Overview Compare Bus Flight To Stay
How to get from Vientiane to Luang Prabang
Vientiane is the national capital of Laos situated on the northeast of Mekong River bordering Thailand. It has a laidback vibe and relaxed atmosphere compared to other Southeast Asian cities. Despite the city’s reputation for simply being a brief transit point, there are actually plenty of awesome things to experience here: from French-inspired architecture and many beautiful temples to delicious Lao food and eccentric local markets.
Luang Prabang is a UNESCO-listed town set in north-central Laos. It is often labeled as the “Jewel in Laos Crown” for its well-preserved cultural and architectural heritage. Travelers can sightsee the many Buddhist temples (there are 33!) or enjoy recreational activities such as climbing the mountains surrounding the city or sailing through the Mekong River.
2 ways to get from Vientiane to Luang Prabang
The fastest way to travel the 340 km journey from Vientiane to Luang Prabang is by taking a flight. It only takes 50min ($57) while the bus trip ($24) will take you 11 hours on the road. However, the bus is a more sustainable way of travelling and also saves you a few bucks.
Vientiane to Luang Prabang by Bus
When going from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, you can choose between a day or night bus. Taking the day bus doesn’t make much sense as you will be better off taking a flight.
We recommend taking the night bus with King of Bus leaving at 20:00 and arriving at 07:00. However, bear in mind that travelling by night is less safe as roads are not well-lit.
While departure points are different for each bus company, all the buses will drop you off at the Southern Bus Terminal in Luang Prabang. This bus station is about 2 km from the city centre. Be aware that night buses have a slightly higher fare than day buses.
Expect to reach the ancient town of Luang Prabang within 11 hours.
Bus schedule from Vientiane to Luang Prabang
| Bus company | Schedule | Duration | Costs |
|---|---|---|---|
| King of Bus | 08:00-19:00 20:00-07:00 | 11h | $22 $24 Check Bus Tickets |
| Naga Travel | 07:00-20:00 18:00-07:00 | 13h | $30 $33 Check Bus Tickets |
| Soutchai Travel | 18:00-08:00 | 14h | $27 Check Bus Tickets |
VIP buses provide flatbeds which accommodate 2 passengers. The flatbeds are generally comfortable and will allow you to get some rest.
King of Bus
- Departs from Vientiane Phanthavong Tour Office
- Arrives at the Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal, about 2 km south of the city centre
This bus company provides good services and is one of the most popular in Laos.
Naga Travel
- Departs from Vientiane Haysoke Guest House in the city centre, near the Agricultural Promotion Bank
- Arrives at the Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal, about 2 km south of the city centre
Naga Travel is generally more expensive, but their service is similar to that of other companies.
Soutchai Travel
- Departs from Vientiane Soutchai Travel Office in the city centre, near Khamkong Minimart or from your hotel (pick-up service)
- Arrives at the Luang Prabang Southern Bus Terminal, about 2 km south of the city centre
Including Free pick-up!
Their sleeper bus leaving at 20:00 provides a free pick-up service from your hotel. They are well-reviewed but not suited for tall travellers as their beds are short.
Vientiane to Luang Prabang by Flight
Lao Skyway and Lao Airlines are the main airlines operating the Vientiane to Luang Prabang route.
One-way tickets cost between $57-$112, and it takes a little less than an hour to reach Luang Prabang.
Lao Skyway offers the cheapest tickets from Vientiane to Luang Prabang. They operate daily flights departing Vientiane at 9:30 and 12:00.
Click the button below to check schedules and book your flight online.
Our favourite places to stay in Luang Prabang
Oudomphong Guesthouse - Budget Friendly
Located just 600 meters from the amazing Night Market, this guesthouse is in the perfect spot. On-site you will find an ATM, guest terrace, shared lounge, and tour desk. Within walking distance are countless sights, restaurants, bars, and amenities. All rooms are fitted with a flat-screen TV, air-conditioning and a desk. The rooms are spacious and the beds are comfortable. A delicious breakfast is included with your stay.
- Great location
- Walking distance to many sights
- Breakfast included
- Clean and comfortable rooms
Private rooms start at $20 per night
Manichan Guesthouse - Budget Friendly
The Manichan Guesthouse is the perfect location, just a 5-minute walk from the Night Market, National Museum and plenty of other sights. The rooms are spacious, comfortable and clean and come with your choice of fan or air conditioning. A delicious breakfast is included daily with your stay and there is a restaurant on location for your convenience.
- Ideal location
- Walking distance to many sights
- Breakfast included
- Restaurant on-site
Private rooms start at $25 per night
Villa Boua Thong Hotel - Mid Range
Enjoy the luxury of this hotel, centrally located in Luang Prabang. This hotel provides a bar, shared lounge, garden area, and room service. You have a choice of a la carte or continental breakfasty with your stay. There is a currency exchange on location for your convenience and a shared kitchen for the guests to utilize. Within walking distance to many sights.
- Great location
- Bar and lounge on-site
- Breakfast included
- Walking distance to sights
Private rooms start at $36 per night
Routes from Luang Prabang
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.
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.
