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In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 650 kilometre distance from Bangkok to Vientiane. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.
There are 4 ways to get from Bangkok to Vientiane. You can choose between the flight, train + van, train, bus. The most affordable option is by flight, starting from $1. The fastest route is by flight (1h 10m).
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1h 10m
$1
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11h
$1
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11h 30m
$10
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15h 30m
$986
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In a hurry to get to Vientiane? Then you better book a flight. Flying from Bangkok to Vientiane can be quite cheap if you book in advance. However, ticket prices increase quickly closer to the travel date.
AirAsia and Lao Airlines offer the cheapest flights starting at $1 for a one-way trip. The flight takes about 1h 10m.
Note that Lao Airlines flights depart from Suvarnabhumi Airport and AirAsia flights depart from Don Muang Airport. Make sure to check which airport your flight is departing from!
All flights land at Vientiane Airport, which is officially named Wattay International Airport. Read our article about how to go from and to Vientiane Airport to find the best way to get to the city centre.
If you don't want to sit on the same train for 12 hours straight, you have the option to take a combined train and bus from Bangkok to Vientiane. Prices start at , and the journey takes around .
What you have to do is take a train to Nong Khai and then from there, take another train to Thanaleng, and then finally another transfer to the city centre. We break down the steps below.
A direct train from Bangkok to Vientiane started operating in July 2024. The journey is long, lasting about 11h 30m, but it runs overnight, allowing you to rest during the trip.
There are several seating options from 3rd class fan seats to first-class beds, with prices starting at $10.
The arrival point in Vientiane is at the newly-built Vientiane Railway Station in Khamsavath, 6 km from the city centre.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Vientiane is Laos’ fascinating capital city sitting on the banks of the Mekong River. A former French trading post, the city has kept many of its historical influences and original architecture undamaged.
True, there is not much to do in this sleepy city — and that’s exactly what sets Vientiane apart from other capital cities in Southeast Asia. It is a hub for temples, markets, spas and cafes. Our favourite spot is the riverside, where you can relax with a cold Beer Lao and just watch the sunset over the Mekong.
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Taking the bus is also a good alternative to flying from Bangkok to Vientiane. Like the train, it will require some time to reach Vientiane, but can save you money if you are late with booking your flight.
Transport Co. offers one trip daily at 20:00. The cost of the bus ticket is $986. Its bus departs from Mo Chit Bus Terminal and arrives at Talat Sao in the city centre.
You can also book with Khao San Tara Tour, but its travel time is 19 hours. Its bus departs from Khao San and parks at Khua Din Bus Station near the city centre.
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Carbon Footprint
This 650 km journey produces approximately 58 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.
Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
OOliver S.November 2025Ferry
Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.
The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.
Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.
Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.
Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.
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Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Patuxay Place is great value for money. The rooms are spacious, modern and decorated to a high standard. The hotel has thought of every detail, including free drinking water on every floor of the hotel.
The staff want to make sure you have the best stay possible, offering a helping hand whenever you need it. They're full of recommendations too! The hotel is situated in a great location in Vientiane.
This hotel is beautiful! S 2 Modern Boutique Hotel boasts a modern and simple decor with pops of colour. Every corner of this hotel is aesthetic. There's also an outdoor swimming pool, onsite gym and delicious restaurant. There's even a barista.
It's good to know that it isn't located directly in the city centre, so you'll need to grab a taxi to visit popular attractions. Don't worry though, the friendly and helpful staff are always on hand to help you get somewhere.
If you want to splash the cash a little, Eastin Hotel is the place to do it. Overlooking the Mekong River, it's hard to find a better view to wake up to. The hotel was built recently meaning that everything is fresh, clean and very modern.
The hotel is located 10 minutes outside of the city, but there's a courtesy car to take you there and back. The service here will make your stay an unforgettable one.
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