Vang Vieng to Vientiane Route Overview
Vang Vieng to Vientiane is one of the most travelled routes in Laos, connecting the karst-mountain town of Vang Vieng with the capital city. Since the Vientiane–Vang Vieng Expressway and the Laos-China Railway opened, the journey that once took most of a day on the old mountain road can now be done in as little as one hour.
Distance from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
The straight-line distance between Vang Vieng and Vientiane is about 107 km. By road via the new expressway, the distance is approximately 109–115 km, with a drive time of around 1–1.5 hours at speeds up to 100 km/h. On the old Route 13, the same trip covers a longer, winding mountain road and takes 3.5–4 hours. By rail, the Laos-China Railway covers the distance in as little as 55 minutes.
How to Travel from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Train (Laos-China Railway)
The high-speed train is the fastest and most comfortable option, running at speeds up to 160 km/h with a journey time of about 55 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes. Second class fares run roughly $10–12, first class $25–28, and business class $40–42, with reclining seats and complimentary snacks. Vang Vieng Station is about 2 km from town (10–15 minutes by tuk-tuk), and Vientiane Station is roughly 30–45 minutes from the city centre. Arrive at least 60 minutes before departure for security screening, and book ahead in peak season (November–March), as second class seats sell out quickly.
Bus and minivan
Buses and minivans are the most budget-friendly option, taking 1.5–3.5 hours depending on the vehicle and traffic, with fares around $8–15. Many operators offer hotel pickup in Vang Vieng and drop-off near Talat Sao bus station or central Vientiane. Buses stop periodically for toilet breaks on longer routes.
Private taxi / transfer
A private car takes about 1.5–3 hours and costs roughly $70–130 per vehicle (not per person), making it a good value option for families or small groups, and allows for stops along the way.
Comparison table
| Option | Travel time | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laos-China Railway | ~55 min – 1h20 | $10–42 | Speed and comfort |
| Bus / minivan | 1.5–3.5 hrs | $8–15 | Budget travellers |
| Private taxi | 1.5–3 hrs | $70–130/vehicle | Families, groups, flexible stops |
Booking Tips
Tickets for the train and popular minivan departures sell out fast during the dry season (November–March), so book at least a few days in advance. Train tickets are also sold at station counters starting 3 days before departure. For minivans, confirm your hotel pickup point the day before, as some operators consolidate multiple hotels into a single meeting spot.
FAQs
How far is Vang Vieng from Vientiane?
The straight-line distance is about 107 km. By road via the new expressway it’s roughly 109–115 km; the old Route 13 route is longer.
How long does it take to get from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
By train: about 55 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes. By bus or minivan: 1.5–3.5 hours. By private taxi: 1.5–3 hours.
How much is a train ticket from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
Second class fares are around $10–12, first class around $25–28, and business class around $40–42.
Should I take the train or the bus?
The train is faster and more comfortable, ideal if you want to minimise travel time. The bus or minivan is cheaper and often includes hotel pickup, which suits budget travellers.
How far is Vang Vieng train station from the town centre?
About 2 km, roughly 10–15 minutes by tuk-tuk, or a 20–25 minute walk with light luggage.
Can I buy train tickets on the day of travel?
Tickets go on sale at the station 3 days before departure, but booking online in advance is recommended, especially in peak season when second class seats sell out quickly.
Do buses and minivans offer hotel pickup in Vang Vieng?
Yes, most tourist-oriented minivan operators offer hotel pickup in Vang Vieng and drop-off near central Vientiane or Talat Sao bus station.
How much does a private taxi cost from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
A private car transfer typically costs around $70–130 per vehicle, which can be cost-effective when split among a group.