Things To Do
in Biên Hòa

Biên Hòa is a vibrant city located in southern Vietnam, just east of Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its rich history and cultural diversity, it serves as an important industrial center in the region. The city is also famous for its lush landscapes, including rivers and parks that offer a glimpse into the natural beauty of Vietnam.

Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional Vietnamese culture and modern urban life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Đồng Nai River for a scenic walk along the waterfront, followed by breakfast at a local café serving Vietnamese coffee and banh mi.

afternoon
:

Visit the Vietnam National Museum of History to learn about the country's past, then head to the Biên Hòa City Park for a leisurely stroll amidst the greenery.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in southern Vietnamese cuisine, then immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of a local night market.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a morning trip to the Bửu Long Park for hiking and exploring its beautiful landscapes and a serene lake.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Trấn Biên Temple, a significant site for the local community, followed by lunch at a nearby street food stall.

evening
:

Cap off your trip with a visit to a local bar for drinks and live music, experiencing the nightlife of Biên Hòa.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$2
🥖Banh Mi Sandwich$1
🍺Local Beer$1
Café Sua Da (Iced Coffee)$1
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural history and diversity.
  • Delicious local cuisine and street food.
  • Proximity to Ho Chi Minh City for easy day trips.
  • Traffic can be congested at times.
  • Language barrier for non-Vietnamese speakers.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Tôi muốn cái này" - I want this.

Places to Visit in Biên Hòa

Visit one of these nice places.

Bửu Long Park

A beautiful park featuring lush greenery, a lake, and stunning views, perfect for nature photography.

Đồng Nai River

Capture breathtaking sunsets and the vibrant life along the riverbanks.

Trấn Biên Temple

An iconic temple with intricate architecture, offering great opportunities for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Biên Hòa

Biên Hòa offers a delicious array of local dishes that reflect the flavors of southern Vietnam, making it a haven for food lovers.

Biên Hòa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh mì

A Vietnamese sandwich filled with a variety of ingredients, including meats, vegetables, and herbs.

Must-Try!

Phở

Traditional Vietnamese noodle soup that is a must-try, often served with beef or chicken.

Cơm tấm

Broken rice served with grilled pork, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Biên Hòa Night Market

A vibrant market offering a variety of street food options, perfect for sampling local delicacies.

Nguyễn Văn Trị Street Food

A bustling street known for its many food stalls, serving everything from grilled meats to fresh spring rolls.

Climate Guide

Weather

Biên Hòa has a tropical climate characterized by two main seasons: the dry season from December to April and the wet season from May to November. Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F) throughout the year. Humidity can be high, especially during the wet season, making it feel warmer. Rainfall is most common from May to October, particularly in June and September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders by greeting them first and addressing them politely.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites.

Using Both Hands

When giving or receiving something, use both hands as a sign of respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Biên Hòa is generally safe for tourists, but common precautions should be taken. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas, and keep your belongings secure. It's advisable to avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas.

Tipping in Biên Hòa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving small change is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (December - April)

Expect warm and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Wet Season (May - November)

Frequent rains can occur, especially in the afternoons; be prepared with an umbrella.

Tet Festival Season (January - February)

Experience local celebrations with colorful decorations and traditional foods.

Cool Season (November - January)

Mild temperatures make it comfortable for exploring the city.

Nightlife Guide

Biên Hòa at Night

Biên Hòa has a vibrant nightlife scene with a mix of bars, live music venues, and night markets. You can find places offering local beers and cocktails, as well as spots with live traditional music. The atmosphere is lively, especially during weekends, with many locals enjoying the night out with friends and family.

Hiking in Biên Hòa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Bửu Long Mountain

A popular hiking destination offering scenic views and trails suitable for all skill levels.

Dai Loc Mountain

Features challenging trails with beautiful landscapes and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Biên Hòa by plane.

Tan Son Nhat International Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Biên Hòa, this is the nearest major airport, serving both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Biên Hòa is moderately walkable, with many areas in the city center accessible on foot. Sidewalks are available in most places, but they can be uneven or interrupted by vendors. While some attractions are within walking distance, using a bike or local transportation may be more convenient for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh (Vietnamese)

The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, making up most of Biên Hòa's population.

Ethnic Minorities

Includes various groups such as the Tay and Hoa, contributing to the cultural diversity of the area.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is extremely popular in Vietnam, with many local teams and matches drawing crowds on weekends.

Badminton

Badminton is widely played, with many local courts available for both casual and competitive play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Biên Hòa can be heavy, especially during peak hours. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation, and it's important to be cautious while crossing streets. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, but ride-hailing apps are also popular for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Biên Hòa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Most local eateries can accommodate vegetarian diets, but it's best to ask about specific dishes.

Gluten-Free Options

While rice-based dishes are common, be cautious with sauces and fried foods that may contain gluten.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Biên Hòa include several public and private hospitals. The quality of care is generally good, but for more serious conditions, it's advisable to seek treatment in larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City. Emergency services are available, but it's wise to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide