Things To Do
in Bến Tre
Bến Tre is a province in Vietnam located in the Mekong Delta region, known for its abundant coconut trees and lush fruit orchards. The province is surrounded by various rivers and canals, making it a popular destination for boat tours and river cruises. Bến Tre is also famous for its traditional craft villages, where visitors can witness artisans creating items such as coconut candy and handicrafts.
The tranquil and scenic beauty of Bến Tre provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $30
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $0.50 - $2
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat ride along the winding canals of Bến Tre. Enjoy the lush scenery and the tranquil atmosphere as you glide through the emerald waters.
Visit a local coconut candy factory to learn about the traditional production process. Taste fresh coconut treats and shop for souvenirs.
Dine at a riverside restaurant, savoring local specialties. Enjoy the serene views and the sound of the water as the sun sets.
Visit one of Bến Tre's famous fruit orchards to sample fresh tropical fruits like rambutan and durian. Participate in a guided tour to learn about local farming techniques.
Enjoy a relaxing lunch under the trees, followed by some leisure time to wander and explore the gardens. Take in the vibrant colors and scents of the fruits all around.
Return to your accommodation and unwind. Consider taking a short evening walk to enjoy the night air in this peaceful countryside.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
- Beautiful landscapes with rivers and coconut plantations.
- Famous for its delicious tropical fruits, especially coconuts.
- Opportunities for eco-tourism and exploration of the Mekong Delta.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Limited infrastructure in some areas, which may hinder travel.
- Exposure to seasonal flooding and natural disasters.
- Economic challenges and limited job opportunities.
- Less developed compared to major cities in Vietnam.
- Transportation can be challenging due to the region's waterway system.
Best Activities in Bến Tre
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic boat tour along the Bến Tre River to explore the lush and serene waterways of the Mekong Delta.
Embark on a leisurely bike tour through the picturesque coconut groves, immersing in the beauty of the countryside.
Immerse in the local culture and hospitality by staying with a local family, and gain insights into their way of life.
Explore the intricate waterways of the Mekong Delta by kayaking, witnessing the unique ecosystem and local life.
Experience the vibrant agricultural scene by visiting local fruit orchards, and taste a variety of fresh tropical fruits.
Places to Visit in Bến Tre
Visit one of these nice places.
The bridge offers stunning views of the river and surrounding countryside, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Visitors can enjoy beautiful views of fruit orchards and the rural landscape, providing great photo opportunities.
This Buddhist temple is set amidst picturesque surroundings and offers a serene atmosphere for photography.
Food in Bến Tre
Bến Tre Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A glutinous rice cake filled with savory mung bean paste, wrapped in thorny pandan leaves, and steamed. It's a unique and delicious local delicacy.
Must-Try!
A crispy and savory pancake made with rice flour, turmeric, coconut milk, and filled with a variety of ingredients such as pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It's best enjoyed at local eateries and street food stalls.
Grilled snakehead fish marinated in turmeric, lemongrass, and chili, giving it a fragrant and flavorful taste. This dish is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of local street food such as fresh spring rolls, grilled meats, and exotic tropical fruits. It's a great place to sample authentic Vietnamese flavors and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
This unique market on the river offers an opportunity to taste freshly cooked dishes directly from the boat vendors. It's an immersive experience in the local food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bến Tre, it is important to show respect for elders. This can include using proper titles and gestures of respect when interacting with older individuals.
When visiting Bến Tre, it is advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas, to show respect for local cultural norms.
In Bến Tre, it is customary to wait for the eldest or most senior person to begin eating before starting a meal. It is also polite to receive and present gifts with both hands.
Safety
Tipping in Bến Tre
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bến Tre, Vietnam, tipping is not a common practice. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for services such as taxi rides or spa treatments.
Cash is the predominant form of payment in Bến Tre. Some establishments may accept credit cards, but it's always best to have cash on hand, especially when visiting local markets or smaller businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with cool, pleasant weather and blooming flowers. The coconut trees are also lush and green during this time.
Expect hot and humid weather but this is the time when fruits like durian, rambutan, and mangosteen are in season. You can also experience traditional festivals and events during this time.
Heavy rainfall may occur, but this is the time when fruits like longan and jackfruit are plentiful. It's also the season for celebrating Mid-Autumn Festival, a major traditional festival in Vietnam.
Cooler weather with occasional cold spells, but it's a good time to enjoy the scenic beauty of Bến Tre and take part in activities like fruit harvesting and floating markets.
Bến Tre at Night
Hiking in Bến Tre
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene eco-tourism area featuring lush greenery and opportunities for hiking along scenic paths, perfect for nature lovers.
A beautiful mangrove forest located nearby with hiking trails that allow visitors to explore diverse wildlife and enjoy the natural landscape.
An inviting camping ground with various hiking trails nearby, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts wanting to hike and camp.
Though a bit further from Bến Tre, it's home to stunning hills and caves, with extensive hiking paths for adventurous trekkers.
Located near Bến Tre, featuring coastal views and relaxing hiking experiences along the beachfront trails.
Aiports
How to reach Bến Tre by plane.
The largest airport in Vietnam, located in Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 85 kilometers from Bến Tre. It serves as a major international gateway.
Located in Quy Nhon, around 220 kilometers from Bến Tre. It serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated in Can Tho, about 120 kilometers from Bến Tre. It primarily serves domestic flights but has some international connections.
Located in Cam Ranh, approximately 400 kilometers from Bến Tre. It handles both domestic and international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, comprising the largest demographic in Bến Tre.
Ethnic Chinese community, contributing to the cultural and economic landscape of Bến Tre.
An ethnic group residing primarily in the Mekong Delta, with a small presence in Bến Tre.
Includes various smaller ethnic groups that contribute to the diversity of Bến Tre.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is extremely popular in Bến Tre, with many local teams and clubs. The sport is played both casually and competitively, attracting a wide range of participants.
Volleyball is a favored sport in schools and community events. Bến Tre has a strong tradition of participation in regional volleyball tournaments.
Badminton is widely played in Bến Tre, with many local courts and clubs available. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and is often played recreationally.
Local forms of traditional Vietnamese martial arts are practiced in Bến Tre, emphasizing discipline and cultural heritage.
Basketball is growing in popularity, especially among the youth. Local schools and community centers have started to organize basketball games and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bến Tre.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Bến Tre's cuisine is predominantly seafood and coconut-based, many eateries and street food vendors offer vegetarian options such as fresh spring rolls, vegetarian bánh xèo, and stir-fried morning glory. Be sure to communicate your dietary preferences clearly when ordering.
Locally, rice is a staple, so gluten-free options are fairly prevalent. Dishes like rice paper rolls, grilled meats, and seafood with rice are safe choices. However, it's recommended to verify ingredients and cooking methods due to potential cross-contamination.