Things To Do
in Gò Công
Gò Công is a historic river town in southern Vietnam's Tiền Giang Province, tucked along the delta's waterways and farmlands. It blends quiet markets, traditional crafts, and a relaxed pace that lets visitors observe authentic delta life. The town is known for seafood, riverside views, and cultural festivals that reveal local devotion and community spirit.
Its friendly residents and approachable scenery make Gò Công a rewarding offbeat base for exploring the Mekong Delta.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport and take a scenic drive to Gò Công, where the lush landscapes greet you. Check into your hotel and enjoy a Vietnamese breakfast at a local café to energize your day. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll along the riverside to acclimatize yourself to the serene environment.
Explore the fascinating local markets where you can taste fresh fruits and try local street food delicacies. Visit the Gò Công Historical Relic Area to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and cultural heritage. Engage with friendly locals who share tales of their traditions and way of life.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, relishing dishes unique to the Gò Công region. After dinner, take a peaceful walk along the riverbank to witness the beauty of the twilight sky reflected on the water. Conclude the day with a relaxing night at your hotel, listening to the sounds of nature.
Start your day with a visit to a local farm where you can participate in harvesting seasonal fruits such as dragon fruit and rambutan. Enjoy a breakfast of fresh produce picked right from the garden paired with traditional Vietnamese rice dishes. This immersive experience gives you a unique glimpse into the agricultural lifestyle of the area.
Visit nearby fishing villages where you can witness the daily activities of fishermen and sample fresh seafood. Participate in a cooking class to learn how to make signature dishes using the fresh ingredients around you. Enjoy the warm hospitality of the villagers who take pride in their culinary heritage.
Enjoy a traditional meal at the home of a local family and share stories over a delicious home-cooked dinner. After dinner, participate in a folk music session where you can learn about traditional Vietnamese music and even try your hand at playing local instruments. Take in the charm of the rural night, filled with sounds of nature and laughter.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-2 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $15-40 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride within town | $2-6 |
| 🍉Fresh fruit or smoothie | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic delta experience away from heavy tourist crowds
- Excellent seafood and riverfront dining
- Relaxed pace ideal for soaking in local culture
- Accessible day trips to canals, orchards, and markets
- Limited large-scale nightlife and major attractions
- Transportation options can be basic outside main cities
- Fewer English-speaking staff in rural places
- Seasonal weather can affect boat and outdoor plans
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is it?
- "Ở đây có món ngon không?" - What do you recommend here?
Places to Visit in Gò Công
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide views of the Mekong Delta with warm, golden light reflecting off the water and boats bobbing in the distance.
Vibrant stalls and locals bargaining create dynamic, colorful street photography opportunities.
Shaded lanes with modest colonial-era and traditional Vietnamese homes for atmospheric, everyday life shots.
Bridges and quayside spots where boats pass by, offering reflections and a sense of delta rhythms.
Food in Gò Công
Gò Công Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Caramelized fish cooked in a clay pot, typically served with steamed rice and accompanied by fresh herbs.
Must-Try!
Fragrant noodle soup with a clear, savory broth, featuring seafood or pork and crunchy vegetables.
Crispy savory Vietnamese pancake with shrimp and bean sprouts, best enjoyed with herbs and dipping sauces.
Fresh spring rolls packed with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli, served with a fish-sauce dip.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning and afternoon market where you can sample fresh fruits, river fish, herbs, and regional snacks.
Casual stalls along the waterfront offering grilled seafood, banh mi, and refreshing fruit shakes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting temples; remove hats and shoes where required.
Use polite language and a respectful tone; addressing elders with titles is common practice.
Always ask permission before photographing people, especially elders or children, and avoid intrusive angles.
Safety
Tipping in Gò Công
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for excellent service; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip (around 5–10%) is common in tourist-oriented spots.
Cash in Vietnamese dong (VND) is widely accepted; larger hotels and some restaurants may take cards or mobile wallets such as Momo or ZaloPay, but cash is safest in rural areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with strong sun; carry water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; occasional street flooding in low-lying areas; moisture-friendly gear and waterproof footwear are handy.
Pleasantly warm days with cooler mornings; clearer skies, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing and photography.
Gò Công at Night
Hiking in Gò Công
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal mangrove forest near Ho Chi Minh City with boardwalks and birdwatching opportunities.
Nearby forested reserve offering longer hiking trails, river tours, and wildlife viewing for a nature escape.
Airports
How to reach Gò Công by plane.
Located in Ho Chi Minh City; major international and domestic flights; about a 1.5–2.5 hour drive to Gò Công depending on traffic.
Located in Can Tho; convenient for southern Delta travelers; typically a 1.5–2 hour drive to Gò Công.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Gò Công and the southern Mekong Delta.
Small Khmer communities in the broader delta area; cultural influences appear in markets and temples.
A minority with historical trade links and local community establishments.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools, parks, and community leagues across the Delta.
Popular in homes and community centers as an easy, social sport.
Seasonal water sport linked to river communities and festival activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gò Công.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries; look for vegetable-forward dishes and request no fish sauce or stock, and you can often customize noodles and soups with tofu and mushrooms.