Things To Do
in Trà Vinh
Trà Vinh is a riverine province in the Mekong Delta known for its Khmer heritage, tranquil waterways, and lush coconut groves. The city centers blend colonial influences with vibrant local markets where herbs and seafood scent the air. Temples, pagodas, and traditional houses line the quieter streets, offering a glimpse into everyday delta life.
Visitors can explore coastal beaches, river journeys, and nearby minority communities for a diverse cultural experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the ancient Khmer temple complex of Angkor Borei, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and architecture. Afterward, stroll through the local market, soaking in the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and traditional snacks. Don't forget to try some local coffee at a nearby café, a perfect way to fuel your day.
In the afternoon, visit the Trà Vinh Museum to learn about the area's cultural heritage, including its unique blend of Vietnamese and Khmer influences. Following the museum, take a guided boat tour along the rivers, watching the local fishermen and enjoying the scenic landscape. As the sun begins to set, stop by the local artisan shops to pick up handmade souvenirs.
For dinner, indulge in a traditional Khmer meal at a local restaurant, where you can savor dishes like Amok and fresh seafood. After your meal, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, where the night market comes alive with food stalls and local crafts. Enjoy the lively atmosphere, and perhaps join in on some traditional dance performances that happen in the evening.
Start your day by heading to one of the nearby Khmer villages to experience local life firsthand. Participate in a cooking class where you will learn to prepare traditional Khmer dishes using fresh ingredients from the village. Enjoy the fruits of your labor as you share a meal with your new friends in the village.
In the afternoon, engage in traditional crafts such as weaving or pottery with local artisans who are eager to share their skills. Explore the village and meet the locals, learning about their daily routines and the significance of their traditions. Capture the vibrant life of the village with your camera, as the colorful houses and lush landscapes create the perfect backdrop.
Return to Trà Vinh for dinner, where you can try out a different local restaurant that specializes in regional dishes. After dinner, take a stroll through the town's lively streets, where you can enjoy street performances and interact with locals. End your day with a relaxing drink at a riverside café, reflecting on the day’s cultural experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🧃Street food snack | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| 🛵Scooter rental (per day) | $8-12 |
| 🚗Taxi or rides within city | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Khmer and Cham culture with welcoming locals
- Peaceful riverside scenery and authentic delta experiences
- Delicious coconut-based snacks and fresh seafood
- Compact, walkable city center with markets and temples
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure outside the city center
- Heat and humidity can be intense for outdoor activities
- Rural areas may have fewer English-speaking services
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có món ăn chay không?" - Do you have vegetarian dishes?
- "Tôi không ăn thịt" - I don’t eat meat
- "Ở đây có wifi không?" - Is there wifi here?
Places to Visit in Trà Vinh
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy shoreline ideal for sunrise and sunset photography with expansive horizons and gentle sea breezes.
A historic church with distinctive colonial architecture and colorful interior spaces suitable for architectural photography.
Ornate wooden carvings, gold tones, and vibrant temple architecture that showcase Khmer craftsmanship.
Food in Trà Vinh
Trà Vinh Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional sweet treat made from coconut milk and sugar; widely produced in Tra Vinh markets and countryside stalls.
Must-Try!
A Khmer-influenced fish noodle soup with lemongrass and tamarind, commonly enjoyed by locals across the delta.
A comforting fish porridge featuring freshwater fish (cá điêu hồng) common to the delta’s waters.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, herbs, fruits, and quick bites; great for tasting regional snacks and grabbing ingredients.
Evening stalls along the river offer bowls of noodles, grilled snacks, and tropical fruits with sunset views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites; remove shoes where required and avoid touching statues or altars unless invited.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in villages and religious settings; be respectful during ceremonies.
Greet with a smile and use both hands when giving or receiving small items; Khmer and Cham communities value politeness and soft-spoken manners.
Safety
Tipping in Trà Vinh
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most situations. If you receive exceptional service on a tour or at a higher-end restaurant, a small tip (about 5-10% or rounding up) is appreciated.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely preferred, especially in markets and smaller eateries. Some urban restaurants and hotels may accept cards or mobile payments; ATMs are available in the city.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with lower humidity and little rainfall; ideal for outdoor activities, boat trips, and photography in clear light.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; river levels rise; plan flexible schedules and carry a lightweight rain jacket.
Warm with occasional rain; good for gardens and markets, but be prepared for sudden showers.
Trà Vinh at Night
Hiking in Trà Vinh
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A hillside excursion in neighboring An Giang Province offering temple views and scenic delta panoramas; a longer day trip from Trà Vinh.
Gentle, scenic walks along river systems around the Mekong archipelago; best explored with a local guide.
Airports
How to reach Trà Vinh by plane.
Main regional hub serving southern Vietnam; about a few hours’ drive from Trà Vinh; connects to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and some international destinations via connecting flights.
Regional airport serving the southwestern coast; provides domestic connections and some international options via Phú Quốc; convenient for trips extending to the Kiên Giang region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority ethnic group in the province with a strong presence in commerce and daily life.
A significant Khmer-speaking minority with rich cultural and religious traditions.
Relatively small community with unique cultural practices and mosques.
Smaller community contributing to local markets and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular across the delta; local clubs and pickup games are common in city and village grounds.
A common recreational activity in parks and community centers.
Played in some schools and community events; a Southeast Asian favorite.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Trà Vinh.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for no fish sauce or shrimp paste. Many temples and vegetarian-focused stalls offer chay dishes and plant-based options.