Where to stay in Laos

Accommodation

Neighbourhoods that work well for your first nights

Vientiane:

• Chanthabuly / Mekong riverfront (Quai Fa Ngum): The ideal spot for a first arrival - direct access to the night market, restaurants and historic sites, and easy to reach from the airport. Price bracket: Mid to luxury (600,000–2,500,000 LAK per night).
• Ban Anou / Ban Haysoke: Quieter streets within walking distance of the centre, popular with independent travellers. Price bracket: Budget to mid (200,000–500,000 LAK per night).

Luang Prabang:

• Historic centre (Old Town - the peninsula): Around Sisavangvong Road. Excellent access to the night market, temples and Mount Phousi. Price bracket: Upper-end boutique (1,000,000–5,000,000 LAK per night).
• Nam Khan river area: Just across the bridge from the historic core, offering a quieter setting. Price bracket: Mid-range (500,000–1,200,000 LAK per night).

What check-in usually involves

Reception will need your original passport to scan, for the mandatory report to the immigration authorities. Hotels frequently take a refundable cash deposit - most often 100,000 to 200,000 LAK, or USD 10–20 - against keys or an access card. Standard check-in is from 14:00, check-out by 12:00.