in Laos★ Capital

Vientiane

Laos's sleepy riverside capital, mixing golden stupas and socialist monuments with French bakeries along the Mekong.

Notable spots

Pha That Luang
Landmark
The gilded national stupa and holiest monument in Laos.
Patuxai Victory Monument
Landmark
Vientiane's arch with rooftop views over the boulevards.
Wat Sisaket
Culture
Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)
Culture
Mekong Riverside Night Market
Shopping

Best months: Jan, Feb, Oct, Nov and Dec

👕 Vientiane in Oct: Short sleeves, plus a light layer for air-conditioned interiors; humid, so quick-dry fabrics help.

Photo: Pha That Luang — Coalfruit1012 (CC0) · Wikimedia