【Vientiane, Laos】5 Recommended Relaxing Tourist Spots

Vientiane, the capital of Laos, is often referred to as the "world's most uneventful capital," but it is a place filled with a tranquil atmosphere and local charm. Here are five recommended spots where you can experience the city's culture and history.

① Wat Si Saket
🕰️ Hours: 8:00–12:00, 13:00–16:00
💰 Admission: 30,000 Kip
📍 Access: Within walking distance from the city center
👀 Highlights: The oldest temple in Vientiane, featuring a corridor lined with approximately 10,000 Buddha statues.

② Wat Ho Phra Keo
🕰️ Hours: 8:00–12:00, 13:00–16:00
💰 Admission: 30,000 Kip
📍 Access: Located across from Wat Si Saket
👀 Highlights: Formerly home to the Emerald Buddha, this temple now serves as a museum showcasing Buddhist art.

③ Patuxai
🕰️ Hours: 8:00–17:00
💰 Admission: 30,000 Kip
📍 Access: A 20-minute walk or a 5-minute tuk-tuk ride from the city center
👀 Highlights: Known as the "Victory Gate" of Laos, this monument offers panoramic views of Vientiane from its top. While its appearance is Western-style, the design incorporates Buddhist motifs. The nighttime illumination is also worth seeing.

④ Pha That Luang
🕰️ Hours: 8:00–16:00
💰 Admission: 30,000 Kip
📍 Access: About a 10-minute tuk-tuk ride from Patuxai
👀 Highlights: A golden stupa symbolizing Lao Buddhism. Visiting during sunset is highly recommended as the golden structure glows beautifully in the evening light.

⑤ Buddha Park
🕰️ Hours: 8:00–17:00
💰 Admission: 60,000 Kip
📍 Access: About 45 minutes by Bus No. 14 or 40 minutes by taxi from the city center
👀 Highlights: A unique park featuring various statues of Buddha and Hindu gods. Compact enough to explore entirely within an hour.