in southern Laos. Before your visit, check the latest Weather in Vientiane.
| Transfer Mode – Vang Vieng to Vientiane | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Bus / Van | 2.5-5 hours | $7-$12 per person |
| Train by Laos-China Railway | 1-1.5 hours | $6-$25 per person |
| Private Car / Taxi | 2-3 hours | $80-200 per car |
How do I get from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
1. BUS / VAN from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
👉 Minibus or van is the cheapest and most common way from Vang Vieng to Vientiane.
- ✔️ Best for: budget travelers and those looking for frequent departures
- ✔️ Travel time: ~2.5–5 hours (can vary slightly)
- ✔️ Price: about $7–12 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate (seated minibuses or vans, often air-conditioned)
- ✅ Best Option: Minivan services with companies like RG Adventure or Soutchai Travel
- 💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance and confirm pickup/drop-off locations.
A minibus or minivan is one of the most popular ways to travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane, the capital of Laos. Several private operators run daily services, offering an affordable and convenient transfer between these two destinations.
The journey by minibus takes about 2.5–5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and the route. Most services depart from central locations or hotels in Vang Vieng and arrive at different points in Vientiane.
BOOK BUS TICKETS to Vientiane ➜
Tickets usually cost about $7–12 per person, making minibuses one of the cheapest transport options on this route. They are especially popular among backpackers and budget travelers.
Several departures are available every day and tickets can be easily searched and booked online in advance. Always check departure and arrival details before booking your transfer.
| Bus | Departs in Vang Vieng | Arrival in Vientiane | Bus Ticket |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Service | 12:00 | 14:00 | From $8.00 |
| Family Service | 14:00 | 16:00 | From $8.00 |
| Family Service | 09:00 | 11:00 | From $8.00 |
| Family Service | 16:00 | 18:00 | From $8.00 |
| Sarah Transport | 09:00 | 11:00 | From $12.00 |
| Sarah Transport | 12:00 | 14:00 | From $12.00 |
| Sarah Transport | 16:00 | 18:00 | From $12.00 |
| Sarah Transport | 12:00 | 14:00 | From $12.00 |
| RG Adventure | 16:00 | 18:00 | From $20.00 |
| Laos Luxury Travel | 09:20 | 11:20 | From $8.00 |
| Laos Luxury Travel | 12:20 | 14:20 | From $8.00 |
| Laos Luxury Travel | 14:00 | 16:00 | From $8.00 |
| Laos Luxury Travel | 16:20 | 18:20 | From $8.00 |
| Exploring Laos | 09:00 | 11:30 | From $8.00 |
| Exploring Laos | 12:00 | 14:30 | From $8.00 |
| Exploring Laos | 14:00 | 16:30 | From $8.00 |
| Exploring Laos | 06:00 | 08:30 | From $8.00 |
| Exploring Laos | 19:00 | 21:30 | From $8.00 |
| Laos Group Tour | 09:00 | 12:00 | From $10.00 |
| Soutchai Travel | 08:00 | 10:00 | From $12.00 |
| Soutchai Travel | 11:00 | 13:00 | From $12.00 |
| Soutchai Travel | 13:00 | 15:00 | From $12.00 |
2. TRAIN from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
👉 Train is the fastest and most efficient way from Vang Vieng to Vientiane.
- ✔️ Best for: travelers who want a quick and smooth journey
- ✔️ Travel time: ~1–1.5 hours
- ✔️ Ticket price: about $6–25 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (modern trains with multiple seating classes)
- ✅ Best Option: Laos-China Railway trains with 2nd class or business seats
- 💡 Tip: Book tickets online in advance and use the e-ticket QR code for boarding.
The fastest way to travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane is by train. Modern Laos-China Railway trains connect both cities in about 1–1.5 hours and offer several seating classes.
Trains depart from Vang Vieng Railway Station and arrive at Vientiane Railway Station. You can check the route on the Lao Railway Map. Rail travel is comfortable, reliable and often faster than buses.
Train tickets cost about $6–25 per person, depending on the class selected. Tickets can be searched and booked online in advance as e-tickets.
Train travel in Laos is one of the most convenient ways to explore the country thanks to the modern railway network.
BOOK TRAIN TICKETS to Vientiane ➜
| Train Service: | Departs in Vang Vieng | Arrival in Vientiane | Train Ticket – Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laos – China Railway (C81) | 20:16 | 21:08 | From $8-15 |
| Laos – China Railway (C83) | 19:36 | 20:31 | From $8-15 |
| Laos – China Railway (C97) | 11:38 | 12:38 | From $8-15 |
| Laos – China Railway (K11) | 18:43 | 20:04 | From $6-12 |
| Laos – China Railway (C91) | 13:49 | 14:56 | From $8-15 |
| Laos – China Railway (D87) | 15:41 | 16:34 | From $10-18 |
3. TAXI / CAR from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
👉 Private taxi or car is the most comfortable door-to-door option from Vang Vieng to Vientiane.
- ✔️ Best for: groups and travelers wanting privacy and flexibility
- ✔️ Travel time: ~2–3 hours
- ✔️ Price: about $90–200 per vehicle
- ✔️ Comfort: very high (modern cars or minivans with air-conditioning)
- ✅ Best Option: Private transfer with companies like RG Adventure or Glassflower
- 💡 Tip: Split the fare between passengers and choose your exact pickup location for convenience.
A private taxi or car with a driver is the most comfortable way to travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane. This option is ideal for families, groups or travelers who prefer a direct door-to-door transfer.
Various companies offer modern cars and minivans for up to 9 passengers. The journey takes about 2–3 hours and prices range from $90–200 per vehicle. More information about transportation in Laos is available in this guide: transport options in Laos.
Private transfers can be booked online in advance and e-tickets are accepted by operators. This is the fastest and most flexible transport option between Vang Vieng and Vientiane.
BOOK PRIVATE CAR to Vientiane ➜
| Taxi Service | Travel Time | Price (Car) |
|---|---|---|
| RG Adventure | 02:00 | From $93.00 / SUV 4pax |
| RG Adventure | 02:00 | From $141.00 / Van 9pax |
| Glassflower | 02:00 | From $153.00 / Comfort Car 3pax |
| Glassflower | 02:00 | From $184.00 / Luxury SUV 4pax |
| Glassflower | 02:00 | From $197.00 / Luxury VIP Van 9pax |
| Glassflower | 02:00 | From $197.00 / Luxury VIP Van 9pax |
| Adisorn Thai Laos Transfer | 02:30 | From $135.00 / SUV 5pax |
| Adisorn Thai Laos Transfer | 02:30 | From $152.00 / Minivan 8pax |
| Sarah Transport Laos | 02:30 | From $133.00 / Minivan 10pax |
| Vientiane Travel | 01:30 | From $140.00 / Minivan 6pax |
| Family Service | 01:30 | From $79.00 / Standard 3pax |
| Family Service | 01:30 | From $98.00 / Standard 8pax |
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
How to book bus or train tickets from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
What is the fastest way to travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
The train is the fastest option, taking about 1–1.5 hours.
How long does it take to get from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
Buses and minivans take 2.5–5 hours, while trains take about 1–1.5 hours.
How far is Vientiane from Vang Vieng?
The travel distance is approximately 160 km by road.
How much does travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane cost?
Bus tickets cost about $7–12, train tickets $6–25, and private taxis from $80 per vehicle.
Is there a train from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
Yes, modern trains run daily on the Laos railway network.
Can you fly from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
No, there are no flights because Vang Vieng does not have a commercial airport.
Is a private taxi available from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
Yes, private cars and minivans are available and can be arranged online or through local hotels.
Does Vientiane have an airport?
Yes, Wattay International Airport serves domestic and international routes.
Why visit Vientiane?
Vientiane offers temples, riverside markets, cultural sites, and easy access to Thailand.
Where can you travel from Vientiane?
You can continue to Bangkok, Luang Prabang, Pakse or Savannakhet.
Is Laos good for solo travelers?
Yes, Laos is safe, affordable, and popular among backpackers. Read more about solo travel in Laos.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Traveling from Vang Vieng to Vientiane covers about 160 km and you can travel by train, bus, minivan or private taxi.
- Take the Train: The fastest option, taking only about 1–1.5 hours.
- Use Buses or Minivans: Budget-friendly transfers taking about 2.5–5 hours.
- Book Early: Train tickets can sell out during busy travel periods.
- Arrive Early: Reach stations or terminals at least 30 minutes before departure.
- Bring Essentials: Carry water, snacks, chargers and some cash.
- Check Arrival Points: Trains and buses arrive at different locations in Vientiane.
- Travel Further: Vientiane is a major gateway to Thailand and southern Laos.
Tip: Train, bus and minivan tickets from Vang Vieng to Vientiane can be searched and booked online in advance.