A Full Day in Laid-Back Vientiane
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A combination tour where we cruise in comfort and in a laid-back way along the capital’s main sites before heading out to the Buddha Park: a somewhat awkward place that doubles now as both a religious park and a place for the local community to relax.
• Visit revered places in one of Asia’s smallest capitals
• Admire the Patuxai Gate modelled after Arc de Triomphe
• Gaze at the statues of the mysterious Buddha Park
• Enjoy a lunch at a local restaurant
• Pick-up and drop off from your hotel is included
Available options
Oct 1, 2025 - Sep 30, 2026
Pickup included
What's included
A full day tour with a professional English-speaking guide.
Lunch at a local restaurant (food only)
All applicable taxes and service charges
Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver.
All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Our guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Vientiane, and we start in the morning for a city tour through the Laotian capital. Our first stop will be at the Wat Sisaket, the oldest monastery in Vientiane. Wat Sisaket has survived in its original form; all other temples in Vientiane have gone through extensive renovations. Inside the main hall, and along the walls of the courtyard surrounding it, a total of 6,840 Buddha images rest in small niches or on shelves, next to its remarkable frescoes.
2
Stop 2
Continue to nearby Ho Phra Keo, the former Royal temple, now a Museum of Buddhist art and sculpture. The building housed the Emerald Buddha until it was taken to Bangkok following a skirmish with the Lao in 1778. It still displays some of the finest Buddha sculptures found in the country.
3
Stop 3
The That Luang with its golden stupa in the characteristic banana flower shape is the most revered shrine in Laos and of course, cannot be missed.
4
Stop 4
This victory gate, also known as Patuxai, was constructed in 1958; its architecture is inspired by the “Arc de Triumph” in Paris and incorporates typical Lao motifs including the Kinnaree, the mythical bird-woman. Energetic visitors can climb the top of the monument and enjoy a panoramic view of Laos’ capital from Vientiane’s highest point (optional).
5
Stop 5
After lunch at a local restaurant, we drive outside of the city to the famous Buddha Park, constructed by a monk in the 1950s. This mysterious place in the outskirts of Vientiane has been designated as one of the main religious sites in the country. The park is filled with Buddhist and mythological animal statues, relate to Buddhism. There were will be plenty of photo moments awaiting you.
6
In the afternoon, before heading back to your hotel, and when time permits, we can make a short stop at the central market of Vientiane, called Talat Sao. Assigned as a ‘morning market’ by many, this name is a bit misleading: the market commonly remains open until late afternoon.
We will return to your hotel in Vientiane at 4 pm after a full day of sightseeing in and around Vientiane.
What's not included
Entrance fee inside the Patuxai Victory Gate
Personal expenses such as drinks, tips and gratuities, shopping, portage fees
Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement.
Hotel pickup and drop-off from hotels and resorts that are located outside of the city center
Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point
Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.8
6 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply
Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Pakse. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside this area such as Ngam Num Lake, Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, and Vientiane International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.
Customers are reminded to submit their passport number and expiration date with their reservation. These are essential requirements as outlined by local immigration regulations
We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of local restaurant.
Guests are advised that some walking is required during this excursion; we always ensure that we take the most comfortable ways from the entrance of the sight to the sight itself.
To respect local customs and respecting the religious sites and temples on this tour, it is customary for guests to take off their shoes before allowed entrance. Your guide will inform you in advance for which of these sites this is applicable.
We always will make efforts to confirm the exact pick-up time upon reservation. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour.
Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop off.
Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this.
Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power.
It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request.
In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
Important notes
- Please contact Asian Trails at least 72 hours before your activity date to confirm your reservation and arrange transportation. Changes within 24 hours may be on request.
- Pick-up times for excursions will be reconfirmed one day prior to commencement of your booked excursion. As an indication, the pick-up time from your accommodation is scheduled 30-60 minutes prior to the confirmed starting time.
- Please be ready and waiting in your hotel lobby 15 minute prior to your scheduled pick up time.
- Upon pickup, please present your confirmation/voucher or photo ID in exchange for your activity.
In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions.
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
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
