In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 340 kilometre distance from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. 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 Vientiane to Luang Prabang. You can choose between the bus, train, shared minivan, flight. The most affordable option is by bus, starting from $22. The fastest route is by flight (1h 40m).
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1h 40m
$66
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3h 15m
$24
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7h 45m
$22
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8h
$25
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We recommend taking the night bus with King of Bus leaving at 20:00 and arriving at 07:00. However, bear in mind that travelling by night is less safe as roads are not well-lit.
While departure points are different for each bus company, all the buses will drop you off at the Southern Bus Terminal in Luang Prabang. This bus station is about 2 km from the city centre. Be aware that night buses have a slightly higher fare than day buses.
Expect to reach the ancient town of Luang Prabang within 7h 45m - 14h.
Travelling by train is the most practical option from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. Travel time is only 3h 15m - 5h 20m, way faster than any of the other land transfers for this route.
Combined fares start from $24, depending on the train seat you choose.
A minivan ride from Vientiane to Luang Prabang costs around . The minivan journey takes about , depending on traffic.
There are companies operating on this route: .
Flying is a quick way to get from Vientiane to Luang Prabang — but not much faster than the train, yet much more expensive.
Travel time with the flight takes about 1h 40m. Combined fares start from $66, including airport transfers.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Luang Prabang is the former royal capital of Laos. A beautiful fusion of traditional Lao architecture and colonial design, this ancient city sits at the junction of the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers. Luang Prabang lifts up your spirits with its 33 Buddhist temples and awakens your senses with its picturesque landscape.
Backdropped by mountains, adventurers will find plenty of things to do in Luang Prabang. You'll find turquoise waterfalls, trekking trips and biking trails on the outskirts of town. Our favourite part? The friendly atmosphere and slow life that it was somehow able to maintain despite the growing number of tourists.
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Carbon Footprint
This 340 km journey produces approximately 30 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.
Most travelers base themselves near the main beach for easy access to transport, restaurants, and activities.
Sakaodeuan Hotel located within the Old Town of Luang Prabang is in an ideal location to explore some of the city's best sights. You're less than 1km away from both Mount Phousy and the Night Market.
The rooms are spacious, comfortable and clean. One of the best things about this hotel are the staff who are there to help you with anything. And the complimentary breakfast is a highlight of the stay. It's delicious!
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