Vientiane is a small capital and most of the central sights can be walked between in under twenty minutes. The main exception is Pha That Luang, which is a long walk or a short tuk-tuk ride from the centre.
Tuk-tuks are the default short-distance transport. Drivers cluster around hotels, the markets, and the main monuments. Always agree the fare before you climb in — expect around 20,000-50,000 kip for a hop within the centre and around 80,000-120,000 kip for the Buddha Park run. Tuk-tuks rarely meter; bargaining is normal.
Bicycles are an excellent way to see the city. The grid is flat, the traffic is gentler than in Bangkok, and bikes can be hired for around 20,000 kip a day from most guesthouses. Mornings and late afternoons are coolest. A handful of shops also rent motorbikes.
Ride-hailing. The Lao app LOCA works like a local Uber and is more transparent than haggling for a tuk-tuk. Coverage in the centre is reliable; airport runs are easy to book.
Taxis are scarce in the centre and mostly congregate at the airport and hotels. They are useful for trips beyond the city or for early-morning departures to the train station.