Vientiane Travel Guide
Flights, places to stay, and the best things to do in Vientiane for travelers flying from Vietnam.
Overview
Vientiane, the laid-back capital of Laos along a bend in the Mekong River, offers a uniquely gentle urban tempo unlike any other Southeast Asian capital. With wide tree-lined boulevards, French colonial villas, golden Buddhist stupas, and vibrant night markets overlooking Thailand across the river, Vientiane is an easy and relaxing destination for Vietnamese travelers.
Where to stay
Mekong Riverside
Lively evening promenade near Chao Anouvong Park, street food stalls, sunset drinks, and the bustling riverside night market.
View hotel optionsMixay / Downtown
Convenient central heritage quarter filled with French bakeries, boutique hotels, quiet Buddhist temples, and massage spas.
View hotel optionsThat Luang / Diplomatic
Prestigious diplomatic district near the national golden monument, home to international luxury hotels like Settha Palace.
View hotel optionsThings to do
Pha That Luang (Great Golden Stupa)
Marvel at the sacred 44-meter tall golden stupa dating to the 16th century, the paramount national symbol of Lao sovereignty and Buddhism.
Patuxai (Victory Monument)
Climb the grand arch reminiscent of Paris's Arc de Triomphe, adorned with traditional Lao mythological kinnari carvings, for panoramic city views.
Wat Si Saket & Buddha Park
Admire over 6,800 Buddha images nestled in temple niches at Wat Si Saket, followed by a scenic visit to the whimsical riverside sculptures of Xieng Khuan.
Best time to visit
Cool, dry winter season with comfortable temperatures between 18–28°C and low humidity, perfect for bicycle touring.
Boun That Luang festival, Laos's most important religious celebration with candlelit circumambulations and vibrant nationwide fairs.
Travel tips
- 1
Rent a bicycle or electric scooter to easily navigate Vientiane's flat, tranquil city avenues and colonial backstreets.
- 2
Indulge in authentic French-Lao fusion bakeries and cafes along Rue Setthathirath, renowned for fresh baguettes, croissants, and rich Lao coffee.
- 3
Vientiane is the southern terminus of the modern Laos-China Railway, offering high-speed train connections to Vang Vieng in 1 hour and Luang Prabang in 2 hours.
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