Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan
A historic Buddhist temple in central Vientiane, known for its large Buddha image and quiet atmosphere.
HoursOpen 24 hours daily
AdmissionFree
Travel tipVisit in the morning or late afternoon for a calmer experience.
Vientiane travel guide
LaosBasics
CountryLaos
Time zoneAsia/Vientiane
CurrencyLAK
Official language(s)Lao
In Vientiane, renting a bicycle is recommended over public transportation.
Places to visit
Wat Inpeng
A quiet temple that showcases traditional Lao temple architecture and is easy to visit from the city center.
HoursOpen 24 hours daily
AdmissionFree
Travel tipBe respectful, as there may be local worshippers during your visit.
Wat Si Muang
A highly revered temple in Vientiane, believed by locals to offer protective power.
HoursOpen 24 hours daily
AdmissionFree
Travel tipQuietly observe the offerings and devotional rituals performed by visitors.
Wat Si Saket
A historic temple in Vientiane known for thousands of Buddha images and its graceful cloister. It is easy to reach from the city center and works well for a short visit.
HoursDaily 08:00-12:00, 13:00-16:00
AdmissionPaid
Travel tipTake your time to look at the murals and the Buddha niches in the cloister.
Patuxai
A war monument resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, symbolizing Laotian independence.
HoursDaily 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
AdmissionFree
Travel tipVisit in the evening for beautiful night views.
That Luang
Laos's most important Buddhist temple and a national monument.
HoursDaily 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM
AdmissionFree
Travel tipVisit early in the morning for a peaceful experience.
Chao Anouvong Park
A beautiful park located near the Mekong River, popular among locals for leisurely strolls.
HoursAlways Open
AdmissionFree
Travel tipGo around sunset for stunning views.
National Museum
A museum showcasing the history and culture of Laos.
HoursTue-Sun 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Admission10,000 kip
Travel tipDefinitely stop by if you want to learn about Laos's past.
Food to try
Kualao Restaurant
A well-known restaurant in Vientiane for enjoying Lao traditional cuisine in a relaxed setting.
HoursDaily 11:00–22:00
AdmissionMeal price range per person: mid to high
Travel tipIt can get busy at dinner time, so booking ahead is a good idea.
Talat Sao
A market where you can enjoy various street foods and shopping.
HoursDaily 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Admission10,000 - 50,000 kip
Travel tipStop by if you're looking for affordable and delicious food.
Khao Niew
A popular restaurant serving Laos traditional dish Khao Niew.
HoursDaily 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Admission50,000 - 100,000 kip
Travel tipA must-visit if you want to taste local flavors.
Events
Pi Mai Lao (Lao New Year)
The biggest holiday in Laos, marked by blessing rituals and water splashing on Buddha images. Vientiane becomes lively with water festivities and family gatherings throughout the city.
WhenAround April every year
HoursAnnual event
AdmissionFree
Travel tipWear clothes you do not mind getting wet and bring a waterproof bag.
That Luang Festival
One of Laos’ largest Buddhist festivals, held at That Luang in Vientiane. Alms-giving, processions, and market activities combine to create a deeply local festival experience.
WhenAround November every year
HoursAnnual event
AdmissionFree
Travel tipMornings and evenings are the liveliest; plan for traffic congestion.
Basic travel phrases (English)
Hello
Hello · Greeting
Thank you
Thank you · Thanks
Nice to meet you
Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you
Have a great day
Have a great day · Wishing a good day
Welcome
Welcome · Welcome