Hotels in Vientiane

Vientiane: Capital on the Mekong

Vientiane sits on a wide bend of the Mekong River, directly across from Nong Khai, Thailand, making it one of Southeast Asia's most accessible capitals. Founded as a Lao kingdom seat in the 16th century, the city blends French colonial-era boulevards with gilded Buddhist temples. The Pha That Luang stupa — built in 1566 and standing 45 metres tall — remains the national symbol. The Patuxai monument, modelled loosely on the Arc de Triomphe and completed in 1968, anchors the central Lan Xang Avenue.

Where to Stay in Vientiane

Most hotels cluster around Nam Phu Fountain Square in the riverside old quarter, and along Samsenthai Road to the east. Budget guesthouses fill the lanes between Setthathirat Road and the Mekong promenade. Mid-range and boutique properties favour the colonial district near Wat Si Saket, Laos's oldest surviving temple (1818). The airport sits 3 km west of the city centre.

Practical Tips

• Currency: Lao kip (LAK); Thai baht and US dollars are widely accepted near the river.
• Border crossing: The Friendship Bridge connects to Nong Khai; buses run from the central bus terminal.
• Timing: November to February brings dry, cooler weather — the most comfortable window for walking the riverfront.