The Mekong River has long been the spine and lifeblood of Laos as it meanders from the far north to the very south of this landlocked nation. Along its route, the river passes by Vientiane – the capital city of Laos.
Frequently the first stop of tourists coming to Laos, Vientiane is a riverbank city where one can spend a short time seeing a different aspect of Lao culture before exploring the rest. Unlike the spirituality of Luang Prabang or the natural splendor of the deep south, Vientiane will show you Laos’s broader history and the urban life of the city. Let Absolute Asia Tours guide you through the best things to do in Vientiane!
The relaxed manner of Laos can be particularly seen in Vientiane, which is signature for Lao culture. Before the French came in the late 1800s, its significance fluctuated over the ensuing centuries. Things started to calm down when the civil war ended and the Pathet Lao party emerged victorious.
Vientiane is best enjoyed for its relaxed environment, French colonial architecture, and scattering of revered Buddhist temples, even if it offers only a few attractions to cross off a traveler’s must-see list. The Patuxai memorial, resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, is located in the center of the city and is best seen at night when it is brilliantly lit.
Activities in Vientiane
Take a morning walk through Talat Sao Market to start the day, and then continue on through the French Colonial area. Temple lovers must see the venerated (and glittering) Wat Pha That Luang, and the neighboring Buddha Park is a unique collection of more than 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues arranged in well-kept gardens.
There are now many excellent options to sample both traditional and contemporary Laotian food, which is frequently combined with French and other international cuisine, thanks to the growing restaurant and bar culture that has been fueled by the expat community. Watch the sun set over the Mekong at a riverbank café in the evening.
If you want to add Vientiane to your Laos tour as the first stop or enjoy the charm of this city for a longer time, let Absolute Asia Tours bring you a perfect itinerary for your needs!
Speak to someone who's been there
Situated along the Mekong River, Vientiane, the capital of Laos, offers a blend of rich history, urban life, and cultural experiences. Serving as the first stop for many tourists, Vientiane is a city where you can explore Laos' heritage before venturing into the country’s natural wonders.
Laos ⟩ Si Phan Don (4000 Islands)
Laos ⟩ Pakbeng
Laos ⟩ Pha That Luang
Laos ⟩ Tham Jang
Laos ⟩ Tham Xang
Laos ⟩ Wat Sisaket
Laos ⟩ Hongsa
Laos ⟩ Xieng Khouang
Laos ⟩ Wat Phou
Laos ⟩ Vientiane
Laos ⟩ Vang Vieng
Laos ⟩ Phongsali
Suggestions for Discovering Vientiane
Stroll along the Mekong River, visit Patuxai Monument for panoramic views, and explore the golden That Luang Stupa. Discover local markets, temples, and museums for a taste of Vientiane’s history and culture.
