Vientiane, the laid-back capital of Laos, is a city that charms visitors with its French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and serene Mekong River setting. For those pondering things to do in Vientiane, visiting the iconic Pha That Luang, a gold-covered Buddhist stupa considered the most important national monument in Laos, and exploring Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, are top activities.
The city’s Patuxai Victory Monument, often referred to as the “Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane,” offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. Nearby, the bustling Talat Sao Morning Market provides a glimpse into local life, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to traditional Lao textiles.
Beyond its historical and cultural attractions, Vientiane is also known for its relaxed atmosphere, with the Mekong Riverfront perfect for leisurely strolls, especially during sunset. For those seeking the best places to visit in Laos, Vientiane’s blend of cultural richness, historical landmarks, and tranquil vibes makes it a must-visit destination.
Attractions & Things to Do in Vientiane, Laos
1. Pha That Luang
Pha That Luang, or the Great Stupa, is a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa in the center of Vientiane and is considered a national symbol of Laos. Its golden hue shines brightly under the sun, and the stupa is believed to house a relic of the Buddha.
Location: Central Vientiane, Laos. Easily accessible by tuk-tuk or taxi.
Scenic Spot: A stunning golden stupa, considered the most sacred Buddhist monument in Laos.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler weather. November during the Pha That Luang Festival offers a unique cultural experience.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though young children may not find it particularly engaging.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Visit during the full moon in November when Pha That Luang Festival takes place, with its fair and traditional music and dance performances, though it will be more crowded.
2. Patuxai Victory Monument
The Patuxai Victory Monument stands in the heart of Vientiane as a symbol of Laos’ struggle for independence from France. Often referred to as Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, it offers panoramic views of the city from the top.
Location: Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, Laos. Near the city center.
Scenic Spot: Laos’ version of the Arc de Triomphe, offering panoramic city views from the top.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for cooler weather and sunset views.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but the stairs to the top may be difficult for the elderly.
Price: €0.90 to access the observation deck.
Travel Tip: Climb to the top of the monument for a small fee to enjoy the view, and visit late afternoon for a less crowded experience and cooler temperatures.
3. Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
Buddha Park is a sculpture park located around 25 kilometers southeast of Vientiane. Home to over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues, the park provides a surreal experience amidst the meadows by the Mekong River.
Location: 25 km southeast of Vientiane, along the Mekong River.
Scenic Spot: A surreal park with over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, including a giant reclining Buddha.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning to avoid the heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but uneven paths may be challenging for elderly visitors.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Get there early to avoid the heat of the day and to have more time to explore the statues without the crowds.
4. Wat Si Saket
Wat Si Saket is a Buddhist wat in Vientiane, famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha images and rows of hundreds of seated Buddhas. These images mainly date from the 16th and 19th centuries and are set in an older temple that survived the Siamese invasion of 1828.
Location: Near the Presidential Palace, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: The oldest temple in Vientiane, featuring thousands of Buddha statues in its cloisters.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for a peaceful experience and to witness monks chanting.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though young children may find it less engaging.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to witness the monks chanting, a peaceful and meditative experience.
5. Lao National Museum
The Lao National Museum, housed in a French colonial building, offers a dive into the history of Laos, from prehistoric times to the modern day. The exhibits cover a range of topics, including the early kingdoms, colonial period, and the fight for independence.
Location: Setthathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A colonial-era building showcasing Laos’ history from prehistoric times to independence.
Best Time to Visit: Midday to escape the heat.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but exhibits may be less engaging for young children.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Some displays are not well-labeled in English, so hiring a guide or doing some research beforehand can enhance your visit.
6. COPE Visitor Centre
The COPE Visitor Centre provides insight into the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos and the work being done to combat this ongoing issue. It’s both an educational and sobering experience to understand the challenges Laos faces even today.
Location: Khou Vieng Road, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: An educational center about the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime; it’s an indoor exhibit.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though some content may be sensitive for young children.
Price: Free (donations encouraged).
Travel Tip: There is an excellent gift shop where your purchases support COPE’s work, and watching the documentaries offered is a must for a deeper understanding of their mission.
7. Vientiane Night Market
Set along the Mekong Riverfront, the Vientiane Night Market is the perfect place to end your day. With its red-roofed stalls, it’s an excellent spot for buying souvenirs, clothing, and local crafts.
Location: Along the Mekong Riverfront, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A lively market selling souvenirs, clothes, and handmade crafts.
Best Time to Visit: Evening for a vibrant atmosphere and cooler temperatures.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but it can be crowded.
Price: Free to explore; shopping prices vary.
Travel Tip: Bargaining is part of the shopping experience here, and starting your offer at about half the asking price is a good rule of thumb.
8. Haw Phra Kaew
Haw Phra Kaew is a former temple turned museum, which once housed the Emerald Buddha (Phra Kaew). It showcases some of the best examples of Lao religious art and has a tranquil atmosphere.
Location: Near Wat Si Saket, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A former temple turned museum, once home to the revered Emerald Buddha.
Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but may be less interesting for young children.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: Respect the dress code and be sure to cover shoulders and knees when visiting.
9. That Dam
That Dam, or the Black Stupa, is a stupa located in a quiet roundabout in Vientiane. It is shrouded in legend, believed by locals to be inhabited by a seven-headed dragon that protected the city from the Siamese army in the 1820s.
Location: A small roundabout in central Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A mysterious, weathered stupa surrounded by local legends.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime, as it’s an open-air attraction.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but it’s more of a quick photo stop.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: It’s free to visit and makes for a quick photo stop as you explore the city.
10. Mekong Riverside Park
The Mekong Riverside Park is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike for its serene river views and the lively atmosphere in the evenings. It’s ideal for a leisurely stroll, aerobics, and to observe the everyday life of Vientiane’s residents.
Location: Along the Mekong River, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A beautiful promenade perfect for a relaxing walk, with sunset views over the river.
Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for a cooler atmosphere and sunset.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, with plenty of space for children to run and play.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Plan your walk in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and don’t miss the sunset views over the Mekong River.
11. Talat Sao (Morning Market)
Talat Sao, known as the Morning Market, is actually open all day and is the place to go for everything from electronics to fabrics. It’s housed in two main buildings where you can find local handicrafts, souvenirs, and traditional Lao clothing.
Location: Avenue Lane Xang, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A bustling market selling electronics, textiles, and local handicrafts.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for the freshest goods.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though the crowds may be overwhelming for young children.
Price: Free to enter; prices vary based on purchases.
Travel Tip: Be ready to haggle if you’re shopping for souvenirs, and check out the food court upstairs for some local snacks or lunch.
12. Wat Ho Phra Keo
Reconstructed in the 19th century, Wat Ho Phra Keo is a former temple turned museum, once home to the Emerald Buddha now in Bangkok. Today, it houses some of Laos’ most treasured religious sculptures and artifacts.
Location: Near Wat Si Saket, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A reconstructed temple showcasing Buddhist art and sculptures.
Best Time to Visit: Midday when it is less crowded.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, but younger children may not find it engaging.
Price: €1.90 for entrance.
Travel Tip: The temple closes for lunch, usually between 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
13. Wat Si Muang
Wat Si Muang is a temple full of local color and everyday religious practice, famous for its city pillar and believed to be home to the guardian spirit of Vientiane. The temple is vibrant and frequently visited by locals making merit or seeking good fortune.
Location: Southeast Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A vibrant and active temple, home to the guardian spirit of Vientiane.
Best Time to Visit: Morning for local religious ceremonies.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, though respectful behavior is expected.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: When visiting, participate in the local tradition of making offerings or tying a cotton thread around the wrist for good luck.
14. Chao Anouvong Park
Named after King Chao Anouvong, this riverside park features a prominent statue of the king and offers a peaceful retreat with views across the Mekong to Thailand. It’s also a great place to observe or join in on public exercise classes in the early morning or late evening.
Location: Near the Mekong Riverfront, Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A peaceful park with a statue of King Chao Anouvong, offering great river views.
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or evening for cooler weather.
Suitable for All Ages: Yes, great for families and those who enjoy outdoor activities.
Price: Free to visit.
Travel Tip: Try visiting during the early evening when you can enjoy the cooler air and watch the locals enjoying their city.
15. Vientiane Capital Shooting Range
For something a little different, the Vientiane Capital Shooting Range offers visitors the chance to fire a variety of weapons under professional supervision.
Location: Outskirts of Vientiane, Laos.
Scenic Spot: A unique attraction where visitors can try shooting different firearms.
Best Time to Visit: Anytime during opening hours.
Suitable for All Ages: Only for adults and older teenagers (may require ID verification).
Price: €10-€50 depending on the weapon used.
Travel Tip: Always ensure you follow all safety instructions and guidelines provided by the range officers to ensure a safe experience.
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Vientiane, Laos: Ratings
Kid-Friendly Activities in Vientiane: 6/10 – Vientiane offers several family-friendly activities, such as visiting the COPE Visitor Centre, which provides educational exhibits, and exploring the Lao National Museum. The city’s parks and the Mekong Riverside Park provide open spaces for children to play, though the range of structured activities is somewhat limited.
Nightlife in Vientiane: 6/10 – Nightlife in Vientiane is relaxed, with a mix of bars, cafes, and a few nightclubs. Popular spots include the Mekong Riverside, where visitors can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with views of the river. The nightlife is more subdued compared to major cities, focusing on socializing and dining.
Sport in Vientiane: 6/10 – Vientiane provides basic opportunities for sports, including football, basketball, and tennis at local sports clubs. The city also offers facilities for fitness enthusiasts, such as gyms and yoga studios. The nearby mountains and countryside offer opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities.
Culture and Attractions in Vientiane: 8/10 – Vientiane is rich in cultural and historical attractions, including the Pha That Luang stupa, Patuxai Victory Monument, and Wat Si Saket. The city’s temples, monuments, and museums offer a deep cultural experience, reflecting its rich heritage and history.
Gastronomy in Vientiane: 7/10 – The culinary scene in Vientiane is diverse, featuring traditional Lao dishes such as larb, sticky rice, and tam mak hoong (papaya salad). The city offers a range of dining options, from street food to restaurants serving international cuisine, providing a variety of gastronomic experiences.
Shopping in Vientiane: 6/10 – Shopping in Vientiane includes local markets like the Morning Market (Talat Sao) and the Night Market along the Mekong River, where visitors can find traditional crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. The city has a few modern shopping centers, but the selection is modest compared to larger cities.
Prices in Vientiane: 8/10 – Vientiane is quite affordable, with low prices for accommodation, dining, and daily expenses. The cost of living is significantly lower compared to many other international cities, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers.
Average price for a hotel night: 30-55 $
Cost of a lunch at a local restaurant: 4-7 $
Price of a beer: 1.5-2.5 $
Price of a coffee: 1.5-2.5 $
Beyond the City: Exploring Surroundings and Stays in Vientiane, Laos
For those looking to explore beyond Vientiane’s laid-back charm, top day trips near Vientiane present an opportunity to discover Laos’s rich history and vibrant landscapes. The ancient Vat Phou temple complex, the scenic Nam Ngum Lake, and the Buddha Park with its intriguing sculptures, each offer a unique adventure just a short journey from the capital.
When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay, Vientiane accommodations range from modern city hotels offering all the comforts of urban living to charming guesthouses that reflect the city’s French colonial past, ensuring a comfortable and convenient base for exploring Laos’s captivating capital.
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vientiane
https://www.getyourguide.com/vientiane-l399/
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