Top 5 Cities to Visit in Laos (2025 Complete Travel Guide)
Laos is one of the most underrated destinations in Southeast Asia with its unique mix of Buddhist temples, French colonial buildings, and pristine natural landscapes. Laos is slower, quieter, and more authentic compared to its neighbors. For travelers with cultural depth, Laos is the perfect destination as it has the right mix of adventure. Many ask which is the biggest city in Laos? which is the most beautiful city? and which places receive the most tourists? In this guide, I will take you through the five most important and culturally rich cities in Laos as well as practical travel tips and the best things to do in the cities.
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Things to Do in Vientiane
Vientiane is the capital and the largest city in Laos, with its metropolitan area hosting almost a million residents. Vientiane is located along the Mekong River, right by the border of Thailand, and it displays a charming blend of French colonial architecture and Buddhist spirituality.
Pha That Luang is a stunning golden stupa and is a huge landmark which represents Buddhism and Laotian identity. Another landmark is the Patuxai Monument which is likewise called the Arc de Triomphe of Laos and has stunning panoramic views from the top. For those interested in developing in culture, the COPE Visitor Centre gives inspiring insights into the history of the Vietnam War and the legacy of unexploded ordnance.
Vientiane is the sole capital city in the world that has calming attributes. There is also an International Airport that connects Vientiane to the rest of the world and the capital is the starting point for most International Travelers. Most of the authentic Lao street food can be found here, and visitors can experience delightful street food markets on the riverside. There is also plenty of rest and relaxation, some capital cities in Asia can be busy and overwhelming.
Things to Do in Luang Prabang
Most would consider this the most beautiful city in Laos, and this is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Luang Prabang is situated between the Mekong and Khan rivers and is renowned for its saffron-robed monks, serene and beautiful temples, and colonial-era structures.
The temples and colonial structures of this city, and the very famous, exceptional 16th-century temple, Wat Xieng Thong dominate the views.What really sets Luang Prabang apart is how it has preserved its way of life. You can find handwoven items in the local marketplace while the traditional Lao coffee shops provide a place to take a rest. Getting to Luang Prabang from Vientiane has been made a lot easier and quicker due to the recently opened high-speed railway. For those in search of cultural richness as well as unspoiled nature, Luang Prabang is truly the crown jewel of Laos.
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Activities in Vang Vieng Area
Vang Vieng has changed a lot over the years. Instead of just a destination for young backpackers looking for a party, it has become a place for outdoor activities. Vang Vieng is on the list of most visited places in Laos for nature lovers. It is surrounded by stunning limestone karsts, in addition to a great landscape of rivers, caves, and other natural settings. It is located about four hours to the north of Vientiane.
Visitors to Vang Vieng engage in tubing and kayaking on the Nam Song River. They also go hiking, swimming, and viewing the beautiful landscape in locations like the Nam Xay viewpoint, and the famous Blue Lagoon. For those who seek thrill, Vang Vieng offers a number of activities such as exploring the Tham Phu Kham caves, swimming in the Blue Lagoon, and riding hot air balloons.
Vang Vieng has eco-tourism accommodations lodges , some newly built boutique hotels, and there are no longer backpackers there. Even with the growth, Vang Vieng still has a rustic and beautiful natural world landscape, with small villages and rice paddies surrounded by the landscape. Vang Vieng is a place for any adventure lover, and one place that offers great natural beauty.
Things to Do in Pakse
Pakse is popular destination. South is Pakse, a river city, and vibrant, and a trade center. It is not the biggest city in Laos but is the ideal center to start your exploration of the Bolaven Plateau which is known for it’s coffee, waterfalls and villages of ethnic minorities.
Most travelers sign up for coffee farm tours after visiting the city and going to the Tad Fane waterfalls. Pakse is also home to the Wat Luang temple which is along the riverside. The city also has a market which appeals to travelers for southern Lao cuisine.
Pakse is also a start point for the fishing area of the Mekong river, Si Phan Don. In the area, the pace of life slows significantly. You can spot the rare Irrawaddy dolphins while boating, cycling from island to island and fishing. Travelers from Vientiane and Luang Prabang frequently stop in Pakse for the Laos remote natural landscapes and wonders.
Things to Do in Savannakhet
Located on half the distance from Vientiane and Pakse, Savannakhet is the second largest city in Laos. It’s often considered a tourist miss. However, it has a lovely colonial charm, relaxing river side, and important buddist sites.
That Ing Hang Stupa is a historical point of interest and holy pilgrimage location to Buddhist people of Laos. The city does feature a small museum dedicated to dinosaurs. This is a testament to the fact that the region has been the location of dinosaur fossils. Comparatively to Luang Prabang or Vang Vieng, Savannakhet is much less frequented and provides a more local experience, allowing Savannakhet to increase the potential of experiencing culture and interacting with locals.
In addition to this, Savannakhet is located along the East-West Economic Corridor which provides links to Thailand and Vietnam by road, making it an ideal location for travelers. Savannakhet is a city that offers a historical and trade-centered experience to Laos, while also allowing the exploration of the type of city that is considered off the beaten path.
Which is the biggest city in Laos?
Laos biggest city is Vientiane and it is also the political, economic and cultural cradle of the country.
What is the most beautiful city in Laos?
The city of Luang Prabang is considered the most beautiful city in Laos, with its temples, colonial architecture and beautiful nature.
Which city is the most visited in Laos?
The city that receives the most international visitors is Luang Prabang, then Vientiane and Vang Vieng.
Which cities should I prioritize in Laos?
The 5 top cities to visit in Laos are Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Vang Vieng, Pakse, and Savannakhet.
Where is the most beautiful part of Laos?
Laos boasts beautiful topography, but the most beautiful area is Northern Laos, especially the places near Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng, for its stunning mountains, rivers, and karst landscapes.
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