Things To Do
in Vientiane
Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, is a charming and laid-back destination known for its French colonial architecture and beautiful temples. Situated along the banks of the Mekong River, the city offers a blend of traditional Laotian culture and modern influences. Visitors can explore vibrant markets, taste delicious street food, and engage with the warm hospitality of the locals.
Despite being the largest city in Laos, Vientiane maintains a relaxed atmosphere that invites exploration at a leisurely pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the iconic Patuxai Monument, a war monument resembling the Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
Visit the serene That Luang Stupa, a sacred Buddhist site. Then, explore the nearby COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the impact of unexploded ordnance in Laos.
Enjoy dinner by the Mekong River at a riverside restaurant and watch the sunset, followed by a stroll through the night market for local crafts and snacks.
Start with a visit to the Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of Buddha statues. Then, head to the nearby Haw Phra Kaew museum.
Take a leisurely bike ride along the riverfront promenade, stopping at cafes for refreshments. Visit the local market for some souvenirs.
Dine at a traditional Lao restaurant and indulge in a cooking class to learn about local cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at a local restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍺Beer (local) | $1-2 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (within city) | $2-5 |
| 🛍️Souvenir | $1-10 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage
- Friendly locals
- Beautiful natural scenery
- Limited nightlife options
- Language barrier for some travelers
- Public transportation can be challenging
- "Sabaidee" - Hello
- "Khop chai" - Thank you
- "Sabai dee bor?" - How are you?
- "Nok phao?" - Where is...?
- "Mai pen rai" - No problem
Places to Visit in Vientiane
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning landmark that offers great views of the city from the top, perfect for sunset shots.
The temple's intricate architecture and thousands of Buddha images create an excellent backdrop for photography.
A picturesque location to capture the sunset over the river and the lively atmosphere of the riverside.
Food in Vientiane
Vientiane Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A spicy minced meat salad, often made with beef, chicken, or fish, flavored with lime, mint, and toasted rice.
Must-Try!
A refreshing salad made with shredded green papaya, tomatoes, peanuts, and a spicy dressing.
A staple side dish in Laos, served with almost every meal and often eaten with the hands.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, traditional snacks, and textiles.
A stretch of street lined with food vendors offering grilled meats, noodle soups, and desserts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always show respect to Buddha images; avoid touching them and dress modestly when visiting temples.
A traditional 'nop' greeting involves bringing your palms together in a prayer-like motion, accompanied by a bow.
When visiting temples, wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect.
Safety
Tipping in Vientiane
Ensure a smooth experience
While not mandatory, a small tip (around 10%) is appreciated in restaurants and for services.
Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are available. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments but may incur extra charges.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the most pleasant time to visit, with cooler temperatures and less humidity. Perfect for outdoor activities.
Expect high temperatures and humidity. Stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Frequent rain showers can disrupt travel plans. However, the landscape is lush and vibrant during this time.
The city becomes lively with celebrations. Expect water fights and various cultural activities.
Vientiane at Night
Hiking in Vientiane
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about an hour's drive from Vientiane, this park offers numerous hiking trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Hiking around this serene lake provides opportunities for both nature walks and scenic viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Vientiane by plane.
Located just 3 km from the city center, this airport serves domestic and some international flights, making it the main gateway to Vientiane.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of Vientiane's population consists of ethnic Lao, who maintain distinct cultural traditions and languages.
Vientiane is home to a small but diverse expatriate community, primarily made up of people from neighboring countries and Western nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is popular among locals, with many playing in parks and fields, and national matches attracting large crowds.
A traditional Southeast Asian sport similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, popular in local communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Vientiane.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the vendor or restaurant staff.
While traditional Lao cuisine is often gluten-free, it's advisable to check ingredients when dining out.