Things To Do
in Vientiane
Vientiane, Laos' capital, sits along the Mekong River and blends a relaxed riverfront vibe with a surprising depth of history. The city is peppered with Buddhist temples, French colonial architecture, and shaded boulevards that invite easy wandering. Monks in saffron robes mingle with locals in markets, cafes, and riverside promenades, creating a welcoming, small-city atmosphere.
Despite its role as a capital, Vientiane remains intimate, easy to explore on foot or by bike, with plenty of scenery around every corner.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Pha That Luang, the national symbol of Laos. Wander through the serene gardens and take in the golden stupa shimmering in the morning light. Stop by a local café to enjoy a traditional Lao coffee before heading to your next destination.
In the afternoon, stroll along the Mekong Riverfront, where you can relax and enjoy the scenic views. Visit the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the ongoing impacts of unexploded ordnance in Laos and the efforts to help those affected. Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant, sampling local dishes like Laab and sticky rice.
As the sun sets, head to the Night Market along the riverbank, where you can shop for handmade crafts and local products. Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood while listening to traditional Lao music. Conclude your evening with a leisurely walk along the river, watching the vibrant colors of the sunset.
Begin your morning at Wat Si Saket, the oldest surviving temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of Buddha images. Explore the tranquil surroundings and admire the traditional Lao architecture. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby street vendor, trying out local fruits and pastries.
After lunch, visit Wat Phra Keo, the former royal temple that now houses a museum showcasing Laos' religious heritage. Spend the afternoon learning about the intricate history of Buddhism in Laos and the significance of the temple's artifacts. Take your time to enjoy the lush gardens and peaceful atmosphere.
For dinner, experience a traditional Lao BBQ at a local restaurant, where you can grill your own meat and enjoy a variety of dipping sauces. Afterward, take a stroll to the Patuxai Monument, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city as night falls. End your evening with a refreshing drink at a nearby bar, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within city | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly people
- Beautiful temples and riverfront scenery
- Good value for money and easy to navigate
- Limited nightlife compared with bigger cities
- Transport options can be limited outside the city center
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khop Chai" - Thank you
- "Chai dai mai?" - Can I have this?
- "Kho khun mark?" - Excuse me?
Places to Visit in Vientiane
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic gold stupa that shines in sunrise and is beautifully illuminated at dusk; best for wide-angle shots and temple silhouettes.
A monumental arch at the city center; captures the city skyline from its upper terraces, especially at sunset.
A tranquil temple with thousands of Buddha statues and crisp colonially-influenced architecture—great for detailed close-ups and symmetry.
Golden-hour reflections, silhouettes of fishermen, and views across the water to Thailand; ideal for long-exposure shots of boats.
Food in Vientiane
Vientiane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Minced meat (usually beef or pork) tossed with lime juice, herbs, chili, and toasted rice powder; a staple Lao salad often served with sticky rice.
Must-Try!
Spiced Lao sausage flavored with lemongrass, garlic, and chilies, typically grilled and served with sticky rice.
The beloved staple accompaniment for most Lao meals, used to scoop bites of other dishes and sauces.
Cloudy, comforting chicken or pork noodle soup with a homey broth and soft noodles.
Fish steamed in banana leaves with herbs and aromatics; often found at riverfront eateries and markets.
Spicy green papaya salad, usually with peanuts, lime, garlic, and chili; a refreshing counterpoint to richer dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering fresh produce, prepared Lao dishes, herbs, and inexpensive snacks—great for sampling local flavors.
Vibrant sunset-to-evening market along the river with street food stalls, crafts, and casual dining options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting temples (shoulders and knees covered). Remove shoes before entering sacred spaces and ask for permission before taking photographs of worshippers.
Greet with a calm, respectful demeanor; smiles are common. Avoid touching someone's head and use a light, respectful bow or palms-together gesture when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Vientiane
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in tourist-focused venues. Small tips (1-5 USD) to hotel porters, guides, and drivers are common; leave a larger tip for exceptional service.
Cash (Lao kip) is widely used; US dollars are commonly accepted in markets and some tourist spots. Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels, restaurants, and shops in central areas; ATMs are available in the city center.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with brief afternoon showers. Hydration is essential; carry water and a hat. Mornings are best for outdoor activities and temple visits.
Frequent rain and higher humidity; lush landscapes and fewer crowds. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and quick-dry clothing; weather can shift quickly.
Pleasant, cooler temperatures with comfortable humidity. Prime time for outdoor exploration and photography; mornings can be crisp.
Vientiane at Night
Hiking in Vientiane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails, waterfalls, and wildlife within a short drive of Vientiane; excellent day hikes with scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Vientiane by plane.
Main international airport serving Vientiane; connections to Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and regional hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the capital and country, forming the urban core and cultural center.
Communities such as Khmu and Hmong live around the city and rural districts; you may encounter diverse languages and crafts in markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime at parks, schools, and on street corners; local leagues and casual games are common.
Common in schools and community centers; weekend games and pickup matches are frequent.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vientiane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Lao dishes can be adapted to vegetarian needs by omitting meat and using extra vegetables or tofu. Look for dishes centered on mushrooms, tofu, or more vegetables, and ask for no fish sauce; request soups without meat stock or fish sauce and ask for extra lime, chilies, and herbs to boost flavor.