How to get from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Vang Vieng is a riverside town north of Vietnam. This backpacker mecca, famous for tubing and its party scene, is isolated by caves and limestone mountains. From mountain biking and kayaking to rock climbing and caving, Vang Vieng is the ideal spot for people who seek adventure, thanks to its rocky yet picturesque surroundings.
Vientiane is the sleepy capital of Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Despite being the largest city in the country, there is not much to do in the former French trading post. The vibe is undoubtedly very laid-back and unlike major cities like Hanoi or Bangkok, Vientiane is not crazy nor chaotic. Sip a Beer Lao along the Mekong River, sample tasty treats from many French-inspired bakeries, or ride a bicycle along the quiet streets.
Bus from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
The only option to travel the 160 km journey from Vang Vieng to Vientiane is by taking the bus or van. Since the bus has more legroom, we prefer the bus over the van. Travel time from Vang Vieng to Vientiane takes about 3 hours and a ticket costs $11.
Itinerary from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Vang Vieng to Vientiane by Bus
Thavisouk and Soutchai Travel are the two bus companies operating on the route between Vang Vieng to Vientiane. Expect to pay between $9-$11 for a single journey trip. The two bus companies offer only 2 trips daily and you should consider this when making your travel plan through this route.
Also, keep in mind that the roads are not in great condition which means you can expect a slightly bumpy ride for this 3-hour trip.
Bus schedule from Vang Vieng to Vientiane
Thavisouk
- Departs from any hotel
- Arrives at Northern Bus Terminal
Soutchai Travel
- Departs from Soutchai Vang Vieng Station
- Arrives at Soutchai Vientiane Office along Rue Nokeokoummane Rd. in the city centre
Overall, travellers seem to provide satisfactory reviews about Soutchai Travel aside from the occasional complaints of drivers driving too fast and late departures.
Our favourite places to stay in Vientiane
Mini S Hotel
Set just slightly outside of downtown Vientiane, this hotel offers peace, quiet and a great night’s rest. The hotel is new with clean modern furnishings and extremely comfortable beds. They offer an outdoor swimming pool and bicycle rentals. Breakfast is included daily with your stay. There is a shuttle that runs guests to and from the downtown area.
- New modern hotel
- Breakfast included
- Shuttle service
- Swimming pool
Private rooms start at $21 per night
Atlantic Vientiane Hotel
An excellent location in central Vientiane, just a 5-minute walk from the Mekong River, you will find numerous restaurants, shops, bars, and amenities nearby. The hotel is clean, comfortable and the rooms are very spacious. Each room comes with a TV and refrigerator as well as a private bathroom. Shuttle and laundry services are available upon request and a delicious breakfast is included daily with your stay.
- Great location
- Breakfast included
- Close to shops, restaurants, and sights
- Clean and spacious rooms
Private rooms start at $26 per night
Champa Boutique Hotel
Located in the heart of Vientiane, this hotel is the perfect location. It is within walking distance to many sights, the night market, the Mekong River, and countless restaurants, shops, and amenities. There is an outdoor pool situated in a lovely garden setting which is a great place to cool off after exploring the city. Breakfast is included daily. The rooms are clean and the beds are very comfortable.
- Ideal location
- Breakfast included
- Swimming pool
- Clean and comfortable
Private rooms start at $44 per night
More routes to Vientiane
Vientiane Airport to Vientiane
More routes from Vang Vieng
Most popular routes in Laos
About the author(s)
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.
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.
Very helpful! Thanks.
Thanks Max! Have a wonderful trip in Laos!