VIENTIANE CAPITAL
Vientiane Capital is the tranquil heart of Laos, a charming city where French colonial architecture blends with gilded Buddhist temples. It offers a unique, relaxed pace of life along the mighty Mekong River.
This region is a cultural crossroads that serves as a gateway to Laos’s spiritual and contemporary life. It is a land of inspiring history, from sacred stupas to bustling night markets.
Most Popular Attractions
Vientiane City Core & Historic Sites:
Pha That Luang: The most important national monument in Laos, a magnificent gold-covered Buddhist stupa and a symbol of Lao sovereignty.
Patuxai (Victory Gate): A large war monument resembling the Arc de Triomphe, offering panoramic views from the top.
Wat Si Saket: Vientiane’s oldest surviving Buddhist temple, famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of small Buddha images.
Haw Phra Kaew: Former royal temple that once housed the Emerald Buddha, now a museum of religious art.
Presidential Palace: A grand building serving as the official residence for the President of Laos (not open to the public, but impressive to view).
Wat Si Muang: A popular and highly respected temple built over an ancient Khmer-era Hindu shrine, considered the home of the city pillar.
Lao National Museum: A collection detailing the country’s history from prehistoric times to the present.
Black Stupa (That Dam): A revered stupa believed to be protected by a seven-headed Nāga, standing in the heart of the city.
Chao Anouvong Park: A riverside park and monument dedicated to the last king of the Vientiane Kingdom.
Vientiane Night Market: A lively market along the Mekong River, perfect for souvenirs, clothing, and local snacks.
Vientiane Modern & Cultural Attractions:
COPE Visitor Centre: An essential and educational center detailing the history and impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos.
I-CAT (Innovative Computer Animation and Training) Gallery: Showcases the development of digital arts and animation in Laos.
Talat Sao (Morning Market): The city’s main shopping center, blending a traditional indoor market with a modern mall, great for silk, jewelry, and handicrafts.
Mekong Riverside Promenade: A popular area for evening strolls, exercise, and street food.
National Culture Hall: A venue for performances and cultural events.
Vientiane Outskirts & Surroundings:
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): A sculpture park featuring over 200 Hindu and Buddhist statues, including a massive reclining Buddha.
Lao PDR National Stadium: The country’s largest sports venue, used for major events and the Southeast Asian Games.
Tad Leuk Waterfall (in Phou Khao Khouay National Park): A beautiful, accessible waterfall offering a natural escape outside the city limits.
Houay Ngam: A reservoir/lake area outside the city, popular for local relaxation and fishing.
Dong Dok: Home to the National University of Laos, a center for education and youth culture.
Wat Sok Pa Luang: A tranquil forest monastery known for its traditional Lao herbal steam sauna.
The Royal Thai Embassy: An impressive diplomatic compound on the banks of the Mekong.
Thadeua: A small town on the Mekong known for its river port and as a gateway to the Friendship Bridge.
Activities & Experiences
Visit Pha That Luang: Explore the national symbol of Laos—a magnificent gold-covered Buddhist stupa and an important national monument.
Wander Through the Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): Discover hundreds of massive and bizarre concrete statues of Buddhist and Hindu deities in this surreal sculpture park located just outside the city.
Stroll the Mekong Riverside Night Market: Join the locals and tourists for an evening along the Mekong, browsing stalls for clothing, souvenirs, and enjoying the sunset over the river.
Explore Wat Si Saket: Visit Vientiane’s oldest-surviving temple, famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of miniature Buddha images.
Discover Patuxai (Victory Gate): Climb to the top of Vientiane’s own Arc de Triomphe for panoramic views of the city’s main avenues.
Take a Lao Cooking Class: Learn to prepare classic Lao dishes like Larb (minced meat salad) and Tam Mak Houng (spicy papaya salad) using local ingredients.
Relax at a Traditional Lao Massage: Indulge in a full-body Lao massage, which combines elements of Thai massage and acupressure, often followed by a herbal sauna.
Visit the COPE Visitor Centre: Learn about the lasting impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos and the crucial work being done to assist victims. It’s a sobering but essential educational experience.
Cycle to the Countryside: Rent a bicycle and pedal through the less-developed areas surrounding Vientiane, passing rice paddies and small villages.
Shop at the Morning Market (Talat Sao): Explore the older, traditional section of the market for textiles, silver, and local crafts, or visit the modern mall next door.
Take an Evening Sunset Cruise on the Mekong: Enjoy a leisurely boat trip on the river as the sun sets, a peaceful way to view the city from the water.
Sample Lao Coffee and Street Food: Stop at one of the many roadside stalls for an authentic cup of strong, sweet Lao coffee or snack on grilled meats and local sweets.
Local Tips & Transport
Tuk-Tuks and Jumbos: These are the most common and convenient forms of transport for short distances. Always agree on the fare before getting in, as they rarely use meters. Tuk-tuks are generally larger, while jumbos (three-wheeled scooters) are often used for shorter hops.
Bicycles and Scooters: Vientiane is relatively flat and calm, making it easy to get around by bike. Many guesthouses and shops offer rentals. Scooters are also popular but be mindful of traffic and road conditions outside the center.
Ride-Hailing Apps (e.g., LOCA): Local ride-hailing apps are becoming increasingly popular and offer fixed prices, which can be easier than haggling with a tuk-tuk driver.
City Bus Network: An inexpensive and efficient network connects the city center to key locations like the Buddha Park (Bus #14), the Friendship Bridge, and the central bus stations. These are great for longer, pre-planned trips.
Airport Transfer: Wattay International Airport (VTE) is close to the city center. You can take a pre-paid taxi at a fixed rate from the counter inside the terminal, or a less expensive bus or tuk-tuk from just outside.
Respect Temple Etiquette: When visiting temples (wats), dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees). Remove your shoes and hat before entering the main prayer hall (sim). Do not point your feet toward any Buddha image or monk.
Monks and Women: Female visitors should avoid physical contact with monks, including shaking hands or handing something directly to them. If a woman needs to hand a monk something, she should place it on the ground or a nearby table for the monk to pick up.
The Lao PDR Vibe: Laos is known for its slower pace of life, often described by the phrase Bo Pen Nyang (no worries/never mind). Embrace the tranquility and don’t expect the swift service of a major metropolis.
Eating Times: While major restaurants cater to tourists’ schedules, locals tend to eat dinner relatively early, often before 8 PM. Street food and markets are popular at all hours.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service in restaurants and for tour guides. Rounding up the fare for tuk-tuk drivers is common.
Currency and Exchange: The local currency is the Lao Kip (LAK). While Thai Baht and US Dollars are often accepted in major tourist areas, it’s best to use Kip for street stalls and local businesses. Carry small denominations.
Hidden Gems:
- Haw Phra Kaew: Now a museum, this former royal temple once housed the Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok). Its beautiful grounds and architecture are a peaceful retreat.
- Vientiane’s Night Street Food Scene: Explore the side streets and designated food zones near the river for a fantastic and affordable array of grilled fish, noodle soups, and local sweets.
- The Lao National Museum: While sometimes criticized for its maintenance, it offers a fascinating look at Lao history, particularly the revolutionary period.
- That Dam (Black Stupa): Located in the city center, this ancient stupa is rumored to be guarded by a seven-headed Naga. It’s a quiet, atmospheric spot often overlooked by tourists.
Language: The official language is Lao. Learning a few basic phrases—such as Sabaidee (Hello), Khop Jai (Thank you), and Kaw Tod (Excuse me/Sorry)—will be greatly appreciated.
Top Restaurants
Lao Kitchen [$10-$20] – A popular, centrally located spot known for serving up excellent traditional Lao dishes like laap and bamboo shoot stew, perfect for first-timers and locals alike.
Doi Ka Noi Restaurant [$15-$25] – A hidden gem known for its authentic, daily-changing menu of traditional, seasonal Lao food prepared by Chef Noi, located a bit outside the main tourist center.
Han Sam Euay Nong [$5-$15] – A long-time favorite among locals, specializing in popular noodle dishes like Khao Poon (noodle soup with coconut milk) and various pounded salads (Tam).
Miengchaokao Restaurant [$5-$15] – A lively, crowded, and bustling spot popular with locals for a variety of delicious traditional Lao dishes and a strong local vibe.
Soukvimarn Cuisine Lao Restaurant [$10-$20] – Operating since 1990, this established restaurant serves local specialties like Lao soups, mok Lao (steamed fish/meat), and laap in a spacious setting.
Phakhao Lao Restaurant [$10-$20] – Known for its delicious Southeast Asian cuisine and great location near the Mekong Riverside, offering an authentic local dining experience.
Kung’s Cafe Lao [$10-$20] – A charming and dynamic spot in the city center popular with locals and travelers, offering a mix of authentic Lao and Asian fusion cuisine.
PVO Vietnamese Food [$5-$10] – A local favorite specializing in simple, authentic, and very tasty Vietnamese food like bánh mì (sandwiches) and phở, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Pho Zap [$5-$10] – A straightforward local establishment that sells one thing and one thing only: absolutely fine and very tasty Phở (Vietnamese noodle soup).
Tam Luang Prabang [$5-$15] – A small shop-house known for serving authentic, fantastic Luang Prabang-style pounded salads, including tam mak hoong (green papaya salad).
Pa Kham Tan [$5-$15] – A local spot famous for serving an outstanding, authentically prepared plate of laap (minced meat salad), often seasoned with cow bile for a truly local taste.
Khao Gee Mae Sab [$5-$10] – A shop-house that serves the Lao version of baguette sandwiches (Khao Jee Pa Tay), utilizing house-made pâtés and cured meats.
Anna Grilled Duck [$10-$20] – A popular food stall specializing in roasted duck marinated in padaek (Lao fermented fish sauce) and other local duck dishes like Laab Paed.
Thong Toum Duck Grill Restaurant [$10-$20] – A highly recommended spot for trying authentic grilled duck and unique Lao duck dishes, including the famous raw duck blood specialty (paeng pet).
Bor Pen Nyang 2nd [$5-$15] – Highly rated for its delicious Lao specialties and stir-fried dishes, known for affordable prices, friendly service, and a clean environment.
Nok Noy Noodle Shop [$3-$8] – A fast-food-style local spot known for its incredibly cheap prices, efficient service, and limited, but tasty, choices like fried rice and noodle soup.
Ban Anou Night Market Stalls [$5-$15] – Not one restaurant, but a quiet evening street food market perfect for sampling a variety of local street food, especially grilled meat and sticky rice.
Le Padaek [$15-$25] – A highly-regarded restaurant with a strong focus on traditional Lao flavors, often cited as one of the best local restaurants in Vientiane.
Moon the Night Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers a cozy setting to savor authentic Laotian flavors, a good choice for those seeking a genuine local meal.
Lao Derm Restaurant [$10-$20] – A restaurant committed to traditional Laotian cuisine, delivering an authentic taste of the country’s culinary heritage.
Makphet [$15-$25] – A vocational training restaurant run by an NGO, serving modern, creative Lao cuisine with a focus on high quality while supporting a great social cause.
Le Bistro 22 [$20-$35] – Formerly Chez Philippe, this restaurant offers high-quality French cuisine and desserts within walking distance of the main town area, often with French-Lao fusion elements.
Khop Chai Deu [$15-$30] – Known as “The Place Where the World Meets,” it’s a popular establishment serving a fusion of Lao, Asian, and Western dishes in a pleasant atmosphere, favored by expats and locals.
3 Merchants Restaurant [$25-$40] – Located within the Crowne Plaza hotel, this spot offers a delightful selection of amazing Indochine cuisine and charcoal grill dishes.
Kong View [$15-$30] – Offers a diverse menu of Lao, Thai, and European dishes with a stunning view of the Mekong River, making for a warm and cozy dining experience.
Flavours & Spices (Sokpaluang) [$10-$20] – A highly-rated restaurant known for its unique fusion of Indian, Asian, and Malaysian cuisine, focusing on fresh ingredients.
The State of Pasta [$15-$25] – A unique concept blending Italian cuisine with Laotian flavors, offering an inventive menu of pasta dishes.
Home Vientiane [$15-$30] – Provides a blend of dining delight in lush surroundings, featuring a garden and pool, with a menu that often incorporates Asian and Western influences.
Zang Khoo Restaurant [$10-$20] – Offers a wide range of Asian and French food at a very affordable price, especially for their daily set menus, in a pleasant atmosphere.
That Dam Wine House [$20-$40] – Overlooking the That Dam (black stupa), this spot serves Laotian and European dishes with an extensive international wine cellar and a lovely secluded terrace.
Kualao Restaurant [$25-$50] – Vientiane’s most popular, internationally recognized, and upscale authentic Lao food restaurant, located in a beautifully restored French-colonial house, often featuring traditional dance performances.
L’Adresse de Tinay [$30-$60] – A renowned French restaurant offering a sophisticated fusion of French and Lao cuisine, headed by a French chef of Lao descent.
Villa Opera [$25-$50] – A charming high-end Italian restaurant located in a beautifully refurbished French colonial villa, known for meticulously prepared, fine Italian cuisine and an extensive wine list.
Pimenton Open Fire Steakhouse [$30-$60] – The premier fine-dining steakhouse in Vientiane, also offering an expansive tapas menu with imported ingredients like New Zealand, Canadian, and Kobe beef.
Le Vendome Restaurant [$30-$50] – An exquisite French restaurant offering culinary artistry in a setting known for its warm hospitality.
Bistro 22 (French) [$25-$45] – Offers high-quality, authentic French cuisine, often considered a high-quality option in the city center.
Tyson Kitchen [$15-$30] – A popular, mid-to-high-end choice known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas and excellent Italian food, often a favorite with the expat community.
Acqua Italian Restaurant [$25-$45] – Known for offering authentic Italian flavors in a high-quality dining setting.
The Italian Job [$20-$40] – Another high-quality Italian restaurant, known for its focus on traditional Italian cuisine.
Cage du Coq Restaurant [$25-$45] – A spot to discover authentic French cuisine, blending culinary excellence with a local charm.
Tokyo Sushi Vientiane [$15-$30] – Considered one of the best Japanese restaurants in Vientiane, offering authentic and fresh sushi and sashimi.
Namaste India [$10-$20] – A favorite with locals and expats for its excellent North and South Indian food, especially the great-value Thali sets.
Nazim Restaurant [$10-$20] – A conscious Indian restaurant offering a varied menu of North and South Indian food, extensive vegetarian selections, and Halal food.
Roti House [$5-$15] – Known for authentic Indian flavors, a great choice for Indian breads and curries.
Tummour Restaurant [$10-$20] – A popular spot for those craving authentic Thai flavors in the capital.
Pomodoro Pizzeria Restaurant Vientiane Laos [$15-$25] – Offers authentic Italian pizza, a great alternative for those seeking quality Western comfort food.
PDR – Pizza da Roby [$15-$25] – Considered one of the best pizza spots in Vientiane, known for its wood-fired pizzas made with fresh ingredients.
The Pharaohs Restaurant [$10-$20] – A unique dining experience offering authentic Egyptian cuisine and a hookah experience.
Via Via Restaurant [$15-$25] – Serves a mix of French and Western cuisine, noted for its culinary artistry.
Bor Pen Nyang Restaurant [$10-$20] – Boasts a prime view of the Mekong River with a rooftop bar and a relaxed, laid-back vibe, offering a mix of local and Western dishes.
Joma Bakery Café [$5-$15] – Not a full restaurant, but an extremely popular café for locals and expats, famous for its strong fair-trade organic coffee, delicious baked goods, and savory options like sandwiches and bagels.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
525 Eat & Drink: Housed in a beautifully restored colonial villa in downtown Vientiane, this stylish cocktail bar and restaurant offers a wide range of creative cocktails and fine wines in a charming indoor or garden setting.
The Spirit House Bar & Restaurant: An all-day spot on Fa Ngum Road, near the Mekong Riverfront, that transforms into an upmarket bar in the evening. It attracts a mix of expats and locals with its stylish wooden interior and must-try cocktails, such as green-tea infused gin and tonic.
Moonlight Lounge: Located near the Namphu Fountain, this upmarket bar and club is a chic spot for sunset and early evening, playing jazzy house and ambient beats. It features an extensive drinks list, including a good selection of cocktails and bourbons.
Tipsy Elephant Vientiane Rooftop Lounge: Situated on the rooftop of the SureStay Hotel by Best Western, this lively lounge offers magnificent views of the Mekong River and the city. It’s a great spot to enjoy cocktails and snacks in a high-rise atmosphere.
Artisan Vientiane: Found in a central location, this spot is known for its sophisticated atmosphere and inventive cocktails, popular with both Western expats and the local upmarket crowd.
Ohlala bar: A cocktail haven offering delightful drinks and a cozy atmosphere, situated in a central area that blends local culture with a lively entertainment scene.
The Office Bar & Tapas: Located centrally, this spot offers a lively atmosphere and is a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts, also serving tapas.
Cocoon Bar Vientiane: Offers expertly crafted cocktails and a cozy, intimate ambiance in the city center, perfect for a relaxed night out.
Hard Rock Cafe Vientiane: Located on Setthathirath Road, this globally recognized venue offers a variety of cocktails and international drinks, often featuring live music performances.
Khop Chai Deu: A large, colonial villa turned popular restaurant and bar on Setthathirat Road that is a long-standing favorite for both locals and expats. It offers a rooftop terrace and a lively atmosphere.
Mojo Bar & Lounge: Known for its inviting ambiance and good selection of beverages, this bar is a great central Vientiane spot for a relaxed evening with friends.
Red Door Café & Bar: A central establishment known for good food and drinks at reasonable prices, often featuring a live band playing mostly Thai songs and catering to a local crowd.
MGB Mekong Garage Bar: Located a bit outside the main town, this bar is a popular hangout for expats and locals, offering a relaxed environment with darts and a pool table.
Tully’s Irish Pub: A slice of Ireland near Thatluang Lake, this pub provides a cozy spot for enjoying classic pub drinks and food.
Sona: Found on Lan Xang avenue across from the French Institute, this bar is popular with locals and known for making creative drinks with local ingredients.
The Hounge: Offers a cozy ambiance and a selection of exquisite wines, creating a perfect escape in the heart of Vientiane.
Moonlight Lounge (Late Night): As the night progresses, the atmosphere in this Namphu Fountain location shifts from a lounge to a vibrant party scene, with hip-hop, dance, and trap music taking over until the early morning.
Club DPlus: A premier nightclub in Vientiane’s center where music ignites the dance floor, promising a celebratory and energetic nightlife experience.
CCC Bar & Club Vientiane: Situated on Soupanouvong Road, this spot is known for its modern and stylish interior, lively atmosphere, and spacious dance floor, popular with party-goers and club enthusiasts.
Wind West: Ranked as a top club in Vientiane, this venue is known for its amazing atmosphere, playing popular music for a lively local crowd until late.
Wind East: A popular club located in the city’s main entertainment area, offering a similar high-energy experience to its counterpart.
Future Nightclub: A vibrant option for those looking to enjoy the party scene, located in the Vientiane area.
Lao Bowling Center: More than just a bowling alley on Rue Le Ky Huong, it transforms into a unique, fun, and lively late-night local institution with loud music and cold beer, staying open until late.
Bor Pen Nyang: A popular 4-story bar and restaurant on the Mekong Riverfront that, in the evening, turns into a vibrant, backpacker-friendly club with a rooftop terrace that’s perfect for sunset drinks.
Samlo Pub: Located on Rue Setthathilath, this classic pub offers a large, colorful outdoor seating area and a cozy indoor space with a divey, old-school charm that attracts a diverse crowd and stays open very late.