If you’re looking for an adventure-packed destination with a rich blend of cultures, then you’ve come to the right place. Soc Trang, a coastal province in the heart of the Mekong Delta, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. From its vibrant markets to its diverse ethnic communities, this charming province offers a unique and unforgettable experience for every traveler. What are you waiting for? Let’s embark on this exciting journey together with our Soc Trang travel guide right away!
Where is Soc Trang?
Soc Trang is a coastal province located in the downstream area of the Mekong Delta. It is about 231 km away from Ho Chi Minh City, 62 km from Can Tho, and 1908 km from Hanoi. The province borders the East and Southeast with the East Sea. To the northeast, Soc Trang shares its border with Tra Vinh Province and Vinh Long Province. To the southwest, it is adjacent to Bac Lieu Province. To the north and northwest, it borders Hau Giang Province.
Soc Trang is such a cool place with a mix of different ethnic groups living together! You’ve got the Kinh, Hoa, Khmer, and even the Cham people, all contributing to its unique cultural vibe. So, when you plan your trip to Soc Trang, get ready for a one-of-a-kind experience filled with exciting discoveries! It’s like stepping into a world of diverse traditions and customs, and you’ll have a blast exploring everything it has to offer.
When is the best time to visit Soc Trang?
Many travelers wonder when the best time is to visit Soc Trang. Well, worry not, because anytime you can make it here is an ideal time to discover the beauty of this place.
Each season in Soc Trang has its own unique charm and allure. The region experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. So, all you need to do is check the weather forecast and plan your trip accordingly.
Soc Trang typically enjoys a moderate temperature of around 26 degrees Celsius. It rarely has storms or floods. Hence, even if you visit during the rainy season, there’s no need to worry too much.
However, if possible, consider visiting during the festive seasons. This is when you’ll encounter fascinating things to explore and learn about. Major festivals in Soc Trang usually take place around mid-October in the lunar calendar (such as the Ooc-Om-Bok festival and boat racing), making it an ideal time for your trip.
Apart from the significant festivals in October, you can choose other periods, like during the Lunar New Year or in March, when the Nghinh Ong festival is held. Additionally, to experience Chool Chnam Thmay (Khmer New Year), plan your visit around April in the Gregorian calendar, and for the Water Festival, come around May in the lunar calendar.
How to go to Soc Trang?
Traveling by plane
If you’re planning to travel to Soc Trang from the North or the Central region, flying is a great option! You can choose between two airports: Tan Son Nhat Airport and Can Tho Airport. Can Tho Airport is closer, and you only need 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to Soc Trang, but if you prefer more flight options, you can fly to Ho Chi Minh City first and then make your way to Soc Trang.
Once you land, you can easily take high-quality sleeper buses to get to Soc Trang. It’s a convenient and comfortable way to travel. Just pick the option that suits your plans best and get ready for an exciting adventure in Soc Trang
Traveling by motorcycle or car from Saigon
If you’re traveling from Saigon to Soc Trang, it’s about a 200km journey that takes around 5 hours by car. You can take the National Highway 1A route to Can Tho and then head to Soc Trang, which is more convenient as there are no ferry crossings.
Another option, if you have more time, is to take the route through Ben Tre and Tra Vinh, then follow National Highway 60 to Soc Trang. Although this route is shorter, it’ll take longer since you’ll need to take 2 ferries at Dai Ngai and Cu Lao Dung. It might take around 2-3 hours for both ferry crossings, even on weekdays.
Now, if you’re using a motorcycle, the route through the Dai Ngai ferry is a better choice. It’s shorter, and motorbikes can pass through the ferry much faster since they can accommodate more motorbikes per trip compared to cars. You’ll save a lot of time using this route.
Traveling by coach
if you don’t have your own vehicle or prefer not to drive. Just hop on one of the high-quality bus services to Soc Trang. There are plenty of buses available, departing regularly from Miền Tây Bus Station. It’s a convenient and hassle-free way to get to your destination!
How to move around Soc Trang?
Motorcycle
When you’re exploring Soc Trang, renting a motorbike is the way to go! It’s like having the freedom to roam wherever you please, discover hidden gems, and truly experience the local vibes. Plus, it won’t break the bank, adding that extra thrill to your journey!
Just a little reminder, don’t forget to bring your valid license and gear up with safety equipment. Safety first, right? And of course, follow the local traffic rules for a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Oh, and here’s the best part! Finding a motorcycle rental spot in Soc Trang is super easy! So, let me share some cool suggestions for your trip.
| Unit Name | Phone | Address | Manual Bike Rental Price | Scooter Rental Price |
| Viet Nghia Hotel | 0299 3889 889 | 4 Dao Duy Tu, Ward 1, Soc Trang City | 80,000đ – 100,000đ/ngày | 130,000đ – 140,000đ/ngày |
| Anh Hau | 0939 149 527 | Near Minh Phuong Hotel, Soc Trang City | 80,000đ – 120,000đ/ngày | 120,000đ – 160,000đ/ngày |
| Tin Hoa Hotel | 0299 3828 779 | 50c Phu Loi, Ward 2, Soc Trang, Vietnam | 100,000đ/ngày | 180,000đ/ngày |
| Motorcycle Rental Delivery | 096 929 20 68 | Suong Nguyet Anh, Khom 4, Soc Trang | 90,000đ – 120,000đ/ngày | 140,000đ – 150,000đ/ngày |
Bus
If you want to explore Soc Trang on a budget without sacrificing convenience, hopping on a bus is the way to go! Trust me, the bus network here is awesome and will take you to all the fantastic spots on your bucket list without any worries.
Now, here’s a pro tip to make your bus adventure even smoother: keep Google Maps handy on your phone. Since not all bus drivers may speak English fluently, having this trusty app as your sidekick will be a game-changer.
Taxi
If you’re traveling with your family squad, taking a taxi is a smart move to share the costs! It’s a practical and convenient way to get around together and enjoy the journey. Plus, it gives you more flexibility to explore Soc Trang at your own pace.
| Taxi Service | Phone Number |
| Vinasun Taxi | 0778 872 727 |
| Taxi Mai Linh | 0299 3 686868 – 0299 3 621621 |
| Mekong Taxi | 0299 3 838383 |
| Thanh Cong Taxi | 024 32 575757 |
| Group Taxi | 024 38 515151 |
What to do for the first time in Soc Trang?
Cu Lao Dung
Cu Lao Dung is an awesome island at the mouth of the Hau River! You’ve got to check it out if you love nature and diverse ecosystems.
Imagine being surrounded by water on all sides, with a flat and beautiful landscape, and a bunch of rivers and canals crisscrossing through the area. It’s like stepping into a nature lover’s dream!
And the best part? Cu Lao Dung is home to a bunch of fruit orchards bursting with delicious fruits. You can indulge in all the tasty treats while enjoying the stunning scenery.
But wait, there’s more! In An Thanh Nam commune, you’ll find this massive flooded forest covering a whopping 1,500 hectares. It’s like a wildlife wonderland! So many different plant and animal species to discover and explore.
Nga Nam floating market
Nga Nam floating market has a fascinating history and a unique name – “Nga Nam,” which means the intersection of five rivers. How cool is that? Each river leads to different areas, making this market a buzzing trading hub in Soc Trang province.
When you visit, you’ll be amazed by the lively and bustling trading activities happening all around you. It’s like stepping into a vibrant world of commerce and culture! The five intersecting points of this market are Ca Mau, Long My, Vinh Quoi, Phung Hiep, and Thanh Tri.
Bats Temple
Bats Temple is a one-of-a-kind temple blending Vietnamese and Cambodian architectural styles. The name is super cool too – “Bats Temple”! It’s because the temple is surrounded by a forest filled with star and oil trees, home to thousands of bats. Picture this: every evening, these bats fly back to the temple courtyard, turning the sky into a breathtaking sight!
Tan Long Stork Garden
Tan Long Stork Garden is like an animal paradise, thanks to its fantastic natural conditions supporting a wide variety of flora and fauna, especially different kinds of birds like storks. You’ll be amazed by the beautiful creatures you’ll spot here!
And here’s an added bonus – besides enjoying the stunning wildlife, when coming here, you can treat yourself to some mouthwatering local delicacies from Soc Trang and the Mekong Delta. Yum!
Som Rong Pagoda
Som Rong Pagoda, also known as Botum Vong Sa Som Rong, is located at 367 Ton Duc Thang Street, Ward 5, Soc Trang City. This pagoda has a rich history dating back to around 1785, when it was built with simple bamboo, wood, and thatched roofs – a true testament to its humble beginnings. The coolest part? The area around the pagoda is teeming with beautiful Som Rong trees, and that’s where the name comes from – the blooming Botum flowers from these trees!
Tra Tim Pagoda
Tra Tim Pagoda, one of the oldest and most ancient Khmer pagodas in Soc Trang. It’s believed to have been built around the 15th to 16th century – how amazing is that? Now, within Soc Trang City, there are three pagodas with the name Tra Tim. We have Tra Tim old, Tra Tim new, and Tra Tim middle. But the one with the most fascinating history is the Tra Tim old, also known as the Chroi Tum Chas Pagoda. It’s got quite the story to tell!
Khmer Cultural Exhibition Hall
The Khmer Cultural Exhibition Hall is part of the Soc Trang Provincial Museum. It’s a fascinating spot, covering an area of 2,344 square meters. Inside, you’ll find a fantastic collection of artifacts that vividly showcase the culture, spirituality, lifestyle, and everyday life of the Khmer ethnic group in Soc Trang province. It’s like a window into the rich traditions and heritage of the Khmer people in the Mekong Delta region – truly an eye-opening experience!
Con My Phuoc
Con My Phuoc is located near the end of the Hau River’s downstream, between Soc Trang and Tra Vinh provinces. Picture this – a 5-kilometer stretch of land with over 1020 hectares of natural beauty, including more than 300 hectares of lush fruit trees. It’s simply paradise! The locals have taken full advantage of this paradise and started offering various tourism services, like cozy homestays and community-based tourism. You’ll get to experience authentic local life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature – what a treat!
And there you have it, my friend! We’ve covered eight amazing tourist attractions in Soc Trang that are sure to leave you in awe. But guess what? This is just the tip of the iceberg! If you want to discover even more hidden gems and exciting destinations in Soc Trang, we’ve a whole blog dedicated to Soc Trang’s breathtaking sights
What to eat in Soc Trang?
Pia cake
Have you heard about Vung Thom’s famous cake village in Soc Trang? It’s the ultimate go-to spot for the most delicious and top-notch treats in the province! They specialize in making a delightful cake called “pia cake.”
These little goodies are round and flat, with multiple thin layers wrapping a scrumptious filling of mung bean (or taro, various jams), salted duck egg yolk, and more! The thin, silky crust is so perfectly delicate and evenly peeled that some folks even call it “bánh lột da” – the “peeling cake.”
The pia cake is soft, chewy, and boasts a sweet, refreshing taste that blends the aroma of durian with mung beans, lard, or cooking oil. It’s a flavor explosion, tantalizing your senses with each bite! When these lovely pastries come fresh out of the oven, they sport a golden hue, and the scent of durian or other delicious fillings is simply irresistible.
Seal cake
The main ingredients for making the special seal cake in Co Co include roasted rice flour, mung beans, and rock sugar. They are skillfully pressed into beautifully crafted wooden molds, creating such eye-catching and intricate designs. It’s like edible art!
Now, let’s talk about the mouthwatering fillings of these seal cakes that give them their distinctive flavor. Get ready for a treat because they come in two delectable varieties – durian and mung bean fillings! Can you imagine the rich taste of durian wrapped in a delicate seal cake? And the velvety smoothness of mung bean filling? Trust me; it’s a divine combination!
Duck with bamboo shoots and peppercorn noodle soup (Bún Vịt Nấu Tiêu)
You’ve got to try the delicious Bún Vịt Nấu Tiêu when you’re in Soc Trang! It’s a mouthwatering dish with a unique blend of flavors, thanks to its Chinese-inspired recipe.
So, the key spice that gives this dish its kick is the peppercorn. It adds that spicy touch we all love! The flavorful broth is made by simmering fresh coconut water with duck bones, creating a delightfully sweet taste.
Now, here comes the best part – the duck meat! It’s cleaned and cut into perfect bite-sized pieces. Then, it’s marinated with peppercorns (half pounded, half whole), along with other delicious ingredients like sugar, MSG, garlic, and cashews.
When it’s finally done, the flavors will explode in your mouth. The savory taste of the duck, combined with the spicy peppercorns and the sweetness of the broth, creates a harmonious symphony of flavors that you won’t be able to resist.
Bone noodle soup
Bone noodle soup is a delightful dish with a rich and flavorful broth that will leave you craving more.
The soup can be made from chicken bones or pork bones, but the most common and popular choice is pork bones. The broth is simmered to perfection, creating a deliciously savory and sweet taste.
The combination of the rich and velvety broth, the tender yet chewy noodles, along with the mild spiciness of the pepper and a touch of heat from the chili, creates an unforgettable taste that will linger on your taste buds.
Alright, my foodie friend, we’ve taken a mouthwatering journey through the delicious local foods of Soc Trang! But hold on tight because there’s still so much more to savor! If you want to dive deeper into this culinary paradise, check out our blog post for more delicious dishes and hidden gems.
Hotels in Soc Trang
With so many famous tourist spots in Soc Trang, you won’t have to worry about finding a place to stay. There are plenty of quality accommodation options to choose from. Let me tell you about some great hotels:
Minh Phuong Hotel
Address: 294 Phu Loi, Soc Trang
Located in an ideal spot, just 3.1 km from the city center, you’ll have easy access to exciting tourist attractions. The hotel offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, parking, and room service. They also suggest fun activities to keep you entertained throughout your vacation.
Phu Qui Hotel
Address: 21 Phan Chu Trinh, Soc Trang
This hotel is conveniently close to many places like the Maspero River (within 100m), Soc Trang Bus Station (500m), Chen Kieu Pagoda (about 1 km), and Bats Pagoda (2 km). The rooms are well-equipped with flat-screen TVs, private bathrooms, free Wi-Fi, 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, laundry, and car rental services.
Viet Nghia Hotel
Address: 4 Dao Duy Tu, Soc Trang
Expect excellent service at this hotel, which offers easy access to popular tourist spots in the city. The hotel boasts 24-hour room service, free Wi-Fi in all rooms and public areas, a 24-hour front desk, express check-in/out, and public Wi-Fi. The rooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfortable workspaces.
How long should you stay in Soc Trang?
If you want to experience the highlights and immerse yourself in the local culture, a 2 to 3-day trip can be sufficient. During this time, you can explore the famous floating markets, visit ancient pagodas, and indulge in the unique Khmer culture.
However, for a more in-depth experience and to discover the hidden gems of Soc Trang, consider extending your stay to 4 or 5 days. This allows you to venture further into the countryside, explore lesser-known attractions, and take part in local festivals or events.
ATM and Money Exchange in Soc Trang
In Soc Trang, you’ll find a decent number of ATMs scattered across the city, making it convenient for travelers to access cash. Most of these ATMs accept major credit and debit cards, so you can easily withdraw Vietnamese Dong (VND) for your transactions. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash with you, especially if you plan to explore rural areas where ATMs may be less accessible.
For money exchange, you’ll find banks and currency exchange offices in the city center. While exchanging cash at the airport may be convenient, it’s generally recommended to do so at authorized exchange offices or banks to get better rates.
Local Emergency Contact for Tourists in Soc Trang
- Provincial Police: 02993.934567 or 0693.751159.
- Emergency Rescue: Dial 112
- Police: 113
- Fire Department: 114
- Ambulance and Medical support: 115
Remember to save your hotel/homestays phone number in case of emergency
Other notes to ensure a wonderful trip beside of this Soc Trang travel guide
- Check the weather forecast and plan your activities accordingly.
- There are many exciting water-based activities that you may get wet when participating in, so it’s advisable to bring at least two sets of clothes to change into.
- With so many outdoor activities and exploration opportunities in Soc Trang, you’ll likely be burning a lot of energy. Be sure to pack high-calorie snacks to keep your energy levels up,
- Soc Trang is renowned for its ecotourism, with its stunning natural landscapes and diverse wildlife. To fully immerse yourself in this experience, pack lightweight and simple clothing that allows for ease of movement and breathability.
- As you’ll be engaging in boat tours and navigating waterways, wearing high heels can be impractical and uncomfortable. Prioritize waterproof shoes, flip-flops, or sandals with straps.
- When visiting a pagoda, dress modestly and respectfully. Avoid wearing revealing or inappropriate clothing
- To stay refreshed and hydrated, remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Shield yourself from the strong sun’s rays by applying sunscreen, wearing a hat, and using sunglasses.
- If you’re planning outdoor activities or staying near bodies of water, bringing insect repellent is essential.
- While exploring Soc Trang’s natural beauty, take the necessary precautions to keep yourself safe. Secure your belongings in a fanny pack or a secure bag, be aware of your surroundings, and follow any safety instructions or warnings provided by guides or locals.
- As a responsible traveler, help preserve nature by disposing of trash properly and respecting the local environment.
- To stay connected during your stay, consider getting a local SIM card
