City scores
Practical info
Vientiane, the capital of Laos, offers a unique glimpse into its colonial past with a stroll down Rue Samsenthai, where French colonial architecture stands alongside traditional Lao homes. The Lao National Museum, located in a former French colonial building, provides a rich narrative of the country's history, from prehistoric times to the present. A visit to the COPE Visitor Centre on Khouvieng Road is both informative and impactful, shedding light on the rehabilitation efforts for those affected by unexploded ordnances from the Vietnam War. Here, you can learn about the ongoing challenges faced by many Laotians and see prosthetic limbs and wheelchairs manufactured by COPE. For a taste of local cuisine, head to Ban Anou Night Market on Quai Fa Ngum. Here, you can sample traditional dishes like laap (a spicy meat salad) and khao jee (Lao-style baguette sandwiches), offering an authentic taste of Vientiane's street food culture.
Best time to visit
November through February — cooler temperatures and dry weather make it ideal for exploring the city.
Month by month
Cool and dry, ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Continues to be dry and pleasant, a great time for temple visits.
Temperatures begin to rise, but still manageable for exploring.
Hot and dry, with Lao New Year celebrations drawing visitors.
The onset of the rainy season, with occasional showers.
Rain becomes more frequent, cooling the air slightly.
Continued rain, reducing tourist numbers significantly.
Heavy rainfall persists, making it a quieter time to visit.
Rain starts to taper off, with lush green landscapes.
End of the rainy season, weather becomes more pleasant.
Cooler, dry season begins, perfect for outdoor activities.
Cool and dry, a popular time for tourists to visit.
Highlights
- ✦COPE Visitor Centre — Insightful exhibits on rehabilitation efforts for UXO-affected Laotians.
- ✦Pha That Luang — The national symbol of Laos, a stunning gold-covered Buddhist stupa.
- ✦Lao National Museum — Housed in a French colonial building, showcasing Laos' rich history.
- ✦Ban Anou Night Market — Street food haven with local specialties like laap and khao jee.
- ✦Wat Si Saket — The oldest temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of Buddha statues.
Hidden gems
Practical tips
- ·Tuk-tuks are a common mode of transport, but always negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
- ·Many places close early by Western standards, so plan dinners and activities accordingly.
- ·Vientiane is generally safe, but be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas like markets.
- ·ATMs are widely available, but carry some cash as not all places accept cards, especially in markets.
Budget estimate
₭550,000–800,000 LAK / day (mid-range)
