This blog post is all about a 10 days in Laos travel route and itinerary.
When planning a trip around Southeast Asia, Laos often gets overlooked in favour of its more touristy neighbours like Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia.
But don’t make the mistake of skipping this laid-back, culturally rich, and visually stunning country. It just might become your favourite stop.
With peaceful temples, jungle-covered mountains, riverfront towns and one of the most scenic train journeys in Southeast Asia, Laos has so much to offer, especially if you like your travel a little more slow-paced and authentic.
This 10 days in Laos travel itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors. It takes you from the quiet capital of Vientiane, up into the adventure hotspot of Vang Vieng, and finally to the cultural heart of the country, Luang Prabang.
You’ll get a real mix of Lao life, landscapes and experiences.
RELATED 10 Days in Laos blog posts to read:
- How to Travel From Laos to Thailand by 2-Day Slow Boat
- Vientiane Travel Guide: How to Spend 3 Days Here
- What to Do in Vang Vieng Laos: Perfect 3 Day Itinerary
- How to Spend 2 Days in Luang Prabang Laos: Perfect Itinerary
- Syri Guesthouse Laos Review: The Best Boutique Vientiane Hotel
Why Visit Laos?
Laos is the only landlocked country in Southeast Asia, bordered by Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, China and Myanmar.
While it may not have beaches, it more than makes up for it with its lush landscapes, friendly people, and a peaceful vibe that’s hard to find elsewhere.
What makes Laos so special is how uncommercialised and relaxed it still feels compared to its neighbours.
Things move slower here (in the best way), and it’s a great place to reconnect with nature, take your time, and enjoy authentic experiences without the crowds.
Need-to-Know Info About Laos
Before we dive into this 10 days in Laos itinerary, here are a few practical bits:
- Currency: Lao Kip (LAK). Many places in tourist hubs also accept Thai Baht and US Dollars, but you’ll want local cash for street food, tuk tuks and small shops.
- Visa: Most nationalities can get a visa on arrival or e-visa for a small fee. Always check the latest entry requirements.
- Language: Lao is the official language, but in tourist areas, English is spoken to some degree.
- Transport: While Laos used to rely heavily on long, bumpy bus journeys, the high-speed rail network now connects major towns, making travel much easier (more on that below).
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most cafés and hotels, but it’s not always fast. I’d recommend buying an Airalo eSIM if you need reliable data for your 10 days in Laos.
How to Get Around in Laos
Thanks to a brand-new high-speed rail system, getting between Vientiane, Vang Vieng, and Luang Prabang has never been easier.
These sleek Chinese-built trains have slashed journey times and added comfort. But there are a few things to know:
- No liquids or sprays allowed: Think of it like an airport. Your water bottles, sunscreen and bug spray will likely be confiscated at security.
- Booking: You can book in person at stations or via local travel agencies. Tickets go quickly, so book early.
- Alternative: If you want to avoid train security restrictions or carry lots of luggage, buses and minivans are still widely available and cheaper (albeit slower). I’d recommend booking any of your transport with 12Go Asia.
10 Days in Laos Travel Itinerary
Below is how I would spend your 10 days in Laos, using this Laos itinerary. This is the route that we followed ourselves and highly enjoyed!
10 Days in Laos: Days 1–3 in Vientiane
Vientiane might be the quietest capital city in Asia.
It’s more like a large town than a buzzing metropolis, with colonial French architecture, peaceful temples and a riverside perfect for sunset strolls.
Best Things to Do in Vientiane:
- Visit Pha That Luang: Laos’ most important religious monument, a golden stupa symbolising the country’s Buddhist identity.
- Climb Patuxay Victory Monument: A war memorial that looks a bit like the Arc de Triomphe, with sweeping views from the top.
- COPE Visitor Centre: One of the most impactful museums in Laos, telling the story of UXO (unexploded ordnance) and the ongoing effects of war.
- Wat Si Saket: One of the oldest temples in the city, with hundreds of Buddha images and a peaceful courtyard.
- Sunset by the Mekong: Head to the riverside promenade for street food, cold Beerlao and a beautiful end to your day.
Vientiane is more about soaking up the slow pace and culture than racing around doing activities. It’s a gentle start to your 10 days in Laos adventure.
RELATED Vientiane blog posts to read:
- Vientiane Travel Guide: How to Spend 3 Days Here
- Syri Guesthouse Laos Review: The Best Boutique Vientiane Hotel
10 Days in Laos: Days 4–6 in Vang Vieng
Once known for wild tubing parties, Vang Vieng has thankfully matured.
While you can still float down the river with a drink in hand, the focus now is on adventure, nature, and laid-back exploration.
Surrounded by dramatic limestone cliffs and rice fields, Vang Vieng is one of the most beautiful places in the country.
Best Things to Do in Vang Vieng:
- Kayak or tube down the Nam Song River: Choose your pace (lazy or adventurous) and float past stunning mountain views.
- Explore Blue Lagoons: There are several to choose from, with Blue Lagoon 1 being the most popular (and crowded). For fewer people, head to Blue Lagoon 3 or 5.
- Hike to the Nam Xay Viewpoint: A sweaty climb, but the reward is one of the most Instagrammed views in Laos, motorbike included.
- Cave exploring: Visit Tham Phu Kham or Tham Chang, two of the most accessible and impressive caves in the area.
- Hot air balloon ride: For a splurge, this is one of the cheapest places in the world to go ballooning. And the views at sunrise are unforgettable.
Vang Vieng is the place to get active and immerse yourself in the landscape, whether it’s by bike, kayak or just hiking your way to another view.
RELATED blog post to read: What to Do in Vang Vieng Laos: Perfect 3 Day Itinerary
10 Days in Laos: Days 7–10 in Luang Prabang
Save the best for last for your 10 days in Laos.
Luang Prabang is one of the most beautiful and atmospheric towns in Southeast Asia. With UNESCO heritage status, French colonial buildings, riverside cafés, night markets and golden temples. It’s a place you’ll want to stay forever.
We spent four days here and easily could have stayed longer.
Best Things to Do in Luang Prabang:
- Kuang Si Waterfalls: Possibly the most stunning waterfall in Southeast Asia. Swim in turquoise pools, walk to the top and visit the nearby bear sanctuary.
- Luang Prabang Night Market: Open every night from around 5pm, it’s packed with souvenirs, crafts and street food. A must-visit.
- Alms Giving Ceremony: Wake up before dawn to witness (respectfully) the Buddhist monks collecting offerings of rice along the quiet streets.
- Climb Mount Phousi: For sunset views over the Mekong and the city rooftops. There’s a small fee, but the 360-degree views are worth it.
- Visit temples: Wat Xieng Thong and Wat Mai are two of the most impressive temples in town.
- Take a cooking class: Learn how to make traditional Lao dishes like laap and mok pa at one of the local cooking schools.
Luang Prabang has a calm, spiritual feel. It’s somewhere that invites you to slow down, eat well, and appreciate the little things.
Four days here is just enough to really take it all in during your 10 days in Laos.
RELATED blog post to read: How to Spend 2 Days in Luang Prabang Laos: Perfect Itinerary
The Famous Laos to Thailand Slow Boat
If you have time after Luang Prabang and want a travel experience to remember, take the slow boat from Luang Prabang to Northern Thailand to round out your 10 days in Laos.
This two-day journey along the Mekong River is scenic, peaceful and incredibly unique.
- You’ll stop overnight in Pakbeng, a small riverside town.
- The final stop is Huay Xai, where you can cross the border into Thailand (usually Chiang Khong, then on to Chiang Rai or Chiang Mai).
- Bring snacks, a good book, and prepare for a very chilled, scenic ride.
I highly recommend this over flying. You’ll meet fellow travellers and see a part of Laos that’s completely off the tourist trail.
It was one of the most memorable journeys of our time backpacking Southeast Asia.
RELATED Slow Boat blog posts to read:
- How to Travel From Laos to Thailand by 2-Day Slow Boat
- How to Get From Thailand to Laos: Ultimate Guide
Spending 10 Days in Laos
Laos may not be as developed as Thailand or Vietnam, but that’s exactly what makes it so special.
It still feels raw and real, and while it may take a bit more effort to travel around, the rewards are huge.
The addition of the high-speed rail makes it more accessible than ever, but just remember: it’s not all smooth sailing. Bring bug spray, but don’t pack it if you’re going by train!
If you’re planning a trip through Southeast Asia, give Laos the time it deserves. This 10 days in Laos route is the perfect way to see the highlights and fall in love with this under-appreciated gem.
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