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How to travel from and to Vientiane Airport (Wattay)
Vientiane is the capital of Laos located on the banks of Mekong River. It used to be a French trading post but nowadays it has transformed into a hub for stunning temples, eccentric markets, cheap spas, and charming cafes. Although most backpackers use Vientiane as a stop between Vietnam and Thailand, the city is still worth a day or two. Wander the boulevards, chill out at the park, or sample tasty treats from one of the city’s many French bakeries.
Getting from Vientiane Airport to the city has only 2 options: you can either take the shuttle bus or a taxi. The shuttle bus costs 2$ and will take you to the Central Bus Station in 35 minutes. If you prefer to take a taxi, the rate to the city is $2 and takes about 15 minutes.
2 ways to get from and to Vientiane Airport (Wattay)
From/To Vientiane Airport by Airport Shuttle
Launched in 2018, the airport shuttle bus service provides travellers with an alternative for the taxi. The buses aren’t brand new, but they provide just enough comfort and legroom for passengers.
The shuttle bus runs every 35 minutes and a one-way ticket costs 15.000 Kip or about $2. Check the official website of the airport to see all the stops.
If you have an early morning flight, you can take the first bus at 08:35 from the airport to the Central Bus Station. Traveling to the airport? In this case, you can take the earliest bus heading to the airport at 07:55. The last bus leaves the airport at 21:40 and the last bus heading to the airport from the bus station departs at 21:05.
Travel time is about 35 minutes and the bus arrives and departs from the Central Bus Station in Vientiane.
You can buy a bus ticket just before you board the bus.
The shuttle bus pass by a few hotels. The list below should help you decide if taking the shuttle bus from the airport is beneficial.
- Mekong Hotel
- Somerset Vientiane
- AV Hotel
- Sabaidee @ Lao Hotel
- Settha Palace Hotel
- Vientiane Plaza Hotel
- Chaleunxay Hotel
From/To Vientiane Airport by Taxi
You’ll see taxi service counters near the exit gate when you head out of the baggage claim area. During peak season, you may have to wait in line for a taxi.
Standard rates for taxis from the airport to the city centre is $7 for a 4-seater sedan and vans are available at $8. The same rates usually apply if you wish to go from the city centre to the airport. If taxi drivers charge a much higher rate, try to negotiate a good price.
Some high-end hotels also provide a pick-up service. Just make sure you arrange the service beforehand.
The taxi ride will only take 15 minutes from the airport, as the airport is only 3 km from the city centre.
Instead of taking a taxi, you can also rent your own car (without a driver) at the airport.
Book Your Shared Van Ride Online
Booking a shared van ride online is convenient. The advantage of booking online is that you forego the hassle of going to the counter to arrange for a transfer. As soon as you head out of the arrival hall, the driver will already be ready to usher you to the van. The cost of the van ride is $7 per person. Prefer this option? Then just click the button below!
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
Our favourite places to stay in Vientiane
Routes from Vientiane
Most popular routes in Laos
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.
