What to do in Long Xuyen City, a Mekong Delta hub of history and cuisine

The city is a popular destination for tourists, home to several notable attractions such as the Memorial Site of President Ton Duc Thang, Long Xuyen floating market, My Phuoc Temple, Bac De Temple, and Long Xuyen Cathedral.

From downtown Long Xuyen, visitors can take the Tra On or O Moi ferry from Long Xuyen Market to reach the Memorial Site of President Ton Duc Thang in My Hoa Hung Commune.

It should be combined with an early-morning visit to Long Xuyen floating market that offers a glimpse into the unique riverine culture of the Mekong Delta.

The floating market typically starts in the early morning, with fruit and food sold directly from boats.

Visitors can enjoy a riverside breakfast while watching the sunrise over the Hau River.

Next, a stroll through the city center takes visitors past historic temples, many of which are centuries old and feature ancient architecture.

These locations not only draw tourists but also serve as popular photo spots for people during holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year) break, often dressed in traditional ao dai (Vietnamese traditional costume).

A trip to Long Xuyen would not be complete without trying local dishes such as com tam (broken rice), banh mi, banh tam bi (thick rice noodles served with coconut sauce and shredded pork), and banh canh tep (shrimp noodle soup).

Numerous eateries along Le Minh Nguon Street also offer a wide variety of choices for foodies to Long Xuyen City.

Coffee culture is also a vibrant part of life in Long Xuyen, with a range of cafés from budget-friendly roadside shops to upscale venues.

Mornings by the riverside with a simple cup of coffee or visits to well-known coffee chains are both common options among locals.

One standout is Hai Ngau, a 50-year-old cloth-filter coffee shop located at the foot of Ong Manh Canal Bridge.

With prices ranging from VND5,000 to VND15,000 (US$0.19 to 0.58), the venue draws many young patrons starting their day.

Recently, American coffee giant Starbucks opened a store in downtown Long Xuyen, attracting crowds eager to experience the global brand.