Where to Stay in Vientiane, Laos: 3 Best Areas & Hotels

Planning a trip to Vientiane and not sure where to stay? You’re in the right place.

Vientiane is a fairly easy city to explore, but where you stay can make a difference, especially if you only have a couple of days. Do you want to be within walking distance of restaurants and main sights, or would you rather stay a little further out in a quieter area with a nicer hotel?

We’ve broken down three areas worth considering, with our favorite hotel picks for different budgets. We’ll explain what each area is like, what you’ll find nearby, and who we think it’s best for, so you can choose somewhere that works for your trip.

Overview of the Best Areas to Stay in Vientiane

Vientiane is more spread out than you might expect, so getting around requires some planning. You can walk between sights in the center, but you’ll need transport for places further out. Tuk-tuks are easy to find and super handy for short trips, but you’ve also got taxis if you prefer a bit more comfort.

Some hotels also offer free shuttles to the City Center and the airport, so it’s worth checking before you book. If you’re planning to visit Buddha Park, remember that it’s about 15.5 miles (25 km) outside the city. You can get there by public bus, tuk-tuk, taxi, or an organized tour if you prefer not to worry about transport and logistics. 

As for when to visit, November to February is usually the most comfortable time for sightseeing. It’s also a popular period, though, so book your hotel ahead if you have your eye on somewhere special.

• Ban Haysoke / City Center – Best for first-time visitors – This is our favorite choice for first-timers because you’ll have restaurants, landmarks, lively markets, and shops right on your doorstep. We love Lao Poet Hotel for its rooftop infinity pool and bar with great city views, plus it’s surrounded by restaurants and cafés. 

• Riverfront – Best for views and evening atmosphere – If you’re after a romantic riverside setting, this area is hard to beat! Eastin Hotel Vientiane is a fantastic choice with a year-round pool, free shuttle to the City Center, and excellent breakfast, right beside the Mekong River.   

• Sikhottabong – Best for upscale hotels and airport access – We recommend this area if you’d rather stay in a spacious, upscale hotel than be steps away from the main sights. Champa Phan Boutique Hotel offers a comfortable stay with a swimming pool, lush garden, and sauna, plus breakfast and a paid airport shuttle, just 1.9 miles (3 km) from Wattay International Airport. 

Where to Stay in Vientiane 

Ban Haysoke / City Center 

BEST FOR FIRST-TIME VISITORS

Pros 

• A great base to explore the city and the main sights  
• Huge choice of restaurants, cafés, shops and markets  
• Close to the riverfront

Cons 

• Busy streets can be noisy 
• Can feel touristy 

If it’s your first time in Vientiane, we’d definitely start by looking for a hotel around Ban Haysoke and the City Center. You’ll have LOTS of restaurants and cafés to choose from, and the Mekong Riverfront is close enough for your evening walks. We found it super convenient not having to figure out transport every time we wanted to go out.

You’ll also be within reach of some of the city’s main sights, including Wat Sisaket, Haw Phra Kaew and the Presidential Palace. Patuxai Monument is a little further away, but you can easily get there by tuk-tuk (they’re everywhere!). There’s plenty to do in the evening, too. You can simply walk down to the riverside night market and spend some time browsing the stalls and people-watching.

Now, the City Center isn’t the prettiest part of Vientiane, but we were OK with that. Some streets are busy with traffic, and you won’t find many charming buildings. You’ll also need to arrange transport to visit sights further out, such as Pha That Luang and Buddha Park.

Still, if you’re only staying for a couple of days, having restaurants, the riverfront, and several major sights close by is a pretty good trade-off. 

Settha Palace Hotel – $$$ 

If you’re looking to splurge and get seriously spoiled, Settha Palace Hotel is just the place. It has that classic luxury feel, with an authentic Indochina style, period furnishings, and Italian marble bathrooms. The service sounds pretty special, too. They’ll even pick you up from the airport in a vintage London taxi! How nice is that?

The hotel also has a tropical garden where you can enjoy morning coffee or afternoon tea, plus a French colonial-inspired restaurant serving Laotian favorites and multi-course dinners. As for the location, you really can’t ask for much better. The hotel sits on Rue Pangkham, a short walk from the Mekong River waterfront, Patuxai Monument, That Dam Stupa, and the local night markets.

So, if you want to get around on foot, this is perfect! Prices typically start at around $160 USD per night, depending on the room and season. 

If Settha Palace Hotel is fully booked, Souphattra Heritage is another luxurious heritage stay with great perks, including a saltwater pool, concierge service, a coffee shop, and spacious rooms with balconies. Location-wise, it sits just off the main road, tucked away on a quiet village lane but still just a stone’s throw from the action.

Alternatively, DoubleTree by Hilton offers a more modern stay in a skyscraper, with upper-floor rooms offering amazing views over the Mekong River and even the border with neighboring Thailand. It’s also very central, putting you just a 10-minute walk from the Lao National Museum and Wat Mixai Temple.

Lao Poet Hotel – $$ 

If you’re looking for something strikingly different that doesn’t cost a fortune, Lao Poet Hotel is definitely worth checking out! This was our stay, too, and we liked everything about it.

The black façade, urban design with quotes and tropical wallpapers, and stunning rooftop pool give it lots of character. Plus, you’ve got spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows and lovely views of the Vientiane skyline. 

The location is convenient, too. Tucked away on Rue Hengboun, it’s surrounded by cafés, cocktail lounges, food spots and bars, and just steps from the Mekong River waterfront. So you can explore with little hassle.

For food, you’ll find both Western classics and authentic Laotian dishes, plus a spa if you want some downtime. Prices usually start at around $120 USD per night, which is definitely a steal for the location.

If Lao Poet Hotel is all sold out, Salana Boutique Hotel is a solid boutique alternative, right across the street from Wat Ong Teu / Wat Chan Temple (you might even spot saffron-robed monks from your window!). Better yet, it’s known for its breakfast, with Vietnamese-style steamed eggs and Moroccan pancakes on the menu. Yum!

Mintra Hotel Vientiane is another favorite, with a lovely rooftop infinity pool overlooking the city and the Mekong River, plus a bar with live music on Saturday nights. The location is hard to beat, too, just a short walk from Wat Mixay Temple, French bakeries, cocktail lounges, and the Mekong River Night Market.

Xaysomboun Hotel & SPA – $ 

If you’re looking to save, Xaysomboun Hotel & SPA is a fantastic base for exploring Vientiane! That Dam and the bustling Talat Sao Morning Market are right at your doorstep, plus a rooftop pool and a sky bar where you can enjoy a cocktail with a view.

There’s also a minimarket, a tour desk, and a direct airport shuttle service. Rooms range from budget-friendly Superior rooms to spacious family rooms and executive suites with bathtubs, so you’ll find a variety to suit your budget and needs. That said, we think it’s a great option for families looking for a clean, convenient place to stay.

After a long day of sightseeing, you can head to the full-service spa for a deep-tissue or traditional Thai massage. Sounds great, right? With prices starting at around $50 USD per night, including breakfast, we think it’s a pretty sweet deal.

Another great budget stay is Chanthapanya Hotel, where you get to enjoy traditional Laotian warmth and comfort. With free breakfast, an outdoor pool, and a location right opposite the Lao National Cultural Hall, it almost sounds too good to be true!

ibis Vientiane Nam Phu is a solid backup, right on the edge of historic Nam Phu (Fountain) Square, one of the nicest spots in the city center. Expect good sound insulation, a tasty breakfast option (not included, but pretty cheap), and a smooth check-in.

Riverfront

BEST FOR VIEWS AND EVENING ATMOSPHERE

Pros 

• Lovely Mekong River views, especially around sunset
• Riverside night market and street food 
• Lots of restaurants and cafés along the promenade
• A lively atmosphere in the evenings 

Cons 

• It can get crowded around sunset and in the evening  
• The river itself isn’t really a swimming beach or a tropical waterfront escape  

If you enjoy a good sunset and like a romantic, lively place to wander, Vientiane’s Riverfront is a great option. The Mekong promenade is the main draw, with the riverside night market, Chao Anouvong Park, temples, and plenty of restaurants nearby. It’s also a really easy area to explore, so there’s no need to plan things in advance.

Things get livelier in the evening, when you can browse the market stalls, join a food tour, or settle into a restaurant for dinner. And later, a walk along the Mekong is an absolute must!

The main downside is that the area around the night market can get really busy, and hotels facing the promenade may be noisy from traffic and the market. You’ll also need a tuk-tuk to reach some of Vientiane’s main attractions, so yes, staying here doesn’t mean you can walk everywhere.

All in all, if evenings by the river sound like your kind of thing, this area is well worth considering. Just check which way your room faces if you’re a light sleeper!

Amari Vientiane – $$$ 

Our favorite luxury stay here is the Amari Vientiane, without a doubt. First, it’s massive, which is great if you want something different from a boutique hotel. There’s an infinity pool, a separate children’s pool, a rooftop venue serving high-end food, and even live music in the piano lounge on certain nights.

You’ve also got five restaurants serving everything from local dishes to international buffets. The rooms are spacious and elegant, and some even come with access to the exclusive Club Nava Lounge on the 15th floor.

The location is another big plus. You’re right steps from the Vientiane Night Market and Mekong Riverside Park, and Wattay International Airport is only about a 12-minute drive away, too. Prices typically range from $90 to $110 USD per night, which isn’t bad at all for a five-star hotel!

Alternatively, La Seine Boutique Hotel offers a more intimate stay, right on the edge of the lively Vientiane Night Market. It’s a lovely choice for couples and wine lovers, with its own wine cellar and a jazz lounge where you can enjoy live music in the evening.

Eastin Hotel Vientiane – $$ 

Eastin Hotel Vientiane is our top mid-range choice here, but there’s so much to love beyond the price. It’s actually brand new, having opened in 2026, so everything feels fresh and squeaky clean. If you’re eco-conscious, you might also appreciate that it’s the first hotel in Laos to achieve the prestigious Green Globe sustainability certification.

The perks are pretty great, too. It has a rooftop restaurant and lounge with 360-degree city views, plus an outdoor pool and a gym. Some rooms even have balconies overlooking the Mekong River. Plus, it’s just a five-minute drive from Wattay International Airport (VTE), making it a handy option for transit travelers.

But we especially like the free hourly shuttle to the downtown night markets and central areas. Pretty convenient, right? Prices start at around $100 USD per night, depending on the room and travel date.

Riverside Hotel – $ 

Riverside Hotel is one of our favorite budget stays in Vientiane. The rooms are modern, breakfast is included and served at the rooftop restaurant, and the hotel even offers a spa and concierge service. Each room also has a balcony or terrace, so your morning coffee will come with city or river views.

Best of all, the front desk can arrange high-speed train tickets to Luang Prabang, with a shuttle pickup right from the lobby. Pretty useful if you’re planning to explore more of Laos! Location-wise, you’re just a two-minute walk from the Mekong River Night Market, with local food spots, pubs, cafes, and pedestrian streets all around. 

Overall, it’s a convenient base for exploring Vientiane, especially its riverfront nightlife. Prices start at around $45 USD per night. A bargain, if you ask us!

If Riverside Hotel is fully booked, Le Charme Vientiane Hotel is another good option, with clean, spacious rooms, a pool, a restaurant, and affordable breakfast. It’s tucked away on a quiet street, but still within easy reach of the Mekong River Night Market and local eateries.

Sikhottabong

BEST FOR UPSCALE HOTELS & AIRPORT ACCESS

Pros 

• Modern, upscale hotels with great facilities
• Convenient location for Wattay International Airport
• Quieter, more local feel away from the main tourist hub

Cons 

• You’ll need transport to reach the main sights and nightlife
• Fewer restaurants, cafés and bars within short walking distance

If you want a nice, modern hotel with plenty of room to spread out, and don’t mind being a bit away from the action, Sikhottabong could be right up your street! You’ll find some larger, upscale hotels here, with spacious rooms and plenty of facilities. It’s also handy for Wattay International Airport, especially if you’re only staying for a night or two or have an early flight.

It’s also a decent option if you’re traveling for business or want to see a different side of Vientiane. You can explore a few local markets and temples, but honestly, this area is more about the hotel than the sightseeing. If yours has a pool, spa, a gym, or a nice restaurant and bar, you might be perfectly happy spending a lazy afternoon there.

And when you want to do something different, you’ll probably need a taxi or ride-hailing service to get around, whether you’re heading into the City Center or visiting the main attractions.

So, would we stay here on a first visit to Vientiane? Probably not, unless we found a hotel we REALLY loved. We’d rather be closer to the center, where it’s easier to explore on foot, but that’s just us. Still, for a short stopover or a comfortable stay near the airport, Sikhottabong makes sense.

Crowne Plaza Vientiane – $$$ 

Crowne Plaza Vientiane is one of the most popular five-star stays here, and if you want to treat yourself, it’s definitely worth a look. We absolutely love the resort-style infinity pool. It’s easy to picture yourself lounging there until sunset!

If your budget allows, I’d also consider booking an executive room or suite for access to the Club Lounge, where you get all-day refreshments, afternoon high tea, and evening cocktails with gourmet canapés. 

Three restaurants serve everything from seafood and Laotian buffets to Western and Asian favorites. You’ve also got a spa for some well-deserved downtime and a 24-hour gym if you want to keep active. Location-wise, it’s about an eight-minute drive from Wattay International Airport (VTE) and close to the Mekong promenade. Prices typically range from $85 to $150+ USD per night, which is pretty good for a five-star stay!

Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane is a great family choice, with a large infinity pool, a separate kids’ pool, and spacious suites with kitchenettes so you have plenty of room to settle in. It’s also just a 15-minute drive from the airport, with the promenade and Chao Fa Ngum Statue just a short walk away.

Champa Phan Boutique Hotel – $$ 

If you prefer smaller hotels with a relaxed vibe, Champa Phan Boutique Hotel could be right up your street! It has a garden and outdoor pool, giving you a nice, quiet spot to unwind after a busy day exploring. And sometimes, that feels better than a massage!

The outdoor pool is surrounded by greenery, and you’ve also got a sauna if that’s more your thing. The rooms have modern furnishings, and some come with balconies overlooking the garden or pool. There are family rooms too, and breakfast is available, so you don’t have to head out first thing in the morning.

It’s also conveniently located near Wattay International Airport, with the Chao Fa Ngum Statue within walking distance. It’s a good option if you want somewhere peaceful to return to without being too far from the main sights. Prices start at around $40 USD per night!

S Park Design Hotel is a great backup if you like trendy hotels with a livelier social scene. Its popular restaurant has live acoustic bands and DJ sets most nights, and you’re just a short tuk-tuk ride from the central night markets.

Capitol Residence – $ 

If you’re looking to cut costs, Capitol Residence is worth checking out! It’s not only affordable, but also cozy and spacious, with kitchens and fireplaces in the rooms, making it ideal for family stays. Kind of makes you want to stay longer!

You’ve got a scenic rooftop terrace and a coffee shop where you can enjoy breakfast, which is included with some room bookings. There’s also a library lounge, a spa and nail salon, a fitness center, and a cocktail lounge.

It’s about 2.5 miles (4 km) from Wattay International Airport, but they offer a free airport shuttle, so arrivals and departures are all sorted. You’re also within a 15-minute walk of the Lao National History Museum and Ban Anou Night Market, perfect for sightseeing and shopping. Prices start at just $50 USD per night.

Another favorite budget stay in the area is Chandara Boutique Hotel, with a secluded warm pool and a relaxing vibe, so you get a proper holiday in every sense of the word. It’s also just a 10-minute drive from Wattay International Airport (VTE), making it ideal if you have an early flight or arrive late.

We also like LAOTEL, especially for its year-round outdoor pool and poolside bar, which make a great spot to unwind after a long day. Location-wise, you’re just a 5-minute walk from the Mekong River and downtown Vientiane, and Wattay International Airport is a quick drive away. 

Top Activities in Vientiane

There’s so much more to Vientiane than meets the eye! From exploring beautiful temples and tasting delicious local food to relaxing by the river and heading out on fun adventures, there’s plenty to keep you busy. Here are our favorite things to do that you won’t want to miss!

• Explore Vientiane’s highlights on a private tour – Want to see the best of Vientiane without all the planning? This private tour lets you explore must-see spots like Buddha Park, Wat Ho Phra Keo, and the Great Sacred Stupa with a local guide, plus you can customize the itinerary to suit your interests!

• Eat your way through Vientiane by tuk-tuk – Foodies, this one’s for you! Join this tuk-tuk food tour and explore lively local markets while tasting everything from papaya salad and grilled meats to fried insects (if you’re feeling brave!), all while learning about local life from your driver.

• See Vientiane’s top sights in just half a day – Short on time but still want to see the best of Vientiane? This small-group tour takes you to top sights like Wat Sisaket, the Presidential Palace, and Patuxay Monument, with a fantastic guide bringing the city’s history and culture to life!

Thanks for reading!

Vientiane might be a laid-back capital, but there’s plenty to love! From exploring beautiful temples and lively markets to watching sunsets over the Mekong, it’s a city that’s easy to enjoy at your own pace. Whether you prefer staying in the heart of the action or relaxing somewhere quieter, there’s a spot for you. Now all that’s left is to pack your bags and get ready to explore Vientiane!

And why stop at Vientiane? Check out our other Asia travel blogs here for more inspiration, favorite experiences, and handy advice to help plan your next adventure. Or keep scrolling to see a few of our favorites!

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