The Best Backpacker Hostels in Vientiane, Laos

This post was originally published on Culture Trip. To read the original and see the accompanying photos, click here.

Vientiane, Laos, is Asia’s smallest capital, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t plenty of cool hostels for budget travelers to choose from. Whether you’re looking for great outdoor space, a party atmosphere or a location in the smack dab middle of town, there’s something for you on this list of the best hostels in Vientiane.

Orange Backpacker Hostel

Located just outside of downtown near other budget guest houses and backpacker bars, Orange Backpacker Hostel is a family-run business that offers dorm beds at bargain basement prices. Expect to pay extra for towels and breakfast. A print station and business center with a desktop computer is located in the lobby.

Sihome Road Vientiane 01000 Lao PDR

Chantabury• +65-6823-2330

Orange Backpacker Hostel | © Regina Beach/Culture Trip

Vientiane Backpacker Hostel

Located in the heart of down town Vientiane, Vientiane Backpacker Hostel is within walking distance of the riverfront and many major monuments and temples. This is an all-in-one stop where you can rent a bike or book a tour to Buddha Park. Free breakfast.

Norkeo Kuomman Road Vientiane 85620 Lao PDR

Near Riverfront• 65-6823-2330

Vientiane Back Packers Hostel | © Regina Beach/Culture Trip

Backpackers Garden Hostel

Backpackers Garden Hostel is a secret enclave tucked away down an alley behind a hardware store. This quiet oasis has a huge beautiful courtyard full of seating and a lily pond. Two cats hold down the fort and artistically inclined guests are invited to add to the murals on the walls of the dorms and lobby.

Backpackers Garden Hostel, 028 Sihome Road, 01000 Vientiane, Lao PDR

Backpackers Garden Hostel | © Regina Beach/ Culture Trip

Dream Home Hostel #1 and #2

The Dream Home Hostel Hostels #1 and #2 are across the street from each other on a road filled with backpacker accommodations and bars. The vibe here is fun, fun, fun. The party starts with happy hour from 8-10 p.m. with free vodka and continues with billiards and a swimming pool.

Dream Home Hostel #1 049 Sihome Road, Ban Sihome, 01000 Vientiane, Lao PDR

Dream Hostel #2 | © Regina Beach/Culture Trip

Hive Hostel

This new hostel opened in 2016 and has a very sheik look with wrought iron beds and minimalistic black and white decor. Pricier than some of the other hostels in town, Hive Hostel smells great and feels ultra-clean with modern bathrooms. It’s located a block away from the Mekong River.

Hive Hostel and Cafe Setthathilath Road, Chanthabouly District, 01000 Vientiane, Lao PDR

Hive Hostel | © Regina Beach/Culture Trip

PVO Hostel

PVO Hostel has a lush front entry area with plants and seating. The staff is top notch, English-speaking and helpful in planning transportation throughout Laos or even Thailand or Vietnam. It’s located in a convenient part of town on a quiet side street near Nam Phou fountain. Get breakfast at the fabulous Scandinavian Bakery down the block.

PVO Hostel Rue Pangkham, Vientiane, Laos

PVO Hostel | © Regina Beach/Culture Trip

Mixtok Inn

Mixtok Inn is a great place to share a room if you’re traveling with friends and want a nicer yet still very affordable accommodation in the heart of down town Vientiane. Mixtok offers free breakfast and has a juice bar in the lobby. Just across from Wat Mixayaram on one side and Carol Cassidy Lao Textiles on the other.

Mixtok Inn, Setthathilath Road, Chanthabouly District, Vientiane Lao PDR

Niny Backpacker Hotel

Niny Backpacker Hotel has bunkbeds in their mixed dorms. Breakfast is included and Wi-Fi is available throughout the hostel. Niny is cash only (like many other stores, restaurants and establishments in Laos) so be sure to stop by the ATM before paying for the night. Rent a bicycle to go along the Mekong or ask the staff to help you book a tour to Buddha Park.

Niny Backpacker Hotel Next to Wat Mixay, Norkeokhunmane Road, 01000 Vientiane, Lao PDR

Lucky Backpacker Hostel

If you want to upgrade from the mixed dorm, Lucky Backpacker Hostel offers private rooms with private bath as well. Lucky has comfy beds and a choice of free breakfast options. Rent a motorbike to explore Vientiane or walk half a block to Chokdee Cafe Belgian Beer Bar for one of the largest beer lists in the city.

Lucky Backpacker Hostel, Manthatourath Road, 01000 Vientiane, Lao PDR

Funky Monkey Hostel

Funky Monkey Hostel has very helpful multi-lingual staff and a great price for the location. The hostel is bright and very, painted with fun murals on the walls. It’s just a minute or two walk to the night market and the Mekong River front. When you’re ready to move on, the staff will gladly help you book the next leg of your journey.

Funky Monkey Hostel Francois Ngin Road,Ban Mixay,Chanthabouly District, 01000 Vientiane, Lao PDR