12 Best Things to Do in Vientiane, Laos

Looking for things to do in Vientiane, Laos? From beautiful temples and unusual Buddha statues to bustling markets and fascinating museums, there are more places to explore than you might expect.

Vientiane is a little different from most South East Asian capital cities. Compared with the bustle of Bangkok or Hanoi, it feels much more laid-back, and that’s part of its charm.

Many travellers spend just a day or two here on their way to more popular destinations such as Luang Prabang or Vang Vieng. And to be fair, that’s probably enough time for most people to see the main attractions.

When we visited, we actually treated Vientiane as a bit of a rest stop during our travels through Laos. We explored the city, visited some interesting attractions and spent a fair bit of time relaxing beside the pool at our hotel.

I’m certainly not going to tell you that Vientiane is the most exciting city I’ve ever visited. It isn’t. But there are some worthwhile things to see, and I enjoyed the slower pace.

One of my favourite experiences was visiting Buddha Park, with its collection of weird and wonderful statues.

There are also beautiful temples, important historical sites and opportunities to learn more about Lao culture.

So, if you’re wondering what to do in Vientiane, whether it’s worth visiting and how long you should stay, here’s what I recommend.

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Vientiane at a Glance

Location: Vientiane is the capital of Laos, situated on the banks of the Mekong River, across from Thailand.

How long to stay: One or two days is enough for the main attractions. Allow longer if you want to take things slowly.

Best time to visit: November to February generally has the most comfortable weather. March and April can be particularly hot, while May to October is the rainy season.

Getting there: Wattay International Airport, the Laos–China Railway or overland from Thailand.

Getting around: Walking, tuk-tuks, taxis, ride-hailing apps and local buses.

Currency: Lao kip (LAK). Carry cash for markets, smaller businesses and transport.

Must-see attractions: Buddha Park, Pha That Luang, Patuxay Monument, Wat Si Saket and the Mekong riverfront.

My recommendation: Spend two days in Vientiane if possible. You can see the main sights without rushing and still have time to relax.

Best Things to Do in Vientiane

Vientiane might be a relatively quiet capital city, but there are still plenty of interesting places to explore.

You’ll find Buddhist temples, monuments, museums and some rather unusual attractions. Many of the main sights are close together, making it possible to see quite a lot in a day.

We found Vientiane very hot, so my advice is to do most of your sightseeing in the morning or late afternoon, leaving the middle of the day for lunch or a break at your hotel.

The central area is fairly walkable, but tuk-tuks and taxis are useful for attractions further away.

Patuxay Monument (Victory Gate)

Patuxay is probably the most recognisable landmark in Vientiane, and it’s certainly difficult to miss!

Standing in the middle of Lane Xang Avenue, this impressive monument looks a little like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris.

There’s something slightly ironic about that, considering it commemorates those who fought for Laos, including in the struggle for independence from France.

Construction began in 1957, and while the overall shape is French-inspired, the decorations are distinctly Lao, featuring traditional Buddhist and Hindu designs.

Like the Arc de Triomphe, you can climb to the top for views across the surrounding park and city.

There’s also a pleasant garden area with fountains, making it worth stopping even if you don’t climb the monument.

Visiting Patuxay Monument

• Location: Lane Xang Avenue, central Vientiane
• Opening hours: Generally 8 am to 5 pm
• Entrance fee: Around 30,000 kip to climb; the surrounding grounds are free
• Allow: 30–45 minutes

I’d suggest visiting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when it isn’t quite so hot.

Pha That Luang (Great Sacred Stupa)

If there’s one building that symbolises Laos, it’s Pha That Luang.

This enormous golden stupa is one of the country’s most important religious monuments. You’ll recognise it from photographs, souvenirs and Lao banknotes.

The present monument dates to the 16th century, although the site has a much longer religious history.

We visited during our time in Vientiane, and I thought the gleaming golden stupa was beautiful.

There’s more to see than just the main monument, too. The surrounding complex includes temples, statues and an impressive golden reclining Buddha.

You can explore the outer grounds for free, but there’s an entrance fee to enter the walled enclosure surrounding the main stupa. I’d recommend paying it to get a closer look.

Visiting Pha That Luang

• Location: Around 4 km north-east of central Vientiane
• Opening hours: Usually daytime hours, sometimes with a lunchtime closure
• Entrance fee: Around 30,000 kip for foreign visitors to the inner enclosure
• Allow: 1–1.5 hours

Pha That Luang is a little outside the central tourist area, so taking a taxi or tuk-tuk is easiest.

It’s also an important religious site, so dress respectfully with your shoulders and knees covered.

Wat Si Saket

If you only have time to visit one traditional temple in central Vientiane, Wat Si Saket is a good choice.

Built in 1818 during the reign of King Anouvong, it’s one of the city’s oldest surviving temples.

Unlike many other temples in Vientiane, it survived much of the destruction that occurred during the Siamese invasion in 1828.

Its architecture has a distinctly Siamese influence, so you might notice similarities with temples in Thailand.

What makes Wat Si Saket particularly interesting is its enormous collection of Buddha images.

Thousands of them are displayed in small niches along the walls and throughout the complex. It’s quite a sight to see so many together.

The temple grounds are also a peaceful place to wander, with plenty of interesting architectural details.

Visiting Wat Si Saket

• Location: Lane Xang Avenue, central Vientiane
• Opening hours: Generally daytime, sometimes closing for lunch
• Entrance fee: Around 30,000 kip for foreign visitors
• Allow: 30–60 minutes

Wat Si Saket is directly across the road from Haw Phra Kaew, so it makes sense to visit both together.

Haw Phra Kaew (Wat Ho Phra Keo)

Just across the road from Wat Si Saket is Haw Phra Kaew, another beautiful historic temple building.

You might also see it called Ho Phra Keo, Haw Phra Kaew or Wat Ho Phra Keo. They’re all referring to the same place.

Originally built in the 16th century, it once housed the famous Emerald Buddha.

If you’ve visited Bangkok, you might recognise that name. The Emerald Buddha is now housed at Wat Phra Kaew within the Grand Palace complex, having been taken from Vientiane by Siamese forces in 1779.

Today, Haw Phra Kaew is no longer an active temple. Instead, it serves as a museum displaying religious art and Buddhist artefacts.

The building has been restored several times, but it’s still an impressive example of traditional Lao architecture.

We enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere, which was a lovely contrast to the busy streets outside.

Visiting Haw Phra Kaew

• Location: Setthathirath Road, opposite Wat Si Saket
• Opening hours: Generally daytime, sometimes closing for lunch
• Entrance fee: Around 30,000 kip for foreign visitors
• Allow: 30–45 minutes

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

Buddha Park was one of my favourite things to do in Vientiane, and I’d definitely recommend making the trip out here.

Located around 25 km from the city centre, Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, is an outdoor sculpture park filled with more than 200 weird and wonderful statues.

You’ll find enormous Buddhas, Hindu gods, mythical creatures and some particularly unusual figures.

The park was created in 1958 by Bunleua Sulilat, whose beliefs combined elements of Buddhism and Hinduism.

Despite looking ancient, the statues are relatively modern and made mostly from reinforced concrete.

One of the most impressive is an enormous reclining Buddha, around 40 metres long.

There’s also a giant pumpkin-shaped structure that you can enter through the mouth of a demon. Inside are different levels representing hell, earth and heaven, with stairs leading to a viewpoint overlooking the park.

I climbed to the top during our visit, and the view was fantastic.

Be aware that the stairs are narrow, steep and uneven. There have also been reports of age restrictions on climbing the structure, so check the signs when you visit.

I really enjoyed wandering around discovering the different sculptures. Some are beautiful, some are bizarre, and others left me wondering exactly what they were supposed to represent.

Getting there was part of the adventure for us, as we travelled by local bus.

There’s also a restaurant where we stopped for an inexpensive meal before returning to Vientiane.

Visiting Buddha Park

• Location: Around 25 km south-east of central Vientiane
• Opening hours: Generally 8 am to 5 pm daily
• Entrance fee: Around 60,000 kip for foreign visitors, based on recent reports
• Allow: 1–2 hours at the park, plus travelling time
• Getting there: Bus number 14, taxi, tuk-tuk or organised tour

Bus number 14 leaves from Vientiane Central Bus Station near Talat Sao and takes around 45–60 minutes each way.

It’s a cheap way to visit, and I’d happily take the bus again.

I’ve written a separate guide explaining exactly how to do it, including our experience making the journey.

Read my guide to getting to Buddha Park by bus from Vientiane.

If you’d rather not organise transport yourself, you can also take an organised tour.

See a guided tour that includes Buddha Park

COPE Visitor Centre

One of the most thought-provoking places to visit in Vientiane is the COPE Visitor Centre.

We didn’t make it here during our visit, but it’s somewhere I’d recommend considering, particularly if you’re interested in understanding more about Laos and its history.

Laos is often described as the most heavily bombed country in the world per capita, following extensive bombing during the Vietnam War era.

Large quantities of unexploded ordnance (UXO) remain in parts of the country, and accidents continue to affect local communities.

COPE, which stands for Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise, helps people with physical disabilities, including survivors of UXO accidents, access rehabilitation services and prosthetic devices.

The visitor centre explains the impact of the bombing through exhibits, personal stories and information about the work being done to help those affected.

It’s not the sort of attraction you visit for a fun afternoon, but it offers an important perspective on the country you’re travelling through.

Visiting COPE Visitor Centre

• Location: Centre for Medical Rehabilitation, Khouvieng Road
• Opening hours: Daily, 8.30 am to 4 pm
• Entrance fee: Free, with donations appreciated
• Allow: 45–90 minutes

Visit the official COPE website.

That Dam (Black Stupa)

That Dam, also known as the Black Stupa, is one of those attractions you might walk straight past without giving it a second glance.

We spotted it marked on a map while exploring Vientiane and decided to make a small detour to have a look.

To be honest, I had no idea what to expect.

What we found was a rather neglected-looking stupa sitting in the middle of a roundabout, with weeds growing out of its sides.

It certainly wasn’t as impressive as some of the other monuments we’d seen!

But what makes That Dam interesting isn’t so much how it looks today, but the legends surrounding it.

According to local legend, the stupa is home to a seven-headed naga, a mythical serpent believed to have protected Vientiane from invading Siamese forces.

It’s also said that the stupa was once covered in gold, which was stripped away during an invasion in the 19th century.

Whether that’s true or simply part of the legend is difficult to know, but it certainly makes this rather unassuming monument more interesting.

I wouldn’t suggest going too far out of your way, but if you’re exploring central Vientiane, it’s worth a quick stop.

Visiting That Dam

• Location: Rue Bartholonie, central Vientiane
• Entrance fee: Free
• Allow: 10–15 minutes

Vientiane Night Market and Mekong Riverfront

One of the best things to do in Vientiane in the evening is to head down to the Mekong River and explore the night market.

After a hot day sightseeing, it’s a lovely place to spend a couple of hours.

As the sun goes down, the riverfront comes alive with people enjoying the cooler temperatures, browsing the stalls and looking for something to eat.

When we visited, the market was packed with locals and tourists.

The stalls sold everything from clothing and souvenirs to electronics, beauty products and everyday essentials.

We actually picked up a few things we’d been running low on during our travels, and the prices were very reasonable.

It’s not necessarily the place to find unique handmade souvenirs, but if you enjoy wandering around markets like I do, it’s an entertaining way to spend an evening.

There are also food stalls and restaurants nearby.

Before exploring the market, take some time to walk along the Mekong riverfront.

You’ll be looking towards Thailand on the opposite bank, and on a clear evening, it’s a lovely place to watch the sunset.

The nearby Chao Anouvong Park is another popular spot for locals to gather and enjoy the evening.

Visiting Vientiane Night Market

• Location: Mekong riverfront near Chao Anouvong Park
• Opening hours: Generally from around 6 pm until 10 pm
• Entrance fee: Free
• Allow: 1–2 hours, including dinner

Lao National Museum

If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of Laos, the Lao National Museum is worth considering.

Unfortunately, we didn’t get to visit because it was closed for relocation when we were in Vientiane.

It has since reopened at a new location.

The museum explores Laos’s history, from its early civilisations and traditional culture through to French colonial rule, independence and the country’s more recent political history.

You’ll find historical artefacts, photographs and exhibits providing background to the places you might encounter during your travels.

It’s worth remembering that displays about modern political history may reflect the Lao government’s perspective.

Although I can’t give you a personal review, this would be a good option if you enjoy museums.

Visiting the Lao National Museum

• Location: Thongkhankham area, Vientiane
• Entrance fee: Check the current admission price
• Allow: 1–2 hours

Check current opening hours before visiting, as published information varies.

Wat Si Muang

While Vientiane has plenty of beautiful historic temples, Wat Si Muang offers something a little different.

It’s one of the city’s most important active Buddhist temples, and a popular place for local people to pray, make offerings and ask for good fortune.

The site dates back to the 16th century and is associated with the city’s guardian spirit.

According to local legend, a young woman named Si Muang sacrificed herself during the construction of the original city pillar, and her spirit continues to protect Vientiane.

Unlike some of the temples that are now primarily museums, Wat Si Muang remains a busy place of worship.

You’ll often see people bringing flowers, candles and other offerings, making it an opportunity to observe local traditions respectfully.

We didn’t visit Wat Si Muang ourselves, but it’s a worthwhile addition to a Vientiane itinerary, particularly if you’re interested in local culture.

Visiting Wat Si Muang

• Location: Setthathirath Road, central Vientiane
• Entrance fee: Generally free; donations appreciated
• Allow: 30–45 minutes

Remember to dress respectfully and avoid disturbing people who are praying.

Lao Textile Museum

If you’re interested in traditional crafts, the Lao Textile Museum is another place worth considering.

Located outside the city centre, this privately established museum is dedicated to preserving Lao textile traditions.

Laos has a long history of weaving beautiful silk and cotton fabrics, often featuring intricate patterns associated with different ethnic communities.

Visitors can learn about weaving techniques, natural dyes and the cultural importance of textiles.

There are displays of traditional clothing, antique fabrics and weaving equipment, all housed in traditional Lao-style wooden buildings.

We didn’t make it here, but it’s somewhere I’d consider on a return visit.

I particularly like attractions that help preserve traditional skills rather than simply selling mass-produced souvenirs.

Visiting the Lao Textile Museum

• Location: Ban Nongtha Tai, outside central Vientiane
• Entrance fee: Paid admission; confirm the latest price
• Allow: 1–1.5 hours

You’ll probably want to take a taxi or tuk-tuk, and I’d suggest checking opening hours before making the journey.

Talat Sao Morning Market

If you enjoy exploring local markets, Talat Sao is another place to add to your itinerary.

Despite the name, it’s generally open well beyond the morning.

Located in central Vientiane, Talat Sao is a shopping area selling clothing, fabrics, jewellery, household goods, electronics and everyday essentials.

It’s quite different from the night market beside the Mekong River.

Part of the shopping area has a more traditional market atmosphere, while other sections resemble a modern shopping centre.

Don’t expect a picturesque fresh-food market overflowing with colourful produce. This is more of an everyday shopping destination.

We walked past Talat Sao but didn’t go in. It was a bustling hive of activity with locals going about their usual shopping.

Visiting Talat Sao Morning Market

• Location: Lane Xang Avenue, central Vientiane
• Opening hours: Generally daytime shopping hours
• Entrance fee: Free
• Allow: 45–90 minutes

Other Things to Do in Vientiane

If you have longer in Vientiane, there are a few other experiences worth considering.

We didn’t do these ourselves, but they might appeal depending on your interests.

Take a Day Trip to Nam Ngum Reservoir

If you enjoy getting out of the city and exploring the countryside, consider a day trip to Nam Ngum Reservoir.

Located around 90 km north of Vientiane, this enormous artificial lake was created by the construction of the Nam Ngum hydroelectric dam.

The surrounding scenery includes forested hills and numerous small islands.

Visitors can take boat trips around the reservoir, enjoy the scenery and stop at restaurants around the lake.

It’s not somewhere we visited, but it could be an enjoyable day trip if you prefer peaceful scenery to temples and museums.

You’ll need most of a day, so I wouldn’t prioritise it if you only have one or two days in Vientiane.

Join a Lao Cooking Class

One of the best ways to learn about a country’s culture is through its food.

Lao cuisine has plenty of distinctive flavours and traditional dishes, including sticky rice, laap, green papaya salad and fish steamed in banana leaves.

A cooking class gives you the opportunity to learn how to prepare some of these dishes yourself.

Some classes include a visit to a local market to buy ingredients before heading into the kitchen.

Now, I’ll admit that cooking classes aren’t really my thing. I’m much happier eating the finished product than doing all the work!

But if you enjoy cooking, this could be a fun way to spend a few hours.

Browse Vientiane cooking classes

Take a Vientiane Food Tour

If you’re more like me and would rather eat than cook, a food tour might be a better choice.

One of the things I enjoy most about travelling is trying local food, but sometimes it’s difficult to know what to order or where to find the best places.

A guided food tour takes away some of that guesswork.

You’ll typically visit several local food spots, try traditional dishes and learn about Lao food culture along the way.

Some tours use tuk-tuks to travel between stops, which sounds like a fun way to experience the city after dark.

We didn’t do a food tour here, but it’s something I’d consider on a return visit.

Browse Vientiane food experiences

Explore Vientiane on a Guided City Tour

If you’re short on time or prefer having someone explain what you’re looking at, a guided city tour is another option.

Many tours combine attractions such as Patuxay Monument, Pha That Luang, Wat Si Saket and Buddha Park.

Some include transport and an English-speaking guide, making it easier to cover several attractions in one day.

We were happy to find our own way around Vientiane, but I can see the appeal of having someone organise everything, particularly in the heat.

Before booking, check which attractions and entrance fees are included.

Browse guided Vientiane tours.

Visit the Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre

If you prefer attractions that have a positive impact on the community, the Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre is worth considering.

This non-profit organisation provides vocational training and employment opportunities for women with disabilities.

Activities include sewing, weaving and handicrafts, helping participants develop skills and earn an income.

Visitors may be able to learn about the organisation’s work and purchase handmade products, with guided visits arranged in advance.

I like the idea of visiting somewhere that not only offers an interesting experience but also supports the people involved.

We didn’t visit ourselves, but it’s something I’d consider if I returned.

The centre is located on Thadeua Road, in the same general direction as Buddha Park.

Find out more about visiting the Lao Disabled Women’s Development Centre.

Do a Traditional Lao Costume Photoshoot

Now, this is something I only discovered after our visit to Vientiane, but I think it would be a lot of fun!

You can arrange a photoshoot wearing traditional Lao clothing, often featuring beautiful silk fabrics, intricate patterns and colourful accessories.

Women’s traditional outfits typically include a sinh, a woven skirt, paired with a blouse and sometimes a silk shoulder sash.

Depending on the experience you book, you may be able to have your hair and makeup done before heading to some of Vientiane’s most beautiful temples and landmarks for photos.

It’s a lovely way to appreciate traditional Lao clothing while coming home with something a little more memorable than the usual holiday snaps.

We didn’t get to try this ourselves, but I’d definitely consider it if I returned to Vientiane.

If you book a photoshoot, check whether clothing hire, hair and makeup, transport, photography and digital images are included in the price.

And remember to be respectful when taking photographs at religious sites, particularly if ceremonies are taking place.

It sounds like a fun way to spend a few hours, and you’d have some fantastic photos to remember your visit!

Explore the Lao Art Museum

For something a little different, the Lao Art Museum is another option, particularly if you enjoy traditional craftsmanship.

Opened in 2025, it features an impressive collection of intricately carved wooden sculptures and decorative artworks.

Many pieces are enormous, with elaborate designs featuring animals, mythical creatures and scenes inspired by Lao culture.

We didn’t visit, as it opened long after our trip, but the craftsmanship looks fascinating.

Admission is comparatively expensive by Lao standards, so I’d consider this an optional experience rather than a must-see attraction.

Allow around 1–2 hours, plus travelling time from central Vientiane.

Visit the Lao Art Museum website.

Other Places Worth Considering

If you have even more time, the Kaysone Phomvihane Memorial Museum explores the life of one of Laos’s most important revolutionary leaders and the country’s modern political history.

Tad Moon Waterfall is another possible outing, although it’s more of a series of rapids and rocky stretches of water than a spectacular waterfall. Water levels vary considerably by season.

We didn’t visit either, and I wouldn’t prioritise them during a short stay.

Where to Stay in Vientiane

Vientiane has accommodation ranging from inexpensive guesthouses to comfortable boutique hotels and international chains.

For most first-time visitors, I’d recommend staying near the Mekong River, Nam Phou Fountain or the streets around the night market.

You’ll be close to restaurants, markets and several major attractions.

We stayed a little further from the centre, and while we loved our hotel, it meant using tuk-tuks more often.

S Park Design Hotel – Where We Stayed

We stayed at S Park Design Hotel and thought it was fantastic value for money.

It’s a comfortable hotel with a swimming pool, gym, restaurant and everything we needed.

Our room included breakfast, which filled us up nicely before heading out to explore.

But my favourite part was definitely the pool.

I spent quite a bit of time relaxing beside the water, occasionally glancing towards the gym before quickly deciding the pool was a much better idea.

The hotel also has MUSSO Restaurant & Bar, where we enjoyed several meals.

The only downside was the location.

S Park Design Hotel is outside the main tourist area, so we generally needed a tuk-tuk to reach the centre.

That wasn’t a major problem for us, but if you’re only staying for one or two nights and want to walk everywhere, somewhere more central might suit you better.

For a longer stay, particularly if you’re looking for somewhere comfortable to relax between sightseeing, I thought it was excellent value.

Best for: Travellers wanting a comfortable hotel with a pool who don’t mind using transport to get around.

See S Park Design Hotel on Booking.com.

Salana Boutique Hotel – Best for a Central Location

If I returned to Vientiane for a short stay, I’d be tempted to choose somewhere like Salana Boutique Hotel.

Located in the central riverside area, it’s close to the Mekong River, night market, restaurants and several major attractions.

The hotel has comfortable rooms, a restaurant and spa facilities.

Its biggest advantage is the location.

We didn’t stay here ourselves, but it’s worth considering if you want to explore on foot.

Best for: Travellers who prioritise location and comfortable accommodation.

See Salana Boutique Hotel on Booking.com.

Crowne Plaza Vientiane – Best for a Little Luxury

If you’re looking for something more luxurious, Crowne Plaza Vientiane is another option.

We walked past this hotel several times during our stay, and it certainly looked impressive from the outside.

It’s a modern five-star hotel with spacious rooms, restaurants, a fitness centre, spa facilities and an outdoor infinity pool.

Depending on when you visit, you may find the prices reasonable compared with five-star accommodation in larger Asian cities.

We didn’t stay here, so I can’t comment on the rooms or service from personal experience.

Best for: Travellers wanting five-star comfort and excellent facilities.

See Crowne Plaza Vientiane.

My Recommendation

If you’re staying for only one or two nights, I’d prioritise location.

For a longer stay, a hotel with a pool can be a welcome luxury, particularly during the hotter months.

That’s why S Park Design Hotel worked so well for us.

We didn’t need to be out sightseeing every minute, and having somewhere comfortable to relax made our time in Vientiane more enjoyable.

Places to Eat and Drink in Vientiane

One of the things I love about travelling in South East Asia is the food, and Laos is no exception.

You’ll find everything from inexpensive street food to traditional Lao restaurants and international cuisine.

Because we were enjoying some downtime, we ate quite a few meals at our hotel rather than going out every night.

MUSSO Restaurant & Bar – Where We Ate

Since we were staying at S Park Design Hotel, MUSSO Restaurant & Bar was a convenient place to eat.

Fortunately, the food was good enough that we were happy to return!

It serves a mixture of Asian and international dishes and can have quite a lively atmosphere.

Some evenings there’s live music, and the restaurant takes on more of a bar or nightclub feel later in the night.

For us, it was an easy option after a day of exploring.

Other Restaurants to Try

We didn’t personally eat at these restaurants, but they’re worth considering.

Jamil Zahid Punjabi Restaurant is a popular option for Indian and Pakistani dishes, particularly if you’re craving a curry.

Joma Bakery Café is handy for sandwiches, pastries and lighter meals.

We actually visited a Joma Bakery in Luang Prabang rather than Vientiane and enjoyed the food there.

Traditional Lao Food to Try

Even if you don’t visit any of those restaurants, I’d recommend trying some local dishes.

• Laap (larb): A salad usually made with minced meat or fish, herbs, lime juice and toasted rice powder.
• Tam mak hoong: Lao-style green papaya salad, often spicy, salty and made with fermented ingredients.
• Khao piak sen: A comforting noodle soup made with thick, chewy rice noodles.
• Mok pa: Fish seasoned with herbs and spices, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
• Khao niao: Sticky rice, a staple of Lao cuisine, traditionally served in woven bamboo baskets.

You don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy good food in Laos. Sometimes the simplest local restaurants serve the most memorable meals.

Practical Information for Visiting Vientiane

Here are a few things worth knowing before arriving in the Lao capital.

Getting to Vientiane

By air

Wattay International Airport is around 5–6 km from central Vientiane, making airport transfers relatively straightforward.

By train

The Laos-China Railway opened in December 2021 and has made travel between Vientiane, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang much easier.

Passenger trains also continue north towards the Chinese border.

You can book tickets through the official LCR Ticket app, railway ticket offices or booking agents.

You’ll need passport details when booking.

Remember that Vientiane’s Laos-China Railway station is outside the city centre, so allow plenty of time to get there.

It’s different from Khamsavath Railway Station, which serves rail connections towards Thailand.

Getting from Wattay Airport to Vientiane

When we arrived, we found it easy to organise a taxi from the airport.

There are several options.

Airport taxis: Convenient if you’re arriving with luggage. Check the current fare at the airport rather than relying on older published prices.

Airport shuttle: A budget option when operating. Check current service times on arrival, as schedules can change.

Ride-hailing: LOCA is a local app that allows you to book a ride and see the fare in advance.

Private transfers: Convenient if you’re arriving late or want everything organised before your flight.

A pre-booked transfer can also be useful if you’re travelling with others or carrying a lot of luggage.

Getting Around Vientiane

Central Vientiane is reasonably walkable, although the heat can make sightseeing tiring.

We preferred heading out in the morning or later in the afternoon.

Walking: Good for central attractions, although footpaths can be uneven and shade is limited.

Tuk-tuks: Convenient for longer trips. Agree on the fare before getting in.

Ride-hailing apps: Useful if you prefer knowing the price in advance.

Local buses: Cheap but less convenient for some attractions. We used bus number 14 to reach Buddha Park and enjoyed the experience.

Money and Paying for Things

The official currency is the Lao kip (LAK).

When we visited, we withdrew cash from an ATM at the airport and used kip throughout our trip.

Cash is still useful for markets, street food, smaller restaurants and tuk-tuks.

ATMs are available around Vientiane, although withdrawal limits and fees vary.

Larger hotels and restaurants may accept credit cards.

QR-code payments are also increasingly common, with some services allowing international travellers to pay participating businesses using linked payment methods.

I’d still recommend carrying cash.

And keep an eye on all those zeros when paying. Even an ordinary purchase can involve some surprisingly large numbers!

SIM Cards, eSIMs and Wi-Fi

One thing I remember from our visit to Laos was that the Wi-Fi wasn’t particularly reliable.

Our hotel connection was reasonable, but free Wi-Fi in some restaurants and cafés was disappointing. It was even worse when we continued to Luang Prabang.

Of course, that was quite a few years ago, and I imagine Wi-Fi connections have improved considerably since then.

At the time, we were travelling mostly without local SIM cards, relying on Wi-Fi whenever we needed to get online. It generally worked well enough, although Laos certainly tested our patience!

These days, I prefer to have mobile data available wherever I travel, and I usually organise an eSIM before leaving home.

I use Airalo for my travels. It’s easy to set up, and I love being able to connect to a local mobile network without having to find a shop and buy a physical SIM card when I arrive.

You can also purchase a local SIM card at Wattay International Airport or from phone shops around Vientiane, which may work out cheaper if you’re staying in Laos for a while.

Whichever option you choose, having mobile data makes it much easier to use maps, book transport, check opening hours and look up information while you’re exploring.

My tip: If your phone supports eSIMs, consider organising one before you leave home. It’s one less thing to worry about when you arrive in a new country.

Best Time to Visit Vientiane

November to February generally offers the most comfortable sightseeing weather – we were there in January and it was already warm.

March and April can be extremely hot, while May to October is the rainy season.

Rain doesn’t necessarily stop you exploring, but you may experience heavy downpours and humid conditions.

Whenever you visit, remember to drink plenty of water and allow time for breaks.

We found having a hotel pool was a very welcome luxury!

Is Vientiane Safe to Visit?

Vientiane can be explored independently, but normal travel precautions are important.

Be careful with belongings in crowded areas, use reputable transport and take extra care around traffic.

Unexploded ordnance remains a hazard in some rural areas of Laos, so stay on established paths when travelling outside cities.

Another important issue is the risk of methanol poisoning from alcoholic drinks. Be cautious about where and what you drink, particularly spirits and cocktails.

The Australian Government currently advises travellers to exercise a high degree of caution in Laos, with higher advice levels for some areas.

Check the latest information on Smartraveller before leaving home.

Do Australians Need a Visa for Laos?

Australian passport holders generally need a visa to enter Laos.

Tourist visas are available through the official eVisa system and on arrival at eligible entry points.

Always check the latest requirements before travelling, including passport validity and which border crossings accept eVisas.

Laos has also introduced a digital immigration form for arrivals and departures. At the time of writing, travellers can still choose between the paper form and the digital system being trialled.

If using the Lao Digital Immigration Form, it must be completed within three days before entering or leaving the country.

Check the official Laos eVisa website and Smartraveller for current requirements.

How to Spend One Day in Vientiane

If you only have one day in Vientiane, you can still see several of the main attractions.

I’d focus on the central sights in the morning, head further out in the afternoon and finish beside the Mekong River.

Morning – Temples and History

Start at Wat Si Saket, then cross the road to Haw Phra Kaew.

Continue to That Dam, the Black Stupa sitting in the middle of a roundabout.

If you have time, stop at Talat Sao Morning Market before heading towards Patuxay Monument.

Climb Patuxay if it’s open, or simply enjoy the surrounding gardens.

Lunch – Take a Break

Find somewhere for a leisurely lunch and escape the heat.

One thing I learnt during our visit was that there’s no need to fill every minute with sightseeing.

Sometimes sitting somewhere cool with a drink is exactly what you need.

Afternoon – Pha That Luang

Take a taxi or tuk-tuk out to Pha That Luang to admire the golden stupa and surrounding buildings.

If you’re more interested in seeing a busy working temple, Wat Si Muang is another option.

Evening – Mekong River and Night Market

Finish with a stroll along the riverfront.

Watch the sunset if the weather cooperates, browse the night market and enjoy dinner nearby.

What About Buddha Park?

You might notice Buddha Park isn’t included in this one-day itinerary, even though it was one of my favourite attractions.

That’s because it’s around 25 km from the city centre and takes a fair amount of time to visit.

If Buddha Park is high on your list, I’d recommend going there in the morning and choosing just a couple of central attractions for the afternoon.

Alternatively, stay for two days so you can explore without rushing.

How to Spend Two Days in Vientiane

With two days, you can see the main sights at a much more relaxed pace.

Day 1: Explore central Vientiane, including Wat Si Saket, Haw Phra Kaew, That Dam and Patuxay Monument. Make time to visit the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the lasting impact of unexploded ordnance in Laos. Finish your day with a sunset stroll along the Mekong riverfront and a wander through the night market.

Day 2: Visit Buddha Park in the morning, then head to Pha That Luang to see the impressive golden stupa. If you still have time and energy, you could also visit Wat Si Muang or one of the museums.

You’ll still have time for a leisurely lunch, a little market shopping or perhaps a few hours relaxing beside the hotel pool.

That’s how I’d prefer to visit Vientiane. You get to enjoy the highlights without racing from one attraction to the next.

Frequently Asked Questions About Vientiane

How many days do you need in Vientiane?

One or two days is enough for most visitors to see Vientiane’s main attractions. I’d recommend two days if you want to visit Buddha Park, explore the temples and museums, and enjoy the city without rushing.

What is Vientiane best known for?

Vientiane is best known for its Buddhist temples and monuments, particularly Pha That Luang, Patuxay Monument and Wat Si Saket. Buddha Park, just outside the city, is another popular attraction.

Is Vientiane walkable?

Central Vientiane is reasonably walkable, with several temples, markets and other attractions close together. However, the heat can make walking tiring, and you’ll need transport for places such as Buddha Park and Pha That Luang.

Is Vientiane expensive to visit?

Vientiane can be a relatively inexpensive destination, particularly if you eat at local restaurants, use public transport and choose budget or mid-range accommodation. Many attractions have modest entrance fees, although guided tours and international hotels can cost considerably more.

Is Vientiane worth visiting or should I skip it?

I think Vientiane is worth visiting for a day or two, especially if it’s already on your route through Laos. It’s much quieter than many other South East Asian capitals, but there are some interesting attractions and it’s a good place to slow down for a while.

Is Vientiane Worth Visiting?

I’ve been asked a few times whether Vientiane is worth visiting, and my answer is yes, but with a few qualifications.

If you’re expecting a bustling Asian capital with endless attractions and exciting nightlife, Vientiane might leave you a little underwhelmed.

It’s certainly not as lively as Bangkok or Hanoi, and I personally preferred Luang Prabang when we travelled through Laos.

But that doesn’t mean Vientiane isn’t worth your time.

There are some beautiful temples, interesting historical sites and unusual attractions, with Buddha Park being a particular favourite of mine.

I also enjoyed the slower pace.

We deliberately used Vientiane as an opportunity to take a break from constantly travelling and sightseeing. Spending a few hours beside the hotel pool was just as much a part of our visit as exploring the city.

Sometimes you don’t need to be doing something every minute to enjoy a destination.

For most travellers, I’d recommend spending one or two days in Vientiane, particularly if you’re travelling between Thailand, Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang.

Would I go back? Yes, although there are other places in Laos I’d probably prioritise first.

But if Vientiane is on your travel route, I certainly wouldn’t skip it.

It might not be the most exciting capital city in South East Asia, but it has its own charm, and sometimes a slower travel day is exactly what you need.

For further travel in Asia, these posts will be useful
Langkawi Itinerary – 5 Days in Langkawi
Best Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam
Is Marina Bay Sands Worth It?

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