- Vientiane is the only national capital in the world located directly on a border with another country, sitting immediately across the Mekong River from Thailand.
- The city's name is derived from the Pali words for 'city of sandalwood,' although the city was historically known as the 'City of the Moon.'
- During the French colonial period, the city was redesigned with wide boulevards and distinctive colonial villas, many of which still house government offices and restaurants today.
- Vientiane has one of the lowest population densities of any national capital in Southeast Asia, contributing to its quiet, village-like atmosphere.
- The city is home to a significant community of ethnic Vietnamese and Chinese residents, which has historically influenced its local culinary traditions and architecture.
About Vientiane
Vientiane serves as the laid-back administrative capital of Laos, situated along a sweeping bend of the Mekong River. The city is defined by a unique blend of French colonial architecture and gilded Buddhist temples, most notably the iconic gold-covered Pha That Luang Vientiane. Visitors can explore the historic Patuxai monument, which echoes the design of the Arc de Triomphe, or experience the local spiritual life at the ancient Wat Sisaket. The cityscape remains low-rise and tranquil, balancing its role as a national political center with a relaxed pace of life.
Highlights of Vientiane
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Climb to the top of this war memorial for a panoramic view of the city center.
Temples
Visit this national symbol to see the massive stupa covered in gold leaf.
Temples
View the thousands of miniature Buddha statues housed within the niches of this historic cloister.
Temples
Observe local residents seeking blessings at this site, which is often considered the foundation point of the city.
Places of interest
Walk along the riverbank to see the bronze statue of the king pointing toward his former kingdom in Thailand.
Temples
Inspect the mysterious black-colored stupa that locals believe is guarded by a seven-headed naga.
Museums
Examine the extensive collection of artifacts tracing the history of the Lao nation from prehistoric times to independence.
Top things to do in Vientiane
The 85 highest-rated places in Vientiane, ranked by travellers.
1
Historical places
Patuxai is a prominent war memorial and landmark arch located in the center of Vientiane, Laos, dedicated to those who f...
2
Temples
Pha That Luang is the most significant national monument in Laos and a symbol of both the Buddhist religion and Lao sove...
3
Parks
Chao Anouvong Park is a riverside public space located along the Mekong River in Vientiane. The park is anchored by a la...
4
Temples
Wat Pha Tak Suea is a Buddhist temple located on a high cliff overlooking the Mekong River in Nong Khai Province. Its de...
5
Temples
Wat Si Muang is considered the mother temple of Vientiane and serves as the city's spiritual anchor. The temple grounds...
6
Temples
Wat Sisaket is the oldest surviving temple in Vientiane, dating back to 1818. It is renowned for its cloister wall housi...
7
Parks
Patuxay Park surrounds the Patuxay Victory Monument, an iconic war memorial in central Vientiane dedicated to those who...
8
Historical places
Phu Phra Bat Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring unusual sandstone rock formations shaped by erosi...
9
Museums
Ho Phrakeo, historically known as the Emerald Buddha Temple, was originally built in 1565 by King Setthathirath to house...
10
Parks
Phou Phanang National Bio-Diversity Conservation Area is a protected region located in the Vientiane Province, primarily...
11
Temples
That Dam, or the 'Black Stupa,' is a bell-shaped brick monument situated at a major traffic roundabout in central Vienti...
12
Places of interest
Than Thong Waterfall is a multi-tiered, seasonal cascade located in the Sangkhom District of Nong Khai, Thailand. The wa...
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Temples
Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan is a prominent 16th-century Buddhist temple known for housing the largest bronze Buddha image in V...
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Parks
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Vientiane on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Vientiane
November to February, as the weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for walking between city monuments.
2-3 days, sufficient to explore the primary temples and historical sites in the central district.
Tuk-tuks are the primary mode of transport for tourists, while the city center itself is relatively walkable.
The area surrounding the Mekong riverfront offers the highest concentration of hotels and is within walking distance of major dining and nightlife hubs.
Mid-range; while luxury options exist, the city offers high value for accommodation and local food compared to neighboring capital cities.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 85 curated attractions in and around Vientiane, ranked by traveller ratings.
Patuxai is the highest-rated place to visit in Vientiane right now.
The largest category is parks, with 28 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Pakse, Savannakhet, Nakhon Phanom.
Explore more of Laos
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.