3 day itinerary for Vientiane

Itinerary

Vientiane, the charming capital of Laos, is a delightful blend of French colonial architecture, Buddhist temples, and a laid-back atmosphere. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that will help you soak in the culture, history, and delicious food of this lovely city!

## Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Vientiane

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at a local café. Try some traditional Lao coffee and a bowl of khao piak sen (Lao noodle soup) to fuel your adventures!
• Patuxai Victory Monument: After breakfast, head to Patuxai, a stunning archway reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city and snap some great photos!

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Eatery: Grab lunch at a nearby eatery. You can’t go wrong with a plate of larb (a spicy minced meat salad) or some fresh spring rolls.
• That Luang Stupa: Post-lunch, visit the iconic That Luang, the national symbol of Laos. This golden stupa is a must-see and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. Take your time to explore and appreciate the serene atmosphere.

Evening:

• Dinner by the Mekong River: Head to the Mekong Riverfront for dinner. There are plenty of restaurants where you can enjoy a meal while watching the sunset over the river. Try some grilled fish or a traditional Lao curry.
• Night Market: After dinner, stroll through the night market along the river. It’s a great place to pick up souvenirs, try local snacks, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

## Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Bakery: Treat yourself to a French pastry at one of Vientiane’s lovely bakeries. A croissant or pain au chocolat with coffee will set you up nicely for the day!
• COPE Visitor Centre: Visit the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the impact of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos. It’s an eye-opening experience that highlights the resilience of the Laotian people.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy a traditional Lao meal at a local restaurant. Try some sticky rice with grilled meats and fresh vegetables.
• Wat Si Saket: After lunch, visit Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, known for its thousands of Buddha images. The architecture is stunning, and it’s a peaceful place to wander around.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Riverside Restaurant: Head back to the Mekong for dinner. This time, try a restaurant that offers a mix of Lao and Thai cuisine. Don’t forget to sample some local beer!
• Relax at a Bar: After dinner, unwind at a bar along the river. Enjoy a cocktail or a local beer while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

## Day 3: Nature and Relaxation

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Café: Start your day with a hearty breakfast. Try some eggs with Lao-style sausage and a fresh fruit smoothie.
• Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan): Take a short trip to Buddha Park, located about 25 km from the city. This quirky park is filled with large sculptures of Buddha and Hindu deities. It’s a great spot for photos and a leisurely stroll.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at a Local Restaurant: Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant. Sample some more local dishes, perhaps a spicy papaya salad or a noodle dish.
• Return to Vientiane: Head back to the city and visit the Lao National Museum to learn more about the country’s history and culture.

Evening:

• Dinner at a Local Eatery: For your last dinner in Vientiane, try a restaurant that specializes in Lao barbecue. It’s a fun and interactive dining experience!
• Evening Stroll: Take a leisurely stroll along the Mekong River one last time. Enjoy the night lights and the gentle breeze as you reflect on your wonderful trip.

Tips:

• Transportation: Tuk-tuks are a fun way to get around the city. Negotiate the fare before you hop in!
• Currency: The local currency is the Lao Kip, but US dollars are widely accepted.
• Language: While Lao is the official language, many people in the tourism industry speak English.

Enjoy your trip to Vientiane! It’s a city that will surely capture your heart with its charm and warmth. Safe travels! 🌏✈️