Home › Destinations › Morning Market (Talat Sao)
Morning Market (Talat Sao), ປະເທດລາວ - Things to Do in Morning Market (Talat Sao)

Things to Do in Morning Market (Talat Sao)

Morning Market (Talat Sao), ປະເທດລາວ - Complete Travel Guide

Morning Market (Talat Sao) is the bustling commercial heart of Vientiane, Laos' capital city, serving as both a major shopping destination and cultural hub. This sprawling market complex consists of the original outdoor morning market and the modern Talat Sao Mall, offering everything from traditional Lao textiles and handicrafts to electronics, jewelry, and local street food. The market provides visitors with an authentic glimpse into daily Lao life, where locals shop for fresh produce, spices, and household goods alongside tourists hunting for souvenirs and traditional crafts. Vientiane itself is a charming riverside capital that blends French colonial architecture with Buddhist temples and modern development. The city sits along the Mekong River, offering a relaxed atmosphere compared to other Southeast Asian capitals, with tree-lined boulevards, sidewalk cafes, and numerous temples that reflect the country's deep Buddhist heritage. The Morning Market serves as an excellent starting point for exploring Vientiane's rich culture, friendly people, and unique position as one of the region's most laid-back capital cities.

Top Things to Do in Morning Market (Talat Sao)

Explore Traditional Handicraft Stalls

Browse through dozens of stalls selling authentic Lao textiles, including intricate silk scarves, traditional sinh skirts, and hand-woven fabrics. The market is renowned for its selection of locally-made crafts, silver jewelry, and wood carvings that make perfect souvenirs. Many vendors are artisans themselves and can explain the cultural significance and production methods of their goods.

Booking Tip: No advance booking needed - arrive early (7-9 AM) for the best selection and cooler temperatures. Bargaining is expected, so start at about 50% of the asking price. Look for vendors who speak some English and can provide authenticity certificates for expensive silk items.

Sample Local Street Food

The market's food section offers an incredible variety of Lao street food, from fresh tropical fruits to traditional dishes like laap, som tam, and sticky rice. Small food stalls and vendors throughout the market serve authentic local breakfast and lunch options at very affordable prices. This is one of the best places in Vientiane to experience genuine Lao flavors in a local setting.

Booking Tip: No booking required - bring small bills (1,000-10,000 kip notes) as vendors rarely have change for large denominations. Peak meal times are 7-9 AM and 11 AM-1 PM. Look for stalls with high turnover and locals eating there for the freshest food.

Shop for Precious Stones and Jewelry

The market features numerous jewelry shops specializing in Lao gemstones, silver work, and traditional ornaments. Local artisans create beautiful pieces using techniques passed down through generations, often incorporating Buddhist symbols and traditional Lao motifs. The selection ranges from affordable silver earrings to high-end gemstone jewelry.

Booking Tip: Prices range from $5-500+ depending on materials and craftsmanship. Best deals are found by comparing prices across multiple stalls before purchasing. Reputable dealers will provide certificates for expensive items and may offer shipping services for valuable purchases.

Visit the Modern Talat Sao Mall

The air-conditioned mall section offers a more comfortable shopping experience with organized shops, fixed prices, and modern amenities. Here you'll find electronics, cosmetics, clothing, and upscale souvenir shops alongside traditional market goods. The mall also houses several restaurants and cafes, making it a good place to escape the heat and enjoy a meal.

Booking Tip: Mall operates daily 8 AM-8 PM with fixed prices (no bargaining). ATMs and currency exchange available inside. Best visited during midday heat (11 AM-3 PM) when outdoor market becomes uncomfortably hot.

Experience Early Morning Market Life

Arrive at dawn to witness the market coming alive as vendors set up their stalls and locals begin their daily shopping routines. The early morning atmosphere provides excellent photography opportunities and a chance to see the market's authentic function as a community gathering place. Fresh produce, flowers, and prepared foods are at their peak during these early hours.

Booking Tip: Arrive between 6-7 AM for the most authentic experience - bring a camera and small flashlight as lighting can be dim. Wear comfortable walking shoes as floors may be wet from cleaning. Consider hiring a local guide ($10-15) to explain the cultural significance of various goods and practices.

Getting There

Morning Market is located in central Vientiane, easily accessible from Wattay International Airport via taxi (20-30 minutes, $8-12) or tuk-tuk ($5-8). The market is within walking distance of most city center hotels and guesthouses, typically 5-15 minutes on foot. Local buses and songthaews (shared taxis) also serve the area, though these can be crowded during peak hours. For those arriving from other parts of Laos, the market is just a few blocks from the main bus terminal and easily reached by motorcycle taxi or on foot.

Getting Around

The market area is best explored on foot, as the complex is compact and parking is limited. Tuk-tuks and motorcycle taxis are readily available outside the market for trips to other parts of Vientiane, with short rides costing 10,000-20,000 kip ($1-2). Bicycle rentals are popular for exploring the broader city center, available from nearby guesthouses and rental shops for about $2-3 per day. The market is also a central hub for local transportation, with bus stops and taxi stands nearby for accessing other attractions in Vientiane.

Where to Stay

City Center near Morning Market
Riverside Mekong area
French Quarter colonial district
That Luang temple vicinity
Fountain Square area
Sisaket temple neighborhood

Food & Dining

The Morning Market area offers exceptional street food and local dining experiences, from the market's own food stalls serving traditional Lao breakfast dishes to nearby restaurants specializing in regional cuisine. The surrounding streets feature numerous local eateries, French-influenced cafes, and international restaurants catering to both locals and tourists. Popular dishes to try include fresh spring rolls, Lao coffee, barbecued meats, and tropical fruit smoothies. Many vendors speak basic English and are happy to explain ingredients and preparation methods, making it an ideal place for culinary exploration.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Vientiane

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

La Terrasse

4.5 /5
(1251 reviews) 2

Tango Pub Bar Restaurant

4.6 /5
(450 reviews) 2

Cafe Ango

4.7 /5
(314 reviews) 2
cafe

Le Khem Khong

4.8 /5
(211 reviews)
bar

Bistro 22

4.5 /5
(213 reviews) 2

Home Vientiane

4.6 /5
(160 reviews)
cafe park

When to Visit

The best time to visit Morning Market is during Laos' cool, dry season from November to February when temperatures are more comfortable for walking and shopping. Early morning visits (6-9 AM) offer the most authentic experience with the freshest goods and coolest temperatures, while avoiding the midday heat that can make outdoor shopping uncomfortable. The market operates year-round, but during the hot season (March-May) and rainy season (June-October), indoor sections and early morning visits are preferable for comfort.

Insider Tips

Bring a reusable bag as plastic bags are being phased out, and having your own bag makes vendors more willing to negotiate prices
Learn basic Lao numbers and greetings - vendors appreciate the effort and often offer better prices to friendly customers who attempt to speak Lao
Keep your valuables secure and be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially during peak shopping hours between 8-11 AM when the market is busiest

Explore Activities in Morning Market (Talat Sao)