Vientiane
Vientiane Prefecture
The capital and largest city of Laos, situated on the Mekong River. It is known for its relaxed atmosphere, a blend of French-colonial architecture, and numerous important Buddhist temples and national monuments, such as Pha That Luang and Patuxai.
Practical Travel Guide for Vientiane
Make your journey smoother with essential practical information to read before traveling.
Visa Information
A visa is required for most nationalities, but many can obtain a visa on arrival or through an e-Visa system for a stay of typically 30 days.
Adapter Type
Lao
Getting Around
The city center is compact, making many sights easily walkable. For longer distances, tuk-tuks, taxis, and rented bicycles are popular modes of transport.
Local Flavors
Lao cuisine is characterized by spicy, sour, and fermented flavors, and Vientiane's food scene is also heavily influenced by French and Thai cooking. The Mekong riverside night market is a great place for street food.