North Laos
Central Laos
South Laos
When it comes to checking out Laos, you can't miss Vientiane. It's a unique location with a chill vibe, unlike other busy capitals in Southeast Asia such as Hanoi in Vietnam or Bangkok in Thailand. This small city in Laos is steeped in history and is famous for its stunning Buddhist architecture, featuring beautifully carved statues and bas-reliefs that show a deep sense of respect.
If you’re a tourist who wants to set food in Vientiane, join us at Laos Travel Packages as we explore the captivating charm of Vientiane and help you plan your perfect Vientiane Tours & Excursions.
Did you know that in Lao, Vientiane means "City of the Moon"? Let’s take a closer look at why this "Moon City" is so appealing to tourists.
Since it started welcoming international tourists in 1989, tourism has really taken off in Laos, drawing visitors with its rich history, vibrant culture, and peaceful atmosphere.
As a former French colony, Vientiane has a unique French influence that you can see in its architecture like the Patuxai (Victory Gate), taste in Vientiane food, and even in the local lifestyle. This blend of cultures adds to Vientiane's appeal, making it a captivating destination for history and culture lovers. Don't miss out on visiting iconic spots like Pha That Luang, Wat Ho Phra Keo, and Buddha Park!
One of the key travel tips for visiting Vientiane is to pay attention to the weather. Laos has two main seasons, so it's important to plan accordingly. The rainy season in Vientiane runs from May to October, bringing plenty of rainfall and high temperatures that can reach over 30°C.
On the other hand, the dry season, from November to April, is the perfect time to explore Vientiane. You can expect Vientiane temperatures between 20°C to 30°C, clear skies, and very little rain, ideal for all your sightseeing and outdoor adventures. Additionally, this season is packed with traditional festivals like Boun Pha Vet in January and Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year) in April, which will definitely add a joyful vibe to your Vientiane city tour.
Is Vientiane worth visiting? Let’s check out the list of TOP things to do in Vientiane to not miss any Vientiane Laos tourist attractions!
Stroll down Vientiane's main avenue to visit the iconic Patuxay, also known as the Victory Gate. This monument, built in the 1960s, honors those who fought for Laos's independence from France. Its design is reminiscent of Paris's Arc de Triomphe but incorporates traditional Laotian motifs. Visitors can go inside to admire the vibrant murals on the ceiling inside the monument.
Pha That Luang is a must-see on day trips from Vientiane. This gold-covered stupa, originally built in the 16th century on the ruins of a 3rd-century Khmer temple, is a national symbol of Laos. It is believed to house a relic of the Buddha, making it a significant religious site. The stupa's architecture reflects Lao culture and history, with its towering golden spire visible from various points in the city.
Add the quirky Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) to your Vientiane itinerary, this place is located 25 km southeast of Vientiane. Created in 1958 by a monk who integrated Hindu and Buddhist philosophy, the park features over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues. The statues are made of concrete and range from traditional depictions to bizarre and surreal sculptures, creating a unique and fascinating landscape. The park is situated along the Mekong River, providing a peaceful setting for exploration.
Wat Ho Phra Keo, once the royal temple of the Lao monarchy, now serves as a museum of religious art. Built in 1560 to house the Emerald Buddha, the temple is an important cultural and historical site. Though the Emerald Buddha now resides in Bangkok, Wat Ho Phra Keo remains a place of reverence, featuring a collection of Lao and Khmer artifacts and Buddha statues. Visitors can pray for good fortune and enjoy the serene garden surrounding the temple.
Start your Vientiane travel at Talat Sao, the bustling morning Vientiane market. Located near the city center, the market offers a variety of goods, including textiles, handicrafts, jewelry, electronics, and fresh produce. It's an excellent place to experience the local culture, interact with friendly vendors, and find unique souvenirs. The market also has a food court where you can sample traditional Lao dishes.
Wat Si Saket is known for its thousands of Buddha images. Built in 1818, it is the oldest temple in Vientiane and the only one that survived the Siamese invasion of 1828. The temple's cloister walls house over 2,000 ceramic and silver Buddha statues, creating a serene and reflective space. The temple also features a beautiful courtyard with frangipani trees, a library of ancient manuscripts, and a museum displaying religious artifacts.
While Laos lacks a coastline, it owns the beautiful Nam Ngum Lake. Located about 90 km north of Vientiane, this large reservoir offers opportunities for kayaking, boating, and fishing. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and dotted with small islands, providing a picturesque and tranquil setting. It's an ideal escape from the Vientiane city, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Housed in a French colonial building, Lao National Museum features a collection of artifacts and exhibits that provide insights into the country's past, from prehistoric times to the modern era. Highlights include prehistoric tools, traditional clothing, ancient pottery, and exhibits on the French colonial period and the Lao Revolution.
End your day with a food tour at the Vientiane Night Market. Located along the Mekong River, the market comes alive in Vientiane at night, offering a vibrant atmosphere. Visitors can sample a wide range of Lao street food, including grilled meats, fresh salads, and delicious desserts. The market also features stalls selling local handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs.
If you’re finding ways to travel to Vientiane, here are some convenient transportation you can choose from to plan your trip.
The most common and convenient way to reach Vientiane is by air at Wattay International Airport. Located just 3 km west of the city center, this is the main international gateway to Vientiane. The airport serves flights from major Asian cities such as Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Kuala Lumpur, Seoul, and Singapore. Then you can take a taxi or an airport shuttle bus to reach the city center.
Traveling by bus is an economical option for those coming from neighboring countries or other parts of Laos. If you want a connected trip from Vietnam or Thailand, you can choose this option. There are direct bus services from major Thai cities such as Bangkok, Udon Thani, and Nong Khai to Vientiane.
The most popular route is from Nong Khai, which is just across the border. Buses cross the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge and take you directly to the Vientiane city center. Meanwhile, from Vietnam, buses from Hanoi and other cities in Vietnam to Vientiane are available, but these journeys can be long and less comfortable.
From July 2024, a new direct train service will operate between Bangkok and Vientiane, extending to the new Vientiane Khamsavath station, also known as Vientiane-Tai, which is 7 km from downtown Vientiane.
Then from Vientiane, you can take high-speed Laos-China trains to other Laos tourist attractions such as Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Luang Namtha,... This is also the best way to travel from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, other must-visit places in Laos.
Vientiane is a great place for exploring iconic landmarks, enjoying local delicacies, or participating in traditional festivals. Laos Travel Packages hopes the above info has conveyed the allure of Vientiane tourism. There's nothing better than seeing it with your own eyes. Leave your information to receive a designed itinerary & free quote for Vientiane Tours & Excursions.
