Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng
Fri, May 22
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Destination Reviews

M
Magnus
Everything went smooth. Very professional staff.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train #C91 Second Class Seat, China Railway (中国铁路), May 17, 2026
JS
Jerrie S
It wasn’t clear that certain products, like deodorant and sunscreen bottles, were not allowed. These were taken away during check-in, and the staff handled the situation in a rather unfriendly manner.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train #K11 Hard Seat, China Railway (中国铁路), May 17, 2026
P
Pkitsz
On time and Quick ride!
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class, Laos Group Tour, May 16, 2026
MC
Michael C
A very clean train station and efficient service.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Apr 27, 2026
MH
Michele H
Great train terrible first class seats no window paid $75.00 aud first and only time visiting Lao looking forward to sitting on train and looking out the window ….NO VIEW total waste of money want my money back
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train First Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Apr 24, 2026
KB
Kevin B
The train was great, very comfortable seats fast journey, everything on time. The problem was at the station. Luang Prabang station is a starting point for several international trains. As a result, it has something approaching airport style security, very lax in some ways but can be quite pedantic if you are stopped for a check. I was, and they confiscated an aerosol deodorant I’d been using (I thought it pretty, but wasn’t overly bothered). But they also confiscated a small Swiss Army knife that has travelled with me halfway around the world, via several airports, many other buses and trains and 3 border crossings without issue. Someone in Laos is going to get a very nice present at my expense. I wouldn’t mind, but unlike an airport, they do not separate domestic from international travellers. I was not leaving the country. The penknife was in the baggage that would have gone in the hold had I been travelling by air. As I was leaving the check area, I heard the lady next to me complaining that they were taking the table knife she’s been using to eat her food with. It’s all so petty and pointless.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train #C97 First Class Seat, China Railway (中国铁路), Apr 19, 2026
PP
Peter P
Even during Pi Mai we got our tickets in time.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Apr 16, 2026
AM
Anne M
Buzzy train and really sharp control without going across border
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Apr 5, 2026
MP
Maria P
They send you a QR code but it doesn't work, you have to go to the ticket counter and get a physical ticket
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Mar 31, 2026
IF
Ian F
No AC at all I was dying. Thank god it was only a two hour drive for me I woulda been beat otherwise
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Mar 15, 2026
4.4
578 customer reviews
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
RG Adventure
SUV 4pax
Any time
+4h
$147.56
Van
Laos Luxury Travel
Minivan
06:30
12:30
$15.00
Van
Luang Prabang Holiday Travel
Minivan
07:00
12:00
$15.45
  2.5
Van
Vieng Chaleune
Regional 14pax
07:30
13:30
$15.00
  3.1
Van
Vieng Chaleune
Regional 14pax
08:00
14:00
$15.00
  3.1
Van
Naluang
Regional 14pax
08:30
14:30
$15.68
  3.3
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
09:30
11:30
$17.50
Van
Luang Prabang Travel
Tuk Tuk + Van
10:00
15:00
$15.00
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
10:30
11:30
$14.50
  4.5
Van
Vieng Chaleune
Regional 14pax
11:00
17:00
$15.00
  3.1
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
11:22
13:22
$17.50
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
11:50
13:50
$17.50
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:22
13:28
$14.37
  4.6
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:50
13:42
$14.37
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
13:30
15:49
$16.98
  4.8
Train
Laos Group Tour
Second Class
13:58
15:58
$17.50
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
14:49
15:40
$15.83
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Hard Seat
15:30
18:52
$12.14
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Hard Seat
16:37
17:52
$11.76
  3.9
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Second Class Reserved Seats
17:00
19:59
$14.66
  4.3

Is Vang Vieng safe to visit?

Vang Vieng is generally considered safe for travelers, but it is important to take standard precautions. Petty theft can occur, so keep your belongings secure, especially in crowded areas. For transportation, tuk-tuks and rental scooters are popular, but ensure you wear helmets and drive cautiously. The local roads can be challenging, especially during the rainy season.

When engaging in outdoor activities like tubing or hiking, follow safety guidelines and use reputable tour operators. The Nam Song River is popular for tubing; however, it is crucial to be cautious of water levels and currents, especially during the rainy season.

Tap water in Vang Vieng is not recommended for drinking. Use bottled water, which is widely available, or ensure you have a reliable filtration method.

Overall, staying informed and cautious will contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit to Vang Vieng.

Can you walk around Vang Vieng with a drink?

Walking around Vang Vieng with a drink in hand is generally acceptable, particularly in the tourist areas where nightlife is prominent. However, it is important to be respectful of local customs and avoid disruptive behavior. Public drinking is more tolerated in designated areas like bars and night markets, but exercise discretion in less tourist-centric zones. Bars often offer drinks in plastic cups for easy carry.

Keep in mind that local authorities periodically enforce stricter regulations, so staying informed about current rules is advisable. Always dispose of waste responsibly to help maintain the area's natural beauty.

Is it possible to rent a car in Vang Vieng?

Car rentals are available in Vang Vieng, with several local agencies offering vehicles for hire. Prices typically range from 300,000 to 500,000 LAK per day ($15 to $30). It is advisable to book in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Most rental agencies require a valid international driving permit along with your home country driver's license.

Additionally, be aware that roads can be challenging, with some unpaved or poorly maintained, so ensure you are comfortable with local driving conditions. For those looking for alternatives, scooters and bicycles are also popular options for exploring the area.

How to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

When you want to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, you have a few options to consider. Traveling between these destinations is possible by different means of transport:

  • Bus
  • Train
  • Van
  • Taxi

If you’re looking for a quick trip, it’s recommended that you use Train. However, if you’d rather take your time with a slower, more affordable travel option, you can book a Taxi ticket.

The cost of travel will depend on the means of transport you choose for your trip. A taxi+Van ticket is the most expensive option - it will cost you about USD 35.62. If you want to save on transportation, it’s better to take a train as a train ticket costs as low as USD 13.56.

How far is Luang Prabang from Vang Vieng?

If you’re traveling by land, it’s important to know the distance from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. Your trip will be a total of 26 miles (41 km). The flying distance is 26 miles (41 km).

How long does it take to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

The travel time from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng can vary depending on the mode of transportation you choose. All things considered, the whole journey should take from 1 to 6 hours.

How much does it cost to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

The cost of the trip from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng varies according to what means of transport you choose for your journey. The most affordable operator is Laos China Railways (Guangdong Piaoduoduo): travelling by train expect to pay as low as USD 13.56 for your ticket.

However, if you’re after more upscale travel . The most expensive variant is to opt for a taxi+Van - a one-way taxi+Van ticket can cost as much as USD 35.62.

Here is a chart of the average ticket prices and transportation options available from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng:

  • Train tickets - USD 13.56 to USD 35.58;
  • taxi+Train price: USD 17.53 - USD 31.61. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 08:00 Luang Prabang Transfer until 19:07 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • Van price : USD 20.02 - USD 29.41;
  • Bus+Van price: USD 25.36. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 12:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station until 19:22 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • taxi+Van price: USD 35.62. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • Bus+taxi price: USD 196.79 - USD 207.43. From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 00:00 Luang Prabang Airport until 00:00 Luang Prabang Airport

You can order a taxi, too - an estimated cost of the ride is from USD 26.49 to USD 32.17.

How many trips per day are there between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng?

Depending on your choice of transportation, the number of daily trips varies.

  • Trains always run on a set schedule - there are 31 trains per day.
  • 20 by taxi+Train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 08:00 Luang Prabang Transfer until 19:07 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • Vans from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng depart during the day - there are approximately 12 departures a day.
  • 3 by taxi+Van from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • Taxis are a good option to consider for this route, too. Book a cab to take you from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng any time of the day.

Which means of transport is the best for the route?

Taxi

Catching a cab is the easiest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. It allows you to tailor-make your trip, plan all the detours and see all the places you want. You can choose the type and the size of your car as well to be as comfortable as you'd like to.

Depending on the route, it might cost as much as USD 26.49.

Things to remember: It's a good idea to follow the route on Google Maps or any other GPS navigator.

Trains

Things to remember while choosing a train ticket:
Consider everything carefully while choosing the class of your train travel. In most cases, the second class is comfortable enough – it features 2 or 4 berths in each compartment and is often air-conditioned.

If you’re in for a premium experience, consider getting a first class ticket. The price of first class tickets may include Wifi, and a choice of snacks and drinks.

Vans

A shared van is another means of transport for traveling from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng. As far as travel time is concerned, it’s basically equal to a taxi ride, while price-wise it’s way more affordable. The majority of tourists book a van online in advance.

Sometimes, when trains or buses aren’t available, a van is your only way to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

Things to remember: while traveling by van, you might not have as much space for luggage as you would on a train or a plane. It’s a good idea to pack only the most useful things for a van trip and put them in a backpack that will be easy to carry around..

The most popular transport from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

How to choose the most convenient way of travel from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng? In order to make your choice of transportation easier, we asked 1000 users to range their preferences for this route. Here are the results of the poll:

  • 37% users enjoyed a train ride.
  • 26% chosen taxi+Train
  • 24% decided to catch a taxi.
  • 7% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 3% opted for a van.
  • 2% chosen taxi+Van
  • 1% Other

Transportation from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Facts about the transport from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Cheapest Transport$14
Fastest Transport49m
Earliest Departure12:00 AM
Latest Departure7:22 PM
Departures per day71
Distance41 kilometers
Transport CompaniesBook Best Travel and Services, LaoLuang Travel, Laos China Railways, Laos Railway by Family Service, Laos Railway by Naluang, Laos Railway by RG Adventure, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, RG Adventure, Vieng Chaleune