Things To Do
in Bến Tre
Bến Tre, located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, coconut plantations, and serene waterways. It serves as a gateway to the Mekong River and offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. Visitors can explore traditional villages, vibrant markets, and indulge in local delicacies while cruising through lush canals.
The warm hospitality of the locals and the tranquil ambiance make Bến Tre a perfect getaway for those seeking authenticity and relaxation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Coconut Candy Workshop to learn about the local industry and sample delicious coconut treats.
Take a boat ride on the Mekong River to visit the nearby islands, exploring traditional villages and enjoying local music performances.
Enjoy dinner at a riverside restaurant, savoring local dishes while watching the sunset over the water.
Visit the Bến Tre Market to experience local life and try fresh tropical fruits.
Engage in an eco-tour through the mangroves, where you can kayak or cycle through beautiful landscapes.
Participate in a cooking class to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes before enjoying your culinary creations.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Bowl of Pho | $2 |
| 🍹Coconut Drink | $1 |
| 🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant | $5 |
| 🚕Taxi Ride (within city) | $3 |
| 🏨Mid-range Hotel (per night) | $25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural landscapes and waterways.
- Rich cultural experiences with local traditions.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
- Limited nightlife options.
- Language barrier for non-Vietnamese speakers.
- Some areas may lack modern amenities.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
- "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat
- "Giúp tôi với" - Help me please
Places to Visit in Bến Tre
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic coconut palm trees lining the riverside create stunning backdrops for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Capture the essence of the Mekong Delta with its vibrant river scenes, local boats, and traditional fishing methods.
The quaint villages with their traditional houses and bustling markets provide plenty of opportunities for authentic cultural photography.
Food in Bến Tre
Bến Tre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, often served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.
Must-Try!
Fragrant rice cooked with coconut milk, enhancing the flavor and making it a delightful accompaniment to many dishes.
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli noodles, typically served with a peanut or hoisin sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and street food vendors offering a variety of traditional dishes.
Street vendors specializing in coconut candies, a local delicacy that you can watch being made and sample fresh.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet and show respect to elders, using appropriate titles and gestures when interacting.
When visiting temples or rural areas, dress modestly to show respect for local customs and traditions.
When dining, it is polite to wait for the host to begin eating before you start and to share food communally.
Safety
Tipping in Bến Tre
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated, with rounding up the bill or leaving small change being common practices.
Cash is widely used, especially in local markets and small eateries, with Vietnamese Dong being the local currency.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect warm and dry weather, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the region's natural beauty.
Prepare for heavy rains and possible flooding, which can affect travel plans but also enhance the lush landscapes.
Around January/February, the city becomes vibrant with celebrations, decorations, and special local dishes.
This is the best time to experience the local agriculture, with fresh fruits and vegetables available in abundance.
Bến Tre at Night
Hiking in Bến Tre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A tranquil area featuring well-marked trails through diverse ecosystems, offering opportunities for birdwatching and enjoying nature.
Located a bit further from Bến Tre, this UNESCO-recognized site has hiking trails that wind through lush mangrove forests, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach Bến Tre by plane.
Located approximately 85 km from Bến Tre, this is the nearest major airport, offering both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, the Kinh people predominantly inhabit urban areas and are involved in agriculture and commerce.
A significant minority group in the Mekong Delta, the Khmer people maintain their unique cultural traditions, including language, festivals, and cuisine.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is widely popular in Bến Tre, with local teams and communities often engaging in friendly matches.
A traditional sport in the Mekong Delta, dragon boat racing is celebrated during festivals and involves teams competing in long boats.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bến Tre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian versions of traditional dishes; however, it's advisable to specify to ensure no fish sauce is used.
Be sure to communicate any food allergies clearly, as some dishes may contain peanuts, shellfish, or gluten.