Vang Vieng to Vientiane is the final leg of the classic Laos backpacker trail — from the karst valleys of central Laos back to the capital. The Laos–China high-speed train has made this journey remarkably quick: just 50 minutes by train compared to 3–4 hours by bus. It\\\’s cheap and reliable, making the bus increasingly redundant.
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Option 1: High-Speed Train (Recommended)
The Laos–China Railway connects Vang Vieng to Vientiane (Khamhom Station) in around 50 minutes. Multiple daily departures make it easy to fit around your schedule. Book in advance online — the train fills up, especially on weekends and during peak season.
- Journey time: ~50 minutes
- Price: ~60,000–100,000 LAK ($3–5 USD)
- Departures: Multiple daily
- Station: Vang Vieng Station — tuk-tuk to/from town (~10 min)
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Option 2: Bus / Minivan
Buses and minivans from Vang Vieng\\\’s bus station run to Vientiane\\\’s Southern Bus Terminal in 3–4 hours. This was the standard route before the train — it\\\’s still available and suits travellers who enjoy the road scenery along Route 13.
- Journey time: 3–4 hours
- Price: ~60,000–100,000 LAK ($3–5 USD)
- Drop-off: Vientiane Southern Bus Terminal (Talat Sao)
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Journey Summary
| Method | Time | Cost from | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| High-speed train | ~50 minutes | $3 USD | Most travellers |
| Bus / minivan | 3–4 hours | $3 USD | Flexible / scenic |
Where to Stay in Vientiane
Vientiane is one of Southeast Asia\\\’s most relaxed capitals — small, walkable, and low-key. The Mekong riverside area (Fa Ngum Road) and the Nam Phu fountain area are the main tourist zones with guesthouses and restaurants. Don\\\’t expect the buzz of Bangkok or Hanoi — Vientiane\\\’s charm is its quiet pace.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the train from Vang Vieng to Vientiane?
Around 50 minutes on the Laos–China high-speed railway — one of the shortest and cheapest train journeys in Southeast Asia.
How far is Vientiane train station from the city centre?
Vientiane Khamhom Station is about 15km north of the city centre. Tuk-tuks and taxis meet trains — allow 30–40 minutes and around 50,000–80,000 LAK for the transfer into town.
Related Guides
- Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng: Train Guide
- Vientiane to Luang Prabang: Train Guide
- Vientiane to 4000 Islands: Bus Guide
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