Things To Do
in Pleiku
Pleiku is a cool-climate city in Gia Lai Province, nestled in the Central Highlands of Vietnam and known for its pine-dappled scenery and coffee farming. The city blends a quiet urban vibe with access to hillside viewpoints, ethnic minority markets, and a backdrop of rolling hills. It serves as a gateway to the region’s natural attractions and cultural experiences, from lake views to traditional crafts.
Visitors can savor highland coffee, explore markets, and gain insight into the Jarai and Bahnar communities that shape the area’s identity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Square, where you can enjoy the fresh morning air and the sight of local residents practicing tai chi. Afterward, wander through the nearby Pleiku Cathedral, an architectural gem that showcases the unique blend of French colonial and local influences. Don't forget to grab a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at a nearby street stall, savoring a bowl of pho or banh mi.
In the afternoon, head to the Pleiku Museum to learn about the rich cultural heritage of the Central Highlands and its indigenous tribes. Engage with the exhibits that feature traditional artifacts and historical memorabilia, providing insight into the region's past. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll around the local market, where you can interact with vendors and sample local delicacies.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local café or restaurant to enjoy a traditional dinner featuring local specialties like grilled chicken or fish. Savor the vibrant flavors of the Central Highlands while watching the bustling street life around you. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the illuminated streets, taking in the atmosphere and perhaps stopping for a dessert at a popular dessert shop.
Begin your day with a scenic drive to Bien Ho Lake, also known as Lake T'nung, which is famous for its stunning natural beauty. Arrive early to catch the sunrise over the calm waters, and take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of the surroundings. Enjoy a light breakfast at a lakeside café, where you can indulge in fresh fruit and Vietnamese coffee while soaking in the views.
Spend the afternoon exploring the lake on a paddle boat, allowing you to get closer to the lush greenery and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. You can also hike around the lake, taking in the diverse flora and fauna that thrive in this picturesque setting. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the waterside, surrounded by nature and the sounds of local wildlife.
As evening falls, return to Pleiku and visit a local restaurant that specializes in Central Highlands cuisine for dinner. Try regional dishes such as grilled pork skewers and local rice wine, immersing yourself in the culinary traditions of the area. After dinner, relax at a nearby park, watching as the locals gather to socialize and enjoy the cool evening breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-5 |
| 🥗Lunch at mid-range restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧭Souvenirs and small shopping | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool highland climate with scenic landscapes.
- Quiet city with easy access to nature and coffee farms.
- Limited nightlife and fewer tourist facilities compared to bigger cities.
- Occasional travel delays due to road conditions in the rainy season.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh được không?" - Can you speak English?
- "Tôi muốn thanh toán bằng tiền mặt." - I would like to pay with cash.
- "Nhà vệ sinh ở đâu?" - Where is the restroom?
Places to Visit in Pleiku
Visit one of these nice places.
A serene crater lake framed by pines, perfect for reflections at sunrise or sunset.
Mist-blanketed highland forest with dramatic ridgelines and cloudscape photography opportunities.
Rolling hills and farmland that glow during golden hour, with distant mountains.
Food in Pleiku
Pleiku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sticky rice slow-cooked in bamboo tubes, often served with grilled meat or beans, a staple of the Highlands.
Must-Try!
Grilled pork skewers commonly found at markets and street stalls; pair with herbs and rice crackers.
Beef noodle soup that’s widely available and comforting, best enjoyed with fresh herbs and lime.
Sticky rice with mung beans and fried onions, a flavorful street snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, herbs, dried goods, and prepared snacks to sample on the go.
Evening stalls offering skewers, noodle bowls, and sweet treats in a lively atmosphere.
Narrow lanes around the city center where vendors serve grilled meats, noodle bowls, and fresh fruit.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A handshake with eye contact is common; younger people may greet with a nod or a slight bow in respectful contexts.
Remove shoes when entering temples; dress modestly; speak softly in sacred spaces.
Show deference to elders and avoid discussing controversial topics in casual settings.
Avoid pointing feet at people or sacred objects; use a palm-facing gesture to request attention.
Safety
Tipping in Pleiku
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is nice for good service but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated in tourist areas.
Cash (VND) is widely used; some mid-range places accept card payments; digital wallets (MoMo, Zalo Pay) are increasingly common in towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear sunny days are common, with cool nights; great for city walks and outdoor photography. Carry a light jacket for evenings.
Frequent showers and lush landscapes; showers can be sudden; plan for indoor activities and rain gear.
Transition periods with pleasant weather and fewer crowds; ideal for hiking and farm tours.
Pleiku at Night
Hiking in Pleiku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Steep but rewarding hike through cloud forest with panoramic viewpoints near Pleiku.
Ridge hikes offering sweeping highland vistas and coffee plantations.
Airports
How to reach Pleiku by plane.
A small domestic airport serving the Gia Lai region; connections to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City with limited frequencies.
Major international airport in central Vietnam; longer transfer to Pleiku but useful for broader travel.
HCMC's main airport; common gateway for long-distance flights to Pleiku via domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Kinh (Vietnamese) along with Jarai, Bahnar, and other minority communities form a diverse cultural mix, each contributing distinct languages, crafts, and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local leagues and informal games across town parks.
A common pastime in community centers and schools; social matches are common.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Pleiku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Pleiku, vegetarian options exist in most eateries; ask for a dish without meat or fish sauce, and look for tofu, mushroom, or vegetable stir-fries.