Bangkok to Vientiane

1.5-12 hours

800-5,000 THB

2 options

Combo

Last verified: April 2026

Getting from Bangkok to Laos' capital Vientiane. Fly direct (1.5 hours), take the overnight train to Nong Khai then cross the Friendship Bridge, or take a direct bus.

Our recommendation

Fly for speed (1.5 hours). The overnight train to Nong Khai + border crossing is a great budget adventure. Now the Laos-China Railway also connects Vientiane.

Transport options

Direct Flight

Best Option

1.5 hours

2,000-5,000 THB

3-5 daily

flight

Fast
Visa on arrival at airport
Multiple airlines

More expensive
Wattay Airport is small

How to do it

1Fly from Bangkok (BKK/DMK) to Vientiane Wattay Airport (1.5 hrs)
2Laos visa on arrival at airport
3Taxi to city center (15 min, $5-7)

Overnight Train to Nong Khai + Border

Adventure Pick

11-12 hours

800-1,500 THB

Nightly

combo

Classic overland route
Affordable
See the Thai countryside
Overnight saves a hotel

Long journey
Border crossing process

How to do it

1Board overnight sleeper train from Hua Lamphong to Nong Khai (10-11 hrs)
2Cross the Friendship Bridge to Laos (tuk-tuk + border formalities)
3Get Laos visa on arrival at the bridge
4Arrive in Vientiane (30 min from bridge)

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Tips for This Route

•Laos visa on arrival available at the airport and Friendship Bridge ($30-42 USD depending on nationality)
•The overnight train to Nong Khai is scenic and comfortable
•From Nong Khai, it's a short ride across the Friendship Bridge to Vientiane
•Direct buses take 10-12 hours via Nong Khai

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Laos?

Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival at the airport or Friendship Bridge. Cost is $30-42 USD depending on nationality. Bring passport photos and USD cash.

What about the Laos-China Railway?

The new high-speed railway connects Vientiane to Luang Prabang (2 hours) and continues to Kunming, China. A game-changer for Laos travel.

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