Vung Tau Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do in Vung Tau, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around in this southern Vietnamese city. Read on for a comprehensive travel guide to Vung Tau.


Introduction to Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a city in Southern Vietnam that boasts long stretches of sandy beaches, colonial-era buildings, and a rich cultural heritage. The city is a popular weekend getaway for Ho Chi Minh City residents and is still relatively undiscovered by international travelers. Vung Tau is known for its seafood, temples, and friendly locals.

List of Places to Visit in Vung Tau

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • White Palace:This palace was built during the French colonial period and was once home to the governor of Indochina.
  • Christ of Vung Tau: This statue of Jesus is one of the tallest statues in Southeast Asia.
  • Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda: This pagoda is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 17th century. It is known for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning views of the city.
  • Vung Tau Lighthouse: This lighthouse was built in 1911 by the French colonial government and offers panoramic views of the city.

Natural Attractions of Vung Tau: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Back Beach: This beach is known for its clear waters and laid-back vibe. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
  • Front Beach: This beach is located in the city center and is a great place for a stroll or a picnic.
  • Pineapple Beach: This secluded beach is a favorite among locals and is known for its picturesque views of the surrounding cliffs.
  • Binh Chau Hot Springs: These natural hot springs are located about an hour outside of Vung Tau and offer a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Vung Tau

  • The Ho May Cultural and Ecotourism Park: This park is located on a mountain outside of Vung Tau and offers a variety of hiking and biking trails.
  • The Vung Tau Cable Car: This cable car takes visitors to the top of Nui Lon mountain, where they can enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
  • The Sao Mai Hill: This hill is located in the heart of the city and is a popular spot for a morning jog or a leisurely walk.

Best Things to Do in Vung Tau: Activities and Tours

  • Boat Tours: These tours take visitors around the coast of Vung Tau, giving them a chance to see the city from a different perspective.
  • Kite Surfing: Vung Tau’s steady sea breeze makes it a great place to try your hand at kite surfing.
  • Fresh Seafood: Vung Tau is famous for its seafood, and there are numerous restaurants in the city that serve it fresh and delicious.
  • Motorbike Rentals: Renting a motorbike is a popular way to explore the city and the surrounding area at your own pace.

Week-Long Itinerary for Vung Tau

Day Activities
1 Visit the Christ of Vung Tau statue and the White Palace.
2 Spend the day at Back Beach.
3 Take a boat tour around the coast of Vung Tau.
4 Explore the city’s temples, including Niet Ban Tinh Xa Pagoda.
5 Rent a motorbike and venture out to the Binh Chau Hot Springs.
6 Take a cable car to the top of Nui Lon mountain and hike down.
7 Relax on Front Beach and enjoy the city’s seafood.

Food and Drink Scene of Vung Tau

Must-Try Dishes

  • Banh Khot: These small, savory pancakes are made with rice flour and coconut milk and are topped with shrimp, scallions, and chili sauce.
  • Bun Rieu: This noodle soup is made with a flavorful tomato-based broth and is filled with crab meat, tofu, and various herbs and spices.
  • Banh Beo: These small steamed rice cakes are topped with minced shrimp, fried shallots, and scallions.

Local Beverages

  • Ca Phe Sua Da: This sweetened iced coffee is a popular drink in Vietnam and is made with condensed milk.
  • Tra Da: This iced tea is often served with a slice of lemon and is a refreshing way to cool down on a hot day.
  • Bia Hoi: This light, refreshing beer is a staple in Vietnam and is often served at street-side stalls.

Where to Stay in Vung Tau: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Grand Ho Tram Strip: This luxury resort is located on a beautiful stretch of beach and boasts a casino, several restaurants, and a golf course.
  • Malibu Resort: This mid-range hotel is located in the heart of the city and offers comfortable rooms and a small pool.
  • Green Hotel Vung Tau: This budget-friendly hotel is located near Front Beach and offers simple yet comfortable rooms.

What to Buy in Vung Tau: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Seafood: Vung Tau is famous for its seafood, and there are several markets in the city where you can buy fresh fish, prawns, and crabs.
  • Handicrafts: Vung Tau is known for its handicrafts, including lacquerware, wood carvings, and bamboo products.
  • Conical Hats: These hats are a symbol of Vietnam and make for a great souvenir.

Local Culture and Customs of Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a predominantly Buddhist city, and visitors are asked to dress modestly when visiting temples and other important cultural sites. It is also important to remove your shoes before entering a temple or private home. Tipping is not expected in Vietnam, but it is always appreciated.

Best Time to Visit Vung Tau

The best time to visit Vung Tau is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. The summer months (May to September) can be hot and humid, and there is a higher chance of rainfall.

Do’s and Don’ts of Vung Tau

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting temples and other cultural sites.
  • Try the fresh seafood.
  • Remove your shoes before entering a temple or private home.

Don’t:

  • Forget to pack sunscreen and insect repellent.
  • Expect everyone to speak English.
  • Be disrespectful of local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Vung Tau

Vung Tau is a relatively safe city, but visitors should still exercise caution when out at night and avoid carrying valuables with them. Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, so it is important to look both ways when crossing the street.

Health in Vung Tau

Visitors should be up to date on their routine vaccinations and should consider getting vaccinated against hepatitis A and B. Mosquitoes are common in Vietnam, so it is important to bring insect repellent and wear protective clothing.

Getting to Vung Tau: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Vung Tau

The nearest international airport is Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, which is approximately 2 hours by car from Vung Tau.

Bus Stations Near Vung Tau

There are several bus stations in Ho Chi Minh City that offer service to Vung Tau, including the Mien Dong Bus Station and the Phuong Trang Bus Station.

Other Options

Taxis and private cars are also available for hire in Ho Chi Minh City and can be arranged in advance through most hotels or travel agencies.

How to Get Around in Vung Tau

The best way to get around Vung Tau is by motorbike or bicycle. Rental shops can be found throughout the city, and prices are generally very affordable. Taxis and Grab (a ride-sharing service similar to Uber) are also available.

Where to Go Next from Vung Tau: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Ho Chi Minh City: The bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City is just a 2-hour drive from Vung Tau and is home to a variety of cultural and historical attractions.
  • The Mekong Delta: This fertile region is known for its floating markets, river cruises, and lush scenery.
  • Dalat: This charming town is located in the Central Highlands of Vietnam and is known for its French colonial architecture, cool climate, and stunning waterfalls.

Conclusion

Vung Tau is a beautiful and fascinating city that is well worth a visit. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s cultural attractions, lounging on the beach, or indulging in delicious seafood, there is something for everyone in Vung Tau.

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