Things To Do
in Sóc Trăng

Sóc Trăng is a picturesque province located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, known for its rich cultural diversity and beautiful landscapes. The area is home to various ethnic communities, including the Khmer and Chinese, contributing to its unique cultural tapestry. Sóc Trăng is famous for its traditional festivals and delicious local cuisine, especially its distinctive mooncakes.

With its serene rivers and lush greenery, it offers a tranquil escape for travelers seeking to explore the local way of life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Culture
morning
:

Visit the Bat Pagoda (Chùa Dơi), a significant Buddhist temple known for its unique architecture and the thousands of bats that inhabit it.

afternoon
:

Explore the Khmer Cultural Center to learn about the local Khmer culture and traditions, followed by a visit to the Sóc Trăng Museum.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Khmer dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the river to enjoy the evening breeze.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Local Flavors
morning
:

Take a boat tour through the lush waterways of Sóc Trăng, observing the local fishing techniques and scenic landscapes.

afternoon
:

Visit the floating markets where you can sample local delicacies and shop for handmade crafts.

evening
:

Experience the vibrant night market, where you can enjoy street food and local entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$2
Coffee$1
🍽️Dinner at a Local Restaurant$5
🚕Taxi Ride$3
🏨Hotel Night Stay$25

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural diversity and heritage.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Beautiful landscapes and serene environment.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Public transport can be less reliable.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Vietnamese speakers.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat
  • "Giúp tôi với" - Help me
  • "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Sóc Trăng

Visit one of these nice places.

Bat Pagoda

Capture stunning images of the unique architecture and the thousands of bats hanging from the trees.

Khmer Cultural Center

A perfect spot for showcasing the vibrant colors and rich cultural heritage of the Khmer community.

Sóc Trăng River

The scenic riverbanks provide picturesque views, especially during sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sóc Trăng

Sóc Trăng is a culinary treasure trove, offering an array of delicious dishes that reflect its diverse cultural influences.

Sóc Trăng Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh Pía

A sweet pastry filled with mung beans and salted egg, a local specialty you must try.

Must-Try!

Hủ Tiếu

A popular noodle soup made with pork, seafood, and a variety of fresh herbs.

Cháo Vịt

Duck porridge, a comforting dish often enjoyed for breakfast.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sóc Trăng Night Market

A bustling market filled with food stalls offering a variety of local street foods and snacks.

Floating Market of Ngã Năm

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and taste local dishes right from the boats.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sóc Trăng experiences a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the wet season (May to October). Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year, with the hottest months being April and May. Rainfall is abundant during the wet season, with frequent heavy downpours, while the dry season offers clear skies and lower humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; greetings and gestures should be courteous.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples, wear modest clothing and remove shoes before entering.

Dining Etiquette

It is polite to wait for the host to start the meal; use chopsticks properly.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sóc Trăng is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Be cautious of traffic and always use crosswalks. Additionally, be aware of potential scams in tourist areas and negotiate prices before purchasing from vendors.

Tipping in Sóc Trăng

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, digital payments are becoming more common, especially in urban areas.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

This is the best time to visit for pleasant weather and outdoor activities.

Wet Season (May to October)

Expect heavy rains and possible flooding; travel may be challenging.

Tet Festival (January or February)

Experience vibrant celebrations and local customs, but be prepared for crowded conditions.

Harvest Season (August to September)

Witness the beautiful rice fields in their golden glory and enjoy fresh produce.

Nightlife Guide

Sóc Trăng at Night

Sóc Trăng's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a focus on local cafes and night markets. Visitors can enjoy a variety of street food, local music performances, and casual gatherings in parks. While bars are limited, some cafes offer live music on weekends, creating a relaxed atmosphere for socializing.

Hiking in Sóc Trăng

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bạch Mã Mountain

Located about 50 km from Sóc Trăng, this mountain offers scenic trails and views of the surrounding landscape.

Tràm Chim National Park

A bird sanctuary with numerous trails for hiking and observing various bird species in their natural habitat.

Airports

How to reach Sóc Trăng by plane.

Can Tho International Airport

Located about 60 km from Sóc Trăng, this airport serves domestic flights and offers connections to major cities in Vietnam.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sóc Trăng is moderately walkable, especially in the town center where many attractions, cafes, and markets are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but some areas may be crowded. For longer distances, cycling is a popular and enjoyable way to explore the surroundings.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Khmer Community

The largest ethnic group in Sóc Trăng, known for their unique culture, language, and traditional festivals.

Chinese Community

Another significant demographic group, contributing to the local economy and cultural diversity through their businesses and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

A widely popular sport in Sóc Trăng, often played in local parks and fields.

Badminton

A favored recreational sport among locals, with many courts available in community centers.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sóc Trăng is generally light compared to larger cities, but be cautious of motorbikes and bicycles on the roads. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but many visitors prefer to rent bicycles or scooters for more flexibility. Always wear a helmet when riding a scooter and be mindful of local driving customs.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sóc Trăng.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, it's advisable to check for fish sauce.

Halal Food

While options may be limited, some restaurants cater to halal dietary needs; inquire in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Sóc Trăng include several local hospitals and clinics that offer basic medical services. More advanced healthcare options can be found in larger cities such as Can Tho, which is about an hour's drive away. It is advisable for travelers to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide