Things to Do in Mekong Riverside Park
Mekong Riverside Park, ປະເທດລາວ - Complete Travel Guide
Mekong Riverside Park in Vientiane, Laos, serves as the capital city's premier waterfront destination along the mighty Mekong River. This scenic park offers visitors a peaceful retreat from the bustling city streets, featuring well-maintained walking paths, traditional Lao architecture, and stunning sunset views across the river to Thailand. The park has become a central gathering place for both locals and tourists, hosting cultural events, festivals, and providing a perfect vantage point to appreciate the natural beauty that defines this charming Southeast Asian capital.
Vientiane itself represents a unique blend of French colonial heritage and traditional Lao culture, making it one of the most relaxed and accessible capital cities in the region. The city's compact size allows visitors to easily explore its golden temples, colonial buildings, and vibrant markets on foot or by bicycle. With its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and authentic Southeast Asian charm, Vientiane offers an intimate glimpse into Lao culture while serving as an ideal base for exploring the broader Mekong region.
Top Things to Do in Mekong Riverside Park
Sunset River Cruise
Experience the Mekong River's golden hour beauty aboard a traditional long-tail boat or modern cruise vessel. These leisurely cruises offer spectacular views of both the Lao and Thai coastlines while enjoying local refreshments and traditional music.
Booking Tip: Book directly at the riverside or through your hotel for $15-25 per person. Evening cruises (5-7 PM) offer the best sunset views, but book early during peak season as boats fill up quickly.
Temple Walking Tour
Explore Vientiane's magnificent Buddhist temples, including the iconic That Luang stupa and the mysterious Wat Sisaket with its thousands of Buddha images. These sacred sites showcase centuries of Lao religious art and architecture.
Booking Tip: Self-guided visits cost $1-2 entry per temple, or join organized tours for $20-30 including transport and guide. Visit early morning (7-9 AM) to avoid crowds and heat while experiencing morning prayers.
Traditional Cooking Class
Learn to prepare authentic Lao dishes like larb, tam mak hoong (papaya salad), and sticky rice in hands-on cooking sessions. Classes typically include market visits to source fresh ingredients and insights into Lao culinary traditions.
Booking Tip: Book classes for $25-40 per person through cooking schools or guesthouses. Morning classes often include market tours, while evening sessions focus on dinner preparation. Reserve 1-2 days in advance.
Night Market Shopping
Browse the vibrant evening markets along the Mekong riverfront, featuring local handicrafts, textiles, street food, and souvenirs. The markets come alive after sunset with food stalls, live music, and a festive atmosphere.
Booking Tip: Markets are free to enter and operate 5-10 PM daily. Bring small bills for bargaining and try the $1-3 street food options. The riverside night market offers the best atmosphere and river views.
Bicycle City Tour
Cycle through Vientiane's tree-lined streets, French colonial districts, and local neighborhoods on guided or self-guided bike tours. This eco-friendly exploration method allows intimate access to hidden temples, local markets, and residential areas.
Booking Tip: Rent bikes for $2-5 per day or join guided tours for $15-25 including bike and guide. Early morning or late afternoon rides avoid midday heat. Many guesthouses offer free bike rentals to guests.
Getting There
Wattay International Airport serves Vientiane with direct flights from major Southeast Asian cities including Bangkok, Hanoi, and Siem Reap, with most international visitors connecting through Thailand. Overland travel is popular via the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge from Nong Khai, Thailand, accessible by train or bus from Bangkok (12-14 hours total journey). Buses also connect Vientiane to other Lao destinations like Luang Prabang (8-10 hours) and Vietnamese cities via scenic mountain routes, though roads can be challenging during rainy season.
Getting Around
Vientiane's compact city center is easily walkable, with most attractions within 2-3 kilometers of the Mekong riverfront. Tuk-tuks are abundant for short trips ($1-3) while motorbike taxis offer quick transportation for $0.50-2 per ride. Bicycle rental is extremely popular and practical given the flat terrain and relatively light traffic, with rental shops throughout the city charging $2-5 per day. For longer distances, shared songthaews (pickup trucks) run fixed routes for under $1, while private taxis can be arranged through hotels.
Where to Stay
Mekong Riverfront
City Center Historic District
That Luang Area
Fountain Circle (Nam Phu)
Morning Market District
French Quarter
Food & Dining
Vientiane's dining scene beautifully blends traditional Lao cuisine with French colonial influences and modern international options. Street food stalls along the Mekong offer authentic experiences with dishes like foe (noodle soup) and grilled fish for $1-3, while the night markets provide excellent sampling opportunities. Mid-range restaurants serve refined Lao cuisine and French-inspired dishes for $5-15 per meal, often in charming colonial buildings or garden settings. The city is famous for its strong coffee culture, with numerous cafes serving excellent Lao coffee, French pastries, and light meals throughout the day.
When to Visit
The cool, dry season from November to February offers the most comfortable weather with temperatures around 20-25°C (68-77°F) and minimal rainfall, making it peak tourist season. March to May brings hot, dry weather with temperatures reaching 35°C (95°F), but fewer crowds and lower prices. The rainy season from June to October features afternoon thunderstorms and high humidity, but also lush green landscapes, dramatic skies for photography, and the lowest accommodation rates, though some activities may be weather-dependent.
Insider Tips
Visit temples early morning to witness monks collecting alms and avoid afternoon heat - dress modestly with covered shoulders and knees
The Mekong riverside is perfect for evening strolls and sunset photography, with the best light occurring 30 minutes before sunset around 6 PM
Learn basic Lao greetings like 'sabaidee' (hello) as locals greatly appreciate the effort and it often leads to warmer interactions and better prices