Vientiane Full Day City Tour
Local Taxes and Service Charges
Sightseeing & Excursions
Transportation
Drinking Water
Entrance Fees
Meals as stated
From Price per person
price based on 2 persons travelling or
per person for join-in tours.
$92
Excursion Highlights
- Explore the historical significance of Wat Sisaket, the only temple to survive the Siamese Invasion of 1828.
- Visit the iconic Patuxai, a monument built with American funds, often referred to as the 'vertical runway'.
- Gain insight into the impact of the Secret War at the COPE Visitor Center and support local empowerment at the Lao Disabled Women Development Center.
Vientiane Full Day City Tour
Your journey begins with a prompt pickup at 9 am, setting the stage for an enriching exploration of Vientiane's historical treasures. The first stop is Wat Sisaket, a remarkable temple that stands as the sole survivor of the Siamese Invasion of 1828, offering a glimpse into the resilience of Laotian culture. Just across the street lies Wat Ho Phra Kheo, a structure that was meticulously rebuilt in the 1930s. This temple once housed the renowned Emerald Buddha, which now resides in the Grand Palace in Bangkok, adding to the allure of this sacred site.
Continuing your tour, you will visit Patuxai, a striking Lao Victory Monument completed approximately 70 years ago. Originally intended to fund a new airport, the American-supplied cement was instead used to construct this impressive monument, which has since earned the affectionate nickname of the 'vertical runway'.
Your next destination is That Luang, the most revered structure in all of Laos, prominently featured in numerous national emblems. Here, you will feel the spiritual significance that this landmark holds for the Laotian people. A visit to the COPE Visitor Center follows, where you will gain valuable insights into the Secret War, which left Laos as the most heavily bombed country in history, and learn about the ongoing efforts to support those affected.
After a break for lunch (not included), the afternoon invites you to venture outside the city to the famous Buddha Park, located near the friendship bridge. This serene park is home to a collection of fascinating sculptures that reflect the rich tapestry of Buddhist and Hindu mythology. On your return to Vientiane, you will stop at the Lao Disabled Women Development Center, a remarkable initiative where women with disabilities come from across Laos to live, learn, and gain vocational skills, empowering them to lead independent lives. This visit not only enriches your understanding of local culture but also supports a vital cause.
As the day winds down, you will return to Vientiane in the late afternoon, filled with memories of the city’s history and the inspiring stories of its people.
Destination Information
Vientiane
Vientiane unfolds along the banks of the Mekong River, where low-rise buildings and wide boulevards create a calm urban environment distinct from the busier capitals of Southeast Asia. The city’s scale and pace reflect a blend of French colonial architecture and traditional Lao design, with quiet streets that invite exploration on foot. Central to Vientiane’s character is its integration of spiritual and civic life, visible in the golden Pha That Luang stupa, which dominates the skyline and serves as a national symbol. Nearby, Wat Si Saket offers a glimpse into the city’s religious heritage through its preserved cloistered galleries and Buddha images. The riverfront promenade provides a public space where locals gather, balancing the city’s historical sites with everyday activity. Markets like Talat Sao bring a practical vibrancy, showcasing local crafts and commerce amid the city’s measured rhythm. Institutions such as the Lao National Museum further anchor Vientiane’s role in preserving and presenting the country’s cultural and historical narratives within a setting defined by openness and understated urban charm.Travel Notes
- The tour begins with a pickup at 9 am; ensure clients are ready on time to avoid delays.
- Wat Sisaket and Wat Ho Phra Kheo are both significant cultural sites; clients should be respectful of local customs while visiting these temples.
- Patuxai is a popular landmark; clients may encounter crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- At That Luang, clients should be aware of the importance of this site in Lao culture and may want to take time to appreciate its significance.
- The COPE Visitor Center provides a sobering insight into Laos' history; clients may find this experience emotionally impactful.
- Lunch is not included; recommend nearby local restaurants for an authentic experience, but advise clients to check opening hours.
- The Buddha Park is located outside Vientiane; the journey may take approximately 30 minutes, so clients should be prepared for a short ride.
- The Lao Disabled Women Development Center visit is an opportunity to learn about local empowerment initiatives; encourage clients to engage respectfully with the staff and residents.
Indicative Travel Distances
- Vientiane to Buddha Park: Approx. 25 km / approx. 30 minutes by road.
- Buddha Park to Lao Disabled Women Development Center: Approx. 15 km / approx. 20 minutes by road.
- Lao Disabled Women Development Center to Vientiane: Approx. 10 km / approx. 15 minutes by road.
All travel distances and travel times are indicative only and may vary depending on traffic, weather, road conditions, routing, sightseeing stops and local operating conditions. Distances and travel times are based on direct routing and do not account for optional visits, detours or sightseeing activities included during the journey.
Included Services
- Transportation as outlined in the itinerary
- Services of a local guide in the selected language (where applicable)
- Sightseeing and excursions as specified in the itinerary
- Entrance fees to sites and attractions mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals as stated in the itinerary
- Drinking water during touring where provided
- Applicable local taxes and service charges
Excluded Services
- International and domestic flights unless specifically stated
- Travel insurance
- Meals and beverages not mentioned in the itinerary
- Personal expenses of any kind
- Gratuities and tips for guides, drivers and other service providers
- Any items not specifically mentioned under "Included in Your Excursion”
