Luang Prabang, the cultural center in northern Laos, blew me away. Situated on the mighty Mekong River, this town is a patchwork quilt of beautiful nature, fresh food, and artisan shops. Laos has put effort to make this town BEAUTIFUL and classy. My guide to Luang Prabang may be a little biased because it holds such a special place in my heart.
Surprisingly, the center of the city almost feels like Europe, with tables set up in the street to people-watch while you slowly drink a coffee. The best part of my visit was wandering around the stunning alleyways, peeking in artisan shops and taking in the vibes.
Not only is Luang Prabang reminiscent of the ancient Lanna kingdom with its beautiful brown traditional houses against green palm trees, but also in its influence of the French rule — as noted by the laissez faire cafes & best buttery croissant I’ve had in Southeast Asia.
In this unique blend of Lanna and French influence, Luang Prabang is a unique town blooming with beauty and culture.
I’ve been to Luang Prabang twice, once in June and once in December. Each time I stayed for 4-5 days. It sounds like a long time but there’s so many spots to relax to get the full Laotian experience. Obviously December had the better weather (it was even cold at night which felt amazing to me!)
I flew in directly from Bangkok because I didn’t want to take the slow boat from Thailand. The flight from Bkk was super easy and painless, though a bit expensive so book early.
Download the ‘Loca’ app, it’s similar to Grab or Uber. Lao accepts kip, baht, and USD interestingly enough. And there’s plenty of ATMs around town.
US citizens can get a visa on arrival, which costs 2,000 baht or $50. Make sure you have either of these cash options with you.
I would highly highly recommend visiting this town if you’re in the region. When I was there for Christmas in 2023, it was alive with visitors. There are many handmade artisan shops, DELICIOUS restaurants with farm-to-table food, and of course the iconic Kuang Si waterfalls.
Where Should I Stay in Luang Prabang?
You absolutely must stay with my boy Andy at the Mali House in the center of Luang Prabang. Andy is an American who made me feel at home in his beautiful traditional Lanna style house that he shares with his Lao wife and daughter. I loved his place so much I came back the second time I visited LP!
It’s also right in the center of the local market, so you truly get the full experience. It’s around ~$30 / night.
He took me and my boyfriend out for Christmas Eve dinner with his family and staff at a yummy local spot (mentioned later in this article). I felt so welcomed and held, especially as I was really missing my family on Christmas.
What Should I Do in Luang Prabang?
Obviously you must visit the Kuang Si Waterfalls ~45 minutes away from the center of town. It’s the most beautiful natural waterfall complex I’ve ever seen. The first time I went in June I was able to swim in the healing waters. A must-see! Go early right as it opens, before all the tourists swarm.
My friend and I drove motorbikes here no problem, but you can also take a Tuk Tuk or taxi.
An unexpected joy was visiting the Ock Pop Tok Silk Road Cafe a little outside of town. They have a Living Crafts Center where local women weave in ethical practices to support themselves. I believe it’s a nonprofit, and the grounds are absolutely stunning!
I loved walking around watching the women work, and learning more about the mission. You can take half day classes here, too. We ate at the delicious restaurant overlooking the Mekong, it was so so so lovely.
Rent a bicycle and hop on the local boat (across the street from the Laos Royal Palace) to the other side of the Mekong. It costs 20 kip and on the other side you’ll find the stunning Pottery House where you can take classes, as well as hidden temples deep in the forests. This is a tiny village with some of the friendliest people I’ve met in Southeast Asia. It’s an eye-opening, off the beaten path adventure day that you should do if you have extra time.
Go on a sunset river cruise on the Mekong River. This was absolutely the highlight of my trip in Luang Prabang. We used the Khopfa Mekong Cruise, which in my opinion is the best option.
Book in advance and feel the peace of gliding on the water as the sun goes down. They serve food and wine, and it’s the best vibe EVER. And it’s only $25 for over two hours on the water. It feels like a luxurious cruise. Truly a core memory of my travels!
Where Should I Eat in Luang Prabang?
Khaiphaen is my favorite restaurant in Luang Prabang, which is a high honor because all the food is so freaking delicious! This is a special Laotian restaurant, as they have a training program for young people and their mission is really inspiring. Also, the food is outstanding. The flavor combinations are special, you can tell a true chef concocted the dishes.
My favorite is the veggie green curry with sticky rice, fish and chips, asparagus, and coconut ice cream banana fritter dessert. You will not be disappointed! And the prices are reasonable, ~80k – 120k.
Bouang Asian Eatery has wonderful French-inspired Asian dishes. The veggie burger is to-die for! And the drinks are fabulous as well. It’s a bit more expensive, 100k-300k kip, but worth it. I love sitting outside on the comfy couch people-watching.
Le Banneton Cafe French Bakery bakes the best croissant I’ve had in Southeast Asia. Soooo buttery and flaky and fresh. Only 25k too. I had one every day! It’s at the end of the main street with beautiful artisan shops, so take a stroll and treat yourself to a croissant at the end.
Cafe del Mundo is a hidden gem in LP! The veggie breakfast is so fresh and filling. Farm-to-table ingredients. My stomach was so happy after eating the balanced meal. Around 100k meals.
U-like-Ice-cream is a bit outside the city but has yummy local ice cream! If you want to see how the locals live, sit in this shop for an hour. My favorite was the mango! Super cheap as well, like 15k.
Viva Pasta is the place that Andy took us for Christmas Eve dinner. A local Lao woman runs this small restaurant hidden in the hills behind the night market. The pasta is so fresh and SO cheap. Such a great find. I think it’s 50k-70k per dish for fresh homemade pasta and sauce. Wow! And the vibes are great too, sitting outside having a beer, eating pasta and having deep chats.
To Conclude
I hope you’ve enjoyed my guide to Luang Prabang. It’s a special place that I hope doesn’t become over-populated with tourists in the upcoming years. The nature, the shops, the people, the restaurants, the chill vibe. UGH I would go a third time that’s how much I loved it! Enjoy your time in LP, and enjoy the magic!
xx Gracie
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