Your 7-Day Luang Prabang & Vientiane Trip: Wat Xieng Thong & Beyond

Delve into Laos' royal history at the Royal Palace Museum, home to the former royal family and now showcasing artifacts, royal regalia, and the sacred Prabang Buddha.

"Royal Palace Museum is one of the key cultural landmarks in Luang Prabang, offering visitors an essential introduction to Laos’ royal history and national identity. Housed in the former royal residence of King Sisavang Vong, the museum provides a calm and dignified setting that reflects both traditional Lao aesthetics and early 20th-century colonial influence. The exhibition focuses on royal regalia, diplomatic gifts, ceremonial objects, and historical photographs that help contextualise Laos’ transition from monarchy to a modern nation. While the interpretation is relatively concise, it is enough to give first-time visitors a grounding in the country’s political and cultural past. The architecture itself is a highlight, symmetrical, restrained, and well integrated into the surrounding palace grounds. There are a few important practical points to note. The museum observes a long lunch break from 11:30am to 1:30pm, and access is strictly controlled, so timing your visit is essential. I visited in December, which is peak travel season, and the site was noticeably crowded. Arriving early in the morning or shortly after reopening in the afternoon is advisable. Security rules are also strict. All bags including rucksacks, sling bags, and even small pouches must be deposited at the luggage storage area, which is located at a separate corner of the compound. Visitors should also ensure they wear proper attire, as dress codes are enforced. Overall, while the visit may be brief, the Royal Palace Museum remains a meaningful stop for anyone interested in Lao history and heritage, provided you plan your visit carefully."— Lee Ying Ying

Explore Wat Xiengthong, a magnificent temple considered one of Luang Prabang's most important and beautiful monasteries. Admire its intricate architecture, golden facades, and the striking 'tree of life' mosaic.

"Wat Xieng Thong is, without a doubt, one of my favorite spots in Luang Prabang. From the moment I arrived, I felt like I was stepping into a serene world where hundreds of years of history quietly unfold before your eyes. The temple’s elegant roofs, intricate mosaics, and peaceful courtyards create an atmosphere that’s both grand and intimate. Walking around, you can sense the calm and reverence in every corner. The main hall is beautifully decorated, with golden details and exquisite craftsmanship that make you stop and just take it all in. The grounds are spacious and airy, perfect for strolling slowly, finding quiet spots to reflect, or snapping photos that capture the temple’s timeless beauty. One of the things I loved most is the way light plays across the walls and mosaics in the early morning and late afternoon, giving the place a magical, almost otherworldly glow. There’s a feeling here that time slows down — you can simply be present, soaking in the tranquility and the stunning artistry. Even though it’s a popular tourist destination, Wat Xieng Thong doesn’t feel crowded or chaotic. The peaceful ambiance and thoughtful layout make it easy to enjoy the beauty of the temple at your own pace. Every visit leaves me with a sense of calm, awe, and appreciation for the artistry and care that went into creating this incredible place. For anyone visiting Luang Prabang, Wat Xieng Thong isn’t just a must-see — it’s a place that stays with you long after you leave."— L A K.

Climb the many steps to the summit of Phousi Hill for panoramic views of Luang Prabang, the Mekong River, and the surrounding mountains. Visit the small temple at the top.

"Hundreds of people on tight space trying to go through the crowds, hundreds of hands all over your face with cameras trying to take a photos.. Sunset was nice but honestly not enjoyable with all those people around. Do yourself a favor and sit down at one of the places by the river Mekong and enjoy same view with nice food and drink. More peaceful, more enjoyable and same beautiful Climbing the stairs - 10 minutes Entrance ticket price - less then 2 USD"— Moriarty

Visit the Ock Pop Tok Living Craft Centre to learn about traditional Lao textiles and handicrafts. Observe weavers at work and appreciate the intricate artistry, set by the Mekong River.

"We came with my mother for a half day bamboo weaving workshop. We really enjoyed doing it!! The place is next to the Mekong river and it's really enjoyable!! It's possible to enjoy the restaurant there if you don't want to do a workshop. We did book our workshop directly at the shop in Luang Prabang and it was super easy to do. They can organise a tuktuk to bring you to their place which is not too far from the city center. I really recommend Ock Pop Tock if you want to experience DIY workshops!"— He Lene

After dinner, wander through the stalls of the Luang Prabang Night Market, browsing local handicrafts, textiles, and souvenirs. It's a great place for cultural immersion and unique finds.

"The Luang Prabang Night Market is a must-visit and one of the highlights of the city. The variety of food stalls is fantastic, offering a wide selection of local Lao dishes, fresh grilled meats, noodles, vegetarian options, desserts, and refreshing drinks. Everything is attractively displayed, freshly prepared, and very affordable. Not Aly, I was still feeling great the day after!! Indeed What really stands out is the quality of the food... flavorful, authentic, and consistently good across many stalls. It’s a great place to try traditional specialties in a relaxed, lively atmosphere while watching the cooking happen right in front of you. Beyond the food, the market has a warm and friendly vibe, making it perfect for an easy evening stroll, sampling different dishes, and soaking in the local culture."— CSSEI

Witness the sacred daily ritual of saffron-robed monks collecting alms from devout locals. Maintain respectful distance and silence.

"I don't want to comment the religious aspect of this ceremony in any way, but as an observer, this whole thing looks as a tourist trap to me. Maybe this didn't used to be the case, but nowadays it's the highlight of Luang Prabang and everyone who passes the town stops by at this every day event. To see the ceremony, you need to arrive before sunrise, which is at about 5 AM. Then you pay 50k kip for a chair at the pedestrian walk and a bucket with some goods for monks. The area is very much controlled by local vendors and I felt the competition. There are either paint marks or tape stripes on the pedestrian walk everywhere, dividing the pedestrian walk between the vendors that only operate at their designated area. Once the monks start to pass, the tourists are happily giving them goods and all the tour guides and non-participants take pictures as it would be just a show for the tourists. If you really are a tourist, maybe pay respect by not participating and let the religious people with the best intentions in their heart go for what they want to do."— Jana Krištanová

Explore the vibrant local morning market bustling with vendors selling fresh produce, exotic fruits, local snacks, and traditional ingredients.

"Fantastic education on local cooking ingredients. We were here in Feb, so we did all our walking in early morning. This is a great market, but popular, so good as early as is comfortable... tourist buses arrive just before 7. Market is a mixture of food and goods, mostly food."— greenGoat Shop

Discover the multi-tiered Kuang Si Waterfall, known for its turquoise pools perfect for swimming. Visit the bear sanctuary located at the entrance and hike to the top for panoramic views.

"One of nature's gifts to Laos and those of us who have been so fortunate to visit this amazing country. The waterfalls and the bear sanctuary are a must see when you are in the Luang Prabang area. You will definitely not be disappointed. Luang Si is accessible by road from Luang Prabang and takes approximately 1 hour via van, Tuk Tuk or motorbike. It meanders along the river for a few kms and passed several small villages. It is currently under major renovations/construction so travellers beware that masks are advisable as dust is common and unavoidable when riding on an open Tut Tut or motorbike. Wearing a protective layer that you can remove on arrival is not a bad idea. Regardless, it is all part of the adventure. The reception area to the falls is accessible by walking or taking a shuttle from the parking area. For anyone with mobility issues it is advisable to grab the e-shuttle which is covered under the admittance fee to the falls. Many food/drink services are available as well as toilet facilities. This excursion can easily be a day trip of 4-6 hours as there is lots to see and endless opportunities for the perfect photo-op. I can assure you that spending 3-4 hours surrounded by the beauty and sounds of the falls will be an effortless task. You will have no regrets..."— JM Marsden

Explore the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre, which showcases the diverse cultures and traditional lifestyles of Laos' ethnic groups through exhibits of clothing, tools, and handicrafts.

"Really interesting place in Luang Prabang to learn a bit more about Laos and the different ethnic groups in the country and the differences between them. The gift shop at the end is nice as well because then after learning all about the different ethnic groups you can then buy items hand made by them for a fair price that then goes back into those communities"— Isabelle

Embark on a traditional slow boat for a scenic cruise up the Mekong River. Enjoy the riverine landscapes and glimpses of local life as you head towards the sacred Pak Ou Caves. These two limestone grottoes are filled with thousands of Buddha images, offering a unique spiritual experience.

"Slow boat service to the cave. Ticketing booth opens shortly before boat departs 08:30. Quite touristy. Slow and relaxing boat ride, only do it if you have plenty of time."— Kris P

Experience a light adventure by crossing the iconic, seasonally built Bamboo Bridge over the Nam Khan River, offering unique views and a thrilling walk. Afterwards, visit Wat May Souvannapoumaram, a historically significant temple known for its elaborate golden bas-reliefs and cultural importance.

Wander through Phosy Market, the main local market, to observe daily life, discover fresh produce, local snacks, and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. A great way to experience authentic Luang Prabang culture and local food scene.

"Amazing local market. I love local markets. We went shopping here for our cooking class. The locals were busy and didn't take much notice of us which is nice. No hassles. A lot of Bucher meat here including interesting "mystery forest meats" including dried rat. The smells and blood on the ground can be a bit overwhelming. So beware. Fair warning not for the faint of heart and vegetarians may find it hard"— Rodney Nelson

Enjoy a peaceful early morning stroll along the Mekong River in Luang Prabang, taking in the tranquil scenery before the day heats up.

"Beautiful little park on the banks of the Mekong River. Was a pleasure to walk to here every morning in Luang Prabang. Lovely cool morning air, the stunning view and blissfully peaceful"— D J

Visit Wat Wisunarat, one of Luang Prabang's oldest active temples, known for its unique 'melon stupa' and a collection of ancient Buddha images.

"This is an old temple that is build during the 16th century, the temple is very nice and it's stone pagoda look quite beautiful and unique from other temples around the cities. There also not that much tourist and is a very quiet place to visit. You can be sure that there will be no big and loud tour groups in here."— Wari Kowit

Head to the Luang Prabang bus station to begin your inter-city transfer to Vientiane.

"Dangerous and overbooked. The bus seated 11 people but somehow they crammed 28 of us into a mini van. If you’re lucky, you’ll get a proper seat, but if not, you will get a plastic stool. There is no concern for safety, as over half of the passengers had no seatbelt. Instead of having multiple busses they are greedy, and jeopardise the safety of their passengers. A sign inside the van says ‘please fasten seatbelts’, but how can you on a plastic stool? The journey to the waterfall is very bumpy and takes about 45 minutes. Not one I’d want to be sat on a stool for. Return ticket was 90,000 Kip."— Jenny

Visit the impressive Pha That Luang, a gold-covered large Buddhist stupa in the center of Vientiane. It is a national symbol and one of the most important religious monuments in Laos.

"Impressive Laotian Temple ✨ If you are interested in architecture, religion, or Laotian culture, Pha That Luang is a must-see. Also known as the Great Stupa, Pha That Luang is Laos' most iconic and sacred monument. It is located a few kilometers from the city center. The golden stupa is a symbol of Laotian identity, Buddhism, and national pride. It leaves a captivating impression with its golden appearance. Inside, there are multiple temples. Truly, each section is very impressive."— Phoenixwashere

Gain insight into Laos's poignant history and the ongoing impact of unexploded ordnance, a significant issue for the country. This center provides educational exhibits on clearance efforts.

"An essential stop for any visit to Vientiane. An interesting and informative display giving an insight to a side of Laos which many people won’t be aware of. The legacy of the Vietnam war and the continued efforts by MAG and other agencies to help free the country from UXO (unexploded bombs). The centre relies on donations and the sales of some excellent souvenirs including hot sauce, made in Laos 🇱🇦 Located downtown it is easily found and open 7 days per week."— Frazer Rhodes

Explore Wat Sisaket, Vientiane's oldest surviving temple, famous for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha statues and rows of larger Buddha images.

"Sisaket Museum is one of the most remarkable and serene cultural landmarks in Vientiane. Built in 1818 by King Anouvong, it is known as the oldest surviving temple in the city, and it beautifully represents a blend of Lao and Siamese architectural styles. The moment you enter the temple grounds, you can feel a deep sense of peace and history — the calm atmosphere, traditional wooden structures, and shady trees make it a truly spiritual experience. The highlight of Wat Sisaket is the cloister surrounding the main ordination hall, where more than 6,000 Buddha images are displayed. These statues, made of bronze, wood, silver, and stone, range in size from tiny to life-sized and are arranged neatly in small wall niches. It’s an amazing sight that shows the deep Buddhist devotion of the Lao people. Inside the ordination hall (sim), the murals are breathtaking — centuries-old paintings that depict Buddhist stories and daily life in ancient Laos. Photography isn’t allowed inside, which helps preserve the calm and sacred atmosphere. The museum also exhibits ancient palm-leaf manuscripts, relics, and religious artifacts that reflect Laos’s rich spiritual heritage. Everything is well cared for and clearly presented. The entrance fee is 30,000 Kip for foreigners and 5,000 Kip for locals, which is very reasonable. It’s located just across from Ho Phra Keo, making it easy to visit both together. A must-visit site for anyone who appreciates culture, history, and peace. 🌿🙏"— siva jeyan

Visit Haw Phra Kaew, a former royal temple that once housed the Emerald Buddha. Now a museum, it displays a collection of Lao and Khmer artifacts, including Buddha images.

"I learned that the Emerald Buddha statue at Wat Phra Kaew in Thailand was once located here. If you're not interested in history, you might just think of a few small Buddha statues and pass by, but the Emerald Buddha statue is an important symbol, and knowing its history makes visiting Laos much more meaningful. Knowing the rituals or history of a country makes the journey more meaningful. Understanding its culture and people enhances the travel experience. The entrance fee for foreigners is 30,000 kip, approximately $1.50. If you see red and white banners, it means that foreigners can also visit. Not every museum or historical building is open to foreigners. Taking photos inside is prohibited."— Phoenixwashere

Embark on an adventurous kayaking trip along the serene Mekong River, offering unique perspectives of Vientiane's riverside and a chance to enjoy the natural landscape during sunset.

"I took my Chinese friend to Mekong Escapes, hoping to share a relaxing and memorable experience. Unfortunately, he was short on time and couldn’t join their cruise, which was a bit disappointing. However, the ambiance and setting were so inviting that I’m already planning to come back in the future to fully enjoy everything this place has to offer!"— Kitsada Saleumxay

Explore the surreal Buddha Park, an outdoor sculpture park featuring over 200 Buddhist and Hindu statues, including a giant reclining Buddha and a colossal concrete pumpkin structure.

"Definitely worth a visit. 30 min from city center. It's one of the more interesting places of interest (not many attractions in Vientiane). Close at 5pm so plan properly. I would have given it 5 stars but they don't have audio commentary or a map to explain the story behind the statues."— M. Chen

Explore Talat Sao Morning Market, Vientiane's main shopping hub. Browse through a vast array of goods from traditional textiles and handicrafts to electronics and local produce. While called 'Morning Market', many sections remain active into the afternoon.

"Amazing place with a lot of interesting shops , very affordable prices. could spent here many hours , looking for some stones and antique copies and antique originals also . The point that you have mix of fake and real products. Must visit place if you like to explore retro shopping malls. It has two buildings. Very authentic ☺️🙏🏻"— Dima Tim

Visit Wat Si Muang, one of Vientiane's most revered temples, built on the ruins of a Khmer temple. It's a popular place for locals to make offerings and pray for good fortune.

"Wat Si Muang is one of Vientiane’s most important and revered Buddhist temples, closely associated with the city’s spiritual protection. The temple is believed to house the spirit of Lady Si Muang, who sacrificed herself during the city’s foundation, and many locals come here to pray for luck, health, and success. With its lively atmosphere, traditional Lao architecture, and strong spiritual significance, Wat Si Muang remains a key cultural and religious landmark in Laos’ capital."— J. Lee

Wander through the lively Vientiane Night Market, set along the Mekong Riverfront. Browse stalls selling clothes, souvenirs, and local crafts while enjoying the cooler evening breeze.

"Yes it's great! It's clean, tidy, bright, vibrant. Food is across the road, it's seperated. Took me a while to find it. Great quality clothing, the vendors are selling nice stuff. Probably a bit pricey, they will try ride the tourists. I'd suggest knowing exactly what you want and offer a price first."— Funder Studios

Delve into the history and architecture of this ancient temple, home to a large bronze Buddha statue and a monastic school.

"Wat Ong Teu Mahawihan is an important Buddhist temple located in the heart of Vientiane, Laos, known for its role as a major center of Buddhist learning. The temple features traditional Lao architecture with a richly decorated ordination hall and a large bronze Buddha image, symbolizing spiritual strength and wisdom. Historically, Wat Ong Teu served as a residence and teaching place for high-ranking monks, making it a significant religious and cultural landmark in the city."— J. Lee

Take a deeper dive into the charming Mixay village, discovering hidden alleys, traditional wooden houses, and local life away from the main streets.

"Wat Mixai is another major temple on Rue Setthathirrath not far from the even larger Wat Ong Teu. If there was ever a street from Buddhist temple hopping, this would surely be the one. Like many Buddhist temples in Southeast Asia, the temple is also a school, with monks often serving double duty as teachers and often being quite proficient in English as well (while regrettably, there is little in the way of English signage). Sweet Sinay says: Wat Mixai is a pretty meditative locale and the mood is pretty calm. This is a good place to see monks hard at work maintaining the temple facilities as well. If so inclined, volunteer a bit of your time and help out a little.😉"— Sweet Sinay's Reviews

Admire the elegant French colonial architecture of the Vientiane Central Post Office and perhaps send a postcard home as a souvenir.

"As large post offices go, especially in tourist cities, this is one of the best I've been to. Efficient, polite staff who are helpful and speak English. The cost of posting postcards in envelopes is a flat 40000k, irrespective of destination. Buy stamps at the philately counter and post them in the box outside. Remember to give them a shove, as when I went to post mine the last customer's card was partially sticking out. Luckily for them I pushed it in."— Not Your Concern

Enjoy a final leisurely walk along the Mekong Riverfront, taking in the serene views and local activity at Chao Anouvong Park.

"Must be one of the biggest park right in the capital city of Vientiane. Situates next to Mekong river bank, presidential palace, hospital, banks, hotels, temples, night market and other shops. It’s well maintained and look welcoming. Has lots of trees and flowers, it’s so relaxing with cool wind blowing from river."— Andy Chan

Transfer to Wattay International Airport (VTE) for your international flight home to New York, NY, allowing ample time for check-in and security.

"What a neat and clean open space with excellent facilities and speedy custom and immigration. It’s an efficient airport, well managed and well maintained."— Mas