Things To Do
in Biên Hòa
Biên Hòa is a growing provincial capital in Đồng Nai Province, just northeast of Ho Chi Minh City, set along the Đồng Nai River. The city blends busy markets, modern infrastructure, and rural pockets, offering a taste of southern Vietnamese life. It serves as a practical base for day trips to nearby natural and cultural sights while staying affordable and approachable.
The local culture is warm and pragmatic, with a lively street-food scene and a mix of urban and rural influences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Tran Bien Temple, where you can admire the intricate architecture and serene surroundings. After exploring the temple grounds, stroll along the banks of the Dong Nai River, taking in the fresh morning air and the beauty of local life. Don’t forget to stop by a nearby café to enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast of pho or banh mi.
In the afternoon, head to the Biên Hòa Museum to delve into the rich history of the region, featuring exhibits on local culture and the impact of the Vietnam War. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the lush green parks nearby, such as the Dong Nai Culture and Nature Reserve, where you can enjoy the sounds of nature. Grab a light lunch at a local eatery, sampling delicious dishes like goi cuon (spring rolls) and bun thit nuong (grilled pork noodles).
As evening approaches, make your way to the bustling street markets, where you can browse through a variety of local handicrafts and street food stalls. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant that overlooks the city, sampling local specialties while watching the sunset. End your day with a relaxing stroll along the riverfront, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and lively sounds of Biên Hòa at night.
Begin your day by visiting the Biên Hòa Central Market, where the vibrant colors and sounds of vendors will awaken your senses. Explore the many stalls, filled with fresh produce, local ingredients, and handmade crafts, while interacting with friendly locals. Try some freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee at a nearby stall to fuel your morning exploration.
In the afternoon, participate in a cooking class offered by a local chef, where you will learn to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes using fresh ingredients from the market. After the cooking session, enjoy the delicious meal you've created, accompanied by stories about local culinary traditions. Spend some time relaxing at a nearby coffee shop, enjoying the atmosphere and perhaps trying another local delicacy like banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).
As night falls, explore the vibrant food scene in Biên Hòa by visiting a night market. Sample an array of street food, including skewered meats and fresh seafood, while mingling with locals. Conclude your evening with a visit to a traditional music performance, where you can enjoy the sounds of Vietnamese folk music in an intimate setting.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within city | $3-6 |
| 🍜Lunch for two at mid-range restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Affordable prices and good value for money
- Strategic base for exploring southern Vietnam
- Friendly locals and vibrant street food
- Riverside scenery and nearby nature spots
- Limited English in some areas outside tourist spots
- Traffic can be heavy, especially near Ho Chi Minh City
- Nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities
- Public transportation options are less developed than in bigger cities
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Ở đây có wifi không?" - Do you have wifi here?
- "Tôi không ăn thịt" - I am vegetarian
- "Bạn có thể giúp tôi không?" - Can you help me?
Places to Visit in Biên Hòa
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the river with boats and silhouettes of palms, perfect for wide-angle shots.
Lush greenery and a cascading waterfall; a tranquil setting for nature photography.
Colorful religious architecture with ornate details and lively street scenes nearby.
Shaded boulevards and vintage storefronts offer nostalgic urban photography.
Food in Biên Hòa
Biên Hòa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A southern staple featuring fractured rice served with grilled pork, pork skin, pickles, and nuoc mam.
Must-Try!
Crispy crepe stuffed with pork and shrimp, served with herbs and a dipping sauce.
A versatile noodle soup common in the south, with pork, seafood, herbs, and lime.
Rice paper rolls packed with shrimp, pork, greens, and herbs, served with peanut or hoisin sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant morning market offering fresh produce, herbs, seafood, and busy street bites.
Evening market with grilled skewers, pho, and sweet desserts in a lively atmosphere.
Casual stalls along the Dong Nai River serving fresh river seafood and quick meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A friendly 'Xin chào' and a light handshake; address elders and strangers with courtesy.
Dress modestly and remove shoes when entering temples; avoid touching sacred objects or pointing feet toward altars.
Ask for permission before taking photos of individuals, especially in markets or religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Biên Hòa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; in nicer tourist-oriented spots a small tip (5-10%) is appreciated; for street vendors tips are uncommon.
Cash is widely used; many places accept debit/credit cards in urban areas; mobile wallets such as VNPay, Momo, and ZaloPay are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with occasional afternoon showers; plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening and stay hydrated.
Heavy rains and higher humidity; carry a light rain jacket and be prepared for occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
Warm to hot days with plenty of sun; ideal for outdoor exploration, river trips, and longer strolls.
Biên Hòa at Night
Hiking in Biên Hòa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails leading to a scenic waterfall, popular for half-day hikes.
Dense forest with boardwalks, wildlife viewing, and opportunities for longer treks.
Airports
How to reach Biên Hòa by plane.
Main international gateway to Ho Chi Minh City; accessible by car, bus, or rail link, roughly an hour or more depending on traffic.
New regional hub planned to serve southern Vietnam; current status may vary—check latest updates for openings and access to Biên Hòa.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant group in Biên Hòa with a lively mix of urban and rural lifestyles.
Smaller communities contributing to local markets, cuisine, and crafts.
A significant number live and work in the city’s industrial zones, adding to the urban vibrancy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and community clubs; local leagues and informal games are common.
Popular in community centers and parks; many locals play for recreation and fitness.
Courts are common in schools and city parks; pickups happen in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Biên Hòa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common in Buddhist-influenced areas; look for vegetable-based soups, stir-fries, and noodle dishes; ask for no fish sauce.