How to Get from Bangkok to Vientiane: Train, Bus, Van or Flight
All the practical information you need to travel from Thailand’s capital Bangkok to Laos’ capital Vientiane — by train, plane, bus or van. Find out the best routes, schedules and transport options to make your trip easy.
Best Ways to Travel from Bangkok to Vientiane
There are several ways to reach Vientiane from Bangkok — van, bus, train, or plane. Each option has its own advantages depending on your time, comfort level, and budget.
Bangkok – Vientiane by Van
This is the most popular choice for travelers who need to reach Vientiane quickly, especially those renewing their Thai visa within a short timeframe.
Thai Visa Renewal
Several companies operate this route. Their services and prices are quite similar (around 2300–2500 THB round trip). This option is fast but exhausting — the round trip takes less than two days. It’s convenient for administrative purposes, not for sightseeing or comfort.
Our Tip:
The van option is best only for visa runs. It’s uncomfortable, cramped, and the drivers are often in a hurry to keep to strict schedules. For those visiting Laos to travel, it’s better to choose the train or a flight.
Bangkok – Vientiane by Bus
The VIP bus offers more comfort than a minivan, though the trip is long — over 12 hours from Bangkok’s Northern Bus Terminal to Vientiane’s main bus station. The ticket price is reasonable considering the distance. You can buy tickets in three ways:
- Directly at the bus terminal
- Through an agency (some near Khao San Road offer VIP buses)
- Online, to save time and avoid misunderstandings
Bangkok – Vientiane by Train
The most comfortable and scenic way to reach Vientiane from Bangkok is by train. The night train offers a relaxed experience with good comfort and great value for money.
The train arrives in Nong Khai, the Thai border town facing Laos. From there, you can take a tuk-tuk, songthaew, van, or another short train ride to the border crossing — it’s easy and straightforward.
Bangkok – Vientiane Combo: Train + Bus/Van
This combo option involves taking the train to Nong Khai and then a van or bus to Vientiane. It’s the most practical and enjoyable way to travel!
Flying from Bangkok to Vientiane
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel between the two capitals. You have two main options — a short indirect route via Udon Thani or a direct flight to Vientiane.
Bangkok – Udon Thani by Air
Airasia operates two daily flights from Bangkok to Udon Thani, a city close to the Lao border. The flight takes only 50 minutes and often features great promotions.
From the airport, you can easily find minivans heading to the border (around 200 THB). After clearing Thai immigration, take a short shuttle (20 THB) to the Lao side, then bus No.14 to Vientiane’s main bus station (about 6000 LAK).
Direct Flights: Bangkok – Vientiane
The other option is a direct flight with Nok Air or Lao Airlines. It’s more expensive but saves time and avoids the hassle of transfers or negotiations for tuk-tuks.
In Addition
FAQ: Traveling from Bangkok to Vientiane
What is the fastest way to travel from Bangkok to Vientiane?
Flying is the fastest option — around 1 hour with direct flights, or slightly longer via Udon Thani.
What is the cheapest way to get to Vientiane from Bangkok?
The bus is the most affordable choice between the two capitals.
How long is the trip from Bangkok to Vientiane?
Depending on the transport, the journey takes between 10 and 14 hours.