Hotels in Vientiane

Vientiane: A Timeless Tapestry of Temples, Monuments and the Meandering Mekong

Vientiane, the charming capital of Laos, enchants visitors with its serene temples, majestic monuments, and captivating riverside vistas. Nestled along the Mekong, the city offers a unique blend of traditional Lao culture and colonial elegance. Wander through its vibrant streets to discover hidden gems like ancient stupas and lively markets, all while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Ideal for cultural enthusiasts and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path retreat, Vientiane promises a memorable journey into the heart of Laos.

Discover great hotels near Vientiane

Vientiane offers a range of hotels from cosy guesthouses to luxury star-rated stays. Visitors can enjoy comfortable rooms in Vientiane with modern amenities and warm service, making it a pleasant base to explore the city’s laid-back charm. Here are some of the best hotels near Vientiane that our travelers love:

1. Phounsiri HotelOpens in a new window: This 3.0-star hotel offers a charming and comfortable retreat for leisure travellers. Guests can relish a delightful start with a free daily breakfast and enjoy a variety of dining options, ensuring a relaxed and satisfying journey. The hotel features an array of entertainment options including modern television services, providing a perfect setting for a leisurely evening. The overall experience is marked by comfortable amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, promising a smooth and enjoyable stay for those seeking a laid-back, yet quality experience.
2. Don Chan PalaceOpens in a new window: This 5.0-star hotel is an epitome of luxury, offering a distinctive spa-themed vacation for leisure travellers. The property boasts an extensive full-service spa and inviting pool area equipped with sun loungers and advanced massage services, delivering an experience that is both indulgent and rejuvenating. Guests can expect an express check-in and curated experiences that highlight high-end dining and architectural elegance. The hotel exudes sophistication and comfort, ensuring a memorable and top-tier journey.
3. Landmark Mekong Riverside HotelOpens in a new window: This 5.0-star hotel stands out with its exceptional guest rating that reflects a commitment to luxury and refined comfort. It offers a delightful experience for leisure travellers with high-end amenities including refined dining options and stylish architectural design. The property is celebrated for its welcoming atmosphere and meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a smooth and memorable stay. With features that include express check-in and curated experiences, this hotel guarantees a luxurious and distinctive escape.

Where to stay in Vientiane

In Vientiane, Ban Nongdouang, Ban Sikhai, and Ban Kaoliao offer unique appeals. Ban Nongdouang is known for its vibrant local markets and accessibility to key attractions. Ban Sikhai boasts serene surroundings and traditional architecture, while Ban Kaoliao provides a blend of cultural experiences. For first-time visitors, Ban Nongdouang is the best choice due to its central location and lively atmosphere.

1. Ban NongdouangOpens in a new window: Ban Nongdouang stands out for its unique blend of local charm and easy access to traditional markets and cultural attractions. This area is perfect for travellers who enjoy authentic experiences, with must-see sites like local temples and scenic village walks. Its cosy accommodations offer a warm, inviting atmosphere that lets you immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. With a mix of cultural attractions and relaxed shopping opportunities, Ban Nongdouang is an ideal choice for those seeking a genuine Laotian retreat.
2. Ban SikhaiOpens in a new window: Ban Sikhai offers a relaxed environment with a range of local experiences, including traditional craft markets and cultural venues. The area is popular for its artistic vibe and easy-going lifestyle, where you can enjoy leisurely strolls and visit charming local spots. Ban Sikhai’s accommodations focus on comfort and simplicity, making it a great spot to unwind and appreciate the region’s heritage. The local scene is enriched by laid-back shopping opportunities and cultural attractions, providing a well-rounded experience for visitors.
3. Ban KaoliaoOpens in a new window: Ban Kaoliao provides a quiet, intimate setting that’s ideal for travellers seeking a more secluded experience. The area boasts a small selection of local attractions that celebrate Laotian traditions, including community markets and cultural events. Its accommodations offer a cosy retreat with a friendly, neighbourhood feel. Ban Kaoliao is perfect for those who appreciate a slower pace and the simplicity of village life, with a few charming spots to explore that highlight the local way of living.

Things to do in Vientiane

Vientiane charms with its serene rivers, lush parks and ancient monuments. Stroll along winding pathways, enjoy leisurely boating or opt for a rockclimbing challenge. The blend of temple vistas and natural landscapes invites exploration and relaxation in equal measure.

• Mekong Riverside ParkOpens in a new window – Explore the urban charm of Mekong Riverside Park where you can stroll along the riverbanks, admire nearby temples and monuments, and enjoy the lively ambience of this central hub in Vientiane.
• Lao National MuseumOpens in a new window – Delve into Laos’ rich past at the Lao National Museum, a historyMuseum that offers insight into the region’s heritage through intriguing artefacts and exhibitions, all set against a backdrop of temples, monuments, and the flowing river.
• Chao Fa Ngum StatueOpens in a new window – Visit the Chao Fa Ngum Statue, a striking monument that stands as a testament to local history and tradition, surrounded by the scenic vistas of temples and the river’s edge.
• Lao National History MuseumOpens in a new window – Step into the Lao National History Museum to uncover the layers of Vientiane’s past with exhibits that highlight the evolution of local civilisation, with temples, monuments, and the river providing a timeless context.
• Xieng KhuanOpens in a new window – Wander through Xieng Khuan, a sculptureGarden where art meets nature, offering a unique perspective on local craftsmanship alongside views of ancient temples and the river.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Vientiane

1. Book for the cheapest times: Vientiane is most affordable on a budget during May, August and September, when hotel prices may drop to lower prices. For a well-rounded exploration of the city's rich history and cultural landmarks — including temples, business districts, cafes, monuments, river sightseeing and tours — a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. This budget-friendly visit offers great value for money as you uncover the city's cultural treasures.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Vientiane, begin by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates as your travel date approaches. To enhance your chances of securing savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, keeping you in the loop about flash sales and special promotions. Additionally, use the Smart Shopping feature available via the app, which allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re informed about any price drops or availability changes for your preferred accommodations.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating and time of year, so being flexible with your dates might help you secure a more attractive rate at a Vientiane hotel. For those seeking a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised service and may sometimes offer better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your selected dates is above or below the average, and if it appears to be on the higher side, we might suggest alternative dates that could help you find a more appealing rate.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Vientiane's excellent public transport links, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

Best time to go to Vientiane

Vientiane experiences its lowest average temperature in December, at 72.3°F (22.4°C), while April is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 86.9°F (30.5°C). August is usually the wettest month. January, July, and September are the peak travel months in Vientiane, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is sunny to mostly cloudy, accompanied by no to frequent rainfall. On the other hand, May, June, and August tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by moderate to frequent rainfall and mostly sunny to mostly cloudy conditions.