Laos 2 Day Itinerary
Laos 2-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Explore Vientiane
Morning:
- Start your day with a traditional Lao breakfast at a local café. Try the famous Bahn Khao Niew, sticky rice with mango.
- Visit Wat Sisaket, one of the oldest temples in Vientiane, known for its unique architecture and thousands of Buddha statues.
- Head to the nearby Haw Phra Kaew (Temple of the Emerald Buddha), housing Laos’ most important religious artifacts.
Afternoon:
- Explore Patuxay Monument, also known as Vientiane’s Arc de Triomphe. Climb to the top for a panoramic view of the city.
- Visit That Luang Stupa, a sacred national monument and symbol of Laos, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
- Take a stroll along Rue Samsenthai (Sam lake Road), lined with bars, restaurants, and shops.
Evening:
- Experience the vibrant nightlife at Lao Kitchen & Bar, a popular restaurant serving delicious traditional Lao dishes.
- Visit Bourbon Street Nightclub, Vientiane’s most famous club.
Things to Know:
- Laos uses the Lao Kip as currency, and USD is widely accepted in major cities.
- Tuk tuks and taxis are the primary means of transportation within the city.
- The dress code for temples requires long pants and covered shoulders for men and women.
- Electricity plugs use Type A and C outlets (two flat prongs or one flat prong with one round).
Day 2: Discover Luang Prabang
Morning:
- Fly to Luang Prabang from Vientiane.
- Visit the stunning Wat Xieng Thong, known as the most beautiful monastery in Laos, with its unique architectural style.
- Climb 328 steps up Phousi Mountain for a breathtaking view of Luang Prabang and the Mekong River.
Afternoon:
- Explore Tak Bat, the daily morning alms giving ceremony of the monks, if you are visiting in the early morning (around 6 AM).
- Visit the Royal Palace Museum to learn about Laos’ royal family history and artifacts.
- Relax at Kuang Si Waterfalls, enjoy a swim in the turquoise pools and visit the nearby bear sanctuary.
Evening:
- Take a traditional Lao boat trip along the Mekong River to see the beautiful sunset and the sacred Pak Ou Caves filled with thousands of Buddha statues.
- Enjoy dinner at Tamarind, one of Luang Prabang’s best restaurants offering delicious traditional Lao cuisine.
Visa Requirements:
- Citizens from 46 countries, including the US, UK, Canada, and Australia, can obtain a 30-day visa waiver upon arrival. Check if your country is eligible at https://laos.embassyhomepage.com/english/visa/visasummary.html
- If you need a visa, apply online before your trip at http://www.laoembassyusa.org/ for US citizens or check the embassy website for citizens of other countries.
Transportation:
- Domestic flights are operated by Lao Airlines and Vietnam Airlines, with multiple daily flights between Vientiane and Luang Prabang.
- Taxis and tuk tuks are the most common means of transportation within cities. For longer distances, consider hiring a car or booking a guided tour.