Where to Stay in Vientiane
Cheapest areas, hostel districts, and budget tips
Quick Answer
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.
See full Vientiane neighbourhood guideTop 3 Areas to Stay in Vientiane
Most affordable areas with the best value accommodation
Sikhai Area (East of City Center)
A more residential and developing area with a local feel, offering a quieter escape.
Our top picks in Sikhai Area (East of City Center)
Old Quarter
A charming, historic area with French colonial architecture and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.
Our top picks in Old Quarter
Riverside (South of Setthathirath Road)
The bustling heart of Vientiane, offering a mix of tourist amenities and local life along the Mekong.
Our top picks in Riverside (South of Setthathirath Road)
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Neighbourhood Comparison for Backpackers
| Neighbourhood | Budget | Vibe | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
#1Sikhai Area (East of City Center) | Budget | A more residential and developing area with a local feel, offering a quieter escape. | digital nomadsbudget |
Old Quarter | Mid-range | A charming, historic area with French colonial architecture and a relaxed riverside atmosphere. | first-timerscouples |
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-timersfoodies |
Find budget-friendly hostels in Vientiane
Affordable stays in the best backpacker areas
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Tips for Backpackers in Vientiane
Book Hostels with Kitchens
Self-catering saves significant money in Vientiane. A hostel with a good kitchen can cut your food budget by half.
Walk Where Possible
Many city centres are walkable. Save transport money for longer journeys and use your feet for neighbourhood exploring.
Find Free Activities
Free walking tours, museum free days, parks, and markets are everywhere. Ask hostel staff for the best free experiences.
Carry a Water Bottle
A refillable bottle saves money and plastic. Many cities have free water fountains; check the local tap water safety first.
Find free walking tours in Vientiane
Budget-friendly ways to explore
Best Neighborhoods for Backpackers
Ranked by relevance for backpackers visiting Vientiane
Sikhai Area (East of City Center)
BudgetA more residential and developing area with a local feel, offering a quieter escape.
- +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
Old Quarter
Mid-rangeA charming, historic area with French colonial architecture and a relaxed riverside atmosphere.
- +Central location
- +Beautiful architecture
- +Good range of restaurants and cafes
- -Can get very hot and humid
- -Limited nightlife options
Riverside (South of Setthathirath Road)
Mid-rangeThe bustling heart of Vientiane, offering a mix of tourist amenities and local life along the Mekong.
- +Abundant dining and drinking options
- +Lively atmosphere
- +Convenient for tourist services
- -Can be noisy
- -Traffic congestion
Daily Budget (Budget)
LAK 300000/day
Hidden Gems in Vientiane
Lesser-known spots the locals love
Talat Sao Morning Market
FREEBeyond 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.
Quai Fa Ngum
FREEThis 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.
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.
Our Top 5 Favourite Tours in Vientiane
Hand-picked guided experiences you can book in advance on GetYourGuide.
Vientiane Walking Tour: Highlights & Hidden Gems
Discover Vientiane on foot with a local guide who knows every backstreet and story. You will cover the must-see landmarks and stumble upon places most visitors never find.
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Vientiane Food Tour: Street Food & Local Favourites
Eat your way through Vientiane with a local foodie as your guide. From bustling markets to tucked-away restaurants, taste the dishes the city is truly known for.
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Best of Vientiane: Skip-the-Line Top Attractions
Skip the queues and get straight into Vientiane's top attractions with pre-booked access. An expert guide brings each site to life with stories and context you would not get on your own.
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Day Trip from Vientiane: Scenic Excursion
Escape Vientiane for the day and explore the stunning surroundings. Transport, guide, and itinerary are all sorted so you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
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Vientiane Cultural Experience: History & Traditions
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with Vientiane's living culture. From hands-on workshops to historic neighbourhood walks, this is the side of the city most travellers miss.
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1 area to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for Vientiane
Backpackers in Vientiane: FAQ
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