Absolute Asia/Destinations/Laos/Places to Visit/Vientiane

Private Journeys in Vientiane
The Essence of Vientiane
Our Laos travel guides are written by experts who visit regularly to uncover new experiences, revisit top sights, and stay updated on the best hotels, guides, and local tips.
The Mekong River has long been the spine and lifeblood of Laos as it meanders from the far north to the very south of this landlocked nation. Along its route, the river passes by Vientiane the capital city of Laos.
Frequently the first stop of tourists coming to Laos, Vientiane is a riverbank city where one can spend a short time seeing a different aspect of Lao culture before exploring the rest. Unlike the spirituality of Luang Prabang or the natural splendor of the deep south, Vientiane will show you Laos’s broader history and the urban life of the city. Let Absolute Asia Tours guide you through the best things to do in Vientiane!
The relaxed manner of Laos can be particularly seen in Vientiane, which is signature for Lao culture. Before the French came in the late 1800s, its significance fluctuated over the ensuing centuries. Things started to calm down when the civil war ended and the Pathet Lao party emerged victorious.
Vientiane is best enjoyed for its relaxed environment, French colonial architecture, and scattering of revered Buddhist temples, even if it offers only a few attractions to cross off a traveler’s must-see list. The Patuxai memorial, resembling the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, is located in the center of the city and is best seen at night when it is brilliantly lit.
Take a morning walk through Talat Sao Market to start the day, and then continue on through the French Colonial area. Temple lovers must see the venerated (and glittering) Wat Pha That Luang, and the neighboring Buddha Park is a unique collection of more than 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues arranged in well-kept gardens.
There are now many excellent options to sample both traditional and contemporary Laotian food, which is frequently combined with French and other international cuisine, thanks to the growing restaurant and bar culture that has been fueled by the expat community. Watch the sun set over the Mekong at a riverbank café in the evening.
If you want to add Vientiane to your Laos tour as the first stop or enjoy the charm of this city for a longer time, let Absolute Asia Tours bring you a perfect itinerary for your needs!
Our Favorite Journeys
Vientiane, at Its Best Right Now
Northern Laos Adventure
12 DAYS
Northern Laos Adventure: Rivers, Jungles & Tribes Discover the spectacular scenery and rich culture of Northern Laos on this adventure-filled journey of trekkin
Luang Prabang to Hanoi & Halong Bay
9 DAYS
Luang Prabang to Hanoi & Halong Bay Discover the highlights of northern Laos and Vietnam on this exciting tour! Start in Vientiane, Laos’s sleepy riverside capi
Luxury Indochina Experience by Private Jet
12 Days
Luxury Indochina Experience by Private Jet Experience Southeast Asia in luxury and comfort aboard a private jet. Begin your journey in Bangkok, where you can vi
Places to Visit
Top Places to Visit in Vientiane
Luang Prabang
Luang Prabang is the ancient town situated in northern Laos. In 1995, it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. The global body described it as an outstandi
DiscoverVang Vieng
Located on the Nam Song River, Vang Vieng is a tourism-oriented town in Laos. It takes about four hours ride to the north from the capital Vientiane to Vang Vie
DiscoverSi Phan Don (4000 Islands)
Si Phan Don, or the 4000 Islands, is a peaceful destination in southern Laos. This unique area, with its breathtaking islands and sandbanks, is shaped by the se
DiscoverYour Route Through Vientiane
Vientiane, charted by hand
Read Before You Go
Guides & Stories from Vientiane
Best Private Asia Luxury Tours for Americans
https://www.absoluteasiatours.com/blogs/best-private-asia-luxury-tours-for-americans/
Read moreBest Things to Do in Asia
Planning a trip to Asia? Our guide to the best things to do covers 20+ countries, including Thailand, Japan, and Vietnam. Find travel ideas for temples, beaches
Read moreLuang Prabang Highlights
Discover the magic of Luang Prabang with a guided tour of its stunning temples, vibrant markets, and artisan villages. Immerse yourself in local culture and exp
Read moreWhen to Go
Start Planning
Ready to see Vientiane on your own terms?
Share a few details and a private travel designer will reach out within one business day.
