The city may seem slow and sleepy, but in the twenty odd years since Laos reopened its doors to foreign visitors, the capital has evolved a lot. Today there are plenty of hotels, bars and restaurants along the pretty streets, but the commercialisation hasn’t diminished the charm of the tree-lined dirt roads, tranquil temples and ever-friendly locals.

More about Vientiane

One of the best ways to navigate this little city is via bicycle; rent one early morning when the air is still cool and cycle up to the glimmering Pha That Luang – the iconic Buddhist monument that pierces the sky with its golden stupa. There are plenty of other cultural landmarks to visit, including Patuxai, Laos’ version of the Arc du Triomphe. Ironically, the doppelganger was dedicated to those who fought to liberate the country from the French in 1949.

South of the town you’ll find the curious Buddha Park – an expansive collection of concrete sculptures set within a wide riverside meadow. A gargantuan reclining Buddha rules the park, alongside images of various Hindu and Buddhist deity, and some unusual and sometimes disturbing creations. The park’s maze of staircases and passageways makes it a strange little place to explore, and the area provides an alternative location to sit and enjoy a picnic. 

Vientiane’s riverside location makes for some unforgettable sunsets, so make the most of the view by taking a seat in one of the many beer gardens that overhang the riverbank. Take your time over a long, ice cold glass of Beer Lao – the wildly popular national brew.

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