Vientiane Cultural Tour with Private Guide

Vientiane , Laos

Vientiane Cultural Tour with Private Guide

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(71 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy your private tour with our English speaking tour guide in air-conditioned Minivan.
Itinerary can be customised to include coffee break or some shopping. We will suggest to you local lunch but you can request for others (Vegetarian, halal or skip lunch). Feel free to let us know your requirements.

All entrance Tickets are included in tour price.

Available options

Private Tour - Vientiane City

English speaking guide<br/>Duration: 7 hours<br/>Private A/C Minivan <br/>Tickets included<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private A/C minivan

All entrance tickets

English speaking guide

Hotel pickup

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) is an open-air sculpture park with giant sculptures of Buddha and Hindu deities. Located 25km southeast of Vientiane, the park was founded in 1958 by monk and sculpture artist, Bunleua Sulila.

Stop 2

Patuxai is a war monument in the centre of Vientiane, Laos, built between 1957 and 1968. The Patuxai was dedicated to those who fought in the struggle for independence from France

Stop 3

Wat Si Saket is the only temple in Laos that survived the Siamese occupation, which destroyed much of the capital in 1828. It features over 10,000 Buddha sculptures of varying sizes and styles.

Stop 4

Pha That Luang is a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa in the centre of the city of Vientiane, Laos, built in the 3rd century,

Stop 5

Vientiane boasts several beautiful temples or wats, but one of the most impressive and interesting of them is Wat Ho Phra Keo.

Stop 6

Our guide will stop by the Presidential Palace.

Stop 7

Past Secret War in Laos

Wat Si Muang is one of Vientiane’s most popular sites of worship, and offers a fascinating insight into how old animist beliefs have blended seamlessly with Theravada Buddhism.

According to local legend, when the temple was being built in 1563 a young pregnant woman named Si Muang volunteered to sacrifice herself to appease the angry spirits. She threw herself into a hole in the ground where the building’s central pillar was to be placed, and was crushed when the massive pillar was lowered into position. This central pillar also formed the centre of the town that was springing up around Wat Si Muang, which to this day is revered as the ‘mother temple’ of Vientiane.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

41 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.8

30 reviews

5★

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Vientiane

Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos, known for its laid-back atmosphere, Buddhist temples, and French colonial architecture. Situated on the banks of the Mekong River, it offers a unique blend of traditional Lao culture and modern influences.

Top Attractions

Pha That Luang

This is the most important Buddhist monument in Laos, a golden stupa that symbolizes the pure land of Buddhism.

Religious 1-2 hours Moderate ($2 entry fee)

Patuxai

This is a famous landmark in Vientiane, often referred to as the Arc de Triomphe of Laos, built to commemorate Lao soldiers who fought in World War II.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate ($1 entry fee)

COPE Visitor Center

A museum dedicated to the history of Laos during the Secret War and the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) on the country.

Museum 1 hour Free (donations welcome)

Wat Si Muang

One of the most revered temples in Vientiane, known for its intricate carvings and historical significance.

Religious 1 hour Moderate ($1 entry fee)

Mekong Riverfront

The Mekong Riverfront is a scenic area along the river, perfect for leisurely walks, enjoying the sunset, and experiencing local life.

Nature Anytime Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Laap

A traditional Lao dish made with minced meat (usually chicken, beef, or fish) mixed with herbs, spices, and lime juice, served with sticky rice.

Main Dish Contains meat, can be made with chicken, beef, or fish

Tam Mak Hoong (Green Papaya Salad)

A spicy and tangy salad made with green papaya, tomatoes, chili, lime juice, and fish sauce.

Salad Vegetarian version available (without fish sauce)

Khao Piak Sen

A comforting noodle soup made with rice noodles, chicken or pork, and a flavorful broth.

Soup Contains meat, can be made with chicken or pork

Sai Oua (Lao Sausage)

A grilled sausage made with minced pork, herbs, and spices, served with sticky rice.

Appetizer Contains pork

Popular Activities

Kayaking on the Mekong River Caving in Vang Vieng Hiking in Buddha Park Sunset views along the Mekong Riverfront Spa and wellness treatments Picnicking in parks Temple visits Traditional Lao dance performances

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the most pleasant time to visit with lower humidity and cooler temperatures. It's ideal for exploring the city and enjoying outdoor activities.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Lao
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Limited/Rare

Currency

Lao Kip (LAK)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Vientiane is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets and petty theft
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services
• Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Wattay International Airport • 5 km from city center

By bus

Northern Bus Station, Southern Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are affordable but can be crowded. Routes and schedules are not always clearly marked.

Taxis

Available • Apps: No widely used apps, negotiate fares directly

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

City Center Ban Anou Sisaket

Day trips

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

25 km from Vientiane • Half day

A unique park featuring hundreds of Buddhist and Hindu statues, as well as a large reclining Buddha. The park is a popular day trip from Vientiane.

Kaysone Phomvihane (Formerly Thakhek)

230 km from Vientiane • Full day

A scenic town along the Mekong River, known for its limestone karst formations and outdoor activities like kayaking and cycling.

Vang Vieng

150 km from Vientiane • Full day or overnight

A picturesque town surrounded by limestone karsts and the Nam Song River, known for its outdoor activities, stunning landscapes, and laid-back atmosphere.

Festivals

Pi Mai (Lao New Year) • Mid-April (dates vary) Boun Ok Phansa (End of Buddhist Lent) • October (dates vary) That Luang Festival • November (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Lao phrases to enhance your experience and connect with locals
Carry small denominations of Lao Kip for street vendors and markets
Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites
Use reputable tour operators and transportation services to avoid scams
Be cautious when using ATMs and exchanging money, and always carry cash