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Vientiane Travel Guide

Last Updated: September 2, 2023

sleeping buddha in Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital of Laos , is home to around 1 million people. The name of the city is French and derived from “Viangchan” (“walled city of sandalwood”). The city was the economic hub under French rule, which started in 1893 and lasted until 1953.

Nowadays, the capital is a hub for café culture, cheap spas, golden temples, and diverse riverside markets. Much of the city’s historical center has kept its colorful colonial architecture intact too, making it a nice area to stroll around as you explore.

A common stopover spot between Vietnam and Thailand , there’s a busy nightlife scene and some good day trips beyond the city limits, including the popular Buddha Park with its more than 200 giant Buddha statues.

Wander the wide boulevards, take in the crumbling mansions, chill out in Chao Anouvong Park, and enjoy the flavorful local cuisine (there are a ton of delicious French bakeries here as well).

There’s enough here to keep you busy for a couple of days, though you likely won’t need more than 3 days here.

This Vientiane travel guide can help you plan your visit, save money, and help you make the most of your trip.

Table of Contents

  • Things to See and Do
  • Typical Costs
  • Suggested Budget
  • Money-Saving Tips
  • Where to Stay
  • How to Get Around
  • How to Stay Safe
  • Best Places to Book Your Trip
  • Related Blogs on Vientiane

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Vientiane

Dozens of Buddhist and Hindu states at Buddha Park near Vientiane, Laos surrounded by grass and trees

1. Take a cooking class

Street food in Laos is delicious. Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional dishes like laap (salad with minced meat and spices), orh (spicy stew), and mok (steamed fish in banana leaf). Most tours begin with a market tour where you select ingredients for your experience! I recommend a class with Madam Phasouk. She’s an amazing cook and her private classes are 150,000 LAK, which includes cooking 3-4 dishes.

2. Explore Buddha Park

Buddha Park is a sculpture park just 25 kilometers (15 miles) outside of Vientiane. There are around 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues here, all of which appear to be centuries old (they’re not; they were made in the 20th century out of concrete). While not “historic” it’s still worth visiting as there are all kinds of unconventional designs, including a 3-meter-tall (9.8-foot) demon head that you enter through and staircases from heaven and hell that you can climb. Admission is 15,000 LAK per person.

3. Admire the Great Stupa

The Great Stupa (Pha That Luang) is a 44-meter-tall (148-foot) gold-covered stupa and is the most important monument in the country. Built by King Setthathirat in 1566, its exterior looks like a fortress with high walls. Inside, the walls are covered in Buddhist, floral, and animal imagery. It was heavily damaged by invading Thai forces in the 1820s and was eventually restored by the French after they annexed the region. Admission is 10,000 LAK.

4. Chat with a monk

Once a month, monks gather at the Sangha College (Wat Onteu) to chat with tourists. You can ask them all about their practice and daily life, and it gives them a chance to practice their English in turn. It’s a useful way to learn a lot about Lao culture. Ask your hostel/hotel staff for details and dates.

5. See the Victory Gate (Patuxai)

Vientiane’s Victory Gate is also known as the city’s Arc de Triomphe. The monument was built between 1957-1968 to honor the memory of Lao soldiers who died in World War II and the war of independence in 1949 (which was fought against the French). It was intentionally built a little higher than the original in Paris, simply to spite the French. The concrete for the monument was donated by the USA, however, it was supposed to be for a new airport and not this monument. For 3,000 LAK, you can climb up and admire the view of Vientiane.

Other Things to See and Do in Vientiane

1. explore by bike.

Vientiane is easy to explore on a bike and you can also get out of the city to cycle around rural villages, temples, and schoolyards along the Mekong River while taking in the picturesque landscape as you go. Be sure to stop at Tad Moon Waterfall (it’s gorgeous). You can rent bikes for as little as 10,000 LAK per day (though better quality bikes might cost a little more).

2. Visit the COPE Visitor Centre

During the Vietnam War, the American military dropped more than two million tons of explosives on Laos. Even today, many rural citizens still lose their limbs or lives by coming across unexploded bombs. COPE (Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise) was formed to aid with the recovery for these victims by providing prosthetics and other medical services. The COPE Visitor Centre is a jarring experience where visitors can learn more about this ongoing tragedy and the work being done. It’s sobering but educational. Admission is free.

3. Hang out in Chao Anouvong Park

Chao Anouvong Park is right in the heart of Vientiane. There’s lots of green space, and the locals come here to walk, hang out, and play sports. In the evening, there’s a night market doling out food and selling crafts and clothes. Come during the day with a picnic and a book and take in the local pace of life, or bring an appetite and eat your way around the night market.

4. Tour the Lao National Museum

This museum is packed full of Laotian history. There are exhibits on the country’s early history through to the modern era, including exhibits on the country’s struggle for independence. The main exhibit focuses on the Lao Revolution in the 1970s. There are signs in English though many are only in French. Admission is 10,000 LAK. (Currently closed as it is in the process of moving to a new building).

5. See the Presidential Palace

You can’t go inside the Presidential Palace as it’s currently used for the president and other government officials, but you can certainly admire the building from the outside. It’s a stately piece of French Beaux-Arts architecture with iron gates decorated with gold, large balconies, and several Roman-like colonnades along its exterior. (Laos is a one-party Marxism–Leninism communist state so the President isn’t actually the most powerful person in the country — the party leader is).

6. Attend the Lao Boat Racing Festival

If you end up being in Vientiane during October, you’ll be able to check out the Lao Boat Racing Festival (which takes place on the 15th day of the 11th lunar month, usually September/October). A lot of Vientiane’s neighboring villages also participate in the festivities, and it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. Teams of men and women race throughout the festival in dragon boats, while spectators line the riverbanks singing and playing music, and the streets are overtaken with food stalls. Be sure to book early if visiting during this time as the city fills up!

Vientiane Travel Costs

A local Laos street food vendor cooking during a night market in Vientiane, Laos

Hostel prices – Beds in a large hostel dorm (10-20 people) start from 85,000 LAK per night. For a hostel dorm with 6-8 beds, expect to spend around 110,000 LAK. Private rooms cost around 315,000 LAK. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels include free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices – Most two-star budget hotels cost around 300,000 LAK per night. While the amenities are usually basic, some budget hotels have pools or include breakfast. For a more comfortable three-star hotel, expect to pay closer to 500,000 LAK per night.

Airbnb is also available here, with private rooms starting at 150,000 LAK (though they average double that price). For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 300,000 LAK. Again, prices usually average double that so be sure to book early to find the best deals.

Food – Laos eats the most sticky rice per capita in the entire world. Other prominent staples include green papaya salad and laap (also known as larb, it’s a minced-meat salad that is the national dish, usually featuring fermented fish). Grilled meats, such as chicken, pork, and duck are also very popular, as is feu , the local version of pho.

Street food in Vientiane generally costs under 20,000 LAK per dish for grilled meats and bowls of noodle soup. Lane Xang — the city’s main boulevard running from the Presidential Palace towards Pha That Luang — is the best place in the city to find tons of street food.

Meals at restaurants cost around 47,000 LAK for dishes like sticky rice, grilled fish, and salads. There are lots of places along the river where you can eat cheap.

Western food usually costs double the price of local cuisine, so avoid it if you’re on a budget. If you want to splash out for a three-course meal with drinks, expect to pay at least 200,000 LAK.

Beer costs around 17,000 LAK while a latte/cappuccino is around 34,000 LAK. Bottled water is 8,000 LAK.

While groceries here are cheap, street food is even cheaper. And since most hostels don’t have kitchens, eating out is the cheaper option here. If you do want to shop, expect to spend around 250,000-300,000 LAK per week on groceries.

Backpacking Vientiane Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 290,000 LAK per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat street food for your meals, enjoy the occasional drink, rent a bicycle to get around, and do a few cheap activities chatting with the monks and visiting Buddha Park. If you plan on drinking more, add 20,000-30,000 LAK to your daily budget.

With a mid-range budget of 650,000 LAK per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at some restaurants, drink more, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more tours and activities, such as a cooking class.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,825,000 LAK per day or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat at fancy restaurants, drink as much as you want, rent a bike and take taxis, and do whatever tours and activities you want. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in LAK.

Vientiane Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Vientiane isn’t going to break your bank. Laos and its capital are fairly cheap and you’ll be hard-pressed to spend a ton of money here if you’re staying in a hostel and eating street food. If you’re looking to lower your costs though, here are some ways to save money in Vientiane:

  • Stick to local transportation – Stick to public transportation if you need to get around. If you do need to take a tuk-tuk or taxi, ask your hotel/hostel staff what you should expect to pay. This will ensure you don’t get ripped off.
  • Avoid western food – Western food is always more expensive than local dishes, and that difference adds up. Save your budget and eat what the locals eat!
  • Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here isn’t safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with a filter. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Vientiane

Vientiane has a few decent hostels that are clean, social, and cheap. Here are my suggested places to stay:

  • Dream Home Hostel
  • Sailomyen Cafe & Hostel
  • Petit Espace

How to Get Around Vientiane

A busy, wide road full of traffic in Vientiane, the capital of Laos

Public transportation – Vientiane has a public city bus system, but it mostly services the outer suburbs rather than the city center. It doesn’t have AC but it goes to the Friendship Bridge and Buddha Park (6,000 LAK). A three-day bus pass can be bought at the airport for around 45,000 LAK.

Bike rental – A bicycle rental is an excellent way to get around Vientiane. Rentals start around 10,000 LAK per day. If your guesthouse or hostel doesn’t rent bicycles, there are plenty of shops around town. Expect to pay 15,000-30,000 LAK for a better-quality bike.

Tuk-Tuks and Jumbos – Tuk-tuks (and their larger cousins, jumbos) are an easy and affordable way to get around town, with most short trips costing 10,000-20,000 LAK. Tuk-tuks by the river charge double so avoid taking a tuk-tuk from there.

Many tuk-tuks have published rates. However, they are intentionally inflated. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for accurate rates before you head out.

Taxi – If you come across an unmetered taxi, make sure you negotiate before getting in. Try to aim for 8,000 LAK per kilometer. You can hire a private taxi for a full day (within the town) for around 300,000-500,000 LAK.

When to Go to Vientiane

Vientiane has a tropical climate, with average daily temperatures ranging between 24-37°C (75-98°F). November to April is the best time to visit Vientiane. This is when the area’s weather is consistently warm and dry, and if you’re planning on doing lots of sightseeing, you’ll want this kind of weather (December-February are the driest months on average). January-February is the busiest time to visit so expect more people and higher prices.

March-May tends to be the hottest time of year, with temperatures soaring as high as 40°C (104°F). Humidity is high as well. Make sure you wear a hat and have lots of water when you’re out and about.

The rainy season starts around May-June and lasts until the end of October. Although there’s a lot of rain, it usually comes in short bursts, leaving the rest of the day warm and sunny. Coming here during this time means you won’t have to deal with a lot of other travelers. Prices are a little lower too. Dengue fever is a risk during this time, however.

How to Stay Safe in Vientiane

Vientiane is a safe place to backpack and travel. The city has very little violent crime, though petty theft can be a concern. Keep your valuables secure and out of reach at all times just to be safe. Be especially mindful of bag snatchers.

As with elsewhere in Southeast Asia, it’s not uncommon for people to try to rip you off because they assume you have lots of money. Always double-check prices and the change you’re handed back after paying. When in doubt, ask your hotel/hostel staff how much something should cost so you don’t get ripped off.

You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

When people get into trouble here, it’s mostly because they’re tangled up with drugs or the sex industry. Laos is strict about punishment when it comes to these offenses so avoid them at all costs.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that go into more detail.

While malaria can be an issue here, dengue is much more common. Always wear bug spray with DEET when you go out during the rainy season.

There are a fair amount of dogs here — stray and owned — but always be careful around them as they can be more vicious than you’re used to.

If you experience an emergency, dial 191 to contact the police.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Vientiane Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

  • Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
  • Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
  • Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
  • Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
  • Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
  • SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
  • LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
  • Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Vientiane Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Laos travel and continue planning your trip:

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

The Secret Pool of Kuang Si Waterfall

The Secret Pool of Kuang Si Waterfall

The Cost of Traveling Laos

The Cost of Traveling Laos

Vang Vieng: A Hedonistic Backpacker Town Reborn

Vang Vieng: A Hedonistic Backpacker Town Reborn

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  • Booking Resources
  • Related Blogs
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The Perfect Vientiane Itinerary - Things to Do in 24 Hours

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Laos is full of adventurous things to do and filled with ancient buildings and unique cultures. But all of those things do not exist in the capital of Laos. Vientiane is a bustling city filled with busy traffic, modern buildings and paved roads. It’s definitely busier than I ever imagined, especially after traveling in Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang . Both towns are so chill and slow-paced. If you’re using Vientiane as a transit point to the next destination during your Laos backpacking trip , here is a 24-hours Vientiane itinerary to help you plan a day there.

Many travelers asked, “how many days do I need for Vientiane?”. Well, in fact, most people stayed in Vientiane for one day or two days max. There aren’t many things to do there compared to other towns. Due to the fact that a large portion of Laos’ lands deemed unusable because of the ordnance buried below, the government seems to focus all their economy on the capital city.

In Vientiane, you can find transportation to each and every town throughout the country, as well as sleeper buses to Bangkok, Hanoi , and other neighboring countries. Vientiane is often used as the transit point from Luang Prabang or Vang Vieng to Pakse and Si Phan Don in Southern Laos.

Enough talking, let’s dive straight in and see what you can do in 24 hours in this one day Vientiane itinerary!

Vientiane Laos Temple

  • 1 Worship The Pha That Luang (Best of Vientiane itinerary)
  • 2 See The Patuxai Monument
  • 3 Visiting COPE Visitor Centre
  • 4 Watch the Sunset Over Thailand in Chao Anouvong Park
  • 5 Shopping in Vientiane Night Market
  • 6 Alternative – Be Amazed in Wat Si Saket
  • 7 Alternative – Take a Walk in Buddha Park or Xieng Khuan

Worship The Pha That Luang (Best of Vientiane itinerary)

Pha That Luang is probably the most well known Vientiane attraction of all time. The golden stupa stood elegantly under the sunshine, and the reflected golden ray just amazes everyone who passed by. You could say that it’s the landmark of Vientiane.

The stupa is believed to have enshrined a breast bone of Buddha. Pha That Luang was built back in 1566, right after Vientiane was made the capital of Lan Xang Kingdom. During the invasion of the Siamese army in 1827, Pha That Luang, along with most parts of Vientiane city was destroyed. It wasn’t until the 1930’s when the French rebuilt the stupa to its original design.

Do you know that Pha That Luang was submitted to the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites list?

If you’re visiting in November, maybe you’re in luck to see the That Luang Festival, which takes place for three days during the full moon of the twelfth lunar month. You’ll see huge crowds of locals visiting and paying tribute to the stupa, as well as giving alms to the monks.

Since it’s that famous, you should also expect crowds of tourists in the compound. Chinese and Korean tourists have been flooding Vientiane for the past few years. The number of Korean tourists also surprised me because I never expected so many Koreans in this country.

There are accommodations throughout the city, so if you booked your hostel far away, you might need to walk to get there. Tuk-tuks are ridiculously expensive in Vientiane, just for your info.

The entrance fee to Pha That Luang is 10,000 Kip per person, and the stupa is open from 8 am to 4 pm. Note that there will be a lunch break from 12 pm to 1 pm, you can’t visit between this time frame.

Do you need a visa to enter Laos? Check it and apply your Laos visa online here in just 5 minutes!

Vientiane Laos Golden Stupa Pha That Luang Landmark

See The Patuxai Monument

Patuxai Monument is yet another landmark of Vientiane city, which was built between 1957 to 1968. Patuxai, which translates to ‘Victory Gate’ was erected to remember those who fought for independence from the French army. It’s an attraction not to miss in your Vientiane itinerary.

The monument was constructed using the funds from the US, which was meant to be used for the expansion of the airport.

The architecture of the monument was heavily influenced by Buddhism and Hinduism religions. If you look up to the ceiling of the monument, you’ll find various craftings and arts of the Hindu gods, like Brahma and Vishnu.

On top of the monument, you’ll also see 5 towers. Four of them occupying the corners while the tallest tower lies in the middle. You could pay a fee of 5,000 Kip per person to climb to the top for the view of the city.

There is also a sign in the monument stating that the construction was never completed due to the country’s turbulence history.

However, the compound is more than just the monument. If you walk further in, you’ll also find a fountain, built using the funds donated from the Chinese government. There are loads of benches so you can easily just sit down and have a rest.

The entrance to the compound is free but you would have to pay 5,000 Kip to climb the monument.

Patuxai Monument Vientiane Laos Victory Gate

Check out how you can travel from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng all by yourself here !

Visiting COPE Visitor Centre

COPE is an organization with a mission to help people with disability to walk again using prosthetic legs and provide them physical rehab support.

Upon entering the visitor centre, you’ll be amazed by how well the decoration the interior is. There are information boards all around the displayed items, and loads of prosthetic limbs to see.

The main thing about this visitor centre is how well they presented the history of the Secret War. If you didn’t know it yet, the US army dropped more than 2 million tons of ordnance bombs into the land of Laos from 1964 to 1973. This makes Laos the most heavily bombed country per capita in modern history.

The bombing was intended to destroy the Ho Chi Minh trail, which was used to transfer the army and military supplies from Northern Vietnam to Southern Vietnam during the Vietnam War.

Up to a third of the dropped ordnance bombs did not explode, and therefore buried inside the land of Laos. When farmers try to plow the land and accidentally hit the ordnance, or setting fire on top of the buried ordnance, the bomb exploded. These accidents happen frequently for the past few decades and rendered many Laotian people disabled. And that’s where the COPE comes into play.

In this visitor centre, you’ll also learn about how the other partner organizations dispose of these unexploded ordnances in the rural land of Laos. There are free documentaries to make learning more interesting.

I highly recommend paying a visit to COPE Visitor Centre to learn about Laotian history, and to donate some funds to help the organization. The entrance is free !

One thing I didn’t like is the way they treat different types of visitors. I’m not trying to complain, but the staff is very more likely to approach western visitors and explain things to them without asking. They didn’t even show me the donation box when I was leaving, and they never even looked at us or said things like ‘thanks for visiting’. Just saying.

Check out this guide to the most beautiful waterfalls in Laos !

Watch the Sunset Over Thailand in Chao Anouvong Park

What’s a better way to end your day other than watching the sunset? Well, watching a sun setting over another country, in this case, Thailand!

The Mekong River by Chao Anouvong Park and the entire Vientiane city acts as the border between Laos and Thailand. At the park, if you walk closer to the Mekong River, you’ll find yourself a wide stretch of beach. There, you can find yourself a seat and watch the sun setting slowly over the opposite country’s land.

We didn’t know that the opposite was Thailand until we actually looked at Google Maps afterward.

After watching the sunset, then it’s time for dinner and shopping in the Vientiane night market!

There is a handful of food court and food stalls over at Chao Anouvong Park. When I was there, my friend and I were surprised by the numbers of waiters surrounding us.

Once we had a seat, the waiters and waitresses from all the surrounding stalls came over, and put their menu on our table. None of them understand English, and it was extremely awkward and uncomfortable. We had at least 6 menus on our tables and surrounded by 6 people at least. But it’s an unforgettable experience anyway.

If you prefer a better experience, there are loads of restaurants around as well!

Vientiane Chao Anouvong Park Sunset Over Mekong River Thailand Border

Shopping in Vientiane Night Market

Vientiane Night Market is the largest in the country. I was amazed during my visit. It literally took me more than an hour to fully explore everything this night market has to offer, and I’d say you should add this to your Vientiane itinerary.

In this night market, you’ll find plenty of food stalls, but they are not the main highlights. The clothing stalls are. There is a huge variety of clothing to choose from, and they are all cheaper than those you find in other towns like Luang Prabang or Vang Vieng. You might need to negotiate a little bit to get a more satisfying price.

Vientiane Night Market is also a perfect place to buy souvenirs back home because there are quite a lot of foreign tourists there.

The only thing that bothers me is the beg-packers begging for money on the street. And the most disturbing thing is that these beg-packers always get more donations from the locals than the disabled locals on wheelchairs.

Vientiane Night Market is open every day from 5 pm to 11 pm. I highly recommend you to visit this night market!

Vientiane Night Market Crowd

Alternative – Be Amazed in Wat Si Saket

Located at the intersection of Lane Xang Road and Setthathirat Road, Wat Si Saket is the only temple in Vientiane to maintain its original form despite the Siamese invasion in 1827. It was built in 1820 near the Royal Palace by King Anouvong, the last king of Vientiane.

The historic temple houses more than 10,000 images of Buddha in different mudras. The temple was further restored in the 1930s.

The entrance fee is 5,000 Kip per person, and it opens daily from 8 am to 4 pm, with a lunch break between 12 pm to 1 pm.

Vientiane Laos Wat Si Saket Buddhist Temple

Alternative – Take a Walk in Buddha Park or Xieng Khuan

If you still have a lot of spare time and decided to venture out of town, then consider adding the Buddha Park into your Vientiane itinerary. Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan is located 25km southeast of the city.

The sculpture park contains quite a number of Buddha statues and Hinduism images. Although it’s not a temple, it’s sometimes referred to as Wat Xieng Khuan. ‘Wat’ is a temple in the Laotian language.

The park was built back in 1958 by Luang Pu Bounleua Sulilat, who later moved to Thailand and proceeded to create a similar park, called Sala Koeku in Nong Khai. Here, you will enjoy a temporary escape from all the bustling vibe of the capital city.

The only downside is the lack of information boards to tell more about the sculptures and the meaning behind them.

To get there, you’ll have to hire a tuk-tuk, which will cost around 200,000 Kip. Find a few travelers and share the ride together to split the bill. The driver will wait for you at the entrance of Buddha Park until you’re done with your visit, then drives you back to your accommodation.

The park is open every day from 8 am to 4.30 pm. The entrance fee is 5,000 Kip per person, and an additional 3,000 Kip if you bring your camera, pretty weird right?

Vientiane Laos Buddha Park Sculpture

What do you think of this one-day Vientiane itinerary?

Hopefully, this article helped you in planning your one-day transit in Vientiane. Not sure for you, but Vientiane is not much of my thing if compared to Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang. A full day was pretty enough for me to explore. Let me know what you think of this Vientiane itinerary in the comment section below! Till next time, enjoy Laos! Check out my 3 days Luang Prabang itinerary and Vang Vieng itinerary too!

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The Perfect Itinerary For Vientiane Laos

Yen is a university student from Malaysia and a huge fan of Blues music and photography. His passion for travel can be traced back to 2016 when he spent 6 months traveling New Zealand. By blending into the locals and traveling long-term, he shares all the comprehensive and detailed travel ideas and guides for the countries with his footprints.

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Vientiane | An Insider’s Guide to Visiting the Laos Capital

Vientiane, Laos might seem sleepy and languid by Southeast Asia standards, but the Lao PDR capital might surprise you with its diversity of cuisine, quirky sights, friendly locals, and infectious sabai-sabai attitude.

Visiting Vientiane, Laos, elicits such a diversity of opinions from travelers, it’s often hard to know if the laid back capital of Laos is worth a couple days of your Southeast Asia travel itinerary, or even more.

Having lived here for three years (and backpacked the length of Laos, ourselves), one thing has become clear regarding visiting Vientiane — How you interact as a visitor with this enigmatic city (and what your perception of Vientiane ultimately ends up being) very much depends on your individual travel experience and perspective.

Lori and I think we have a unique perspective to lend and are excited to share that perspective (along with insider tips) with travelers looking to get the most out of their visit to Vientiane, Laos.

Read on to discover Vientiane’s best experiences, hidden places to visit (and not so hidden), helpful tips for planning your visit, and why you should visit Laos and Vientiane in the first place. Enjoy!

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vientiane travel blog

Introduction to Visiting Vientiane

Where to stay in vientiane, best things to do in vientiane, laos.

  • Where to Eat + Drink in Vientiane?

How to Get to Vientiane

Getting around vientiane, laos, practical information, vientiane dos & don’ts, planning an unforgettable trip to laos, a detailed guide to vientiane, laos.

map of Vientiane Laos

Lori and I first approached Vientiane via a long bus ride from Luang Prabang , and approached Laos, in general, on the heels of four months of budget backpacking through China, India and Thailand.

For us, the laid back and friendly nature of the Laos people and culture was a breath of fresh air after struggling for months with aggressive peddlers, aggravating taxi and tuk-tuk drivers, and relentless hustlers.

Of the six national capitals Lori and I traveled through during that time, Vientiane was the only one we knew absolutely nothing about, and at just over half a million inhabitants, it was by far the smallest.

We literally had zero expectations and found Vientiane a most agreeable place.

For you, Vientiane may represent a relaxing foodie paradise a world apart from the materialism and go-go-go of better-known Southeast Asia capital cities, or it may represent nothing more than a boring backwater, depending on your point of view.

If you visit expecting to find French-colonial charm and evocative Buddhist temples on par with Luang Prabang , you may well be disappointed.

If you come expecting to find a fast-paced, maddening, cosmopolitan mega-city comparable to Bangkok or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll also likely find yourself disappointed.

If, however, you come to Vientiane with few preconceptions, an open mind, and an adventurous spirit, you will likely find yourself well-rewarded for doing so.

Here, we’ve put together a guide for visiting Vientiane based on our own experiences living in and traveling through this unique city and the rest of Laos.

Lori and I have hosted a number of visitors over the past few years, which has resulted in the bringing together of a lot of information that we would like to share with you.

We hope this guide to visiting Vientiane helps answer questions of what to do in Vientiane, where to eat and drink, where to stay, and how best to approach this often overlooked corner of Southeast Asia.

pool at hotel at sunset

Vientiane’s got a TON more lodging options than you might think. If you don’t know the lay of the land, it can seem like an impossible task to choose the right one.

Here are our top choices for places to stay in Vientiane — all highly-rated, centrally-located, and loaded with amenities for international travelers.

Crowne Plaza Vientiane

OUR TOP UPMARKET / BUSINESS CHOICE. If you’re looking for a top-rated international brand hotel with luxury amenities close to the city center, Crowne Plaza Vientiane is the best option available in Vientiane. Their onsite restaurant 3 Merchants is simply outstanding and comparable to the best restaurants you’re likely to come across in Hanoi, Phnom Penh, or even Bangkok.

Lao Poet Hotel

OUR TOP MID-RANGE BOUTIQUE PICK! Lao Poet Hotel ‘s lux touches, rooftop pool, and very centralized location never disappoint. Excellent onsite terrace and bar for some of the best sunset views in town.

Barn1920s Hostel

OUR TOP BUDGET PICK! Barn1920s Hostel is located in a recently updated French-colonial building is one of the best places in town to meet other travelers AND grab a great cup of coffee. Featuring a garden, shared lounge, and bar, this top-rated retro hostel is a leisurely 10-minute walk to the Mekong and the city’s best restaurants.

Sailomyen Hostel

OUR TOP BUDGET TO MID-RANGE PICK! Sailomyen Hostel offers mod touches and upmarket amenities for pennies on the dollar. Features an excellent onsite coffeeshop and an excellent location within a 10-15 minute of the City Center’s top restaurants and attractions.

Patuxay Victory Monument in Vientiane Laos

If you’re staying downtown, you have the lion’s share of Vientiane’s best eateries footsteps away. 

You also have a half dozen interesting and historic Buddhist temples to wander through, along with opportunities to commune with the locals and the Mother of Waters, the Mekong River.

Unfortunately for visitors, however, Vientiane’s main attractions are spread over many miles across the city. 

While it is possible to walk, there are better ways to see all of the sights, particularly when things really start to heat up from March to October (for our top tips on getting around, see our section on Getting Around Vientiane below).

Here’s a list of top sights in Vientiane that we think are worth your time, along with some of our favorite lesser-known attractions.

Top Attractions

  • Patuxay Victory Monument
  • That Luang (Great Stupa)
  • Top Temples – Wat Si Saket, Wat Si Muang, and Haw Pha Kaeo.
  • COPE Visitor Centre
  • Museums – Lao National Museum (under construction) & Lao People’s Army History Museum
  • That Dam  (Black Stupa)
  • Talat Sao  (Morning Market)
  • Presidential Palace ,  Chao Anouvong statue , &  Night Market

Other Worthwhile Attractions

  • Villa Lao Cooking School
  • Phat Tich  Vietnamese pagoda
  • Kualao Restaurant  (live music & dance)

Far From City Centre

  • Buddha Park
  • Lao Textile Museum
  • Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre
  • Lao Brewery Company (LBC)  brewery tours

Popular Festivals in Vientiane

Vientiane hosts a number of cultural and religious festivals throughout the year that are worth experiencing if you find yourself in town.

3-day long That Luang Festival (usually in November) might just be the biggest religious festival of the year, with thousands of devout Buddhists taking part over the extended holiday season. Check out our full guide on experiencing this unique view into Lao culture and life.

The Vientiane Boat Races (held September/October) are the finals for the nationwide Laos Boat Racing Festival held each year to mark the end of Buddhist Lent.

Pi Mai is the biggest festival of any kind in Laos held to mark the Lao New Year (Buddhist New Year) every April.

More Related Articles & Guides:

  • Hidden Laos | 7 Offbeat Things to Do in Vientiane
  • 20 Worthwhile Day Trips from Vientiane | For Travelers & Locals
  • Buddha Park | Ultimate Guide to Visiting Vientiane’s Spirit City

laab at Buddha Park in Vientiane Laos

Where to Eat + Drink in Vientiane?

There are way too many great restaurants and bars to list here, so Lori and I are only giving you our favorites (so far).

Most of these places are budget to mid-range. We know there are a lot of fancier, more expensive options in Vientiane now, but we haven’t yet made it to those places so we can’t recommend them there.

On the other side of the spectrum, there are a lot of local/ street food eateries we really enjoy, particularly in our neighborhood (Ban Phontan) that are challenging to describe here as they don’t have Romanized names and are far from the typical tourist destinations. However, we’re hoping to devote a future article mapping those favorites as well.

You can search for any of these places on Google maps and find the location for getting yourself there.

For Short-term Visitors

  • Makphet  – Some of the best Lao food in town and also a cooking school (update 2021: Sadly, the original Makphet has closed, but Mini Makphet has proved a promising reboot) [Downtown, near That Dam Black Stupa].
  • Kong View – Lao food, outdoor atmosphere & Mekong sunset views (we go for dinner) [near Wattay airport].
  • Kualao  – Lao food and traditional music & dance performances (dinner) [Downtown, near That Dam Black Stupa].
  • Le Vendom – Our favorite French Bistro in town with great atmosphere (dinner) [Downtown, near Wat Inpeng].
  • Khop Chai Deu – Lao food & outdoor ambience (we go for dinner) [Downtown, near Namphu Fountain].
  • PVO   – Awesome low-key Vietnamese food joint (we go for lunch) [Downtown, between Wat Simuang and Wat Sisaket].
  • Kung’s Cafe   – Lao food (we go for breakfast/brunch) [near Wat Simuang].
  • Kheg   –  Lao food & outdoor garden atmosphere (we go for lunch – we’ve heard they’re in the process of moving) [near Patuxay Victory Monument].
  • Doi Ka Noi   – Fresh Lao food & outdoor garden atmosphere (we go for lunch/ dinner on weekends) [near That Luang Golden Stupa].
  • Koon Duck  – Lao & Thai street food (dinner) [various locations, usually in front of a Mini Big-C].

For International Cuisine

  • Pimenton – Tapas & Spanish food (dinner) [downtown]
  • Taj Mahal Halal  – Delicious Muslim Indian food (dinner) [downtown]
  • Sputnik Burger – Great American-style burgers! (dinner) [downtown, Ban Haysoke]
  • Flavours & Spices   – Delicious Indian food (dosas!) [Sisattanak]
  • Soul Kitchen   – Superb Italian/Pizza (dinner) [near Wat Simuang].
  • Privet – Excellent Russian restaurant [Sisattanak near Russian Embassy]
  • Senglao Cafe  – Hi-So Lao and International cuisine in a hollywood-themed garden setting [Saysettha near Japanese Embassy].

Our Favorite Watering Holes

  • Mekong Zone   – Nearly a quarter mile of local bars and eateries fronting the Mekong River [downtown].
  • Earth Bar – Great mix of people, live international music, and craft beer [downtown, Ban Haysoke].
  • Le Patito – Cafe, Brewery and huge swimming pool! [Sisattanak]
  • Khop Chai Deu   – Multiple levels of outdoor drinking opportunities [downtown, Namphu Fountain].
  • Ban Lao Beer Garden   – Funkiest and most laid back beer garden in town [downtown].
  • Chokdee Belgian Beer Bar   – Enjoy one of dozens of Belgian beers on tap and delicious offerings from the Motherland.
  • Bor Pen Yang   – Legendary local bar, a bit of a hike up to the fourth level, but worth it for the Mekong sunset views! [downtown]
  • The Beer House   – Belgian beers galore, in a cozy, garden atmosphere [downtown, near Chao Anouvang Stadium].
  • Spirit House – The premiere watering hole on the Mekong with one of the largest drink menus in town [downtown].
  • Suntara   – Newly opened in the Vientiane New World complex. Mekong views from a large deck [Vientiane New World].
  • Tully’s Irish Pub – What you’d expect from an Irish Pub, but unique offerings for Vientiane [downtown].
  • Mekong Beach  – BYOB and hang out on the Mekong’s sandy beach in the dry season.

Our Favorite Coffee Shops & Cafes

  • Le Trio Coffee  –   Superb coffee, roasted in-house. This is where I get my coffee beans for home brewing (they’ve got some of the best cold brew in town as well) [downtown].
  • Cafe Vanille   – Where expats go to see and be seen. Their savory crepes are amazing. [3 locations: Downtown in the old Le Banneton, Saysettha and Sisattanak]
  • Tit Kafe – Walk-up and dine-in coffee shop. Best Nitro cold brew in town [downtown].
  • Common Grounds   – Comfortable cafe with Western offerings and large kids play area [downtown].
  • Bakery by Boris – French bakery with a variety of pastries and sandwiches [Wat Simuang]
  • JOMA – North American style coffeeshop with Western. Try their smoked salmon bagel sandwich & Signature Lao Iced Coffee. Kids play area at Phontan location [3 locations: Namphu Fountain, Phontan Village and That Luang].
  • Once Upon a Time  – good food, coffee & comfy tropical-industrial ambience [2 locations: Downtown and Ban Phontan].
  • Little House Cafe   – Japanese coffee shop. Superb coffee, amazing pastries and desserts, and nice outdoor garden area. Try their double-strength iced coffee and rich chocolate truffle balls. [near Wat Simuang].

Lao Airlines turboprop

Wondering how to get to Vientiane? Getting to the laid back capital of Laos might seem easy, but there’s a few things you should know before planning your trip.

Visa On Arrival

As of July 2019, getting a visa on arrival at Wattay International Airport is quick and painless for most nationalities.

For U.S. citizens, you just need to bring your passport, a passport size photograph, the paperwork you receive on your incoming flight, and the visa fee in U.S. currency (USD).

Currently, the fee is US$35 for U.S. citizens.

Flying into Vientiane (Wattay Airport)

Vientiane is NOT a major travel hub and can be costly to fly into. Many carriers, however, offer deep discounts 90 days or more prior to the departure date.

Prior to March 2020, only a handful of carriers had regularly scheduled international non-stop service to Wattay International Airport.

Cities with nonstop international service to Vientiane in 2019:

  • Bangkok (Thailand)
  • Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City (Vietnam)
  • Kunming, Guangzhou, and Shanghai (China)
  • Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia)
  • Seoul (South Korea)
  • Siem Reap (Cambodia)

The primary airline companies that operate out of Wattay International are:

  • Lao Airlines
  • Thai Airways
  • Bangkok Airways
  • Cambodia Angkor Air
  • China Eastern Airlines
  • Sky Wings Asia Airlines
  • T’way Airlines
  • Vietnam Airlines

Flying Into Udon Thani, Thailand

Think twice before booking a flight to Bangkok or Udon Thani (Thailand) with the intention of taking land transport the rest of the way to Vientiane.

If you have plenty of time and want to go this route for the experience, by all means, do it!

However, if you’re short on time and want to go this route simply to save money, it may very well end up costing you more money than flying into Vientiane, not to mention costing you valuable vacation time.

Getting to Vientiane by Rail

Pre-March 2020, there were regularly scheduled overnight trains from Bangkok to Nong Khai, Thailand  (just over the Friendship Bridge from Laos).

From Nong Khai, you can catch a shuttle train the short distance over the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge to  Thanaleng Station in Laos.

Unfortunately, Thanaleng Station is 14 miles from downtown Vientiane. But, there are shared minivans at the station to take you the rest of the way.

We’ve found the sleeper cars on Thai trains to be very comfortable and a good value for the money.

Getting to Vientiane by Bus

Vientiane has three major bus stations:

  • Kua Din (Central) Bus Station
  • Northern Bus Station
  • Southern Bus Station

For destinations in Vientiane Prefecture (such as Buddha Park) most buses currently leave from behind the old Kua Din bus station (near Talat Sao / Morning Market).

Northbound intercity buses (Veng Viang, Luang Prabang, etc.) leave from the Northern Bus Station just north of the Wattay International Airport.

Southbound intercity buses (Thakhek, Savannakhet, etc.) leave from the Southern Bus Station , about 7 mi. northeast of town, naturally.

tuk tuk in Vientiane Laos

Getting around Vientiane isn’t easy. The Laos capital isn’t a major travel hub and bus options are limited. Here’s how to get around Vientiane like a pro.

Upon arriving in Vientiane, many first-time visitors to Laos are surprised with the low level of infrastructure, lack of transport options available, and simply how difficult it can be getting around Vientiane.

Coming from Bangkok, Hanoi, or most other popular Southeast Asia destinations, getting around Vientiane can frustrate even the seasoned traveler.

Through a lot of trial and error in the three years we’ve lived here, we’ve learned a lot of great tips for best ways to get around Vientiane. We’ve compiled our top tips for how to get around Vientiane Capital in this section.

Around Vientiane on Foot

If you’re only in Vientiane for a few days and staying downtown, you won’t need to worry much about transportation .

The majority of the city’s best eats are concentrated downtown in a four-block corridor along the Mekong.

Some of the city’s more major attractions, such as Wat Si Saket , That Dam , and the Mighty Mekong can all be easily accessed on foot, and Patuxay Victory Arch can be reached on foot with just a bit more effort.

Public Buses

Vientiane does not yet have an urban rail system and the public bus system won’t be very helpful to short-term visitors to Vientiane.

With the exception of taking the #14 bus from Kua Din (Central) Station to the Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge or Buddha Park , the public bus and songthaew routes that do exist are not easy to figure out for those with minimal Lao language skills.

Tuk-Tuks, Songthaews & Taxis

For sightseeing away from central Vientiane, tuk-tuks and songthaews are common throughout the downtown area but are far more costly than Phnom Penh or even Bangkok. Individual trips can quickly add up if you are trying to see a lot in one day.

A smarter idea may be to hire a taxi or tuk-tuk through your guesthouse for a set number of hours if you plan to be moving around a lot.

Oddly, we’ve consistently had to pay much more for tuk-tuks and songthaews than we do for taxis, so keep in mind that  a taxi may be the cheapest option for visitors to get around Vientiane .

Bike & Motorbike Rental

Renting a bicycle or motorbike is also a great option for getting around Vientiane, particularly if you plan to stick to the area around downtown. Bicycles and motorbikes can be rented for a low fee from a number of guesthouses in the city center.

Biking can also be a great way to see farther off sights, such as Patuxay , That Luang , and even Buddha Park , but many visitors may feel uncomfortable riding in Vientiane traffic, particularly around rush hour, due to the number of motorbikes and seeming lack of organization.

With that in mind, Sundays are generally a great day for exploring the city on two wheels, as most of the roads are quiet and relatively deserted.

Renting a Car

Depending on your plans during and after your visit to Vientiane, renting a car may be a better choice.

A few major rental car companies have offices at Wattay International Airport . We’ve found that Budget generally has the best rates there.

Tour Options

If you’d rather have your transport planned out and see as much as possible in a short amount of time, there are a few good options in town to  join a group or private city tour .

Green Discovery is one of our favorites, but your guesthouse staff may have more options to choose from as well.

We’ve also heard great things about Tuk Tuk Safari , but have not yet utilized their services, ourselves.

Viator and GetYourGuide also have numerous tours from Vientiane that you can book online in advance with trusted tour operators.

Airport Transfer

Transport to/from the Wattay International Airport is straightforward.

Getting From Wattay Airport

At the airport, visit the Taxi desk near the front doors to arrange an official taxi to any place in town.

Expect to pay between 50,000-100,000 LAK (US$6.00-$12.00) depending on your destination in the city. The ride to/from the airport usually takes around 15-25 minutes.

If you’d like to arrange a private shuttle from the airport to your hotel ahead of time, you can book online in advance.

Getting To Wattay Airport

In terms of getting to the airport or any of the bus stations, your guesthouse can easily arrange a pick-up, or you can flag down a tuk-tuk or songthaew at any number of points downtown.

vientiane travel blog

The most widely spoken language in Laos is Lao , which bears some semblance to Thai. While a former French colony, you may not hear French widely spoken in Vientiane today. English is becoming increasingly more common, particularly among those under the age of 40.

Vientiane time is  GMT/UTC+7 .

Simple time zone conversion online resource:  thetimezoneconverter.com

Electricity

The most common outlets accommodate  230-volt, 2-prong Euro or North American-style electrical plug  (see photo below).

Any U.S. 2-prong plug device that’s rated for 230v (e.g. most home electronics chargers which are generally 110v-240v) will work perfectly here. 3-prong (grounded) plugs will need an adapter.

Most standard 2-prong Euro-style plugs should work fine (though we’ve found some have a tendency to have a problem staying seated firmly in the socket).

electrical outlet in Laos

Public Restrooms

Public restrooms cost between 1000-2000 Kip, so keep a few small bills on you in case the spirit catches you.

Tropical Diseases & Prevention

Yes! Vientiane is in the tropics and does have the occasional outbreak of mosquito-borne infectious diseases. It also harbors its fair share of food-borne illness.

Visit a reputable travel clinic, preferably staffed with providers with knowledge and experience of Southeast Asia, well before your departure date.

To find a travel clinic near you, visit the International Society of Travel  Medicine’s  Online Clinic Directory .

Sisaket Temple in Vientiane Laos

Some helpful considerations for planning your visit to Vientiane. A couple may surprise you.

  • DON’T  wait until the last minute to book inbound flights, particularly from Europe or the Americas.
  • DON’T be afraid to visit in the rainy/low season — guesthouses will often offer a discount and booking ahead generally won’t be necessary.
  • DO book ahead in high season (December-February) if you don’t have flexibility of time, cost or location.
  • DO take a tuk-tuk or songthaew around the city center.
  • DO  check business hours ahead of time — many shops, restaurants and museums are closed on Mondays.
  • DON’T bargain too hard — Laotian vendors are generally fair and honest and don’t mark up their wares for tourists like neighboring countries.
  • DO use the calculator on your phone to agree on a price — If you learn a few numbers in Lao ahead of time, even better.
  • DO stay as close to the city center as possible or budget for transport.
  • DO try and speak some Lao while in Vientiane.
  • DO treat the monks with the utmost respect — ladies, avoid situations that might place you in accidental contact.
  • DON’T worry about flushing toilet paper or placing in receptacle — if there is an obvious receptacle, use it, but Vientiane’s plumbing is surprisingly forgiving.
  • DON’T flush anything but toilet paper — You will live to regret it.
  • DON’T drink the tap water — Brushing teeth and showering in the tap water is perfectly fine. You can generally bet on water and ice cubes served at restaurants being filtered and good to drink.
  • DO eat street food — But be cautious of food (particularly meat) that is not hot and/or has been sitting out for a while. Food hot off the grill/wok is generally fine.
  • DO consider a probiotic regimen before visiting Vientiane if you have concerns about eating local/street food or have experienced issues in the past.
  • DO visit a local fresh market.
  • DO catch at least one Mekong sunset during your stay here — they are pretty amazing.
  • DON’T forget to smile and be polite — Laotians, in general, put enormous value on friendliness and politeness.

Check out our other helpful travel guides from around the country!

  • 16 Amazing Things to Do in Luang Prabang
  • Slow Boat to Luang Prabang | A Detailed Guide
  • Thakhek Loop by Motorbike | Ultimate Guide
  • Konglor Cave | Complete Guide for Travelers
  • 36 Reasons Why You Should Visit Laos

And That’s Our Insider’s Guide to Visiting Vientiane, Laos

Have you visited Vientiane? What did you love? What didn’t you love? Tell us in the comments.

visit vientiane laos

onejoburglife.com

48 Hours Discovering Vientiane: The Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary

by nsovoshimange | Sep 7, 2023 | Laos , South East Asia , Vientiane

If you’ve landed on this page, chances are you’re curious about Vientiane, the laid-back and utterly charming capital of Laos. Maybe you’ve got a long layover, or perhaps you’re squeezing in a quick weekend getaway. Whatever the reason, I’ve got your back!

I recently spent an incredible 48 hours in Vientiane and let me tell you, this city is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From awe-inspiring temples to bustling markets and scenic riversides, Vientiane offers a unique blend of traditional culture and modern comforts. And the best part? You can experience all the highlights in just two days!

So, buckle up, because I’m about to take you on a whirlwind tour of Vientiane that you won’t forget. In this blog post, I’ll walk you through a jam-packed 2-day itinerary, complete with must-see spots, local eats, and even some hidden gems that most tourists miss. Ready to dive in? Let’s go!

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Vientiane

Le Trio Coffee

Morning: Breakfast and Pha That Luang

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at one of the local cafés near your accommodation. I stumbled upon a cozy spot called “Le Trio Coffee,” where I indulged in a Laotian coffee and some delicious pastries. Trust me, you’ll need the energy for the day ahead!

Once you’re fueled up, head straight to Pha That Luang , the iconic golden stupa that’s a symbol of Laos. This place is not just a feast for the eyes; it’s also steeped in history and spiritual significance. I recommend getting there early to beat the crowds and the heat. Don’t forget to dress modestly; it’s a religious site, after all.

Late Morning: COPE Visitor Centre

After soaking in the grandeur of Pha That Luang, make your way to the COPE Visitor Centre . This place offers a sobering but essential look at the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos. It’s a small museum, but it packs a punch. I spent about an hour here and left with a deeper understanding of the country’s history.

Afternoon: Patuxai Monument and Lunch

By now, you’re probably getting hungry again. Time to head to the Patuxai Monument area, where you’ll find a variety of lunch options. I grabbed some mouth-watering Laotian noodles from a street vendor and ate in the park surrounding the monument.

Once you’re done munching, head to the Patuxai Monument – unfortunately you can’t climb up it anymore. It’s often compared to the Arc de Triomphe, but with its own Laotian flair.

Evening: Riverside Walk and Dinner

As the sun starts to dip, make your way to the Mekong River for a leisurely walk. The riverside comes alive in the evening with locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of stalls selling snacks, souvenirs, and even some quirky items.

For dinner, I headed to “Spirit House,” a riverside restaurant with a serene ambiance and delectable food. Try the Laotian curry; you won’t regret it!

Day 2: The Hidden Gems of Vientian e

Patuxai

Morning: Wat Si Saket

After yesterday’s whirlwind tour, you might be tempted to sleep in, but trust me, you won’t want to miss what Day 2 has in store. First up is Wat Si Saket , the oldest temple in Vientiane. This place is a photographer’s dream with its rows of seated Buddhas and intricate architecture. I got there just as the sun was rising, and the whole place had this ethereal glow – totally worth the early wake-up call.

For breakfast, there’s a quaint café nearby called “Common Grounds” where you can grab a cup of joe and some pastries. Their croissants are to die for!

Late Morning: Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

Next, hop on a tuk-tuk or a local bus to Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan . This sculpture park is about a 45-minute ride from the city center, but it’s a journey worth making. The park is filled with over 200 religious statues, including a massive 40-meter reclining Buddha! I spent a couple of hours here just wandering and snapping photos. It’s like stepping into a different world.

Afternoon: Talat Sao Mall and Lunch

Once you’re back in the city, head to Talat Sao Mall for some local shopping and lunch. This isn’t your typical Western-style mall; it’s a blend of modern shops and a traditional market. I picked up some unique souvenirs and even tried my hand at haggling. For lunch, don’t miss the food court on the top floor. I had some amazing sticky rice and grilled chicken – simple but oh-so-delicious.

Evening: Sunset at Chao Anouvong Park

As your 2-day adventure in Vientiane comes to a close, there’s no better way to bid adieu than by watching the sunset at Chao Anouvong Park . Named after a Lao hero, this park offers stunning views of the Mekong River and Thailand on the opposite bank. I found a cozy spot, sat down with a fresh coconut, and just soaked in the beauty of the moment.

And that’s a wrap, folks! Day 2 is all about diving deeper and discovering the hidden gems that make Vientiane so special. Stay tuned for my tips on where to eat and stay, as well as some practical advice to make your trip as smooth as possible.

Where to Eat

Alright, foodies, this section is for you! One of the best things about Vientiane is its diverse food scene. Whether you’re craving traditional Laotian dishes or something a bit more international, this city has got you covered. Here are some of my personal favorites:

Laotian Cuisine

  • Kualao Restaurant : This place is a must-visit for anyone looking to dive into authentic Laotian cuisine. I tried the “Laap,” a minced meat salad, and it was a flavour explosion!
  • Lao Kitchen : If you’re a fan of spicy food, this is your spot. Their “Tam Mak Hoong,” or papaya salad, had me reaching for my water glass – but in the best way possible.

International Flavours

  • Joma Bakery Café : Craving a taste of home? This café offers a range of Western-style breakfasts and pastries. Their bagels are a godsend after days of rice and noodles.
  • Earth : This is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly spot with a global menu. I had their Mediterranean platter, and it was divine.

Street Food

  • Night Market : If you’re up for an adventure, the night market near the Mekong River is a food haven. From grilled meats to fresh fruit shakes, the options are endless.
  • Noodle Stalls : You’ll find these scattered around the city, especially near popular tourist spots. They’re quick, delicious, and super affordable.
  • Tipsy Elephant: This rooftop bar offers a stunning view of the Mekong River, perfect for a sunset cocktail.
  • Khop Chai Deu : For draught beer, don’t miss this spot’s great vibe and well priced beers!

So there you have it – my top picks for eating your way through Vientiane. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Where to Stay

Alright, let’s talk accommodations! Vientiane offers a range of options to suit every budget and travel style. From backpacker hostels to luxury resorts, you’re sure to find a place that feels like a home away from home. Here’s a rundown of some places I’d recommend:

Budget-Friendly

  • Vientiane Backpackers Hostel : If you’re traveling solo or just looking to save some bucks, this hostel is a great pick. It’s clean, centrally located, and has a social vibe that makes it easy to meet fellow travelers.
  • Barn1920s Hostel : Another budget option that doesn’t skimp on style. The vintage décor is Instagram-worthy, and they offer both dormitory and private rooms.
  • S Park Design Hotel : This hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and affordability. The rooms are spacious, and they have a lovely pool to unwind by after a day of exploring.
  • Lao Poet Hotel : Located in the heart of Vientiane, this hotel offers a rooftop pool and bar with stunning city views. The décor is chic, and the service is top-notch.
  • Settha Palace Hotel : If you’re looking to splurge, this colonial-style hotel is the epitome of luxury. Think marble floors, chandeliers, and a lush garden where you can enjoy afternoon tea.
  • Green Park Boutique Hotel : This is another luxury option that offers a more modern aesthetic. The rooms are plush, and they have a beautiful pool surrounded by greenery.

Family-Friendly

  • Ansara Hotel : This hotel offers spacious family rooms and is located close to many of the city’s main attractions. Plus, they have a kid-friendly menu!
  • Dhavara Boutique Hotel : With its colonial charm and large suites, this hotel is perfect for families looking for a bit of luxury without breaking the bank.

So, whether you’re a solo backpacker or traveling with a crew, Vientiane has something for everyone. Just make sure to book in advance, especially during peak tourist season!

Practical Tips

Laos

Before we wrap up, let’s talk about some nitty-gritty details that can make or break your trip. Trust me, a little preparation goes a long way, especially when you’re exploring a new city like Vientiane. Here are some practical tips to keep in mind:

The currency in Laos is the Lao Kip. While some places accept US dollars or Thai baht, it’s best to have some local currency on hand. ATMs are readily available, but I’d recommend withdrawing cash at the airport to avoid any hiccups.

Transportation

  • Tuk-Tuks : These are the most common and fun way to get around. Just make sure to negotiate the fare before hopping in.
  • Bicycles : Many hotels offer bike rentals, and Vientiane is pretty bike-friendly. It’s a great way to see the city at your own pace.

The official language is Lao, but English is widely understood in tourist areas. Still, it doesn’t hurt to learn a few basic phrases like “Sabaidee” (Hello) and “Khop Chai” (Thank you).

Vientiane is generally safe, but like any city, it’s good to stay vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.

Connectivity

Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafés, and restaurants. If you need a constant connection, consider buying a local SIM card. They’re cheap and offer good coverage.

While Vientiane is fairly relaxed, remember that it’s a city with deep cultural and religious roots. Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.

The city has a tropical climate, so lightweight and breathable clothing is your best bet. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat!

And there you have it – my top practical tips for making the most of your 2 days in Vientiane. A little prep can go a long way in ensuring you have a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Wow, what a ride, right? Two days might seem like a short time, but as you’ve seen, it’s more than enough to get a taste of what Vientiane has to offer. From awe-inspiring temples and poignant museums to mouth-watering food and bustling markets, this city is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be uncovered.

If you’re anything like me, you’ll leave Vientiane with a full heart and an even fuller camera roll. And who knows? You might even find yourself planning a return trip to explore more of what this charming city – and the rest of Laos – has to offer.

So go ahead, book that ticket, pack your bags, and set off on your own 2-day adventure in Vientiane. Trust me, you won’t regret it!

And that’s a wrap, folks! I hope this guide has been helpful in planning your trip and that you fall in love with Vientiane just as much as I did. Safe travels and happy exploring!

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One Day In Vientiane: The Best 24 Hours In Vientiane Itinerary

Find out the perfect one day in Vientiane itinerary to ensure you have the ultimate stay in Laos capital city. Learn about the best things to do, restaurants, where to stay, and more to make the most out of your 24 hours in Vientiane!

Vientiane is not a common backpacker destination. There are some interesting things to do here, though most travelers seem to use it as a midway point between Luang Prabang or Vang Vieng and their next destination whether that is Southern Laos or another country.

Nevertheless, whether you ended up with an extra day before your next destination or it is planned, don’t worry because surprising to many travelers, there are some good ways to send one day in Vientiane.

Honestly, my first trip to Vientiane was an absolute flop. So, I was glad to find myself back here earlier this year, even if it was only for 24 hours. A word of caution if you are tubing in Vang Vieng before Vientiane, do not drink the river water!

I spent the following few days absolutely sick. Though, I was super happy to get out and about this time so I could write this perfect one day Vientiane Itinerary so you can make the most out of your time with your 24 hours.

24 Hours In Vientiane: A One Day Vientiane Itinerary For The Best Time

  • Morning: Monuments & Temples
  • Afternoon: COPE Center
  • Evening: Night Market & Beers

More Time In Vientiane?

  • Vientiane Travel Tips

walking to pha that luang 24 hours in vientiane

One Day In Vientiane Itinerary

If you are short on time in Laos capital no worries, you can still check out the highlights in just 24 hours. Vientiane is well worth visiting and makes a great place for an overnight stop when traveling down Laos.

We have broken this itinerary into morning afternoon and night to ensure you have an action-packed day.

Morning- Patuxai & Temples

Start exploring the capital of Laos by checking out some of the impressive monuments and temples which call it home. Though, before you do it is best to start off with a delicious breakfast to keep your energy levels up! An excellent option for those caffeine lovers is Coffee Hut .

They have a wide variety for your breakfast fix while on a budget. If you are looking for fresh juices and bites another great choice is Noy’s Fruit Heaven . Quality ingredients make for the best food so you cannot go wrong here!

Now you are fueled for the daytime to check out some of the best temples and monuments around Vientiane:

Patuxai is a popular landmark among tourists and might even remind you of a certain attraction in Paris. This Arc is an impressive structure in itself, though make sure to climb to the top for the ultimate views.

It was constructed to give commemoration to the Lao citizens who died during the war against France. Even though it is similar to its European counterpart, this one is covered local cultural influences.

To climb to the top there is a fee of $0.35 / 3,00LAK, which is nothing for the impressive views. Watch the traffic circling you as you enjoy the gorgeous surrounding gardens.

This is one of the most popular attractions in Vientiane so it is definitely a smart idea to come here in the morning when it is relatively quiet and the temperatures are not soaring yet.

Pha That Luang is one of the most important monuments in Laos and no doubt the most Instagram famous in Vientiane. It was built back in the 1500s and is one of the defining symbols of Laos. Representing the religious roots of the country it has a mixture of Hindu and Buddhist influences.

There is an entrance fee if you wish to go inside some of the temples within the ground. Though the majority of visitors simply just enjoy the view from the outside. There are plenty of different temples and stupas to see around Pha That Luang so it is easy to spend a considerable amount of time exploring the grounds.

inside temple at pha that luang 24 hours in vientiane itinerary

Afternoon- COPE Center (History Of Laos)

On your way from Pha That Luang to the COPE Center , you are best to stop for lunch. Tyson Kitchen is a popular restaurant serving delicious western meals. This place can get very busy so you are best to go for lunch because you might be waiting for a table at dinner. Make sure to try one of their wood-fired pizzas!

I didn’t know what to expect when visiting the COPE center, but I am so glad I did. The Vietnam War is known throughout many countries, though what many overlook is that Laos also sustained a devastating amount of damage.

It was actually part of the Secret War during the 60s and 70s and bombed so much that it was equivalent to one planeload of bombs being dropped every 8 minutes for a decade. It still holds the title of the most bombed country on earth.

As you can imagine this had a major effect and resulted in many lost limbs. COPE was set up to assist them. Providing artificial limbs, wheelchairs, and physical rehabilitation. Visiting the COPE center is well worth it and an extremely educational experience.

You will learn about the bombings and not just psychological effects, but the fact that there are still many bombs in Laos yet to be detonated.

There is also the Karma Kafe at the COPE center itself which serves fair trade coffee and ice cream. This might be the perfect place to finish off your COPE experience and digest all the information and facts you have just heard. All profits from here also go towards supporting COPE and its mission within Laos. Check out my 2 weeks in Laos Itinerary !

fake limbs at cope center vientiane

Evening – Night Market

Head down alongside the riverfront to enjoy a sunset in the evening. Here you will also find the Vientiane Night Market . This market is a lot different from the other evening markets I have come across in Laos, and by that I mean it is not as touristy.

You won’t find any of those tacky souvenirs, instead, it is a much more local experience. Here they sell technology, clothing, food, and all sorts. Whether you are after a knock-off watch, some sneakers, headphones, you will definitely have no problem finding these items here.

I found it a great place to shop for general items I might have lost or have broken along my travels.

You can either have dinner here at the night markets or there is an excellent local restaurant up from Tysons Restaurant. It is located on the same side of the street and will be absolutely full of locals are tourists enjoying a delicious Lao meal.

The prices here are ridiculously cheap and you will not be spending a couple of dollars for a delicious meal. Their kitchen area is very small and basically on the side of the street so there may be a bit of a wait for your meal. Just grab a beer, relax and enjoy the experience.

After dinner, be sure to head back down to the waterfront to enjoy an evening beer at one of the bars. They like to call them ‘sky bars, though the views are only from about 6 floors up so set your expectations accordingly. Nevertheless, there is still an impressive view from above over the river and the bustling night market.

Now, time to get a little bit of rest before continuing your adventures and departing Vientiane.

skybar view in vientiane

If you have a bit longer in Vientiane I highly recommend visiting Buddha Park. This is more of a day trip from Vientiane, being located 25 kilometers outside of the city, it will take between 40 minutes to 1 hour to travel the distance.

Nevertheless, it is well worth it to make this journey for a unique experience. You can download the ‘Lao Bus Navi’ app which has real-time details on bus schedules and departures in Vientiane.

Once there you will find many Buddhas as well as Hindu Gods. It is a truly interesting experience and is very popular among tourists. Even if it looks a bit dated, this park is actually rather new, having been built in 1958.

To get to Buddha Park you have two options. The first, and easiest, is to go on a guided tour. This will include transportation and a guide which will be able to provide further information on the history.

The second is to take the bus there. You will need to ride bus number 14 from the morning market at a cost of $1.00 / 8000LAK.

Entry into the Buddha Park itself costs $1.75 / 15,000LAK.

Travel Tips For Vientiane

Where to stay.

There are plenty of choices when it comes to choosing your accommodation in Vientiane. From 5* resorts, historic hotels, simple hostels, and locally owned guesthouses, you will find something to fit.

During my most recent visit, we stayed at Mixay Paradise Guesthouse . The rooms pictured online are a lot nicer than the ones we had just walking in. So you might get a better deal when booking online with rates starting room $20.00 per night.

Another choice is Mekong Riverside, which offers air-conditioned private rooms for $16.00 per night. In my opinion that is a great deal, especially in such a good location.

Traveling Around Vientiane

The easiest way to get around Vientiane is by using the LOCA app, which is essentially the Uber and Grab of Laos. It will save you from having to haggle to get a good price and is an excellent choice for navigating the city. As always there are the tuk-tuks you can use as well.

There are plenty of these around and it will not take you long to find one.

Any Questions? Let me know in the comments!

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Find out the perfect one day in Vientiane itinerary to ensure you have the ultimate stay in Laos capital city. Learn about the best things to do, restaurants, where to stay and more to make the most out of your 24 hours in Vientiane!

Want more Laos Inspiration? Check out…. VISIT KUANG SI FALLS, LUANG PRABANG TAKING THE SLOW BOAT TO LAOS VISIT BLUE LAGOON THREE IN VANG VIENG, LAOS RIVER TUBING IN VANG VIENG, LAOS 2 WEEKS IN LAOS ITINERARY HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO TRAVEL IN LAOS?

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. So, if you click on it and purchase something, I get a small percentage at no extra cost to you. As always all opinions are my own and your support is much appreciated.

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Tasha Amy is a true backpacker at heart and has been discovering the world on a budget since 2015. Based in Gisborne, New Zealand she will spend many months each year traveling overseas as a solo female traveler before coming home and sharing her adventures online with you.

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One of my favorite spots. This place is very chill.

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Vientiane Travel Guide – Top 13 Things to See in Capital of Laos

Posted by Carolyn Boston | Jan 3, 2023 | Asia

Vientiane Travel Guide – Top 13 Things to See in Capital of Laos

As the capital and largest city of Laos , Vientiane is a popular base for digital nomads in Laos. Aside from exuding a relaxed and serene vibe, the cost of living in Vientiane is cheaper than other major cities in Southeast Asia. In addition, it offers plenty of fun activities to enjoy during your break from work. For those visiting I hope to inspire you with my Vientiane Travel Guide.

Vientiane lies along the scenic Mekong river. You can go for a lovely walk along the riverfront promenade and stop by one of the cozy cafes for coffee and some French pastries. As a former French colony, you will find many French influences around this Southeast Asian city, which makes it even more interesting to explore.

Below, check out the top things to see in the beautiful capital of Laos.

1. Patuxai Victory Gate

Things To Do In Vientiane - Patuxai

The Patuxai Victory Gate is an iconic landmark of Vientiane reminiscent of the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris . It's a massive arch structure made of concrete standing along Lang Xang Avenue and features Hindu deities and Buddhist symbols with five ornate towers constructed in the traditional Laotian style.

The Patuxai Victory Gate is in Patuxai Park, a lovely park with a fountain, offering a perfect setting for relaxation and enjoying an evening stroll. It's also possible to climb to the top of the tower for a minimal fee, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. Getting to the tower's observation deck requires climbing through a spiral stairway, yet the views at the top make it all worth it.

2. Buddha Park

Vientiane Travel Guide - Buddha park

Another popular attraction in Vientiane is Buddha Park , locally known as Xieng Khuan. It's an open-air sculpture park featuring massive sculptures of Hindu and Buddha deities, founded by a monk and a sculpture artist named Bunleua Sulila. The park is located outside Vientiane, about 25 km southeast of the city center.

Established in 1958, Buddha Park is a fantastic place to explore. Highlights include the reclining Buddha of 40 meters long, the two-headed elephant, and a Hindu god called Indra. To get to Buddha Park, take bus #14, which leaves Talat Sao Bus Station every 40 minutes. You can also rent a private vehicle to take you to the park. It's open from 8 AM to 5 PM daily.

3. Presidential Palace of Vientiane

Vientiane Travel Guide - Presidential Palace of Vientiane

Constructed in 1973, the magnificent Presidential Palace of Vientiane serves as the official residence of the Royal Lao Government. The beautiful structure was designed by a local architect and opened in 1986, after the political takeover of the communist political movement in 1975.

The Presidential Palace also hosts several government functions and political ceremonies. However, it is not open to the public. Still, many tourists would come to admire the building's magnificent facade featuring Beaux-Arts architecture, with wrought-iron gates and shaded balconies. The palace is made even more beautiful by the lush gardens in its surrounding. It looks even more spectacular at night when illuminated with bright lights.

4. COPE Visitor Center

Cope centre Vientiane Laos

Image Credit: Cope centre Laos

COPE means Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise, a charity organization offering rehabilitation programs for the local Laotian people with physical disabilities. Most of those they support are victims of hidden explosives scattered all over the country after the Vietnam War. These explosives are known as UXO or unexploded weapons, which you will find scattered in the countryside and continues to injure thousands of locals to this day.

COPE provides the funds to manufacture different orthotic devices to support the victims. Aside from manufacturing prosthetic arms, legs, and hands, they also provide wheelchairs and tricycles to help the victims. Currently, COPE has five rehabilitation centers across Laos, but the headquarter is in Vientiane. Most of the victims they support live in rural areas, where most of the unexploded weapons are. Visitors will find various exhibits and documentary films when visiting the center. You can also witness how they create these prosthetics at the workshop on-site.

5. Vientiane Night Market

Vientiane Night market

One of the best ways to soak up the culture of a place is to visit local markets. The bustling Vientiane Night Market is a great place to see if you want to learn more about the local life in Vientiane. It's along the Mekong Riverfront with several rows of red-roofed stalls selling everything, from souvenirs to handicrafts, accessories, clothing, and more. If you want to buy something, try to haggle with the local vendors, which is part of the local experience.

After shopping, explore the riverfront area and check out the children's playground, a flower garden, a Chinese shrine, and the statue of Chao Anouvong facing the Mekong. Come here at sunset, where you'll see vendors setting up their stalls. It usually gets crowded around 8 PM. If you want to avoid the crowd, come here early.

6. Pha That Luang Monument

Vientiane Travel Guide - Pha That Luang

Buddhism is the dominant religion of Laos, so it's not surprising to find several Buddhist monuments in Vientiane. One of these is the Pha That Luang , an impressive religious structure housing the breastbone of Buddha brought to Vientiane by an Indian missionary. It was constructed in 1566 under the orders of King Setthathirat after Vientiane became the capital of Laos. At the main entrance, you'll find the statue of a former Lao King standing in front of the main entrance. Covered in real gold with painted turrets around the central stupa, Pha That Luang is about 44 meters tall.

Every year between October and November, the That Luang festival, one of Laos' most significant Buddhist celebrations, takes place here. The event features traditional performances, fun parades, and religious ceremonies. Pha That Luang lies 4 km northeast of Vientiane, and you can take a tuk-tuk or bike to get here. Many guesthouses are only a short walk from here.

7. Laos National Cultural Hall

Vientiane Travel Guide - Laos National Cultural Hall

One of the places to see in Vientiane is the Lao National Cultural Hall, a government-run exhibition hall that opened in March 2000. It's a massive building with grand designs located on a road that connects Rue Setthathilath to Rue Samsenthai. The place can accommodate up to 1,500 guests and has two conference rooms and a spacious lobby with art exhibits.

Sometimes, the Lao National Cultural Hall will show French films and classical performances. The massive building features traditional Lao architecture with white and gold accents and elaborate carvings of Buddhist symbolisms. Aside from classical shows, the Lao National Cultural Hall also hosts car shows and other modern events. One of the things you will notice at the building is the flag of the  People's Republic of China flying in front of the hall beside the Laotian flag. The reason is that the building was built with the help of the Chinese government.

8. Wat Si Saket Temple

Vientiane Travel Guide - Wat Si Saket Temple

Wat Si Saket is another Buddhist temple in Vientiane that's worth visiting. It has thousands of Buddha sculptures of different sizes scattered across the temple. What's fascinating about this temple is that it survived the Siamese occupation in 1828, despite much of the city being destroyed. With a history dating back to 1818, Wat Si Saket has an interesting layout and architecture.

Some of the highlights in Wat Si Saket include the ornate 5-tiered roof, a small library featuring Burmese-style roofing, a drum tower, and the ordination hall's gorgeous floral ceiling. It also features 7,000 images made of bronze, wood, and stone. You'll find Wat Si Saket along Lan Xang Road. Come early in the morning to see locals praying and giving an offering to the monks.

9. Wat Sok Pa Luang

Wat Sok Pa Luang

Given its serene atmosphere, Wat Sok Pa Luang is a wonderful place to visit to meditate. You will find monks leading a sitting and walking meditation session every Saturday afternoon at this temple. The meditation takes place in the open-air pavilion every 3 PM.

Foreign visitors can join the meditation session. In fact, the session starts with an ice-breaking conversation with the English-speaking monks before they start with meditation. Everyone can join for free, although donations are highly appreciated. It's a fantastic experience for those who want to learn how Buddhists meditate. If you want to deepen your practice, you can take up the intensive Vipassana meditation workshops at the temple twice a year.

10. Wat Si Muang

Vientiane Travel Guide - Wat Si Muang

Wat Si Muang is a lovely Khmer temple with an interesting legend and holds great significance among the Laotians. Built during King Setthathirat's time in 1563, the golden structure was named after Si Muang, a woman who threw herself into a hole in the ground where the building's main pillar was erected as a form of sacrifice to appease the angry spirits.

You will find a small statue of Si Muang at the back of the temple, along with heaps of bricks said to date back to her time. Wat Si Muang is right beside the monument of King Sisavang Vong, which you can view by entering through the gate within the temple complex. You will find local vendors selling street foods, bananas, flowers, coconuts, and other items at the entrance to the temple.

11. Haw Phra Kaew

Vientiane Travel Guide - Haw Phra Kaew

Haw Phra Kaew is a former Buddhist shrine built as a chapel for the royal family in 1565 that now serves as a museum. It houses the Emerald Buddha believed to have been stolen from nearby Thailand and is now on the grounds of the Grand Palace of Bangkok . As you stroll through the temple, you'll see displays of several Buddha statues, including 6th-century stone sculptures. You will also find several Lao treasures, such as the gilded throne, bronze frog drums, Buddhist stone tablets, and palm-leaf manuscripts.

One of the highlights is the stair's balustrade that features a dragon with heads facing the grounds, guarding the temple. Outside, you will find a well-tended garden, a perfect setting to relax and meditate.  

12. Laos National Museum

Laos National Museum

Credit: Wikipedia

To learn more about the history of Laos and its people, visit the Lao National Museum , which showcases the history of the Laotians from prehistoric times. It's also a wonderful place to spend a few hours after being under the sun outdoors. The museum is housed in an old French colonial building with some exhibits already fading.

The bottom floor focuses on the country's early history and showcases pottery shards and dinosaur bones. On the upper floor is a more modern presentation of Laos, including the history of French colonization and the country's fight for independence.

13. That Dam (Black Stupa)

Black Stupa Laos

That Dam is another religious structure to see in Vientiane. It's a 16th-century Buddhist stupa located in the city center. Also called the “Black Stupa”, the stupa was once covered in pure gold, but locals believe that Naga, the seven-headed water serpent, has dwelled here to keep it protected.

During the war between the Laotians and Siamese in the late 1820s, the gold was pillaged and taken to Siam, now called Thailand. That Dam sits in a quiet roundabout near the morning market and the American Embassy.

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Carolyn Boston

Carolyn Boston

"I’m an avid traveller who has been travelling the world on a budget for several years now. Recently, I quit my 9 to 5 job so I can discover more of the world without having to worry about limited vacation leaves!

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24 Amazing things to do in Vientiane: The most quiet capital in the world

Landlocked between China, Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia, Laos is the country that gets forgotten by travelers exploring Southeast Asia . I could see hundreds of blogs with information about Bangkok , Phuket, Ho Chi Minh, and Phnom Penh, but very few about Laos, and especially its capital- Vientiane. Before visiting, I knew almost nothing about Laos and this was a real mystery country for me, but after spending some time in Laos’ capital, it started revealing some of its secrets to me and I discovered a very interesting city under the surface. That’s why I decided to write this Vientiane travel guide. I’ll try to give you some useful suggestions about awesome things to do in Vientiane, where to eat, and a bunch of other useful tips that will help you make the most out of your trip.

Before my trip to Laos , I heard it being described as a ‘less developed’ Cambodia . I was soon educated on how woefully wrong that was…

Vientiane, the most quiet capital in the world

I’ve never quite seen a capital city like Vientiane. Apart from the remnants of French influence, Vientiane seemed pretty generic and too quiet for a capital. There aren’t big and fancy skyscrapers or shopping malls and crazy nightlife, but yet there’s this peculiar charm, especially in the sunsets next to the Mekong River.

laos

In Vientiane, everything happens next to the river. You can see an array of food and beer stalls, street vendors, musicians, and jugglers. All this creates a visual and aural disharmony, but still beautiful in its own way. You can hear Lao pop (very likely the world’s worst) coming from every corner, while most of Vientiane’s 600,000 people seem to be here, squeezed along the Mekong bay.

Getting to Vientiane

things to do in Vientiane streets

Even the airport seemed awfully quiet even though I didn’t arrive at an odd hour. There’s no Uber in Laos. There is a similar app (whose name I forgot) but I didn’t have any luck in booking a cab with it despite my numerous attempts. This means that the only way to get out of the airport is a shuttle bus or a pre-booked taxi/minivan. However, the airport isn’t very far from the city center- only around 6km, so even the cab doesn’t cost a lot.

While we’re at it, if you’re looking for a cheap flight to Vientiane, check out this Qatar Airways special offer and save big on all flights to Laos . If you’re coming from some of the neighboring countries by bus or train, use the form below to find the cheapest prices for getting to Laos.

Where to stay in Vientiane?

things to do in Vientiane streets

As I mentioned above, Vientiane isn’t a big city, and staying in the city center isn’t much different than staying away from it. The prices aren’t very different as you might expect when visiting other capitals around the world but it surely is more convenient to stay in the center because most of Vientiane’s attractions are located in near proximity. 

If you’re looking for some good hotel deals, you can use this Booking.com discount code to get up to 15% off on all accommodation properties in Vientiane. Alternatively, you can choose one of the many local hostels , some of which are priced as low as $1.5 per night.

Additionally, most hostels have a lot of solo travelers visiting them and you can arrange your transportation to near-by sights for a really good price if you are a guest. One day trips to Buddha Park and Long Kor cave cost around 100,000 Kips ($12 USD) but more about this below. Let’s see which are some of the most exciting things to do in Vientiane.

Vientiane museums

We’re starting off this list of things to do in Vientiane with the capital’s most popular museums. True, Vientiane’s museums are relatively modest compared to the ones in Bangkok, Ha Noi, and even Phnom Penh, but are a great place to learn about the country’s culture and heritage.

Lao National Museum

laos national museum

A lot of travelers and travel websites describe this museum as ‘being rundown’ but personally, I can’t help but disagree. Sure, the museum isn’t glamorous but it’s a great display of the story of Laos, its people, their culture, their struggles, and the heritage they left behind. Here, you can find neolithic artifacts, ancient pottery remnants, weapons from the war, Communist documents and propaganda, and a lot of other artifacts that showcase Lao’s strive and independence with all the struggles along the way.

If you’re looking to learn more about the history of this small, mysterious country, the National Museum is a great place to start. The entrance fee is $1 USD. 

Lao People’s Army History Museum

laos security museum

Speaking of things to do in Vientiane, we just have to mention Vientiane’s People’s Army History Museum. The museum is dedicated to the leaders of Laos’ war of independence. The museum is home to more than 10,000 artifacts, photos, and weapons that cover the period between 1950 and 1975 and the two Indochina wars; the first one being Laos’ War of Independence and the second one being the Vietnamese War. 

Enjoying this post? Then you may also like our list of hidden places in Vietnam .

Kaysone Phomvihane Museum

The Kaysone Phomvihane Museum is one of the newest additions to Vientiane’s museum scene. It was opened in 1995 to commemorate the 75th birthday of the first leader of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Kaysone Phomvihane . The museum portrays the leader’s life and here, you can find a lot of artifacts related to him, including a model of the house he was born in and the cave he was using as a hideout during the war.

Haw Phra Kaew

Vientiane temples

Even though not as famous as the eponymous temple in Bangkok, Haw Phra Kaew in Vientiane is one of the most popular temples/museums in the capital. This temple was built in 1565 and throughout the years, it served as a royal chapel and for a brief period, also housed the sacred jade Emerald Buddha after it was stolen from the Siam Kingdom. The Siamese (today Thai) managed to retrieve the Emerald Buddha but the name remained the same.

Today, the once-temple was turned into a museum that houses some of the most important artifacts in Laos, including sculptures and statues, ancient relics, a lot of Buddhist art, and the iconic golden throne. 

COPE Vientiane

cope vientiane things to do

You probably know all about the horrors of the Vietnam War but do you know about the Secret War that took place in Laos? Between 1964 and 1973, the US army dropped more than 2 million tonnes of bombs in Laos (more than the total number of bombs used in WWII) in attempts to cut off the Vietnamese communists from the infamous Ho Chi Minh Route, their perhaps most important supply route. 

The consequences of this were horrible; for nine years in a row, on average, at least one bomb blasted every 8 minutes, 24 hours a day. To make things even worse, around 80 million of the landmines never detonated and are scattered around Laos’ countryside. Today, almost 50 years later, people in Laos still die because of this.

This NGO/rehab clinic/free museum showcases this not-so-known part of Laos’ history. I strongly recommend you visit it- you will learn a lot of things you didn’t know about this war. The entrance is free but after visiting, I’m sure you’ll want to leave at least a small donation.

Vientiane Temples

The main religion in Laos is Theravada Buddhism . Hence, you can expect to see a lot of beautiful Buddhist temples and Vientiane is no exception. And with all the beautiful temples around, this list of things to do in Vientiane wouldn’t be complete without showcasing some of Vientiane’s most important temples.

Pha That Luang- Vientiane’s Holiest Shrine

pha tat luang

Located in Vientiane’s northeastern part, this temple is probably the most important religious and cultural monument in Laos and one of the most interesting things. todo in Vientiane. The temple was constructed in 1566 on top of the remains of an ancient Khmer temple. Additionally, according to historical sources, a temple existed here as early as 250 B.C. when King Ashoka sent workers in Vientiane to build a temple where they would consecrate a piece of Buddha’s breastbone.

Whether this is true or not, no one can deny the temple’s stunning architecture and its importance to Laos. The golden dome-shaped stupa is perhaps the most iconic monument in Laos and it can even be found on the country’s national seal and most currency bills.

Today, the temple is surrounded by few other architectural masterpieces as well, making the complex looks more like a fortress, rather than a monument. So, if you’re searching for ideas of what to do in Laos, this temple is just a must-visit.

Wat Si Saket

wat si saket

Wat Si Saket is the oldest temple in Vientiane that wasn’t damaged and restored as a consequence of an act of war or a natural disaster. The temple was built in 1818 and is famous for housing close to 7,000 ceramic, stonxe, bronze, and silver statues and images of Buddha nestled into the temple’s walls, some of which up to 500 years old.

If you wake up early enough, you can also catch a fascinating ritual in which locals bring their offerings to the temple’s monks. The temple is open for visitors during this time but that doesn’t mean you should intrude on this important ceremony with the clicking sounds of your camera or mobile phone. Be respectful! 

wat inpeng

This 16th-century temple is one of the less-frequented temples in Vientiane. It’s located near the banks of the Mekong River and is famous for its beautiful murals and statues. However, in my opinion, the most dazzling thing about this temple is the gate that’s ‘guarded’ by a green seven-headed Naga snake.

Other Vientiane Landmarks

So far, we covered the most important temples and museums in Vientiane but this doesn’t mean we’re approaching the end of this list of things to do in Vientiane. These barely scratch the surface! Life in Vientiane starts and ends at…

The Mekong Riverside

The Mekong River has historically been a giver and taker of life in Southeast Asia for thousands of years. Even more in Laos, as the only landlocked country in the region. The Mekong for Laos has the same importance as the Nile for Egypt, the Ganges for India, or Huang He for China. Without Mekong’s waters, life would be a daily struggle for survival; but still, its waters made life a daily bet for some villages, whether through natural disasters or diseases throughout history.

Mekong riverside Laos

Even in these modern times, this is clearly visible. While walking around the streets of Vientiane you might get the impression that it’s a boring city. Just take a walk on the Mekong Bay and your presumptions will be completely denied. The charm of Vientiane lies at the Mekong Bay. It’s here that the boring, generic city transforms into a vibrant and authentic scenery. It’s at the Mekong Bay where you truly will experience the best of what Vientiane has to offer and discover some of the most exciting things to do in Vientiane.

The French Influence

patuxai things to do in vientiane

Laos used to be a French protectorate back in the days, and Vientiane as its capital has an obvious French influence in its appearance. The city is a unique mix of Oriental and French architecture. There are a lot of colonial looking buildings and breathtaking temples peeking through the wide boulevards. The wine and coffee shops with the flaky baguettes in the window, just add to the French legacies which are ubiquitous in this country, especially in its capital. And speaking of French influence…

vientiane travel guide

Patuxai , also known as the Laos Victory Gate is a famous replica of the Arc de Triomphe. This monument is a symbol of Laos’ independence and all the soldiers that died fighting for freedom. The Patuxai is actually a bit larger than the Arc de Triomphe. Take that, France!

If you’re looking for a good view to click some amazing pictures of Vientiane, it only costs 10 cents to climb up to the 7th floor of the Patuxai and enjoy probably the best view in Vientiane, especially during the sunset.

Fun fact: the monument was constructed with cement that was supposed to be used for the new airport runway. That’s why a lot of locals refer to Patuxai as the ‘vertical runway’.

that dam vientiane

Similarly to the National Museum, a lot of travelers refer to this stupa as nothing more than a pile of bricks. However, this is actually one of Vientiane’s most important historic landmarks. 

That Dam was actually once covered in pure gold but during the Siamese-Laotian War of the 19th century, all of the gold was was pillaged, giving That Dam its modern appearance. Sadly, as a consequence, this old stupa is seen as ‘nothing spectacular’ and most tourists choose not to visit it during their trip to Vientiane. 

Enjoy the sunset at Chao Anouvong Park

Vientiane architecture

Chao Anouvong Park is a park named after Chao Anouvong who was the last monarch of the Kingdom of Vientiane and the leader of the Laos Rebellion. His statue is located in the center of the park and near it, lies one of my favorite sunset spots in Vientiane.

This small park next to the Mekong River is the perfect spot to observe the vibrant banks of the Mekong River and Vientiane’s charming riverside. This is where the real show in Laos happens as dusk starts unwinding over the city; you’ll see a lot of people walking along the riverside, a myriad of street food vendors, and the city coming to life after a long working day.

Another thing that makes this park a perfect sunset spot is its near proximity to…  

Vientiane’s night market

vientiane night market

After sunset, all street vendors take out their stalls and turn the riverside into a bustling night market that reminded me of the night markets in Chiang Mai . Sure, the market is mostly for tourists but here, you can find practically anything from Beerlao t-shirts to traditional clothes, handicrafts, and other relics. If you’re looking for a place where you can find good bargains for some authentic souvenirs, the night market is a perfect choice.

If you’re a fan of local liquors, try to bargain for a bottle of Lao Lao; a traditional rice whiskey that has a scorpion in the bottle!

Rue Setthathirath

drought beer

If you’re looking for a place to unwind after a long day of exploring the city, there’s no better place in Vientiane than Rue Setthathilath . Here, you can find a lot of cafes, bars, restaurants, and even a lot of French-style bakeries with baguettes peaking from the window shops. 

Sangha College

Before visiting Vientiane, I could only dream about chatting with a Buddhist monk but in Vientiane, this is completely normal. Monks regularly visit the Sangha College once per month to chat with students and tourists passing by. So, you can finally ask them all the questions that have been bothering you for years. It’s definitely a unique experience.

Leisure activities in Vientiane

If you want to catch a break and indulge in some leisure activities, here are a couple of suggestions! 

Get a traditional Lao massage

lao massage

Just like Thailand, no trip to Laos is complete without trying a local massage. The massage starts with some foot reflexology and culminates with rhythmic repetition of pressuring spots you didn’t even know existed. Just try it, you’ll thank me later! 

Visit a herbal sauna 

aromatic sauna

If you want to relax like a local, treat yourself with a trip to a herbal sauna. The medicinal benefits of steaming in a sauna with aromatic herbs are huge and if you follow this up with a Lao massage, you’ll feel reborn and gain more energy for some more exciting things to do in Vientiane, such as…

Learning Traditional Arts

Lao Disabled Women’s Development Center

At Lao Disabled Women’s Development Center is a place where disabled women can find support and contribute to society. Here, they learn new empowering skills that help them make a living for themselves. You as a visitor, can also participate in these courses and workshops and learn some traditional crafts, arts, and techniques while supporting these women at the same time.

Day trips from Vientiane

Now that we covered most interesting things to do in Vientiane, it’s time to move onto day trips. There are a couple of quick getaways that you have to take when visiting Vientiane. Let’s start with the most popular one.

Buddha Park

buddha park laos

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) is located 25 km on the outskirts of the city and is home to more than 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues sprinkled across the place. Some of the statues are fascinating while others are flat-out bizarre but one thing is for certain; no temple or park in Southeast Asia can match Buddha Park when it comes to religious statues. 

Some of the park’s most popular statues include Indra on a three-headed elephant, 40-meters-high reclining Buddha, a head with four arms and no torso, a three-story pumpkin, etc.

Tad Moun Waterfall

Tad Moun Waterfall

If you’re fond of the outdoors, you should definitely visit Tad Moun Waterfall. Located only 24 kilometers out of the city, you can easily rich the falls by hiring a driver. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also rent a bicycle and try to reach by cycling. It’s safe, cheaper, and one heck of an adventure! 

Phou Khao Khouay National Biodiversity Conservation Area

This protected area is only 40 minutes away from Vientiane and is the perfect choice for a day trip. The conservation area is home to a myriad of waterfalls, rivers, gorges, sandstone cliffs, and a large stretch of mountains that’s home to elephants, monkeys, tigers, bears, deer, and numerous plant species.

Nam Ngum Dam

Nam Ngum Dam

Sitting in the northeastern part of the Tran Ninh Plateau, Nam Ngum is the largest lake in Laos and the first hydropower dam in the country. Sure, the lake is man-made but that doesn’t take away its beauty. This is one of the favorite picnic spots of the Vientiane locals and you can always see a lot of people fishing and swimming in the lake. It’s the perfect place if you want to unwind and see some of the charming countryside that surrounds the capital.

Wat Dane Soung

The Dang Soung Plateau was once upon a time a spiritual hub of the ancient Vientiane Kingdom. According to several historical sources, the remains of the temple that can still be found in the southern part of the plateau date back to at least 1,000 years ago.

There were several attempts to reconstruct this temple in the 1980s and 1990s but both were unsuccessful. However, the foundation of the temple and the numerous Dvarati-style Buddha images that are carved into the temple’s remains are still open to the public. If you’re like me and like getting off the beaten track, this is one place you wouldn’t want to miss.

If you want to get there, get out on the road to Luang Prabang and drive to Houakoua. After the bridge, turn left and head to Ban Nagnang (you’ll pass Ban Naxone on the way). Take the dirt-track road next to the local school and drive until you see a small lake. From here, follow the route and you’ll get to the Wat Dane Soung Jungle Temple.

Is Vientiane Safe?

vientiane

Saying that Vientiane is the safest capital in Southeast Asia is probably not an exaggeration. Incidents are a rarity and scam artists aren’t as common as in some other Asian cities . However, that doesn’t mean that you don’t need travel insurance. 

Personally, I always choose SafetyWing . To be honest, they are more expensive than everyone else but they provide coverage even for the least likely of events that don’t happen often but when they do, they can live you stranded. After all, it’s better to be safe than sorry.

A few words for the end

Finally, if you are looking for a busty and dynamic city, Vientiane probably wouldn’t be the best choice. The city is quite different compared to the neighboring capitals like Bangkok and Hanoi . However, Laos is a country that’s’ certainly worth a visit, especially because of its raw, untouched and unexplored nature. After the Vietnamese War, Laos became the most bombed country per capita , leaving most of its forest not reachable because of the number of active mines that’s still out there.

Vientiane the most quiet capital in the world

In Laos, all roads lead to and from Vientiane. I always say you can get an idea about a country from life in its capital, and Vientiane is an example of the laid back and calm nature of Lao people…

Helpful resources for visiting Vientiane

For the cheapest flights to Vientiane, Qatar Airways is always a great choice. To save even more, this use this Qatar Airways special offer and save big on all flights to Laos .

For travel insurance, I always recommend SafetyWing .

Do you want to rent a car in Vientiane? This offer gets you up to 30% off on all car rentals in Laos.

If you want to travel around Laos by bus or train, use 12goAsia and save big on all transportation bookings (for more info check out our 12go Asia review ).

For saving on accommodation, this Booking.com offer gets you up to 20% on all accommodation bookings in Vientiane. 

FInally, don’t forget to sort out your visa. To get your visa for Laos without a trip to the embassy, consider using Ivisa . I have used their services a few times in the past and their service is amazing.

How did you like this list of things to do in Vientiane? Which ones were your favorite? Did you ever get the chance to visit any of them? Let us know in the comments.

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things to do in vientiane

Monday 18th of February 2019

We lived in Vientiane for two years before we moved to Portugal. Miss it loads, it's a great foodie town!

Passport Symphony

Tuesday 19th of February 2019

Absolutely, Sarah. Vientiane is one of my favorites too.

Wednesday 30th of January 2019

Ahhh Laos was on my bucket list when we were in SE Asia, but you are right- it just got forgotten in all of the planning. But now I feel like I need to go back specifically for it! I love how quiet and un-touristy it looks in comparison to the other main tourist destinations.

Thursday 31st of January 2019

You absolutely have to visit Chloe! It's an amazing experience :)

Shreya Saha

Yes, it is indeed one of the more quiet capitals of the world. When I was there, I loved visiting the famous temple that you see on their currency also. The Patuxai Monument was also good. Did you go the Buddha Garden?

Absolutely, Shreya0 I visited all those places too and I also checked out the Buddha Park :)

Yukti Agrawal

Vientiane is a quiet city and located on banks of Mekong river which makes it a worth visiting place. I love quieter places and definitely Vientiane looks charming to me. I would love to go for Buddha Park and architectural wonders of That Luang as they are beautiful side trips from this peaceful city. Thanks for sharing an offbeat destination with many thing things to do here.

Thank you, Yukti and I hope you get the chance to visit soon.

You're right, Laos isn't written about as much as it's neighbours, which are way more popular tourist destinations. I am surprised to read that Vientiane is a quiet city, considering that it is the capital. Although that isn't the worst thing! I would love to visit the night market near Mekong Bay and the Buddha Park. Also, interesting that they have a replica of the Arc de Triomphe. So many cities seem to -I was recently in Bucharest and they did too. French influence can be seen in so many parts of the world :)

Of course, it's not the worst thing, on contrary, I really enjoyed it. I don't know is it because I got used to noisy, traffic-jammed Asian cities (lived and traveled around for 2 years) but Vientiane definitely felt like the quietest one among all the capital cities.

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Things to Do in Vientiane, the Capital of Laos, and the Surrounding Vientiane Province

vientiane

When planning your Laos tours , one destination that should undoubtedly be on your list is Vientiane, the capital city nestled along the scenic Mekong River. In this vibrant city and its surrounding Vientiane Province, there's a myriad of authentic Lao experiences awaiting exploration. From serving authentic Lao cuisine to visiting Buddhist temples, the largest city in Laos seamlessly blends the rich cultural tapestry of Lao and Thai influences. Join us as we delve into the enchanting allure of Vientiane, uncovering the captivating things to do in this culturally rich destination.

What is the history of Vientiane?

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, boasts a history that spans centuries, marked by cultural influences, political changes, and a resilient spirit. Originally, Vientiane was a part of the Khmer Empire, evident through archaeological findings such as ancient temples. However, the city's prominence grew during the 16th century when King Setthathirath moved the capital from Luang Prabang to Vientiane.

The city faced a series of challenges, including invasions by the Burmese in the 18th century and subsequent Siamese control. By the late 19th century, Vientiane became a French protectorate as part of French Indochina. This colonial period left a lasting impact on the city's architecture, with French colonial buildings blending seamlessly with traditional Lao structures.

Laos gained independence in 1954, and Vientiane became the capital of the newly formed Kingdom of Laos. The city continued to evolve, playing a pivotal role during the Vietnam War when it served as a key supply route known as the Ho Chi Minh Trail.

In recent decades, Vientiane has experienced rapid modernization and urban development, yet it retains its cultural heritage. Visitors to Vientiane can explore historical sites like Pha That Luang, a symbol of Lao Buddhism, and Wat Si Saket, the oldest Buddhist temple in the city. The history of Vientiane unfolds through its architecture, monuments, and the enduring spirit of its people.

Exploring the Vientiane City: Capital of Laos

Vientiane, is a city brimming with diverse attractions that cater to every traveler's interests. From its historical and architectural marvels to its rich Buddhist heritage and scenic beauty, Vientiane offers a captivating blend of experiences. Whether you are drawn to cultural delights, hidden gems, or simply soaking in the beauty of nature, Vientiane has something to offer for everyone.

What are the main attractions in Vientiane?

When exploring Vientiane, visitors are greeted with a myriad of captivating attractions. The Pha That Luang, a grand golden stupa, stands as a national symbol of Laos and is a must-visit for those interested in the country's rich history and culture. The city's serene Mekong River offers a picturesque setting for visitors seeking tranquility and scenic beauty.

How can I best experience the cultural delights of Vientiane?

Vientiane's cultural tapestry is woven with vibrant Buddhist temples, known as “Wat,” such as Wat Si Muang and Wat Si Saket, which boast stunning architecture and serve as serene havens for spiritual reflection. Additionally, delving into the morning market provides an authentic glimpse into the local way of life, with an array of handicrafts and culinary delights on offer.

What hidden gems are there to discover in Vientiane?

While exploring Vientiane, hidden gems await those willing to venture off the beaten path. The tranquil Wat Sok Pa Luang, nestled amidst lush surroundings, offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. With its unspoiled charm, the quaint city of Laos provides a unique and authentic experience for adventurous travelers.

Where is Vientiane located?

Vientiane is located in the central part of Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. Situated on the eastern bank of the Mekong River, Vientiane is positioned near the border with Thailand. It serves as the capital and largest city of Laos, offering a strategic location along the Mekong River that has influenced the city's historical, cultural, and economic significance. The geographic coordinates of Vientiane are approximately 17.9757 degrees latitude and 102.6331 degrees longitude.

How do you get to Vientiane?

Getting to Vientiane, can be accomplished through various means of transportation. Here are common ways to reach Vientiane:

  • Wattay International Airport (VTE): The main international airport serving Vientiane is Wattay International Airport. It accommodates flights from major regional hubs such as Bangkok, Hanoi, and Kuala Lumpur. Direct international flights are available from cities in Asia, providing convenient access to Vientiane.
  • Bus: Vientiane is well-connected by bus services from neighboring countries. There are international bus services from Thailand, Vietnam, and other nearby destinations. The Friendship Bridge, connecting Nong Khai in Thailand to Vientiane, is a popular border crossing point.
  • Train: While Laos has limited rail infrastructure, there are train services from Thailand to the Nong Khai station. From there, travelers can cross the Friendship Bridge into Vientiane.
  • Mekong River Cruises: Some travelers opt for river cruises along the Mekong River, arriving in Vientiane by boat. However, this mode of transportation is less common and may involve multiple transfers.
  • Private Transportation: Taxis and private car services are available for travel within Laos or from nearby countries. Traveling by road offers flexibility and the chance to explore the scenic landscapes along the way.

Before planning a trip, it's advisable to check visa requirements, border regulations, and transportation options, as they may vary based on your point of departure. Additionally, consider factors such as travel time, convenience, and personal preferences when choosing the mode of transportation to reach Vientiane.

When is the best time to visit Vientiane?

The best time to visit Vientiane is during the cool, dry season, which typically extends from November to February. During these months, the weather is more pleasant with cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring the city's attractions.

In the cool season, daytime temperatures range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit), providing a comfortable environment for outdoor activities. This period also coincides with the festive season and important celebrations, adding cultural vibrancy to your visit.

While the cool season is generally the most popular time to visit Vientiane, it's essential to note that this is also the peak tourist season. As a result, accommodation and flights may be in higher demand, and popular attractions can be more crowded.

If you prefer to avoid crowds and are willing to tolerate warmer weather, the shoulder seasons of March to May (hot season) and June to October (rainy season) are alternatives. The hot season sees higher temperatures, while the rainy season brings occasional downpours, but both periods offer unique experiences and the opportunity to explore Vientiane with fewer tourists.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Vientiane depends on your preferences regarding weather, crowds, and the type of experiences you seek.

How much does it cost to visit Vientiane?

The cost of visiting Vientiane can vary widely based on factors such as travel preferences, accommodation choices, dining habits, and the duration of stay. Here is a general breakdown of potential expenses:

Accommodation:

  • Budget accommodations: $20 - $50 per night
  • Mid-range hotels: $50 - $100 per night
  • Luxury hotels: $100 and above per night
  • Street food and local eateries: $2 - $10 per meal
  • Mid-range restaurants: $10 - $30 per person
  • Fine dining: $30 and above per person

Transportation:

  • Local transportation (taxis, tuk-tuks): $1 - $10 per trip
  • Renting a bicycle or scooter: $5 - $20 per day
  • Domestic flights (if applicable): Costs vary based on the departure location

Attractions and Activities:

  • Entrance fees to attractions: $1 - $10 or more per person
  • Guided tours: Costs vary based on the type and duration of the tour

Visa and Travel Insurance:

  • Visa fees: Vary based on nationality and type of visa
  • Travel insurance: Costs vary; it is advisable to have comprehensive coverage

Miscellaneous:

  • SIM card and data plans: $5 - $20
  • Souvenirs and shopping: Costs vary based on personal preferences

It's important to note that these are general estimates, and actual expenses may vary. Travelers should also consider additional costs for unforeseen expenses, emergencies, and personal preferences. Researching and planning in advance, along with keeping a budget in mind, can help ensure a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Vientiane.

Uncovering the Rich Buddhist Heritage in Vientiane

Vientiane is steeped in a rich Buddhist heritage, offering visitors profound insights into the spiritual and cultural essence of Laos. The city is adorned with awe-inspiring Buddha statues that showcase the country's reverence for Buddhism.

Where can I find the most stunning Buddha statues in Vientiane?

The Buddha Park in Vientiane is a treasure trove of stunning Buddha statues, showcasing intricate designs and serene expressions. It is a testament to the significance of Buddhist art and sculpture in Laos, providing a captivating experience for enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

What is the significance of Buddha Park in Vientiane?

The Buddha Park, with its collection of over 200 Buddhist and Hindu sculptures, offers a unique opportunity to delve into the spiritual and artistic heritage of Laos. Visitors can immerse themselves in an extraordinary display of religious sculptures, each bearing its symbolic meaning and cultural significance.

Which are the most revered Buddhist temples (Wat) in Vientiane?

In Vientiane, the revered Buddhist temples, or “Wat,” such as Wat Si Muang and Wat Si Saket, stand as timeless symbols of tranquility and spiritual devotion. These temples are architectural marvels and serve as sacred sanctuaries for locals and visitors seeking solace and spiritual enrichment.

Exploring the Historical and Architectural Marvels of Vientiane

The historical and architectural marvels of Vientiane offer a captivating journey through the city's storied past and its enduring cultural significance. From historical landmarks to iconic structures, visitors can immerse themselves in Vientiane's rich tapestry of history and heritage.

What historical landmarks are worth visiting in Vientiane?

Vientiane's historical landmarks, including the Patuxai and the Presidential Palace, offer insights into the city's tumultuous past and enduring resilience. The Patuxai, with its blend of Laotian and French colonial architectural influences, stands as a poignant symbol of the city's indomitable spirit.

What cultural significance does Patuxai hold in Vientiane?

Patuxai, known as the "Victory Gate" or "Gate of Triumph," embodies the spirit of Laotian nationalism and the quest for independence. It serves as a poignant reminder of the city's enduring resilience and the aspirations of its people, making it a symbol of national pride and unity.

How can I explore the Presidential Palace and Victory Gate in Vientiane?

Exploring the Presidential Palace and Victory Gate allows visitors to gain a deeper understanding of Vientiane's historical and political significance. These landmarks offer a glimpse into the city's tumultuous past and its journey toward independence, making them essential stops for history enthusiasts and curious travelers.

Discovering the Nature and Scenic Beauty of Vientiane

Vientiane's natural splendor and scenic beauty provide a refreshing contrast to its historical and cultural attractions. From serene natural spots along the Mekong River to the tranquil surroundings of Wat Sok Pa Luang, visitors can immerse themselves in the city's captivating natural landscapes.

Where can I find serene natural spots along the Mekong River in Vientiane?

Exploring the Mekong River in Vientiane unveils serene natural spots that offer breathtaking views and tranquil settings for relaxation and contemplation. Whether it's a leisurely river cruise or a peaceful riverside stroll, the Mekong River is a source of natural beauty and serenity.

What are the must-visit locations in the quaint city of Laos?

The quaint city of Laos beckons visitors with its unspoiled charm and timeless allure. From the bustling morning market to the scenic pathways that lead to hidden gems, the city invites exploration and promises delightful discoveries for those with an adventurous spirit.

How can I explore the tranquil Wat Sok Pa Luang and its surroundings in Vientiane?

Visiting the tranquil Wat Sok Pa Luang and its serene surroundings offers a tranquil retreat from the bustle of Vientiane. Immersed in lush greenery and spiritual serenity, visitors can embark on a journey of inner peace and contemplation amidst the natural beauty of the temple grounds.

What makes Lao cuisine unique in Vientiane?

Lao cuisine in Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is unique and distinct due to a combination of factors, including its local ingredients, flavors, and cooking techniques. Here are some elements that contribute to the uniqueness of Lao cuisine in Vientiane:

Fresh and Local Ingredients:

  • Lao cuisine emphasizes the use of fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The Mekong River, which flows through Laos, provides a variety of freshwater fish that are commonly used in Lao dishes.
  • Herbs, vegetables, and aromatic plants are essential components, contributing to the vibrant flavors of Lao dishes. Common ingredients include lemongrass, galangal, kaffir lime leaves, and cilantro.

Sticky Rice (Khao Niew):

  • Sticky rice is a staple in Lao cuisine and is often considered the main food source. Unlike many other Southeast Asian countries where steamed rice is prevalent, Lao people prefer glutinous or sticky rice, which is typically eaten with the hands.

Laap (Larb):

  • Laap is a traditional Lao dish made with minced meat (often chicken, beef, or fish) mixed with herbs, lime juice, fish sauce, and ground toasted rice. It is a signature dish in Lao cuisine and is known for its refreshing and tangy flavor.

Tam Mak Houng (Green Papaya Salad):

  • This popular salad is made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, chilies, lime, and fish sauce. It offers a perfect balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, showcasing the traditional Lao taste.

Grilled and Smoked Dishes:

  • Grilling and smoking are common cooking techniques in Lao cuisine. Grilled fish, meat, and vegetables are popular, often infused with fragrant herbs and spices.

Unique Flavors:

  • Lao cuisine is known for its distinctive flavors, which are often a harmonious blend of spicy, sour, bitter, salty, and umami tastes. Fermented fish sauce and padaek (fermented fish paste) are frequently used to add depth and complexity to dishes.

Street Food Culture:

  • Vientiane has a vibrant street food culture where locals and visitors alike can experience a wide range of authentic Lao dishes. From small roadside stalls to bustling markets, the street food scene contributes significantly to the culinary identity of Vientiane.

Influence from Neighboring Countries:

  • Lao cuisine has been influenced by its neighboring countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. However, it maintains its unique characteristics, creating a fusion of flavors that sets it apart.

Overall, the combination of fresh ingredients, traditional cooking methods, and a rich cultural heritage contribute to the uniqueness of Lao cuisine in Vientiane.

What are the unique features of Wat Si Muang and Wat Si Saket, two significant temples in Vientiane, Laos?

Wat Si Muang and Wat Si Saket are two significant temples in Vientiane, Laos, each with its unique features:

Wat Si Muang:

  • Pillars of Protection: One of the distinctive features of Wat Si Muang is its belief in the protective powers of the temple. The temple is said to house the spirit of a young woman, Si Muang, who sacrificed herself during the construction of the temple to ensure its stability and protect the city. The main pillar is believed to contain her spirit, providing a sense of spiritual protection for the city and its inhabitants.
  • Blessings and Ceremonies: Wat Si Muang is a popular site for locals to make merit and seek blessings. The temple hosts various ceremonies and events throughout the year, drawing worshippers who believe in the spiritual power and protective qualities of the temple.

Wat Si Saket:

  • Architecture: Wat Si Saket is known for its unique architectural style, blending Laotian and Thai influences. It is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane, dating back to the 19th century, and features a stunning combination of Siamese and Laotian design elements.
  • Thousand Buddha Images: Wat Si Saket is famous for housing thousands of Buddha images and statues. These images are displayed in niches along the walls and in the cloisters surrounding the main hall. The collection includes both small and large Buddha statues made from various materials such as wood, stone, and bronze.
  • Cloister Wall: The temple's cloister wall is adorned with small Buddha images, creating a mesmerizing and serene atmosphere. The images are carefully arranged and provide a unique visual experience for visitors.

Both Wat Si Muang and Wat Si Saket hold cultural and religious significance in Vientiane, and they are important pilgrimage sites for locals and attractions for tourists interested in the rich history and spirituality of Laos.

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Notes on Vientiane: Riding the new railway and the gravitational pull of China

May 25, 2023 By James Clark 6 Comments

Notes on Vientiane

I visited Vientiane not long after the borders reopened in May 2022. I was there to ride the new Laos-China Railway , which had been running since December 2021 .

The last time I was in Vientiane was via train from Bangkok , and the next time I visit will probably be when the line from Thailand is extended to Vientiane. That is a lot of rail-related trips for a country that wasn’t known for its railways.

“Sleepy capital” is a phrase often used to describe Vientiane, and it felt even more so because I was here when international tourists were still trickling in. I was meeting a friend here who would join me on the train trip to Luang Prabang. The train tickets could only be bought three days in advance in person (and not online) so I went in advance before my friend arrived to buy the tickets. This also gave me an opportunity to have a wander around.

One of my favourite sights in Vientiane are the old villas in various states of disrepair.

Vientiane old villa

Vientiane appeared old and dusty on first visit in the dry season of 2010. It felt like a different place to be here during the rainy season with the grey skies.

Vientiane shophouses

I don’t come here enough to be familiar with all the buildings, but even in the time that I have been coming here I am noticing differences. I may not have noticed the old shops going missing with out seeing evidence like this.

Vientiane shophouse remnant

Many of these shops are unremarkable and not practical to live or work in, but they are usually replaced with something even less remarkable. I compiled a construction report for the city, which you can read here: Vientiane construction update – 2022 edition .

There are historic buildings that I still remember, such as The Living library.

Vientiane The Living Library

I saw a sign that showed an outline of the historic town conservation area.

Vientiane historic town conservation

The blurb suggests that the conservation area is more of a suggestion than law.

Vientiane conservation information

One thing that can be relied upon to remain the same are the many wats (buddhist temples).

Vientiane Wat Chanthaboury

The city railway ticket office is in the Vientiane Center Lao mall outside the historic area, so that was a good excuse to walk around in another part of town. Next to the mall is the Parkson Mega Mall, which started out as the World Trade Centre. There was meant to be an Intercontinental Hotel at this site, but it has been put on hold. Here is the full list of future Vientiane developments .

This mall had recently opened and it was still early in the pandemic reopening, so it was a ghost town inside.

Vientiane World Trade Centre

Most of the shops were unoccupied, but there were some signs of life. The local cafe chain JOMA has a branch here, and there was a construction sign announcing that the first Starbucks in Laos would open here (it opened in November 2022 ).

Vientiane Starbucks World Trade Centre

On this trip it was more evident how Laos is getting pulled into China’s orbit. Vietnam has always played the role of big brother for Laos, and people go to Thailand to work and shop. The new railway will bind Vientiane closer to Beijing.

Vietnam-Laos House

In the Parkson Mall there was a display for Hongqi cars .

Hongqi H9

I had never heard of them, and I was impressed that they don’t care to have an English name on their badge. I took a photo so I could look them up later, and they have an interesting history . Their name is literally “red flag”, which is a figurative 🚩 for me.

Hongqi brand

The one Chinese car company that most people have heard of by now is BYD (Build Your Dreams) , who have a more global outlook with their name. I first learned of this electric car company after seeing an advertisement with Leonardo DiCaprio in a hotel at was staying at somewhere in China. I saw a BYD dealership in my wanders.

Vientiane BYD

At the Vientiane Center Lao I saw advertising for Chinese classes, and many of the apartment projects around the city were advertised in Chinese and English.

Learn Chinese in Vientiane

Another sign of catering to the Chinese market are the UnionPay ATMs. Not all of the ATMs accept Mastercard/Visa, so I had to try my luck at a few until I found one that worked for me. I used to have a UnionPay debit card with a Hong Kong bank account but I let the account go dormant. I wish I still had it for backup. When I bought the train tickets I couldn’t use Mastercard or Visa either, only local bank transfer or UnionPay were accepted.

UnionPay

Another thing that you see more of in Chinese cities are these electric bikes. They are not quite a bicycle and not quite a scooter, but they are ideal for urban errands. It would be great if the big cities of Southeast Asia adopted bikes like this.

Electric bike

It was timely to see electric bikes and cars being sold in Vientiane, because I was in Laos in the midst of a fuel shortage . There were queues at every service station until they ran out of petrol.

Vientiane petrol shortage

This could be a catalyst for more people converting to electric bikes. This could also hasten the building of another railway.

Laos plan to build a railway from Vientiane to Vung Ang in Vietnam . That might seem like a random place to build a railway, but this is the location of a port that is 60% owned by Laos. This is the closest seaport to Laos, so the government want to build this railway to secure future fuel imports. The most recent news update said that the railway could start construction at the end of 2024. As a side benefit, it would then be possible to get a passenger train from Vientiane to Vietnam.

Fuel crisis in Laos

There are plenty of nice cafes in Vientiane , and I happened to be staying near one of the best in the city – Naked Espresso .

Vientiane Naked Espresso

No visit to Vientiane is complete without a visit to the Mekong riverfront area. Come here in the late afternoon to see it become alive with activity.

Vientiane riverside exercise

The riverfront is the best place to watch the sunset and mingle with the crowd at the night market.

Vientiane sunset by the Mekong

There are more night markets along the streets in the riverfront area. The city starts buzzing (by Laotian standards) when more people emerge from hiding from the daytime heat.

Night Market

I started and finished this trip to Laos in Vientiane, so these photos are combined from the start and end of my trip. I went by train to Luang Prabang, Muang Xai, Boten, and Vang Vieng. Here is my review of the Laos-China Railway from May 2022.

Vientiane Station

I was there when there weren’t many foreign tourists, so most of the passengers were from Laos. The railway is a point of pride in the nation, even if the amount of debt remains a mystery. I saw non-affiliated products associating themselves with the railway, and my friend reported railway t-shirts at the airport.

Vientiane advertising with train

The gravitational pull towards Beijing is now stronger with the Laos-China Railway. This might be adjusted towards Bangkok once the Bangkok – Vientiane high-speed railway opens. Then there is Vietnam’s tug of war with China over Laos , which might mean they start a direct Hanoi – Vientiane rail service if/when the Vientiane-Vung Ang Railway opens.

I said I will likely be back in Vientiane when the railway is extended from Thailand to Vientiane. I also plan to ride the Laos-China Railway the entire way from Vientiane to Kunming, so that might be another trip if I can’t schedule it together.

Vientiane City Pillar Shrine

My next stop on this trip was to Luang Prabang .

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About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

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May 25, 2023 at 12:40 pm

Had a chuckle at the Red Flag…not ideal for marketing in the West. 🙂

I always enjoyed the French food in Vientiane. Was stuck there one year much longer than expected as the Thai embassy had my passport then closed up for 8 days!

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May 26, 2023 at 12:13 am

There were a bunch of visa runners at the guest house I was staying at, though they blended in with the dudes that appeared to have gotten stuck in the city. I imagine I will need to factor in time to stay longer while waiting for a China visa.

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May 30, 2023 at 3:50 pm

Hi James, I hope you’re well. We last chatted when I was stuck in Saigon during the pandemic! I’m back here now and planning to go back to Laos at the end of this visa. Last time I was there the high speed railway was under construction so I’m now keen to ride on it. But are there better overland ways you can suggest please to get there from HCMC to either Vientiane or Luang Prabang other than a 24-hour bus via Cambodia? Or is the better option to fly? Thanks again for your help, Keith

June 1, 2023 at 12:40 am

unfortunately, there is no good overland option from HCMC to Laos. I see that Vietnam Airlines are restarting some flights to Laos, so you could check that. Another alternative is to fly to Bangkok and then get the overnight train to Nong Khai. You can then get the shuttle train to Thanaleng on the other side of the Laos border. That would at least fit in with the train travel theme for your Laos trip, and avoid a long bus trip.

June 1, 2023 at 4:21 am

Thanks James. Yes, I’ve ridden that overnight train before but probably not again – the bunks are far too short!

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July 17, 2023 at 7:16 am

I always wonder why the air tickets from Mumbai to Laos are so expensive while the tickets to Thailand, Vietnam, and Malaysia fit the budget. Laos is a country that I would love to visit and explore.

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Vientiane Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Vientiane

Discover the splendor of vientiane, immerse yourself in the richness of laos culture, savor their cuisine and artisanal products with our suggested 3 days in vientiane itinerary..

  • Updated: March 14, 2023 Alice Pham in City Highlights , Beautiful Laos , Laos Itineraries , Laos Travel Tips 2 comments.

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Best time to visit Vientiane

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Vientiane – the capital city of Laos offers visitors a mix of traditional culture, historical landmarks, and natural beauty. When planning a trip to Vientiane, it’s important to consider the weather condition carefully. The ideal time for a Vientiane package is from November to February when the weather is sunny and comfortable. During this period, the temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C, and the humidity is low, making it the perfect time to explore the city and its surroundings.

Weather in Vientiane

Weather in Vientiane

From March to May, the temperature starts to increase, and it can get quite hot. The temperature can range from 30°C to 38°C, and the humidity levels start to rise as the wet season begins in May and June. If you decide to visit Vientiane during these months, it’s important to stay hydrated and take precautions against the sun and high humidity levels.

Wet season in Vientiane begins in May and lasts until the end of October. During this time, you can expect rainfall and high humidity levels. However, if you don’t mind the rain, the wet season can be a great time to visit as the countryside is lush and green, and the waterfalls are at their fullest. The temperature during the wet season can range from 25°C to 33°C, and the humidity can be quite high.

>>> Read more: Best Time to Visit Laos

Where to Go in 3 Days in Vientiane

1. wat si saket.

Wat Si Saket

Wat Si Saket

During your visit to Vientiane, make sure to check out Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in the city. Constructed between 1819 and 1824 by Chao Anou, this impressive structure still showcases its original Thai-style architecture, complete with intricate markings and ornate details.

Though the temple has undergone two restorations, the most recent being in 1930, it has managed to maintain its unique historical significance throughout the years. Wat Si Saket provides an excellent opportunity to learn about Laotian history and culture, and should definitely be on your list of must-visit sites during your three-day stay in Vientiane.

2. Vientiane Tour to Laos National Museum

Laos National Museum is situated in a grand administrative building in Vientiane, dating back to the 1920s. It is a fascinating tourist attraction, especially for history enthusiasts, providing insights into the country’s colonial past, revolution, and its endeavor to establish a distinct identity. The museum houses a vast collection of artifacts and photographs displayed in chronological order, illustrating the country’s journey. From weapons used by the French colonizers during the war to baskets and tools utilized by the Laotian resistance, visitors can explore a wide range of exhibits showcasing Laos’ rich history and culture.

3. Wat Si Muang

Wat Si Muang

Wat Si Muang

This Buddhist temple is one of the primary sites for the That Luang Festival held in October or November, with Si Muang venerated as the city’s guardian. Every day, local Buddhists flock to this temple to seek its “good luck” powers as it is believed to have the power to grant wishes if one prays and makes a promise simultaneously. It is a popular belief that praying at this temple increases the chances of wishes being granted. However, the Wat Si Muang you see now is not the original construction built in 1563. The structure was seriously damaged by Siamese invaders in 1828 and reconstructed later.

4. Pha That Luang Stupa

Pha That Luang Stupa

Pha That Luang Stupa

Pha That Luang Stupa is a significant landmark and a symbol of the city of Vientiane. This grand structure was home to a golden stupa, built in 1566 with a height of 45 meters and a width of 69 meters in a pyramidal shape. Around it, there are up to 30 smaller stupas. Pha That Luang is designed with three levels, each representing the ascension from earth to sky. Its golden hue exudes grandeur, making it a must-visit destination for tourists spending 3 days in Vientiane.

5. Trip to Vientiane’s Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khuan)

vientiane travel blog

Buddha Park

Located 25km west of Vientiane City, Buddha Park (also known as Wat Xieng Khuan) is a must-see destination that showcases over 200 concrete statues of Buddhist and Hindu deities. The park is a sculpture enthusiast’s dream, with unique and intricate artworks that may be perceived as beautiful or unconventional, depending on individual taste. Regardless of one’s preference, the park’s collection of sculptures is an impressive sight that should not be missed during a Vientiane tour.

6. Phou Khao Khouay National Park

Phou Khao Khouay National Park

Phou Khao Khouay National Park

Phou Khao Khouay National Park is an extraordinary and unspoiled natural wonderland that boasts breathtaking views of mountains, sandstone cliffs, and picturesque rivers with gorges carved into them. Wild orchids and cascading waterfalls add to the park’s charm, making it an ideal place for nature lovers to visit. This park is also an opportunity to explore the traditional way of life, culture, and handicrafts of ethnic minorities such as Hmong and Lao Tay, who live in charming villages scattered throughout the park.

7. Patuxai Victory Gate

Vientiane Classic Tour 3 Days

Patuxai Victoria Gate

Patuxai Victory Gate is a significant monument in the spiritual life of Laos and is also known as the Victory Gate. Its design is similar to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, giving Vientiane a touch of Parisian charm. This destination is a popular tourist spot where visitors can climb to the top of the gate for a breathtaking view of the city. At the base of the monument, visitors can explore the intricate designs and intricate carvings on the walls, which depict the country’s history and culture. The Patuxai Victory Gate is a must-visit destination during your trip to Vientiane.

8. Vientiane Tour to Morning Market (Talat Sao)

Vientiane Morning Market

Vientiane Morning Market

Vientiane Morning Market (Talat Sao) was once a bustling traditional market and has now transformed into a shopping destination consisting of two malls and a market. It is still a popular spot to purchase traditional Lao skirts and fabrics, as well as unique souvenirs like snake whiskey and wooden boxes.

9. Nam Ngum Lake

Nam Ngum Lake

Nam Ngum Lake

Constructed in 1971, the Nam Ngum Lake obstructs the Nam Ngum River, a major Mekong tributary, and is now the largest lake in Laos, spanning approximately 370 square kilometers. This hydro-electric project, which includes a 70-meter high and 468-meter wide dam, generates the majority of the country’s electricity and even exports excess power to Thailand.

Nam Ngum Lake features sandy beaches and islands, including Don 516, which houses around 500 permanent residents. While basic accommodations can be found along the shoreline, the Dansavanh Nam Ngum Resort is a notable exception, offering a golf course and 24-hour casino and attracting senior government officials from Laos and Thailand.

What to Eat during 3 Days in Vientiane

Laos papaya salad.

Laos Papaya Salad

Laos Papaya Salad

Papaya Salad, also known as Tum Maak Hoong, is a beloved spicy salad in Laotian Cuisine. The name “Tum” comes from the process of pounding the unripe, shredded papaya and other ingredients in a mortar with a pestle, while “Mak Hoong” refers to the papaya fruit. Unripe papaya gives the salad a crunchy texture, and the combination of spicy, salty, sweet, and sour flavors creates a satisfying experience for your taste buds. The salad typically includes ingredients such as chilies, garlic, cherry tomatoes, lime, sugar, and fish sauce. Some variations may include slices of Thai eggplant and long beans for extra crunch.

Larb (minced meat salad)

Larb

Larb or Laap, the unofficial national dish of Laos, is a traditional minced meat salad prepared in different regions where Laotian people live. What makes this dish special is its fresh taste, despite the usually heavy minced meat. The balance of lime juice, lemongrass, lettuce, and coriander creates a perfect harmony. Larb can be served with lettuce leaves or sticky rice.

Mok Pa (steamed fish in banana leaves)

Mok Pa

Mok Pa is also a must-try dish during your 3 days in Laos. This is a kind of traditional steamed fish wrapped in fresh banana leaves. Unlike Chinese steamed fish, which is cooked in a sauce, Lao fish parcels are made by mixing diced fish fillets with herbs, seasonings, and fermented fish paste called padaek. This helps to give the dish a unique umami flavor. The mixture is then portioned and wrapped in banana leaves before being steam cooked. Mok Pa is usually served with sticky rice, known as khao niao.

Suggested 3 Days in Vientiane Itineraries

It is not so difficult to plan your 3 days in Vientiane itinerary. On the first day, spend time visiting this city’s historical and cultural monuments such as Wat Sisaket, Pha That Luang Stupa, Buddha Park, etc. Join a night market to see how bustling this city is.

A trip to Nam Ngum Lake is highly recommended on the second day. This is the largest lake in Laos with sandy beaches and islands. From here, you head to Ban Keun to learn the local method of rice wine whiskey distillation.

Before checking out on the third day, you should come accross this city’s Morning Market for Laos souvenirs and specialties.

>>> Here is the detailed itinerary for this Vientiane 3 Days Classic Tour .

Visitors to Vientiane often extends their holidays to other scenic spots in Laos such as Luang Prabang, Xieng Khouang, Pakse, etc. or to the neighbor capitals such as Hanoi (Vietnam) or Bangkok (Thailand) to make up 10 – 15 day trips. This is a perfect way to gain a deeper glimpse into the culture and nature of Indochinese countries. Below are some suggestions for your Laos tours:

  • Classic Package Tour in Laos for 10 Days
  • Heritage of Vietnam, Laos and Thailand in 15 Days

How to Plan a Trip to Vientiane

Planning to go on a Vientiane tour, it is necessary to know when & where to go, what to eat & bring, etc. For the detailed information, you can check our Laos travel guide . Here are some tips to help you prepare a perfect holiday in Vientiane:

  • Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid passport, passport-sized photos, travel insurance, visa, and enough money for import/export fees and visa fees.
  • Research Laos cultural norms to avoid culture shock. Follow some important Dos and Don’ts, such as dressing neatly at religious places, asking permission before taking photos with locals or stepping over someone in your path, taking off your shoes before entering any Laotian home, not touching a monk, monk’s robe, or someone’s head, not raising your voice in public, and not showing public displays of affection or wearing swimsuits/bikinis in public.
  • Pack according to the season, including summer gear like T-shirts and shorts, comfortable footwear, formal clothes for special places, warm clothes for December and January, lightweight raincoats for the wet season, and other personal items such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, insect repellent, toiletries, a small medical kit or your own medications, refillable water bottle, earplugs, a universal travel adaptor, and a backpack for day trips.
  • Keep your personal belongings safe in public, and carry copies of your personal documents for safety.
  • Make early service reservations before your trip in peak season to avoid any fully-booked status or lower quality than expected.

Hope this piece of information helpful to you while planning your Vientiane 3 days trip. Contact us if you still need help or a private consultation.

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vientiane travel blog

Hello, I'm Alice Pham - a travel blogger at IDC Travel. I have traveled to almost places in Vietnam and gained numerous useful experiences. I'm here willing to help you plan the most wonderful trip to our stunning S-shaped country.

Comments(2)

We are a family of 5 people planning to visit Laos in January 2024. What are the best places to visit in this country?

Hi Machelle, The most beautiful destinations in Laos are Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, the Plain of Jars, Wat Phou, etc. If you like adventurous activities, consider the Kuang Si Falls and 4000 Islands. Laos is a family-friendly country with welcoming people and thrilling activities to join. However, always remember to pack your essentials when visiting this country. You can refer to our well-crafted Laos tours for some itinerary suggestions. Or, contact us for a tailor-made tour program so that you can enjoy the best of Laos with ease. Thank you so much for reaching out to us! Best regards, Alice Pham.

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12 Things To Do In Vientiane

Things To Do In Vientiane

Things To Do In Vientiane

Here are the best things to do, see, eat, and buy when you’re in Vientiane. Laos is a landlocked country but famous for its mountains and the Mekong River flowing through it creating a beautiful natural landscape that attracts tourists. Vientiane capital is among the popular destinations when Laos is on the travelers’ list of choice. Not like a bustling central hub, Vientiane offers fresh air, relaxed and serene vibe which make it such a lovable capital, but still, there is much more to do here than you think.

Check out the best list of things to do for your travel plan to Vientiane with Laos Travel team and enjoy your fun experience!

Attend the unique Alms – giving ceremony (Tak Bat)

Visit the morning market, reach the top of patuxai victory monument, visit the most famous and sacred temples, learn more about history, culture and lao people through museums, visit xieng khuan, explore the national ethnic cultural park, go on a cycling tour, join in a cooking class, take a stroll along the beautiful mekong waterfront at dusk, try local food & drinks, wander at vientiane night market, go for a massage and herbal sauna.

Alms Giving Ceremony

Taking Alms Giving Ceremony in the early morning will be one of the most interesting activites that you can have in Vientiane.

As the country of Buddhism, there are many pagodas and temples in Laos. You can easily see their culture connecting to Buddhism, and one of these is alms giving ceremony (Tak Bat) which only takes place at dawn when the monks get out of their temples to collect offerings from local people. Joining this activity will be one of the most interesting experiences that you have in Vientiane. To attend the ceremony, you need to wake up early (5am-6.00am), dress appropriately, prepare offerings and wait for monks on the streets.

The ritual will be done in silence, respect and Laotians will make a short pray before putting food into the monk’s bowl. Later, these offerings will be shared for themselves, poor people, other monks and animals at the temples. The monks only have one meal per day.

Visit the Morning Market, where you can buy souvenirs, handicrafts, and fresh produce.  Vientiane Morning Market (Talat Sao), the best place to experience the vibrant culture and shopping scene of Laos’ capital city. Whether you are looking for traditional handicrafts, exquisite silk fabrics, exotic snake whiskey, or sparkling jewelry, you will find them all at this bustling market that opens every day from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm. You can explore the market on your own or with a local guide who can help you bargain and find the best deals. No entrance fee is required, so feel free to browse and enjoy the sights and sounds of this lively market. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the authentic and diverse products of Laos at Vientiane Morning Market.

Patuxai

Known as Victory Gate, Patuxai is one of the most important monuments in Vientiane, dedicating to those who fought in the struggle for independence from France.

Nestled in the center of Vientiane, Patuxai Victory Monument – part of the wider Patuxai Park – is one of the best known landmarks of the capital, dedicating to all citizens of Laos who gave their lives for the country in different wars. It was designed to resemble the Arc de Triomphe in Paris in combination with tastes of traditional Laotian to create an East meets West kind of attraction. Instead of using elevator, climbing a set of stair to the top to enjoy the panoramic view of the city and main boulevard will be worth for your effort.

You can combine visiting Patuxai Victory Monument and seeing most famous temples in Vientiane in the same morning. Refer to the following suggested morning schedule:

Morning in Vientiane:

  • Visit Wat Si Saket , a Buddhist temple complex that is one of the oldest and most important in Vientiane.
  • Take a walk around the Patuxai , a war monument dedicated to those who fought for independence from France.
  • Visit the Pha That Luang , a golden stupa that is considered the most important national monument in Laos.

Pha That Luang Stupa

Phra That Luang

Phra That Luang Stupa – a national symbol of Laos.

Considered as a world cultural heritage, Pha That Luang stands as a national symbol which is printed on both paper money and the country’s emblem. It was fully built in 1566 with the style of Laos with gold covered which is brighter and more splendid under the sunshine. The stupa is believed to contain a breastbone of the Buddha. In middle November of each year, a national level festival will be held which attracts numerous people across the country to attend.

Wat Ho Phra Keo

Wat Ho Phra Keo

Haw Phra Kaew (Ho Phra Keo) is Laos’ leading museum of religious art with its name taken from Emerald Buddha, a statue carved from a single piece of jade that is now preserved in Bangkok.

The sacred and noble Wat Phra Keo is important only after Pha That Luang. Original built in 1565 to house the Emerald Buddha, but now it serves a museum for the religious arts of Laos. There are many precious sculptures in stone, bronze, gold which make you feel to walk in the peaceful fairyland with many jewels.

Wat Si Saket

Wat Si Saket

Wat Si Saket is the oldest temple of the town that is still in its original form.

Just cross the street from Wat Phra Keo locates Wat Si Saket which is a truly remarkable one. Built in 1818, this temple is still preserved since its date of construction with the unique Siamese style, rather than Laos. There are numerous Buddha statues up to nearly 7,000 in the temple which are cast in various materials such as bronze, ceramic, precious wood and gilded, plated with iridescent silver.

This is also the place where the locals give their offerings to the monks in their daily morning alms giving ceremony.

Wat Si Muang

Wat Si Muang

Wat Si Muang is considered the home of the guardian spirit of Vientiane.

Wat Si Muang is considered the home of the guardian spirit of Vientiane. Built in 1563, the legend has it that the wat was named after the death of Si Muang who sacrificed herself on the foundations of the wat to appease angry gods, and the center of town is now marked from the pillar built on top of that sacrifice.

Lao National Museum

Lao National Museum

Lao National Museum is home to more than 850 artifacts from the nation’s heritage, culture, and history.

In October 2020, the Lao National Museum officially opened at its new location of Sivilay Village, Xaythany District, near the Kaysone Phomvihane Museum. This building replaces the original one which was built in 1925 as the French governor’s residence on Samsenthai Road in central Vientiane.

The exhibits at the museum cover more than 850 artifacts from the nation’s heritage, culture, and history, including some ancient pieces such as fossils, stone tools, stone images of Buddha, human skeletons, pottery and bronzeware, and other items typical of Lao ethnic lifestyles. The new museum building is open from Monday to Friday.

Kaysone Phomvihane Museum

Kaysone Phomvihane Museum

Opened on 13 Dec 1995, Kaysone Phomvihane Museum is a memorial named after the first leader of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party.

Opened in 1995 to celebrate the late president’s 75th birthday, the Kaysone Phomvihane Museum serves as a tribute to the first leader of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party. There are a number of galleries containing information, artifacts, his statues in bronze that tell the story of Kaysone’s life. You can even find a model of his home as a child, his desk from the French school and a model of the cave he hid inside in Hua Phan Province.

Lao Textile Museum

Lao Textile Museum

The Lao Textile Museum claims to be the first privately-owned museum in Laos and its purpose is to promote the traditional assets of textile culture in the country.

The Lao Textile Museum is set in a beautiful traditional family property, containing a private collection of antique textiles, clackety old looms and spinners, lots of displays about tribal variations, the meaning of designs as well as the dyeing and weaving process.

If you want to get hands on, you can take a textile painting class. The museum also has a small studio where silk pieces are woven for purchase at the museum’s shop. This is a suitable place for those looking for an insight into authentic Laos.

COPE Visitor Center

COPE Visitor Center

The COPE Visitor Centre Vientiane is a small museum and charity for victims of the bombings in Laos.

Visit the COPE Visitor Centre, a museum that tells the story of the victims of unexploded ordnance in Laos. The COPE Visitor Center is a mini museum, rehab clinic and NGO that highlights the work done by COPE Laos, a center focuses on supporting bomb victims during the war from 1964 to 1973. The center provides locals free access to prostheses, wheelchairs and physical therapy to improve the quality of life for bomb-affected citizens.

Here, you can browse the exhibitions, watch documentaries, participate in hands-on activities …The entrance is free but donation is appreciated to support COPE’s exceptional work.

Visit Xieng Khuan

Known as Buddha Park, Xieng Khuan is about 25km from the capital Vientiane and is home to more than 200 religious statues.

Constructed in 1958 and also known as Buddha Park, Xieng Khuan is about 25 kilometers outside Vientiane, covering more than 200 religious statues in both Hindu and Buddhist sculpture which are scattered all over the lush grounds. A 40m long giant reclining Buddha statue is the most prominent statue here. Another highlights are images of gods, demons, people, animals and the 3 layers of hell, earth and heaven.

National Ethnic Cultural Park

The National Ethnic Cultural Park is located 20 kilometers south from Vientiane near the Friendship Bridge.

Not far from Buddha Park (about 8km) is the National Ethnic Cultural Park which is known for having models of traditional houses that represent all the different ethnic groups in Laos as well as some statues of dinosaurs and small zoo here. Cultural shows are also occasionally held here. You can combine this attraction with Buddha Park to make a day out in Vientiane.

cycling tour in laos

Biking is one of the best ways to discover the hidden places of Vientiane and save budget.

Biking is one of the best ways to explore the region and discover the hidden places, encounter new cultures and experience the nature on two wheels. This kind of tour becomes more popular today. You can choose half or full day with local guide for touring around the city to villages, temples and markets. You can also cycle along the banks of the scenic Mekong River as another way to check out the city as well as get a workout in at the same time.

cooking class

Explore the secrets of Laos cuisine by taking a cooking class in Vientiane.

Learning how to cook typical cuisine of destination that you travel to is always a great experience. To join a traditional cooking class, you will be taken to the local market where you can pick the fresh ingredients and herbs for your meal. Then the professional chef will show you how to cook a bunch of dishes. After finishing the dish on your own, it is time for you to sit down and taste what you have just done. If you whip up fancy Lao meals, let’s try to practice and invite your friends to taste when you are back home.

Naga Boats vientiane laos

Taking Naga Boats that carry passengers downriver into the sunset, that is worth your try.

By the end of the day, the waterfront alongside the Mekong River becomes a hub of activity for Laotians when people come to stroll, watch fishing nets being cast, listen to the music of the aerobic class and watch the sunset over the Mekong River. There are various opportunities to view the sunset from different vantage points such as taking Naga Boats that carry passengers downriver into the sunset or sitting at the restaurants alongside the river.

Beerlao

Beerlao was launched in 1973 and has become the best selling and leading brand in Laos.

If you’re a foodie then Vientiane is a gateway to popular and delicious Laotian food. While you are in this national capital, there are some specialties that you should try, such as Lao sausage with two main types of pork sausage which go well with beer: Sui oua (fatty pork mixed with spices) and Sai krok (different from Sui oua that is is fermented for a few days, which gives it a sweet and tangy taste); sticky rice; crickets, grasshoppers and other insects; Mekong catfish; Khai Look (fetal duck or chicken egg); Khao piak (rice noodle soup); Larb (meat salad)…

A bottle of iced cold Beerlao should not be missed here. Other drink types such as fresh fruit, lots of flavors, and soy milk are available too. You can easily dine these specialties at local restaurants or street food stalls around.

Combining with watching sunset over Mekong River, you can pass by Vientiane Night Market nearby.

vientiane night market

A vibrant and colorful night market in Vientiane.

By 5pm every evening, hundreds of red awnings are set up to get this riverside night market into operation until 10pm. Here, you can find a range of items such as clothes, textiles, accessories, handicrafts, paintings and myriad souvenirs. There is also a playground with swings, monkey bars, slides for children in the middle of the market.

Unlike other night markets, there is no food sold here, but you can find plenty of street food vendors and restaurants around the market.

Herbal and massage

End of your day with a massage and herbal sauna will definitely be great.

Relaxing after a day outside in Vientiane with a massage and herbal sauna, it will definitely be great. Known for the local massage technique which uses herbal sauna and steam rooms, local plants and herbs are boiled in a traditional Laotian bathhouse in a sealed room to create a steamy environment. Then a relaxing massage is followed. Your day will end perfectly by this way with better sleep and ready for another new day awaiting ahead.

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Vientiane Travel Guide

by James Asquith 10 Oct 2023 Asia , Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, beckons with its enchanting charm, offering a window into the nation’s captivating history and vibrant culture. For those planning a journey to Vientiane, let’s delve into what this city has in store.

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vientiane travel blog

Nestled along the banks of the majestic Mekong River, Vientiane is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new. Its colonial architecture, golden temples, and bustling markets tell tales of its rich past, while modern cafes and a laid-back atmosphere reveal the city’s contemporary side. Vientiane invites you to explore its streets and discover the delightful fusion of traditions and modernity.

Aerial View On Laos

Aerial View of Vientiane

A Glimpse into History: Vientiane’s history is a captivating tapestry that weaves back to the 9th century. Throughout its existence, the city has been influenced by various civilizations, notably the Khmer and French. A must-visit historical gem is the Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan . This site boasts over 200 religious sculptures, including a colossal reclining Buddha, showcasing the country’s religious diversity.

Immersing in Culture: Vientiane seamlessly melds tradition with modernity, and one of the best ways to experience local culture is by exploring the night markets. These bustling markets offer a delightful array of street food, handicrafts, and clothing. Savor local delights such as sticky rice and papaya salad. Additionally, don’t miss the chance to explore the city’s thriving arts and crafts scene, where you’ll encounter intricate woodcarvings, weaving, and pottery.

Gateway to Adventure: Vientiane serves as a convenient launchpad for further adventures. If you’re keen to explore more of Laos, the breathtaking town of Vang Vieng awaits a few hours to the north. Known for its stunning limestone karst landscape and adrenaline-pumping activities like tubing and rock climbing, Vang Vieng is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Easy Access: Vientiane enjoys excellent connectivity to popular destinations in Laos and neighboring countries. If you plan to explore beyond the capital, Vientiane’s Wattay International Airport offers flights to major cities across Southeast Asia. For those crossing into Thailand, the nearby border town of Nong Khai is known for its Friendship Bridge, linking Laos and Thailand.

Monumental History: A notable landmark in Vientiane is the Arc De Triomphe, a striking monument commemorating the struggle for independence from French colonial rule. This grand monument, reminiscent of Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, treats visitors to panoramic city views from its rooftop terrace.

Patouxai - Arc De Triomphe

Patouxai – Arc De Triomphe

These insights offer just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Vientiane’s history and culture. The city promises an abundance of discoveries for every traveler.

Discovering Vientiane’s Must-See Landmarks and Sights

Vientiane, the vibrant capital and largest city of Laos, beckons travelers with its captivating history and lively culture. Exploring the city’s top attractions is a must for anyone seeking a memorable journey. Situated in the heart of Vientiane, the City Centre serves as an ideal starting point for your adventure. Here, you’ll encounter a bustling blend of traditional markets and modern shopping malls, offering a chance to immerse yourself in the local way of life. Iconic Landmarks: Vientiane boasts several must-visit landmarks that leave a lasting impression. One such gem is That Luang, a magnificent golden stupa regarded as Laos’ national symbol. This awe-inspiring structure traces its origins back to the 3rd century and holds immense significance for Buddhists. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Wat Si Saket, Vientiane’s oldest surviving temple, home to thousands of Buddha statues.

vientiane travel blog

Wat Si Saket

Riverside Serenity: To experience the city’s cosmopolitan flair, make your way to the Mekong Riverside. Here, you’ll savor stunning vistas of the river and witness mesmerizing sunsets. For an intriguing day trip, a short drive from Vientiane leads to Udon Thani, a lively city in neighboring Thailand with its distinct charm.

A Destination for All: Whether your interests lie in history, culture, or simply exploring new horizons, Vientiane extends a warm welcome. With its remarkable landmarks and sights, the city guarantees an unforgettable travel odyssey. So, grab your travel guide and embark on a journey to Vientiane, where adventure beckons!

Discovering Vientiane’s Hidden Treasures: Off-the-Beaten-Path Delights

Vientiane, Laos’ capital city, may not have the fame of some Southeast Asian counterparts, but it boasts a trove of hidden gems awaiting your exploration. Beyond the well-trodden tourist path, Vientiane’s heart conceals tucked-away wonders that offer unique glimpses into local culture. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature admirer, or a culinary adventurer, these hidden treasures in Vientiane hold something special for everyone.

Asian City, A Hidden Oasis: One such marvel is Asian City, an animated district where modernity and tradition coexist harmoniously in shops, eateries, and cafes. Stroll through its labyrinthine lanes to unearth locally-owned boutiques vending traditional crafts. Pause for a moment at a trendy café, savoring a cup of freshly brewed coffee. Asian City reveals a different facet of Vientiane, distanced from the bustling tourist circuits. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local vibe and lend your support to small businesses.

Local Market

Local Market

Travel Smart with Insurance: For travelers planning a visit to Vientiane, securing travel insurance is paramount. Laos, while generally safe, can sometimes spring unexpected surprises. Having travel insurance assures peace of mind during your journey. Furthermore, if you’re arriving from another city or country, consider domestic flights to access Vientiane. Convenient flights from nearby destinations, like Phnom Penh, offer time and energy savings.

Hidden Oasis: Chao Anouvong Park Once you’ve landed in Vientiane, embark on a quest to uncover the city’s well-guarded gems. Among these is Chao Anouvong Park, a tranquil riverside sanctuary adorned with exquisite sculptures and lush greenery. This serene haven enriches your travel experience, introducing you to Vientiane’s lesser-known treasures.

Chao Anouvong Park

Chao Anouvong Park

These hidden gems are your gateway to a Vientiane less explored, promising enchantment for all who seek the road less traveled.

Savoring Vientiane’s Culinary Treasures: A Food Enthusiast’s Handbook

Vientiane, Laos’ capital, might not have the global food fame of Bangkok or Kuala Lumpur, but it boasts a distinctive food scene that will captivate any gastronome. From the moment you touch down at Wattay Airport and step into the city, your senses will be tantalized by a delectable array of local dishes, leaving you yearning for more.

A Feast on Chao Anou Road: For a delectable culinary journey, look no further than Chao Anou Road. This bustling street is a gastronomic haven, adorned with food stalls and eateries offering a wide spectrum of traditional Laotian cuisine. From fragrant noodle soups like Khao Piek Sen to mouthwatering stir-fried meats like Mok Pa, there’s a dish to satisfy every palate. Be sure to indulge in Khai Pan, a beloved Laotian snack featuring grilled riverweed seasoned with zesty chili paste and sesame seeds. For the ultimate food adventure, explore the evening street food stalls, where you can relish succulent grilled meats, skewers, and other local delights.

Laotian Food

Laotian Food

Elevate Your Taste Buds: If you’re up for a culinary thrill, Vientiane offers unique dining experiences that will transport your taste buds. Sample Lao-Japanese fusion cuisine at one of the city’s trendy restaurants, where traditional Laotian ingredients meld seamlessly with Japanese culinary artistry. For a more adventurous twist, consider taking an overnight train to Khon Kaen in Thailand. There, you can dive into vibrant night markets and savor an enticing array of Thai dishes that will leave you yearning for seconds.

Experiencing Vientiane’s vibrant markets: Where to shop for local goods

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, isn’t just a haven for history and culture; it’s also a treasure trove of vibrant markets where visitors can dive into the local shopping scene. Whether you’re on the hunt for handcrafted treasures, memorable souvenirs, or delectable street eats, Vientiane’s markets offer something special for everyone.

Rainy Season Revelry From May to October, during the rainy season, Vientiane’s markets come alive with bustling activity. This is the prime time to delve into local offerings and soak in the lively ambiance. Among the must-visit markets is the Talat Sao Market, located in the heart of the city’s Chanthabouly District. Here, you’ll discover a diverse array of products, ranging from clothing and accessories to electronics and household goods. And don’t miss the opportunity to savor mouthwatering street delicacies as you meander through the market stalls; it’s a delightful highlight of the Vientiane shopping experience.

Vientiane-Night-Market

Vientiane Night Market

Elegant Shopping Retreat If you’re in the mood for a more refined shopping escapade, make your way to the Salana Boutique Hotel’s night market. This market stands out for its top-notch handicrafts, textiles, and artwork, making it an ideal spot to unearth one-of-a-kind souvenirs to carry back home. Situated in the city center, the Salana Boutique Hotel’s night market offers convenient access and a tranquil shopping environment. After you’ve explored the market’s treasures, consider visiting nearby attractions, such as the awe-inspiring Haw Phra Kaew temple, celebrated for its breathtaking architecture and intricate adornments.

Salana Boutique Hotel's Night Market

Salana Boutique Hotel’s Night Market

Getting around Vientiane: Transportation and Accommodation Options

Vientiane, Laos’ capital, beckons with a tapestry of transportation options to enrich your exploration of this enchanting city and its environs. Whether you touch down at Wattay International Airport or ride the rails from Thailand, Vientiane unveils various ways to traverse its wonders.

By Air: Flying in? Crowne Plaza Vientiane, strategically nestled a stone’s throw from Wattay International Airport, offers convenience and luxury. Lao Airlines weaves a well-connected web of domestic and international flights, making Vientiane easily accessible. Post-landing, a fleet of taxis awaits, ensuring a seamless journey to your abode.

Scenic Train Jaunts: For the intrepid, an enchanting experience awaits. The newly minted Thanaleng Station, just beyond the city’s edge, offers a rail link to Thailand, cherished by those journeying from Bangkok. It’s a unique Thai-Lao border crossing. From Thanaleng Station, arranging a taxi or shuttle to Vientiane is a breeze.

Exploring Within: Within the city, Talat Sao, the bustling central market, serves as a transport hub teeming with options for city exploration. Iconic three-wheeled tuk-tuks stand ready at affordable rates. They’ll whisk you away to cherished tourist spots like That Luang, Buddha Park, and the COPE Visitor Center.

Riverside Serenity: For those yearning to explore Vientiane’s outskirts, consider shuttle trains that meander beside the majestic Mekong River. These trains marry comfort and spectacular vistas, ideal for reaching destinations like Buddha Park and the Friendship Bridge.

Weather Watch: Mind the weather when planning your Vientiane sojourn. The wet season, usually from May to October, may bring heavy rains affecting transportation. Prepare for potential delays or disruptions.

Where to stay: When it comes to accommodations in Vientiane, consider Holiday Swap as your go-to platform. Offering a diverse range of properties, from cozy apartments to luxurious hotels, it ensures you’ll find the perfect stay to suit your preferences. So, not only will your journey through the city be a delight, but your place of rest will be equally enchant

Immersing in Vientiane’s religious heritage: Temples and spiritual sites

Vientiane is renowned for its rich religious heritage, boasting numerous temples and spiritual sites. For visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the city’s spiritual ambiance, there are several key locations to explore.

Mekong Riverside Park: The Mekong Riverside Park, nestled along the banks of the majestic Mekong River, offers a serene experience. Here, you can enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the serene beauty of the river and its surroundings. The park is also home to the famous statue of the Emerald Buddha, symbolizing peace and prosperity. Its vibrant colors and intricate details make it a sight to behold and a great spot for capturing memorable photographs.

Mekong Riverside Park

Mekong Riverside Park

Pha That Luang – The Great Stupa: Pha That Luang, also known as the Great Stupa, stands as a testament to Laos’ strong Buddhist heritage. Believed to house relics of the Buddha, this magnificent golden monument holds great significance to the locals and is an important pilgrimage destination. Visitors can explore the grand architecture, admire the intricate carvings, and even partake in the daily rituals performed by devout worshippers.

Pha That Luang

Pha That Luang

Buddha Park: For those interested in a unique spiritual experience, the Buddha Park, located just outside the city, is a must-visit. This unconventional site is adorned with over 200 concrete sculptures depicting various Buddhist and Hindu deities. Created by a visionary monk, the park showcases a fusion of religious art from Laos, South Korea, and other Asian countries. Exploring the tranquil grounds surrounded by peaceful landscapes offers a contemplative and thought-provoking experience.

Xieng Khuan - Buddha park

Xieng Khuan – Buddha park

Vientiane’s temples and spiritual sites provide a fascinating insight into the city’s spiritual heritage. Whether it’s relaxing by the Mekong River, marveling at the Emerald Buddha, or exploring the diverse sculptures at the Buddha Park, travelers can immerse themselves in the serene atmosphere and gain a deeper understanding of the spiritual traditions that have shaped Vientiane over the centuries.

Enjoying Vientiane’s natural beauty: Parks, gardens, and riverside spots

Vientiane offers a tranquil and picturesque experience for nature enthusiasts, with its beautiful parks, gardens, and riverside spots. Whether you seek a peaceful stroll, a family picnic, or a serene escape from city life, Vientiane has something for everyone. You will discover serene escapes that offer both natural beauty and historical insights. Ban Haysoke, a picturesque riverside area, grants breathtaking views of the Mekong River. A leisurely walk along the riverbank allows you to relish the cool breeze while admiring the stunning landscape.

Nearby, Muang Xay Park awaits with its lush greenery and vibrant flowers, providing an ideal setting for a morning jog, yoga session, or a peaceful picnic with loved ones. Meanwhile, Chao Anouvong Park, dedicated to Laos’ last king, beckons with its grand statue and tranquil surroundings, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. These delightful retreats provide moments of both relaxation and reflection amid Vientiane’s charm.

To enhance your exploration of Vientiane’s natural beauty, the city provides various transportation options. City buses, with routes connecting major attractions and parks, offer a convenient means of getting around. The Central Bus Station serves as the primary hub, facilitating easy access to different parts of the city. If you plan to explore the northern part of Vientiane, the Northern Bus Station is your ideal starting point. For those interested in venturing beyond the city limits, Sao Bus Station serves as the gateway to day trips and excursions. With these accessible transportation choices, navigating Vientiane and savoring its natural wonders is a delightful journey.

Understanding Vientiane’s traditional arts and crafts: Local craftsmanship

Vientiane’s cultural richness is woven with the threads of local craftsmanship, a testament to the talent and dedication of the Lao people. Visitors to the city have the unique opportunity to witness and appreciate the artistry of traditional crafts, cherished and passed down through generations.

Southern Bus Station: A standout destination for delving into Vientiane’s local craftsmanship is the Southern Bus Station. Here, travelers are welcomed into a world of handmade treasures. Woven textiles, intricate wood carvings, and exquisite silverware are just a glimpse of the offerings awaiting discovery. Beyond a place for souvenir shopping, it’s a unique opportunity to witness skilled artisans in action, breathing life into their creations.

The Phnom Penh-Lao Border:  For the adventurous at heart, the Phnom Penh-Lao Border beckons, offering a captivating chance to explore local craftsmanship extending beyond Vientiane’s borders. The border process at the Cambodian Border Post unveils a glimpse into the vibrant cultural exchange between Laos and Cambodia. With the help of travel agents, arrangements can be crafted to visit the Lao-Cambodian Border, where a treasure trove of handcrafted goods awaits discovery. Traditional fabrics, intricately carved statues, and delicate pottery are among the treasures waiting to be uncovered. This immersive experience with local craftsmanship not only allows visitors to support skilled artisans but also provides a window into the rich cultural heritage shared by these neighboring nations.

Discovering Vientiane’s festivals and events: Cultural celebrations throughout the year

Vientiane, a city brimming with culture as the capital of Laos, hosts a diverse range of festivals and events throughout the year. Whether you’re eager to immerse yourself in local traditions or simply want to savor the lively atmosphere, it’s worth aligning your trip with these cultural celebrations. Soutchai Travel, a reputable local travel agency, recommends the following festivals and events in Vientiane:

Udon Airport Terminal Festival (January): In January, the Udon Airport Terminal comes alive with this festival, offering a glimpse into Vientiane’s rich cultural heritage. Traditional music, captivating dance performances, and delectable local cuisine take center stage. It’s a wonderful opportunity to savor the local customs and traditions.

Nongbone Road Street Party (April): The lively Nongbone Road transforms into a vibrant street party in April, drawing locals and tourists alike. Live music performances and an array of street stalls serving mouthwatering food and showcasing handicrafts create an eclectic atmosphere. Visitors can revel in the energetic ambiance while mingling with friendly locals.

Asiane Road Night Market (Open Year-round): Offering a unique shopping experience all year round, the Asiane Road Night Market is a must-visit in Vientiane. Here, you’ll discover a wide array of clothing, accessories, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Bargaining is part of the experience, so sharpen your negotiation skills for the best deals. The market also boasts local street food stalls where you can relish Lao delicacies like sticky rice, grilled meats, and spicy papaya salad.

Talat Sao Morning Market (Open Year-round): Situated in the heart of Vientiane on Khou Vieng Road, the Talat Sao Morning Market is a bustling hub, open from early morning until midday. Here, you’ll find an eclectic mix of goods, from fresh produce and local snacks to clothing, electronics, and traditional crafts. It provides a valuable insight into Vientiane’s everyday life and offers a glimpse into the local culture.

colorful-art-products-and-wallets

Colorful Woven Products and Wallets

These are just a few of the festivals and events awaiting discovery during your Vientiane visit. Remember to check the dates of these celebrations and plan your itinerary accordingly to fully immerse yourself in this cultural tapestry.

Unwinding in Vientiane’s leisure and wellness spots

In the vibrant tapestry of Vientiane, discovering an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation is essential. Fortunately, Vientiane boasts an array of leisure and wellness havens, providing a respite from the city’s hustle and bustle. Whether your desire is a soothing massage, a revitalizing facial, or a serene environment to unwind, Vientiane has an answer.

Ensuring Smooth Entry: Before immersing yourself in Vientiane’s spa and relaxation offerings, it’s crucial to handle your documentation. As you enter Laos, securing your entry stamp at the Thai immigration office is essential. If your journey takes you across the Friendship Bridge, acquaint yourself with the border’s immigration fees and regulations in advance to avoid any surprises.

Understanding Thai Immigration: For travelers planning to unwind in Vientiane after exploring Thailand, it’s vital to be aware of Thailand’s immigration rules. Multiple entries into Thailand within a specified period have limitations. Familiarizing yourself with these regulations will enable you to plan your visit to Vientiane accordingly.

Culinary Delights and Wellness Fusion: Vientiane caters to food enthusiasts seeking a harmonious blend of relaxation and gastronomy. Discover wellness spots that not only offer delightful meals but also prioritize your well-being. Whether it’s a health-conscious salad bar or a cozy café serving organic treats, you can savor local flavors while nurturing your mind and body.

A Gourmet’s Guide: If you’re a connoisseur eager to explore Vientiane’s culinary landscape, be sure to include visits to wellness spots that craft healthy and delectable food options. These establishments strike a perfect balance between indulgence and wellness, allowing you to relish local tastes without compromising your health. Whether your heart desires a luxurious spa experience, a serene yoga session, or a refreshing dip in a pool, Vientiane’s leisure and wellness havens await, ready to help you rejuvenate and recharge. With an array of options, you’re bound to find the ideal sanctuary for relaxation amidst the charms of this city.

Navigating Vientiane’s nightlife scene: Bars, clubs, and entertainment venues

As the sun dips below the horizon in Vientiane, a distinct vibrancy takes hold of the city. While it may not boast the same renown as some of its Southeast Asian counterparts in the nightlife department, Vientiane has an alluring charm all its own, with an assortment of bars, clubs, and entertainment venues ready to help you craft unforgettable nighttime memories.

A Midnight Adventure: The “Ride To Town” Bus Trip: For those with a craving to explore Vientiane after nightfall, the “Ride To Town” bus trip offers a thrilling ticket to adventure. This nifty service connects the dots between Phnom Penh and Vientiane, making it a breeze to soak up the best of both cities, even when the moon is high. The nocturnal journey is especially enchanting, winding through a scenic route under a star-studded sky. And here’s the bonus – the bus kindly picks up passengers from hotels in both cities, ensuring a seamless entry into Vientiane’s nightlife playground.

Diverse Nightlife Adventures in Vientiane: Once you set foot in Vientiane, a world of possibilities stretches before you, waiting for you to seize the night. Whether your heart throbs to the beat of live music, you yearn to dance the night away, or you simply desire a cozy spot to unwind with friends and drinks, Vientiane has something for every taste. Here are some cherished city gems:

  • Bar Hop:  This lively bar not only offers an extensive drink menu but also regularly hosts live music performances, setting the stage for a night to remember. It’s the perfect starting point for your evening and an excellent place to forge new friendships.
  • Bor Pen Nyang:  Nestled by the serene Mekong River, this bar is celebrated for its spellbinding sunset vistas. Sip on your preferred drink while gazing at the tranquil river’s flow – an experience that will etch itself into your memory.
  • Dao Fa Nightclub:  If you’re in the mood for dancing and a lively atmosphere, Dao Fa Nightclub extends its welcoming embrace. Its energetic vibe and pulsating music make it a magnet for both locals and travelers alike.
  • Jong Kham:  For those in search of a cozier setting, this intimate bar offers a relaxed ambiance. Savor a well-crafted cocktail, unwind, and soak in the laid-back vibe.

Vientiane at Night

Vientiane at Night

A reminder: Respecting local customs and adhering to each establishment’s rules is a must. Most places tend to bid adieu around midnight, so consider kicking off your evening a tad earlier. Whether you choose to dance until dawn or savor a quiet drink by the river, Vientiane’s nightlife scene extends a warm invitation, promising an unforgettable night in this captivating city.

Planning a family-friendly trip to Vientiane: Activities for kids and families

Embarking on a family-friendly trip to Vientiane promises a world of exciting activities to keep both kids and adults delighted. Whether you’re exploring the city’s renowned attractions or uncovering its hidden treasures, Vientiane caters to the diverse interests of your family.

Navigating Vientiane with Ease: Getting around Vientiane with your family can be made hassle-free by hiring a knowledgeable bus driver. These drivers not only know the city’s streets like the back of their hand but also have the inside scoop on the best routes to popular attractions. Alternatively, consider hiring a tuk-tuk or songthaew driver for an adventurous city tour. Remember to negotiate the fare upfront to avoid any unexpected surprises. Keep in mind that tuk-tuks and songthaews are often shared with other passengers, so you might make some unexpected friends along the way!

Prioritize Safety Above All: When it comes to passenger transportation, safety should always be a top priority, especially when traveling with young children. Ensure that your chosen mode of transportation is well-maintained and in excellent condition. If you have little ones in tow, it’s a good idea to bring along their car seats to ensure their safety during the journey. Additionally, opt for reliable and licensed drivers to minimize any risks. With these tips in mind, your family can embark on a memorable adventure in Vientiane, exploring its rich culture, vibrant markets, and captivating sights while ensuring a safe and enjoyable journey for everyone.

Understanding Vientiane’s etiquette and customs

To fully immerse yourself in the rich culture of Vientiane and show genuine respect to its people, it’s essential to acquaint yourself with the city’s etiquette and customs.

Laotian Girls participating in Celebratory Activities

Celebratory Activities

By understanding and adhering to these cultural practices, you not only enrich your experience but also demonstrate consideration for the local way of life. Here are some key points to bear in mind:

Greeting Traditions

  • The traditional Vientiane greeting is the “nop,” characterized by placing your hands together in a gesture akin to prayer and offering a slight bow.
  • When meeting someone for the first time, it is customary to extend a warm “sabaidee” (hello) or “sa bai dee mai” (how are you?) as a friendly gesture.
  • Demonstrating respect for elders is an integral part of the culture. Address older individuals with the honorific title “Nai” for men and “Nang” for women, followed by their first name.
  • Vientiane maintains a more conservative dress code, so it is advisable to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites or government buildings.
  • Women should refrain from wearing revealing attire, such as shorts, miniskirts, or sleeveless tops.
  • When entering temples or other sacred locations, both men and women should ensure that their shoulders and knees are covered.

Table Etiquette

  • When dining with locals, wait for the host to invite you to sit and commence the meal.
  • To show that you’ve had enough to eat, it is polite to leave a small portion of food on your plate. Consuming everything may imply that you’re still hungry.
  • When offered food or drinks by someone, express your gratitude by accepting with both hands, a gesture of appreciation.

Tipping Practices

  • While tipping is not obligatory in Vientiane, it is a kind gesture to show your appreciation for good service. A modest tip, such as 10% of the bill, is usually sufficient.

By embracing these local customs and etiquette, you not only leave a positive impression but also enjoy a more authentic and enriching experience in Vientiane. Remember that these are general guidelines, and observing the behavior of locals and following their lead can be especially helpful. Savor your exploration of this vibrant city and its abundant cultural heritage!

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Best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary

The vientiane 2 day itinerary in laos.

Table of Contents

Are you wondering how many days to spend in Vientiane ? I was and I decided to spend just 2 days in the capitol of Laos . And 2 days is plenty to do all the best things to do in Vientiane . 2 days may not seem a lot but it’s more than enough to see everything. As a result, I have written this  Vientiane 2 day itinerary  to help answer your questions about this epic city in Laos.

But is Vientiane worth a visit ? In a word, yes! Not only is there great things to do in Vientiane , but there isn’t the madness I have seen in other Capitols. For example, playing dodge with scooters is not necessary like what I have previously experienced in Hanoi . Vientiane is a lot more of a relaxed atmosphere and really is a best place to visit in Laos .  

Stuck for backpacking ideas? check out backpacking essential item list for Asia

Best things to do in Vientiane

Day 1 on the best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary  

Day 1 of my arrival in Vientiane. I was a little unsure as to what to expect as I arrived in Vientiane from Hanoi. So after getting a tuc tuc from the airport to our hostel in the centre of Vientiane. So after checking into our  backpacker’s hostel in Vientiane we made our way for a visit to the sombre Cope centre .

Make a visit to the inspiring Cope centre

COPE (Cooperative Orthotic & Prosthetic Enterprise) is the main source of artificial limbs, walking aids and wheelchairs in Laos , to help the victims of the ongoing trouble with the bombings from the tragic war. An inspiring look into how the people of Laos are pulling together to make their country a safer and better place. With the hopes of one day catching up to the economic growth of the Western world.

The cope visitor centre really drills home how much of an effect the bombings on Laos have had. The devastation is still ongoing as I write this. Furthermore, there are still 1000’s of live bombs scattered around Laos to this day and the most shocking thing of all, children are searching for them in the hopes to trade them for money.

You will be taken on a journey through the effects of the war on Laos through the deliverance of a mini movie theatre, physical visuals and plenty of deep heart-breaking posters/books. Furthermore, your visit here will last for around 1 and half hours and then you can donate a small fee or purchase items to help the cause of the COPE centre .  

I highly recommend a visit to the COPE centre, you will get to learn a lot about the history of Laos in just a short amount of time. One of the best to do in Laos on a 2 day itinerary and it’s FREE, not bad.  

Cost: FREE but you can contribute a donation 

Visit Vientiane’s cool Patuxai   

One of the most touristic places to visit in Laos. The  Patuxai is a unique and historic style building. Furthermore, visitors can pay $0.40 to climb the inside steps to the top of the  Patuxai ’s architecture and here great views over Vientiane can be seen.

This is the most popular thing to see in Vientiane, there’s plenty of photos on Instagram of this iconic building and there is always plenty of tourists here. The landscape around the Patuxai is very neat and presents this unique structure very well. Furthermore, if you pay the small fee to climb to the top, you will be able to buy local gifts from the random market stores inside the Patuxal and also take some great photos of Vientiane from a-high.

Cost: $0.40 for entrance to the top of Vientiane’s Patuxai 

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Try out a fresh trim at one of the hairdressers or barbers in Vientiane  

A cool London styled barbers that delivers a great trim for just $4.   It’s been 7 week since I’ve had a trim and my hair has started to grow a little, I’m used to getting it cut every couple of week back home. Nevertheless, I decided to find a barbers in Vientiane and it didn’t take me long. Although, I was nervous to let loose on my hair a guy who can’t speak a word of English other than yes and No. Result, he did a good job. Sigh of relief and I left with a smile on my face.  

The barbers I used was the best barbers I have seen on my 2 day visit to Vientiane , it was a quirky London style barbers (cut for a fraction of a London trim). A sweet haircut in Vientiane for just $4. I did see plenty of backstreet barbers, but I guess that’s up to you if you want to take the risk 🙂

There’s also plenty of hairdressers if the girls fancy a new perm or maybe a long awaited hair-dye.

Cost: $4 you even get to pick from a catalogue what type of haircut you would like

What to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary – Day 2

This was my only full to make the most of the best things to do in Vientiane . We decided to get up at the break of dawn, I prefer to get up earlier to be honest. So the alarm is set for 6am, let’s do this!

Catch the sunrise on a river Mekong morning run

Get physical and go for a heart-raising run along Vientiane’s River Mekong , if you do this early enough you can even catch a glorious Vientiane sunrise. 

The hotel’s free breakfast starts at 8am, but we got up at 6am ? Okay let’s get some fitness training in, yeah I still like to stay healthy while backpacking . Therefore, what better way to train than go for a run along Vientiane’s river Mekong. You won’t be the only one, you will see plenty of Vientiane locals getting their training in.  

Enjoy a refreshing drink or coffee at one of many Vientiane coffee shops  

Enjoy great coffee like me? Then you’ve got to get yourself to one of the super tasty places to drink in Vientiane . You can enjoy a delicious creamy style Frappe, a super strong Americano or even a Cool styled sweet green tea. I tried the green tea, it was mega. Also, I discovered a couple of the drinks shops give out FREE fruit , but obviously ask first.

There is also local coffee stations on every street and you can pick up a coffee at these for around $0.80. These stations are mot popular for the locals buying iced coffee. Nevertheless, it’s worth trying one of these cheap iced coffees for the low price. You may even prefer these over the little more expensive coffee shops in Vientiane.

Best place to eat in Vientiane as this is worth a special mention  

The food in Vientiane’s best restaurant –  Tyson Kitchen is out of this world. Pizzas, burgers, chips and much more. The food here is a little more expensive in comparison with local Vientiane restaurants with a pizza costing around $6. Nevertheless, it’s worth it for a treat and an unbelievable tasting treat as well.  

50/50 style pizzas, yes you can pick two different pizzas and make them into one. mouth-watering cheese and juicy meat. You have got to eat at Vientiane’s best place to eat. You also get free peanuts and water.  

On the second day we definitely found the best restaurant in Vientiane. Also, as I write this it is the best pizza we have tasted in Southeast Asia. The food is everything you need for a change from southeast Asian food everyday. I do enjoy the Southeast Asian food but sometimes you need a change and taste something a little closer to home.  

See Vientiane’s King Anouvong Statue

A strong standing statue located at the side of Vientiane’s river Mekong . We decided to walk along the river Mekong and visit the .. It’s a quite impressive icon of Vientiane and there’s plenty of little temple styled statues around it for you to explore. You can also get a great picture with the  King Anouvong Statue from next to the river Mekong.  

Take a local Loa herbal massage in a random setting

A great one hour massage for $7, in a tree-house styled balcony and with chickens wandering past you. Regarded as the best place in Vientiane for a massage , I had to make a visit to this unique place.

I knew the setting was no 5-star spa due to researching it on review sites. Nevertheless, I’m an open-minded person and I can dig a best thing to do in Vientiane with a good rating. When I got there a guy just said yes up there, it was an opened plan balcony with 4 single bed mattresses and it was somebody’s house. Okay this is weird. However, the none-speaking masseur gives out a mega massage. In addition, there is also changing rooms (a shed), toilets and lockers.

The massage was brilliant and I would highly recommend it as a best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary.  

Cleanse the pores in a visit to Vientiane’s sauna room  

One of the only sauna rooms in Vientiane . A strange setting and a good way to relax if there’s bad weather in Vientiane. The cost of the sauna is just $2.  

The steam room is actually at the same place as Vientiane’s strangest massage place. We did have the massage, however I left the steam room as it was a nice day and I didn’t fancy sweating even more. Nevertheless, Vientiane’s steam room has good reviews and it’s worth a visit if your going to get a massage.   For a great top thing to do in Vientiane , do both the massage and the spa together. You will come out feeling like a new person.

Try a local smoothie at one of Vientiane’s street smoothie stands  

Local fresh fruit, veg, ice, milk and a good blender to whisk up a delicious cheap smoothie on your visit to Vientiane. At just a $1 the smoothies make a mega low-cost refreshing drink on the best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary .

I can drink smoothies all day long, they’re are my favourite things to drink. You just can’t beat a fresh banana tasting smoothie on a hot day. Take it from a smoothie expert (I labelled myself that) the smoothie stands in Vientiane are amazing and you should take advantage of the low-costing delicious drinks of heaven. I’m getting an urge to go and get one writing this.  

Visit and meditate with the monks in Vientiane

This is the most surreal thing to do on Vientiane. A truly extraordinary experience to mediate with a group of monks and also be able to question them on their beliefs or any questions you may have about life.  

Visiting the monks was the number one thing on my list of things to do in Vientiane and if I had put these in order of best. This would be number one on the best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary .  

I got the an hour early due to the 3pm start time I found online being wrong, it actually started at 4pm. However, it turned out a good thing as one of the monks turned up early. I got to question him for a full hour without anyone else being there. We spoke about his beliefs and we spoke a little about life in my home country – England. When the session started a group of us, including 5 Vientiane monks mediated for 45 minutes. It was very surreal and brilliant. We mediated to concentrate on the moment and not the past or the future. However, this is more difficult than it sounds to try and shut your mind off.  

I learned a lot from the monks and took a lot away about their views on life. As a result, I highly recommend visiting the monks of Vientiane, it really is a top thing to do and who knows you may even start to take a little mediation up.

Visit Vientiane’s best shopping centre  

Stepping out of a Vientiane local street into Vientiane’s  Talat Soa morning market and shopping centre is like stepping from a jungle into America’s Wall Street. You go from a poor street to looking at brand new cars and crisp expensive shirts. Nevertheless, it’s worth a visit to see how Laos’s capitol delivers fine shopping in comparison to what you are used to back home.

The day was filled with rain on my visit to the shopping centre in Vientiane, so I was making a visit to it whether I wanted to or not as the rain started to hammer it down. Furthermore, I was glad as there was free drinks being handed out and also the food court on level 3 has cheap tasty meal. You can pick a meal up for $2. There isn’t lots of shops, just clothes, electrical and random item shops. Nevertheless, Vientiane’s best shopping centre is definitely worth a visit for an hour or two.  

OPEN HOURS: Everyday 8am – 5pm

Grab a bargain at Vientiane’s night market  

Located alongside the river Mekong . The night market in Vientiane is a narrow, two rows stretch of market stalls filled with items such us Clothing, watches and plenty of other useful electrical items.

Visiting local markets is one of my favourite things to do in Southeast Asia, there’s just something about the local goods that I want to explore. With the Vientiane night market you will get the chance to buy copied goods but of great quality. For example, you can pick up a pair of Nike trainers for $8 (crazy cheap), they look and feel the same as the real thing.

What you should know about the night market in Vientiane – You probably guessed from the name “night market” that they start at night. You’re right they start around 6:30pm and can go on till around 10pm. The prices on all the items ARE NOT what you should pay! The culture of the Vientiane night market is BARTERING, the locals expect it and it would be rude not too 🙂 you can get the prices of items to be halved sometimes, enjoy.  

Best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary wrapped up.

Laos’s capital is a great place the visit and I hope this post has answered your questions what are the best things to do in Vientiane ? or how long do I need to spend in Vientiane ?  A 2 day trip to Vientiane is just right. I wouldn’t plan on spending any longer in the capitol of Laos.

After visiting here, I would highly recommend visiting Luang Prabang or Vang Vieng . There is plenty to see and do in the top places to visit in Laos .

Please share the love if this post has been useful 🙂

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Laos Travel Guide: Complete 10-Day Itinerary

Laos Travel Guide: Complete 10-Day Itinerary

Travel through Laos on an unforgettable 10-day journey. Drive through bright green paddy fields, on empty jungle roads, and only stopping to gaze at the forest-covered cliffs above. Despite sharing a border with Thailand , Cambodia , and Vietnam , Laos is still under the radar as a travel destination. Luckily this gives it serenity and peace, which is the perfect accompaniment to the natural wonders of blue lagoons, epic caves, and crashing waterfalls.

Travelling in Laos: a 10-day Itinerary

Travel in Laos at a slow pace: 10 days allows for relaxation, as well as being able to fit in all the things to see and do. If you have less time and want to do the route faster, it could be easily done in 7-8 days. Here is the day-to-day itinerary to travel in Laos.

* Note that this travel route covers northern Laos.

vientiane travel blog

Day 1-4: Luang Prabang

Fly into the enchanting town of Luang Prabang . The town is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its architectural significance and excellent preservation of spiritual practices and customs.

Read: Things to do in Luang Prabang

luang prabang royal palace

Discover all the stunning gold-detailed temples, surrounded by vibrant purple and pink flowers. The spirituality of the town is at dawn, during the alms-giving ceremony, where orange-robed monks march together through the streets, receiving flowers and food from the town residents.

Hotels in Luang Prabang 😴

Belle Rive Hotel

Day 5-8: Vang Vieng

Vang Vieng is a town for adventure lovers. Limestone karsts, providing awesome hikes and panoramic viewpoints, surround the town. Hire a motorbike and drive to one of the many turquoise lagoons and caves nearby.

Read: Vang Vieng – Things to do guide

ultimate guide vang vieng laos

The town, nestled on the banks of the beautiful Nam Song river, provides the perfect water playground for tubing or kayaking. Fill your days with exciting activities and end them by wandering in the stunning paddy fields at sunset.

Hotels in Vang Vieng 😴

Bearlin Bungalow

From Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

The drive by car from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng takes around 5 hours. Traveling in Laos is a bit difficult as the roads are not (yet) well-developed. There are plenty of shared minivans you can take from the Luang Prabang bus station, leaving either in the morning or the afternoon.

A brand-new train track has opened and now provides a faster travel alternative between destinations.

Find the train or bus timetable and tickets here

Laos Travel Guide: Complete 10-Day Itinerary

Day 9-10: Vientiane

End your Laos travels in the capital city of Vientiane! Although it has the status of a city, it feels more like a town. As a result, you will only need a day or two to see all the things to do in Vientiane. Home to the grand presidential palace and plenty of impressive temples, the city is the perfect place to get your fix of culture and history. 

Laos Travel Guide Vientiane

Laos during the war

During the Vietnam war, 2 million tonnes of bombs were dropped on Laos. Still to this day, some remain unexploded, and many Laotians have been hurt or killed as a result.

The COPE visitor center displays artifacts and films to explain the history, and they also work to help rehabilitate victims who have been affected. A very powerful experience and an essential visit in order to better understand the history of this resilient country.

Laos Vientiane

Buddha Park, Vientiane

If you have time, take the morning to travel 25km outside of the city to the incredible Buddha Park. Here you will find a park filled with over 200 giant buddha statues, all with a slightly weird and wonderful look about them. It is a 40-minute bus journey but worth it to see a more unusual attraction.

Hotels in Vientiane 😴

Lao Poet Hotel

From Vang Vieng to Vientiane

The journey to Vientiane takes approximately 1-2 hours by minibus on the new highway. You can also opt for traveling by the new train; this takes around 2 hours to the city center.

Tip: There is also an international airport in Vientiane, so depending on whether your flight arrives into Vientiane or Luang Prabang, you can reverse this itinerary.

Travel Guide Vientiane laos

Costs of Traveling in Laos

The cost of travel in Laos is very cheap. This is mainly because all activities are centered around nature. For example hiking to cliff points, exploring caves, or swimming in lagoons or waterfalls. Entrance to caves, lagoons, and also to cross bridges are not normally more than 1-2 USD. On a budget, travelers can expect to spend about 10-20 USD a day. If you’re able to spend a bit more you can stay in more high-end accommodation for a very reasonable price.

Travel on a budget in Laos, from $180 − $270 USD weekly per person, mid-range $300 − $950 USD, and high-end from $930 − $1640 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here

  • Hotels: $15 − $200 USD Check available hotels
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  • Food: $5 − $15 USD
  • Activities: $5 − $10 USD See tickets & tours
  • Sim: $1 − $3 USD Get an eSIM or SIM here
  • Travel Insurance: $2 − $6 USD Get Travel Insurance

How to Get Around Laos

The infrastructure in Laos is not yet well developed. Roads are often dirt or unfinished which can make bus journeys slow, especially in the wet season when the roads can flood. Although this makes traveling in Laos more difficult, it is also what gives Laos its charm!

The new train between destinations is very convenient and fast but is also a lot more expensive if you are traveling on a budget.

luang prabang bus station

You can travel through Laos by train or bus. Once at your destination, it is very easy to get around, either on foot or by hiring a motorbike. Songthaews are also widely available- a pick-up truck-style taxi.

Tickets: Book your train or bus tickets and flight tickets here.

river laos

Best Time to Visit Laos

To see the lagoons at their most turquoise blue, visit in the dry months between October to March. Keep in mind that October- February is the cooler part of the dry season. After this, temperatures can be hot, and the farmers start burning season in the fields which can cause the sky to be hazy and smoky.

luang prabang local market

October is a beautiful month to travel to Laos. This is just after the rainy season ends, when the rice fields will still be lush and green, the waterfalls will be running and the lagoons will be starting to look bluer.

most beautiful waterfall laos

Seasons in Laos

Laos has very different seasons, which can be difficult to navigate. You should choose which time of year you visit based on what you want to see. For instance:

Dry Season : if you are hoping for cooler temperatures, it’s a good idea to visit between October to March. However, at this time, it is likely the waterfalls may be dry and rice won’t be growing. Keep in mind that in March/April farmers begin burning season, which may create smoke that can cause problems for allergy sufferers. 

bridge vang vieng laos

Rainy season : is from March-October and Laos sees it’s hottest temperatures in the first few months of the season. It can also be difficult to travel due to the rain and sometimes dangerous. The rice paddies will be green and luscious though, and it is the best time to see the waterfalls.

Tip: A good month to visit is October because it’s at the start of the dry season. The countryside will still be green and lush from the rainy season which has just ended.

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Laos?

To travel to Laos, you will need to apply for an e-visa. The e-visa permits travelers to stay in Laos for 30 days and normally costs between 45 USD to 60 USD, depending on your country of residence. It is valid for single entry only to 5 different entry points in Laos and is valid for 60 days after receiving the approval letter.

Easily order your visa online here

rent motorbike vang vieng

Safety in Laos

Laos is very safe to travel in, and people are exceptionally friendly. Crime is very low, although some minor theft does occur. For this reason, it is good to carry your valuables with you, especially when you’re traveling on buses, as there have been cases of tourists having things taken from their bags.

Travel Insurance Don't forget a travel insurance for your Laos trip! Heymondo covers medical emergencies, theft, delays, cancellations, lost luggage, and more, with 24/7 worldwide assistance and medical chat. As a Salt in our Hair reader, we've got you 5% off! Check Heymondo here

Due to Laos’ history, there are still unexploded bombs in the countryside. Because of this, it is absolutely essential to always stay on the path when hiking. If you are trekking, it is essential to go with a guide.

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9 Best Things To Do in Vang Vieng, Laos

11 best things to do in luang prabang.

Looking for more travel information? Plan a chat with us for personalised travel advice or get an answer from the Salt in our Hair Travel Community on Facebook.

Thank you so much for your detailed itinerary. I will probably follow it for my first visit to Laos. The inclusion of train details was really helpful as were the things to do in each place. Once again many thanks

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24 Hours Layover

Vientiane to Luang Prabang – Laos Itinerary 5 days!

By: Author Catrina

Posted on Last updated: January 17, 2024

Categories ASIA , LAOS

A popular route for travellers and backpackers to take when they visit Laos is to go from Vientiane to Luang Prabang or vice versa.

When I did my 5 day trip to Laos I too decided to go from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, stopping off at Vang Vieng along the way.

It was a good amount of time to explore Northern Laos – I got to see some incredibly beautiful places and the itinerary didn’t feel rushed.

Of course it would have been great to spend longer here and have time to really relax and discover some lesser-known places in the south such as the backpacker’s paradise of Don Det for example.

But if you can only spend 5 days in Laos, read on for your perfect Laos itinerary!

laos itinerary best photo spots

VIENTIANE TO LUANG PRABANG – LAOS ITINERARY 5 DAYS

Whilst Vientiane (pronounced ‘ wieng chan ‘) is the capital of Laos, it is a lot quieter than other South East Asian capitals. It has a very calm, relaxed vibe, and to many people it feels more like a town than a capital city.

This can be a good thing if you’re tired of big South East Asian metropolis cities such as Kuala Lumpur and Saigon  (HCMC) for example and want somewhere a bit more manageable, chilled and easier to navigate!

Vientiane is not heavily saturated with tourist sights, and sadly many tourists skip it in preference of other parts of Laos such as Luang Prabang as they seem to possess more charm and character.

Nonetheless, the French Colonial city of Vientiane has some really interesting and unique places to visit and is certainly worth exploring – especially as you’ll most likely pass through here as you enter or exit Laos.

If for example you have 10 days in Laos, then 2 days in Vientiane would be perfect and would mean you could explore at a slow pace and still have plenty of time to relax. However, if you only have 5 days in Laos, spend just 1 day here in Vientiane.

So, what to do in Vientiane in 1 day? Below are the main sights of Vientiane – I have put them in a specific order so that you can walk from one to the next without having to go back on yourself.

COPE Centre

First off stop off at the Cope Centre.  COPE stands for Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise.

COPE is a charity in Vientiane that helps thousands of local people who have become victims of unexploded landmines by providing them with prosthetic limbs and orthotics.

Visiting their Centre was such a moving, eye opening and informative experience and I 100% recommend you to come here to learn about Laos’ ongoing tragedy:

Laos is the most heavily bombed country in history. No it is not at war. The bombs are left over from the American-Vietnam War.

Two million tonnes of bombs were dropped on Laos by the Americans: the equivalent to a plane full of bombs dropped every 8 minutes, 24 hours a day for 9 years.

Even almost 50 years since the war these bombs are still killing the people of Laos. This is because many of the bombs dropped didn’t explode at the time and so go off even now if somebody steps on the land above it, or when someone is cooking nearby on an open fire.

Entrance to COPE is free. The centre is open 7 days a week from 9am until 6pm and there are lots of short movies and displays that explain everything really well.

The Centre can be a little tricky to find. Head for the National Rehabilitation Centre (Centre for Medical Rehabilitation CMR) on Khouvieng Street. Actually go into the grounds, then turn right and at the end you’ll see the COPE Visitor Centre (small white building).

Google maps location . 

Wat Si Muang Temple

Wat Si Muang Temple is a 10 minute stroll from the COPE Visitor Centre.

This beautiful Buddhist temple is one of Vientiane’s most popular and special temples amongst the Laotian people.

The temple is named after the young lady Si Muang who sacrificed herself here to the spirits. You can see her small statue behind the temple and it is believed she is protecting the city of Vientiane.

Vientiane to Luang Prabang itinerary laos temple

For this reason and because of it’s location in the centre of town many locals come here to worship.

At the entrance to the temple there are several stalls where you can buy gifts such as flowers, incense, bananas and candles to offer to the gods during worship.

Wat Si Muang is open daily from 6am – 7pm.

That Dam (Black Stupa)

Carry on down Rue Samsenthai for about a mile. You’ll then see to your right in the middle of a roundabout on a quiet street lies the most magnificent Buddhist stupa.

The stupa is known as That Dam Stupa or the Black Stupa, and was built in the 16th Century. Standing at the bottom of this charming giant bell shaped pagoda, I felt like I was back in Bagan  – it was so big!

I loved how the grass had been left to grow on the pagoda.

That Dam Stupa was once completely covered in gold.

During the Lao- Siamese War (Lao Rebellion) in 1826-1828 however, the gold was taken to Siam (now Thailand). This is the reason why it is now called The Black Stupa, and it is still held in high regard by the people of Laos.

Vientiane that dam black stupa laos

Google maps location of That Dam Stupa .

Wat Si Saket

The vibrant red and yellow Wat Si Saket (Sisaket Temple) was built over 200 years ago. It remains one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Vientiane as many were destroyed during past wars and invasions and subsequently rebuilt.

At Wat Si Saket (‘wat’ means temple) there is also a small outdoor museum here that houses 5000 ancient buddha statues. 

Entrance to Wat Si Saket and Sisaket museum costs 10,000 kip. It is a really unique temple and definitely worth a visit.

Patuxai Victory Gate

As Laos is a former French Colony you can see several examples of French architect here in Vientiane.

The Patuxai Victory Gate is probably the best example of this. Patuxay was actually built to resemble Paris ‘ Arc de Triomphe.

There are a couple of differences however: there are 5 towers on top that resemble traditional Laos style architecture, and you’ll also see some Hindu gods carved into the gate.

You can climb to the top of the monument or use the elevator to get some level views over the city.

Pha That Luang

3 kilometres from the Patuxai Monument is Pha That Luang. Pha That Luang is a 16th Century golden stupa that is often considered the most sacred building in Laos.

It is also known as the Vientiane Giant Stupa as it has a giant central stupa that is over 45 metres tall.

Vientiane Night Market:

In the evening stroll along the Mekong River that runs alongside Vientiane. This river actually separates Laos from Thailand so you’ll be able to look across to Thailand from here!

There are a few restaurants along the riverfront, or if you prefer a cheaper dinner you’ll be able to enjoy some typical Laotian street food at the stalls at the Vientiane Night Market! 

Vientiane Night Market is open from sunset until late, and in addition to the street food you’ll be able to find a mix of souvenirs, clothes and paintings here.

If you have longer than 1 day in Vientiane, head to Xieng Khuan (also known as Buddha Park).

Xieng Khuan is also located along the Mekong River but it is 25 kilometres south east of Vientiane.

The giant open air Buddha Park has over 200 sculptures of Hindu and Buddhist deities, and there is even a reclining buddha that is over 40 metres high!

I really wanted to go here as the pictures look incredible, but I just didn’t have enough time!

The small laid-back town of Vang Vieng is a great place to spend a couple of days as there are so many activities to keep you occupied, and the landscape is stunning with limestone karst mountains in every direction.

blue lagoon 3 vang vieng Laos

How to get to Vang Vieng from Vientiane

Vang Vieng is 160 kilometres north of Vientiane. Conveniently it is situated roughly half way between Vientiane and Luang Prabang.

The best way to get to Vang Vieng from Vientiane is by bus or minibus. It costs around 60,000 kip (£5.20) and buses depart at all times throughout the day.

There are three bus stations in Vientiane but the buses for Vang Vieng depart from the Northern Bus Station.

The Northern Bus Station is about 10 km outside of town, so usually the price of your ticket will include the transfer to get to the bus station, but check beforehand! 

It is always advisable to reserve your seat beforehand so you can get the most convenient time bus to suit you. You can ask your guesthouse to book your ticket when you arrive to Vientiane. You can also book tickets online on Klook or Bookaway.

The VIP bus is the best option as it is the most comfy, and often the minibuses are always full. We took the minibus and behind me were a load of noisy chickens, so I would definitely advise the VIP bus if you would like a quieter and less eventful ride!

It takes about 4 hours on the bus, often with a halfway toilet stop. The road is very bumpy and winding as you are going along mountain roads for a large part of the ride, so be prepared it certainly won’t be the smoothest ride of your life!

Before you get to Vang Vieng, check where the bus will drop you off. The main Vang Vieng bus station is 2km from town (in which case you’ll need to get a tuk-tuk to your hotel), but often the bus will drop you off in the centre of town or at the abandoned airstrip a few hundred metres from the hotels.

If you leave for Vang Vieng on your second morning in Laos, then relax and explore the small town of Vang Vieng on foot for the rest of the day. There are lots of really cheap restaurants here and the views are stunning.

Organise a scooter for day 3 (read more about scooter hire below!) where you will go visit the nearby lagoons, mountains and caves!

laos flag

Vang Vieng then vs Vang Vieng now:

Vang Vieng was once known for alcohol and drug-fuelled tourists floating down the Nam Song River on inflatable rubber rings (known as tubing) all day for hours on end, stopping at bars that lined the river and buying drugs and alcohol (yes drugs were even written on the menu).

After many, many deaths of tourists (there were 50 deaths alone in 2011) in the river – getting drunk, falling in and getting caught up in the current, or simply just floating down the river way after dark and never coming back, the police decided to clean up the place overnight and tore down all the bars and laid down strict rules.

It was a brave move but it definitely paid off.

Nowadays, the atmosphere is a lot calmer and quiet, and Vang Vieng rightly so now focuses on promoting the natural beauty of the area: it is full of absolutely stunning scenery!

There is lots to do to fill up your days, including swimming in the blue lagoons, hiking the mountains, hiring a scooter and driving past the beautiful rice fields, or exploring the many caves. I for one am so glad the reputation of this town has changed for the good.

Getting around Vang Vieng

The cheapest and easiest way to get around Vang Vieng is by hiring a scooter as many of the sights are a few kilometres apart.

Here are some important things to bear in mind when hiring a scooter here:

  • When you hire a scooter you will need to leave your passport with the scooter rental people.
  • There are plenty scooter hire places in town all offering similar prices. You can either rent the scooter from your guest house or from one of the scooter rental places in town.
  • It usually costs around 80.000 LAK to rent a scooter for the day (£7) – bargain! Check what time you need to return it by (and don’t forget to collect your passport before you leave)!
  • Ask them for a map of the local area if they have one so you can easily plan out your route!
  • As with most places in Asia they will often give you the scooter with an almost empty tank. You therefore fill up what you need for the day and return it with the same amount of petrol in that you received. Of course you always end up putting in more petrol than you need! I think they do this so you will fill up too much and return it with fuel so they can use it, so don’t fill up too much petrol!
  • The roads around Vang Vieng are VERY uneven. They are actually the worst I have ever experienced. I was riding on the back whilst my friend was driving and I briefly hurt my back a couple of times on the motorbike because the roads were so bumpy and rocky.
  • Make sure you wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the dust. Honestly this is essential when you are here – there is so much dust on the roads. Even wearing them, my eyes were so red by the end and my hair felt gross and really dry from all the sand in it.
  • There are lots of little ‘petrol stations’ along the road. You may not even notice them at first as it is not like a regular petrol station. It is someone sitting on the side of the road with a load of see-through plastic bottles containing petrol lined up. The petrol is the colour of pee – for some reason I had always thought petrol was darker so was confused at first. The person there will fill up your petrol for you using a funnel to pour the petrol into your tank.

You can drive across the Nam Song Bridge, but it is a toll bridge so you have to pay to go across. Instead, drive on the narrow wooden bridge (that looks like it’s just for pedestrians) that is nearer to town.

The local people and the people at the scooter hire told us it is ok to drive across here on the motorbike and they do it all the time.

Blue Lagoons

There are 3 Blue Lagoons in the Vang Vieng area – the closest (and busiest) being Blue Lagoon 1 and the furthest (and quietest) being Blue Lagoon 3.

Particularly with the first Blue Lagoon, the water isn’t always as picturesque blue as you would imagine, especially if it has rained lately as the water can turn a murky brown.

But the lagoons are lovely places to visit, have a swim in, relax and have fun! It is definitely worth half a day exploring the 3 Blue Lagoons Vang Vieng has to offer. There is a small entrance to visit the Blue Lagoons.

One thing I highly advise when going to visit the Blue Lagoons is to start your day EARLY before other tourists get here as they get very busy!

You’re never going to have all 3 of the lagoons to yourself, so what I recommend to do is to drive to Blue Lagoon 3 first like we did.

blue lagoon 3 vang vieng Laos

Blue Lagoon 3

Blue Lagoon 3 is the furthest away of the 3 Blue Lagoons.

It is located 13km from Vang Vieng town but took about 45 minutes for us to reach on motorbike due to the bumpy dusty roads.

Blue Lagoon 3 is also the quietest of the 3 lagoons, so if you don’t want to be surrounded by people, or want to get some great Instagram shots without other people in, I definitely recommend coming here!

Infact most tourists only know about the first Blue Lagoon, so this one remains the most undiscovered, and I’m always a fan of those kinds of places!

Arriving here first thing will mean you’ll be able to enjoy the place to yourself. We had it to ourselves the whole time we were there and it was incredible!

It certainly wouldn’t have felt as special if there were lots of other people there.

The water here at Blue Lagoon 3 was so clear and you could see down to the bottom of the lagoon with all the plants growing underwater.

There are bamboo rafts you can sit or stand on and row across the lagoon. You can also climb up onto a swing and then use this to jump into the water which is fun!

From the platform the swing is on you can get some lovely pictures of the lagoon rafts, huts and mountains in the background. No drone was required for those pictures!

blue lagoon 3 vang vieng Laos

By the time we got to Blue Lagoon 2 late morning it was so busy (actually with more locals than tourists!). We spent an hour or so there as well, and it was a really nice atmosphere but very crowded.

We drove past the first Blue Lagoon on the way back but didn’t even go in as it was so crowded by the time we got there.

Personally I was happy with visiting Blue Lagoon 3 and 2 that I didn’t feel like I missed out on seeing the Blue Lagoon.

Phangern and Nam Xay Viewpoints

Make sure to climb at least one mountain when you are in Vang Vieng as the views are out of this world!

The two most popular and incredibly picturesque viewpoints are from Phangern Mountain and Nam Xay. They are both located around 4km from Vang Vieng town and in the direction of the Blue Lagoon.

Nam Xay is a little easier to climb than Phangern, and has slightly better views, so if you have to choose between the two I would pick this one!

Phangern Mountain

It cost 10,000 kip to climb up Pha Ngerm Mountain. The climb is pretty tough but the views are incredible!

phangern viewpoint vang vieng Laos

There are also many caves you can explore around the town, including Changi cave, Elephant cave and Chinnaly cave.

Getting from Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang

Luang Prabang is about 185 km north of Vang Vieng. Again, travel by bus or minivan is the best way.

The journey does take slightly longer than the journey from Vientiane to Vang Vieng though (about 5 hours).

We booked our transport for Luang Prabang from Vang Vieng, presuming we would be travelling in a minibus again.

This time however, a large tuk-tuk showed up (one that fits about 10 people) – like the jeepeneys in Manila (see below picture)!

We travelled with local people all the way – many getting on and off. Even though we couldn’t communicate well with the locals, it was fun and really amazing to share this everyday experience with them. Even if it was very bumpy!

Luang Prabang tuk tuk laos

Luang Prabang

The majority of people who have been to Laos (myself included) will say Luang Prabang is their absolute favourite place in Laos. It just has an incredible vibe and is very picturesque!

There is a great atmosphere here, with lots of boutique cafes and a huge artisan night market every night of the week that goes from about 5pm til late.

To really enjoy Luang Prabang, 3 days is a good amount of time to spend in this small city. However if like me you just have under 2 days you can still see and do all the best bits!

Spend the first day exploring Luang Prabang (LP) on foot, then on the second day visit Kuang Si Falls – a must visit when in Laos!

Get there early in the morning to avoid the crowds, then in the afternoon head to  Living Land , an organic farm that provides fruit and vegetables to many places in Luang Prabang. Proceeds go to teaching children English and helping families in need. You can also do the Rice Tour there, to see how rice is made.

Like Vientiane, Luang Prabang sits along the Mekong River. Once you arrive and get yourself sorted, head down to one of the restaurants along the river.

They have a great selection of dishes at very reasonable prices! Plus the view is stunning! You can also do a cruise down the Mekong River if you wish!

Phou Si Mountain

In the centre of the Old Town of Luang Prabang, just a short 100 metre climb up the hill by the night market is Phousi Mountain and a lovely little temple on top of the hill.

Despite being called a mountain, it only takes maybe 10 minutes to climb it and you will be rewarded with beautiful views of the town below and views of the Mekong River and the mountains surrounding Luang Prabang.

Sunset is the most popular time to visit, when it gets VERY busy (you’ll struggle to even find somewhere to sit sometimes!). But the sunset views are so stunning – see the below picture for the view!

phousi mountain sunset view Mekong river Laos Luang Prabang

Kuang Si Falls

Kuang Si waterfall is probably the most famous, well known and most Instagrammable sight in Laos and absolutely cannot be missed during your trip here. It is a stunning set of several waterfalls located a short ride from Luang Prabang.

On our motorbike it took 45 minutes, but if you come by car it will be quicker. Even if you have one or two days in Luang Prabang you can visit Kuang Si Falls in the morning and be back in Luang Prabang for lunch.

Kuang Si Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve ever seen. The water is an incredible light turquoise blue colour and it cascades down into tiered rock pools.

The water comes crashing down from the thick jungle above into several seemingly perfectly created limestone pools. The water is really this beautiful and you can swim in this heavenly water, although it is quite cold!!

Entrance to the falls is 20,000 kip ($2.50) and I advise to get there first thing as it can get very crowded later on in the day.

The picture below was taken at the first main pool, and this is where most people take photos of them jumping into the water, so get here early if you don’t want a queue of people watching you!

I tried to dive but failed miserably so had to settle for the picture below!

kuang si falls Luang Prabang Laos

And that was our 5 day Laos itinerary – from Vientiane to Luang Prabang via Vang Vieng. We packed in a lot, but had lots of time to relax too.

It was an incredibly beautiful country and made a change from other hectic South East Asian countries. If you need any more information on Laos just drop me a message in the comments below!

VIENTIANE TO LUANG PRABANG – LAOS ITINERARY 

Need to know information about laos:.

Currency in Laos: Kip.

1 USD = 8882 Laotian kip.

A visa is needed for most passport holders to enter Laos.

Read more Laos travel tips!

If you are backpacking across South East Asia you will probably visit Cambodia and Thailand too. Check below for some super useful articles to help plan your trip:

4 Day Hanoi Itinerary

Climbing Poem Mountain (Bai Tho) in Halong Bay

Overnight Train from Bangkok to Chiang Mai – how to get the cheapest tickets!

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laos itinerary best photo spots

Catrina is a Travel Writer and ex-Flight Attendant based in Sydney, Australia. She has visited 85 countries and lived in several – including Italy, Australia, United Arab Emirates and England. Her work has been featured in a variety of popular travel publications including Fodors, Escape, Australian Traveller and Bear Grylls, as well as several international aviation and travel companies. She only writes about places she has personally visited, and aims to give real, honest advice to help her readers.

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  3. Visit Vientiane, Laos

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  4. 2 jours à Vientiane

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  5. 14 Awesome Things to do in Vientiane, Laos' Sleepy Capital

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  6. Vientiane City Tour, Laos

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  3. Vientiane International Half Marathon

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  5. ลองกิน "สตรีทฟู้ดอินเดีย" ข้างทาง

  6. Day 2 : I Wished We Knew This Earlier, Skip Google Review 🇱🇦 Vientiane December 2023

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  1. Vientiane Travel Guide (Updated 2024)

    Vientiane Travel Guide. Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is home to around 1 million people. The name of the city is French and derived from "Viangchan" ("walled city of sandalwood"). The city was the economic hub under French rule, which started in 1893 and lasted until 1953. Nowadays, the capital is a hub for café culture, cheap spas ...

  2. The Perfect Vientiane Itinerary

    Enough talking, let's dive straight in and see what you can do in 24 hours in this one day Vientiane itinerary! Contents [ hide] 1 Worship The Pha That Luang (Best of Vientiane itinerary) 2 See The Patuxai Monument. 3 Visiting COPE Visitor Centre. 4 Watch the Sunset Over Thailand in Chao Anouvong Park.

  3. Vientiane

    Vientiane, Laos might seem sleepy and languid by Southeast Asia standards, but the Lao PDR capital might surprise you with its diversity of cuisine, quirky sights, friendly locals, and infectious sabai-sabai attitude.. Visiting Vientiane, Laos, elicits such a diversity of opinions from travelers, it's often hard to know if the laid back capital of Laos is worth a couple days of your ...

  4. The Ultimate Vientiane Travel Guide 2024 • Laos Travel

    Bicycle rental is a good way to get around Vientiane from 10,000-30,000 LAK (US $1.15-3.45) per day and can be made from your accommodation or shops around town (suggested Mixay Bike, Lao Bike). Tuk Tuk is also affordable at about 30,000LAK (US$ 3.45) for a 3-km ride.

  5. 10 BEST Things to Do in Vientiane in 2024

    8. Stroll Around Vientiane Night Market. After sunset, there is no livelier place to visit than Vientiane Night Market, located along the bank of the Mekong River. The night market is always bustling with people every evening, with many shops lining both sides of the boulevard.

  6. 48 Hours Discovering Vientiane: The Ultimate 2-Day Itinerary

    Late Morning: Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) Next, hop on a tuk-tuk or a local bus to Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan. This sculpture park is about a 45-minute ride from the city center, but it's a journey worth making. The park is filled with over 200 religious statues, including a massive 40-meter reclining Buddha!

  7. One Day In Vientiane: BEST 24 Hours In Vientiane Itinerary

    If you have a bit longer in Vientiane I highly recommend visiting Buddha Park. This is more of a day trip from Vientiane, being located 25 kilometers outside of the city, it will take between 40 minutes to 1 hour to travel the distance. Nevertheless, it is well worth it to make this journey for a unique experience.

  8. 15 Things to Do in Vientiane: A Travel Guide to Vientiane, Laos

    Juliet Bistro| pasta, salads, + indulgent pastry options served with some of the best wine in Laos. Need Café|new on the café scene, minimal interiors, delicious food and decent coffee. Bar 2 Bros |a tiny little café with a (very milky) signature drink— the Butterfly Pea Latte.

  9. Vientiane Travel Guide: A list of the best travel guides and blogs on

    In the evening the riverside area is transformed into a night market and a great place to people watch. A good market for food is the Ban Anou night market. 25KM outside of Vientiane is Xieng Khuan (Buddha Park). The park lies on the Mekong river and holds over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues. In Vientiane you will see tuk-tuks and travel agents ...

  10. Vientiane Travel Guide

    7. Laos National Cultural Hall. One of the places to see in Vientiane is the Lao National Cultural Hall, a government-run exhibition hall that opened in March 2000. It's a massive building with grand designs located on a road that connects Rue Setthathilath to Rue Samsenthai.

  11. 14 awesome things to do in Vientiane, Laos' chilled capital

    DISCOVER LAO CULTURE IN VIENTIANE'S BEST MUSEUMS| THINGS TO DO IN VIENTIANE. COPE VIENTIANE. Most travellers are aware of the horrors of the Vietnam War - but very few know of the so-called 'Secret War' which took place right next door to it.. Though they denied it for many years, between 1964-1973 the United States of America dropped more than 2.5 million tonnes of ordnance on Laos ...

  12. 24 Awesome Things To Do In Vientiane + Useful Travel Tips

    Lao People's Army History Museum. Speaking of things to do in Vientiane, we just have to mention Vientiane's People's Army History Museum. The museum is dedicated to the leaders of Laos' war of independence. The museum is home to more than 10,000 artifacts, photos, and weapons that cover the period between 1950 and 1975 and the two ...

  13. Things to Do in Vientiane, the Capital of Laos, and the Surrounding

    Vientiane, the capital of Laos, boasts a history that spans centuries, marked by cultural influences, political changes, and a resilient spirit. Originally, Vientiane was a part of the Khmer Empire, evident through archaeological findings such as ancient temples. ... you'll find it all in our travel blog. By: Lexus Kemp January 10th, 2024. Ruin ...

  14. Notes on Vientiane: Riding the new railway and the gravitational pull

    Filed Under: Travel Blog Tagged With: laos, vientiane. About James Clark. James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles, and where to stay guides.

  15. Vientiane Itinerary: How to Spend 3 Days in Vientiane

    Here's an idea of what you can do during your Vientiane 3 days itinerary. Table of contents. Best time to visit Vientiane. Where to Go in 3 Days in Vientiane. 1. Wat Si Saket. 2. Vientiane Tour to Laos National Museum. 3.

  16. 12 Things To Do In Vientiane

    COPE Visitor Center. The COPE Visitor Centre Vientiane is a small museum and charity for victims of the bombings in Laos. Visit the COPE Visitor Centre, a museum that tells the story of the victims of unexploded ordnance in Laos. The COPE Visitor Center is a mini museum, rehab clinic and NGO that highlights the work done by COPE Laos, a center ...

  17. The 8 Best Things to do in Vientiane

    There are markets and stalls on most of the floors as you walk up and the intricate décor is interesting. 3. Eat Banh Mi in Vientiane. The night market in Vientiane might have some great places to eat, but the best Banh Mi we found outside of Saigon, Vietnam was down by the river. It's called Khao Jee here in Laos.

  18. Vientiane Travel Guide

    A Glimpse into History: Vientiane's history is a captivating tapestry that weaves back to the 9th century. Throughout its existence, the city has been influenced by various civilizations, notably the Khmer and French. A must-visit historical gem is the Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan.This site boasts over 200 religious sculptures, including a colossal reclining Buddha, showcasing the ...

  19. 5 days in Laos: Vientiane and Luang Prabang itinerary

    Day 1: Getting to Vientiane and exploring the city, a night at S2 Modern Boutique Hotel. Day 2: Flying or taking a train to Luang Prabang, 2 nights at The Belle Rive Resort. Days 3-4: Enjoying Luang Prabang, a day trip to the waterfalls & rice farm. Day 5: Exploring the rest of Luang Prabang, flying back.

  20. Ultimate Vientiane 2 Day Itinerary (Updated)

    COST: $2. Try a local smoothie at one of Vientiane's street smoothie stands. Local fresh fruit, veg, ice, milk and a good blender to whisk up a delicious cheap smoothie on your visit to Vientiane. At just a $1 the smoothies make a mega low-cost refreshing drinkon the best things to do in Vientiane 2 day itinerary.

  21. Laos Travel Guide: Complete 10-Day Itinerary

    Costs of Traveling in Laos. Travel on a budget in Laos, from $180 − $270 USD weekly per person, mid-range $300 − $950 USD, and high-end from $930 − $1640 USD. However, costs depend on factors like accommodation, transportation, and activities. We did not include flights. Check flight prices here.

  22. Vientiane to Luang Prabang

    Vang Vieng is 160 kilometres north of Vientiane. Conveniently it is situated roughly half way between Vientiane and Luang Prabang. The best way to get to Vang Vieng from Vientiane is by bus or minibus. It costs around 60,000 kip (£5.20) and buses depart at all times throughout the day.

  23. Vientiane Travel Blogs, Photos and Forum

    Vientiane Travel Blogs, Photos from TravelBlog.org. Background: Laos was under the control of Siam (Thailand) from the late 18th century until the late 19th century when it became part of French Indochina.The Franco-Siamese Treaty of 1907 defined the current Lao border with Thailand.

  24. DoubleTree by Hilton Vientiane

    Xieng Nang Village Vientiane Capital, Chanthaburi District, 1020, Laos. Directions Opens new tab. Receive our iconic cookie at check-in when you stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Vientiane hotel. We offer unmatched amenities and service featuring modern accommodations, an on-site restaurant, and fitness center.