Vientiane Guided City Tour

Discover Vientiane's most significant cultural and historical sites on this guided tour of the Laos capital. Explore its temples, monuments, and more with an expert English-speaking guide.

Vientiane Guided City Tour Itinerary

On the morning of your tour, at approximately 9 am, your guide will meet you at your hotel in Vientiane. You'll start your journey at the beautiful temple of Wat Si Saket, the oldest Buddhist monastery in the Laos capital. As you delve into its history, appreciate the preservation of its original architecture despite being ransacked by the Siamese army in the 19th century.

Your exploration continues with visits to additional Buddhist sanctuaries, including Haw Pha Kaeo, a former temple built in the 16th century to house the revered Thai Emerald Buddha statue. The historic façade and terrace are striking, as is the interior, which now serves as a museum dedicated to religious art. Nearby, you'll enjoy views of the Presidential Palace situated along the Mekong river.

Midway through the tour, you will visit the COPE visitor centre, an organization that aids victims of Vietnam War bombings. Laos holds the unfortunate title of the most-bombed country in the world, with a significant number of land mines still hidden in rural areas, posing a continuing threat to local communities more than 40 years after the war's end.

After reflecting on Laos' challenging history, proceed to Patuxai, Laos' own version of the Arc du Triomphe. Known as the "Victory Gate," this monumental arch in ornate Laotian style honors the soldiers who lost their lives in World War II and during Laos' struggle for independence from France.

Next, visit the vast Pha That Luang, a magnificent gold-covered Buddhist stupa that symbolizes national pride and is a key landmark in Vientiane. Take time to learn about its history as you explore the grounds, which feature lovely gardens, temples, and monuments.

Your guided tour of Vientiane concludes with a scenic walk along the picturesque Mekong riverbank, followed by returning to your hotel.

Full-Day Vientiane Tour

For a deeper immersion into Vientiane's culture and history, opt for a full-day guided tour of the city. Starting at 9 am, you'll visit Wat Si Saket, Haw Pha Kaeo, Patuxai, and the Pha That Luang Stupa, finishing with a delicious lunch in a local restaurant.

Post-lunch, the journey takes you to Buddha Park, a serene area boasting over 200 Buddha statues and various Buddhist symbols. Then, enjoy a peaceful stroll along the green mountainous banks of the Mekong River.

Conclude your day by visiting the Laos Disabled Women's Development Centre, gaining insight into their vital work supporting and advocating for Laotian women with disabilities. This experience promises to be truly inspiring.

After eight hours of exploration in Vientiane, your tour will end back at your hotel.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

During the tour, you will:

• Be picked up from your hotel by your guide.
• Visit significant sites like Wat Si Saket, Haw Pha Kaeo, COPE visitor centre, Patuxai, Pha That Luang, and Buddha Park.
• Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant during the full-day option.
• Engage with educational experiences at the Laos Disabled Women's Development Centre.

INCLUDED

• Expert English-speaking guide.
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off.
• All entrance fees for sites visited.
• Lunch on the full-day tour.

NOT INCLUDED

• Personal expenses.
• Beverages during lunch.

MEETING POINT

Your guide will meet you at your hotel in Vientiane at approximately 9 am.