Visit Vientiane: Top 10 Best Things To Do & See

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is a place that combines both historical significance and contemporary charm. Located on the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane combines a laid-back atmosphere with a rich cultural heritage.

Unlike many capital cities, Vientiane has a slow and relaxed pace of life. It’s where you can truly relax and take a stroll along the Mekong River.

Join Hanoi Voyages to discover things to do when visit Vientiane, the best hotels, the best time to visit, local foods you must try and much more for a perfect Vientiane travel itinerary.

Best time to visit Vientiane

Vientiane experiences a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons.

• Dry Season (November to April): During this period, the weather is relatively cool and dry. This is an excellent time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city without the risk of heavy rain. From November to February, it is clear skies, lower humidity, and cooler temperatures.
• Hot Season (March to May): The hot season can be scorching, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F) in April and May. Humidity levels are high, and it can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities.
• Wet Season (May to October): It is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity. August is typically the wettest month.

In summary, the best time to visit Vientiane for most tourists is during the dry season, from November to February, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

Things to do in Vientiane

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

When visiting Vientiane, you’ll need to go out of the city to visit Xieng Khuang. This is the infamous Buddha Park and it is somewhat bizarre.

Located just outside Vientiane, this park is filled with quirky and surreal sculptures, including a giant reclining Buddha. The Buddha Park is also known as Xieng Khuang, this is a sculpture park. It was started in 1958 by monk and sculpture artist, Bunleua Sulila. and contains more than 200 statues and Hindu and Buddhist sculptures.

The entrance fee is 5,000 Kip per person.

Pha That Luang

Exterior of Pha That Luang Temple (Great golden stupa in Vientiane) – Laos in-depth tour Phra That Luang – the Great Stupa is the National Symbol of Laos and a must-visit. It’s not only a beautiful monument but also an important religious site. It was founded in the 3rd century to house the breastbone of Buddha, which was brought to Laos by an Indian missionary.

Pha That Luang was built in 1566, at the time that Vientiane was confirmed as the capital of Laos. Standing at 44 meters, Pha That Luang has a pinnacle covered in real gold, with a set of painted turrets surrounding its central stupa.

Wat Si Saket

This temple is famous for its thousands of Buddha statues and is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane. Wat Si Saket is located in the center of Vientiane, not far from the city’s most famous landmark, Pha That Luang. It’s easily accessible and often included on city tours.

Wat Si Saket is famous for being the only surviving temple in Laos from before the invasion of Siam in 1828. Unfortunately, much of the city was destroyed during this time, but the temple was spared and you can now visit to see the 5,000 Buddha sculptures that it is also famous for.

Wat Si Muang

Wat Si Muang is one of the most popular temples in Vientiane and is a great place to visit if you want to see some of the finest Laotian Buddhist design work in the country.

This temple is known for its spiritual significance and colorful decor. Wat Si Muang is associated with a local legend. It is believed that a young pregnant woman named Si Muang sacrificed herself during the construction of the temple to appease the spirits. Because of this legend, the temple is considered particularly potent for granting wishes and protection.

Patuxai (Victory gate)

The monument was built between 1957 and 1968 as a tribute to those who fought for Laos’ independence from France. Its design is reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, which is why it’s often called the “Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane”.

It is however also carved with symbols of Hindu Gods and has an additional five towers which resemble traditional Laotian buildings making this something of an East meets West kind of attraction.

Around Patuxai, there is also a pleasant park with shaded areas and benches. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Haw Pha Kaew

Haw Pha Kaew, also spelled Ho Phra Keo, is a historic temple located in the city center of Vientiane, close to other major attractions such as Pha That Luang and Patuxai.

Haw Pha Kaew was built in 1565 and is also one of the most spectacular buildings in the city.

It is famous as it used to be the location of the famous Emerald Buddha statues which were stolen by Laotian royalty from Thailand before being retaken in 1778 and returned.

Visit the COPE visitor Center

The COPE is known as the Cooperative Orthotic and Prosthetic Enterprise and is a charity in Vientiane that aims to treat and rehabilitate locals who have been the victims of unexploded landmines left over from the Vietnam War.

The center often offers guided tours, which can provide a more in-depth understanding of the UXO issue and COPE’s work. Check in advance to see if guided tours are available during your visit.

Presidential palace of Vientiane

The Presidential Palace, also known as “Haw Kham” in Lao, is an iconic landmark in Vientiane. The Presidential Palace is located near the city center of Vientiane, making it easily accessible by foot, tuk-tuk, or taxi. It is situated in a prominent area near the Mekong River.

The palace was originally built in the early 1970s as a residence for the Lao monarchy, but it was never used for its intended purpose due to the political changes in Laos. Today, it serves as an important government building.

Laos National Museum

The Laos National Museum, also known as the Lao National History Museum or Royal Palace Museum, is an excellent place to learn about the history and culture of Laos.

The museum is housed in a historic French colonial-era building that was originally constructed as a royal residence for the Lao monarchy. Today, it serves as a museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing Laos’ cultural heritage.

The museum features a diverse range of exhibits that cover various aspects of Lao history and culture. You can expect to see artifacts, textiles, sculptures, religious objects, and more.

Vientiane Night Market

The Vientiane Night Market is a delightful way to experience the local culture and enjoy a variety of food, shopping, and entertainment options. The Vientiane Night Market is located along the Mekong River waterfront in the city.

The market typically opens in the late afternoon or early evening, around sunset, and stays open until around 10 pm or later. The exact opening and closing times may vary depending on the season and day of the week.

One of the highlights of the night market is the food section. You can sample a variety of Lao dishes and street food, including grilled meats, noodles, and fresh fruit.

Local foods and restaurants in Vientiane

Local foods and drink

Restaurants in Vientiane

Lao Kitchen

Lao Kitchen, located near the waterfront and with a pleasant ambiance, serves a variety of authentic Laotian dishes such as grilled Mekong fish, Pakse-style pork sausage, bamboo shoot stew. The restaurant also offers vegetarian options to cater to specific needs.

Khop Chai Deu

Khop Chai Deu, located in a colonial building close to the Nam Phu Fountain in central Vientiane, is a popular spot for expats, backpackers and tourists in a relaxed atmosphere. It serves traditional Laotian and international cuisine as well as vegetarian options.

Kualao Restaurant

Kualao Restaurant serves many Lao traditional foods in an upscale setting, including papaya salad, handmade Lao sausage, deep fried Mekong fish, spring rolls, etc. While having dinning here, you can also enjoy traditional Lao dance and music performances.

L’Addresse – Cuisine by Tinay

L’Adresse – Cuisine by Tinay is a traditional French restaurant just behind the 16th-century Wat Ong Teu. You’ll find classic starters such as goat cheese rolls and tuna tartare, and main courses like confit duck cassoulet and beef tenderloin stuffed with foie gras. Dining here, you can sense real passion on every dish with highly trained and very professional staffs.

Best hotels in Vientiane

Salana Boutique Hotel

The Salana Boutique hotel has a Lao contemporary style which is finished by real timber wood promoting a real sense of comfort and class. The price ranges from 70 USD per night.

Green Park Boutique Hotel

Set amidst lush gardens, this boutique hotel offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the city. Boasting classic Lao architecture, it features an outdoor pool with an attached plunge pool, a spa, and rooms with private balconies. The cost is approximately 105 USD per night.

Lao Plaza Hotel

Lao Plaza Holtel has been welcoming guests since 1997 and is located in the heart of Vientiane, a city famous for its temples and monuments. The Lao National Museum and the Lao Natural Cultural Hall are only 200 meters away. A short walk from the property will take you to restaurants and cafes. It is the best place to enjoy your life. Prices start at 135 USD per night.

Muong Thanh Luxury Vientiane Hotel

As one of the highest 5-star hotel buildings, located at the center of Vientiane capital, Muong Thanh Luxury Vientiane Hotel captures both the modern and cultural architecture of Southeast Asia. The hotel is approximately 2 km from the famous Patouxay Monument. The price is approximately 109 USD per night.

Crowne Plaza Vientiane

Ideal for both business and leisure travelers, Crowne Plaza Vientiane features rooms that combine traditional Lao with modern conveniences to ensure a relaxing stay. The price starts at 100 USD per night.

Transportations in Vientiane

Transportation in Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, offers several options for getting around the city and exploring the surrounding areas. Here are the main modes of transportation you can use in Vientiane:

Tuk-Tuks

In Vientiane, tuk-tuks are a popular and convenient mode of transportation. These three-wheeled vehicles can be found throughout the city and are often used for short trips within the city. Tuk-tuks are a flexible and affordable option for getting around.

Taxis

Taxis tend to congregate in congested areas, such as markets and bus terminals. Be sure the taxi driver uses the meter or agrees on a fare before starting your journey. Taxi services are generally more expensive than tuk-tuks but they are more comfortable and air-conditioned.

Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals

If you have experience riding a motorcycle or scooter, you can rent one in Vientiane. However, be cautious as traffic can be busy and road conditions vary. Always wear a helmet and have the necessary licenses and insurance.

Buses

The public bus system in Vientiane is limited, but not as extensive as in other cities. Bus routes are generally used by locals and may not be very convenient for tourists. The fare is usually very affordable.

How to get to Vientiane

Bangkok to Vientiane

The best way to get from Bangkok to Vientiane is to fly which takes over 4 hours and costs 95 – 230 USD. You can also take the train, which costs 9 – 75 USD and takes over 9 hours, or the bus via Nong Khai, which costs 13 – 26 USD and takes 12 hours 27 minutes.

Siem Reap to Vientiane

The best way to get from Vientiane to Siem Reap is to fly which takes over 6 hours and costs 150 – 290 USD. Alternatively, you can bus via Bangkok, which costs 26 – 55 USD and takes 19h hours 27 minutes.

Luang Prabang to Vientiane

Traveling by plane is considered the easiest and most convenient mode of transportation. It will take you about 40 – 50 minutes for a Luang Prabang to Vientiane flight.

Alternatively, you can take a bus. It’s the cheapest way to get from Luang Prabang to Vientiane is by bus which costs 22 – 35 USD and takes 6 hours 8 minutes.

Practical information about Vientiane

Vientiane postcode

According to a survey conducted by the Mekong River Commission (MRC) in 2004, Vientiane’s (Capital City of Lao P.D.R) official postal code is 01000, and it has been used for all name cards since then.

Vientiane Hospitals

Vientiane has several hospitals and medical facilities to provide residents and visitors with healthcare services.

Mahosot Hospital (also known as Mahosot General Hospital)

Mahosot Hospital is one of Vientiane’s largest and best-known public hospitals. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Health Sciences and provides a wide range of medical services.

Mittaphab Friendship Hospital

Foreigners who live in Laos are likely to be familiar with this hospital. It’s a low-cost and good option. Probably even the best public hospital in Vientiane. The hospital is really well equipped. Even better than some private hospitals and medical centers.