Vientiane is one of those places that backpackers either skip entirely or breeze through in a day - but if you slow down, you’ll find there’s more to it than first meets the eye. It’s not a city packed with must-see attractions, but that’s kind of the charm. Life moves at a slower pace here, with plenty of cafés to chill in, temples to wander through, and sunset spots along the Mekong to kick back with a Beerlao. It’s the kind of place that’s perfect for recharging between more intense travel days, and if you give it a chance, you might just end up staying longer than planned.
Travelling Laos? Read: The Ulitmate Backpacking Guide to Laos
When to go to Vientiane
The best time to visit Vientiane is during the cool, dry season from November to February. Temperatures are comfortable (around 20-30°C), humidity is lower, and there’s little rain, making it perfect for exploring the city on foot or by bike.
March to May is the hot season, with temperatures soaring above 35°C - manageable but sweaty.
June to October is rainy season, with heavy downpours, especially in the afternoons. It’s still possible to visit, but some outdoor activities might be affected. However, the city stays pretty quiet year-round, so you won’t have to worry about crowds no matter when you go!
How to get to Vientiane
By Air
Wattay International Airport (VTE) is the main airport serving Vientiane. It’s located just 15–20 minutes from the city centre and has flights from major Southeast Asian cities.
From Bangkok – Multiple daily flights (1h 15m) with Thai Airways, AirAsia, and Lao Airlines.
From Kuala Lumpur – Direct flights (2h 45m) with AirAsia.
From Hanoi – Direct flights (1h 15m) with Vietnam Airlines and Lao Airlines.
From Ho Chi Minh City – Direct flights (1h 30m) with Vietnam Airlines and Lao Airlines.
From Singapore – Some direct flights available, or transit through Bangkok/Kuala Lumpur.
Getting from the Airport to the City
Taxi – Fixed rate of around 60,000 LAK (£2.50) to the city centre.
Tuk-Tuk – Slightly cheaper, but you’ll need to bargain (expect around 40,000-50,000 LAK).
Airport Shuttle – If available, it’s a cheap option (around 15,000 LAK).
Walking – If you’re feeling adventurous, it’s a 5 km walk to the city.
By Land
If you’re travelling overland, you’ll likely be coming from Thailand, Vietnam, or another part of Laos. Here’s how to do it:
From Thailand: The Nong Khai Border Crossing
The Friendship Bridge connects Nong Khai (Thailand) to Vientiane, making it the easiest land border crossing.
Take a train or bus to Nong Khai:
Train from Bangkok – Overnight sleeper train (8-10 hours, from £10-£15) to Nong Khai.
Bus from Bangkok – Direct buses to Vientiane (10-12 hours, around £15-£20).
Train from Chiang Mai – Overnight to Bangkok, then transfer to Nong Khai.
Crossing the Border at the Friendship Bridge:
From Nong Khai train station, take a tuk-tuk to the border (50-100 THB/£1-£2).
Get stamped out of Thailand, take the shuttle bus across the bridge (10 THB/£0.25).
At the Laos side, get a visa on arrival (if needed, $40 USD, plus a small fee for photos).
After immigration, take a tuk-tuk or shared minivan to Vientiane (30–45 mins).
From Vietnam: Bus Routes
Overland travel from Vietnam to Vientiane can be long and uncomfortable, but it’s the budget option.
Hanoi to Vientiane
Sleeper buses take 22-24 hours and cost £20-£30.
This route passes through Nam Phao / Cau Treo border, which can be slow.
Companies: The Sinh Tourist, HTX Van Tai 27-7, King Express.
Hue to Vientiane
Bus takes around 16-18 hours and costs £15-£25.
Da Nang to Vientiane
Bus takes around 20-22 hours and costs £20-£30.
From Laos:
If you’re already in Laos, here’s how to get to Vientiane from major backpacker spots:
From Luang Prabang – VIP bus or minivan (9-11 hours, £15-£20). The road is mountainous and winding, so take motion sickness tablets if needed.
From Vang Vieng – 3-5 hours by minivan (£6-£10). The new expressway makes the journey much smoother.
From Pakse (Southern Laos) – Overnight sleeper bus (10-12 hours, £18-£25).
By River
While not as common anymore, you can still take a boat from Thailand (Chiang Khan) to Vientiane. This option is slow and scenic but requires some planning. You’ll need to take a boat to Pakxan (6-8 hours) and then a bus to Vientiane.
Getting Around Vientiane
Vientiane is a compact and laid-back city, making it easy to explore on foot, by bike, or with local transport. Here’s a breakdown of the best ways to get around:
Walking
Vientiane’s city centre is small and flat, so walking is one of the best ways to explore. Many attractions, like Patuxai, That Luang, and the Mekong riverside, are within a couple of kilometers of each other.
Best for: Exploring temples, markets, and cafés at your own pace.
Downsides: Can be hot and humid, especially midday.
Renting a Bicycle
Many guesthouses and hostels rent bikes for around 20,000–30,000 LAK (£0.80-£1.20) per day. Some cafés and shops also offer rentals. Cycling is a great way to explore the city at a relaxed pace.
Best for: Covering more ground without spending too much.
Downsides: Traffic can be chaotic, so stay alert.
Renting a Motorbike
If you want more freedom to explore beyond the city, renting a motorbike is a solid option. Rentals cost around 60,000–100,000 LAK (£2.50-£4) per day.
Best for: Visiting places like Buddha Park (27 km away) or taking a day trip.
Downsides: Roads can be rough, and traffic rules are loose—only rent if you’re comfortable riding.
Travel Tip
You’ll need an international driving permit (IDP), and some rental places will ask for a passport deposit.
Tuk-Tuks & Taxis
Tuk-tuks are the most common way to get around if you’re not walking or biking. Prices aren’t fixed, so always negotiate before hopping in.
Short trips around the city: 30,000–50,000 LAK (£1.20-£2). Longer trips (like Buddha Park): 100,000–150,000 LAK (£4-£6)
Best for: Quick rides when you don’t feel like walking.
Downsides: Prices can be inflated for tourists - always haggle!
Taxis are less common but are available for airport transfers and longer trips. Expect to pay 60,000-100,000 LAK (£2.50-£4) for a short ride.
Ride-Hailing Apps (LOCA)
Vientiane has its own local ride-hailing app called LOCA (similar to Grab/Uber). It’s cheaper and more reliable than tuk-tuks, and you don’t have to negotiate prices.
Best for: Getting a fair price without haggling.
Downsides: Not as widely available as tuk-tuks.
Local Buses & Shared Minivans
Vientiane has a basic public bus system, but it’s not commonly used by backpackers. However, some shared minivans operate between popular areas like the airport, bus stations, and border crossings.
Best for: Budget travellers heading to the airport or Friendship Bridge.
Downsides: Limited routes and unpredictable schedules.
Boat Trips on the Mekong
While not really a transport option, you can take short boat trips on the Mekong River for sunset cruises or scenic rides. Prices vary but expect to pay 50,000–100,000 LAK (£2-£4) per person.
Where to stay in Vientiane
Barn 1920s Hostel - Stylish and affordable and great for meeting other backpackers!
Things to do in Vientiane
1. Visit Pha That Luang
No trip to Vientiane is complete without seeing Pha That Luang, Laos’ most important national monument. This stunning golden stupa is a symbol of Lao culture and Buddhism. The entrance fee is minimal, making it a great stop for budget travellers.
2. Explore Patuxai (Victory Monument)
Often compared to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, Patuxai is a war memorial dedicated to those who fought for independence from France. You can climb to the top for just a small fee, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city.
3. Wander Along the Mekong Riverside
The Mekong River is the heart of Vientiane’s social life. The riverside promenade is perfect for a sunset walk, and you’ll find plenty of cheap street food vendors selling Lao delicacies. Grab a Beerlao, sit back, and soak in the views.
4. Chill at a Riverside Café
If you’re looking for a relaxed afternoon, check out one of the many cafes along the river. Places like Kung’s Café and Le Trio Coffee offer great coffee, chill vibes, and an escape from the midday heat.
5. Try the Street Food at the Night Market
Vientiane’s Night Market is a must for backpackers looking for cheap and delicious food. From Lao-style baguettes (khao jee) to grilled meats and noodle soups, you won’t go hungry. Plus, it’s a great place to pick up souvenirs.
6. Visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
A short bus ride from the city, Buddha Park is an otherworldly sculpture garden filled with giant Buddha statues and mythical creatures. It’s a quirky, budget-friendly excursion that’s perfect for an afternoon trip.
7. Relax in a Traditional Lao Sauna
After days of traveling, a herbal sauna is the perfect way to unwind. The Wat Sok Pa Luang sauna is a popular choice for backpackers, offering traditional Lao steam baths and massages at reasonable prices.
8. Check Out COPE Visitor Centre
For a more educational experience, visit the COPE Visitor Centre, which highlights the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the Vietnam War. It’s a sobering but important stop to understand Laos’ history.
9. Take a Cooking Class
If you’re a foodie, consider taking a Lao cooking class. Many local spots offer affordable lessons where you can learn to make sticky rice, papaya salad, and traditional Lao curries.
10. Enjoy Vientiane’s Backpacker Nightlife
While Vientiane isn’t known for wild parties, there are still some fun backpacker-friendly bars. Bor Pen Nyang is a popular spot with cheap drinks and a great view, while Samlo Pub offers a more laid-back vibe.
11. Visit the Beerlao Factory and Museum
For beer lovers, the Beerlao Factory and Museum is a must-visit. Beerlao is the most famous beer in Laos, and this tour gives you insight into its brewing process. You’ll learn about the history of Beerlao, see how it’s made, and, of course, sample some fresh brews. It’s an affordable and fun experience, especially if you’re a fan of Southeast Asian beers.
Place to Eat and Drink in Vientiane
Vientiane has plenty of affordable and delicious places to eat and drink. Here are some of the best spots for backpackers:
The Tipsy Elephant – A lively backpacker-friendly bar with cheap drinks, a great atmosphere, and regular social events.
Makphet Restaurant – A socially responsible eatery that trains disadvantaged youth, serving delicious Lao cuisine.
Noy’s Fruit Heaven – Perfect for smoothies, fruit shakes, and healthy vegetarian-friendly meals.
Khop Chai Deu – A great mix of Lao and Western food, with a lively bar scene at night.
Lao Kitchen – A fantastic spot for authentic Lao dishes like laap and tam mak hoong (papaya salad).
House of Fruit Shakes – A budget-friendly favourite among backpackers for fresh fruit shakes and quick bites.
Bor Pen Nyang – A classic backpacker bar with cheap Beerlao, happy hour deals, and a rooftop view of the Mekong River.
Ban Vilaylac – A hidden gem for traditional Lao food, known for its excellent laap and sticky rice.
Ai Capone – One of the best places for pizza in Vientiane, with great portions and reasonable prices.
Doi Ka Noi – A highly-rated local restaurant serving seasonal Lao dishes made with fresh ingredients.
Tyson Kitchen – A popular spot for Western comfort food, especially burgers and wood-fired pizzas.
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