Vientiane travel guide
Vientiane Tourism | Vientiane Guide
You're Going to Love Vientiane
With 196,731 inhabitants, Vientiane is the most populous city in Laos. It is the most popular tourist destination in the country. We recommend you stay at least 3 days in order to fully appreciate everything Vientiane has to offer.
When to visit Vientiane
Looking for warm weather? Then head to Vientiane in April, when the average temperature is 84.2 °F, and the highest can go up to 91.4 °F. The coldest month, on the other hand, is January, when it can get as cold as 62.6 °F, with an average temperature of 71.6 °F. You’re likely to see more rain in July, when precipitation is around 4.7″. In contrast, January is usually the driest month of the year in Vientiane, with an average rainfall of 0.4″.
How to Get to Vientiane
Plane
When flying to Vientiane, you’ll arrive at Vientiane Wattay (VTE), which is located 5 km from the city center. The shortest flight to Vientiane from the United States departs from San Francisco and takes around 20h 20m.
Train
The train station in Vientiane is called Vientiane Thanaleng Station, and is located 14 km from the city center.
Car
Another option to get to Vientiane is to pick up a car rental from Luang Prabang, which is about 219 km from Vientiane. You’ll find branches of Sixt and Avis, among others, in Luang Prabang.
Bus
The most popular bus station is Vientiane Keo Black Noodle Restaurant, located 1.2 km from downtown Vientiane. Vientiane Vientiane South Bus Station is also a commonly used station, and is 9 km from the city center.
Airports near Vientiane
Airlines serving Vientiane
Where to stay in Vientiane
From 5-star hotels such as the Muong Thanh Luxury Vientiane Hotel to great affordable options like the City Inn Vientiane, Vientiane offers a range of accommodations for every taste. Average rates range from around $32 per night for a double room in a 3-star hotel to $95 and up for a 5-star experience. If you’re on a budget, well-reviewed accommodations include Vientiane Star Hotel and Souvanna Hotel.
Where to stay in popular areas of Vientiane
Most booked hotels in Vientiane
Renting a car in Vientiane
Renting a car in Vientiane costs $51 per day, on average, or $152 if you want to rent if for 3 days.
You’re likely to save money by renting your car at the airport: locations in the city are, on average, 4% more expensive than at Vientiane Wattay.
Expect to pay $5.64 per gallon in Vientiane (average price from the past 30 days). Depending on the size of your rental car, filling up the tank will cost between $67.68 and $90.24. The most frequently booked car type in Vientiane is Full-size (Toyota Hilux or similar). If you’re looking to save money, though, keep in mind that Economy rental cars (Class Economy Car or similar) are, on average, 42% cheaper than other rental car types in the city.