Vinh Long Travel Guide: Must-Visit Destinations in the Mekong Delta

A Cultural and Natural Gem in the Mekong Delta

Vinh Long, the vibrant heart of Vinh Long Province, is a cultural and culinary treasure in the Mekong Delta, nestled between the Tien and Hau Rivers with a 65 km East Sea coastline. Following Vietnam’s administrative reform, Vinh Long Province now includes Tra Vinh and Ben Tre wards, blending Kinh, Khmer (25% of 1.5 million residents), and Hoa traditions. Attracting 15,000 travelers annually, Vinh Long boasts iconic destinations like floating markets, lush orchards, and historic temples, with activity costs ranging from $5–$40 (125,000–1,000,000 VND) in a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F). These sites offer an immersive glimpse into the Mekong’s riverine life and rich heritage.

Legend Travel Group, a sustainable tourism leader since 2008, offers eco-friendly tours to Vinh Long’s top destinations, using bicycles and electric boats to connect travelers with local culture while minimizing environmental impact. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to book your adventure.

Administrative Note

Use “Vinh Long, Vinh Long Province” for navigation. As the Mekong Delta’s hub, Vinh Long is ideal for travelers seeking authentic destinations, from bustling markets to serene cultural sites.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group serves 15,000 travelers yearly across Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Myanmar, prioritizing sustainable tourism. Our Vinh Long tours feature eco-friendly transport, English-speaking guides sharing local insights, and partnerships with community-based providers to preserve Mekong Delta traditions. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours prior, and 24/7 support. Book through this guide for an immersive, responsible journey aligned with Vietnam’s green tourism vision.

Vinh Long’s unique blend of waterways, orchards, and cultural landmarks makes it a must-visit in the Mekong Delta. Below are the top destinations, updated with current information, pricing, and sustainable practices, replacing outdated references like Vinh Sang Tourist Area, which has diminished in appeal for international travelers.

1. Tra On Floating Market

• Description: Located on the Hau River in Tra On Ward, this vibrant floating market is a hub of wholesale boats trading fruits like Cam Xoan Tra On oranges ($3–$6/kg or 75,000–150,000 VND) and local dishes like Ca Tai Tuong ($2–$6 or 50,000–150,000 VND). Unlike other markets, its activity peaks with high tides, offering a dynamic experience of Mekong river commerce. Note: Cai Be Floating Market (in Tien Giang Province) is less lively due to improved road networks, making Tra On the preferred choice.

• Details:

  • Cost: Boat tour $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) for 2–3 hours, 4–8 passengers.

  • Location: Tra On Ward, 20 km from Vinh Long city center.

  • Access: Reach by Xanh SM electric taxi ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND) or motorboat from Vinh Long wharf.

  • Booking: Book through Legend Travel Group’s Mekong Food Tour ($80–$120) or local operators at Vinh Long wharf.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Choose human-powered sampans or electric motorboats; avoid plastic waste in waterways.

• Tip: Visit at 5:00–7:00 AM during high tide for peak activity; pair with a visit to Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda.

• Best Time: November–April for calm waters; May–October for lush scenery.

2. An Binh Island Orchards

• Description: Spanning 60 km², An Binh Island is a lush haven of fruit orchards and quiet villages, perfect for cycling and fruit picking. Taste Nam Roi pomelo ($2–$5/kg or 50,000–125,000 VND), Ri 6 durian ($6–$10/kg or 150,000–250,000 VND), or Chom Chom rambutan ($2–$5/kg or 50,000–125,000 VND). Visit Mekong Pottery Homestay for pottery workshops ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) or relax in hammocks.

• Details:

  • Cost: Ferry $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, 5–10 minutes); bicycle rental $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND); orchard tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Location: An Binh Island, 10 km from city center via ferry.

  • Access: Take a ferry from Vinh Long’s Cuu Long B Hotel dock; cycle or walk on the island.

  • Booking: Book through Legend Travel Group’s Fruit Tour ($80–$120) or rent bikes at the ferry dock.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Bicycles are zero-emission; support organic orchards and local homestays.

• Tip: Visit in the morning (6:00–10:00 AM) for cooler weather; pair with Tien Chau Pagoda.

• Best Time: December–April for fruit season; November–April for dry paths.

3. Van Thanh Mieu Temple

• Description: A rare Confucian temple built in 1864 along the Long Ho River, Van Thanh Mieu honors Confucius and Phan Thanh Gian, a Nguyen Dynasty mandarin who resisted French colonization. Recognized as a national historical relic in 1991, its Tam Quan gate, bonsai garden, and ancient trees create a serene atmosphere. Ceremonies on the 4th–5th days of the 7th lunar month and 12th–13th days of the 10th lunar month draw local devotees.

• Details:

  • Cost: Free entry; guided tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Location: Ward 4, 5 km southeast of Vinh Long city center.

  • Access: Cycle ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND) or Xanh SM electric taxi ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).

  • Booking: Book through Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Tour ($85–$130).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use bicycles or electric taxis; respect the temple’s sanctity.

• Tip: Visit in the morning (5:00–11:00 AM) for a peaceful experience; dress modestly (long pants, covered shoulders).

• Best Time: November–April for pleasant weather; lunar 7th and 10th months for ceremonies.

4. Mang Thit Brick Factory and Pottery Village

• Description: Known for its beehive-shaped kilns, Mang Thit village is the Mekong Delta’s largest hub for red brick and ceramic production, exporting across Vietnam. Observe traditional craftsmanship and buy souvenirs like pottery ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). The tranquil setting along canals offers a glimpse into rural industry.

• Details:

  • Cost: Boat tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND); workshops $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Location: Mang Thit village, 15 km from city center.

  • Access: Reach by motorboat or Xanh SM electric taxi ($8–$12 or 200,000–300,000 VND).

  • Booking: Book through Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Tour ($85–$130).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support artisans; choose electric boats for low-impact travel.

• Tip: Visit in the morning for active kilns; pair with a stop at Vinh Long Market.

• Best Time: November–April for pleasant weather.

5. Khmer Cultural Museum and Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda

• Description: In Tra Vinh Ward, the Khmer Cultural Museum preserves artifacts of the Khmer community’s spiritual and material life, while Phat Ngoc Xa Loi Pagoda features a striking Jade Buddha statue and vibrant Khmer architecture. These sites offer insight into the region’s Khmer heritage, especially during festivals like Ok Om Bok.

• Details:

  • Cost: Free entry to museum and pagoda; guided tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

  • Location: Tra Vinh Ward, 15 km from city center.

  • Access: Cycle ($2–$6/day or 50,000–150,000 VND) or Xanh SM electric taxi ($8–$12 or 200,000–300,000 VND).

  • Booking: Book through Legend Travel Group’s Cultural Tour ($85–$130).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support cultural preservation; use bicycles or electric taxis.

• Tip: Visit during Ok Om Bok (October/November) for performances; engage with locals about Khmer traditions.

• Best Time: October–November for festivals; November–April for pleasant weather.

• November–April (Dry Season, 24–32°C or 75.2–89.6°F): Ideal for boat tours, cycling, and temple visits with clear skies and moderate crowds (80–200 daily visitors). Book tours 1–2 weeks ahead.

• May–October (Rainy Season, 26–36°C or 78.8–96.8°F): Lush greenery and abundant fruits; fewer crowds (50–150 daily visitors). Perfect for indoor cultural experiences. Bring rain gear ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND). Last-minute bookings often available.

• Festival Seasons:

  • Ok Om Bok (October/November): Khmer festival with boat races and music, drawing 300+ visitors.

  • Chol Chnam Thmay (April): Khmer New Year with cultural feasts.

  • Lunar New Year (January/February): Vibrant markets; some sites may close briefly.

  • Ky Yen Festival (December–January, lunar 12th–18th): Honors village prosperity at local temples.

• Timing Tip: Morning visits (5:00–10:00 AM) for markets and orchards; evenings (5:00–9:00 PM) for cultural sites. Book festival tours 2–4 weeks ahead.

• From Ho Chi Minh City (135 km, 2.5–3.5 hours): Bus ($7–$15 or 175,000–375,000 VND) from Mien Tay Bus Station; Xanh SM electric taxi ($100–$130 or 2,500,000–3,250,000 VND); private car ($70–$90 or 1,750,000–2,250,000 VND).

• From Hanoi (1,700 km, 4.5–5 hours): Flight to Can Tho ($70–$140 or 1,750,000–3,500,000 VND) + taxi ($12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND); flight to Ho Chi Minh City ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND) + bus ($7–$15 or 175,000–375,000 VND).

• From Can Tho (40 km, 40–60 minutes): Taxi ($12–$18 or 300,000–450,000 VND); bus ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Navigation Tip: Save “Vinh Long, Vinh Long Province” in offline maps (Maps.me). Parking: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Opt for buses or Xanh SM taxis; book through Legend Travel Group for sustainable transport.

• Walking: Free, ideal for city center (1–3 km radius).

• Cyclo: $1–$4/hour (25,000–100,000 VND), eco-friendly.

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND), sustainable.

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Ferry to An Binh Island: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, 5–10 minutes).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize bicycles or electric taxis; book through Legend Travel Group.

• Tip: Confirm fares upfront; rent bikes near Vinh Long Market or ferry docks.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight, breathable attire, sturdy sandals, hat; waterproof poncho ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season; modest clothing for temples.

• Gear: Reusable water bottle ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), reusable tote ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), biodegradable hand wipes.

• Essentials: Compact umbrella ($3–$6), hand sanitizer, mosquito repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), sunscreen ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($6–$12 or 150,000–300,000 VND).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

Destination and Activity Costs

• Boat Tours (Tra On): $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Orchard Tours (An Binh): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Temple Entry (Van Thanh Mieu): Free; guided tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Pottery Workshops (Mang Thit): $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Khmer Museum/Pagoda: Free; guided tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Market Purchases: $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND).

Transport Costs (Local)

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$6/day (50,000–150,000 VND).

• Ferry: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Electric Taxi: $0.50–$1/km (12,500–25,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $15–$30 (self-guided cycling, market snacks).

• Mid-range: $35–$60 (guided boat tour, dining).

• Luxury: $80–$120 (premium guided tours, dining).

• Timing: Visit markets in the morning (5:00–10:00 AM); explore temples and orchards in the afternoon (1:00–5:00 PM). Expect 50–150 visitors on weekdays, 80–200 on weekends.

• Booking: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead; book festival tours (January/February, October/November) 2–4 weeks ahead. Boats and homestays require 1–2 days’ notice.

• Sustainability: Use reusable items; support local farmers with fruit purchases ($2–$10/kg or 50,000–250,000 VND). Choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles or electric taxis.

• Navigation: Save “Vinh Long, Vinh Long Province” in offline maps; most destinations are within 1–20 km of the city center.

• Safety: Secure valuables; wear life jackets on boats. Avoid heavy rain for outdoor activities.

• Cultural Respect: Greet with “xin chào”; dress modestly at temples and respect local customs.

Discover Vinh Long’s must-visit destinations with our sustainable tour packages:

• Vinh Long Foodie & Nature Tour ($75–$110/person, 1 day): Cruise Tra On Floating Market, cycle An Binh Island, taste Ca Tai Tuong. Includes guide, eco-transport, meals.

• Vinh Long Island Adventure ($150–$200/person, 2 days): Explore An Binh orchards and Van Thanh Mieu Temple, enjoy Don Ca Tai Tu. Includes meals, guide, eco-transport.

• Mekong Delta Explorer ($350–$500/person, 4 days): Visit Tra On, Tra Vinh, and Mang Thit with boat, bike, and cultural tours. Includes meals, eco-transports.

• Prices include guides, eco-transport, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now for an unforgettable journey.

Vinh Long, Vinh Long Province, is a Mekong Delta treasure, home to unmissable destinations like Tra On Floating Market, An Binh Island orchards, and Van Thanh Mieu Temple. From vibrant river commerce to serene Confucian heritage, these sites capture the region’s authentic charm. Legend Travel Group’s Vinh Long Tours let you explore Vinh Long while supporting sustainable practices, ensuring a sustainable Vinh Long Travel experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-tour today to immerse in the Mekong Delta’s natural and cultural wonders!
Ready to visit Vinh Long’s top destinations? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Mekong Delta adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.