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Bangkok to Vientiane from $13: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Bangkok, Thailand
to
Vientiane, Laos

How to Get from Bangkok to Vientiane: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$13 by busBest price
524.4 kmDistance
4h 6m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Bangkok to Vientiane with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  9m
Estimated price
$36-109
Recommended
Company
State Railway of Thailand
Train
Average Duration
9h  14m
Estimated price
$9-72
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 524.4 km
Duration: 4h 6m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$13-23
Company
Tara Tour and Travel
Bus
Average Duration
19h 
Estimated price
$13-40
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  6m
Estimated price
$41-103
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$51-242
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
6h  14m
Estimated price
$60-187
Company
Lao Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
4h  30m
Estimated price
$95-211
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
9h  10m
Estimated price
$110-170
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Bangkok to Vientiane

Your journey from Bangkok to Vientiane presents a fascinating transition from Thailand's bustling urban landscape to Laos' tranquil cultural retreats.

Best Neighbourhoods in Vientiane

Vientiane offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and attractions.

City Center
• Home to major landmarks like Patuxai and That Luang.
• Bustling markets and plenty of dining options.
Ban Anou
• Known for its laid-back cafes and local eateries.
• Close to the waterfront for scenic walks.
Sabaidee Village
• Features a blend of traditional and contemporary culture.
• Great spot for artisanal shops and craft markets.

Best Times To Visit Vientiane's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your experience at Vientiane's highlights.

That Luang
Early morning visits reward you with fewer crowds and cooler weather.
Patuxai
Late afternoon offers stunning sunset views and a vibrant atmosphere.
Buddha Park
Weekdays are ideal to enjoy a peaceful stroll among the sculptures.

Vientiane Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Vientiane experiences a tropical climate, with a distinct wet and dry season, making the cooler months from November to February the best times to visit. Understanding the weather patterns helps you plan your activities, ensuring enjoyable outdoor exploration and comfort during your stay.

Dining in Vientiane: A Culinary Perspective

Sample the traditional Laotian dish, Larb, at a local eatery like Pha Khao Lao, which offers a flavor profile that blends fresh herbs, lime, and minced meats in a way distinctively different from Bangkok's street food scene. The relaxed atmosphere and emphasis on locally-sourced ingredients create a dining experience that feels more personal and reflective of Laos' rich culinary traditions.

Bangkok - Vientiane operators

Explore transport companies operating between Bangkok and Vientiane, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
1348
Website
http://bmta.co.th

Bus from ตรงข้ามการบินไทยหลานหลวง;Thai Airways Larnluang to อาคารผู้โดยสาร ชั้น 3;Donmueng Terminal Floor 3

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$1-2
Contact phone
081-8794949
Website
https://12go.asia/en

Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Khon Kaen

Average Duration
6h 30m
Estimated price
$16-0

Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Vientiane Talat Sao Station

Average Duration
15h 21m
Estimated price
$13-28
Contact phone
+66 2 936 3256
Website
https://www.sombattour.com/

Bus from Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal to Khon Kaen

Average Duration
7h
Estimated price
$9-17
Contact phone
1490
Website
https://tcl99web.transport.co.th/Home

Bus from Khon Kaen to Vientiane Talat Sao Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$4-7
Contact phone
086 065 5466
Website
http://12go.asia

Bus from Bangkok Tara Travel to Vientiane

Average Duration
19h
Estimated price
$39-0
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
1690
Website
https://www.railway.co.th/

Train from Krung Thep Aphiwat Central Terminal to Nong Khai

Average Duration
8h 45m
Estimated price
$5-65
Plane Show flights
Website
http://airasia.com

Plane from Don Muang to Udon Thani

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$21-120

Plane from Don Muang to Vientiane

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$50-140
Website
http://thaiairways.com

Plane from Suvarnabhumi to Udon Thani

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$35-110

Plane from Suvarnabhumi to Vientiane

Average Duration
1h 17m
Estimated price
$100-250
Website
http://nokair.com

Plane from Don Muang to Udon Thani

Average Duration
1h 6m
Estimated price
$24-120
Website
http://lionairthai.com

Plane from Don Muang to Udon Thani

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$29-110
Website
http://vietjetair.com

Plane from Suvarnabhumi to Udon Thani

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$28-85
Website
http://laoairlines.com

Plane from Suvarnabhumi to Vientiane

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$95-240

Bangkok to Vientiane: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Bangkok and Vientiane offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Bangkok to Vientiane, covering a distance of 648.6 km, offering breathtaking views along the way. 💰 Experience the flexibility of prices ranging from $110 to $170 for the journey by car, allowing travelers to choose options that suit their budget. 🏞️ Immerse yourself in a journey filled with cultural richness and natural beauty, as you traverse for approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes to reach the charming capital of Laos, Vientiane.
Average price
$110 - $170
🚂 Embark on a scenic train journey from Bangkok to Vientiane which takes approximately 9 hours and 14 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 The prices for the train ride between Bangkok and Vientiane vary between $9 to $72, making it an affordable and convenient mode of transportation between the two bustling capital cities.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Bangkok to Vientiane, on-board catering services typically include meal options like Thai and Laotian dishes. You can expect a dining car with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, as well as snacks and beverages. Be sure to check the schedule for meal timings as services may vary depending on the train operator.
• Seats on this route usually consist of different classes: First Class, which offers reclining seats with more legroom and includes meals; Second Class (also known as Business Class), if available, provides comfortable seating with air conditioning; and Standard Class (Economy), which has basic seats and limited amenities. Notably, the State Railway of Thailand offers services with varying levels of comfort, so check the specific train you are booked on.
• The primary operators for this route are the State Railway of Thailand and Laos Railways. You can find more information on their services by visiting their respective websites: State Railway of Thailand and Laos Railways. For additional assistance, local transport schedules and station maps can be found on 12Go.Asia.
• Upon arrival at the Vientiane Train Station, be prepared for basic facilities. While luggage storage is not typically available, there are public restrooms; however, showers may not be accessible. It's a good idea to use the facilities before departing the station.
• The fastest way to reach the city center from the Vientiane Train Station is by taking a taxi or ride-hailing service (like Grab). Alternatively, you can catch local buses that operate from the station. Bus numbers may vary, so it's recommended to ask locals or station staff for the best routes available at your time of arrival.
🛫 The quickest way to travel from Bangkok to Vientiane by plane is to take a direct flight from Don Muang Airport to Udon Thani Airport, which only takes 1 hour and 5 minutes. 🌏 From Udon Thani Airport, you can then catch a connecting flight to Vientiane, which will take approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes to reach your final destination. 💸 Prices for flights between Vientiane and Bangkok can range from $95 to $211, depending on the airline and time of booking.
Departure Point
Don Muang Airport
Arrival Point
Udon Thani Airport
🚌 Traveling from Bangkok to Vientiane by bus offers a direct route that takes approximately 19 hours. 🌏 Departing from Bangkok Tara Travel, the Sun Bus service takes passengers on a scenic journey to Vientiane, with a stop at Vientiane Talat Sao Station. The 11.5-hour drive allows travelers to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of both Thailand and Laos. 💰 The bus fare for this route ranges from $13 to $23, offering an affordable way to travel between these two vibrant Southeast Asian cities.
Departure Point
Bangkok Mochit Bus Terminal station
Arrival Point
Vientiane Talat Sao Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your ticket in advance either through Bangkok Tara Travel's website (bangkoktaratravel.com) or Sun Bus (sunbus.co.th) to secure your spot, as this route can fill up quickly, especially during local holidays.
• Prepare for a long journey by packing snacks, a refillable water bottle, and download entertainment on your mobile device, as the bus will have limited stops along the way; restrooms are available, but the frequency of stops may vary.
• Upon arriving at Vientiane Talat Sao Station, you will find various transportation options like tuk-tuks and public buses; it's advisable to negotiate the fare upfront with tuk-tuk drivers and be aware that many destinations within the town are within walking distance.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Bangkok to Vientiane.

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The distance between Bangkok and Vientiane is 523 km or 649 km by road. The typical travel times vary based on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 9 hours and 14 minutes to reach Vientiane from Bangkok. By taking a flight from Suvarnabhumi to Udon Thani and then a bus, the travel time is around 4 hours and 50 minutes. Alternatively, flying directly from Bangkok to Vientiane takes about 4 hours and 13 minutes. Reverse travel times from Vientiane to Bangkok by car and bus are approximately 9 hours and 10 minutes and 12 hours and 27 minutes, respectively.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Bangkok to Vientiane is by taking a bus via Nong Khai, which costs between $13 and $26 and takes approximately 12 hours and 27 minutes. This option offers a budget-friendly alternative, but it does take longer due to the distance. If time efficiency is a concern, flying is the quickest option, taking around 4 hours and 13 minutes and costing between $95 and $230.
When traveling from Bangkok to Vientiane the prices for a train ticket range from $9 to $72. If you prefer to take a bus, the prices range from $13 to $26.
To travel from Bangkok to Vientiane without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to hire a private car or taxi. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 649 km, and it takes about 9 hours and 10 minutes to drive from Bangkok to Vientiane. The prices for hiring a car or taxi can vary from $110 to $170, depending on the service provider and vehicle type.
The most convenient way to travel from Bangkok to Vientiane without a car is by bus via Nong Khai. This journey takes about 12 hours and 27 minutes and costs around $13 to $26. Another option is to fly directly from Bangkok to Vientiane, which takes approximately 4 hours and 13 minutes and costs between $95 to $230. Alternatively, you can take a train from Bangkok to Vientiane, which takes around 9 hours and 14 minutes and costs between $9 to $75.
Yes, there is a direct link between Bangkok and Vientiane. There is a bus service operated by Nakhonchai Air that departs from Bangkok Tara Travel and arrives in Vientiane. The journey takes approximately 19 hours and services operate once daily.
The flight between Bangkok and Vientiane typically takes about 1 hour. There are direct flights available from Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok to Vientiane Airport. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $96 to $221, depending on the airline and the time of booking.
There are plenty of accommodations available near Vientiane with over 150 hotels to choose from. Prices start at $24, ensuring there is an option for every budget.