Eat
Ben Tre Floating Restaurant
This rather grand-looking floating restaurant is set on a giant dragon boat and features three floors. The menu includes a dizzying array of Vietnamese…
Getty Images/Robert Harding World Imagery
The picturesque little province of Ben Tre was always one ferry beyond the tourist traffic of My Tho and consequently developed at a more languid pace, although new bridges connecting Ben Tre with My Tho and Tra Vinh funnelled more visitors into the area. The town’s sleepy waterfront, lined with ageing villas, is easy to explore on foot, as is the rustic settlement across the bridge to the south of the centre. This is also a good place to arrange boat trips in the area, particularly for those wanting to escape the tour-bus bustle. Plus, the riverside promenade and the narrow lanes on both sides of the river are ideal for two-wheeled exploration.
The Ben Tre area is famous for its keo dua (coconut candy). Many local women work in small factories making these sweets, spending their days boiling cauldrons of the sticky coconut goo before rolling it out and slicing sections into squares.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Ben Tre.
Eat
This rather grand-looking floating restaurant is set on a giant dragon boat and features three floors. The menu includes a dizzying array of Vietnamese…
Eat
Adding a welcome touch of innovation to Ben Tre's largely uninspiring dining scene, this friendly place attracts a healthy contingent of travellers and…
Eat
Centrally located, this place attracts a lively local crowd thanks to its popular grilled chicken, best washed down with draught beer.
Eat
Sizzling meat and seafood skewers and bowls of noodles await at the market food stalls.
Guidebooks
Uncover the heart of travel and be inspired to see new sights with one of Lonely Planet’s in-depth, award-winning guidebooks.