Things To Do
in Sóc Trăng
Sóc Trăng is a coastal province in the Mekong Delta known for its multicultural heritage, riverside charm, and laid-back city life. The capital, Sóc Trăng City, is a microcosm of Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences visible in pagodas, markets, and colorful streets along the river. Visitors can wander along the waterfront, savor delta seafood, and explore ornate temples at a relaxed pace.
The region blends traditional crafts with river-based life, offering photographers and food lovers a vivid sense of southern Vietnam.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Sóc Trăng and settle into a cozy guesthouse by the Mekong Delta, greeted by the gentle rustle of palm fronds and canal breezes. Step out to a bustling street corner for a steaming bowl of hủ tiếu Nam Vang and sip aromatic cà phê sữa đá served in traditional glass tumblers. Let the vibrant sounds of morning vendors calling out their daily catch awaken your senses and spark excitement for the days ahead.
Head to the heart of town and immerse yourself in Sóc Trăng central market, where vivid arrays of exotic fruits, spices and handcrafted goods glisten under sun-dappled roofs. Practice your new Vietnamese phrases with friendly stall owners as you sample fresh sugarcane juice and crispy bánh bò thơm. Feel the lively rhythm of local life as shoppers drape colorful textiles and negotiate prices with warm smiles.
Stroll along the illuminated banks of the Vĩnh Châu canal and pause to watch fishermen untangle their nets under lantern light. Savor a dinner of grilled fish topped with aromatic herbs at a floating restaurant, accompanied by the gentle lapping of water against wooden stilts. Let the tranquilly of the river reflect the day’s discoveries before drifting off to the lullaby of cicadas.
Wake at dawn to explore Chùa Dơi, known as the Bat Pagoda, and watch thousands of fruit bats swirl overhead in a living dusk symphony. Listen to the creak of ancient wooden beams as monks chant in Khmer dialect, inviting you into their world of serene ritual. Feel your heart calm amidst gilded spires and dew-dappled courtyard statues.
Cycle to Chùa Phật Giáo Nam Tông to admire intricately carved stone pillars and vivid murals that narrate centuries of Khmer legend. Wander through shaded corridors where lotus blossoms float in emerald ponds, absorbing the hush of prayer bells and the scent of burning incense. Engage in respectful conversation with a resident monk to learn about the intertwined traditions of Theravada Buddhism and local folklore.
Return to town for a riverside vegetarian feast at a family-run eatery, sampling fragrant curries and steamed sweet cakes gifted by nearby farmers. Let the gentle glow of oil lamps guide your stroll along tiled walkways reflecting a tapestry of temple lights. Reflect on spiritual insights gathered beneath the quiet canopy of night sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚲Local transport (one-way) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-3 |
| 🍺Beer at a bar | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich multicultural heritage (Khmer, Hoa and Vietnamese influences)
- Laid-back pace and riverfront scenery
- Fresh seafood and affordable prices
- Good base for exploring the Mekong Delta
- Limited nightlife and international dining options
- Some sites may be less developed for first-time visitors
- Language barriers outside tourist hubs
- Weather can be humid and hot year-round
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Tôi muốn món chay" - I would like a vegetarian dish
Places to Visit in Sóc Trăng
Visit one of these nice places.
A striking Khmer-Buddhist temple known for pink towers and a visible roost of fruit bats at dusk.
Wide riverfront with coconut palm shadows, motorized boats and golden sunsets.
Colorful carvings, drums, and monks; morning light is ideal for portraits.
Photogenic scenes of delta life, boat docking, and lush greenery.
Food in Sóc Trăng
Sóc Trăng Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Crispy rice flour pancake with shrimp and bean sprouts, served with herbs and dipping fish sauce.
Must-Try!
Khmer-inspired noodle soup with fish, herbs and banana blossoms.
Flaky pastry filled with durian, mung bean or egg yolk; a sweet treat from the area.
Delicate fish porridge popular for breakfast and light meals.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market with fresh seafood, tropical fruit, herbs and breakfast stalls.
Night market offering street snacks, bánh pía, coffee and fruit shakes.
Casual stalls along the Hau River serving grilled seafood and noodles.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, remove shoes before entering temples, and avoid loud behavior.
A handshake is common; address elders with respect and use polite language.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially monks and children.
Safety
Tipping in Sóc Trăng
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Leave small tips for guides or drivers (5-20k VND) and rounding up bills at restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny, mostly dry days with lower humidity; ideal for city walks, temple visits and river trips, but can be hot at solar noon.
Frequent afternoon and evening showers; river levels rise, landscapes become lush, and evenings are cooler but humid.
Sóc Trăng at Night
Hiking in Sóc Trăng
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, easy trails along the Hau River and surrounding canals, ideal for easy hikes and golden hour photography.
Scenic rural walks through palm groves and agricultural lands near Mỹ Xuyên and surrounding areas.
Airports
How to reach Sóc Trăng by plane.
Major Mekong Delta hub about 120-150 km from Sóc Trăng; connects domestically and regionally; best transfer by road or bus.
Nearby coastal airport in Kien Giang Province with domestic flights; convenient for trips to Phu Quoc and the western delta.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights; longer drive to Sóc Trăng but possible route option.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest group, making up the core of daily life and commerce.
A significant minority with temples, language, and cultural festivals visible in the city.
Historically influential in commerce and cuisine; Chinese-Vietnamese culture is evident in temples and dishes.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and casual games are common on school grounds and parks.
A favorite pastime in parks and community centers; easy to join a friendly game.
Played in gymnasiums and outdoor courts across communities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sóc Trăng.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist at Buddhist temples and some veg-friendly eateries. Look for 'chay' items and communicate 'không thịt' when ordering; emphasize tofu and vegetables.