Cross the Mekong to Thailand for a day trip to Nong Khai

Visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) — 25 km from center, reachable by local bus ($1) or tuk-tuk ($10-15 return)

Explore Pha That Luang, the golden stupa and national symbol of Laos (entry ~$1)

Visit Patuxai (Victory Gate), Vientiane's Arc de Triomphe equivalent (climb to the top for views, ~$1)

Visit Buddha Park (Xieng Khuan) — 25 km from center, reachable by local bus ($1) or tuk-tuk ($10-15 return)