Things to do in Vientiane, Laos

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is located in the Mekong Valley and is the largest city, with an estimated 800,000 people.

They have a local airline called Lao Airlines if you want to fly internally or out. The country is also accessible via rail and bus from bordering countries.

For the first-time traveller to Laos, you can explore this fantastic city by foot, tuk-tuk, or even renting a bicycle or motorbike and moving around town, but please follow the local laws and wearing a helmet is a must. 

Known locally as Xieng Khuan, the Buddha Park in Vientiane is a must-visit place in Laos. Though it is about 25 kilometres from town, the best way to get here is via Tuk Tuk or renting your motorcycle.

The best time to visit is in the mornings, with an entrance charge at the park’s door. See unique sculptures related to the Buddhist religion here. Massive and creative structures are laid all over the park.

The entrance of That Luang Golden Stupa in Vientiane.

Another must-visit place is the Golden Temple or That Luang Stupa in Vientiane due to the stunning gold colours used overall.

This beautiful temple is about four kilometres from town; you can walk, tuk-tuk or bike here. This is also one of the most important monuments for the people of Lao.

Patuxay Arch in Vientiane.

3. Visit Patuxay Arch in Vientiane

This stunning monument, Patuxay Arch, resembles the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and is another famous site.

It stands right between the town’s main roads at Patuxay Park and is also known as the Victory Monument or Victory Gate as it commemorates those who lost their lives in the war against the French.

A small fee is required to climb up the structure while this place closes at about 4.30 pm. Great for photo opportunities.

Talat Sao is a unique local market that sells all kinds of souvenirs, clothing and just about everything under the sun.

On the top floor, rows of jewellers and goldsmiths dominate the area. It is also known as the Gold Market, as you see gold crafters whocustom-makee jewellery.

The Morning Market in Vientiane opens from 7.00 am to 4.00 pm, and it is located in the heart of town and easily accessible. Vientiane Post Office is the landmark here. A must-visit when in Vientiane.
 

Another unique monument is located in town. This is a free attraction where numerous restaurants and bars surround the place.

Black Stupa’s nickname comes from the Lao word Dam, pronounced (Thut) That Dham. Getting here by foot is easy, and the Black Stupa in Vientiane is a free attraction. 

If you love eating, then you must try local Lao food when you are here. Lao food is slightly different from Thai food; therefore, it is recommended that you try it when in Laos.

For the adventurous, hopping on a bike and seeing Vientiane and its surroundings is fun. Many places offer motorbike and bicycle rentals for tourists.

However, you must be confident about riding here as this is Asia, and loads of bikes, cars, buses, and trucks are everywhere, so one must observe the local laws.

I tried renting a motorbike in Vientiane and saw many attractions by just riding around. Fuel is cheap, and you must be extra cautious when riding.

There are numerous temples and places of worship, while restaurants, cafes, and bars are also found in the city’s court. The latest update is that there will be SilkAir flights to Luang Prabang and Vientiane in September 201 from Singapore.

For those heading here, you can also chill out by just looking for some of the cafes or restaurants facing the mighty Mekong River that divides Laos and Thailand.

Exploring the local art scene,e where traders hang their paintings by the roadside is also one of the many things to do in Vientiane, Laos.