Things to Do in Vientiane

About Vientiane

Vientiane sits on the Mekong, moves slower than any Southeast Asian capital you've visited, and refuses to apologize for it. Golden temple spires catch early light. French colonial buildings line the boulevards—most need paint. Monks in saffron robes walk the morning streets for alms, passing bakeries that sell proper baguettes alongside sticky rice. The city smells like frangipani and coffee. Markets sell handwoven textiles and laap, the local minced meat salad that locals eat daily. Cafés crowd the sidewalks. People drink strong Lao coffee and watch motorbikes pass. Ancient stupas rise above it all, somehow fitting between the markets and the colonial architecture. Time works differently here. The city won't grab you by the collar—it waits for you to notice things. Walk the dusty lanes long enough and you'll see what makes this place work.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Tuk-tuks charge 20,000-50,000 LAK (.35-5.85) for typical trips within the city. City buses run 3,000-5,000 LAK ($.35-0.60) per ride. Motorbike rentals cost 80,000-120,000 LAK (.40-14.10) daily. VIP buses to other cities run 150,000-300,000 LAK (7.60-35.25).

Money: Lao Kip (LAK) required for most transactions; USD accepted at tourist businesses. ATMs charge 20,000-30,000 LAK (.35-3.50) fees. Credit cards accepted at upscale venues only. Exchange money at banks for better rates.

Cultural Respect: Remove shoes when entering homes and temples. Dress modestly at religious sites. Avoid pointing feet toward Buddha statues. Wai greeting (hands together) is appreciated. Buddhist monks cannot be touched by women.

Food Safety: Street food costs 10,000-30,000 LAK (.18-3.50) from established vendors. Laap (national dish) costs 25,000-40,000 LAK (.95-4.70). Bottled water costs 5,000-8,000 LAK ($.60-0.95). Sticky rice (10,000 LAK/.18) accompanies most meals.

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Vientiane is during the cool, dry season from November to February, when temperatures range from 15-28°C (59-82°F) with minimal rainfall under 10mm monthly. This peak season sees 40-60% higher accommodation prices but offers perfect weather for temple hopping and outdoor exploration. March to May brings scorching heat up to 38°C (100°F) with increasing humidity, though prices drop 25-35% and crowds thin significantly. The rainy season from June to October delivers 200-400mm monthly rainfall, with September being wettest, but also the greenest landscapes and lowest prices at 30-50% below peak rates. Key festivals include Boun That Luang (November full moon) featuring golden stupa celebrations, Pi Mai Lao New Year (April 13-15) with nationwide water festivities, and Boun Awk Phansa (October full moon) marking the end of Buddhist Lent with spectacular boat races. Budget travelers should target shoulder months like March and October for moderate weather and pricing. Photographers will love the lush rainy season despite frequent afternoon downpours. Business travelers prefer the reliable dry season for consistent schedules and comfortable temperatures.