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Vientiane, ປະເທດລາວ - Things to Do in Vientiane

Things to Do in Vientiane

Vientiane, ປະເທດລາວ - Complete Travel Guide

Vientiane, the laid-back capital of Laos, sits gracefully along the banks of the Mekong River, offering visitors a charming blend of French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and Southeast Asian culture. Unlike other bustling capital cities in the region, Vientiane maintains a peaceful, almost village-like atmosphere where golden stupas rise above tree-lined boulevards and traditional markets coexist with French-influenced cafes. The city serves as the perfect introduction to Laotian culture, with its ornate temples, vibrant night markets, and the iconic That Luang stupa dominating the skyline. This UNESCO World Heritage-adjacent city provides an authentic glimpse into traditional Lao life while offering modern amenities for travelers. From exploring ancient Buddhist monasteries to sampling sticky rice and laap at local eateries, Vientiane rewards visitors who appreciate cultural immersion over high-energy attractions. The city's compact size makes it easily walkable, while the Mekong riverfront provides stunning sunset views and a relaxed evening atmosphere perfect for unwinding after days of temple-hopping and market exploration.

Top Things to Do in Vientiane

Explore Buddhist Temples and Stupas

Visit the magnificent That Luang, Laos' most important national monument and Buddhist stupa, along with beautiful temples like Wat Si Saket and Wat Ho Phra Keo. These sacred sites showcase intricate Lao architecture, golden Buddhas, and peaceful monastery grounds where you can observe daily religious practices. The temples offer insight into Theravada Buddhism and feature stunning murals, carved wooden details, and serene meditation spaces.

Booking Tip: Most temples charge small entrance fees (10,000-20,000 kip, about $1-2). Visit early morning (6-8am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) for the best lighting and cooler temperatures. Dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees, and remove shoes before entering temple buildings.

Stroll Along the Mekong Riverfront

Walk or cycle along the scenic Mekong River promenade, especially beautiful during sunset when the sky turns golden over the water. The riverfront area comes alive in the evening with food stalls, local families gathering, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for people-watching. You can also take boat trips on the Mekong or simply enjoy drinks at riverside restaurants while watching life unfold along this mighty river.

Booking Tip: The riverfront is free to explore on foot. Bicycle rentals cost around $2-3 per day from guesthouses. River sunset cruises typically cost $15-25 per person and should be booked through your accommodation or local tour operators.

Shop at Traditional Markets

Experience authentic Lao culture at the bustling Morning Market (Talat Sao) and the evening night market along the Mekong. These markets offer everything from traditional textiles and handicrafts to local street food and fresh produce. The night market is particularly atmospheric, with vendors selling Lao silk, wood carvings, and traditional clothing under colorful lights while the aroma of grilled meats and sticky rice fills the air.

Booking Tip: Markets operate daily with Morning Market open 6am-6pm and night market from 5pm-10pm. Bring cash (Lao kip or US dollars) and be prepared to bargain politely. Start at about 50% of the asking price for handicrafts and work up from there.

Sample Local Cuisine and Street Food

Dive into Lao culinary traditions by trying local specialties like laap (meat salad), tam mak hoong (papaya salad), and sticky rice served in traditional bamboo baskets. Visit local restaurants, street food stalls, and traditional markets to experience authentic flavors including fresh herbs, fermented fish sauce, and unique preparations you won't find elsewhere. Don't miss trying Lao coffee, known for its strong, sweet flavor typically served over ice.

Booking Tip: Street food meals cost $1-3, while restaurant meals range $3-8. Look for busy stalls with high turnover for freshness. Food tours cost around $25-35 per person and include multiple tastings with cultural explanations from local guides.

Visit Patuxai Victory Monument and Surroundings

Climb the Patuxai (Victory Gate), Vientiane's answer to the Arc de Triomphe, for panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside. This war memorial combines traditional Lao architectural elements with French influences, and the surrounding park area is popular with locals for evening walks and exercise. The monument area also features fountains, gardens, and is beautifully illuminated at night, making it a perfect spot for photos and city orientation.

Booking Tip: Entrance fee is 3,000 kip (about $0.30) to climb to the top viewing levels. Best visited in late afternoon for city views and sunset. The area is easily walkable from the city center, or take a tuk-tuk for about $2-3.

Getting There

Wattay International Airport (VTE) is located about 4km from downtown Vientiane, with direct flights from major Southeast Asian cities including Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Siem Reap. Most international visitors fly via Bangkok, which offers multiple daily connections. From the airport, taxis cost around $7-10 to the city center, while tuk-tuks charge $3-5. Alternatively, you can reach Vientiane overland from Thailand via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge from Nong Khai, or take buses from other Lao cities like Luang Prabang (6-7 hours) or Pakse (8-9 hours).

Getting Around

Vientiane is compact and easily walkable, with most attractions within a few kilometers of each other. Tuk-tuks are the most common form of transport for longer distances, costing $1-3 for short trips within the city center. Bicycle rentals ($2-3 per day) are popular and practical given the flat terrain and relatively light traffic. Motorbike rentals are available for $5-8 per day but require caution due to local driving habits. For day trips outside the city, hire a tuk-tuk driver for the full day ($25-35) or join organized tours through your accommodation.

Where to Stay

City Center/Downtown
Mekong Riverfront
That Luang Area
Morning Market District
Fountain Circle (Nam Phou)
Wat Si Saket Neighborhood

Food & Dining

Vientiane's food scene beautifully blends traditional Lao cuisine with French colonial influences, creating a unique culinary landscape. Street food stalls and local markets offer authentic experiences with dishes like laap, sticky rice, and fresh spring rolls at incredibly affordable prices. The city center features numerous family-run restaurants serving traditional Lao fare, while French-influenced bistros and bakeries reflect the colonial heritage with excellent baguettes, pastries, and coffee. The Mekong riverfront area offers scenic dining options ranging from casual beer gardens to upscale restaurants with river views, and the night market provides an excellent opportunity to sample various local snacks and grilled specialties in a vibrant atmosphere.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Laos

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Popolo Restaurant

4.6 /5
(1325 reviews) 2
bar

PDR - Pizza da Roby

4.7 /5
(1197 reviews) 1

Dok Mai Lao Trattoria

4.6 /5
(890 reviews) 2

The Italian Job

4.6 /5
(481 reviews) 2

525 Eat & Drink

4.8 /5
(449 reviews)
bar cafe

Soul Kitchen

4.5 /5
(394 reviews) 2

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Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Vientiane is during the cool, dry season from November to March when temperatures are pleasant (20-30°C/68-86°F) and rainfall is minimal. December and January offer the most comfortable weather with clear skies perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The hot season (April-May) can be uncomfortably warm with temperatures reaching 35-40°C (95-104°F), while the rainy season (June-October) brings heavy afternoon downpours and high humidity, though fewer crowds and lush green landscapes. November and March represent sweet spots with good weather and fewer tourists than peak season.

Insider Tips

Many restaurants and shops close during the afternoon siesta (12pm-2pm), so plan your activities accordingly
Learn basic Lao greetings like 'sabaidee' (hello) - locals greatly appreciate the effort and it often leads to warmer interactions
Always remove your shoes before entering temples and homes, and point your feet away from Buddha statues when sitting

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