Queer travel expert Jack Kenworthy turns 250+ city adventures into your guide for safe, vibrant, and inclusively fabulous global journeys.
Vientiane is a popular destination for gay tourists to Laos because it is well-known for its exceptionally queer-friendly locals and one of the few gay bars in the country. This makes it a must-see if you want to get the complete gay experience while taking a tour of this unique Asian territory.
However, you won’t just find a small queer community but many other amazing attractions that make Laos a tourist hotspot. Those who come to Laos’ Capital will be blown away by the cityscape that can be described as a mixture of French and Buddhist architecture without a skyscraper in sight.
It is a man-made natural wonder with beautiful historic temples, countless green spaces and parks, picturesque ponds and water features, and much more! You can visit endless historical landmarks and museums or find the heart of excellent Laos cuisine in their many fresh food markets.
However, if this isn’t selling you, they have the Mekong River at their doorstep, allowing for some great bankside attractions and an option to go on a river cruise admiring the banks of Laos to the east and Thailand. Overall, Vientiane is the perfect base for accessing other parts of Laos.
For example, those wanting a wilderness adventure can step outside her city walls to look out for a wild tiger or leopard as they take in the wonders of rural Laos. If you want to visit Laos but are still figuring out where to start, Vientiane is a little something for everyone.
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Attractions in Gay Vientiane, Laos
Welcome to Gay Vientiane, darling! While the city may not be the most welcoming to the queer community, fear not! There are still plenty of fabulous things for you to do while keeping things low-key. First and foremost, you must visit some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions, dahling!
Take in history and culture by visiting museums, art galleries, and historical monuments. And don’t forget to marvel at the stunning architecture, explore parks and gardens, and indulge in the local cuisine. But that’s not all, darling! Gay or straight, there’s always something to do in Gay Vientiane.
Immerse yourself in the local culture by attending cultural events like festivals, concerts, and shows. Trust us; there’s always something fun and exciting happening in this fabulous city. Remember, discretion is key in a city that’s not always welcoming to our fabulous community. So, keep it lowkey and enjoy all the wonderful things Gay Vientiane has to offer!
Pha That Luang Vientiane
In the center of Vientiane is this highly distinctive golden-covered Buddhist stupa built in 1566. This towering structure is a must-visit for anyone visiting the city as it is the most recognizable attraction in the capital and one of the most important in Laos.
Locals look at this building with pride for their country, so by paying a visit, you will feel closer to the country you visit. You can experience this place by taking photos from the outside or taking a tour through its interior to experience the spiritual side of Laos.
Vientiane Cuisine & Culture: The Hungry Tuk Tuk
For an eating experience that is a little different, you can take a tour of Vientiane Cuisine and culture with The Hungry Tuk Tuk. You will ride in the back of a little bike taxi with the tour guide that will take you to all the top restaurants, markets and other eating destinations throughout the capital.
You will get to taste traditional food in Laos and some good ideas to come back for seconds when you find yourself starved on walkabouts!
Patuxay
Built as a war memorial for the Laos soldiers that died during World War Two and the War of Indivepence of 1949, you can experience the momentous Victory Gate of Patuxay. It rings French inspirations like the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, but its own Laos marvel is a sight.
You can enjoy the tranquil scenery of a lake and tall branching trees that add to the whole atmosphere of the piece. It is not just a war memorial; it is a work of art and is an excellent place for photos or paying respect to the lives lost in recent conflicts.
Full Day from Vientiane: Lao Conservation Trust for Wildlife
For a full day of fun out of Vientiane with a chance to get up close and personal with the rich wildlife in Laos, you can visit the Lao Conversation Trust for Wildlife. Taking just an hour’s drive from the capital inland to the reserve, you will be glad you made this excursion to take in the natural wonders of the journey there and on arrival.
Here you will be treated to a guided tour of their expansive wildlife and learn about the conversation efforts by the trust to ensure the endangered species of Laos remain protected. You can expect to see animals here, including crocodiles, tigers and bears.
Wat Si Saket
Built-in 1818 by King Anouvong, this Bhuddist is a sacred building made in a modern Bhuddist architectural style with an outside terrace, columns and a five-tiered roof. It was made famous because it houses the Emerald Buddha, a sacred picture interwoven with precious stones depicting a meditating Buddha.
Today the image is now kept in the Grand Palace in Bangkok. However, visitors can still enjoy a restored temple with incredible internal decor features and a quaint museum showcasing ancient Buddhist art.
Vientiane to Vang Vieng Private Tour
A special tour from Vientiane is a private guided trip to Vang Vieng, a small town to the north of the capital with exceptional natural sights. Here you can experience the rural side of Laos as you travel by minivan and learn about the history and culture of the region from your tour guide.
On arrival, you can walk through Vang Vieng before being taken to the nearby natural rock formations the town is built around to explore some impressive limestone caves. You can find basque in optional activities like a zipline, swimming and kayaking at the nearby lagoon and watch the sunset before you get driven back to Vientiane.
Wat Si Muang
Another incredible Bhuddist temple is Wai Si Muang, constructed in 1563 by the former Lan Xang Kingdom in a traditional Bhuddist style. You will notice the statue standing outside the front of this long two-tiered roof structure depicting the effigy of Sisavang Vong, one of the last kings of Laos. You can head indoors once paying respect to the outdoor shrines and other statues around the gardens.
Inside, you may be met by a monk offering blessings to visitors in the first room, then making your way into the rear room, you will find the altar with statues and places to dedicate offerings. If you are spiritual or Buddhist, you could bring flowers or coins to engage fully with this sacred place.
Ho Phra Keo Museum
The Ho Phra Keo Museum is a top history lesson housed within an almost five-hundred-year-old former Buddhist temple. Here you can explore a wonderful space transformed into an engaging exhibit hall with various artifacts, from golden statues and the gilded throne for the Emerald Buddha to bronze frog drums and inscribed palm leaves.
You can expect to find something to enrich your cultural experience while staying in Laos, and they even have a garden with just as many wonders to uncover. All of these factors make this one of the best Museums in Vientiane.
Buddha Park (Wat Xieng Khouane Luang)
Located just 25 kilometers north of Vientiane is a sculptural park you can’t miss out on, and this is none other than Buddha Park. Here you can wander through a rich collection of outdoor Buddha and Hindu sculptures collected together since 1958 as a sacred space for a Hindu-Buddist Priest-Shaman.
This integration of the two prevalent religions in the country makes it a unique blend of beliefs and styles. All the statues are made of concrete and are designed in unique and sometimes strange ways, making it a worthwhile stop on the tour of Laos.
Gay-Friendly & Gay Hotels in Vientiane, Laos
Oh, honey, let me tell you about being fabulous and feeling welcome at these hotels in Vientiane! Don’t worry about other hotels that might not be as accepting; these gems are committed to being LGBTQ+ friendly and ensuring all guests feel like they belong.
Being gay-friendly isn’t just about waving a rainbow flag or using the right pronouns; it’s about creating a safe and inclusive space for all guests. From non-discrimination policies to providing resources for LGBTQ+ travelers, these hotels go above and beyond to ensure you feel welcomed and supported. And honey, they don’t stop there!
Some of these gay-friendly accommodations have extra amenities and literature about local LGBTQ+ events and resources. Plus, they might even be located in an area known for being LGBTQ+ friendly. Now, let me tell you about these fabulous hotels in Vientiane.
While there aren’t any specifically gay hotels or resorts, these are the crème de la crème of gay-friendly accommodations. And if these don’t tickle your fancy, don’t worry; there are hundreds of other options in Vientiane to fit your budget and needs. So pack your bags, put on your most fabulous outfit, and get ready to feel welcome and accepted at these gay-friendly hotels in Vientiane!
Crowne Plaza Vientiane, an IHG Hotel ☆☆☆☆☆
We begin an exclusive tour of the best hotels in Vientiane with the five-star big shot, the Crowne Plaza Vientiane. Everyone who stays here will adore that it resides right up against the Mekong River, with exceptional views all around the city and waterway from your hotel suite.
However, it isn’t just her natural assets of being close to the town for easy visiting access that has earned all of these stars, and the quality shared facilities make guests feel like royalty.
You can begin your day with a bite of breakfast from their on-site restaurants (of which there are five to choose from) before you can prepare yourself for the day with a walk around the gardens or a quick hit at the gym. If you find yourself returning around mealtime, regardless of the time, you can get a feed and dine in luxury at their spacious dining facilities.
Then relax in the afternoon or evening at their pool or sauna services. Your room is also catered to the height of comfort with the best bedding, the best ensuite, and the best in basic hotel amenities, with the hights being the deep baths, the towering city views, and the option to pay extra for a classy apartment in the heart of Vientiane.
Get ready to indulge in the luxurious Somerset Vientiane, with the first of two four-star hotels in the heart of Laos’ capital city you will adore. From jaw-dropping river views to hassle-free access to top tourist spots like the Lao National Museum, this private apartment in a top-notch hotel has it all. But wait, it gets even better.
No need to worry about breakfast as you can quickly pay a little extra to have it served every day of your stay. Plus, you don’t have to venture out for other meals either; your private pad has a fully equipped kitchen!
This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture by heading out to the markets to seek fresh ingredients for traditional Lao dishes. Then, while you’re whipping up a storm in the kitchen, take a load off on the plush couch and catch up on your favorite shows. Or, if you’re on a working vacation, take advantage of the sleek dining table and knock out some tasks while you wait for dinner to cook.
If you’re looking for some R&R outside your room, the hotel’s shared pool, hot tub, and outdoor terrace sitting area are all available. And who knows, you may even hit the 24-hour gym before calling it a night. Overall, you will have an excellent getaway hotel that combines the comforts of home with the opulence of luxury.
For the gay tourist on a budget, you can’t go wrong with the three-and-a-half-star Phonethip Plaza Hotel in the city center of Vientiane. You can expect a cozy room with all you could ever want in an essential hotel experience and then some.
However, the complimentary traditional Laos breakfast is one of the best parts of staying here. In addition, this on-site restaurant has a varied menu, a seasonal swimming pool, and an outside sitting area. You will also be glad to know she is within walking distance of key attractions like Wat Si Muang, so getting around without a car is a walk in the park.
Le Thatluang d’oR Boutique Hotel ☆☆☆☆
Heading inland into the heart of Vientiane, you will find the exquisite Le Thatluang d’Or Boutique Hotel painted in a modern French facade with an exceptional five-star experience on the inside. The private dwellings are spacious and modern apartments with all you could want in a hotel space, including the highlighted benefits of the private balconies with seating, great views and 24-hour room service.
Then moving out of your cozy space into the shared facilities of the hotel, you will find menu choices for their restaurant divine, the full-spa service an incredible experience, and the pool with poolside bar the cherry on top of a cake of luxury.
However, if it couldn’t get any better than all of this, it does with the gym and free bike hire that makes keeping fit on holiday a breeze.
Gay Nightlife In Vientiane, Laos
The nightlife in Vientiane is lively and loud, with plenty of room and queer-friendly spaces for gay tourists to feel right at home. However, remember there is a nationwide curfew that all bars and night venues close at 11:30 PM. So to make the most of the complete night experience, we recommend starting early and maximizing your time to its fullest!
Darling, let’s talk about exploring the queer nightlife in Gay Vientiane, shall we? It’s true this city might not be the most welcoming to our fabulous community but fear not! Being gay is perfectly legal here; remember to err on the side of caution when outside of queer-friendly spaces.
But let’s focus on the fun, shall we? Exploring gay nightlife can be one of the most thrilling and enriching experiences while on the go. From dancing up a storm at a gay club to sipping cocktails and rubbing elbows with the locals at a gay-friendly bar, you’ll have a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture and make memories that will last a lifetime.
And darling, we’ve got you covered with the best gay and gay-friendly spots in town. So don’t be shy; step out of your comfort zone and explore the queer nightlife in Gay Vientiane. Trust us; it’ll be worth it!
Gay Bars In Vientiane, Laos
The first stop in any gay tour of Vientiane, let alone the whole of Laos, is the only gay bar in the country, CCC Cafe. Here you will find the capital of the gay community and where you are most likely anywhere else going to find people to make memorable connections with.
Just remember the language barrier, which could help to learn some basic Lao. You will make quick friends by showing your willingness to learn their language!
However, besides this being a gay bar, locals come here for the fantastic cocktails and reasonably priced local beer. So this provides you with a stage to taste a pallet of local drinks and experience how Laos parties come sundown.
You can enjoy these stunning views on their outside terrace and then head indoors to the warm embrace of good music of various genres. You may even find their upstairs stage open on weekends, where they regularly host cabaret shows! With so much to see, taste and experience in the only gay bar in Laos, you are guaranteed to have a blast.
Gay-Friendly Nightlife Attractions In Vientiane, Laos
Club Dplus is a popular nightclub with an expansive dancehall and stage to ensure every night is a party on its own. They host DJs and live performances most nights and are at their loudest and most alive on the weekends.
However, if you come during the quieter hours, you can still find a place to socialize and enjoy a drink in a cozy seating area. Even better is the themed dance nights, where you can dolly up in your best suit or dress for a chic night or your best horrific costume for Halloween, so things are always kept fresh.
Located close to the Mekong River, the Samio Bar is a sports bar with fun ways to spend an evening enjoying a drink. You can select your ale or wine of choice for the evening, and if fortune shines on you, you may soon find yourself challenging a friend to a game of pool, darts and football table.
These activities fill your whole evening if you are traveling with someone and want a laid-back pub experience with a couple of activities to break up the usual drink-and-dine. The bar also has screens showing sports events; it can get its busiest during world cup mounts.
Romeo pays homage to one of the greatest love stories in British Literature. However, a night at this nightclub doesn’t even in tragedy, but a love story in itself where you get that incredible night out you had your heart set on. Inside this expansive venue, you can expect to find a ginormous dance hall with a stage and screens.
You won’t just encounter a whole dancing experience but live music catering to those that love Techno, EDM, and hip-hop dance.
However, when it comes to the drinking experience, they also have you covered with a beer pavilion to give you a great drink, a cozy place to sit and chill, and food on the menu for those who get peckish on the nighttime prowl. Overall, you have a little slice of everything for a great night in Vientiane.
A top culinary destination in Vientiane that hosts delicious traditional food is the Samyek Pakpaspack Restaurant. Visitors swear by their food, blessed by the touch of the Mekong River that runs by the restaurant, with classic Lao food like papaya salad and noodles.
You can complement your meals with amazing views of the river, hearty local drinks, and traditional Lao music. This is a perfect dining place, regardless of the time. However, take advantage of the quieter daytime hours if you want a tranquil eating experience, as the evening is when it comes louder.
Vientiane Night Market
A nightlife experience in Vientiane that is a little different is the Vientiane Night Market, an evening market open from 6 pm to 9:30 pm on Quai Fa Ngum Street along the bank of the Mekong River. Here you can experience beautiful stalls under cover of the night selling various products, from food goods to hand-made objects perfect for gifts or souvenirs of your trip to Laos.
So if you want a painting or a Buddha statue, they have that! If you want some new clothes or jewelry, they also have that! And finally, if you want a nibble while wandering, they have many local foods for sale to fulfill those needs. So for a great shopping experience where you directly give back to locals, this is it.
You most certainly be dancing in Moonlight Lounge & Bar with their cozy, laidback drinking establishment. Inside is a traditional wooden bar dipped in modern strobe lights and minimal decoration, adding to a soft twilight atmosphere that represents its name!
Here you will be treated to local drinks, including familiar names outside of Laos if you are one for trying something new. However, regardless of the range, you will feel right at home with their friendly staff, lounge and easy-listening tunes.
Cruising & Gay Saunas In Vientiane, Laos
The gay cruising scene in Vientiane is not very active compared to other parts of Asia or around the world, and even if you find someone at the Lao Cafe, don’t expect to come to Laos and find a loud and thriving scene for such activities. Laos is a conservative and private country like other parts of Asia.
Even if being gay is legal and accepted, most locals practice it out of public perception. It is still worth using the usual dating apps to connect with those traveling like yourself or who live in Vientiane to organize safe meetings; however, don’t expect those avenues to be full-to-the-brim with options.
When exploring Gay Vientiane, there’s more to life than cocktails and beers. One aspect of the gay scene that many of us queens love are checking out the local gay saunas and cruising clubs.
Granted, Vientiane isn’t quite as wild as Amsterdam, Barcelona, or Berlin, but these steamy venues still offer the perfect opportunity to meet new people, socialize, and engage in some hot and heavy action without swiping left or right. However, remember that these venues can differ in terms of vibe, patrons, and rules, so it’s a good idea to be informed before you dive in.
Gay saunas, sex clubs, and cruising have long been popular ways for queer men to meet and engage in sexual activity, particularly in countries where same-sex activity is not widely accepted or may even be illegal. In these places, gay saunas and cruising clubs provide a safe and discreet environment for queer men to explore their sexuality and connect with like-minded individuals.
Despite the rise of gay dating apps, many queer men still prefer the anonymity and physical connection that can be found in these spaces – so somewhat counter-intuitively, you might have a hotter experience here than you would at home.
We recommend checking out our guide to cruising for first-timers before you get started, which should give you the lowdown, and always practice safe sex. Keep in mind that local laws and customs regarding gay venues and sexual activity should always be respected. With some forethought and an open mind, visiting gay saunas and cruising clubs can be a thrilling and steamy part of your gay Vientiane adventure.
Gay Map Of Vientiane
Finding it hard to envisage where everything is in Vientiane? Hopefully, this queer-centric map helps where we have marked all the bars, clubs, parties, hotels, saunas, massages, and more will help you stay in the spot best suited to you!