Vietnam is busy, varied and energetic; Laos is quiet, green and slow. Together they make a balanced trip, and the connection between them is simple. These are the questions we answer most often when guests add Laos.
Getting between the two
| Route | How | Our view |
|---|---|---|
| Hanoi ↔ Luang Prabang | Direct flight | Our first choice |
| Hanoi ↔ Vientiane | Direct flight | Good if your Laos route starts or ends in the capital |
| Ho Chi Minh City ↔ Laos | Usually via another city | Possible, but plan for a connection |
| Overland borders | Long road journeys through mountains | Only for travellers who enjoy long drives |
Check the current Laos visa rules for your nationality before you book; many travellers can obtain a visa online or on arrival at the main airports, but rules change.
How many days for Laos?
- Four nights: Luang Prabang with Kuang Si waterfall, the Pak Ou caves and the alms giving.
- A week: add Vang Vieng and Vientiane by train, or go deeper around Luang Prabang; see Laos in 7 or 8 days.
- Ten days or more: add the north, such as Nong Khiaw, or the south and the 4,000 Islands; see our Laos itinerary guide.
Which order works best?
Laos at the end is our favourite: after the energy of Vietnam, Luang Prabang’s calm is the perfect way to unwind before flying home. Laos at the start works if your international flight arrives in Bangkok or another regional hub. Laos in the middle, flying Hanoi–Luang Prabang–Hanoi, adds a flight but suits travellers whose Vietnam route begins and ends in the north.
Plan your Vietnam trip in 1 minute
Pick your month to see the weather by region, or estimate your budget — then get a private itinerary from our Hanoi team.
Typical seasonal patterns; weather varies year to year. Our team checks your exact dates when we prepare your itinerary.
"From" prices published on our Vietnam tour cost guide: per person per day, 2 travellers sharing, private guide & driver, hotels, listed activities. International flights, e-visa, insurance and tips not included. Final price is confirmed in your written quote.
Sample combinations
| Trip length | Vietnam | Laos |
|---|---|---|
| 2 weeks | Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City | 4 nights in Luang Prabang |
| 3 weeks | Hanoi, Ninh Binh, Halong Bay, Hue, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta | A week: Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Vientiane |
| With Cambodia too | As above | Luang Prabang, then fly to Siem Reap |
Our Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos itineraries show how three countries fit in 14 to 20 days.
Seasons
The cool, dry months from November to February suit both countries, although northern Vietnam is chilly in winter. March to May is hot and often hazy in northern Laos. In the rainy season Laos is lush and quiet; some rural roads become difficult. See the month-by-month weather table.
Practical tips
- Keep some US dollars or local currency for small purchases in Laos; cards are accepted mainly in hotels and larger restaurants.
- Regional flights can have lower baggage allowances.
- Book the Luang Prabang–Vientiane train early in peak season.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get from Vietnam to Laos?
The easiest way is a direct flight from Hanoi to Luang Prabang or Vientiane. Overland borders exist but involve long road journeys.
How many days should I add for Laos?
At least four nights for Luang Prabang, or a week to add Vang Vieng and Vientiane.
Should I visit Laos before or after Vietnam?
After Vietnam is our favourite, for a calm finish. Before or in the middle can work depending on your flights.
Do I need a visa for Laos?
Most travellers need a visa. Many can obtain one online or on arrival at the main airports, but check the current rules for your nationality.
When is the best time to combine Laos and Vietnam?
November to February suits both countries, though northern Vietnam is cool in winter.
Plan this trip
- Ultimate Classic Laos Tour (5 days, from US$700 per person)
- Laos Family Tour in 12 Days: Farms, Caves, Lakes and Luang Prabang (12 days, from US$1,780 per person)
See private Laos tours for itineraries and prices, from US$140 per person per day for two travellers.
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