Vientiane Citywalk: A Surprisingly Charming Itinerary

After bidding farewell to Luang Prabang and Vang Vieng via the China-Laos Railway, I arrived in Vientiane—Laos' laid-back capital. Despite mixed reviews online, I’m glad I gave it 2.5 days—it won me over! ✅ 2-Day Itinerary Day 1 (Walkable): 1️⃣ Pha That Luang (Golden Stupa) → 2️⃣ Patuxai (Victory Gate) → 3️⃣ Talat Sao Market → 4️⃣ That Dam (Black Stupa) → 5️⃣ Rue Bartholoni (colonial charm) → 6️⃣ Presidential Palace → 7️⃣ Mekong Riverside Night Market Day 2: 1️⃣ Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) (Half-day trip) → 2️⃣ French Quarter (cafés & bistros) 🏨 Stay Near the Presidential Palace: A chic area with French cafés, steps from the Mekong and night markets. 🚗 Transport 1️⃣ Train station to downtown: Bus #28 to Central Bus Station (then walk). 2️⃣ Local: Buses/tuk-tuks. For early trains, book taxis via hotels. 3️⃣ Buddha Park: ~30min from downtown (worth the trip!). 💡 Tips 🎟️ Tickets: Pha That Luang & Patuxai: 30,000 KIP (~¥10). Buddha Park: 60,000 KIP. 🍽️ Eat: French Quarter: Affordable, authentic Western food. Skip the night market for souvenirs (mostly Chinese imports)—shop in Luang Prabang instead! 🛍️ Talat Sao Market: Multi-floor bazaar for fabrics, handicrafts, and local snacks. 🌅 Buddha Park: Walk to the Mekong viewpoint—Thailand is just across the river! #LaosTravel #Vientiane #SlowTravel #HiddenGems