Vientiane Attractions

Vientiane hasn't got the obvious charm of Luang Prabang and it sometimes suffers by comparison, but in truth the capital of Laos has more in the way of traditional tourist attractions than the ancient northern city, and it has put a lot of effort into encouraging sustainable tourism. Visitors won't struggle to find interesting things to see and do in Vientiane and many fall in love with the relaxed atmosphere and sleepy riverside scenes which make it an unusually laid-back capital city.

The many Buddhist temples, interspersed with modern and colonial architecture, are the main attraction in Vientiane, as they are in the whole country. Two of the best are Ho Phra Kaew, one of the oldest and most grandiose in the city, and the famous That Luang, the golden Royal Stupa, surrounded by temples, which locals insist is the main attraction in Laos. Wat Si Saket is another favorite, known for its thousands of Buddha images. Travellers should note, however, that although the temples in Laos are incredible they tend to be fairly similar; try to avoid getting temple fatigue by visiting only the best and not overloading your itinerary with them.

A visit to Vientiane should also include a shopping spree in the Morning Market (Talat Sao), a stroll through Victory Gate, a cooking course on the banks of the Mekong River, a craft class at the Houey Hong Vocational Training Centre for Women (for the ladies!), an educational trip to the COPE Visitor's Centre, and an excursion to the weird but wonderful Buddha Park (Xieng Khouan) just outside the city.

Getting around in Vientiane is easy and most sightseeing can be most pleasurably done on foot or by bike.

Ho Phra Kaew

One of Vientiane's oldest and most grandiose temples, Ho Phra Kaew has an extremely interesting history that sheds lights…

read more

Houey Hong Vocational Training Center for Women

One of Laos' most popular activities for female tourists in recent years is a trip to the wonderful Houey Hong Vocational…

read more

Talat Sao (Morning Market)

Sometimes when you're travelling, it's nice to take a break from visiting the usual tourist attractions and to experience…

read more

That Luang (Royal Stupa)

The Royal Stupa is a symbol of Buddhism and Lao rule, and is Laos' most important religious building. A wonderful sight…

read more

Victory Gate (Patuxai)

Modeled to mirror the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, Laos' Victory Gate is definitely a sight to behold. Although it is said…

read more