Things to do in Laos

Where to go in Laos, when to visit, and what a trip costs.

Places to visit in Laos

When flights to each destination are cheapest.

Luang Prabang: Fly in the low season, May through August (wet season), when fares and hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to the November-to-February peak; mid-week departures (Tuesday/Wednesday) also consistently save 10-15% over weekend flights on the connecting Bangkok route.

A day on the ground for one person travelling alone, before flights: somewhere to sleep, food, something to do and getting around.

Set your dates, budget and home airport on any destination below for a total that includes flights.

Stroll the UNESCO Old Town Peninsula Wander French-colonial shophouses and gilded wats with the Mekong on both sides, all at no cost.
Visit Wat Xieng Thong The finest temple in Laos glitters with golden mosaics and sits right at the tip of the peninsula.
Sunrise at the Mekong Riverside Watch fishermen cast nets as the mist burns off the river, a serene and completely free daily spectacle.
Explore the Pak Ou Caves by Local Boat Two riverside caves packed with thousands of Buddha images reached by a scenic Mekong boat ride.
Hike to Tat Sae Waterfall A quieter, cheaper alternative to Kuang Si with equally pretty pools and almost no crowds.

Dyen Sabai, Lao sausage platter with sticky rice and Beerlao Plates $3-6
Night Market Food Stalls (Sisavangvong Rd), All-you-can-fill buffet plate with Lao curries and noodles Plates $1-2
Bouang Café, Khao piak sen (Lao chicken noodle soup) and fresh baguette Plates $2-4