Vientiane Morning Market (Talat Sao)

Overview

Vientiane Morning Market, also known as Talat Sao, is a bustling market in the heart of Vientiane. It offers a unique cultural experience with a variety of local goods, food, and souvenirs.

This market is a central hub for locals and tourists, showcasing the daily life and commerce of Vientiane.

Cultural Local Shopping

Location

Address

Ave. Lane Xang, Vientiane

Neighborhood: Downtown Vientiane

Coordinates

17.973100, 102.621100

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free

Children

Free

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November to February

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fresh produce and fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

hot and humid

• fresh fruits and vegetables

summer

hot and rainy

• rainy season specials

autumn

cool and dry

• cool weather items

winter

cool and pleasant

• holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Bargaining is expected
Bring small bills
Respect local customs

What to Bring

essential

cash water bargaining skills

seasonal

umbrella hat

not allowed

large bags disrespectful behavior

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: low

• crowded spaces
• sun exposure

Medical facilities: basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, some vendors accept cards

Currency

Lao kip (LAK)

Typical Costs

entry $0

parking $1-2

food $3-10

souvenirs $2-20

Dress Code

modest and respectful, comfortable and breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, revealing clothing, offensive attire

Booking Tips

• not typically required
• walk-in
• not applicable
• not applicable

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Vientiane Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Market map, Local tips, Language guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: limited availability

Charging Stations: not available

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Wattay International Airport

Distance: 5 km

Travel Time: 15 minutes

taxi

$5-10 15 min

public_transport

$1 20 min

From City Center

Distance: 1 km

walking

$0 15 min

taxi

$3-5 5 min

tuk-tuk

$2-3 5-10 min

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: central part of daily life and commerce

Historical Significance: traditional market since the 1950s

Insider Tips

Best bargains found in the morning
Hidden gems in the less crowded sections

Local Recommendations

• Try sticky rice and laap
• Visit nearby temples
• Explore local coffee shops

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Sabaidee

thank_you Khop chai

where_is Ko doi...yo tee nia?

how_much Tao dai baw?

beautiful Nong

ticket Lao

Guide Languages: Lao, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Market entrance

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture the bustling scene

Result: Vibrant market shots

#Laos #Vientiane #MarketLife

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, public spaces

prohibited areas private stalls without permission

flash photography use discretion

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Pha That Luang

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Religious Site

Patuxai

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Monument

COPE Visitor Centre

Distance: 1.5km

Walking: 20 min

Type: Museum

Wat Si Muang