Wondering where to stay in Luang Prabang? There are several Luang Prabang hotels, hostels and guesthouses to stay that are centrally located perfect for exploring. I compiled a list of the best places to stay in Luang Prabang for your reading pleasure.
Luang Prabang is Lao’s first UNESCO heritage site and the culture capital of Laos. Besides the preserved architecture and the infamous Kuang Si Falls there’s much to see and do in this city or shall I say “small” town.
Where to Stay in Luang prabang laos
The Mighty Mekong River cuts through the historic town and meets with the Nam Khan River. You can divide Luang Prabang into three areas, Old Town, Mekong Riverfront and Nam Khan River.
For full transparency, I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases that gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. All proceeds go to keep Jess traveling and coffee ☕️. I thank you in advance.
What is the best area to stay in luang prabang?
Old Town
Old town is located on the peninsula where the Mekong and Nam Khan rivers combine. Inside Old town is where you’ll find the majority of historic Wats aka temples, cafes, restaurants and buildings that have been restored for tourism.
Here you’ll find plenty of mid-range and boutique hotels. There are also a few budget options if you’re watching your wallet.
Staying in Luang Prabang Old town means that most things are within walking distance including restaurants and temples. But the highlight of staying in this area is witnessing the giving of the alms.
Luang Prabang Travel Guides:
Swimming pools are unable to be built within the historic area, so if you want a hotel with a swimming pool, you’ll need to look around the Mekong or the Nam Khan River.
Downtown Backpackers Hostel
If you’re on a shoestring budget the Downtown Backpackers Hostel is a great option. Located walking distance to the night market and close to bars and restaurants to spend an evening people watching. The dorm beds are as private as you can get in a dorm including a curtain and lamp.
Mekong Riverview Hotel
This is a beautiful property close to restaurants and the night market. If you get a river view room at the Mekong Riverview Hotel you’ll love the balcony.
This hotel is on the Nam Khan Riverfront so you get to enjoy watching the river rush by. The tasteful decor and wooden features make you feel right at home.
Villa Stay
This place has a lovely riverview from the private balcony, which is the BEST part. Located on a quiet street in the midst of Old town with a 1 minute walk to the main drag full of restaurants, shops and massage parlors. The night market is also under a 10 minute walk.
Peninsula Villas
This Studio room is a part of the Peninsula house with private entrance with and a small out door sitting area. Located in the middle of Luang Prabang old town and on the ground floor. Walkable to the night market, Royal Museum within 5-10 minutes. Great budget stay for couples.
nam Khan River
The Nam Khan River area is filled with budget guesthouses, bars, cafes and hostels. Although the area is dotted with bars I would not worry about the noise as Luang Prabang is a slow, laid back town.
You’ll be walking distance from Luang Prabang’s top attractions like the night market and historic temples.
Stay here for cheap stays and a lively backpacker scene.
My Dream Boutique Resort
If a dreamy balcony is a priority when choosing where to stay in Luang Prabang then My Dream Boutique Resort will be the perfect place. The airy rooms provide excellent natural light perfect for coffee on the balcony every morning.
Villa Oasis
⭐️ Top Pick for this area
Wake up every morning surrounded by nature around with views lily pond and coconut trees. You stay here for the perks of a swimming pool and the free breakfast and coffee.
This is where we stayed during our visit to Luang Prabang. We LOVED it. The street that this hotel is located on is one of the streets that the monks proceed down everymorning during the alms ceremony. This is a great stay if you struggle with an early wake up call, all you’ll have to do is roll out of bed.
Kiridara Villa Visoun
Most of the hotels in this area aren’t located directly on the river. But for a riverfront stay in luxury make sure you check out Kiridara Villa Visoun. You get a private balcony, air conditioning, an amazing breakfast and of course the views.
Mekong riverfront
It is in this area that you’ll find guesthouses and and home stays. If you’re on a backpacker budget you can find a basic room and shared bath here for less than $10. You’ll get more of a local friend if you base yourself out of this area.
On the opposite side there are several sought after properties and boutique hotels that line the river. Stay here for sunset and riverside views.
A walk to riverfront restaurants and cafes will be 5-10. It will be a 10-15 minute walk to old town, the night market and an abundance of temples.
The Honeymoon Suite
The Honeymoon Suite is a private suite with a porch that looks across the entire property down to the Mekong River. The property is one of the largest frontages on the Mekong.
The property adjoins the Baan Khoy Temple, called Vat Baan Khoy. The monks ring the morning bells for about one minute each day around 5am before they begin their walk to collect alms.
Satri House Secret Retreats
The Satri House Secret Retreats screams INSTAGRAM GOALS. With 2 beautiful pools and a well groomed grounds you’ll find yourself spending more time at the hotel than in the town itself. Splurge on the spa, you deserve it. This is one of the best Luang Prabang hotels.
Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel
If you’re looking to liveit up in the life of luxury for a few days than stay at Maison Souvannaphoum Hotel. Like most of the hotels on this list, it’s walkable to the night market and restaurants. It’s an oasis and a treat when choosing where to stay in Luang Prabang.
Sunrise Garden House
The Sunrise Garden House is a beautiful place to come home to after a day of exploring. Great location about a 5-10 minute walk to the night market and several restaurants. There’s also a beautiful pool and it’s a great price point.
outliers
If you have your own wheels aka motorbike and want to opt for some luxury at one of the finer hotels then check out these places to stay in Luang Prabang.
Souphattra Hotel
Looking for champagne on a beer budget? Opt for the Souphattra Hotel. This hotel is walkable to all the must see’s and has a fantastic pool. It’s located in a quiet area to enjoy dinner and live the Lao saying of ‘PDR’ Please Don’t Rush.
Things to do in Luang Prabang
Headed to Laos? Check out some Guides ↓
Enjoy this Post?!?! Pin in for Later ↓
Jess. What is the name of the place above. In Luang Prabang lazing on floor overlooking river. It looks devine
Hi, it’s called Utopia. Great food and a spot to relax, read a book, work on your computer and just spend the day.