Things To Do
in Rạch Giá

Rạch Giá is a coastal city in southern Vietnam, serving as the capital of Kiên Giang Province. Known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant culture, it is a gateway to the beautiful Phú Quốc Islands. The city boasts a rich history, with influences from various cultures, reflected in its architecture and local traditions.

Visitors can enjoy the serene beaches, bustling markets, and delicious local cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Rạch Giá
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Rạch Giá Market, where you can sample local breakfast dishes like bánh mì and phở.

afternoon
:

Visit the Nguyễn Trung Trực Monument, followed by a stroll along the waterfront promenade to enjoy the scenic views of the ocean.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant, followed by a walk to the Rạch Giá Night Market for some shopping and street food.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Visit the historic Tam Bảo Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist temple with stunning architecture.

afternoon
:

Explore the Kiên Giang Museum to learn about the region's history and culture.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional Vietnamese restaurant, then experience the local nightlife at one of the bars or cafes in the city center.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$1.50
🍺Local Beer$1.00
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$3.00
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Room$15.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
  • Delicious and diverse culinary offerings.
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Limited English proficiency among locals.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging.
  • During the rainy season, outdoor activities may be disrupted.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
  • "Tôi muốn ăn" - I want to eat.

Places to Visit in Rạch Giá

Visit one of these nice places.

Nguyễn Trung Trực Monument

An iconic landmark surrounded by lush gardens, offering great views for photography.

Rạch Giá Beach

A serene beach with stunning sunsets, perfect for capturing the beauty of the coastline.

Tam Bảo Pagoda

A beautiful Buddhist temple featuring intricate architecture and tranquil surroundings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Rạch Giá

Rạch Giá offers a delightful array of local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage and cultural diversity. From fresh seafood to savory soups, the culinary scene is vibrant and must-try.

Rạch Giá Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh Canh

A thick noodle soup made from tapioca flour, often served with shrimp, fish, and herbs.

Must-Try!

Hủ Tiếu

A noodle soup with a clear broth, typically garnished with various meats, vegetables, and herbs.

Gỏi Cá

A fresh fish salad, usually made with marinated fish, herbs, and a tangy dressing.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Rạch Giá Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.

Night Market

A vibrant night market offering a variety of street food options, including grilled meats and sweet desserts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Rạch Giá experiences a tropical climate characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season (November to April) sees temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) with low humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The rainy season (May to October) brings higher humidity and temperatures, often exceeding 30°C (86°F) with frequent afternoon showers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; greet them first and use polite language.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or religious sites, dress conservatively and remove shoes when required.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating first and avoid pointing your feet at others while seated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Rạch Giá is generally safe for tourists, but it's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Keep your belongings secure and be cautious when using ATMs. Common scams can occur, so trust your instincts and seek assistance from reputable sources if needed.

Tipping in Rạch Giá

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

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

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, credit cards are accepted in larger establishments. Ensure to have local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to April)

Expect warm, dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Rainy Season (May to October)

Prepare for heavy rains and occasional flooding; it's best to have flexible plans.

Tet Festival (January/February)

Experience vibrant celebrations, local customs, and special dishes during the Lunar New Year.

Summer Holidays (June to August)

A popular time for local families and tourists; expect crowded attractions and festive activities.

Nightlife Guide

Rạch Giá at Night

Rạch Giá offers a lively nightlife scene with a mix of local bars, karaoke lounges, and cafes. The Rạch Giá Night Market transforms into a vibrant hub in the evening, where locals and tourists gather to enjoy street food and shopping. For a more relaxed evening, there are several waterfront cafes where you can enjoy the sea breeze and live music.

Hiking in Rạch Giá

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Ba Na

A popular hiking destination offering scenic views and a moderate trail suitable for various fitness levels.

Hon Chong

A coastal hiking trail that provides stunning views of the ocean and surrounding islands, ideal for nature lovers.

Airports

How to reach Rạch Giá by plane.

Rạch Giá Airport (VKG)

Located approximately 10 km from the city center, Rạch Giá Airport offers domestic flights to Ho Chi Minh City and other destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Rạch Giá is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. However, some areas may lack sidewalks, making it less safe for pedestrians. It's advisable to stay on main roads and use caution when crossing streets.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh

The largest ethnic group in Vietnam, the Kinh people are predominant in Rạch Giá, influencing its culture and lifestyle.

Khmer

The Khmer community has a significant presence in Rạch Giá, contributing to the cultural diversity and local traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Rạch Giá, with local teams regularly playing in regional leagues.

Basketball

Basketball is gaining popularity among the youth, with many local courts available for play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Rạch Giá can be congested, especially during peak hours. Motorbikes are the primary mode of transportation, and it's common to see buses and cars on the roads. Public transportation options are limited, but taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are available for convenience.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Rạch Giá.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask for specific preparations.

Seafood Allergies

Given the abundance of seafood, those with allergies should be cautious and communicate clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Rạch Giá includes several local clinics and hospitals. The main hospital, Kiên Giang General Hospital, provides basic medical services, but for specialized care, traveling to larger cities like Ho Chi Minh City may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance and access to necessary medications.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide