Top 8 Shopping Places in Vientiane

The shopping places in Vientiane highlight the traditional craftsmanship of ethnic groups in Laos. So Vientiane is an excellent destination for tourists who are interested in textiles, arts, handicrafts, homeware, and jewelry. The following are the top 8 shopping places in Vientiane that we recommended, where you could find fresh produce and cheap street food, as well as a handful of souvenir stalls close to the Mekong River.

1. Morning Market

The morning market in Vientiane is very similar to those small commodity markets. It's divided into old and new markets. The new market is a three-story shopping mall, with a comfortable shopping environment. The old one is a more traditional market with two floors. The main business of the ground floor is all-embracing, which are not only the handmade souvenirs but also the daily necessities for locals. The second floor mainly deals in gold vessels, jewelry, etc. Most of the goods here are made in China, and if you would like to buy some souvenirs, it's acceptable to bargain appropriately.


 

Location: Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane

2. Talat Sao Shopping Mall

Talat Sao is not only a shopping mall (with air-conditioning) but also a morning market in the city center. It's the largest supermarket in Laos as well, with all the daily necessities, including textiles, clothes, jewelry, tableware, cosmetics, beddings, hardware and watches, as well as home appliances digital products, etc. Sometimes it might be crowded with a lot of people, so please go there at leisure time if possible.
 

Location: Lane Xang Avenue, Vientiane 0100, Laos

3. Mixay Boutique

Mixay is an upscale boutique with local characteristics in Vientiane. There are silk garments from the Xieng Khuang Province, and some household items designed by the Hmong people of Laos. The shopping environment here is comfortable, and the service is professional. These handicrafts are easier to bring back home as gifts.


 

Location: 53-55 Rue Nokeokoummane | Ban Mixay, Vientiane, Laos

4. Camacrafts

Camacrafts is a handicraft workshop mainly sells silk garments, sheets, cushions that are dip-dyed with natural pigments. The textiles here are well-designed and colorful; the craft is good, and the price is not high, so it's a smart choice to purchase anything you like. When traveling in Vientiane, you won't regret buying a few local traditional costumes with bright colors, good quality and low prices.
 

Location: Th Nokeo Khumman City Centre

5. Vientiane Night Market

Explore the night market in Vientiane is one of the most interesting things to do in Laos. The market is located near the Mekong River and only opens in the evening (from 6:00 pm – 9:30 pm). You could find all kinds of small wares in each stall, which will make you impressed and surprised. Near the river are some bars and restaurants. Go and get some food or drinks at the bar and enjoy the views around the Mekong River, which will bring you a different experience and exotic atmosphere.

Location: Mekong Riverfront, Vientiane, Laos

6. Carol Cassidy's Lao Textiles

Carol Cassidy's Lao Textiles is not only a workshop but also a gallery of traditional Laotian textiles. It mainly sells high-end original textile items. The scarves and home décor with intricate patterns and motifs are produced by using traditional techniques. All of the textiles are 100% handwoven silk, so the prices are certainly rather higher compared to most shops in Vientiane. It's amazing and worthy to walk around here and buy some textiles that attracted you.

Location: 84-86 Th Nokeo Khumman

7. Vangtong Evening Food Market

The Vangthong Evening Food Market attracts locals and tourists who enjoy authentic Laotian food at affordable prices. After sunset, the market gradually becomes a hive of activity with dozens of stalls preparing traditional dishes such as Bla Kan Sung (grilled fish), Sai Oua (Laotian sausage), and Bet Yang (roasted duck). You will know more about the local food and Laotian lifestyle by walking through Vangthong Evening Food Market.

Location: Rue Phai Nam, Vientiane, Laos

8. The Little House Vientiane

The Little House Vientiane is a special shopping place because it's among roastery, café and souvenir shop near Wat Si Muang. This charming venue roasts (and sells) coffee sourced from local farms on the Bolevan Plateau, particularly in Paksong. The shelves inside this shop are displaying handmade silk, embroidered bags, placemats, and pillow covers. Profits go straight to the indigenous tribes who created these items, so it's worthy of picking up a few as souvenirs for your friends.

Location: Ban Si Meuang, Vientiane, Laos