Most Savannakhet attractions can be found in the town centre, making it easy for sightseeing on foot or bicycle. Savannakhet itself is famous as the birthplace of Laos’ popular former leader, Kaysone Phomvihane. It was also known as a French trading outpost back in colonial times – you can still see many vintage French colonial and Sino-Franco buildings in the business districts.
It’s a good idea to drop by the Savannakhet Tourist Office on Khantabuli Road, where you can pick up free map of the city and get helpful tips from the English-speaking staff. The office also offers local walking tours and eco-tours if you want to explore the city with a local.
One of the best things to do in Savannakhet is exploring its historic sights on foot. Buddhist temples, museums, and Catholic churches are located in the town centre, while natural landscapes like waterfalls and lakes are reachable by tuk-tuk or motorbike.
While Savannakhet isn’t as big as Luang Prabang, Vientiane, or Pakse, the city has a number of fascinating sites you...