Laos

How to get from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre

In this in-depth route guide, you can compare the best ways to travel the 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre. Our team of indpendent travel experts researched each route — breaking down each option by travel time, price, and comfort. Plus, we’ll share the best booking options to help you get the best deal.

Written by Maarten - Trip Planning Expert

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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.

What are the 2 ways to travel from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre?

There are 2 ways to travel the 8 kilometers (5 miles) from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre. You can choose between the Airport Shuttle and taxi. The journey takes 15 to 35 minutes and the quickest way is by taxi. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by airport shuttle with tickets starting at $2 (43,000 LAK).

Transport

Duration

Pricing

Transport Options

Airport Shuttle

35m

From $2 (43,000 LAK)

Taxi

15m

From $7 (152,000 LAK)

Book Tickets

Where to stay in Vientiane?

Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Vientiane at the bottom of this page.

Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre by Airport Shuttle

Duration: 35 minutes

Costs: $2 (43,000 LAK)

Duration: 35 minutes

Costs: $2 (43,000 LAK)

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 $2 (43,000 LAK). Check the official website of the airport to see all the stops.

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

Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre by Taxi

Duration: 15 minutes

Costs: $7 (152,000 LAK)

Duration: 15 minutes

Costs: $7 (152,000 LAK)

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 (152,000 LAK) for a 4-seater sedan and vans are available at $8 (174,000 LAK). 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.

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 (152,000 LAK) per person. Prefer this option? Then just click the button below!

Check Shared Van Ride Tickets

Best places to stay in Vientiane

Patuxay Place - Budget Friendly

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 per night.

Check Available Rooms

S 2 Modern Boutique Hotel - Mid Range

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 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Eastin Hotel Vientiane - Treating Yourself

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 per night.

Check Available Rooms

Frequently Asked Questions about Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre

What is the distance from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre?

The distance from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre is 8 kilometers (5 miles).

What is the fastest way to get from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre?

The fastest way to get from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre is by taxi and takes 15 minutes.

What is the cheapest way to get from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre?

The cheapest way to get from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre is by airport shuttle with ticket costs starting from $2 (43,000 LAK).

Rounding it up

We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Vientiane Airport (Wattay) to the city centre. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.

PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!

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About the author(s)

Maarten

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.