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Vientiane is the capital of Laos, 219 kilometres (136 miles) downriver from Luang Prabang. It's a low-key city of riverside temples, French bakeries and golden stupas. Flying is the quickest option, taking 1h 40m. Overland, the shared minivan is the cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, at $21 (470,000 LAK). The train costs a bit more but is quicker, at 3h 20m - 4h 40m.
Distance from Luang Prabang to Vientiane
Luang Prabang and Vientiane are about 219 km (136 miles) apart, and the journey itself covers around 314 km by road. The quickest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane is by taking the flight, which takes around 1h 40m.
3 ways to travel from Luang Prabang to Vientiane
There are three ways to travel from Luang Prabang to Vientiane. You can choose between the train, shared minivan, and flight. The journey takes 1h 40m–8h and the quickest way is by flight. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by shared minivan with tickets starting at $21 (470,000 LAK).
Reach out to our Community
1How about travel from Luang Prabang to Vientiane by river? Slow boat/speed boat? I only see up/down stream from Pakbeng to Luang Prabang.
Hi Peter, thank you for pointing that out! Indeed you can travel this distance by speedboat or cruise ship. We've read there are speedboats leaving Luang Prabang in the morning, but we don't really recommend it as it takes 11 hours. Some people have also said it's neither safe nor comfortable.
As for cruise ships, they normally take 4 days and 5 nights to complete this journey. Top Mekong Cruises seem to be the most popular choice, with rates from $1,000 per person. You'll have to inquire with them to get the actual rate depending on your chosen cabin. You can take either Mekong Sun Cruise (topmekongcruises.com) or Mekong Pearl Cruise (topmekongcruises.com). Hope this helps! Safe travels!
“Very comprehensive information. Thank you.”
“Great information. I didn't know that there was another airline aside from Laos Airlines. Thanks for the site.”
Our favourite places to stay in Vientiane
Here are our favourite places to stay in Vientiane for every budget.
Patuxay Place
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.
- Spacious and modern rooms
- Free drinking water
- Amazing staff
- Perfect location
Private rooms start from $29 (640,000 LAK) per night.
S 2 Modern Boutique Hotel
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.
- Beautiful hotel
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Onsite gym
- Delicious restaurant
King rooms start from $39 (870,000 LAK) per night.
Eastin Hotel Vientiane
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.
- Stunning river views
- Modern and clean hotel
- Recently built
- Courtesy car to city centre
Private rooms start from $66 (1,460,000 LAK) per night.
ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION
Why Visit Vientiane?
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.
Rounding it up
That's the full picture for getting from Luang Prabang to Vientiane, roughly 219 kilometres (136 miles) apart. In all, there are 3 ways to make the trip. The cheapest fare is $21 (470,000 LAK). The quickest trip takes 1h 40m.
Prices and timetables change, so it's worth a quick check before you travel. Have a question, or travelled this route recently? Ask the community below and we'll do our best to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the distance from Luang Prabang to Vientiane?
The distance from Luang Prabang to Vientiane is 219 kilometres (136 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane?
The fastest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane is by flight and takes 1h 40m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane?
The cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane is by shared minivan with ticket costs starting from 470,000 LAK.
About the Authors
Founder & Trip Planning Expert
Based in Bali, Maarten's passion for travel is undeniable. In 2016, he decided to quit his job as a stock analyst and started doing what he always dreamed of: travelling through South East Asia and helping other people plan their trips. When he is not working on Gecko Routes, you'll find him surfing in the ocean or exploring the best gems of Indonesia.
Senior Travel Writer
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she's not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines. Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she'll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
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