Vientiane , Laos

Vientiane Full Day City Tour

Active

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the timeless charm of Vientiane in a full day guided tour designed for culture lovers, photographers, and curious travelers. Begin your journey at the majestic Pha That Luang – the golden stupa and national symbol of Laos. Stroll through the colonial lanes to Patuxay Monument, Laos’ own Arc de Triomphe, before heading to the tranquil Wat Si Saket, home to thousands of Buddha images.

Visit the sacred Ho Phra Keo, the former royal temple turned museum and enjoy a delicious local lunch at a traditional Lao restaurant. In the afternoon, escape the city bustle at the surreal Buddha Park, where Hindu and Buddhist sculptures blend myth and art in one place.

✅ Small-group tour with personalized guide
✅ Local insights, air-conditioned transportation, and cultural storytelling
✅ Perfect for first-time visitors to Vientiane!

Available options

Vientiane Full Day City Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Water

English Speaking Guide

Air - condition Transportation

Entrance fee

Lunch

Detailed itinerary

You’ll explore the most sacred monument in Laos, symbolizing the country’s Buddhist heritage and national pride. The guide will share fascinating stories about its golden stupa, history dating back to the 16th century, and religious rituals held here. Guests will have time to walk around, take photos, and immerse in the peaceful spiritual atmosphere.

Stop 2

The Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane OR Patuxay, meaning “Victory Gate,” is one of Vientiane’s most iconic landmarks.
Built in the 1960s to honor those who fought for Laos’ independence, this grand monument blends traditional Lao motifs with French colonial architecture — often compared to Paris’ Arc de Triomphe, but with a unique local spirit.

Climb to the top for panoramic views over the capital city, explore intricate carvings and lotus flower patterns, and enjoy the peaceful fountains surrounding the park. Patuxay is not just a monument — it’s a proud symbol of Lao resilience, culture, and hope for the future.

Stop 3

Wat Si Saket – The Oldest Temple in Vientiane
Step into serenity at Wat Si Saket, the oldest surviving temple in Vientiane, built in 1818.
This atmospheric monastery is known for its beautiful Siamese-style architecture and thousands of tiny Buddha images lining the cloister walls.

Explore the main ordination hall (sim), admire the ancient murals depicting Jataka tales, and feel the peaceful aura of monks chanting nearby.
A must-visit for history lovers and cultural travelers seeking authenticity.

Stop 4

️ Haw Phra Kaew – The Former Home of the Emerald Buddha
Once the royal temple of the Lao monarchy, Haw Phra Kaew was originally built in 1565 to house the sacred Emerald Buddha (now in Bangkok).

Today, it serves as a museum showcasing ancient Lao religious art, stone carvings, and bronze Buddha statues.
Admire the elegant architecture, intricate woodwork, and lush garden that surrounds this spiritual sanctuary — a peaceful contrast to the busy city outside.

Stop 5

Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) – Surreal Spiritual Wonderland
Located 25 km outside Vientiane, Buddha Park is a sculpture garden like no other.
Home to over 200 statues of Buddha, Hindu deities, demons, and mythical creatures, the park blends religion, philosophy, and surrealism into one captivating experience.

Climb into the giant pumpkin-shaped structure symbolizing the underworld, earth, and heaven — and enjoy panoramic views from its rooftop.
Perfect for photo lovers, families, and curious minds.

What's not included

Personal expense

Any services not mentioned in the program

Optional tours

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

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