Wattay International Airport (VTE), otherwise known as Vientiane Airport, is located just over 8 km from the city center. Although the travel time varies depending on the traffic conditions, it usually takes around 20 minutes to travel from Vientiane Airport to the city. There are three ways of getting from Vientiane Airport to the city center: airport taxi, private transfer, and bus.
The fastest way to travel is to opt for a Vientiane Airport taxi or Vientiane Airport transfer. With either of these options, you’ll be assured of door-to-door service and privacy. If you’d prefer a more budget-friendly alternative, the 44 Bus Line is a great choice and takes around 30 minutes to reach the Central Bus Station.
3 options from Vientiane Airport to the city
PRICE FOR 
OPTION | PRICE | TIME | AVAILABILITY | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Welcome Pickups Private Transfer | €19 | 20min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| Private transfers are ideal for large groups, families, and business travelers. | ||||||
Taxi | €14.80 | 20min | 24/7 | Convenience | Book | |
| Vientiane taxis are best for those who want a smooth departure from the airport who haven't booked a ride ahead of time. | ||||||
Bus | €3.50 | 30min | 08:10–20:30 | Convenience | Read more | |
| The bus is good for those who on a tight budget who have a lot of time to spare. | ||||||
One of the most convenient and quickest ways to get from Vientiane Airport to the city is to take a Vientiane Airport taxi. In most cases, taxis are yellow to blue in color, but this depends on the specific operator.
Taxis are available 24/7, and there’s a taxi counter in the Arrivals Hall where you can arrange your ride.
Cost of a taxi from Vientiane Airport to the city
When traveling from Vientiane Airport to the city, taxi fares are usually fixed and depend on the distance to your specific destination. On average, the price will come to around €14.80 (LAK 340,049). When you’re organizing your cab at the taxi counter or with a driver, they’ll typically offer you a fare based on your desired drop-off point.
Where do I get a taxi from?
There’s a taxi rank located outside of the Arrivals Hall, but you also have the option of arranging your cab at the taxi stand inside the terminal building. If you choose to go to this desk, you’ll be given a coupon and guided to an available driver.
Convenience
Taking a taxi from Vientiane Airport to the city center is an ideal choice. Your driver will offer you a fixed fare before setting off, taxis operate round the clock, and you’ll arrive at your desired destination directly from the airport. However, taxis may be in short supply during the low season, meaning long waiting periods can be an issue from time to time.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreGetting from Vientiane Airport to the city by bus is an excellent way to save some cash if you’re traveling on a budget. It takes around 30 minutes for Bus Line 44 to reach the Central Bus Station, and it stops at various points in the city before terminating there.
How much does it cost to get from Vientiane airport to the city by bus?
The cost of getting a bus from Vientiane Airport to the city center is approximately €1.75 (LAK 40,000) per person, and this price is about €0.90 (LAK 20,000) for a child. This fare can only be paid in cash, and you can purchase your ticket from the bus stand inside the Arrivals Hall.
The Vientiane Airport shuttle runs from 08:10 to 20:30.
Where do I get the bus from?
The bus stop is situated right outside the terminal building, as signaled by the silver-colored stand displaying the timetable.
Convenience
Although the bus is an economical way to get from Vientiane Airport to the city center, it’s not the most convenient option if you’re short on time. There can be extensive gaps of more than two hours between departures, meaning you might face a lengthy wait depending on when you arrive. If you arrive late at night or early in the morning, taking the bus won’t be a viable option.
Timetables
Bus Line 44 Timetable
Vientiane Airport to Central Bus Station
Useful Tips
The best way to get from Vientiane Airport to the city center is to take a private transfer. That way, you’ll avoid any potential queuing for a standard taxi while enjoying a range of fantastic extras.
At Welcome Pickups, we’re committed to offering five-star service and offering each of our customers:
Everything will be organized ahead of time, allowing you to travel stress-free on the day you arrive. Not only that, butyour driver will be on hand to provide local recommendations and a mini tour of the city on the way to your hotel.
How much is a private transfer from Vientiane Airport to the city?
One of the most convenient aspects of our Vientiane Airport transfers is that the payment process can be taken care of at the time of booking. As such, you won’t need to worry about carrying cash or worrying about uncertain fares.
With us, a private transfer from Vientiane Airport to the city will set you back €19 (LAK 436,549) for up to three passengers. For larger groups of between four and 12 travelers, this increases to €39 (LAK 896,074).
To get a quote, all you need to do is visit our website or app and provide some key details about your transfer needs. The quote you’ll receive is fixed and won’t be subject to change. After paying securely online, you’ll have nothing left to do on the day but kick back and enjoy a smooth ride to your hotel.
Private transfers are available 24/7 from Wattay International Airport.
Where do I get a private transfer from?
As part of our transfer services at Welcome Pickups, your English-speaking driver will be waiting for you in the Arrivals Hall, holding a sign with your name on it. After a warm welcome, you’ll be guided to your pre-selected vehicle as your driver assists you with your bags.
Convenience
Choosing a private transfer from Vientiane Airport to the city is the best way to ensure you have a seamless, hassle-free ride to your hotel or destination. You won’t have to deal with queues, uncertain fares, and potential language barriers. Our trained, English-speaking drivers and modern vehicles will get you where you need to be for a fixed, competitive price directly from the Arrivals area.
Useful Tips
Frequently asked questions
How much is a taxi from Vientiane Airport to city center?
The taxi fare from Vientiane airport to the city center generally comes to around €14.80 (LAK 340,049). However, this price can vary considerably.
How do I get from Vientiane Airport to city center?
You’ll have three options available when getting from Vientiane Airport to the city: taxi, bus, or private transfer. Taking a taxi or private transfer is your best bet if you’re looking for comfort and door-to-door services, though the bus is a more cost-effective alternative. At present, it’s not possible to get from Vientiane Airport to the city by train.
What is the easiest way to get to Vientiane City?
The easiest and best way to get from Vientiane Airport to the city center is by taking a private transfer. You’ll be dropped off directly outside your hotel and can enjoy a private, comfortable ride.
Adam Ryan
Adam is a travel writer with a soft spot for strange borders, street foods he can’t pronounce, and sleeper trains. He’s aiming to visit every country in the world, but somehow keeps ending up back in Southeast Asia.
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