Vientiane is, hands down, the most underrated capital in the Southeast Asia. Many times overlooked in itineraries to this region, I can show you why it is worth a visit! The main reason to give this city a bit more of attention is that you can learn so much of Laos’ history here, and its amazing people deserve to have their history told!
I’ve spent almost one month there, discovering the main attractions and hidden gems. Here I put together a guide for up to three days of visit, but you can cover the main points in one or two days (recommended, at least).
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Best Time to Visit Vientiane
The best time to visit is between November and February . During these months, the weather is your dream travel forecast—pleasantly warm, low humidity, and blue skies. Bring a jacket though, cause in the mornings and evenings it gets quite chill (like 15°C or less).
March and April can be too hot, and from May to October you have the rainy season – which is ok if you can spread your trip through more days and don’t miss anything because of the weather.
How to Get to Vientiane
Most visitors fly into Wattay International Airport (VTE) , which is 15-20 minutes from the city center .
You can also come by train from other cities in Lao (like Luang Prabang), or bus/shuttle (from Vang Vieng), depending on your itinerary.
Visa on Arrival
Getting a Visa on Arrival in Laos should not be complicated for most nationalities .
- What you need: Your passport (with at least 6 months validity), one recent passport-sized photo (4×6 cm), and the visa fee – usually US$ 40. Having the exact change in US Dollars is the safest bet. In any case, you can also withdraw Laotian Kip there, but I’ve been told the exchange rate is not very favourable.
- The process: You need to fill out a form at the airport as you land, which you will find at the immigration area. Hand over your documents and photo, wait a few minutes, and it must be done. In theory, you can also apply for an E-visa online beforehand at the official government website to save even more time, but I couldn’t access the site on my turn, and heard of other people having the same problem.
Obs: they didn’t ask for my printed photo (which I had), and also heard of most people not needing it. But the best advice is for you to follow the official orientation.
How to Move Around Vientiane & Apps to Download
Vientiane is wonderfully compact, making it easy to navigate.
- On Foot: The city center is very walkable, if you are staying close to the attractions. But it is a bigger city, and some points will be a bit farther.
- Tuk-Tuks: A classic! Just remember to negotiate the price before you hop in. It is reportdely the most expensive option.
- Ride-Hailing Apps (Crucial for your trip!):
- LOCA: They don’t have Grab in Laos, and instead use Loca. It’s super reliable and you can pay by credit card linked to the app. Be aware of extra fees at the end of every ride, though (it is their service fee).
- inDrive: Another popular option, though it’s usually cash-only .
- Foodpanda: the local option for food delivery, in case you feel too lazy to leave your home for food.
- Pro-Tip for LOCA Pay: Credit cards are not widely accepted in Laos. If you want to pay for things at shops using Lao QR codes, you can use Loca pay (the same app for the rides). You’ll need to complete the “KYC Register” verification inside the app, which requires a Lao SIM card. It’s easiest to buy a local SIM at the airport when you arrive .
Where to Stay in Vientiane
- Budget/Social: For a fun, social vibe, check out House Of Jars hostel, right on the city center.
- Mid-Range/Design: Near the most important attractions and nicely decorated, Patuxay Place has a great value/money rate.
- Luxury: If you’re looking to splash out, the Salana Boutique Hotel offers stunning views, luxury accommodations, and is famous for its amazing breakfast.
The Perfect 3-Day Vientiane Itinerary
Day 01: Covering the Basics
- Morning: Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
Kick off with a trip 25km out of town to the surreal Buddha Park. This sculpture garden is unlike any temple you’ve ever seen. It is filled with hundreds of Hindu and Buddhist statues. Climb inside the giant pumpkin-shaped monster to see some unique sculptures, representing the hell, purgatory, and heaven.
Getting there might be a bit difficult, though. You can take a tuk-tuk or Loca ride for more convenience – but it will cost a few more bucks. Or, for a budget option, you can take a local bus: number 23 departing from the central station in downtown. It leaves approximately every hour. To return, you wait at the bus stop in front of the park, and sign to the bus when you see it approaching.
- Afternoon: Temples
Head back to the city center to visit two temples sitting right across from each other. First, the Ho Phrakeo Museum, a former royal temple that now houses religious art . Next door is Wat Sisaket, the oldest temple in Vientiane still standing in its original form. Its walls are filled with thousands of tiny Buddha images.
- Sunset: Patuxai Victory Monument
Next, you can walk (around 20 min) or take a ride to Patuxai, Vientiane’s very own Arc de Triomphe. Ironically, it was built to celebrate Laos’ victory conquering independence from France. It is a very photogenic spot! Inside it, you can find a museum explaining its history and also Laos’ ethnical background. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city just as the sun starts to set.
- Evening: Riverside Night Market
End your day with a visit to the Mekong at the Vientiane Night Market. The stalls sell mostly handicrafts and souvenirs, though. Go to the Chao Anou Road night market if you want to find some delicious local food!
Day 02: Walking Through Laos’ History
- Morning:
Start at the Textile Museum. A bit out of the city center, you will need a ride to get there. Laos has a rich weaving culture, and this is the place to see it up close. On the first building, you will find weaving ladies doing this intricate work. Enjoy the gardens for a bit, then head to the dye workshop in the backyard, where they will teach you all about natural pigments. Finish the visit with a butterfly pea tea (the one that changes color with lime) at the shop, which is complimentary.
- Afternoon:
Now, what I am proposing might feel a bit overwhelming, so feel free to adapt this itinerary! A bit out of the city is the National History Museum, which exhibits Laos’ journey from ancient times through the revolutionary period.
Then, go back to the city center and prepare for a deeply moving experience at the COPE Visitor Centre. This is a must-visit. It educates visitors on the tragic legacy of the Secret War and the ongoing work to support survivors of unexploded ordnance (UXO). It’s a powerful and important stop.
Day 03: Local Art and Laid-back Vibes
Vientiane can keep your schedule full for one more day, if you let it!
- Morning:
Recently open, the Lao Art Museum houses beautiful local art, mainly wood carvings. Housed in a beautiful building blending Western and Chinese architecture, it’s heaven for people who love instagrammable places. To get there is a bit odd though, as it is almost one hour away from the city, and buses are not reliable. A Loca ride there and back will be expensive, and the ticket itself is around 15 USD. Maybe soon they will have group tours including it, which will be way easier to do! - Afternoon: Coffee Hopping
Vientiane has a handful of cute places, and you can save one full day only to find them. My favorites:- Hichillico Café: housed in an old mansion, it’s full of vintage decor and charming corners!
- Comma reading room: a Café with tons of books, magazines, and a few board games, for any time you need somewhere cozy to take a rest.
- Kem Ka Lam Tut Homemade Icecream: you will be surprised by this tiny ice-cream shop, which has a handful of local flavours.
Vientiane FAQ:
Q: Do I need a visa?
A: For most nationalities, yes, but it’s easy! You can get a 30-day Visa on Arrival at Wattay Airport for around US$40. Just bring a passport photo and cash .
Q: What’s the best way to get around?
A: The city center is great for walking. For longer trips or to beat the heat, use the ride-hailing app LOCA—it’s the local Uber and super convenient .
Q: Is Vientiane expensive?
A: It’s a very budget-friendly destination, although a bit more expensive than its neighboring countries. Street food is cheap and delicious, and accommodation ranges from $10 hostel dorms to luxury hotels .
Q: What currency do I need?
A: The official currency is the Lao Kip (LAK) . While US Dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist spots, you’ll always get a better rate using Kip. Cash is king, especially at markets and smaller eateries .
Q: Is the water safe to drink?
A: Stick to bottled or filtered water. It’s cheap and readily available, and it will save you from any tummy troubles .
Q: What should I wear at temples?
A: Dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees. A light scarf is a traveller’s best friend for this .
