Vientiane Wattay Layover Guide (VTE)

What are you looking for in VTE?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Wattay International Airport (VTE) is an international airport located in Sikhottabong District, Vientiane Capital, Laos. It’s located about 5 km (3.1 miles) from downtown Vientiane. The airport first opened officially in 1999. Vientiane is the capital and largest city of Laos and is considered the political and economic heart of the country. It’s also known for its serene atmosphere, French colonial architecture, and vibrant Mekong riverside markets and historical temples.

Can you leave Vientiane Airport (VTE) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You can leave Vientiane Airport during a short layover, but you must clear immigration with a valid Laos visa. Most travelers obtain a tourist visa on arrival or apply online for an eVisa. Visas often allow 30-day stays and require a passport valid for six months. (more info)

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Vientiane: Half-Day City Tour with Patuxai and Buddha Park

Explore Vientiane’s highlights on a 3.5-hour tour visiting Patuxai Monument, That Luang Stupa, and the fascinating Buddha Park. This guided small-group experience includes pickup, a professional English-speaking guide, and seamless private transportation. Perfect for layovers, you’ll enjoy cultural insights and memorable photo stops at Laos’s iconic landmarks with expert commentary. » book this tour

Half-Day Exploring the Charms of Vientiane and Hotel Pickup

Discover Vientiane’s spiritual and cultural heritage on a half-day tour covering Wat Sisaket, Wat Prakeo, That Luang Stupa, and Patuxay Monument. Includes hotel pickup and COPE Visitor Centre visit to learn about the impact of UXO in Laos. Gain historical context and shop for local handicrafts at Talat Sao market. » book this tour

Vientiane: Art, Culture, & Inspiration Guided Half-Day Tour

Immerse yourself in Vientiane’s vibrant art scene on a guided half-day tour. Begin at the COPE Visitor Centre, then explore traditional Lao weaving at the Textile Museum and modern craftsmanship at Caruso Creations Factory. Includes hotel pickup, professional guidance, and unique cultural interactions showcasing local artistry and immersive authentic experiences. » book this tour

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

  • Pha That Luang Vientiane’s most sacred monument, this gold-covered Buddhist stupa symbolizes Lao sovereignty. Explore its ornate terraces, learn about traditions, photograph its gleaming spire against the skyline, and witness local prayer rituals. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: By taxi (25 min) or bus (45 min))
  • Patuxai Victory Monument Modeled after Paris’s Arc de Triomphe, this impressive Victory Gate honors those who fought for independence. Climb to the rooftop terrace for panoramic city views framed by ornate Lao motifs. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: By taxi (20 min) or bus (40 min))
  • Wat Si Saket Dating to 1818, St. Saket temple features cloister walls lined with thousands of tiny Buddha statues and murals depicting Buddhist teachings. Wander its serene courtyard and admire ornate historic architecture. (Time required: 45 minutes / Airport to here: By taxi (30 min) or bus (50 min))
  • Haw Phra Kaew Once home to the Emerald Buddha, this 16th-century temple now serves as a museum of religious art, showcasing ancient sculptures, ritual objects, and Lao cultural heritage in a tranquil setting. (Time required: 45 minutes / Airport to here: By taxi (25 min) or bus (40 min))
  • Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) Located 25 km southeast of the city, this sculpture garden features over 200 giant concrete Buddhist and Hindu figures, including a reclining Buddha. Ideal for photography, peaceful strolls and cultural exploration. (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: By taxi (40 min) or tuk-tuk (50 min))
  • COPE Visitor Centre Interactive museum raising awareness about Laos’s UXO legacy. Explore heartbreaking exhibits on landmine survivors’ stories, learn about rehabilitation programs, and support local efforts to clear unexploded ordnance through guided tours. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: By taxi (20 min) or bus (45 min))
  • Mekong Riverside Park Riverfront promenade lined with gardens and sculptures. Enjoy sunset views over the Mekong River, sample street food, or relax on benches while watching local fishermen during a leisurely evening stroll. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: By taxi (15 min) or bus (40 min))
  • Morning Market (Talat Sao) Bustling market selling fresh produce, textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Experience local commerce, sample tropical fruits, and shop for silk scarves, jewelry, and traditional Lao snacks in a lively, authentic atmosphere. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: By taxi (15 min) or bus (45 min))

Things to Do in Vientiane Airport (VTE)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Vientiane Airport offers the Plaza Premium Lounge in the international departure area, providing comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, flight information displays, and private rest zones. Access is available through lounge membership programs or pay-per-use. It’s an ideal spot for relaxation, work, or light refreshments before boarding comfortably. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Several hotels are located within a short drive of Vientiane Airport, including Ibis Vientiane Nam Phu, Lao Plaza Hotel, and Vientiane Landmark Hotel. They provide airport shuttle services, air-conditioned rooms, dining options, and fitness facilities. Ideal for overnight stays, these hotels offer convenient early check-in or late checkout on request. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Rest areas at Vientiane Airport are limited. Passengers can find benches and seating in both domestic and international terminals. There are no dedicated sleeping pods or rest zones. Travelers seeking a quick nap often use their own travel pillows. Quiet periods occur after midnight, offering relatively peaceful terminal conditions overnight.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Vientiane Airport for 30 minutes per session. After the complimentary period, users can purchase extended access passes. The network name is typically ‘Wattay Airport Free WiFi’. Signal strength is strongest in departure halls and lounges but may weaken near boarding gates and restrooms, peak hours.

SIM/eSIM Card: SIM and eSIM cards from Lao Telecom, Unitel, and ETL are available at airport kiosks in the arrivals hall. They offer prepaid data, voice, SMS packages with competitive rates. Activation takes a few minutes and staff can assist with setup. eSIM profiles require a compatible smartphone and QR code scan. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Metered taxis and tuk-tuks are available outside the arrivals terminal at Vientiane Airport. Rates are unregulated for tuk-tuks, while taxis use meters but may charge airport surcharges. Fares to the city center range from USD 5 to 8. Drivers expect cash payment in kip or dollars; negotiate rates in advance.

Train: There is currently no train connection to Vientiane Airport. Laos State Railway operates services between Vientiane and other provinces, but the nearest station is in the city center. Passengers must rely on road transport for airport transfers. Future airport rail links are planned under national major rail infrastructure development projects. (more info)

Bus: An airport shuttle bus operates between Vientiane Airport and city center. Services run daily from early morning until evening, departing every 30 to 60 minutes. Tickets cost approximately LAK 10,000. Buses board at the designated stop outside Arrivals. Luggage space is available but often limited on peak services, including weekends. (more info)

Shuttle: Several hotels and tour operators offer private shuttle services from Vientiane Airport to downtown hotels. Pre-booking is recommended to secure seats and guaranteed pickup times. Rates vary by provider but start at approximately USD 10 per person. Shuttles typically use air-conditioned vans and accommodate luggage. Payment is made in advance.

Car rentals: Major international and local car rental companies operate at Vientiane Airport, including Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and local providers. Rental desks are located in the arrivals hall. Options include economy cars, SUVs, and vans with manual or automatic transmissions. Drivers must present an international driving permit, passport, and credit card deposits. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Short-term and long-term parking are available at Vientiane Airport. The outdoor lot adjacent to the terminal offers covered spaces. Rates start at LAK 5,000 per hour, with daily tariffs around LAK 50,000. Payment is made at automated booths with cash or card. Disabled spaces and public EV charging are limited.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There is no official luggage storage or locker facility inside Vientiane Airport. However, some airport shops and staffed information counters can hold small bags. For secure storage, travelers are advised to use services at downtown hotels or LUX Travel’s luggage locker at Wattay City Center Mall, a ten-minute drive away. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Vientiane Airport (VTE) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks