This blog post is all about a Vientiane Travel Guide.
Welcome to Vientiane, the laid-back capital city of Laos and your Vientiane travel guide.
Situated along the banks of the Mekong River, Vientiane is a city where you can slow down, soak in the surroundings, and enjoy the simple pleasures of life.
Vientiane may not have the hustle and bustle of other capitals, but its charm lies in its tranquillity and cultural richness. From ancient temples to delicious local cuisine, this city provides a gentle yet captivating introduction to the beauty of Laos.
Vientiane is remarkably quiet, especially compared to other Southeast Asian countries.
It is without doubt the quietest capital city we have ever been to. We took a slow approach to Vientiane and stayed for three nights, including a whole day in a coffee shop working on our laptops.
If you want to, you could tick everything off here in one whole day from this Vientiane travel guide and still have some time to kill.
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This blog post is all about a Vientiane travel guide.
Vientiane Travel Guide: How to Get to Vientiane, Laos
We decided to fly into Vientiane from Hanoi, Vietnam. There is the option to take a 24-hour bus across the border, which a lot of backpackers do.
However, we had seen so many horror stories on TikTok that we decided to avoid it and chose to fly instead.
If you’re coming into Laos from Thailand, you might choose to take the two-day boat into Luang Prabang, Laos. We did this (the opposite way) to get from Luang Prabang to Chiang Mai and I would highly recommend it!
You can read this blog post to find out everything you need to know about taking the two-day boat from Laos to Thailand and vice versa.
RELATED Vientiane Travel Guide blog post to read: How to Travel From Laos to Thailand by 2-Day Slow Boat
Vientiane Travel Guide: 12 Things to Do in Vientiane
Vientiane travel guide: Below are the top 12 things to do in Vientiane, Laos.
1. Ho Phra Keo Museum: This former temple, now a museum, houses a stunning collection of Lao and Khmer art, including sculptures, carvings, and artefacts.
2. Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan: Known as the “Temple of the Heavy Buddha,” this temple is a significant centre for Buddhist studies in Laos and features a massive bronze Buddha statue.
3. That Dam Stupa: Also known as the Black Stupa, it’s a legendary site said to be the home of a seven-headed dragon that protects the city.
4. King Anouvong Statue: A monument dedicated to the last monarch of Laos, located in a park that’s great for a leisurely stroll.
5. Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): Located about 25 kilometres southeast of Vientiane, this park features over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues, offering a surreal and fascinating day trip.
6. Attend the unique Alms-Giving Ceremony (Tak Bat): Witness this serene and respectful tradition where monks collect alms from the local community early in the morning.
7. Pha That Luang Stupa: This magnificent golden stupa is the most important national monument in Laos, symbolising Buddhist religion and Lao sovereignty.
8. Wat Si Saket: Known for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha images and rows of seated Buddhas, this is one of the oldest temples in Vientiane.
9. Patuxay Victory Monument: Often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, this monument commemorates those who fought for independence from France. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city.
10. COPE Visitor Centre: Learn about the unexploded ordnance (UXO) problem in Laos and the efforts to help those affected. It’s a poignant and informative experience.
11. Mekong Riverside Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Mekong River, especially during sunset. The night market here is perfect for picking up local crafts and enjoying street food.
12. Lao National Museum: Dive into the history and culture of Laos with exhibits ranging from prehistoric times to the present day. It’s a great way to understand the country’s rich heritage.
Vientiane Travel Guide: Top 14 Best Places to Eat in Vientiane
Vientiane travel guide: Below are my top picks of the best places to eat in Vientiane. For local Lao dishes as well as international cuisine.
1. Culture Market Wanwan Food Park Center Point: A bustling food court offering a variety of local and international dishes, perfect for trying a bit of everything!
2. Han Sam Euay Nong (Three Sisters): Famous for its home-cooked Lao meals, the friendly atmosphere and delicious food make it a popular spot among locals and tourists.
3. NUAN: A stylish restaurant offering a mix of Lao and international cuisine, great for a relaxed dining experience.
4. The Cabana: We spent all day here working on our laptops. A great breakfast and lunch spot with a tasty brunch menu.
5. La Padek: Dinner spot known for its Lao Cuisine.
6. Privet: Located a bit outside the city, this Russian restaurant is worth the trip for its authentic and hearty meals.
7. Bacan: For a taste of Chilean cuisine, Bacan offers unique dishes that are a refreshing change from the usual Asian dishes.
8. Greenhouse: A top choice for vegans, Greenhouse offers a variety of plant-based dishes in a pleasant setting.
9. Arte Cafe: Ideal for getting some work done while enjoying good coffee and light meals.
10. Kualao Restaurant: For an upscale dining experience, Kualao serves authentic Lao dishes in a refined setting. Don’t miss their signature dishes like tam mak hoong (green papaya salad) and mok pa (steamed fish in banana leaves).
11. Joma Bakery Café: A popular chain for breakfast and coffee, Joma offers a variety of pastries, sandwiches, and fresh coffee.
12. Ban Anou Night Market: For an authentic street food experience, head to this bustling night market. Here, you can sample local favourites like khao jee (Lao baguette), grilled meats, and fresh fruit shakes.
13. Naked Espresso: This cosy café chain is perfect for coffee lovers. They serve a variety of coffee-based drinks along with delicious pastries and light meals.
14. Osaki Sushi Ramen Restaurant: The oldest Japanese restaurant in Vientiane. We dined here and highly recommend the gyozas and noodles.
Vientiane Travel Guide: Great Bars in Vientiane
Vientiane travel guide: Vientiane’s nightlife is vibrant and varied, with plenty of bars offering great drinks and good vibes. Here are some recommendations:
- Tipsy Elephant: Perfect for watching the sunset with a drink in hand.
- Hard Bye Bar: Known for its friendly crowd and good music.
- CCC or Windy Bar: Great spots for late-night fun and beers.
- 525 Eat & Drink, Gallery38, Artisan, Cocoon: These bars are famous for their excellent cocktails.
- Corebeer: A must-visit for craft beer enthusiasts.
Vientiane Travel Guide: Where We Stayed in Vientiane
We stayed at SYRI Guest House for our three night stay in Vientiane. It was a 10 minute walk from all of the main attractions of the city, restaurants and nightlife.
The accommodation is a mix of shared rooms like a hostel, and private rooms. We stayed in a private room and it was very spacious and clean and at a very reasonable price.
The accommodation also has a pool table and dart board for guests, along with breakfast options and some resident friendly cats and dogs.
Book a stay at SYRI Guest House here!
Vientiane Travel Guide: Where to Stay in Vientiane
If you’re planning a trip to Vientiane and wondering what area of the city to stay in, this guide below should help you.
Riverside Area
Staying near the Mekong River offers easy access to the night market, riverside walks, and many of the city’s key attractions. This area is ideal for first-time visitors looking to be in the heart of the action.
City Center
Opt for accommodation in the city centre to be close to major landmarks like Patuxai and Wat Si Saket. This area has a range of options from budget hostels to mid-range hotels.
Nong Duang Area
A quieter neighbourhood slightly away from the bustling city centre, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s perfect for travellers who prefer a peaceful environment while still being relatively close to the main attractions.
Ban Phiawat
Located across the river from the city centre, this area offers a more local experience. It’s a great place to find guesthouses and boutique hotels with a homely feel.
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