The 5 Best Ways to Get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane

Heading to Laos, you won't want to miss exploring Luang Prabang and Vientiane, the country's key commercial hubs and stunning jewels. The journey from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, about 340 km apart, can be puzzling for newcomers. To navigate this, we've compiled a guide outlining the top 5 travel options: by plane, bus, boat, motorbike, or private car, ensuring you find the best route for your trip between these captivating cities.

1. By Flight

Travel by plane is regarded as the easiest and most convenient way for your journey. It will take you about 40 - 50 minutes for a Luang Prabang to Vientiane flight. There are two airlines having flights that connect the two cities: Lao Airlines and Lao Skyway, of which Lao Skyway is the more economical option. Both fly every day, Lao Skyway operates two flights per day meanwhile Lao Airline's flight changes relying on the day of the week.

Whichever airline you choose, your journey will start at Luang Prabang International Airport and reach Wattay International Airport in Vientiane. These airports are located not too far from the city center so you can easily take public or local transport to transfer to your accommodation in town.

Plus, though you can travel quickly by plane, it's also the most expensive way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. A helpful tip for you is that you should check flight schedules and book your airfare in advance your trip's date as far as possible for receiving the best deals.

2. By Bus

Taking a bus is considered the cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. Since the distance between the two cities is about 340km, the bus ride is very long. You need to spend at least 11 hours traveling to reach Vientiane by bus.

The advantage of getting the bus is that you will have an opportunity to admire great scenery along the way. There are many types of buses such as Seating Bus, Sleeper Bus or Minivan. Minivans are faster but Sleeper bus is highly recommended, especially the night sleeper bus as you can stretch your legs and have a comfortable sleep before arriving at Vientiane.

Depending on the seat position, the facilities you choose and the season of the year, Luang Prabang to Vientiane bus price fluctuates from 25$ to 33$. The ticket can be bought directly at Luang Prabang bus station or booked online. Some trustworthy bus companies: Naga Travel, Soutchai Travel .

3. By Cruise on Mekong River

There is no doubt that Luang Prabang to Vientiane by boat is the most romantic way for your trip. If you're planning to explore the hidden beauty of Laos on the majestic Mekong River, the easiest way to do it is booking Laos river cruises from some tour agency. They will provide you a full package comprising boat, accommodation, and meals. You can choose whether to use speed boat, river cruise, overnight cruise for your journey.

The river speedboat embarks from Luang Prabang in the morning and often takes about 11 hours to get to Vientiane. Its capacity is a maximum of 6 people and its price is quite reasonable. On the other hand, the overnight cruise is more expensive but it offers you a great chance to relax and enjoy a lot of exciting activities on and off-shore. You can book a Mekong river cruise via Mekong Sun Cruise, Mekong Pearl Cruise.

4. By Motorbike

If you want your route from Luang Prabang to Vientiane to become a real adventure, travel by motorbike is another fascinating option for you. The first thing to do is renting a good motorbike. When you find one that fits your budget, you have to check it carefully for safety reasons. Since Laos is renowned as land covered with "green", a motorbike excursion will offer you a unique experience while witnessing the stunning scenery along the way.

Apart from long trousers, coat, and some cash make sure to grab a map or download a map on your phone before starting your trip. If this won't work, you can ask the locals for directions. They are very friendly and delight to help. However, not everyone can speak English in Laos so learn some basic words is not a bad idea at all.

Suggested Read: Top 8 Fascinating Things to Do in Laos

5. By Private car

Last but not least, you can get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane by car. Similar to travel by motorbike, this is a flexible but more comfortable option for you. With a transfer by car, you will also have an opportunity to admire the beauty of regions on the way. Despite being expensive, the advantage of the private car is that it is convenient and suitable for a family or a small group of friends.

Hopefully, Top Mekong Cruises have just given you some useful suggestions of how to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. For more travel ideas, cruises and tours in South East Asia, please do not hesitate to contact us!