Is Vientiane Worth Visiting? Pros and Cons of Visiting Laos Capital and Things to Do

Is Vientiane worth visiting? Absolutely, like everywhere in Laos. The fabulous Capital of the country is a contrast to ancient Asia, mixed with more recent French Colonial style and new development that might place Vientiane in the geography of the biggest cities of this part of the world. Even if we say that to be honest, we didn’t feel that much vibes in Vientiane.

While we say it is worth visiting Vientiane, you might cut a few days in the city to visit the main sights and pass over. Nestled along the banks of the majestic Mekong River, Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, holds a fascinating allure waiting to be explored. This article will delve into the hidden gems and captivating experiences that make Vientiane a destination worth adding to your travel list.

The Capital might be one of the greatest cities in Asia in the future, but at the moment, there is very little going on. We spent about 5 days in Vientiane across Christmas, and we were a bit bored in the last two. Even though we make these considerations, you must visit Vientiane.

Through the next few paragraphs, you will get some important information about Laos Capital that we wish we had known before our trip. Let’s travel to one of the most underrated countries in Asia together and explore some reasons to visit Vientiane.

Things to know before visiting Vientiane

As mentioned, some information are essential while planning a trip to Laos. Things like currency and exchange rates, the best time to explore, when it is possible to navigate the Mekong, transport and more are essential.

We give a brief guide to make your trip pleasant and stress-free. Talking about that, why don’t you check our suggestions for travel insurance? Grab your discount with HeyMondo; the 5% is on us!

Best time to visit Vientiane

When it comes to choosing the best time to visit Vientiane, the capital city of Laos, I recommend considering a few factors. Vientiane has a tropical monsoon climate, which means it has distinct wet and dry seasons. Each season offers a unique atmosphere and a range of experiences for travellers like me.

Laos currency

We had a tough time changing Lao money after our trip. We carried the notes everywhere, and only when in Vietnam were we able to exchange them. The local currency has a shallow attraction on the financial market. The Lao Kip (LAK) is the official currency of Laos and is used widely throughout the country. 

Some businesses accept US Dollars, but only some are, like in Cambodia. You can exchange money everywhere, but be careful as some are not official and might give you forged notes or are not valid anymore. We always suggest carrying multiple cards (VISA and Mastercards) to withdraw at cash machines or pay contactless.

Stay safe in Vientiane

Laos is safe; we had no problem travelling through the country. Within almost one month, travelling on the mighty Mekong River or off-road on a motorbike through the Laos countryside dirt roads.

As always, we suggest having travel insurance and enjoying your trip as much as possible. It is essential to be covered if anything happens or at least have support from expert travel insurance. We always go with HeyMondo and Safety Wings for every new adventure. Read our review of HeyMondo, and grab their fantastic 5% discount by clicking here.

Budget to visit Vientiane

Vientiane is budget-friendly. Whether you are a backpacker on a tight budget travelling through southeast Asia like us, or a seasoned explorer looking for the next adventure, you will see how affordable Laos is.

Compared to little towns, or more remote places, you might work out a bit to find cheap places to eat or a nice cup of coffee and tea at a fair price in Vientiane. However, accommodation-wise, we were pleased to see the abundance of offers in Vientiane. From fine resorts to guest houses, you can have your own private room with a bathroom.

However, we budgeted about $50 per day in two, so $25 per person, including accommodation, food, breakfast, attractions and transport. Overall, we stayed within the budget.

Tips to stay on a budget in Vientiane

Stick with Local Cuisine: Stay on a budget exploring the flavours of Laos. Vientiane is known for its street food stalls and local eateries. Here, you can find delicious and inexpensive meals. Indulge in Lao specialities like sticky rice, noodle dishes, and fresh fruit shakes.

Transportation: Getting around Vientiane can be budget-friendly as well. Avoid tuk-tuks as they are expensive; instead, consider taking local buses or dealing with your hotel as an option. Also, consider renting a bicycle to roam freely around the city. Check the price for a bike rental in Vientiane.

Free and Low-Cost Activities: Most of the attractions in Vientiane are free. It wasn’t possible to get to the Patuxai rooftop during our visit, so we don’t know how much the ticket cost. Taking a stroll along the picturesque Mekong River is the most trendy activity, enjoying the vibrant markets for a taste of local life.

Planning Ahead: We were able to stick with the budget because we planned ahead. Sometimes we had to change plans, but it was flexible, using free cancellation for hotel booking and marking on the calendar the last day that it was possible.

Laos Travel Insurance

Vientiane isn’t easy to navigate

One of the biggest problems we found while in Vientiane was getting public transportation. In fact, you will soon see that the absence of public buses or alternative ways to get around is not what you expect from a capital. Of course, this lack makes local drivers extortionate a big chunk of tourists.

However, we suggest two options, renting a bicycle or getting on a tour of the best sights of Vientiane. Check this tour for the best highlights of Vientiane. (Check a tour with a guide + Central Market all day). Also, by the end of this guide, you will find our selection of the best places in Vientiane; stick with it, as they are very central, and you can walk around.

Laos Sim Card

We know it is difficult to arrive in a new country and hunt for connections, even to say you are safe or get the position and directions to your accommodation. We checked our expenses spreadsheet and understood that having a sim card in some situations, like arriving at the airport, saved us a lot of money, ordering a taxi online instead of taking one from the arrival terminal.

If you want to stay connected while on the road, check the best options for an e-sim. It’s easy to use an e-sim, and you can activate it before your trip and always stay online. This option offers 3G and 4G, delivering a QR code to your email and activating it online without you having to pick up the card.

You can activate it online and stay connected for 5 to 8 days. It works perfectly in Laos, and the price starts from $9 per package.

Is Vientiane worth visiting? 10 reasons why you should visit Vientiane!

History and Culture of Vientiane: A Tapestry of Heritage

We were amused by Vientiane, even though this city is leaving behind the ancient past, becoming one of the many Skyscrapers cities in Asia. Overcrowded and filled with high buildings and chains (hotels, shops and coffee shops). Aside from that, Vientiane still has a rich historical background that marks the city on every corner.

Vientiane’s history has greatly influenced its cultural landscape, from the ancient Khmer empire to French colonial rule. To fully immerse yourself in the city’s heritage, explore landmarks such as Pha That Luang, the national symbol of Laos, and Wat Si Saket, Vientiane’s oldest Buddhist temple.

You need to keep in mind that Laos is a relatively young nation, which is often associated with the saying, “It was Thailand about 20 years ago”. We can testify that this saying seems true; even though we didn’t see Thailand 20 years ago, we have experienced Koh Lanta, which seems a little behind the nearby Krabi or Phuket and more similar to Vang Vieng and generally Laos. The architecture and contrast make Vientiane worth visiting if you are around.

Architectural marvels: Icons of Vientiane’s splendour

Vientiane proudly showcases its architectural marvels, each with its own story to tell. Marvel at the intricate design of Patuxai, often referred to as the Laotian version of the Arc de Triomphe. Ascend to its pinnacle and be rewarded with breathtaking views of the cityscape. Explore the mystical legend surrounding That Dam, the black stupa that represents protection against a mythical serpent.

Don’t miss the allure of Wat Si Muang, where local devotees seek blessings and offer prayers for good fortune. And the golden splendour of Pha That Luang, with its gilded spires and revered status as the national symbol, will leave you in awe of Laos’ deep spiritual roots.

Before we suggest where to go in Vientiane, check out the best tour of the city with a local guide for just $50. So, now, let’s explore some of the iconic landmarks that make Vientiane worth visiting:

Patuxai – The Laotian version of the Arc de Triomphe

The symbol of Vientiane and Laos is Patuxai. Think about the Arch of Triumph of Paris, well, the Asian version. The monument is a testament to Laos’ struggle for independence and is a must-visit attraction for history enthusiasts.

The Laos Arc of Triomphe stands proudly in the heart of Vientiane and is unmissable visiting the Capital. Adorned with intricate carvings and finely detailed archways, the Patuxai offers a stunning panoramic view of the city from its observation deck.

Unfortunately, it wasn’t possible to get up at the time of our visit, so we flew the drone. Check here if it is reopened.

Wat Si Saket | The oldest Buddhist temple in Vientiane

Another place that makes Vientiane worth visiting is Wat Si Saket. The oldest Buddhist temple in Vientiane. Its unique architectural style, characterised by its cloister walls adorned with thousands of Buddha images, provides a serene setting for contemplation and exploration. As you wander through the temple grounds, you’ll feel a sense of reverence and peace enveloping you.

That Dam – The black stupa with an intriguing legend

Discover the enigmatic allure of That Dam, a black stupa steeped in legend and mystery. According to local folklore, this ancient structure was once believed to be inhabited by a seven-headed dragon that protected the city from enemy invasions. Today, That Dam is a symbolic reminder of Vientiane’s resilience and storied past.

Ideal for day trips out of the city

We suggest you spend at least three days in Vientiane, and if you have more, rent a scooter and get out of the city. Vientiane is in a favourite position, surrounded by the natural beauty that enchants visitors. For a leisurely trip still within the city limits, you should consider visiting the Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan), a sculpture park with intricate Buddhist and Hindu statues that create a mesmerising and spiritual ambience. But read through, as we mention it later on, as it is fascinating.

The Mekong River creates a fantastic atmosphere

The Mekong River, flowing alongside Vientiane, adds to the city’s charm. Local life thrives along the river, making a stroll on the riverbank a must. The sunrise and sunset are magnificent, creating a unique atmosphere.

During our time in Laos, we experienced numerous sunsets and sunrises, which became one of the main highlights, often surpassing the significance of regular landmarks. Walking along the riverbank at sunrise or sunset offers stunning views and a peaceful ambience. You can also take a boat tour to explore the river and observe the local way of life along its shores.

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

Tourists often leave it out, but this kind of “Themed Park” is fantastic. Xieng Khuan is a sculpture park with many Buddha statues and mazes. The park is a collection of moments that depict the basis of Buddhism and Hinduism. If you are willing to learn more about the country you are visiting, this is the right place.

Exploring the park’s labyrinthine pathways will transport you into spiritual wonder and artistic expression. CHECK THE TICKETS BEFORE YOU GO.

Vientiane Riverside Promenade

As mentioned many times in this guide, the Vientiane riverside is the go-to place to stay in the Capital. You will walk for hours up and down until the darks come, and the promenade becomes even more lively. Without saying, the view of the Mekong River, with Thailand on the other side of the banks, is one of the most romantic things to do in Vientiane.

Vientiane is worth visiting for savouring Lao cuisine

No visit to Vientiane is complete without indulging in the vibrant culinary scene. Sample the flavours of Laos with a steaming bowl of Khao Piak Sen, a popular Lao noodle soup dish. Delight your taste buds with the aromatic spices of Or Lam, a traditional Lao stew. And raise a glass of Beer Lao, the national beer, one of our favourite beers in Asia. The taste is plain, like a simple lager you can get in Europe or the US.

To dive into the flavour of Laos, we suggest two options, going on a food tour with a local guide and participating in a Laotian cooking class with a local chef! These two activities are the best to get into the skin of the country you are visiting.

Explore Vientiane’s markets

We love markets. It gets all the essence of places and changes the atmosphere depending on the country you are visiting. Vientiane’s markets are vibrant like the rest of Asia. If you want to get some fresh products or just shop around for handicrafts, textiles and traditional Lao goods, head to Talat Sao. This is a traditional bazaar with incredible products you can find.

Remember to bargain, they love it, and you will love the low price too. From 6 pm onward every day, instead, head to the promenade. Roam around the Night Market, a long span of stands offering everything from food to clothes and electronics. Be careful as the market gets crowded, and so do the pickpockets. We didn’t have any bad experiences but know of travellers who did and warned us.

Experience the bustling energy of Vientiane’s markets is a must while in Laos. Are you still wondering if is Vientiane worth visiting? Well, continue reading.

Unique experiences in Vientiane

Even though we suggest not spending so much time in Vientiane, it is still possible to get out of the ordinary. Vientiane offers unique experiences that will leave an indelible mark on your journey in Asia. We will invite you to travel sustainably, so embark on a cycling adventure along the Mekong River, allowing the cool breeze to caress your face as you soak in the scenic views.

There is a traditional massage among the experiences you can have in Laos. Locals want it to be referred to as Lao Massage, but it looks like a proper Thai Massage. So if you like it, you will get the same experience. However, among the best experiences while in Vientiane, you should write down the Baci Ceremony, a traditional Lao ceremony of blessings, where the warmth of Lao hospitality embraces you.