Vientiane
Southeast Asia, Laos
5.0
Overview
Southeast Asia's most laid-back capital city sits on the banks of the Mekong River, directly across from Thailand. With no skyscrapers, minimal traffic compared to other capitals, and a blend of French colonial and Buddhist architecture, Vientiane feels more like a large town. Most backpackers pass through for a day or two en route to [[Vang-Vieng]] or [[Luang-Prabang]].
Daily Budget
~$30
Best Months
NovDecJanFebMar
Hostels
3 hostels with reviews and vibe scores
Things to Do
7 activities and experiences
Getting Here
Transport routes, prices, and tips
Top Hostels
View all 3 hostels
Things to Do
View all 7 activitiesCross the Mekong to Thailand for a day trip to Nong Khai
tours
Explore Pha That Luang, the golden stupa and national symbol of Laos
culture
Visit Buddha Park
tours
Visit COPE Visitor Centre to learn about UXO/landmine legacy in Laos
classes
Visit Patuxai, Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe equivalent
nature
Frequently Asked Questions
- How much does it cost to backpack in Vientiane?
- Budget around $30 USD per day in Vientiane, covering a hostel dorm, meals, local transport, and a few activities.
- When is the best time to visit Vientiane?
- The best months for backpackers to visit Vientiane are Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, when the weather is most favourable and conditions are ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- What are the best hostels in Vientiane?
- Top-rated hostels in Vientiane include **Dream Home Hostel 2**, **Barn1920s Hostel**, **Funky Monkey Hostel**. Prices for a dorm bed typically start from $20 USD per night.
- What are the top things to do in Vientiane?
- Must-do activities in Vientiane include Cross the Mekong to Thailand for a day trip to Nong Khai, Explore Pha That Luang, the golden stupa and national symbol of Laos, Visit Buddha Park. There are 7 activities and experiences listed for backpackers.