Can Tho

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta, famous for its floating markets, fertile orchards, and picturesque canals. Known as Vietnam’s “Rice Granary,” the city is deeply connected to river life, agriculture, and trade. With its well-connected airport, road, and river networks, Can Tho serves as an ideal gateway to explore the Mekong Delta.

Things to see and do

Must-See Attractions in Can Tho

Floating Markets – A Unique River Life Experience

The floating markets of Can Tho come alive at dawn (around 5 AM), creating a vibrant scene where barges loaded with fresh fruits, vegetables, and local goods trade directly on the water. Vendors display their products on long poles, making it easy for buyers to see what's on offer.

Cai Rang Floating Market – The largest and liveliest market, perfect for seeing large trading boats in action.
Phong Dien Floating Market – A more local and authentic market with smaller boats, ideal for a cultural experience.
Phung Hiep Floating Market – A retail market where smaller boats sell directly to individuals.

Tip: Arrive early to witness the best atmosphere and enjoy a bowl of hot noodle soup from a boat vendor!

Cruise Along the Mekong & Hidden Arroyos

Take a traditional sampan boat to explore stilt villages, tropical fruit orchards, and small hidden canals (arroyos).

Multi-day cruises from Can Tho offer a deep dive into the Mekong Delta’s peaceful countryside.

Cycling Through the Countryside

Pedal along lush green villages and waterways to see local farms, rice fields, and fruit orchards in Phong Dien, My Khanh, and Binh Thuy.

Taste fresh exotic fruits straight from the orchards, including durian, rambutan, and mangosteen.

Visit Bang Lang Stork Garden

Located 60 km from Can Tho, this peaceful bird sanctuary is home to thousands of storks, offering a tranquil escape into nature.

Binh Thuy Ancient House

A beautiful colonial-era house (built in 1870) famous for its elegant design and ornate interiors. Featured in the film "The Lover" by Jean-Jacques Annaud.

Cultural & Religious Landmarks

Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda – A stunning Khmer temple, a cultural and religious center offering free education for Khmer children.

Ong Chinese Temple – A historic late 19th-century temple built by the Cantonese community, filled with giant incense coils and vibrant decorations.

Good to Know

When to visit?

Best Time: December to April (Dry Season) – Pleasant weather for outdoor activities.
Rainy Season: May to November – Lush landscapes, but occasional heavy rains.
Best Time for Tropical Fruits: June to August – Markets overflow with seasonal delights like mango, jackfruit, and durian.

Access

Getting to Can Tho

- By Plane: Direct flights from Hanoi, Danang, and Phu Quoc via Vietnam Airlines & VietJet Air.

- By Car: ~ 4-5 hours (170 km) from Ho Chi Minh City.

Private cars, local buses (Vu Linh, Phuong Trang) from Mien Tay Bus Station

Where to eat and taste

Must-Try Can Tho Culinary Specialties

- Bánh xèo – Crispy Vietnamese pancake with shrimp and bean sprouts.

- Grilled local snails with pepper – A unique seafood delicacy.

- Lẩu mắm (Fish hotpot) – A rich, flavorful Mekong-style hotpot.

- Cá lóc nướng trui (Grilled snakehead fish) – A classic Mekong Delta dish, often wrapped in rice paper with fresh herbs.

Continuing your journey

Ben Tre – Land of coconut trees, famous for coconut candy and boat tours.
Tra Vinh – A Khmer cultural hub with stunning Khmer temples (60 km south).
Vung Liem – A peaceful countryside destination, famous for coconut plantations (55 km).
Long Xuyen / Chau Doc – Gateway to the An Giang province and Sam Mountain.

Travel Ideas

All Vietnam’s Cities