Visit Vinh Long – Official Vinh Long Travel Guide
Planning a holiday to Vinh Long? Discover top reasons to go, best time to visit, tours and free itineraries, history and hidden gems with the official guide! Find out what to do, where to go, where to stay and what to eat in Vinh Long from the local travel experts who know it best. If you’re not able to visit just yet, plan ahead to make the most of your wish-lists.
By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Visitor Guide To Can Tho | Chau Doc | Soc Trang | Ben Tre | Cai Be | Vinh Long | My Tho | Tra Vinh | Sa Dec | Bac Lieu | Ca Mau | Hau Giang
Welcome to Vinh Long City
Vinh Long is located in the Mekong Delta region, about 140km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City, 40km from Tra Noc Intl airport of Can Tho City. The city itself has long been famous for its fruit orchards and surrounding islets where fruits are produced and exported. With a convenient location, this city is a good place for you to admire the islet homestays with isolated villages and off the beaten tracks and much unique beauty of local culture. Lush and heavily cultivated with both rice and fruit gardens, the province is criss-crossed with canals and tributaries all flowing into the teeming rivers that form its borders. It’s not surprising that the name Vinh Long translates to “eternal prosperity”. The city was built on the bank of the Cô Chiên River, which branches off from the larger Mekong River.
If Vinh Long rings even the faintest of bells, it may be because you once saw The Lover, a film more known for its explicit love scenes than anything else. The main male character is from Vinh Long, and it’s on a ferry between there and Sa Đéc that he meets our narrator and main female character. While we did see that film as a teen, we first remember hearing of Vinh Long and wanting to visit when we saw this photo.
Top Reasons to Go
Vinh Long Pottery & Brick Kingdom
There are hundred old brick and pottery factories in Vinh Long which are super impressive and unique to see when you travel to Vinh Long.
Cai Be Floating Market
Unfortunately the floating market of Cai Be is getting smaller every year, since trade is shifting more and more into modern central markets. The Catholic cathedral in the background of the floating market is an awesome motive for photos.
Stunning canals, wild islets and hidden homestay
In the Mekong Delta, life is lived on the water. Rivers and canals wind through the region, and locals grow up paddling boats and travelling by ferry. Get a taste of this unique culture by taking a sampan to explore small canals and mangrove forests. Women typically row sampans standing up while skillfully navigating the currents and twists of each waterway. You also can explore the area very well by bicycle riding on narrow roads along small side canals. Many of the small shady canals, which branch off from the larger river arms, are hard to spot, because they are overgrown by lush greenery.
Mekong Delta Cruises
Cai Be river is the meeting point of the river tributaries of Tien Giang, Vinh Long and Ben Tre. This town has many cruises for tourists who are passionate about exploring nature and the majestic Mekong river. Mekong excursions can last for the day, overnight, or even cross-country between Vietnam and Cambodia and Laos. With the advantage of the mighty Mekong river, more and more tourists choose Cai Be as the place to start the trip of a lifetime - the Mekong Delta expedition.
Mekong River Islands
What makes a trip to Vinh Long worthwhile is not the town but the beautiful islands dotting the river. The islands are dedicated to agriculture, especially the growing of tropical fruits, which are shipped to markets in HCMC. This low-lying region is as much water as land and houses are generally built on stilts. Some of the more popular islands to visit include Binh Hoa Phuoc and An Binh, but there are many others. You can take the public ferry to one of the islands and then walk or cycle around on your own.
Getting here and around
As a central town of Mekong Delta, Vinh Long is getting easier for everyone to get there and get around. It also means that traveling to the town won’t take much sweat, especially when you get here by public bus, car via the highway. We will break this down in detail, so check the information below to choose your best vehicle option.
Air travel: Currently, there aren’t any direct flights to Vinh Long. The nearest one is Tan Son Nhat intl airport and Tra Noc intl (Can Tho) airport.
Bus travel: From Ho Chi Minh city to Vinh Long. The best bus company for getting from Saigon to Vinh Long is the Futa Bus Lines company or Thanh Buoi Bus Lines. You can catch a bus from the Western bus station (address: 395 Kinh Duong Vuong, An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City) with the time to travel to Vinh Long is 3 hours, to buy tickets or contact system of specialized vehicles running Saigon – Vinh Long route such as: Phuong Trang (futa bus lines), add in Saigon: 272 De Tham, District 1. Tel: (08) 38375570. Once you’ve arrived at the Vinh Long Bus Station, take a taxi to your Vinh Long accommodation. Or, if taking the Futa bus line, take the complimentary transportation van which goes to certain areas in 10 km distance. For your return trip, you can pre-book your tickets or have your accommodation help reserve the tickets for you. If you choose to stay at Vinh Long homestays in the islet, you’ll want the bus driver to drop you off at the Cuu Long B (facing the An Binh ferry) hotel where the boat station is. The locals from the homestays will arrange to pick you up in a boat when you arrive at the harbor.
Bus travel: From Can Tho to Vinh Long. Take the public bus as Futa bus line or Thanh Buoi bus line. Super easy to have a ticket. These buses are great and new and AC and depart from Can Tho to HCMC every 15 minutes. On the way, you just tell the driver to drop you off in Vinh Long. The bus ticket is about 120,000 VND.
Boat travel: Not a public boat yet. But it is quite typical to see some tourists book a customized boat trip from Can Tho to Vinh Long or Vinh Long to Can Tho for both exploring the Mekong river and avoiding the long drive with the traffic.
Speed Boat travel: From HCMC to Vinh Long. Not yet
Speed Boat travel: From Can Tho to Vinh Long. Not yet
Cruises: There are daily overnight cruises from Can Tho Vinh Long to Cai Be and Cai Be Vinh Long to Can Tho. Cai Be river is the meeting point of the river tributaries of Mekong river. This town has many cruises for tourists who are passionate about exploring nature and the majestic Mekong river. Mekong excursions can last for the day, overnight, or even cross-country between Vietnam and Cambodia and Laos. With the advantage of the mighty Mekong river, more and more tourists choose Cai Be as the place to start the trip of a lifetime - the Mekong Delta expedition.
Train travel: Not yet.
Bicycle and motorcycle travel: While it’s possible to rent a motorbike to explore the delta, Vinh Long city center and the wonderful An Binh islet, most visitors choose to utilize the free bicycles offered by most resorts and homestays. The roads are bumpy and occasionally muddy but the distances are relatively short. You’ll notice that many of the locals opt to travel by bike as well so you’ll be in good company.
Ferry travel: Two passenger ferries run between the Vinh Long mainland and the island of An Binh islet in the middle of the Mekong River. An Binh ferry (facing the Cuu Long B hotel) is the first ferry leaving from the town of Vinh Long near the tourist pier and drops you on the South end of An Binh islet. Dinh Khao ferry is the second ferry leaves from further downriver near the village of Hoa Phuoc and drops you closer to the Hai Dao homestay on An Binh islet as well. This allows you to make a loop on your bicycle. The ferries run about every 10 minutes so you’ll never have to wait long to cross. You can ride your bicycle or motorbike up the ramp and onto the boat. The fare is ~4,500 VND ($0.20) for a person plus a bicycle. You don’t need to buy a ticket before you board – someone will come around to collect payment during the river crossing.
Best time to Visit Vinh Long
Vinh Long welcomes you in any season all year round, each of which will certainly offer you specifically different types of pleasure and satisfaction. However, the best time to visit Vinh Long is from September to March. The weather is cool and pretty comfortable, so you can join any activity that you like.
Floating season (September – December): It is the best time to visit Vinh Long and the Mekong Delta region in general. You can go fishing in our traditional wooden boats, discover pristine nature and spend time in some orchards.
Rainy season (May – October): It is not a bad choice when traveling to Vinh Long during rainy seasons since the rains are short and will not affect your trip.
Dry season (January – April): It is hot and dry during this time, however, it is harvesting time here and you can enjoy fruit picking activities with the locals.
Vinh Long Tourist Attractions
Vinh Long Pottery & Brick Kiln Factory
Book Cai Be Vinh Long Daily Tours:
Transfer from HCMC to Can Tho with boat SightSeeing & Coconut candy
Cai Be Tour From Ho Chi Minh 1 Day
Cai Be River Tour From Can Tho 1 Day
Cai Be River Tour & Vinh Long Islet Homestay 2D1N
Vinh Long secret tour from Can Tho 1 day
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
hello@vemekong.com
There are hundred old brick and pottery factories in Mang Thit Vinh Long which are super impressive and unique to see when you travel to Vinh Long… Read more info & pictures
Blog: /a-guide-to-brick-kilns-in-vinh-long-ben-tre-and-can-tho-city/
Vinh Long Sampan Ride in Small Canals
Cai Be – Vinh Long hand-rowing sampan (small boat) is one of the authentic and traditional boats that the Mekong peoples used to have for the markets, floating markets, traveling around, loading goods and even for the wedding.
Sampan in Cai Be Vinh Long can accommodate about 4 adults with the small size, and 8 adults with the bigger one… Read more info & pictures
Blog: /cai-be-floating-market-small-canals/
Puffed Rice Cake Traditional Village In Vinh Long
Ticket: Free
Spend-time: One hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dusk
Food: Yes, traditional candy, rice cakes, jasmine tea, snake wine…
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes, boat, car, coach
Blog: /pop-rice-cake-traditional-village-cai-be-vinh-long-mekong-delta/
Address: If you travel from Ho Chi Minh City, you can visit Cai Be pop rice village (112km). If you travel from Can Tho City, you can visit Vinh Long popped rice village (40km).
Added values: One of the Delta’s specialities is a crispy puffed rice snack which comes in a variety of flavours. And any traveller passing through the area should certainly not pass up the chance to witness its fascinating manufacturing process.
Whole grains of rice with their husks intact are poured into a large pot that’s previously been filled with black sand from the Mekong River.
This decades-old technique of cooking pop-rice begins with pouring whole grains of rice (including husk) into a large, wok-shaped pot filled along with black Mekong River sand over fire. As the worker stirs the mixture, the rice then launches into an explosive spectacle for the eyes and ears.
The popped rice is then filtered through a mesh screen twice, first to sift out the black sand and once again to remove the remaining rice husks (which are then used as fuel for the fire).
As the mixture is stirred over a fire, the rice begins to puff and pop, and it is later filtered twice through a mesh in order to remove the black sand and the remaining husks. The crispy rice is then placed into another wok-shaped pot and mixed with a syrup consisting of sugar and water… Read more info & pictures
Coconut Candy Traditional Village in Vinh Long
If you plan to visit Mekong Delta, coconut candy village and boat trip in small canals is also one of the most highlight things to do, see, eat and shop in Cai Be, Ben Tre, My Tho, Vinh Long.
Ticket: Free
Spend-time: One hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dusk
Food: Yes, traditional candy, cakes, tea, coconut wine…
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes, boat, car, coach
Blog: /travel-guide-to-coconut-candy-village-small-canal-ben-tre-cai-be-vinh-long-my-tho/
Address: If you travel from Ho Chi Minh City, you can visit Cai Be coconut-processing village (112km). If you travel from Can Tho City, you can visit Vinh Long coconut-processing village (40km). If you travel from Ho Chi Minh City, you can visit Ben Tre coconut-processing village (90km).
Added values: If you visit Ben Tre, Cai Be, My Tho, Vinh Long, don’t leave without trying the coconut candy. Good luck and bon appétit! And any traveller passing through the area should certainly not pass up the chance to witness its fascinating manufacturing process.
Vietnamese coconut candy is one of the most popular candies in Vietnam with its sweetness of sugar, as well as the fragrance and natural fatty taste of coconut. This is also an ideal souvenir for tourists traveling to Vietnam. According to the residents, Vietnam coconut candy first appeared in Mo Cay District, Ben Tre province of Mekong Delta in the 1930s. Initially known as Mo Cay candy, it was a homemade treat served to guests during festive seasons or the Tet holiday. Since 1970 it has become more well-known and been produced on a larger scale. Because of this, the specialty has gained popularity and become a staple in Ben Tre, My Tho Cai Be, Vinh Long visitors’ gift baskets.
Mekong Delta’s Coconut candy-making process. Coconut candy is relatively simple to make with widely available ingredients. Candy makers’ keen eyes ensure each component is of the highest quality. The three main ingredients are malt syrup, sugar, and coconut… Read more info & pictures
Tra On Floating Market
On a stream branching off from the Hau River, the Tra On Floating Market has become a highlight of Vinh Long Province. Instead of sitting in stalls, vendors fill their boats with a variety of products like fresh produce, handmade crafts, and home cooked meals. Somewhat chaotic at times, the market is certainly a unique way to experience the local lifestyle. Top Tip: Now this market has only about 5 boats as we know. We hope you enjoy the river excursion instead of the “used to Tra On floating market”… Read more info & pictures
Blog: /tra-on-floating-market-vinh-long/
Vinh Long Kayaking and Canalling
Depending on where you’re staying, your homestay or hotel will probably have a list of activities you can choose from.
On the islets, there are many small canals and less boat traffic which is quite fun for kayaking activity. The muddy fresh water may be interesting in the low tide. It is fun to do in the afternoon. Make sure you put a life jacket on! Safety is priority.
Vinh Long Cycling Tour
This is a favourite thing to do in Vinh Long, Mekong Delta. While biking or driving a scooter only induces panic and stress in Vietnam’s big cities, the bicycle is actually enjoyable in Vietnam’s small towns. Be sure to pin your hotel or homestay’s location on your map when you embark on your journey: there are a lot of twists and turns to these roads that could get you confused.
If you take a ferry to another island, don’t be worried if your Google Maps feature just shows a block of green, without mapping any actual roads. Just learn or write down the phrase “Phà ở đâu?” (Where is the ferry?) Show someone this and give them the name and address of your accommodation; that will probably get you where you need to be.
An Binh Islet
An Binh islet of Vinh Long City is an islet in the Mekong River accessed via a five-minute ferry ride. The island is a tropical haven. Narrow channels criss-cross the land, creating rich soil that Cai Be Vinh Long farmers cultivate to grow delicious fruits. Plump jackfruits, rambutans, mangoes and mangosteens hang heavy from trees that cover every inch of the island. Give yourself an afternoon to explore the tiny lanes of the islet by bicycle. Ride over tiny bridges and along the water’s edge, all the while surrounded by lush greenery. Consisting of 4 communes, at An Binh islet, the locals also produce various goods like rice wine, rice paper, coconut candy, and Com candy. An Binh islet tours of the islet are available and it is the best way to visit the island. With a tour, travelers won’t have to worry about transportation and with the extensive knowledge of the guides, you’ll be able to learn more about the cultivation of fruit in Vinh Long… Read more info & pictures
Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda (Jade Buddha)
Coming here, in addition to praying sincerely to Buddha, finding a peaceful place to relieve sorrow, the space of this temple makes us imagine this is a miniature ancient film set.
First, let's learn about the history of the formation of the Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda (Jade Buddha) in Vinh Long.
The origin of this Shari stupa was the idea of Most Venerable Thich Thien Hoa. Because, in 1970 Venerable NaraDa invited three Buddha relics, from Nepal India to donate to the Southern Vietnamese Buddhist Association in Vinh Long province, from which Venerable Thich Thien Hoa initiated the construction of the stupa to worship Buddha relics and establish the Buddhist Cultural Center.
By 1972, the construction of a ground floor and two floors had to be unfinished because of the lack of funds, partly due to the influence of the war. From 1975 to 2008, the Bao Thap was abandoned and suffered from ruin. In 2010, the Stone Laying Ceremony started to build the Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda in Vinh Long… Read more info & pictures
Vinh Sang Eco-Tourism
On the river next to Vinh Long City, the Vinh-Sang Eco-Tourism Area is a small farm where rare animals are housed. Featuring bears, goats, deer, boar, and monkeys, the area has become a fun attraction for travelers with families. Activities at the Vinh-Sand Eco-Tourism Area include slides, shooting games, fishing, riding an ostrich and " fishing crocodile in a 200m2 wide lake". Tourists can take a boat from Vinh Long to visit the area. It is quite common for Vietnamese tourists too… Read more info & pictures
Mang Thit Pottery Village
Mang Thit Terracotta Village is one of the places that have the largest craft brick and pottery kilns in the Mekong Delta. Leaving the busy urban area, you should have a look at Mang Thit when coming to Vinh Long. Mang Thit not only allows you to admire the remnants of the ancient brick kingdom, but this place also brings you to immerse yourself in the peaceful and tranquil atmosphere even though there is still a little sadness… Read more info & pictures
Don Ca Tai Tu folk music
The people of the Mekong Delta are known for their love of music. Don Ca Tai Tu, a Vietnamese style of folk opera originally from the Mekong Delta, is a mix of ballads and theatre accompanied by a musician playing a zither or, in modern renditions, a guitar. The amusing storylines are often set in Vietnam’s countryside and can be lighthearted, sorrowful, or both. Regardless of language barriers, it’s easy to enjoy Don Ca Tai Tu, thanks to expressive acting and melodious singing. Cai Be Vinh Long gardens and homestays, Tân Phong Islet, An Binh islet, are some of the places that perform Don Ca Tai Tu music throughout the day and at dinner time.
Van Thanh Mieu Temple
(Phan Thanh Gian Temple; Ð Tran Phu; 5-11am & 1-7pm) Confucian temples such as this are rare in southern Vietnam. The front hall honours local hero Phan Thanh Gian, who led an uprising against the French colonists in 1930. When it became obvious that his revolt was doomed, Phan killed himself rather than be captured by the colonial army. The rear hall, built in 1866, has a portrait of Confucius above the altar… Read more info & pictures
Vinh Long FarmStay
Vinh Long Fruit Garden
Ticket:20,000 VND – 100,000 VND (fruit, food)
Spend-time: A half day (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dust
Food:Yes
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: /vinh-long-fruit-garden/
Address: An Binh islet, May islet, Vinh Long
Added values: Coming to Vinh Long fruit garden, visitors will be immersed in the fresh nature filled with green trees and ripe fruits according to color. Especially, if you come to the garden in the summer, when the fruit garden is in full bloom, the scent spreads throughout the garden.
You can visit Vinh Long fruit gardens at any time of the year. However, summer will be the time when the orchards are most fruitful. This is also the time when Vinh Long people harvest many kinds of fruit to sell to traders and export to other countries.
The best time for you to explore Vinh Long fruit gardens is from June to August. Around this time, you can come here to check in “virtual living”; and hand-harvested fruits such as rambutan, durian, longan, etc… Read more info & pictures
Vinh Long Tours and Free itineraries
As a local travel expert in Vinh Long, here is some options for your Vinh Long discovery:
Itinerary 1: Vinh Long Excursion from Vinh Long city center (full day)
Itinerary 2: Vinh Long Tour from HCMC 1 Day (full day)
Itinerary 3: Vinh Long Tour from Can Tho 1 Day (full day)
Itinerary 4: Cai Be & Vinh Long Tour from HCMC 1 Day (full day)
Itinerary 5: Cai Be Vinh Long Homestay Tour from HCMC 2 Day (2 days)
Itinerary 6: Cai Be Vinh Long & Can Tho Tour from HCMC (2 days)
Book Cai Be Vinh Long Daily Tours:
Transfer from HCMC to Can Tho with boat SightSeeing & Coconut candy
Cai Be Tour From Ho Chi Minh 1 Day
Cai Be River Tour From Can Tho 1 Day
Cai Be River Tour & Vinh Long Islet Homestay 2D1N
Vinh Long secret tour from Can Tho 1 day
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
hello@vemekong.com
If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. But there are much more than tourist sites like these in Vinh Long. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life, wildlife and forest as well. Top tip: Stay in a homestay nearby, so you have more chances to visit it and surroundings. If you are looking for the package Can Tho day tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com
Vinh Long Homestays and Hotels
Hai Dao homestay
This is a real local original house and used as a homestay and an amazing real life touch. The owner is the one who hosts the homestay. They cook well and well-behavior and the kids are so cutie and just like staying in a house in Mekong Delta. Contact us if you need help.
Ut Trinh Homestay
Just like any homestay, many rooms! Pro and cool and safe in the countryside, great for big groups too and the host is a local too. They know the international guests so well like we know you are reading now.
Ut Thuy homestay
Just like any homestay, many rooms! Pro and cool and safe in the countryside, great for big groups too and the host is a local too. They know the international guests so well like we know you are reading now.
Cocohome homestay
A 4000-coconut-tree homestay! Worth staying, the hosts are all locals. All things are good and good prices.
Mekong Nature Lodge
Just like any homestay, many rooms! Pro and swimming pool and safe in the countryside, great for big groups too and the host is a local too. They know the international guests so well like we know you are reading now.
An Binh Hotel
Address: 3 Hoang Thai Hieu, Ward 1, Vinh Long City, Vinh Long, Vinh Long
Tel: (070) 3282514
Cuu Long B Hotel
Vinh Long Markets, Shopping and Souvenirs
Vinh Long Market
Vinh Long Food and Drink
Vinh Long pop rice and coconut candy
Ticket: Free
Spend-time: One hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dusk
Food: Yes, traditional candy, rice cakes, jasmine tea, snake wine…
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes, boat, car, coach
Blog: /pop-rice-cake-traditional-village-cai-be-vinh-long-mekong-delta/
Address: If you travel from Ho Chi Minh City, you can visit Cai Be pop rice village (112km). If you travel from Can Tho City, you can visit Vinh Long popped rice village (40km).
Added values: One of the Delta’s specialities is a crispy puffed rice snack which comes in a variety of flavours. And any traveller passing through the area should certainly not pass up the chance to witness its fascinating manufacturing process… Read more info & pictures
Elephant Ear Fish (fried giant gourami)
The guests will be served a crispy and beautifully fried Elephant Ear Fish (Gourami), displayed majestically on wooden holders. A server helped us take the meat from the body, which we rolled into fresh spring rolls and enjoyed with the traditional fish-sauce-and-chilli combo… Read more info & pictures
Dong Khanh VIETNAMESE
On 49 Ð 2 Thang 9; mains from 30,000d; 6am-6pm. Popular and spacious Dong Khanh (the name means ‘celebrate together’) offers a varied menu, including hotpots, pork noodles, roast chicken and Cantonese rice. English-language menu.
Phuong Thuy VIETNAMESE
On Ð Phan B Chau; mains from 30,000d; 6am-10pm. Decent choice by the riverside, but it can fill up with tour groups.
Hoa Nang Cafe CAFE, BAR
On Ð 1 Thang 5; iced coffee 7000d; 7am-11pm. Perched on the riverbank, this is a good place to enjoy an iced coffee or scented tea in the morning or to quaff your first beer back on dry land after a river trip.
Quán Com Chay Âu Lac Vinh Long for vegetarians
Co May Restaurant
Anh Thu Restaurant
Duc Phat Hoang Gia Restaurant
Hu tieu hoanh thanh local food (Rice noodle soup with wonton)
Hu Tieu Hong Mai local eat
Address: No. 98, 1/5 Street, Vinh Long Province
While “pho” is the hottest dish in Ho Chi Minh City, then “hu tieu” (noodle soup) will be the queen of the Mekong Delta. It’s usually eaten for breakfast here to energize farmers. However, nowadays, “hu tieu” is made into various versions yet maintains its unique flavor. The most popular one is “hu tieu hoanh thanh” that will make a strong impression on you.
Lau Cua Dong Banh Xeo Cam Nhung – local eat
Address: Phuoc Hau, Long Ho District, Vinh Long Province. The hotpot version of Vinh Long is a famous delicacy locals love the most in the summer. Its flavor can help remove the heat, and enchant people to come and try it. For those who are fed up with meat, then this is a good idea to try rice-field crabs instead! The food is not just simple but also delicious and aromatic.
Sau rieng Ri 6 (Ri 6 durians) – Must-try fruit
Address: Phuoc Dinh 1, Binh Hoa Phuoc, Long Ho District, Vinh Long Province
For several foreign tourists, eating durians is not an easy task due to their strange smell. But once you try Ri 6 durians, I bet that you will stop thinking like that! Breaking off the outward crust, you can see each segment inside shining bright. Get your appetite ready for tasting! How about its name? Well, it’s named Ri6 after the name of mister. Sau Ri, who made it in 1990. This type of durian brings out a bright yellowish shade, like the Musang King durian in Malaysia.
Vinh Long Hidden Gems
Le Longanier Restaurant
It is a very great french-style house in the green little jungle garden. A romantic place to chill during your holiday. It is in Cai Be – Vinh Long.
Ticket:Free
Spend-time: Two hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – Dusk
Food:Yes
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: /le-longanier-restaurant-tien-giang/
Address: 49 Hamlet 5 Phu An Village, Cai Lay, Tien Giang, Vietnam.
Added values: Open for lunch only. Advance reservations are highly recommended… Read more info & pictures
Phu Ly Khmer Pagoda
Ticket: Free
Spend-time: One and a half hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dusk
Food: No
Shop: No
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: /phu-ly-khmer-pagoda/
Address: Phu Ly Khmer Pagoda is located in Dong Thanh Commune, Binh Minh Town, Vinh Long Province
Added values: More particularly, Khmer Phu Ly Pagoda is an ancient temple in Vinh Long with beautiful and peaceful landscape. This building is the interference between Indian, Thai and Cambodian architecture, creating a unique feature that few temples have.
At the Dong Thanh Commune, visitors can tour the Khmer Pu Ly Pagoda, which is an ancient place of worship that was originally built by the Khmer people. Featuring a unique blend of Indian, Thai, and Cambodian architecture, the pagoda is a historic gem for the Vinh Long Pagoda. Having stood for almost 350 years, tourists can view the numerous pictures of Buddha in the temple halls or take a peaceful moment to view the majestic Buddha statue in the garden. The temple is open on a daily basis and it welcomes all visitors… Read more info & pictures
Cai Cuong Ancient House
Ticket: 20,000VND
Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dusk
Food: Yes
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: /cai-cuong-ancient-house/
Address: Binh Hoa Phuoc commune, Long Ho District, Vinh Long province.
Added values: There is a unique building when it has a harmonious combination between modern Western architecture mixed with ancient East Asian features. Experiencing many restorations, but the arrangement and decoration inside is still intact.
Originally built in 1885, Cai Cuong Ancient House blends traditional Vietnamese architecture with a French colonial style. A beautiful building, the details are in the ceramic tiles, doors, and decorations. Within the home, carved columns depict Vietnamese flora and fauna, as well as rivers and landscapes … Read more info & pictures
May Islet
Ticket: 25,000 VND (the fruit garden), 50,000 VND (the fruit garden and picking fruits from the gardens)
Spend-time: Half day (approx)
Hours: Dawn – dusk
Food: Yes
Shop: Yes
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: /may-islet-vinh-long/
Address: Luc Si Thanh commune, Tra On District, Vinh Long province.
Added values: Referring to the islets on the Hau River, it is impossible not to mention May Island in Vinh Long. May Islet, also known as Luc Si Thanh Islet, belongs to two communes: Luc Si Thanh in the south and Phu Thanh in the north of Tra On district, Vinh Long province. With cool fresh air, charming rivers, poetic landscapes will make you remember this land forever.
Covering the Phu Thanh and Luc Si Thanh Communes, Islet May is a small island in the Hau River. Famous for its fruit gardens, which grow throughout the year, tourists visiting the island can try Vietnamese favorites like rambutan, grapefruit, and longan. A small restaurant on the island serves traditional meals like chicken porridge, lemongrass chicken, and Vietnamese hot pot… Read more info & pictures
Vinh Long History and Culture
Vinh Long History
The Vinh Long city’s history is closely connected to the province's history, which dates back to 1732. The Nguyen Lords found Long Ho Dinh, including Vinh Long, Ben Tre, Tra Vinh, and parts of Can Tho. Vinh Long province then witnessed the fighting between the Tay Son brothers and the Nguyen Lords as well as the victory of Nguyen Hue when he defeated Siamese forces assisting Nguyen Anh in the late 18th century. In the following years, the province was repeatedly combined with and separated from the others. Until 1991, Vinh Long was finally recognized as a province with 7 main districts, 1 district-level town, and 1 provincial city of the same name. Vinh Long City has been an official city since 2009 and consists of 11 wards.
Don Ca Tai Tu
The people of the Mekong Delta are known for their love of music. Don Ca Tai Tu, a Vietnamese style of folk opera originally from the Mekong Delta, is a mix of ballads and theatre accompanied by a musician playing a zither or, in modern renditions, a guitar. The amusing storylines are often set in Vietnam’s countryside and can be lighthearted, sorrowful, or both. Regardless of language barriers, it’s easy to enjoy Don Ca Tai Tu, thanks to expressive acting and melodious singing. Cai Be Vinh Long gardens and homestays, Tân Phong Islet, are some of the places that perform Don Ca Tai Tu music throughout the day and at dinner time.
Vinh Long Museum
Ticket:Free
Spend-time: One hour (approx)
Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Food:Yes
Shop: No
Parking lot: Yes
Blog: /vinh-long-museum/
Address: Phan Boi Chau, Ward 1, Vinh Long City, Vinh Long
Added values: The museum is located on an open and airy campus with many ancient trees, which is a place containing ancient cultural heritages – now recreating a whole process of exploration, formation, and development of Vinh Long province.
With an open and green campus, ancient trees; The exhibition areas are spread out, suitable, in harmony with nature… The cultural heritages of the past and present recreate a whole process of exploration, formation and development of the former Long Ho palace and present day Vinh Long... Read more info & pictures
Vinh Long Nightlife
Vinh Long Festivals, Sports and Outdoor Activities
Vinh Long Health and Safety
Dos and Don’ts for Your Trip to Vinh Long
Practical tips: Ways to save, Internet, Water, Learn a little Vietnamese and pro Tips
Ways to save:
Stay somewhere with free breakfast. Many budget hotels offer free breakfast to guests.
Eat street food. Food stalls are cheap and plentiful and are a great place to try regional specialities.
Travel by bicycle/motorbike. These two-wheeled bikes are among the cheapest ways to get around Can Tho and Mekong Delta region.
Stick to free attractions. If you’re really tight for cash, attractions such as markets cost nothing.
Can Tho group tours. If you want to see and learn as much as possible with your limited time.
Internet:
Free Wi-Fi can be found everywhere from hotels to coffee shops. If you are from the EU you should be able to use your own data plan too. Or contact the hotel for the sim card.
Water:
Tap water is supposed to be safe but I advise against drinking it. It’s just not worth the risk. My advice is to use bottled water and save yourself from unexpected stomach problems.
Learn a little Vietnamese:
Sure, you can get by with just speaking English, but trying to speak the local language opens you up to much more polite & meaningful interactions with people. Even if you are not perfect or you make a mistake, your effort is appreciated. At a bare minimum: Hello = xin chao (sin chow), yes = dạ vâng, no = không (khom), thank you = cám ơn (kahm uhn), I’m sorry = tôi xin lỗi (toy sin loy), no problem/you’re welcome = không có gì (khong koh zi), goodbye = tạm biệt (tarm byeet), I’m vegetarian = tôi ăn chay (toy an chayh), How much? = bao nhiêu? (baow nyew), spicy/hot (cay), Oh My God (ôi..choy...oi…).
Pro Tips:
Best time to visit Cai Be floating market is from 5:30am-6:30am. I hope you have an amazing sunrise on the Mekong Delta river.
You can stay in a homestay which is near the floating market, this will help you out the best option. Then you can hire a scooter, car or bike and explore it by yourself, but you still need to hire a boat for the Cai Be floating market.
If you plan to extend your travel to Cai Be Vinh Long homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.
Visit Vinh Long or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Vinh Long responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.
Vinh Long food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Vinh Long cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Hu Tieu My Tho (a kind of noodle soup but it is really yummy), elephant ear fish, snails with pepper, rambutan jam, snake wine, coconut candy, pop rice, Durian Ri6…
Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.
Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Vinh Long in the rainy season, as Vinh Long always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.
Vinh Long tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Vinh Long brick & pottery kiln, Coconut candy village & sampan (small boat) ride in small canals, mighty Mekong river cruise, educational tour and community tour in Cai Be Vinh Long, Cai Be – Vinh Long homestay 2D1N, Cai Be floating market & small canals, amazing Vinh Long homestays on the islets, An Binh Islet, Vinh Long Fruit Garden, cocohome homestay, Puffed Rice Cake Traditional Village In Cai Be & Vinh Long, Cai Cuong Ancient House, May Islet (Luc Si Thanh Islet), Phu Ly Khmer Pagoda, Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda Vinh Long (Jade Buddha), Vinh Long Cycling Tours…
Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Vinh Long province, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!
“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.
Thank you
