FindYourStay
🎒Backpackers

Where to Stay in Vientiane

Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips

🛡️ Safe💰 Budget: LAK 300000/day🚇 Good Transit☀️ Best: Jan, Feb, Dec

Our pick for backpackers

Stay in Sikhai Area (East of City Center)

Provides more affordable accommodation options and a glimpse into local life, though requires transport for major attractions.

Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers

Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Vientiane

1

Sikhai Area (East of City Center)

Budget

A more residential and developing area with a local feel, offering a quieter escape.

digital nomadsbudgetfamilies
  • +More affordable accommodation
  • +Authentic local experience
  • +Quieter than the center
  • -Less walkable to major tourist attractions
  • -Fewer dining and entertainment options
  • -Requires transport to get to the center
🏨 The Pemberley Boutique Hotel🏨 Douangchanh Hotel🏨 AVANI+ Vientiane Hotel
2

Old Quarter

Mid-range

A charming, historic area with French colonial architecture and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.

first-timerscouplesculturefoodies
  • +Central location
  • +Beautiful architecture
  • +Good range of restaurants and cafes
  • -Can get very hot and humid
  • -Limited nightlife options
🏨 Ansara Hotel🏨 My Design Hotel🏨 La Seine Boutique Hotel
3

Riverside (South of Setthathirath Road)

Mid-range

The bustling heart of Vientiane, offering a mix of tourist amenities and local life along the Mekong.

first-timersfoodiesnightlifefamilies
  • +Abundant dining and drinking options
  • +Lively atmosphere
  • +Convenient for tourist services
  • -Can be noisy
  • -Traffic congestion
🏨 Settha Palace Hotel🏨 Vientiane Plaza Hotel🏨 Chao Anouvong Hotel

Daily Budget (Budget)

LAK 300000/day

Douangdeunh Guesthouse dorm bedLAK 70000
Street food market for sticky rice and grilled meatsLAK 50000
Tuk-tuk for short distancesLAK 50000
Visit Pha That Luang and Wat Si SaketLAK 60000
Explore the Mekong Riverfront at sunsetLAK 0
Local noodle soup (Khao Piak Sen) from a street vendorLAK 20000
See all budget tiers

Hidden Gems in Vientiane

Lesser-known spots the locals love

🛍️

Talat Sao Morning Market

FREE

Beyond the tourist souvenir stalls, explore the inner market for a truly local experience. You'll find everything from fresh produce and household goods to delicious street food snacks that locals frequent.

marketVientiane City Center
🚶

Quai Fa Ngum

FREE

This riverside promenade comes alive in the late afternoon and evening. Locals gather here to exercise, enjoy the sunset over the Mekong River, and grab affordable snacks and drinks from numerous vendors.

streetVientiane City Center
🍜

Le Banneton

This charming French bakery and cafe is a beloved spot for both locals and expats seeking excellent coffee and delicious pastries. It's a quiet oasis for a relaxed breakfast or light lunch.

foodSihom
⚠️

1 area to be cautious about

Read our full safety guide for Vientiane

More Vientiane Guides

Full Vientiane guideAreas to avoid👩 Solo Female Travellers💑 Couples👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Families💻 Digital Nomads✨ Luxury Travellers🎉 Nightlife Seekers