Laos
The perfect 7 days itinerary
Laos, a landlocked country in Southeast Asia, is renowned for its mountainous terrain, French colonial architecture, hill tribe settlements, and Buddhist monasteries. The capital, Vientiane, is home to the That Luang monument, where a reliquary reportedly houses the Buddha's breastbone, plus the Patuxai war memorial and Talat Sao (Morning Market), a complex jammed with food, clothes, and craft stalls. The Mekong River runs through Laos, providing stunning landscapes and opportunities for river cruises. This 7-day itinerary aims to showcase the natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical significance of Laos.
What to do in Laos?
This 7 days itinerary is the perfect guide to the best things to see in Laos. It includes day-by-day activities, travel tips, and the top places to visit.
Day 1: Arrival in Vientiane
Morning and Afternoon
Arrive in Vientiane, the capital of Laos. After checking into your hotel, take some time to relax and acclimate to the new environment.
Evening
Begin your exploration with a visit to the Patuxai, a war monument reminiscent of the Arc de Triomphe. Stroll around the nearby Patuxai Park and enjoy the fountains and gardens. End your day with a traditional Laotian dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Historical and Cultural Vientiane
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the That Luang, the most important national monument in Laos. Explore the surrounding temples and learn about the significance of this sacred site.
Afternoon
Head to the COPE Visitor Centre to learn about the history of unexploded ordnance (UXO) in Laos and the efforts to help those affected. Afterward, visit the Wat Si Saket, the oldest temple in Vientiane, known for its cloister wall housing thousands of tiny Buddha images.
Evening
Take a leisurely walk along the Mekong River and enjoy the sunset. Visit the night market for some local shopping and street food.
Day 3: Vientiane to Vang Vieng
Morning
Depart from Vientiane and drive to Vang Vieng, a town known for its stunning limestone karst landscape. The drive takes approximately 4 hours.
Afternoon
Check into your hotel and then explore the Tham Chang Cave, which offers impressive stalactites and stalagmites as well as a beautiful view of the Nam Song River.
Evening
Relax by the river and enjoy a peaceful evening in this scenic town. Consider dining at one of the riverside restaurants.
Day 4: Adventure in Vang Vieng
Morning
Start your day with a hot air balloon ride over the stunning landscape of Vang Vieng. The views of the limestone karsts and the Nam Song River are breathtaking.
Afternoon
Go tubing or kayaking on the Nam Song River, a popular activity that offers both relaxation and adventure. Alternatively, you can explore the Blue Lagoon, a beautiful swimming hole with clear blue water.
Evening
Enjoy a laid-back evening in Vang Vieng. Visit the local night market for some souvenirs and street food.
Day 5: Vang Vieng to Luang Prabang
Morning
Depart from Vang Vieng and drive to Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage city known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant culture. The drive takes approximately 5-6 hours.
Afternoon
Check into your hotel and then visit the Royal Palace Museum to learn about the history of Laos and its royal family. Afterward, explore the nearby Wat Xieng Thong, one of the most important monasteries in Laos.
Evening
Climb Mount Phousi for a panoramic view of Luang Prabang and the surrounding area. Enjoy the sunset from the top before heading to the night market for dinner and shopping.
Day 6: Exploring Luang Prabang
Morning
Experience the traditional alms-giving ceremony at dawn, where monks collect food offerings from locals and tourists. Afterward, visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls, a multi-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools perfect for swimming.
Afternoon
Return to Luang Prabang and visit the Traditional Arts and Ethnology Centre to learn about the diverse ethnic groups in Laos. Then, take a stroll along the Mekong River and perhaps enjoy a river cruise.
Evening
Dine at one of Luang Prabang's many excellent restaurants, offering both Laotian and international cuisine. Consider trying Laap, a traditional Laotian dish made with minced meat, herbs, and spices.
Day 7: Departure from Luang Prabang
Morning
Spend your last morning in Luang Prabang visiting the Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Centre, where you can learn about traditional Laotian textiles and even try your hand at weaving.
Afternoon
Depending on your flight time, you can do some last-minute shopping or visit any sites you may have missed. Check out of your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.
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