Vietnamese fruits
With its tropical monsoon climate, Vietnam is a true paradise for fresh, flavorful fruits. From the lush highlands to sun-drenched coastlines, the country offers an incredible variety of Vietnamese fruits, each reflecting the rich cultural diversity of this S-shaped land.
Whether you’re a foodie or a curious traveler, exploring the world of Vietnamese fruit is a must for your journey. Let’s discover some of the most delicious and iconic fruits you absolutely have to try while visiting Vietnam.
Mangosteen – Mang cut
Known as the “queen of fruits,” Vietnamese mangosteen is a true tropical delight. Beneath its thick purple rind lies a treasure of soft, juicy white segments bursting with sweet and slightly tangy flavor.
The perfect balance of taste and texture makes mangosteen one of the most sought-after fruits in Vietnam, especially during its short seasonal window from May to August. Refreshing, fragrant, and packed with antioxidants, this exotic fruit is a must-try for any food lover exploring Vietnam.
Durian – Sau rieng
Known for its bold aroma and rich, custard-like texture, Vietnamese durian is one of the most iconic tropical fruits. Its distinct smell may be overwhelming to some at first, but for those who fall for it, durian becomes an irresistible obsession. The flavor is uniquely sweet and buttery, with hints of almond, caramel, and even cheese.
Not everyone dares to try it, but if you’re a foodie or an adventurous traveler, durian is definitely a must-try in Vietnam. Give it a chance – you might just discover your newest exotic addiction!
Jackfruit – Mit
Vietnamese jackfruit is a tropical treat that’s both easy to love and hard to forget. Its vibrant golden flesh is firm yet tender, bursting with natural sweetness and a distinct, pleasant aroma. One bite is all it takes to win you over.
Bon bon – Langsat
Bon bon is a uniquely Vietnamese tropical fruit with a mild sweetness, a touch of tartness, and a subtle, pleasant aroma. Once you peel away the thin outer skin, you’ll find soft, translucent segments that almost melt in your mouth. Its juicy, balanced flavor brings a refreshing and light sensation – perfect for a sunny day.
Dragon Fruit – Thanh long
Thanh long, or dragon fruit, is a standout among Vietnamese tropical fruits – striking in appearance and delicately sweet in taste. Its vivid pink skin gives way to a tender, juicy flesh speckled with tiny edible seeds, offering a soft crunch in every bite. The flavor is clean and subtly floral, with just the right touch of sweetness to make it endlessly enjoyable
Lychee – Vai
Juicy, fragrant, and irresistibly sweet, Vietnamese lychee is a tropical gem that captivates from the very first bite. Hidden beneath its thin, spiky red skin is a pearl-like flesh – soft, succulent, and bursting with floral sweetness. It is mostly harvested in early summer, especially in Bac Giang and Hai Duong provinces.
Longan – Nhan
Sweet, floral, and refreshingly juicy, Vietnamese longan is a beloved summer fruit that delights with every bite. Beneath its thin, brown shell lies a translucent white flesh with a honey-like sweetness and subtle aroma. Often enjoyed fresh or in desserts and herbal drinks, longan is not just a fruit – it’s a taste of Vietnam’s tropical charm in its purest form.
Rambutan – Chom chom
With its wild, spiky red shell and juicy, translucent flesh, Vietnamese rambutan is a true tropical treasure. Sweet, slightly floral, and refreshingly succulent, this exotic fruit delights the senses from the very first bite. Peel away its hairy skin to discover a lychee-like interior that’s both crisp and tender. Rambutan season in Vietnam brings an explosion of color and flavor you won’t want to miss.
Star apple – Vu sua
Velvety, creamy, and irresistibly sweet, Vietnamese star apple – known locally as “vú sữa,” or “milk from the breast” – is a tropical fruit like no other. When sliced open, it reveals a star-shaped pattern and soft, milky-white flesh with a rich, fragrant flavor. Gently squeezed and enjoyed by tearing the fruit in half, it offers a unique eating experience that’s as satisfying as its taste. This seasonal delight is especially popular in southern Vietnam from late autumn through winter.
Watermelon – Dua hau
Juicy, vibrant, and perfectly refreshing, Vietnamese watermelon is a staple tropical fruit that shines during the hot summer months. With its deep red flesh and naturally sweet flavor, it’s the ultimate thirst-quencher found everywhere from roadside stalls to local markets. In Vietnamese culture, watermelon also holds symbolic value – especially during Tết (Lunar New Year) – as a sign of luck, prosperity, and joy.
Pomelo – Buoi
Vietnamese pomelo is a fragrant, citrusy fruit known for its large size, thick green rind, and juicy, sweet-tart segments. Unlike grapefruit, pomelo has a milder bitterness and a pleasant floral aroma that makes it incredibly refreshing. In Vietnam, it’s not just a favorite snack but also a traditional offering during Tết, symbolizing prosperity and happiness. Peeling one open reveals a bright, zesty reward that’s as satisfying to eat as it is to share.
Oranges – Cam
Vietnamese oranges are prized for their bright citrus aroma, juicy flesh, and perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Grown in regions like Ha Giang, Vinh, and the Mekong Delta, these sun-kissed fruits are a refreshing treat whether eaten fresh or enjoyed as a vibrant glass of orange juice. Their natural zest and high vitamin C content make them a must-try for fruit lovers.
Plums – Man
Vietnamese plums are a seasonal favorite that captures the essence of summer in the northern highlands. Small, round, and deep red to purplish in color, these juicy fruits have a thin, crisp skin and a sweet-tart flesh that’s both refreshing and addictive. Often enjoyed fresh or dipped in chili salt for an extra kick, Vietnamese plums offer a perfect balance of flavors – tangy, slightly sweet, and full of character. A true treat you shouldn’t miss during plum season, especially in regions like Moc Chau.
Peaches – Dao
Vietnamese peaches are a seasonal delight known for their velvety skin, sweet fragrance, and juicy, slightly tart flesh. Grown mainly in the cooler highland regions like Moc Chau, these peaches have a firm bite and a naturally refreshing flavor that makes them a summer favorite. Enjoy them fresh or as part of traditional desserts during peach season.
Coconut – Dua
Vietnamese coconut is the true essence of tropical refreshment. From its naturally sweet, hydrating water to its creamy white flesh, every part of the coconut is a treat. Whether you’re sipping fresh coconut juice on a sun-drenched beach or enjoying coconut-infused desserts, this fruit offers a taste of Vietnamese coastal life at its best. Found abundantly in the Mekong Delta and central coast, Vietnamese coconuts are beloved for their purity, flavor, and versatility.
Mango – Xoai
Vietnamese mango is a sun-kissed tropical favorite bursting with flavor. Juicy, smooth, and rich in sweetness, it comes in many varieties – ranging from crisp and tangy green mangoes to luscious, honey-like ripe ones. Whether dipped in chili salt, blended into smoothies, or eaten fresh, Vietnamese mangoes are a delightful experience for every palate and a must-try fruit on your journey through Vietnam.
Bananas – Chuoi
Simple yet iconic, Vietnamese bananas are a daily staple and a delicious tropical treat. Smaller and sweeter than many Western varieties, they offer a creamy texture with a rich, honeyed flavor. Whether eaten fresh, grilled, dried, or used in traditional desserts, bananas in Vietnam are versatile and always satisfying.
Avocados – Bo
Creamy and indulgent, Vietnamese avocados are a tropical delight loved for their smooth texture and rich, nutty flavor. Unlike many varieties, Vietnamese avocados are often larger, with buttery flesh that’s perfect for smoothies, sweet desserts, or simply eaten with a touch of sugar or condensed milk. It’s a uniquely local way to enjoy this nutritious superfruit.
Sapodilla – Hong xiem
Vietnamese sapodilla, known locally as “hồng xiêm,” is a sweet, fragrant fruit with a brown, rough skin and soft, caramel-colored flesh. Its rich, honey-like flavor with subtle malty notes makes it a comforting treat for those with a sweet tooth. Often enjoyed fresh or in smoothies, this underrated tropical gem is a must-try for fruit lovers seeking something truly unique.
Guava – Oi
Crisp, fragrant, and refreshingly tart-sweet, Vietnamese guava is a beloved everyday fruit throughout the country. Whether enjoyed fresh with chili salt or juiced for a cooling drink, its firm flesh and subtle floral notes make it a perfect snack. Rich in vitamin C and fiber, this tropical delight is as healthy as it is delicious.
Vietnamese fruits offer unforgettable experiences for both local and international travelers. From street vendors to modern supermarkets, these flavorful delights are easy to find across the country. Thanks to Vietnam’s long-standing agricultural heritage, most fruits are surprisingly affordable, making it even easier to indulge. Don’t miss the chance to savor the vibrant taste of nature during your journey through this beautiful land.
If you’re planning a trip to explore the beautiful landscapes and vibrant culture of Vietnam, don’t hesitate to reach out to Style Travel for quick and convenient tour arrangements. As a trusted travel agency with years of experience, Style Travel is committed to delivering unforgettable journeys tailored just for you. Let us help make your Vietnam adventure truly remarkable.