Laos, privately

• Visit the Royal Palace Museum: This museum was once the residence of the Lao royal family and now houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the history and culture of Laos.
• Explore the Night Market: The Night Market in Luang Prabang is a popular destination for shopping and street food. You can browse local handicrafts, try traditional Lao snacks and dishes, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
• Climb Mount Phousi: Mount Phousi is a small hill in the center of Luang Prabang that offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. It’s a popular spot for watching the sunset or sunrise.
• Take a boat ride on the Mekong River: The Mekong River is a major waterway that flows through Laos, and a boat ride is a great way to explore the surrounding countryside and visit nearby villages.
• Visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls: The Kuang Si Waterfalls are a series of cascading falls and pools that are located about 30 kilometers from Luang Prabang. It’s a popular spot for swimming, picnicking, and hiking.
• Learn about Lao culture at the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre: The Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre is a museum that showcases the cultural diversity of Laos, with exhibits on traditional clothing, handicrafts, and customs.

Take a cooking class: Lao cuisine is known for its fresh, spicy flavors and unique ingredients. Taking a cooking class is a great way to learn about Lao culture and cuisine while also enjoying some delicious food.

• Laap: Laap is a traditional Lao dish made with minced meat (usually chicken, pork, or beef), herbs, spices, and lime juice. It’s often served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
• Tam Mak Hoong: Tam Mak Hoong is a spicy papaya salad that’s popular in Laos and Thailand. It’s made with shredded green papaya, chili peppers, lime juice, fish sauce, and other seasonings.
• Mok Pa: Mok Pa is a traditional Lao dish made with fish that’s been marinated in herbs and spices, then wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. It’s served with sticky rice and fresh vegetables.
• Or Lam: Or Lam is a spicy stew made with meat (usually beef or pork), vegetables, and herbs. It’s typically served with sticky rice and is a popular dish during the cooler months.
• Sai Oua: Sai Oua is a Lao sausage made with ground pork, lemongrass, chili peppers, and other seasonings. It’s often grilled and served as a snack or appetizer.

Khao Poon: Khao Poon is a spicy noodle soup that’s popular in Laos and northern Thailand. It’s made with rice noodles, coconut milk, curry paste, and a variety of meats and vegetables.

• Apsara Rive Droite: This boutique hotel is located on the banks of the Nam Khan River and features stylish, modern rooms and suites. The hotel also offers a pool, spa, and restaurant.
• Belmond La Résidence Phou Vao: This luxury hotel is located on a hill overlooking Luang Prabang and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The rooms and suites are spacious and elegantly appointed, and the hotel also offers a spa, pool, and restaurant.
• Sofitel Luang Prabang: This hotel is located in a restored French colonial mansion and features a mix of traditional Lao and French design elements. The rooms and suites are spacious and luxurious, and the hotel also offers a pool, spa, and restaurant.
• Villa Maly: This boutique hotel is located in a restored colonial mansion and features stylish, comfortable rooms and suites. The hotel also offers a pool, spa, and restaurant.
• Kiridara Luang Prabang: This hotel is located on a hill overlooking Luang Prabang and offers stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside. The rooms and suites are spacious and luxurious, and the hotel also offers a pool, spa, and restaurant.

• Tamarind: This restaurant is known for its traditional Lao cuisine and offers a variety of dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. The restaurant also offers cooking classes and food tours.
• Manda de Laos: This restaurant is located in a beautiful colonial-style building and offers a mix of Lao and French cuisine. The restaurant also features a bar and lounge area.
• Utopia: This restaurant and bar is a popular spot for travelers and locals alike. The menu features a mix of Lao and international dishes, and the restaurant also offers a range of drinks and cocktails.
• Coconut Garden: This restaurant is located in a beautiful garden setting and offers a mix of Lao and Thai cuisine. The restaurant also features a bar and lounge area.
• Dyen Sabai: This restaurant is located on the banks of the Nam Khan River and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The menu features a variety of Lao and international dishes, and the restaurant also offers live music and dancing.
• Saffron Coffee: This cafe serves up delicious coffee and light meals made with fresh, local ingredients. The cafe also offers tours of their coffee farm and roasting facilities.
• L’Elephant: This restaurant is housed in a restored French colonial building and offers a mix of Lao and French cuisine. The restaurant also features a bar and lounge area.

• Visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan)

Buddha Park, also known as Xieng Khuan, is a popular attraction located on the outskirts of Vientiane. The park is home to a collection of over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, as well as several sculptures and structures representing the universe, including a giant pumpkin and a three-headed elephant. Buddha Park is a unique and fascinating attraction in Vientiane that allows tourists to learn about Buddhism and Hinduism. 

Location: Deua, Thanon Tha, Vientiane, Laos

• Explore Patuxai Victory Gate

Patuxai Victory Gate, also known as the “Arc de Triomphe of Vientiane,” is a prominent monument in the city’s heart. The structure was built in the 1960s to commemorate Laos’ independence from France and is dedicated to the country’s fallen soldiers. This place is a must-see attraction in Vientiane that offers you a glimpse into Laos’ history and culture and stunning views of the city and the surrounding countryside. 

Location: Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane, Laos

• Massage in Vientiane 

Massage is a popular activity in Vientiane, with a variety of massage parlors and spas offering a range of traditional Lao and Thai massage treatments. These massages are known for their therapeutic and relaxing benefits and can be a great way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing or business. Many spas in Vientiane also offer modern wellness services such as facials, body scrubs, and hydrotherapy treatments.  

Location: Utopia Massage Vientiane – Quai Fa Ngum, Vientiane, Laos 

• Meditation at Wat Sok Pa Luang 

Wat Sok Pa Luang is a Buddhist temple on the outskirts of Vientiane known for its meditation retreats. The temple offers a peaceful and serene environment that is perfect for you if you want to relax, reflect, and engage in spiritual practices. The meditation retreats at Wat Sok Pa Luang typically last several days, including guided meditation sessions, Dharma talks, and other Buddhist practices. 

Location: Lane 7, Vientiane, Laos 

• Play at Chao Anouvong Tennis Club 

Chao Anouvong Tennis Club is a popular destination for tennis enthusiasts visiting Vientiane. Located near the Mekong River, the club offers a range of tennis facilities, including both indoor and outdoor courts. The club also hosts regular tournaments and events for players of all skill levels, providing opportunities for visitors to test their skills against other players and make new connections in the local tennis community.  Location: Lao National Stadium, Vientiane, Laos 

• Visit The Presidential Palace of Vientiane 

The Presidential Palace of Vientiane, also known as the “Palais Presidentiel,” is a grand French colonial-style building in the heart of the capital city of Laos. It was originally built in 1973 to serve as the official residence of the President of Laos. However, today it is used primarily for state receptions and ceremonies. Now, the palace is closed for tours or visits to the public. However, visitors can still admire the building from the outside and take photographs. 

Location: the intersection of the Ave Lane Xang and Settathirath Road, Vientiane, Laos

• Eat at Vientiane Night Market 

The night market is one of the essential things to do in Vientiane because it offers a wide variety of local foods, including grilled meats, sticky rice, noodle dishes, and fresh fruit smoothies. Some of the most popular dishes include “larb,” a spicy minced meat salad, and “khao jee,” a type of baguette sandwich filled with meat and vegetables. You will experience all the cultural cuisine of Vientiane when you go to the Vientiane Night Market

• Learn history at the Lao National Museum 

The Lao National Museum exhibits cover the country’s history from prehistoric times to modern times. Visitors can see a range of artifacts, including ancient pottery, Buddhist sculptures, and traditional textiles. Some exhibits focus on the country’s struggle for independence and its more recent political and economic developments.

• Tom Yum Soup  

Tom Yum or Tom Yam is a spicy and sour soup that is considered the national dish of Thailand. It has a spicy and tangy soup made with a fragrant combination of lemongrass, lime, galangal, chili, and lime juice. It can be enjoyed with noodle and shrimp, chicken, or a vegetarian version. 

Recommended address: Makphet Restaurant – Sethathirat Road, Vientiane, Laos

• Tom Yum Chicken 

Tom Yum Chicken, also known as Tom Yum Gai, is a popular Thai dish that combines the vibrant flavors of Tom Yum soup with tender chicken. It is a delightful and aromatic Thai cuisine option. 

Recommended address: Ban Gai Tex Mex Cantina – Night Street, Mekong River, Vientiane, Laos 

• Pad Thai 

Although originating from Thailand, Pad Thai has gained popularity worldwide, including Vientiane. This stir-fried noodle dish with eggs, tofu, bean sprouts, and peanuts can sometimes be found in Thai restaurants. Pad Thai can be customized according to personal preference, with the option to add shrimp, chicken, or other proteins, as well as additional vegetables or spices.

Recommended address: Khop Chai Deu Restaurant – 54 Setthathirat Road, Vientiane, Laos 

• Green Curry 

Green Curry is a popular Thai curry made with green chili paste, coconut milk, and various vegetables. Green Curry is typically served with steamed jasmine rice, allowing the fragrant and flavorful curry to be enjoyed alongside the fluffy rice. It might be available in Thai eateries in Vientiane. 

Recommended address: Amphone Restaurant – Ban Naxay 316, Vientiane, Laos 

• Red Curry 

Red Curry, also known as “Gaeng Phed” in Thai, is a popular Thai dish that is loved for its combination of aromatic spices, creamy coconut milk, and a delightful kick of spiciness. Red Curry can be made with various proteins such as chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, or tofu and often includes vegetables like bamboo shoots, bell peppers, and Thai basil. 

Recommended address: Pintoh Restaurant – Rue Hengboun, Vientiane, Laos 

• Massaman Curry 

Massaman Curry is a Thai curry dish that is known for its rich and aromatic flavors. It has a unique blend of Thai and Indian influences, resulting in a fragrant and slightly sweet curry. Massaman Curry is typically served with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles, allowing you to soak up the flavorful curry sauce.

• Khao Soi 

Khao Soi is a popular Northern Thai dish that has gained popularity not only in Thailand but also in other parts of the world. Khao Soi is a delightful combination of creamy, spicy, and tangy flavors, with the noodles providing a satisfying texture. It is often served with a side of fresh vegetables or pickles to complement the richness of the curry.

Recommended address: Khao Soi Luang Prabang – 153 Sokpaluang Road, Vientiane, Laos

• Crowne Plaza Vientiane, an IHG Hotel 

Crowne Plaza Vientiane is one of the most luxurious hotels located in Vientiane, the lively capital of Laos. The 198 modern, well-appointed rooms and suites at Crowne Plaza Vientiane satisfy visitors who expect the best experiences during their stay. These accommodations artfully blend traditional Lao characteristics with modern-day amenities. Coming to Crowne Plaza Vientiane to explore a new level of service excellence!

• Salana Boutique Hotel

With 12 superior, 24 deluxe, 2 suites, and 3 Salana suites, Salana Boutique Hotel provides top-notch lodging in the center of the city and is sure to please even the most discerning guest. The Salana Boutique Hotel’s Lao contemporary design is made from real wood, which fosters a real feeling of luxury and comfort. 

• Chanthapanya Hotel

The Chanthapanya Hotel is tucked away in the center of Vientiane. The hotel is ideally situated just a short stroll from the city’s many tourist sites, markets, dining options, etc. There are 76 rooms for your choice to stay, all of which are elegantly and opulently decorated with traditional-styled timber furnishings. It is wonderful to sink into incredibly soft beds and awaken refreshed and reenergized on your next day in Vientiane.

• Lao Orchid Hotel

With a variety of useful services to make your stay more enjoyable, the Lao Orchid Hotel is a great option for tourists visiting Vientiane. Get the most out of your urban getaway by waking up in the center of Vientiane and spending a peaceful night at the Lao Orchid Hotel. From this hotel, you can easily discover amazing sites. Visitors can check out Ho Pra Keo and Wat Ho Phakeo, two of Vientiane’s main destinations while staying at the Lao Orchid Hotel (0.6 mi).

• Lao Poet Hotel

The Lao Poet Hotel was created to provide exceptional elegance and comfort while fusing contemporary elements with Indochina-era features. This hotel is probably the newest hot area to stay when visiting Vientiane. It has 55 rooms and suites as well as a sizable rooftop pool with views of the Mekong and the city. Here you can escape from the busy world and enjoy the fresh atmosphere.

• Lao Plaza Hotel

Lao Plaza Hotel, the first recognized 5-star hotel in the nation, has given Laos its first experience with top-notch lodging abroad since 1997. The hotel offers 142 beautiful rooms and suites with views of the surrounding area. The Lao culture, with a perfect mixture of modern European and Oriental elements, has a great influence on the hotel’s decoration.

Green Park Boutique Hotel

The Green Park Boutique Hotel places visitors in the center of Vientiane with the perfect location in the central business and embassy district. This classic-style hotel includes 34 rooms, each with an exquisite interior and some with views of the garden. The most exquisite contemporary Laos architecture is used in the Green Park Boutique Hotel to capture a Lao-style orientation. Green Park Boutique Hotel’s design blends the elegance of the old and modern interiors with spectacular settings.

10 places to experience lifenight in Vientiane

• Vientiane Night Market 

The Vientiane Night Market is a popular tourist destination in the city of Vientiane. The night market offers a wide range of products for visitors to browse and purchase, including handicrafts, clothing, jewelry, souvenirs, and local street food. The market is known for its lively atmosphere and a variety of attractive and extremely cheap dishes, spoiled for visitors to eat comfortably at night. 

• Bor Pen Nyang Bar And Restaurant

Bor Pen Nyang is a 4-storey bar and restaurant on the Mekong River and central Vientiane. This place is great for catching the sunset, but you have to come early because the table runs out very quickly on the balcony side. Besides, the specialties here are BBQ, larb (minced meat salad), spicy seafood soup, and the special Swiss cheeseburger. At night, Bor Pen Nyang is very busy, with the music of popular Western music and 2 pool tables that are constantly full. Draft Beer Lao is served in pints, pitchers, and beer towers. 

• Samlo Pub

Samlo Pub features a large outdoor seating area as well as a cozy indoor space, both of which are decorated with colorful lights and traditional Lao artwork. Old-fashioned and a bit dusty, Samlo Pub attracts a lot of tourists. The menu offers a range of international and local dishes, including burgers, pizza, and Lao-style grilled meats, at affordable prices. The pub is a great place to unwind and enjoy a night out in Vientiane, offering a friendly and lively atmosphere and live music entertainment.  

• Lao Bowling Centre 

The Lao Bowling Centre features 16 lanes and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment and scoring systems. It is open to bowlers of all skill levels and is a popular destination for families, friends, and corporate events. In addition, the Lao Bowling Centre is known for its fun and lively atmosphere, with music playing throughout the venue. So if you want to relax at night, just go to the Lao Bowling; it is open daily late at night. 

• Major Platinum Cineplex Vientiane Center

Major Platinum Cineplex Vientiane Center is known for its high-quality viewing experience and is a popular destination for moviegoers in Vientiane. It also offers special deals and promotions for students and members, making it an affordable option for a night out. Also, is a modern cinema complex located in the Vientiane Center shopping mall in Vientiane, so you can shop after watching movies easily.

• Kong View Restaurant & Bar 

Kong View Restaurant has a beautiful, romantic space to eat while watching the sunset. The restaurant serves a variety of traditional dishes from Laos, Thailand to European dishes. Wooden tables and chairs and warm lighting bring a pleasant feeling to visitors. In addition, the restaurant features live music performances and cultural shows, adding to the overall dining. 

• Moonlight Lounge

Moonlight Lounge is a popular rooftop bar located in the heart of Vientiane. The atmosphere at Moonlight Lounge is relaxed and sophisticated, with comfortable seating and a stylish interior design. The bar serves a range of cocktails, wine, beer, and a selection of small plates and snacks. In the evening, you will see the lounge playing jazzy house and ambient beats while vibrant parties with hip-hop, dance, and trap music take place until the next morning.  

• Vangthong Evening Food Market

Vangthong Evening Food Market is a popular night market that offers various food stalls selling traditional Lao and Southeast Asian cuisine. As you pass by each stall, you’ll see vendors cooking up Lao cuisines such as Bla kan sung (grilled fish), Sai oua (Laotian sausage), and Bet yang (roasted duck). The atmosphere at Vangthong Evening Food Market is bustling and vibrant, with colorful stalls and friendly vendors. 

• CCC Bar & Club Vientiane

CCC Bar & Club is known for its lively atmosphere, music, and dance floor, making it a popular spot for party-goers and club enthusiasts. The interior of CCC Bar & Club is modern and stylish, with comfortable seating and a spacious dance floor. The club is popular among both locals and tourists and can get crowded, especially on weekends.

• Hard Rock Cafe Vientiane

Hard Rock Cafe Vientiane’s interior is decorated with a collection of music memorabilia, including guitars, costumes, and autographed photographs. The menu features a mix of international and Lao cuisine, with burgers, sandwiches, and salads being some of the most popular dishes. The bar offers a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, including cocktails, beer, and soft drinks. This place also hosts live music performances and events, making it a popular destination for music enthusiasts.