The top 10 things to do in Vientiane.
Welcome to Vientiane, the laid-back capital of Laos! With its leisurely pace, colonial architecture and delicious cuisine, Vientiane is a destination not to be missed.
1. Pha That Luang
Begin your discovery of Vientiane with a visit to Pha That Luang, Laos’ most sacred monument. Admire the golden stupa, explore the surrounding temple complexes and learn more about the rich history of this important Buddhist site. After your visit, enjoy a tasty Lao meal at “Tamarind Restaurant,” a cozy restaurant specializing in traditional Lao dishes.
2. Patuxai (Triumphal Arch).
Climb the Patuxai, also known as the Lao Arch of Triumph, for a panoramic view of Vientiane. Admire the arch’s beautiful architecture, explore the courtyards and admire the views of the city. After your climb, enjoy a refreshing drink at one of the nearby cafes.
3. Wat Si Saket
Visit Wat Si Saket, Vientiane’s oldest Buddhist temple, and admire its beautiful architecture and well-preserved murals. Explore the peaceful courtyards, admire the thousands of Buddha statues and learn more about the religious traditions of Laos. After your visit, enjoy a tasty meal at “Coconut Garden,” a cozy restaurant serving traditional Lao cuisine.
4. Haw Phra Kaew
Explore the magnificent Haw Phra Kaew, a former royal chapel that now serves as a museum of religious art. Admire the chapel’s elegant architecture, explore its exhibits and marvel at its collection of Buddhist statues and artifacts. After your visit, enjoy a leisurely stroll through nearby Chao Anouvong Park.
5. That Dam
Admire the mysterious That Dam, an ancient stupa surrounded by legends and stories. Explore the quiet surroundings of the stupa, admire the stunning views of the city and learn more about the spiritual significance of this important site. After your visit, enjoy a refreshing Lao iced tea at one of the nearby cafes.
6. Wat Si Muang
Visit Wat Si Muang, an important Buddhist temple and pilgrimage site in Vientiane. Admire the temple’s colorful architecture, explore its beautiful courtyards and learn about local traditions and customs. After your visit, enjoy a delicious meal at “Kualao Restaurant,” a popular restaurant specializing in delicious Lao dishes.
7. Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan).
Take a day trip to nearby Buddha Park, a fascinating collection of Buddhist and Hindu sculptures in a picturesque setting on the banks of the Mekong River. Explore the colorful sculptures, admire the stunning views of the river and enjoy a relaxing picnic under the shade of the trees. After your visit, enjoy a tasty Lao barbecue at “Koua Khao Restaurant,” a cozy restaurant known for its grilled dishes.
8. Kong View Restaurant.
Enjoy panoramic views of the Mekong River at Kong View Restaurant, a popular riverside eatery. Sample delicious Lao dishes such as larb, grilled fish and sticky rice while enjoying the beautiful scenery and relaxed atmosphere. After your dinner, enjoy a refreshing drink at the nearby bars and cafes.
9. Talat Sao (Morning Market).
Explore the bustling atmosphere of Talat Sao, Vientiane’s main market, where you can store for everything from clothing and jewelry to local crafts and souvenirs. Wander the narrow alleys, negotiate with the friendly vendors and sample local delicacies like fresh fruit juices and crunchy snacks. After your shopping adventure, enjoy a traditional Lao meal at “Khua Din Restaurant,” a cozy eatery near the market.
10. COPE Visitor Centre.
Visit the COPE Visitor Centre, an impressive exhibition that focuses on the problems of unexploded ordnance in Laos and its impact on local communities. Learn more about COPE’s humanitarian mission, view the exhibits and support the charity by making a donation. After your visit, relax and unwind at “Noy’s Fruit Heaven,” a cozy cafe that serves fresh smoothies and fruit juices.