How to Get to Laos from Vietnam Easily: Fastest, Cheapest & Most Unique Ways

There are 4 main ways from Vietnam to Laos. You can choose fast and convenient flights between major cities, affordable and scenic buses or minivans, or unique slow boat trips through northern river routes.

Flights are the most recommended option for saving time and comfort, buses and boats provide unforgettable experiences for those who want to soak up local culture and see stunning landscapes along the way.

In the article, we’ll guide you through all the best options from Vietnam to Laos—the fastest, the cheapest, and the most unique ways to cross the border. You’ll also find travel times, prices, and expert tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free. Keep reading to find the route that suits you best.

Where Is Laos from Vietnam? Distance & Map Overview

Laos is a smaller, landlocked neighbor that lies to the west of Vietnam. They share a border that stretches more than 2,100 kilometers, from Dien Bien Phu in the north to Kon Tum and Attapeu in the south. With several international crossings along the way, this route is a great option for travelers planning a Vietnam Laos tour by land.

Key cities like Hanoi, Vinh, and Hue are within reach of the Laos border points.

Key Vietnam–Laos Border Crossings:

The location maps of Hanoi, Vietnam and Laos in Southeast Asia.

Vietnam to Laos Flights: Fastest & Most Comfortable

For travelers short on time, flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to get from Vietnam to Laos. Several routes connect major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Vientiane or Luang Prabang, two of Laos’ most popular destinations. These direct flights are especially helpful when you're following a tight Vietnam Laos tour itinerary and want to save travel time

Frequent flights between major cities in Laos and Vietnam are operated by Vietnam Airlines, Lao Airlines, and Bamboo Airways. Flight prices are usually very reasonable, but it’s still best to book in advance. Tickets for popular routes can sell out quickly, particularly during peak travel seasons.

9 Days Southern Vietnam and Laos Relaxing Tour

Luang Prabang – Saigon – My Tho – Can Tho – Phu Quoc

Vietnam to Laos Train (Combined with Bus): Scenic but Slow

There’s no direct train from Vietnam to Laos, but that doesn’t mean rail lovers are out of options. You can combine a train ride through Vietnam with a bus to cross the border into Laos.

From Hanoi to Laos, you can start by taking a train to Vinh or Dong Hoi. The train to Vinh takes 6-8 hours and takes you to the Laos border crossing at Cau Treo–Nam Phao. From there, buses are available to Vientiane, a route that takes 10-12 hours.

The train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi takes around 10 hours. After crossing the Lao Bao–Dansavan border point, you can then take a bus to Savannakhet. The bus trip is around 5.5-6 hours.

It is not the fastest or most convenient route, but ideal for immersive scenic trips for travelers with enough time. Traveling by train and bus requires multiple bookings, and it can be challenging to find tickets where timetables are aligned, but there are some advantages.

Taking the train and bus is perfect for photographers who want to capture scenic rural images, and travelers who want an authentic Southeast Asia tour experience.

Tourists can ride on trains in Vietnam to enjoy beautiful scenery.

Vietnam to Laos Bus or Minivan: Cheapest and Popular with Backpackers

Traveling by bus or minivan is the cheapest way to travel, and is popular with backpackers. These services operate daily from many Vietnamese cities to key Lao destinations. Reliable transport operators provide comfortable and safe vehicles that let you enjoy the countryside scenery along the travel routes.

The most popular routes have frequent departures. VIP buses and minivans are one of the best choices. They have more spacious interiors, air conditioning, and reclining seats for extra comfort on overnight trips. Even with the extra cost, it is still a less expensive way to travel than by flight.

Be prepared for long travel times, though. Buses sometimes have to travel through winding, mountainous regions with occasional rough roads. Bus companies usually help with border crossings, but you will need to have your documents and visa fee prepared.

Despite the inconvenience, travel by bus is an up-close experience of the culture. You’ll have more opportunities to interact with local people and see sights in Vietnam and Laos that you would miss from the air. Make sure to choose a reliable travel operator, like us, and don’t get in any vehicle that looks unsafe.

The bus from Vietnam to Laos is budget friendly for backpackers.

Vietnam to Laos by Boat (Northern Laos Only): Unique but Remote

For those seeking a truly off-the-grid journey, traveling by boat into Laos from northern Vietnam is a rare but memorable experience. The journey starts from Dien Bien Phu, or you can take a bus or van to Muang Khua if you’re in Laos. From there, board a boat on the Nam Ou River to Nong Khiaw or Luang Prabang. This journey takes you through untouched landscapes, rural river towns, and lush jungle scenery. It’s quiet, slow, and rich with local culture.

It’s a very peaceful and scenic journey with many chances for unique photographs. The journey is great for adventurers and nature lovers and combines road and river travel with the experience of small-town Laos.

The choice of routes is limited, however. Boat travel is only available in northern Laos. You’ll need to be flexible to make the logistics work, and be aware that travel on the water is highly seasonal. November to April is the best time to visit Vietnam and Laos, while the best months to take the boat from Vietnam to Laos is from August to December when water levels are high.

Travelers can take cruise over Mekong River from Vietnam to Laos.

Conclusion

Crossing from Vietnam to Laos isn’t just a matter of transportation; the route you take can be part of the adventure. Whether you're flying over mountains, riding a bus through winding roads, or floating down a quiet river, the Vietnam and Laos tour offers a deep look into the landscapes and rhythms of Southeast Asia.

If you’re short on time or want the quickest way between destinations, flights are the easiest option. But if you’re craving a more authentic experience, buses, trains, and boats let you soak up local culture and take in breathtaking views along the way.

Ready to create your perfect Vietnam Laos tour itinerary? Contact us today and let our local experts customize your trip to match your pace, interests, and budget. We’re here to help you explore Southeast Asia smoothly and stress-free!