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Vientiane, Laos

Destination Guide

Vientiane

Laos

Best things to do in Vientiane

12 curated attractions in Vientiane, Laos. Handpicked for every kind of traveler.

Best time

November - February

Average temp

28°C/82°F

Budget

Budget-friendly

Safety

Generally safe

About Vientiane

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is known for its laid-back atmosphere and French colonial architecture. Visitors often explore the city to see landmarks like the Patuxai Victory Monument and the golden Pha That Luang stupa. The Mekong riverside is a popular spot for evening walks and sampling local street food. The Morning Market, or Talat Sao, offers a glimpse into local commerce and is a place to find traditional handicrafts. While not a nightlife hub, Vientiane offers a relaxed pace with cafes and restaurants lining streets like Rue Samsenthai.

Who it's for

Backpackers, culture enthusiasts, and travelers seeking a slower pace will enjoy Vientiane.

Getting around

Public transport: Limited

  • The city is small enough to explore on foot or by bicycle. Tuk-tuks are widely available for longer distances.
Pha That Luang Vientiane

Pha That Luang Vientiane

Landmark
Wat Sisaket

Wat Sisaket

Temple
Talat Sao

Talat Sao

Market
Chao Anouvong Park

Chao Anouvong Park

Park
Si Phan Don

Si Phan Don

Temple
Vientiane Night Market

Vientiane Night Market

Market
Wat Si Muang Temple

Wat Si Muang Temple

Temple
Patuxai

Patuxai

Landmark
Ban Anou Night Market

Ban Anou Night Market

Market
COPE Visitor Centre

COPE Visitor Centre

Museum
Lao National Museum

Lao National Museum

Museum
Lao Textile Museum

Lao Textile Museum

Museum

Where to eat in Vientiane

The places worth planning a meal around.

Green Park Boutique Hotel

Green Park Boutique Hotel

Il Forno

Il Forno

Italian

Kualao Restaurant

Kualao Restaurant

Laotian

Friendly Restaurant

Friendly Restaurant

Laotian, International

Julee Restaurant

Julee Restaurant

Lao, French

Joma Bakery Café Nam Phou Joma Bakery & Cafe ໂຈມາ ເບເກີຣີ ແລະ ຄາເຟ່

Joma Bakery Café Nam Phou Joma Bakery & Cafe ໂຈມາ ເບເກີຣີ ແລະ ຄາເຟ່

Bakery, Café

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