Best Things to do in Vientiane | Must-see attractions 2025

Wat Si Saket

7:00 AM–5:30 PM

Church

cnr Rue Lan Xang & Rue Setthathirath

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Wat Si Saket is the oldest temple in Vientiane, Laos, featuring a museum and a cloister wall housing over 6,840 Buddha images from various materials.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for temple upkeep.

Nam Phou Fountain

Open 24 hours

Fountain

Rue Pangkham Namphou Fountain and Square

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Nam Phou Fountain in Vientiane, Laos, is a vibrant gathering spot surrounded by bars and restaurants, making it a hub for nightlife and social activities.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

COPE Visitor Centre

09:00-18:00

Museum

Boulevard Khouvieng National Rehabilitation Centre

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COPE Visitor Centre in Vientiane, Laos, educates visitors on the history of bombings and disabilities with multimedia exhibits and powerful documentaries.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Mekong Riverside Park

Open 24 hours

Park

By the Mekong River

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Mekong Riverside Park in Vientiane, Laos features a scenic promenade along the Mekong River, popular for leisure, exercise, and local cultural events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Special events may require a ticket.

Wat Mixai

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rue Setthathilath ban mixay

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Wat Mixai in Vientiane, Laos is a Buddhist temple known for its unique architecture, including a Bangkok-style sǐm and imposing guardian giants.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for temple maintenance.

Wat Ong Teu

7:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rue Setthathilath

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Wat Ong Teu is a 16th-century Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, renowned for its bronze statues and vibrant iconography that reflects the region's rich religious heritage.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Icat Gallery

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

230-231 Settathirath Road Ban Simeuang

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Icat Gallery in Vientiane, Laos, showcases contemporary art with a focus on local and regional artists, providing a space for exhibitions and cultural exchange.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events might have a ticket fee.

Wat Haysok

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

Rue Setthathilath

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Wat Haysok, located in Vientiane, Laos, is a significant Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and cultural heritage.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for all visitors.

Chao Anouvong Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Sithane Rd

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Chao Anouvong Park in Vientiane, Laos, features a riverside promenade, picnic areas, and a vibrant nightly market with souvenir vendors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may charge a fee.

Lao People's Army Museum

Mo-Fr 08:30-11:30, 13:30-16:00

Museum

Kaisone Phomvihane Road

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Lao People's Army Museum in Vientiane showcases Laotian military history through various exhibits and artifacts, highlighting significant contributions to the country's defense.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry for all visitors.

Wat Inpeng

Open 24 hours

Church

Setthathirath Road

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Wat Inpeng is a lesser-visited Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, known for its detailed stucco reliefs and serene atmosphere.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

Lao Textile Museum

Mo-Su 09:00-16:00

Museum

Ban Nongtha Tai

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Lao Textile Museum in Vientiane showcases handwoven fabrics, rich textile traditions, and weaving demonstrations, highlighting Laos's cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Certain workshops (US$20 to US$30) require tickets.

Lao-ITEC Exhibition Centre

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Business Center

Boulevard kamphengmeuang

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Lao-ITEC Exhibition Centre in Vientiane, Laos, hosts various conventions, exhibitions, and events in a modern facility designed to foster business connections and cultural exchanges.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Varies by event. Most exhibitions require a paid ticket; pricing details are event-specific.

Royal Thai Embassy

8:30 AM–4:30 PM

Public Building

ROYAL THAI EMBASSY VIENTIANE

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The Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane serves as the diplomatic mission of Thailand in Laos, offering visa services and cultural exchange programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require advance registration.

National Convention Centre

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Laos

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The National Convention Centre in Vientiane, Laos, offers a modern venue for conferences, exhibitions, and events, showcasing Laotian culture and architecture.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Patuxai Monument

8:00 AM–9:00 PM

Monument

Ave Lane Xang

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Patuxai Monument in Vientiane, Laos, is a war memorial constructed between 1957 and 1968, featuring Lao-style architecture and honoring independence fighters.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free access. No entry fee required.

Wat That Foon

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Church

ປະເທດລາວ Laos

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Wat That Foon is a Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, known for its serene atmosphere and traditional Lao architecture, serving as a spiritual site for both locals and visitors.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for temple maintenance.

Laos National Museum

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

328 13

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Laos National Museum in Vientiane showcases the rich history and culture of Laos, featuring extensive exhibits and artifacts reflecting the nation's heritage.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Church of Sacred Heart

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Rue De La Mission

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Church of Sacred Heart, also known as Vientiane Cathedral, serves as the spiritual home of Catholicism in Laos, established in 1928 during French colonial rule.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community support.

Lao international Trade Exhibition and Convention Center

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Mall

Boulevard kamphengmeuang

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Lao International Trade Exhibition and Convention Center in Vientiane hosts trade shows, conferences, and cultural events, featuring modern facilities and extensive space.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free entry, some special events may require tickets.

Lao Zoo

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

Laos

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Lao Zoo in Vientiane hosts various animal species native to Southeast Asia and serves as an educational center for wildlife conservation.

Duration: Approximately 2 to 3 hours.

30,000 LAK for adults, 15,000 LAK for children. Discounts for students with ID.

Jamia Masjid Vientiane

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mosque

Vientiane

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Jamia Masjid Vientiane is a mosque in Laos's capital, known for its unique architecture and cultural significance within the local Islamic community.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance and community activities.

Comcenter College

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

College

Laos

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Comcenter College in Vientiane, Laos, focuses on technology and business education, fostering innovation and preparing students for future challenges.

Duration: At least 1 hour for a campus tour.

Free for campus visits. Courses and specific programs may have fees.

Chua Bang Long

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

Vientiane

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Chua Bang Long is a historic Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, showcasing traditional Lao architecture and rich cultural heritage, drawing visitors for its serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Masjid Azahar

Open 24 hours

Mosque

Vientiane

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Masjid Azahar in Vientiane, Laos, serves as a central gathering place for the local Muslim community, showcasing simple yet elegant Islamic architecture.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations for maintenance are appreciated, but not mandatory.

Wat Khounta

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Temple

Laos

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Wat Khounta is a serene Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, known for its intricate murals, peaceful setting, and cultural significance in the local Thai-Lao community.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated for temple maintenance.

ASEAN Mall

9:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

KhamPang Mueng Road

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ASEAN Mall in Vientiane, Laos, features a variety of shopping options, dining establishments, and entertainment, serving as a hub for both locals and tourists.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Free. Some events may require paid tickets.

Talat Sao

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mall

Boulevard Khouvieng

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Talat Sao, a shopping area in Vientiane, features a mix of traditional Lao fabrics among modern shopping. Explore local culture amidst evolving commercial landscapes.

Duration: About 1-2 hours.

Free. Some items may have a price associated.

Km8 Market

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

Vientiane

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Km8 Market in Vientiane, Laos, features a vibrant collection of local foods, clothing, and crafts, attracting both locals and visitors for a genuine shopping experience.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. No entry fee required.

Home Idea

9:00 AM–6:00 PM

Mall

Laos

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Home Idea in Vientiane offers innovative home design and decor solutions, showcasing local craftsmanship, sustainable materials, and modern aesthetics, appealing to homeowners and designers alike.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Some special events and workshops may require registration or a fee.

THATLUANG Temple

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Museum

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THATLUANG Temple, a significant Buddhist monument in Vientiane, Laos, is a revered site featuring a golden stupa and intricate architecture, attracting tourists and pilgrims alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations for temple maintenance are welcomed.

Lao National Television

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Public Building

Laos

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Lao National Television, in Vientiane, is Laos' primary broadcaster, showcasing news, culture, and entertainment since 1975. Visit to learn about Laos' media evolution.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free, with some programs available upon request for viewing.

Pan Sportswear

9:00 AM–7:00 PM

Event hall

Laos

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Pan Sportswear in Vientiane, Laos offers a range of high-quality sports apparel and accessories for both locals and tourists seeking active lifestyles.

Duration: About 1 hour.

Free to browse. Prices vary for products purchased.

Lao Nakham Evangelical Church

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

Laos

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Lao Nakham Evangelical Church in Vientiane, Laos, offers a space for worship and community, supporting the local Christian population with services and events.

Duration: Up to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated but not required.

ວັດໂພນທັນເຫນືອ Phonthan Neua Temple

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Event hall

Laos

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Phonthan Neua Temple, situated in Vientiane, Laos, is a revered Buddhist site known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Department Of Education

8:00 AM–4:30 PM

Public Building

Laos

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The Department of Education in Vientiane focuses on fostering educational development, including policies and administrative functions vital for Laos's education system.

Duration: About 1–2 hours.

Free. Special seminars or workshops may have associated fees.

Wat Ban Nongsangthor

6:00 AM–6:00 PM

Event hall

Nongsangthor Village

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Wat Ban Nongsangthor is a serene Buddhist temple in Vientiane, Laos, known for its traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings, perfect for reflection and cultural insight.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome to support temple maintenance.

wat parkthang

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Palace

Laos

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Wat Parkthang in Vientiane, Laos, is a revered Buddhist temple known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere, hosting cultural ceremonies and community gatherings.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are welcome for temple maintenance.