Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

Luang Prabang
Vang Vieng
Wed, May 13
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Destination Reviews

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
OJ
Olivier J
The booking was set, paid and accepted for the 4h41pm and has not been honored. We have had to postpone to the 18h45 train with impact on a connecting transfer. You should not propose and further more accept the paiement for trip that you cannot honored. Having said that the customer service to manage this unexpected cancellation was vey kind and responsive
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Mar 11, 2026
AL
Autumn L
Great train comfortable and clean. One problem was for us being a family with young children the last minute confirmation was difficult for us. The email says 18hrs after payment not more than 48hrs before the travel date. For us it was confirmed 15hrs before the train departed and i had to email twice for help. Something to consider if you are a family and want to plan ahead.
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class Seat, Laos Railway by Family Service, Mar 3, 2026
MF
Marius F
Received the train tickets for the correct date, time and class a few days in advance
Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng, Train Second Class, Laos Group Tour, Feb 25, 2026
4.4
575 customer reviews
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53%
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19%
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Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng Schedule

TypeOperatorClassDeparture TimeArrival TimePriceRating
Taxi
RG Adventure
SUV 4pax
Any time
+4h
$149.05
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
$15.84
  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
$14.52
  4.6
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
12:50
13:42
$14.52
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Second Class Seat
13:30
15:49
$17.16
  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
$16.00
  4.5
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Hard Seat
15:30
18:52
$12.27
Train
Laos Railway by RG Adventure
Hard Seat
16:37
17:52
$11.88
  3.9
Train
Laos Railway by Naluang
Second Class Reserved Seats
17:00
19:59
$14.81
  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

Travelling between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng is possible by Bus, train, van and taxi. Train guarantees the fastest travel on this route. Taxi is the slowest option.

The most expensive ticket will cost you USD 36.02 if you go by taxi+Van; to keep it budget-friendly, opt for a train which will set you back mere USD 11.68.

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

It can take you anywhere between 1 and 6 hours to travel between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng depending on the means of transport you choose.

Train is the fastest way to travel between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng. Train will bring you to your destination in 49m. Taxi does a much slower job and take about 6h to reach Vang Vieng.

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

Travelling between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng can be as cheap as USD 11.68 if you opt for a Laos China Railways (Guangdong Piaoduoduo) train and as expensive as USD 36.02 if you buy a RG Adventure taxi+Van ticket.

Here is the list of how much you can expect to pay travelling by each means of transport available for this route.

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

  • 24 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 12:28 Luang Prabang Railway Station until 19:07 Luang Prabang Railway Station
  • 12 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:00 LP Holiday Travel Office until 18:30 Luang Prabang Southern Stop
  • 9 by taxi+Train from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 10:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 17:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • 3 by taxi+Van from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 07:30 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer
  • 5 from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng starting from 00:00 Luang Prabang Transfer until 14:00 Luang Prabang Transfer

Check above for a bus, train, flight and ferry timetable from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng.

What mode of transportation is the best one for my route?

Taxi

Some travellers consider taxi to be the most convenient form of overland transport thanks to flexible departure times, a possibility to choose the size of the car you need, and a hassle-free door-to-door service.

Things to remember: If you are planning to make detours during your trip, discuss it with your driver or service provider in advance as it may affect the price.

Companies offering charters between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng

Book Best Travel and Services, Laos Railway by RG Adventure (RG Adventure), RG Adventure

Train

Train is a often a great choice for long-haul travel especially if you opt for a night sleeper train with berths which will allow you to sleep all your journey through. To make the most of your train journey, choose the class of your ticket wisely.

Note that there are air-conditioned and fan-only carriages; private compartments for 2 or 4; hard and soft seats.
Though the upper class you get the smoother is your journey, often second class air-conditioned or fan-only sleepers are a good money saving alternative.

Van

Vans are a great alternative - or, in many cases - your only option - if you need to travel overland within one and the same province or neighbouring provinces or states. Vans ply the roads between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, too.

Things to remember: When travelling by van with huge luggage buying a separate seat for your suitcase or backpack is a good idea. Do not expect there is a roomy luggage compartment in a van - there is actually none and your fellow passengers are unlikely to appreciate your luggage stuck under their feet, alas.

Companies operating vans between Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng

Book Best Travel and Services, Luang Prabang Holiday Travel, Vieng Chaleune (เวียงเจริญ)

What is the most popular transport to get from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng?

There is a choice of transportation means any time of the day with Train remaining the most popular option due to their reasonable pricing and comfort.

Out of 1000 travellers who bought tickets for this route

  • 48% took a train
  • 31% bought a taxi ride
  • 9% chosen Bus+taxi
  • 5% chosen taxi+Train
  • 4% took 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$12
Fastest Transport49m
Earliest Departure12:00 AM
Latest Departure7:22 PM
Departures per day53
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