Visit Can Tho – Official Can Tho Travel Guide

Planning a holiday to Can Tho? Discover top reasons to go, best time to visit, tours and free itineraries, history and hidden gems with the official guide! Find out what to do, where to go, where to stay and what to eat in Can Tho from the local travel experts who know it best. If you’re not able to visit just yet, plan ahead to make the most of your wish-lists.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Visitor Guide To Can Tho | Chau Doc | Soc Trang | Ben Tre | Cai Be | Vinh Long | My Tho | Tra Vinh | Sa Dec | Bac Lieu | Ca Mau | Hau Giang

Welcome to Can Tho City

Can Tho at a glance

Can Tho city is located on the south bank of the Hau River, the largest tributary of the Mekong River. Can Tho city is contiguous with five provinces: An Giang on the north, Dong Thap on the northeast, Vinh Long on the east, Hau Giang on the south, and Kien Giang on the western border. The city‘s climate is tropical and monsoonal with two seasons: the rainy season lasts from May to November, and the dry season from December to April. The annual average temperature is 27 °C (80.6°F), humidity 83%, and rainfall 1,635 millimeters.

Can Tho city is in a region accumulated by alluvia from the Mekong River over centuries, and plain terrain features. The city stretches 65 kilometers along the river and has an interlacing system of rivers and ditches. The name Can Tho comes from “cầm thi giang” which means “river of poems”. In Can Tho, the residential areas are situated along banks of rivers and canals, and densely concentrated in hubs of waterways and roads, just like in neighboring provinces in the Mekong Delta. Many economic and cultural activities closely relate to rivers and canals, which are like “streets”.

Top Reasons to Go

Cai Rang Floating Market

Cai Rang floating market is one of the most famous and biggest floating markets in the Mekong Delta. It is also a living museum of the southern traditional culture that has been fostered by the Mekong Delta’s interlacing waterway systems.

Cai Rang floating market was recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage in June 2016. The UK’s Rough Guide selected Cai Rang Floating Market as one of the ten most impressive markets in the world, characterized by colorful boats selling tropical agricultural products.

Stunning canals and wild islets

U.S. visual media company Getty Images has listed the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho among 15 world’s most beautiful canal cities. The largest economic hub in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s most productive agriculture and aquaculture region, lies at an intersection of canal and river networks that measure a total of 1,157 km. The Hau River, one of the two tributaries of the Mekong River in Can Tho, Vietnam, flows along the city’s north.

Nature, Wildlife and Bird Sanctuary

About 40 kilometers from Can Tho city, the wetland conservation is one of Can Tho hidden gems for anyone who loves to see a real Mekong Delta beside Can Tho floating markets. Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve is known as the “green lung” of the Mekong Delta But also one of the most unique biodiversity conservation areas of Vietnam. Birdwatching or birding in Mekong Delta, Lung Ngoc Hoang forest is one of the most beautiful places for birding in the early morning and afternoon, in the dry and the wet season.

Mekong Cruises

Can Tho river is the meeting point of the river tributaries. This city has many cruises for tourists who are passionate about exploring nature and the majestic Mekong river. Mekong excursions can last for the day, overnight, or even cross-country between Vietnam and Cambodia and Laos. With the advantage of Can Tho international airport, more and more tourists choose Can Tho as the place to start the trip of a lifetime – the Mekong Delta expedition.

Getting here and around

As the center of the Mekong Delta region, Can Tho has invested in upgrading their transportation and infrastructure. It also means that traveling to the city won’t take much sweat, especially when you get here by public bus, car, ferry or airplane. We will break this down in detail, so check the information below to choose your best vehicle option.

Air travel: In 2011, Can Tho International Airport opened. It is served with flights to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Bangkok (Thailand), Ha Noi, Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Con Dao, Nha Trang, DaLat…The average price ranges from 750,000VND to 6.4 million VND (32 USD – 275 USD) per flight ticket. Tickets are available on the globally famous site skyscanner.com; vietnamairlines.com; vietjetair.com; bambooairways.com; airasia.com; Currently, there aren’t any direct flights from Saigon to Can Tho, so you have to transit at Phu Quoc or Da Nang Airport for a few hours before continuing onto Can Tho.

Bus travel: From Ho Chi Minh city to Can Tho. You can catch a bus from the Western bus station (address: 395 Kinh Duong Vuong, An Lac Ward, Binh Tan District, Ho Chi Minh City) with the time to travel to Can Tho is 3,5 hours, to buy tickets or contact system of specialized vehicles running Saigon – Can Tho route such as: Phuong Trang (futa bus lines), add in Saigon: 272 De Tham, District 1. Tel: (08) 38375570. Departure at the West bus station from 7am to 10pm. Add in Can Tho: Depart the at center bus station (in Vietnamese “Bến Xe Khách Trung Tâm Thành Phố Cần Thơ), every 15 minutes per trip. Once you’ve arrived at the Can Tho Bus Station, take a taxi to your Can Tho accommodation. Or, if taking the Futa bus line, take the complimentary transportation van which goes to certain areas in 10 km distance. For your return trip, you can pre-book your tickets or have your accommodation help reserve the tickets for you.

Boat travel: Not yet.

Speed Boat travel: From Cambodia to Can Tho. After finishing the speed boat from Phnom Penh, Cambodia. You will get into Chau Doc city, Vietnam. You should spend a night there. Local Futa buses take about 4 hours from Chau Doc to Can Tho.

Speed Boat travel: From Phu Quoc to Can Tho. You have two options; flying with Vietnam Airlines to Trà Nóc Airport or taking a longer journey by ferry (2,5 hours PQ-Rach Gia, 1,5 hours PQ-Ha Tien) and bus (105km (3 hours drive) from Rach Gia, and 200km (4,5 hours drive) from Ha Tien to Can Tho). Super Dong Ferry or Phu Quoc Express Boat are the best, tickets cost between 330,000 VND and 540,000 VND (VIP seat).

Express boat travel: From Con Dao to Can Tho. Mai Linh Express was officially put into operation to serve passengers traveling on the Can Tho – Con Dao route on April 21, 2021. The speed boat departs from Ninh Kieu wharf, Can Tho to Ben Dam port, Con Dao with a frequency of 2 trips/day. Top tips: Double check the weather conditions and its unexpected delays.

Train travel: Not yet.

Bicycle and motorcycle travel: Generally speaking, there is no unsuitable motorcycle/bike, no unsuitable time of year and no unsuitable level of experience but instead a matter of motivation and will. However, good planning is essential for a successful and safe journey. Can Tho is fine to do.

Best time to Visit Can Tho

Being in southern Vietnam, Can Tho has a tropical climate and three seasons – dry, rainy and flooding. Rainy season in Can Tho lasts from May to November; dry season from December to April. There are no typhoons in Can Tho, but annual flooding. It starts from mid-August to October. The total number of sunny hours is 2,561 hours per year (source: Vietnam Institute for Building Science and Technology). Average humidity per month is 86.6%. The least humid month is March (78.3% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (87.9%). Wind in Can Tho is usually calm. The annual average rainfall is 1,946 mm with 189 rainy days per year.

In Can Tho, It is best visited between December and February when it is cool and dry at night, while monsoon rains saturate the place between July and November. If you don’t like excessive heat, avoid March to June. Therefore, it doesn’t really matter when you visit, as the Mekong Delta looks fantastic in full sun and full rain. Travel companies may list tours for the rainy period, but plan your trip dates carefully or your trip may be a washout.

Can Tho Tourist Attractions

Cai Rang Floating Market

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: An hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for boat, coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/cai-rang-floating-market-can-tho/

Address: Cai Rang Bridge, Cai Rang District, Can Tho City. About 6 km from Can Tho city center.

Recognition(s): was recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage in June 2016. The UK’s Rough Guide selected Cai Rang Floating Market as one of the ten most impressive markets in the world, characterized by colorful boats selling tropical agricultural products.

Added values: It is considered as one of the gems worth discovering for those who are passionate about simplicity and uniqueness and originality of the cultural Mekong river life now and then.

Cai Rang floating market is one of the most famous and biggest floating markets in the Mekong Delta. It is also a living museum of the southern traditional culture that has been fostered by the Mekong Delta’s interlacing waterway systems. The market is on the Cai Rang river. It is five kilometers by road from the centre of Can Tho. It is a wholesale market, selling fruits, vegetables and other agricultural products from Can Tho city as well as from 13 neighboring provinces in the Mekong Delta region.

Book tour: Can Tho floating market & small canals

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

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Cai Rang floating market is much more geared towards locals than tourists; therefore, it doesn’t have souvenir stalls like the other mainland markets. Unlike the mainland markets, the shops and stalls at Cai Rang floating market are boats of different sizes. The market was born hundred years ago (many French sources recorded in 1899) from the local people’s habit of traveling and doing business by boat on the region‘s interlacing waterway systems. In the south-western region, boats and rafts are important means of transportation, like motorbikes and cars are in other regions. Cruising through the river in a boat, local vendors conduct all their business right on the water. All the goods are transported to the market by rafts (not much now), sampans and boats. The floating market is not only a place where rural products are sold but also unique features of life are found on these boats. The market constitutes a “canal civilization” with many traders living on the river and some link their lives with their boats. On the deck of the boats, visitors can see generations of one family, children or babies, and even some dogs, chickens and gardens, as the boats are the familys’ mobile homes… Read more info & pictures

Phong Dien Floating Market

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: Daily 5:00 am to 7:30 am

Food: Yes, tiny floating food boat serves fruits, food, hot noodle soup, coffee, soft drinks

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for boat

Blog: https://vemekong.com/phong-dien-floating-market-can-tho/

Address: Tay Do Bridge, Nhon Ai, Phong Dien District, Can Tho City. About 17km from Can Tho city center.

Added values: You can explore Can Tho’s countryside, cool villages, and small canals by Can Tho sampan.

As a local expert, we do know that the Phong Dien floating market will be no more after 7:30 am. Because this one is very small and very local, there are about more or less 45 boats and sampans at this market, you can watch our drone video 4k to know more. Let’s tell you, we inspect this market a lot and it is always busy and real touching is at the sunrise and the locals start to go home about 6:45a.m. Top tip:  Best enjoying time to be right at the spot is from 5:30am-6:30am. I hope you have an amazing sunrise on the Mekong Delta river.

The Phong Dien floating market absolutely stays on the river. The best way to discover this market is by boat or sampan. Anyway, there is a bridge nearby the market which gives you a bird’s eye view of this stunning market as well. So that you can get to Phong Dien by boat, scooter or car and locate where the market is. It is about 17km away from Can Tho center and takes about 2 hours by boat and 45 minutes by car or scooter. After the market the sampan will take you to many villages and small canals in Phong Dien. Top tip: The best experience is to see the floating market from the sampan… Read more info & pictures

Binh Thuy Ancient House

Ticket: 20,000VND

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: Daily 7 am to 12 pm & 2 pm to 6 pm

Food: a small coffee shop

Shop: a painting shop

Parking lot: Yes, for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/binh-thuy-ancient-house-can-tho/

Address: 144 Bui Huu Nghia Street, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City. About 6km from Can Tho city center.

Recognition(s): was recognised as a National architectural and artistic monument in 2009.

The Binh Thuy French-style house, the privately owned house, was built in 1870 by the Duong family and still managed by the eighth generation. The house was famously used in the 1992 movie “L’Amant” (“The Lover”) based on the novel of the same name by French author Marguerite Duras, directed by Jean Jacques Annaud, telling the story of a young Marguerite Duras and her lover Huynh Thuy Le, set during Indochina times. 

The Duong family’s house is a rare model of an old house remaining quite intact in Binh Thuy, Can Tho, local people used to call this place Binh Thuy ancient house, Binh Thuy orchid garden old house. The Duong family came to settle in the South around the end of the 18th century, until Mr. Duong Minh Hien was the 6th generation, the first house was built by Mr. Duong Van Vi in 1870 with precious wood and roof tiles to worship the ancestors. The house you are visiting today was built by Mr. Duong Chan Ky (also known as Mr Landlord 3) between 1904 and 1911… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory

Ticket: Free and flexible

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-rice-noodle-factory/

Address: Lo Vong Cung Street, An Binh Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City. About 6,5km from Can Tho City center.

Added values: The most amazing thing is the locals still make all fresh noodles in manual ways from mixing, making, drying, cutting noodles, packing…all done by hand. You can explore Can Tho’s countryside, cool villages, small canals, local roads and gardens by walking or cycling.

The best time to visit it is before 10 am because if you come after 10 am, you may miss the opportunity to see with your own eyes, experience with your own hands and get noodles. Because at this time, most of the fresh cakes have been left to dry in the sun for the next process. Top tip: Still open and run the factory in the wet season but less colors and less noodles than the sunny days. It is more fun and eye-opener to check in this place during the flood season.

The best way to see this place is by boat, you should combine it with the Cai Rang floating market & rice noodle factory in your biking tour.

The cheapest way to discover Can Tho rice noodle factory is by bicycle or scooter, because this hidden gem is in Can Tho village and along many small paths and canals which are so cool and worthy of your full exploration. Top tip: If you plan to extend your Can Tho biking tour to the homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

There are some interesting things about this place. The most amazing thing is the locals still make all fresh noodles in manual ways from mixing, making, drying, cutting noodles, packing…all done by hand. Most tourists are welcome to help make the noodles with the locals. The noodles here are so colorful and super yummy with their home cooked “noodle pizza”. Top tip: So much educational and fun to interact with the local’s hospitality…. Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Wildlife & Forest

Ticket: 50,000VND (visit a part) or 100.000VND

Spend-time: An hour (approx) or stay overnight

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes, local restaurant

Shop: Not really

Parking lot: Yes for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-bird-sanctuary/

Address: 927 Road, Hoa An, Phung Hiep, Hau Giang, Vietnam. About 40km to the South of Can Tho City.

Recognition(s): Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve is known as the “green lung” of the Mekong Delta But also one of the most unique biodiversity conservation areas of Vietnam.

Added values: Birdwatching or birding in Mekong Delta, Lung Ngoc Hoang forest is one of the most beautiful places for birding in the early morning and afternoon, in the dry and the wet season.

About 40 kilometers from Can Tho city, the wetland conservation is one of Can Tho hidden gems for anyone who loves to see a real Mekong Delta beside Can Tho floating market. Only best way to explore this place is to take the boat! Wonderful natural green canals and feeling like nowhere in Vietnam. Top tip: Trekking or staying overnight will bring you chances to explore nature & wildlife.

If you are a true nature lover, you would love to be in nature any time like us! Best time for Mekong is in the dry season from December to April, but the best time to visit this wetland is in the flooding and raining season when the fish, foods, birds come back & wake up nature and wildlife. When the flood comes, the water lettuce covers the whole area of the forest and wild canals, this makes the destination such unforgettable landscapes. For other times of the year, especially during the dry season, visitors will see nature’s beauty in different ways as true nature explorers… Since 2016, 2017 the forest has attracted tourists. However, it wasn’t until 2019 the local bridge and road official upgraded so much better. Top tip:  The first week of November is top-notch.

Is it safe to visit it during the wet season? The more you know about wildlife the more you respect nature and our rainforest in Mekong Delta. Totally fine! The forest opens all year round! There are even more elements to see during the wet time! As a real traveler, we believe that you will love nature at any time of the year… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Fruit Garden

Ticket: Free or 20,000VND (for some gardens)

Spend-time: One and a half hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes, local fruits

Shop: Fresh fruits

Parking lot: Yes and a short walking

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-fruit-garden/

Address: There are many fruit gardens in Cai Rang, Phong Dien floating market. About 10km to 20km from Can Tho city center.

Added values: Most of the amazing tropical orchards are organic and environmentally gardens. The visitors always enjoy the fresh seasonal fruits from the gardens. You can explore Can Tho’s countryside, cool villages, small canals, local roads and gardens by walking or cycling.

Fruit is seasonal. If you really look for a beautiful fruit garden, you should plan to see it during the wet season. When the rain comes, the flowers blossom and the yummy fruit grows. Top tip: It is prettier to see the garden in the morning.

Boat, bike, scooter, and car are some means of transportation to reach the Can Tho fruit garden. It just depends on your styles and how much time you have. Because the garden is in the countryside and the small road you go to, the authentic garden you will see. As a local, we prefer taking a small boat, sampan or bicycle to go. Top tip: Making a ride of your life around the Mekong canal and fruit garden by bike or scooter is a great and amazing trip… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Sampan Ride and Small Canals

Sampan is one of the authentic and traditional boats that the Mekong peoples used to have for the markets, floating markets, traveling around, loading goods and even for the wedding.

Can Tho sampan have both engine and hand rowing and the foldable roof to avoid the sun and rain. Sampan in Can Tho is pretty bigger than normal so that it can carry more things and is used for tours as well.

Sampan in Can Tho can accommodate about 4 adults with the small size, and 8 adults with the bigger one.

Renting a sampan by yourself is about 250.000vnd [~11$] for 2 or 3 people for about 12km. This price is about the tour from Ninh Kieu pier to Cai Rang floating market. It is about double the price for both Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets. It costs a bit extra if you ask for small canals and other fruit gardens along the way.

If you are not sure about the negotiation of sampan prices, you can ask the hotel for help… Read more info & pictures

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes, big vegetarian restaurant

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/truc-lam-phuong-nam-zen-monastery-can-tho/

Address: 923 Road, My Khanh, Phong Dien District, Can Tho City.

Added values: If you make an attempt to discover, you will find that temples are usually built where there is abundant positive energy which helps your soul and beliefs a lot better.

The monastery was built on an area of nearly 4 hectares, started construction on July 16, 2013 and completed after 10 months of construction. On May 17, 2014, the inauguration ceremony of Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery was solemnly organized by the Buddhist Board of Can Tho.

The entire building has a tiled roof structure, ironwood pillars, brick walls, floors and walkways. Besides the main hall, the campus is balanced with about 20 work items such as: ancestral house, spacious hall for teaching and studying for about 500 monks, Buddhists, 9-storey stupa, drum tower, bronze bell tower, monks’ quarters and guest houses, monasteries, libraries and medicine rooms, water houses, etc., were built around them, forming an architectural complex imbued with cultural and historical significance… Read more info & pictures

Ba Bo Flower Village

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dust

Food:

Shop:

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/ba-bo-flower-village-can-tho/

Address: An Khanh Ward, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Ba Bo flower village? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho fruit garden (10 minutes away), Binh Thuy ancient house (30 minutes away).

The best time to visit Can Tho is in the spring season. It is beautiful from the town to the village. Moreover, the village is worth visiting from October to January because of the green, yellow fields and colorful blossoming flower villages. What a wonderful moment to see the flowers as the local’s smile on Tet coming holidays. The worth visiting village in Can Tho is the Ba Bo Flower Village where nearly 250 households in the 20-hectare community cultivate dozens of species of flowers and ornamental plants. The best way to unlock the secret of the flower villages is to take Can Tho cycling tours or Can Tho motorbike tours. The tourists can leisurely contemplate and take photos to capture memories with different gardens. The best time for visitors to see it is before the Tet holiday…Read more info & pictures

Romantic Sampan – Can Tho Sunset Tour (from 3 pm to 6 pm)

Book tour: Afternoon in Can Tho & Sampan ride

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

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Take a romantic sampan ride in the afternoon & navigate quiet canals as you sit back with your loved one. See Can Tho bridge from the water as you sail through a tranquil islet. Visit the unique local brick kiln. Small bottles of fruit cider in an ice cooler box will be provided during the trip! Leave the crowds behind and enjoy an intimate peaceful sampan ride in canals. Watching the local children playing in the water as the sun is setting on Hau tributary is a true joy. Seeing the happiness on their faces while they are splashing around is something you’ll never forget. On sampan, savor fresh tropical fruits with glasses of fruit cider! What a romantic sampan ride!!! ….Read more info & pictures

Ninh Kieu Wharf

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dust

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/ninh-kieu-wharf-can-tho/

Address: Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City. The wharf runs from the Ninh Kieu walking bridge to Tan An fruit market area.

Added values: The sky bars, the floating restaurants and the walking bridge make this place the most attractive and interesting destination for visitors.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Ninh Kieu wharf? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Ong pagoda (5 minutes away), Can Tho prison (5 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (10 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (15 minutes away).

It is about 500 meters from the center. Ninh Kieu Park is large and spacious, planted with many beautiful ornamental trees, the highlight of green grass growing and weaving among white cement panels and the statue of Uncle Ho with 7.2m high bronze. It is the center park for mental and physical activities of local people. There are some side spots around like night markets, old markets, floating restaurants, plenty of restaurants and sky bars, hotels, local shops, convenience stores and even the travel agents. The view over the Can Tho bridge and Can Tho river with colorful fishing and trading boats moored at all angles on the shimmering golden water at sunset is extremely photogenic…. Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Walking Bridge

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx.)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-walking-bridge/

Address: Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho walking bridge? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (15 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (15 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (20 minutes away).

If you get to Ninh Kieu wharf by night, it is time to see Can Tho walking bridge with 2 gigantic lotus flowers made of thousands of neon lights that brighten up the whole area. This is a great spot for taking pictures from Can Tho rooftop bar or just simply enjoying the great river view of Can Tho at night…Read more info & pictures

Ong Pagoda

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx.)

Hours: Daily from 7 am to 9 pm

Food:

Shop:

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/ong-pagoda-can-tho/

Address: 32, Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City. Right across from the temple is the Ho Chi Minh statue which you can visit at any time of the day.

Recognition(s): As a place carrying historical and architectural values, the Ong pagoda was recognised as a cultural historical relic by the Ministry of Culture and Information (MOCI) on June 21st 1993.

Added values: Local devotees come to this small pagoda to pray in front of Than Tai, God of Fortune, and Quan Am, Goddess of Mercy.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Ong pagoda? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (5 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (10 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (15 minutes away).

Ong pagoda, 532 sq.m, was established by efforts of a segment of Hoa people in two chief towns Quang Chau and Trieu Khanh of Quang Dong, China in 1894 – 1896 for worshiping Quan Cong. In respect of architecture, it deeply carries out Chinese architecture since almost all elements consisting of stone pillars, underpinning, purling, etc., were brought from Wangdoung. It’s shaped as a “Quoc” character (old Han script), including closed ranges of apartments located quadrate one another and a space in the center called Thien Tinh (open well).

The pagoda’s most important apartment leaves in sanctum where main duty staying in worshiping Quan Cong in the main altar (in the midst), respecting Tho Dia (God of the soil) and Thien Hau Thanh Mau on the right, as well as Dong Vinh first doctorate candidate and Tai Bach Tinh Quan on right hand additionally. In front of sanctuary are six incense-tables including three grind-stone tables built in 1974 carrying bronze urns dated 1896 and three relief characters “Hiep thien cung” written in Han script; the rear row lays three wood-framed and glass-surfaced tables kept gold-plated relievo. The rest rows perform adoring Goddess of Mercy and receiving guests of the pagoda’s administrative section….Read more info & pictures

Bang Lang Stork Garden

It is in Thoi Thuan Commune, Thot Not district, 45km from Can Tho City in the direction of the national high No. 91 towards Long Xuyen city, An Giang Province. The best time to listen to “folk stork music” is in the early morning or late afternoon. Top tip: The Mekong Delta flooding season has more foods and more birds to watch.

In the old days, tourists could go to the garden by boat or walking from the national road 91. It takes you about 30 minutes by walking, about 15’ by boat. Nowadays, there is a good road for cars. So that you just follow the Google Maps to reach it. The visitors pay for the VND 20000 per ticket and can go upstairs the observatory to watch all the gardens and study daily routines of birds and beautiful nature. Top Tip: Watch out the outside slippery stairs.

This is a home to over 20 species of birds, 10 species of storks with the population standing at more than 10 thousand. It is one of the largest sanctuaries in the Mekong river Delta. In the past, the stork garden was a rice farm which is surrounded with mango trees, Bang Lang trees and the shade of coconut trees. In 1983, there were about 200 storks gathered around there and settled on his field. Because the owner is a nature-loving farmer, he did not annoy them to run away by any traps or poisons. On the contrary, he wanted to protect and help all of them such as: planting a lot of bamboo trees as a warm home for them. In 1994, numerous birds and species of storks from everywhere flock more and more….Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Tours and Free itineraries

Itinerary 1: Can Tho Sampan Ride & Floating Market (half day)

Itinerary 2: Can Tho Floating Market & Small Canals (half day)

Itinerary 3: Can Tho Floating Market & Wildlife (half day)

Itinerary 4: Can Tho Floating Market & Cycling (half day)

Itinerary 5: Can Tho Wildlife & Forest (half day)

Itinerary 6: Can Tho River Tour (full day)

Itinerary 7: Can Tho Scooter Tour & Floating Market (half day)

Itinerary 8: Afternoon in Can Tho & Sampan Ride (half day)

Itinerary 9: Can Tho Food Tour (by night)

Itinerary 10: Can Tho Tour From Ho Chi Minh 1 Day

If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. But there are much more than tourist sites like these in Can Tho. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life, wildlife and forest as well. Top tip: Stay in a homestay nearby, so you have more chances to visit it and surroundings. If you are looking for the package Can Tho day tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

Can Tho Homestay and Hotels

Resort: Azerai Can Tho. Azerai resort is the best-rated resort & its locations in Can Tho, Vietnam! Azerai ‘affordable luxury’ resort, is a unique oasis of calm on the culturally fascinating Hau River, a tributary of the Mekong. Its exclusive setting means is only accessed by boat. The Azerai Can Tho combines the familiarity of a global five-star brand with the eclectic touch of a boutique hotel. Add: Con Au Islet, Can Tho City, phone: +84292 3627888; website: Azerai Can Tho; price range: From 5,888,000 VND (~ 256 USD)

City center hotel: KP hotel is one of best favorite walking-distance hotels in Can Tho. It offers very affordable luxury combining modern elegance, refined garden design and great caring stay. Lion City restaurant, the only halal-certified restaurant in Can Tho city center, is on the ground floor of KP hotel serving both internal and walk-in guests. Add: 09 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia street, Can Tho City; phone: +842923731313 ; website: KP Can Tho hotel; price range: From 707,000 VND (~30 USD)

Can Tho Markets, Shopping and Souvenirs

Can Tho Old Market

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx.)

Hours: Daily from 7 am to 9 pm

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-old-market/

Address: 138, Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.

Added values: A historical and architectural place.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho old market? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (15 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (15 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (20 minutes away).

Due to its central location, it is a place for gathering, exchanging goods and attracting tourists. Absolutely, there are hundreds of shops with uncountable local souvenirs like traditional and trendy garments and local handicrafts, even a beautiful riverside restaurant. It is more crowded and beautiful at night…Read more info & pictures

Muoi Cuong Cacao Farm and Home-made chocolate

Ticket: 50,000VND

Spend-time: An hour (approx)

Hours: Daily 7 am to 12 pm

Food: Cacao drink, chocolate.

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/muoi-cuong-cacao-farm-can-tho/

Address: My Khanh, Phong Dien, Can Tho. About 12km from Can Tho city center.

Added values: Foreigners have learned about the stages of chocolate processing in factories a lot, but for manual processing they have never seen, so they want to learn very much by visiting villages.

The Mười Cương Cacao Garden has an area of 1,2 hectares, planted with 2000 Cacao trees, was built in the 1960s and has been maintained until now. Cacao processing has been a traditional family business since 1960. In the beginning, Cương’s father went to Malaysia to bring seeds to Vietnam and grew them. In his hometown, there has been more and more farmers growing after 3 years. When the trees were so fruitful, but the locals did not know how to use their fruits, they ruined all of them. Apart from Cuong’s family, the father asked his children not to cut down trees and had his children find information from books and documents to know how to make chocolate, then they tried to make it from Cacao. At that time, Cuong came across a French book, his sister and he read and studied. Fortunately, they made excellent chocolate products (1963). He still holds the book until now. This family is one of the first families in Vietnam growing and processing Cacao… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Food and Drink

Free Can Tho Food Tour – 6:30 PM Daily

If you are a fan of culinary culture this Tour is made right for you. Join us on a route through the heart of Can Tho City by night and savour pleasant dishes at different spots; every bite you taste will have an incredible story to tell you, because many of them have come to the present from an ancient past and an agriculture root.

Free Can Tho Food Tour is a unique gastronomic tour, where you decide how much you will eat and how much you will spend. There is no predetermined menu, no obligation to eat anything, everything will be according to your taste, choices and budget. Read more info before booking a free tour here

Cong Cake (Banh Cong)

Find them: De Tham Street and Ly Tu Trong Street, An Cu Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City

Best time: After 2pm

Don’t miss: Spring roll

Local’s pick: Banh Cong Co Ut

Tourist’s pick: Many Cong cake local restaurants in Can Tho city center.

It’s called “Banh Cong” because people use a “Cong” to cook. A “Cong” has a long handle and looks like a small metal milk bottle. In the Mekong Delta, people still use “Cong” as a unit of measures in dealing at the market. “Cong” has many sizes:  ½ “xị”, 1 “xị” (4 “xị” equal to 1 liter), ½ liter, 1 liter and the biggest size is 2-liters Cống.

The “Cong” used to make Bánh Cong has only one size with diameter 5 cm, height 5cm with the handle about 1 span. The “Cong” used to fry Bánh Cống does not have cylinder shape like the “Cong” used for measuring, it has the bottom a little smaller than the topping, it helps Banh Cong to float up once it is done.

Banh Cong is made with rice flour mixed with wheat flour to keep Banh Cong soft and crispy. You can use rice flour or soak rice then grind to make Banh Cong. Rice flour grinded is always better than buying rice flour from the market because it keeps the fragrant flavor. If you don’t know how to select rice flour at the market you can easily get old, moudy flour and make your cake sour and bitter.

Banh Cong is always served with sweet-sour fish sauce, lime and minced chili. Fish sauce adds more shredded cucumber, carrot and radish. Aromatic herbs are fish mint, lettuce, basil, herb mint… Read more info & pictures

Ut Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli in Can Tho

One of Can Tho’s best authentic foods is Ut Dzach fine rice vermicelli (Vietnamese name: Bánh hỏi mặt võng Út Dzách Cần Thơ) where a real food lover always adds it in their wishlist. It is a very fun activity to give a try, and super yummy to go for this authentic food.

Absolutely, you will see the real Can Tho villages and local life on the way to Ut Dzach family. The owner will serve you the home cooked fine rice vermicelli which is about VND 50,000 – VND 70,000 per person. Top tip: Do not forget to explore a lovely backyard garden.

Banh Hoi is considered by the government as an authentic and traditional cuisine of Can Tho people. That means a lot for the Can Tho food culture and its values. What a responsible place for the locals and tourists to come and understand more about this food. Top tip: Many news and media talk about this secret food and its flavor… Read more info & pictures

My Khanh Tourist Village

Ticket: 60,000 VND pp

Spend-time: An hour (approx.)

Hours: Daily 5 am – 10 pm

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/my-khanh-tourist-village-can-tho/

Address: 335 Lo Vong Cung Street, Phong Dien District, about five kilometers from Can Tho City by road or river.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from My Khanh tourist village? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Cacao farm (10 minutes away), Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery (10 minutes away).

Visiting My Khanh Tourist Village, visitors in Vietnam can experience the old days of southern life by taking on the costume (rental service) of a rich landlord who lived in a big house or of a normal traditional farmer to feel the difference. As a rich landlord, you can enjoy fruit, hot tea and listen to music from a hand-operated gramophone made more than 300 years ago. As a farmer, you are given the opportunity to work and prepare meals as southern farmers did in the past.

There is the 100-year-old southern house that was moved piece by piece from Can Tho’s Binh Thuy Ward and reassembled…Read more info & pictures

Son Islet (Con Son Islet) Can Tho

Ticket: From 20,000 VND for the ferry and 200,000 VND for a package. 

Spend-time: 2 – 3 hours (approx)

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/con-son-islet-can-tho/

Address: Opposite Co Bac ferry station, Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City. Please Google Maps “Ben Pha Co Bac” for Son islet in Can Tho.

Added values: Like a miniature Can Tho space, Son islet is vividly shown with a very simple, rustic and cool place by fruit gardens all year round.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Son Islet and Ecotourism Village? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Binh Thuy ancient house (15 minutes away), Bang Lang Stork Garden (1 hour away).

On Son islet, snakehead fish are very interesting, the locals can them fly high, beautiful, and simultaneously to grab the bait, but it takes a lot of practice.

With about 80 households on the Son islet, if you really understand the feeling of a homestay in the garden on the weekend, you will love Con Son the most. In the early morning, walking, enjoying the landscape of the garden, listening to the birdsong, the sound of leaves and dew drops, the sound of fish wagging their tails in the pond… At noon, lying in a swinging hammock, enjoying the cool river breeze, taking a nap in the middle of the day. In the afternoon, canoeing around the canals and gardens to visit fruit trees. After that, eat a delicious meal like “canal fish, homegrown vegetables and free range chicken”, it’s delicious! …Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Hidden Gems

Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base

The Gian Gua relic site, with its giant ficus trees over 100 years old, is a tree that represents the wetland ecology of the Mekong Delta. This site used to have a very large area, but due to the destruction of war bombs and the impact of the environment, now only about 2,700 m2. Coming to the Gian Gua relic, visitors feel surprised and overwhelmed by a solid primeval rig, with many trees and branches interwoven and intertwined like a giant net, so sometimes the tourists don’t know which is the root, or where is the branch. There are branches still imprinted with traces of war with cuts and patches caused by bombs and bullets. However, with intense vitality, those ficus trees still sprout and stretch to radiate shade. This is probably the one-of-a-kind ficus giant tree in Vietnam. Currently, it has spread over an area of about 4,000m2.

In particular, this place was also the site of revolutionary activities during the two periods of resistance against the French colonialists and the American empire. During the anti-American era, many meetings took place here to implement resolutions and directives of the Party Committee of the District and Provincial Party Committee; In 1961 – 1965, this site was a secret facility to open training courses, to train special forces in the inner city of Can Tho. Gian Gua Can Tho is also a place where weapons and ammunition are stored, contributing with the armed forces and the people to defeat the war strategies of the US… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields & Off the Beaten Track

As Mekong Delta build up over the years, they get formed in the shape of a triangle and the deposits in this formation are of rich alluvium, which are ideally suited for growing wet rice, as is done now extensively in the Mekong Delta where farmers and fishermen live to pursue their vocation of farming and aquafarming. Walking around the green or saffron yellow rice fields and learning deeply about the “white gold” in Vietnam are fantastic and educational experiences in Can Tho. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Best time to see Can Tho and its rice fields is March, April, May. Off the beaten track with Can Tho scooter tours is a must…Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Brick Kiln

Mekong Delta is not only famous for rice fields, small canals, floating markets…but it is also charming about local traditional brick factories in Vinh Long, Ben Tre and Can Tho. Nowadays, there are some mud brick kilns located along Mekong river tributaries where the explorers can pay a visit during their cruise trip or cycling tours.

Book tour: Afternoon in Can Tho & Sampan ride

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

As you know, kilns and hidden gems in the Mekong Delta are always in the countryside or along the rivers. The cheapest and smartest way to unlock those things are by bicycle, scooter or sampan. Top tip: Brick kiln means Lò Gạch or Làng Gốm in Vietnamese. You can ask locals about this place…Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Beach

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: An hour (approx.)

Hours: Dawn – dust

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-beach/

Address: Cai Khe Ward, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho beach? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (15 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (15 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (20 minutes away).

The locals clearly enjoy spending time there in the afternoon and evening, sitting in one of the cafes at the beach, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, great views of  Can Tho bridge and local boats along the Hau river or using some of the water activities like jet ski or the boat ride, while kids were playing in the freshwater. Top tip: Freshwater beach and a bit muddy, but it is fun and safe to make “a swim of your life in the magic Mekong river. Do not forget to wear a life jacket. )… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho History and Culture

Can Tho History

On the painted map of A.Pouyanne, ancient Can Tho is a land along rivers and canals with a high capital of over 2.50m. This natural feature is an advantage for residents. In the book of Can Tho in the past and now researcher Huynh Minh has extracted a section of the book of the Gia Long Minh Mang period describing the position of the Can Tho river as follows: “Can Tho River is in the east of Phong Phu district 3 miles, the west bank of Hau river, 4 truong wide, 2 and a half deep. The west bank of this river has the former director of Zhenjiang religion. Starting from the south of Dai Giang flowing down, connecting the Bon river, then because the river mouth flows through Da Danh, da Rang, 13 miles away from Ba Lang junction. The northern genus flows through the east 12 miles to the Binh Thuy River, and another part is due to the north moving 45 miles to the east and flowing into Kien Giang port of the border, calling it “Be gate”. The residential community here from the old days consisted of a division of soldiers and families of the army of Ha Tien and Rach Gia following their husbands, followed by their father to reside in Tran Giang. Another part is the people who come from the outside to come in, from the East go down and stay on Tran Giang land.

The historical time of the formation of Can Tho land was opened and present on the map of Vietnam since 1739, with the name Tran Giang. If further, this land appeared and existed during the formation of the Mekong Delta from BC. On February 23, 1876, after taking over the entire southern province of the province, the French colonialists decided to take the decree of Phong Phu (Tran Giang) and a part of An Xuyen and Tan Thanh districts of An Giang province (King’s time). Minh Mang) to establish Can Tho county.

During the invasion of the French colony in Vietnam, (Till 1876) French chose Can Tho as the capital of the Western (before that, it was Phong Phu district of Vĩnh Long province). When the American empire took over from the French colony, government of Ngo Dinh Diem (Ngô Đình Diệm) decided to change the name “Can Tho” into “Phong Dinh” province. After the unification of the whole country (Can Tho was the last city to fall to the North Vietnamese army, on May 1, 1975, a day after the fall of Saigon), Can Tho became the township of Hau Giang province. Untill 1991, Hau Giang province was separated into two smaller provinces: Can Tho and Soc Trang (Sóc Trăng). Now, Can Tho city is an independent municipality at the same level as provinces of Vietnam. It was created in the beginning of 2004 by a split of the former Cần Thơ Province into two new administrative units: Cần Thơ City and Hậu Giang Province.

Can Tho Museum

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: An hour (approx)

Hours: Tue, Wed, Thu: 8 am – 11 am, 2 pm to 5 pm and Sat, Sun: 8 am – 11 am, 6:30 pm to 9 pm).

Food:

Shop:

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-museum/

Address: on the corner of Hoa Binh and Tran Quoc Toan streets.

Added values: This large, well-presented museum brings local history to life with manikins and life-size reproductions of buildings (5000 objects and historical relics).

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho museum? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (10 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (10 minutes away), Ong pagoda (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (15 minutes away).

It was established in 1976 with a total surface area of 2,700 square meters. This large, well-presented museum brings local history to life with manikins and life-size reproductions of buildings (5000 objects and historical relics).

The museum, with ample English translations, exhibits Can Tho historical relics about cultures and inhabitants in Can Tho through historical periods, native plant and fish specimens, rice production achievements of three main ethnic minorities: Kinh (Viet), Hoa (Chinese Vietnamese) and Khmer during the process of nation building and national defense and development, which has resulted in today’s beautiful Tay Do land.

In 2000, Can Tho museum was established and put into operation with the following fundamental contents of exhibition….Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Nightlife

Can Tho Night Market – Ninh Kieu Night Market

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Half an hour (approx.)

Hours: Daily from 6 pm to 11pm

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-night-market/

Address: 138, Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho night market? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (15 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (15 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (20 minutes away).

It is divided into two zones. The first one (Ninh Kieu night market) sells clothes handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, foods, coffee on the pavement…and the other night market zone (coconut market) serves food from dozens of mobile stalls, with vendors who are well versed in the point-and-nod style of ordering. Most of the food can be munched while strolling and is more of a snack than a meal, but what’s on offer can change from day to day, so it’s best to just go and see what is available. There are some side spots around the night market like a plenty of local restaurants (Vietnamese and your foods), pubs & bars, hotels, local shops, convenience stores, even the travel agents…Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Rooftop Sky Bar

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: An hour (approx.)

Hours: 3 pm – 11 pm

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-rooftop-sky-bar/

Address: Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho sky bar? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Can Tho prison (15 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (15 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (20 minutes away)… Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Festivals, Sports and Outdoor Activities

Can Tho Light Festival

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: Two hours (approx.)

Hours: March

Food:

Shop:

Parking lot: Yes

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-light-festival/

Address: 32, Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City. Right across from the temple is the Ho Chi Minh statue.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho light festival? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Ong pagoda (5 minutes away), Can Tho prison (5 minutes away), Munirangsyaram pagoda (10 minutes away), Can Tho museum (15 minutes away), Tarot museum (15 minutes away).

Ninh Kieu wharf is a place that attracts many tourists because of its poetic scenery and romantic river. Ninh Kieu wharf is also a familiar address for many boat racing festivals, folk festivals, flower festivals and especially Can Tho light festival…Read more info & pictures

Can Tho Health and Safety

Dos and Don’ts for Your Trip to Can Tho

Practical tips: Ways to save, Internet, Water, Learn a little Vietnamese and pro Tips

Ways to save:

Stay somewhere with free breakfast. Many budget hotels offer free breakfast to guests.

Eat street food. Food stalls are cheap and plentiful and are a great place to try regional specialities.

Travel by bicycle/motorbike. These two-wheeled bikes are among the cheapest ways to get around Can Tho and Mekong Delta region.

Stick to free attractions. If you’re really tight for cash, attractions such as markets cost nothing.

Can Tho group tours. If you want to see and learn as much as possible with your limited time.

Internet:

Free Wi-Fi can be found everywhere from hotels to coffee shops. If you are from the EU you should be able to use your own data plan too. Or contact the hotel for the sim card.

Water:

Tap water is supposed to be safe but I advise against drinking it. It’s just not worth the risk. My advice is to use bottled water and save yourself from unexpected stomach problems.

Learn a little Vietnamese:

Sure, you can get by with just speaking English, but trying to speak the local language opens you up to much more polite & meaningful interactions with people. Even if you are not perfect or you make a mistake, your effort is appreciated. At a bare minimum: Hello = xin chao (sin chow), yes = dạ vâng, no = không (khom), thank you = cám ơn (kahm uhn), I’m sorry = tôi xin lỗi (toy sin loy), no problem/you’re welcome = không có gì (khong koh zi), goodbye = tạm biệt (tarm byeet), I’m vegetarian = tôi ăn chay (toy an chayh), How much? = bao nhiêu? (baow nyew), spicy/hot (cay), Oh My God (ôi..choy…oi…).

Pro Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can Tho, Ut Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & Forest, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Organic Cacao farm, Can Tho Floating Markets, Can Tho Small Canals & Sampan Ride, Can Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base, Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating market, Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, Can Tho to Con Dao – Express boat, Son Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary

Important updated on 17th August 2023: The nature itself is still stunning like before. After ending the pandemic Vietnam in 2021, this place took 2 years to attract more birds back to the forest like TODAY. Now This place is the best non-touristy green boat trip canal as a secret gem to visit from Can Tho with 1 hour drive, not 3 hour drive like Tra Su. You can do “Can Tho Wildlife Tour & Forest” as a halfday tour from Can Tho.

The 2,800-hectare forest is an ideal destination for nature lovers. Explore and weave in the untouched wetland of the Mekong delta by boat gives the best experience about wildlife and nature. Visit and study about home-made chocolate at the organic cacao farm on the same day will be great. vemekong.com is the best company designed the unique and exclusive way to explore Can Tho nature & wildlife with bird experts and a perfect experience.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

Can Tho nature and forest tour by vemekong.com

1. Better to Know as a Tourist

Ticket: 50,000VND (visit a part) or 100.000VND

Spend-time: An hour (approx) or stay overnight

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes, local restaurant

Shop: Not really

Parking lot: Yes for coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/can-tho-bird-sanctuary/

Address: 927 Road, Hoa An, Phung Hiep, Hau Giang, Vietnam. About 40km to the South of Can Tho City.

2PM in the forest – a stunning reflection of nature

Recognition(s): Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve is known as the “green lung” of the Mekong Delta But also one of the most unique biodiversity conservation areas of Vietnam.

Added values: Birdwatching or birding in Mekong Delta, Lung Ngoc Hoang forest is one of the most beautiful places for birding in the early morning and afternoon, in the dry and the wet season.

3PM in the forest – light trekking and absorb energy from the nature

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Cai Rang floating market (45 minutes away), Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base (45 minutes away)…

2. Travel Guide to Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary

3:30PM in the forest – feel the ray light of the sun

About 40 kilometers from Can Tho city, the wetland conservation is one of Can Tho hidden gems for anyone who loves to see a real Mekong Delta beside Can Tho floating market. Only best way to explore this place is to take the boat! Wonderful natural green canals and feeling like nowhere in Vietnam. Top tip: Trekking or staying overnight will bring you chances to explore nature & wildlife.

If you are a true nature lover, you would love to be in nature any time like us! Best time for Mekong is in the dry season from December to April, but the best time to visit this wetland is in the flooding and raining season when the fish, foods, birds come back & wake up nature and wildlife. When the flood comes, the water lettuce covers the whole area of the forest and wild canals, this makes the destination such unforgettable landscapes. For other times of the year, especially during the dry season, visitors will see nature’s beauty in different ways as true nature explorers… Since 2016, 2017 the forest has attracted tourists. However, it wasn’t until 2019 the local bridge and road official upgraded so much better. Top tip:  The first week of November is top-notch.

4PM in the forest – weaving into the heart of Mekong nature

Is it safe to visit it during the wet season? The more you know about wildlife the more you respect nature and our rainforest in Mekong Delta. Totally fine! The forest opens all year round! There are even more elements to see during the wet time! As a real traveller, we believe that you will love nature at any time of the year.

3. What to Do and Eat at Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary

4:30PM in the forest – breathtaking views in the flooding season

There are two local jungle restaurants here where you can consider on fish, Mekong River specialties, rice rats (taste like… rabbit?), snakehead fish, frog, sesbania sesban flower – bong dien dien, water lily, river morning glory…are some “forest” foods you may give a try in the forest and nature.

Book Can Tho Daily Tours:

Can Tho Wildlife Tour & Boat Trip in the Forest AM or PM (include the binocular for birding)

Can Tho Floaing Market & Wildlife 5am-12noon tour (include the binocular for birding)

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

Birdwatching or birding in Mekong Delta, this forest is one of the most beautiful places for birding in the early morning and afternoon, in the dry and the wet season. Scientists estimate that it is home to over 76 species of waterfowls and birds like asian openbill (dull bill with gap between mandibles, dirty greyish-white plumage with black tail, lower scapulars and flight feathers), milky stork, indian cormorant (relatively small, short, stubby, mostly pale bill, short neck, all dark with whitish chin), yellow bittern, chinese pond-heron, white-breasted waterhen, grey-headed swamphen, short-toed coucal, collared kingfisher (blue upperside with variable turquoise wash, white collar and underparts, faint creamy-buffish wash on lower flanks, mostly dark bill) and the most endemic species of any country in southeast Asia. Top tip: Contact vemekong.com for a perfect birdwatching tour with a local travel expert.

4. Free Itineraries from VeMekong

5PM in the forest – green water duckweed surrounded

As a local travel expert, we have some ideas for you to think about.

From Can Tho city center:

Route 1: Hotel in Can Tho center – boat station – floating market – small canal – the forest [half day]

Route 2: Hotel in Can Tho center – cacao farm or rice noodle factory – the forest [half day]

Route 3: Hotel in Can Tho center – Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base – the forest – hotel in Can Tho center [half day]

Route 4: Hotel in Can Tho center – boat station – floating market – small canal – rice noodle factory – the forest – Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base [long tour]

If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life. Top tip: If you are looking for the customized package Can Tho day tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

5. Google Maps of Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary

Google Maps made a name for itself helping people travel from one place to another, avoid traffic (You probably know the route from your hotel to the gas station by heart, but what you can’t be sure about is gridlock), measure a distance, get back to the hotel on time, share the location…

6. Visit Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary by yourself

5:30PM in the forest – thousand birds coming home in 2020

Solo traveller? Travelling on your own means you will get out of any difficult situations by yourself. This, in turn, leads to more satisfying travel experiences and helps you improve your problem-solving skills. These days we rarely get the chance to sit with ourselves and simply be. That’s why you should consider the time you spend alone on your trip as a gift.

Book Can Tho Daily Tours:

Can Tho Wildlife Tour & Boat Trip in the Forest AM or PM (include the binocular for birding)

Can Tho Floaing Market & Wildlife 5am-12noon tour (include the binocular for birding)

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

Visiting the forest by yourself is very okay. Budget travellers and adventure tourists can reach and visit it by motorbike as well. If you can, we do recommend doing so, because Hau Giang motorbike tours or Can Tho motorbike tours are very chill and off the beaten paths and can stop to explore some hidden gems along the way as well. You will enjoy it more than other ways so much. Making it in the dry season will help more. If you have no guided tour, you need to know that the ticket for forest entrance has no local guide and rarely english speaking staff in this spot. Sometimes it takes more time to work out how to spend time each spot with the translation app. Top tip: The wifi and internet in the forest is not stable enough to use online translation app. Take some water if you want to do light trekking with the locals! 

7. Responsible Travel and Advice to Visit Can Tho Wildlife & Nature & Bird Sanctuary

5:45PM in the forest – view from the watching tower in 2020.

We are glad to see a lot of foreigners, expats and Vietnamese tourists paying a visit to nature and forest instead of the theme park or malls. This forest itself means a lot for responsible behavior and nature values. As a local expert travel guide, we would take a friendly-reminding of you that “leave nothing but footprints, take nothing but pictures, kill nothing but time”. Top tip: One of the first local travel companies in Mekong Delta thinking, acting and running responsible travel is vemekong.com (very exclusive Mekong), feel free to support and book eco, responsible tours with them. 

8. Amazing Video flycam/drone of the forest (4k)

If a picture says a thousand words, it stands to reason that the video says many times more.

9. Incredible Tips for Photography, Specialists, KOLs, Media and Influencers

6PM in the forest – CHILL CHILL AND CHILL

To get the best of the best for your unique writing, featuring, photo, video and insider’s stories. We do recommend you to have a local travel expert, the one who always gets more ground information and makes sure every single element is solved perfectly. Vemekong (very exclusive Mekong) team is your priority choice. Email and have a private talk with them to customize your journey smoothly, personal and the most ultimately amazing. You can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

10. Pro Tips

6AM in the forest – CHILL CHILL AND CHILL

Can Tho Trekking or staying overnight will bring you chances to explore nature & wildlife.

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

6:30 AM in the forest – time for birdwatching

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Binh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Best Location Hotels in Can Tho, Vietnam

As a Can Tho travel expert, I regconized top-notch resort & hotels in Can Tho for your worth experiences.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

Best Extended Can Tho hotel is Azerai Resort on Au islet

RESORT:  AZERAI CAN THO

Azerai resort is the best-rated resorts & its’ locations in Can Tho, Vietnam! Azerai ‘affordable luxury’ resort, is a unique oasis of calm on culturally fascinating Hau River, a tributary of the Mekong. Its exclusive setting means is only accessed by boat. The Azerai Can Tho combines the familiarity of a global five-star brand with the eclectic touch of a boutique hotel. Add: Con Au Islet, Can Tho City; phone: +842923627888; hotel website: Azerai Can Tho; price range: From 5,888,000 VND (~ 256 USD), Maps.

Vinpearl Can Tho Hotel

HOTEL: VINPEARL CAN THO

Vinpearl hotel is one of the best extended stay 5-star hotels in Can Tho! With the romantic view of Can Tho river, as part of the complex of 5 star hotel, high end shopping and entertainment center, Vinpearl Can Tho is an ideal hotel with a combination of modernity and traditional culture of Can Tho. Add: 209 30/4 Street, Can Tho City; phone: +842923761888; hotel website: Vinpearl Can Tho; price range: From 1,265,000 VND (~ 55 USD), Maps.

KQ hotel – a former name of KP hotel now

CITY CENTER HOTEL: KP

KP hotel is one of the most favorite and walking-distance hotels. It offers very affordable luxury combining modern elegance, refined garden design and great caring stay. It is located in Can Tho city center, 400 metres from Ninh Kieu Wharf.

Amenities. There are 23 rooms of personal experience mixed with smart eclectic touch in the hotel. Tourists can choose between different types of rooms: family room with bath, deluxe double room with balcony, standard double room with terrace, junior suite with garden view. Lodgers at the hotel have facilities such as minibar, safety deposit box, telephone, air conditioning, hairdryer, refrigerator, desk, along with free WiFi. The bilingual staffs and concierge service are always available at a 24-hour front desk to assist guests with check-in or arranging room service, tickets & shuttle transfer, laundry service, currency exchange, recommending best things to do and see in Can Tho and other inquiries.

Bottom Line. This property is also rated for the best value in Can Tho! Guests are getting more for their money when compared to other properties in this city.

More information. Add: 09 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia street, Can Tho City; phone: +842923731313; KP hotel; price range: From 707,000 VND (~30 USD); Maps.

Pro Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Can Tho Floating Markets, Vietnam – Can Tho Visitor Guide

In this article, you can find insight details about Cai Rang floating market and Phong Dien floating market in Can Tho, Vietnam: How to get, when to go, what to see & eat at Can Tho floating markets. To get the spirit of Can Tho, the floating market is a must-see because it shows you what river culture is, how local people can adapt to the geography and how they can maintain this kind of very traditional market until now. It is a process. It is not random.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide | 7-floating-market Vietnam Cai RangLong XuyenNga NamPhong DienChau DocCai BeTra On

Phong Dien floating market, Can Tho, Vietnam

1. Better to Know as a Tourist

Ticket: Free

Spend-time: An hour (approx) for Cai Rang floating market, Half an hour for Phong Dien one

Hours: Dawn – dusk

Food: Yes

Shop: Yes

Parking lot: Yes for boat, coach

Blog: https://vemekong.com/guide-to-can-tho-floating-markets/

Address of Cai Rang floating market: Cai Rang Bridge, Cai Rang District, Can Tho City. About 6 km from Can Tho city center.

Address of Phong Dien floating market: Tay Do Bridge, Nhon Ai, Phong Dien District, Can Tho City. About 17km from Can Tho city center.

Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho, Vietnam

Recognition(s): Cai Rang floating market was recognised as a national intangible cultural heritage in June 2016. The UK’s Rough Guide selected Cai Rang Floating Market as one of the ten most impressive markets in the world, characterized by colorful boats selling tropical agricultural products.

Added values: It is considered as one of the gems worth discovering for those who are passionate about simplicity and uniqueness and originality of the cultural Mekong river life now and then.

Nearby attractions and hidden gems: Looking for places to stop on your way to and from Cai Rang floating market? Or maybe you found it too crowded here? We’ve got some ideas! Check out our list: Organic cacao farm (30 minutes away by boat), fruit gardens (30 minutes away by boat), Can Tho rice noodle factory (1o minutes by boat).

2. Why Can Tho Floating Markets Occur ?

The sunrise at Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho, Vietnam

There were no cars, trucks some decades ago, so waterways were the main transfer in southern Vietnam. Because Can Tho is the biggest city there, Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets are well known besides many beautiful tropical orchards and traditional villages. Although modern life is invading, the floating market still is the soul of the city with “country side environment”.

With the advent of several new road networks and bridges over many rivers, as well as the setting up of supermarkets on the mainland, the indispensability of floating markets has been dented somewhat, but the waterways still offer the only route to several rural remote areas in the Mekong Delta region. Many locals still prefer floating markets, which have been a part of their daily lives and livelihoods for generations

3. Best Time to see Can Tho Floating Markets

The children and the dog at the market

Book & support directly to local: Can Tho Floating Market & non-touristy long small canals Tour (5am-10:30am, 100% satisfied tailor-made tour, recommended this beautiful canals tour)

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

For Phong Dien floating market: As a local expert, we do know that the Phong Dien floating market will be no more after 7:30 am. Because this one is very small and very local, there are about more or less 45 boats and sampans at this market, you can watch our drone video 4k to know more. Let’s tell you, we inspect this market a lot and it is always busy and real touching is at the sunrise and the locals start to go home about 6:45a.m. Top tip:  Best enjoying time to be right at the spot is from 5:30am-6:30am. I hope you have an amazing sunrise on the Mekong Delta river.

The authentic Phong Dien foating market

For Cai Rang floating market: The floating market has made a contribution not only to cultural exchange but also waterway economic development. The market opens every day from sunrise until evening and the busiest time is from dawn until 9:30 a.m. In the early morning, the waterway becomes a maze of hundreds of boats and junks of all sizes are anchored along the river about a kilometre; all carrying a variety of seasonal fruits and vegetables. Traders come to the market to buy fruits and vegetables and then bring them to other markets or the big trucks will take them all to many mainland wholesale markets (mainly in HCMC). Unlike shops and stalls in ordinary markets, sellers cannot cry out to advertise their wares since it is impossible to be heard amidst the noise of running boat engines. That is why it is essential for each boat to display a long upright pole (the locals call “Cay Beo”) at its bow on which the sellers hang samples of their products. If they sell bananas and durian, they will hang bananas and durian on the pole (“Cay Beo”) so that buyers can see what items are on sale from a distance. This way of selling is simple but has existed over a hundred years.

4. How to Get to Can Tho Floating Markets from Can Tho City

Can Tho sampan ride for Cai Rang floating market and small canals

Cai Rang floating market. The largest floating market in Can Tho, Vietnam, and one of the most popular in the world, the Cai Rang floating market is an exciting, colorful hub of many wholesalers. It is crowded and noisy (with many tourist boats), but still fascinating. The market, about 6 km (3,7 miles) or 30 minutes by boat from Ninh Kieu wharf.

Phong Dien floating market. About 18 km (11,1 miles) or two hours by boat from Ninh Kieu Wharf, Phong Dien retail floating market is one of the most lively and colorful markets and, as an added bonus, less popular with tourists who usually visit the Cai Rang floating market that’s closer to Can Tho.

5. How to Get to Can Tho Floating Markets from HCM City

Phong Dien floating market & small canals tour

From Ho Chi Minh City to Cai Rang floating market by yourself? Take a sleeping Futa bus (125,000 VND per person) to go to Can Tho (about 5 hours one way – 3,5 hours on the bus, and the waiting time for departure, rest stop, pick up, drop off…). When you arrive at the Can Tho bus station, it is about 15 minutes or 6 km to reach Ninh Kieu Wharf by taxi (a taxi costs around 100,000 VND [5$]. Mai Linh taxi (+842923656565). Khanh Cuong taxi (+842923868686) if you have time! You can wait and then take the free Futa transfer service to Ninh Kieu Wharf and let’s tour! Rent a sampan by yourself (about 350.000vnd [~15$] for 2 or 3 people) or rent a boat (about 700.000vnd [~30$] for 7 people) with a roof and life jackets, no tour guide. Another way is to book a package Can Tho Tour From Ho Chi Minh 1 Day (HCM-Can Tho-HCM), pick-up at 04:00 AM at your hotel from Ho Chi Minh city center; 119$ per person). The cheapest way is to take your own Futa bus tickets [6$ pp] from HCMC and get to Can Tho bus station, take a 5-dollar taxi to get to Can Tho market (on Hai Ba Trung street) where the local tour guide always picks up the guests for the local tours, this way, you just pay for the wonderful tailor-made tour with local about 35$ per person not 119$/person. Just a piece of cake, you need to contact Thomas Nguyen WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559, his amazing teams always provide this type of daily tours Can Tho Floating Market & non-touristy long small canals Tour (5am-10:30am, 100% satisfied tailor-made tour)

From Ho Chi Minh City to Phong Dien floating market by yourself? You also take a bus from HCMC to Can Tho. When you arrive at the Can Tho bus station, it is about 35 minutes or 19,5 km to reach Phong Dien floating market by taxi. Many tourists choose to start the tour from Ninh Kieu wharf for Cai Rang floating market first and then Phong Dien one later by boat. This idea is cheaper and safer for the early morning tour.

6. What to Do – See – Eat at Can Tho Floating Markets

“Good morning Vietnam…” is also a good morning Mekong. The girl is enjoying the boat trip to Cai Rang floating market

Cai Rang floating market

Unlike floating markets in Thailand, floating markets in Vietnam, including the Cai Rang floating market, have evolved naturally over a hundred year. Thus, they are not only markets but also bring with them features of traditional culture. This specific feature of the floating market attracts both Vietnamese people and foreign tourists. According to Vemekong inspections, the market has about 300–500 local boats and many tourist boats each day. Trading activities at the Cai Rang floating market are an occasion for visitors not only to buy indigenous specialties but also to sense the hardships of the sellers and learn more about the local peoples. A visit to the Cai Rang floating market is a great way to experience how the local population uses the river canals for transportation and commerce.

The “Cay Beo” upright pole at the market in Can Tho

It is a market for agricultural goods, especially fruits. There are a hundred and one kinds of tropical fruit such as mangoes, mangosteens, rambutans, dragon fruits, longans and the like. You will still somehow find strangely comfortable moments while immersing in the rustic lifestyle of the Vietnamese and breathing in the cool breeze of the great river. A drink seller will also approach you via boat. You can enjoy a fresh coconut, Vietnamese coffee and even try local bun rieu – noodle soup…from the floating boats. A bridge nearby offers great views, but nothing compares to exploring the market by boat. However, only the Cai Rang floating market is not enough to know well about the floating culture of locals. Top tip: In the US program Masterchef season 4, episode 21, broadcast on August 28, 2013 on Fox TV channel, Vietnamese noodle soup has become a difficult topic for the contestants in the top 5. Gordon Ramsay’s favorite dish when he came to Cai Rang floating market, Can Tho, Vietnam. Do not miss the noodle soup (Hu Tieu or Bun Rieu) there!

Phong Dien floating market

BBQ, crab rice noodle soup, banh mi are serving at the floating market as a breakfast.

There are just about 30-45 small nice sampans (traditional farmer’s boats used to use in small villages and small canals) boats every day. Phong Dien market possesses an endearing simplicity because it is known for the sale and exchange of local goods with the native only! There are not many local merchants coming to the floating market on rainy or low-tide days. Top tip: Have breakfast in the floating market with rice noodle soup, pho or rice (about 20.000vnd – 50.000vnd [~1$-2,5$] per one). Enjoy Vietnamese coffee or coconut juice (about 10.000vnd – 25.000vnd [0,5$-1,10$]).

Both Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets are on Can Tho river, so we call the way to visit them is Can Tho River Tour. It is a special tour which flows on a part of the Mekong river. Moreover, there are many amazing things in these markets that make you surprised such as what is the function of the bamboo stick in every boat, why boats have eyes and how local people live in a boat the whole day.

7. How to Find Can Tho Floating Markets Tour by yourself

A lot of homegrown fruits are selling at the river market.

How to grab worthy unique tours which make you not get upset, confusing or wasting travel days to Can Tho and fix your budget as well? We share 3 common options. The first option is a strong budget. You just need to walk to the Ninh Kieu Wharf  and some freelance locals will catch & show you their boats and the price with a typical non-guided tour, still fun and a bit challenging, make sure you got the life jackets and remember to pay the one you deal with, plenty tourists pay around. The second option is much nicer. As you know, most Can Tho hotels offer basic package tours with guide and pick-up, drop off from the hotel. The price is fair and fixed. The last option is the TripAdvisor’s Recommended tours from the newest reviews for sure, as we know, Can Tho River Tour Co.,LTD (WhatsApp/Hotline/Viber/Wechat +84908169205; canthorivertour.com) is a top-notch number one with 99% of excellent of 900 reviews, a well-regarded travel and tour company, set up by a group of passionate Can Tho locals.

The tourists are eating the fresh pineapples on the local pineapple boat

If you do not have much time left, it is easy to check out spots in one full day by boat or with bike or with motorbike and car. But there are much more than tourist sites like these in Can Tho. Make sure you have more time to feel and explore more about the hidden gems and the culture, food, night life, wildlife and forest as well. Top tip: Stay in a homestay nearby, so you have more chances to visit it and surroundings. If you are looking for the package Can Tho day tour with local, you can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

Book & support directly to local: Can Tho Floating Market & non-touristy long small canals Tour (5am-10:30am, 100% satisfied tailor-made tour, recommended this beautiful canals tour)

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

8. Google Maps of Cai Rang Floating Market

9. Google Maps of Phong Dien Floating Market

Google Maps made a name for itself helping people travel from one place to another, avoid traffic (You probably know the route from your hotel to the gas station by heart, but what you can’t be sure about is gridlock), measure a distance, get back to the hotel on time, share the location…

10. Responsible Travel and Advice to Can Tho Floating Markets

It is always good to repeat “responsible travel” over and over. The river itself is facing so many challenges and pollution from chemical and human waste and modern life with high-tech. We do appreciate any of you who do visit and take good behavior to the river and the local village. Top tip: Please take this note “be a part of the solution, not part of the pollution”.

11. Amazing Video flycam/drone of Can Tho Floating Market (4k)

If a picture says a thousand words, it stands to reason that the video says many times more.

Video of Cai Rang Floating Market

Video of Phong Dien Floating Market

12. Incredible Tips for Photography, Specialists, KOLs, Media and Influencers

U.S. visual media company Getty Images has listed the Mekong Delta city of Can Tho among 15 world’s most beautiful canal cities. The largest economic hub in the Mekong Delta, Vietnam’s most productive agriculture and aquaculture region, lies at an intersection of canal and river networks that measure a total of 1,157 km. The Hau River, one of the two tributaries of the Mekong River in Can Tho, Vietnam, flows along the city’s north.

To get the best of the best for your unique writing, featuring, photo, video and insider’s stories. We do recommend you to have a local travel expert, the one who always gets more ground information and makes sure every single element is solved perfectly. Vemekong (very exclusive Mekong) team is your priority choice. Email and have a private talk with them to customize your journey smoothly, personal and the most ultimately amazing. You can contact www.vemekong.com or Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559; email: hello@vemekong.com

13. Can Tho Floating Markets Open during the Lunar New Year?

Cai Rang floating market on Tet holiday (Vietnamese New Year)

We do not think so! Can Tho floating market opens all year round but it does “close” and has no boat and no activities during the traditional Tet Lunar New Year, but the Christmas and Calendar New Year are fine. Top tip: If you make a visit to this market one week before Lunar New Year, you win the best days of the year for the market. This time the market is like the flower floating market, so that many media choose this time for any MV video or marketing PR shots and more.

14. Pro Tips

Can Tho biking tour in the villages and small canals

You can stay in a homestay which is near the Can Tho floating market, this will help you out the best option. Then you can hire a scooter, car or bike and explore it by yourself, but you still need to hire a boat for the floating markets.

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Can Tho Travel Blog – How to Spend 3 Days in Can Tho, Vietnam

I hope this experience will help you travel cheaper, better, and smarter. Unlike other travel blog, these shares are specifically written for real travel-ler! They contain detailed tips, advice, and information so you can get off the beaten path and away from the crowds as well as trekking, cycling, sampan-riding, birdwatching along with 2 floating markets!!

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

Updated Can Tho travel blog

Time: In Can Tho, it is best visited between December and February when it is cool and dry at night. If you don’t like excessive heat, avoid March to June. And if you’re planning on visiting during the rainy (flooding) months, check out our Best Time to Visit Can Tho – Weather & Travel Advice By Months to make your holiday extra activities.

Transportation: In some ways, Can Tho is a very well connected city with the rest of Mekong delta like Phu Quoc, Con Dao, Sadec, Soc Trang, Chau Doc, Ben Tre, Ho Chi Minh City…by bus, car, boat, ferry, airplane.

Can Tho floating market & small canals

Accommodation: If you prefer staying away from the hustle of the city center, you should consider staying on Au islet and riverside which has a fantastic selection of boutique hotels & resorts. It is better for Can Tho River Tour & Wildlife as well.

Water: Tap water is supposed to be safe but I advise against drinking it. It’s just not worth the risk. My advice is to use bottled water and save yourself from unexpected stomach problems.

Internet: Really Wi-Fi can be found everywhere from hotels to coffee shops. If you are from the EU you should be able to use your own data plan too. Or contact the hotel for the sim card.

Hidden gems: Unlock Can Tho’s secrets, landmarks and spots that you’d be mad to miss, even if you’re a local.

Can Tho drone at Cai Rang floating market

Learn a little Vietnamese: Sure, you can get by with just speaking English, but trying to speak the local language opens you up to much more polite & meaningful interactions with people. Even if you are not perfect or you make a mistake, your effort is appreciated. At a bare minimum: Hello = xin chao (sin chow), yes = dạ vâng, no = không (khom), thank you = cám ơn (kahm uhn), I’m sorry = tôi xin lỗi (toy sin loy), no problem/you’re welcome = không có gì (khong koh zi), goodbye = tạm biệt (tarm byeet), I’m vegetarian = tôi ăn chay (toy an chayh), How much? = bao nhiêu? (baow nyew), spicy/hot (cay), Oh My God (ôi..choy…oi…).

What we liked: We really liked the floating markets and saw locals trimming the fresh pineapple for us, then had the cycling ride in the untouched villages and along canals by vemekong.com. OMG this exploration was so much wonderful and fun with 2 wheels and a fantastic local lunch. The chill out romantic sampan 247 for watching the sunset on Mekong river was a wow afternoon. Green green and evergreen canal in the forest too.

What we didn’t like: Not many river restaurants to eat, and not many local shops to “look, love & buy”, even not many Can Tho’s secrets to explore, just okie rooftop bar (but we got the romantic sampan 247 for the sunset) and hard to find more things to do in Can Tho beside the Can Tho wildlife. The transportation from Can Tho to Saigon, Rach Gia, Chau Doc is easy, but it so hard to use the local bus for other places like: Soc Trang, Ben Tre, Sadec, Vinh Long.

Day 1 – Morning

On your first day you get to jump right into best things to do in Can Tho on the river and around the city center. This way, you’ll be able to get your bearings and get a feel for the city before exploring further.

Make sure you set the alarm early today so you can have a wonderful sunrise, then continue your adventures in Can Tho small canals.

If you don’t have breakfast already organized at your hotel we recommend holding off until you get to your first stop of the morning.

Boat ride to visit Cai Rang & Phong Dien floating markets

Must see Phong Dien floaitng market then small water coconut canals

Cai Rang floating market. The largest floating marketing in Can Tho, and one of the most popular in the world. It is crowded and noisy (with many tourist boats), but still fascinating. The market, about 6 kilometers (3,7 miles) or 30 minutes by boat from Can Tho, starts trading at around 4 am, in the dark, and is usually finished by 10 am.

Phong Dien floating market. About 20 km (12,4 miles) southwest of Can Tho, the Phong Dien is one of the most lively and charming markets and, as an added bonus, less popular with tourists who usually visit the Cai Rang floating market that’s closer to Can Tho. There are just about 20 small nice sampans (traditional farmer’s boat uses in small villages and small canals) boats every day.

Best time to visit Phong Dien floating market during the sunrise

How to get to the markets. From Ho Chi Minh city: Take a sleeping Futa bus to go to Can Tho (about 5 hours one way) and rent a sampan by yourself or book a package Can Tho Tour From Ho Chi Minh 1 Day (HCM-Can Tho-HCM), start at 04:00 AM from Ho Chi Minh city; 119$ per person). From Can Tho: You can start the floating market tours with many departures at 4:30 AM, 5:00 AM, 6:00 AM, 7:00 AM

Day 1 – Afternoon

After having some lunch from one of the Can Tho Restaurants around the area (or you should have a light lunch at the Ninh Kieu Wharf), it’s time to continue the sightseeing.

You are sure to love the afternoon, as you’re going to do one of the most romantic and untouched places in the entire city.

Romantic Sampan 247 (Daily 3 pm – 6 pm)

Best things to do in the afternoon in Can Tho
Can Tho sampan ride weaving into the wild canals and local village

Take an exclusive tour “Romantic Sampan” of vemekong.com in the afternoon & navigate quiet canals as you sit back with your loved one. See Can Tho bridge from the water as you sail through a tranquil islet. Visit the unique local brick kiln. Small bottles of fruit cider in an ice cooler box will be provided during the trip! What a romantic Mekong river moment! Top tip: Best option for afternoon boat tour if you do not want cycling or scooters.

Day 1 – Evening

You’re probably tired after a massive day of sightseeing, but it’s not time to head to bed just yet, because there’s still plenty of amazing things to do on this Can Tho 3-day itinerary.

Can Tho Night Market

Can Tho night market

It is divided into two zones. The first one (Ninh Kieu night market) sells clothes handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, foods, coffee on the pavement…and the other night market zone (coconut market) serves food from dozens of mobile stalls, with vendors who are well versed in the point-and-nod style of ordering. Food stalls start appearing at around 6 pm to 11 pm each day. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 6 pm to 11 pm. Make sure you used to with the street foods.

Can Tho Walking Bridge

Can Tho walking bridge by night

If you get to the park by night, it is a time to see Can Tho walking bridge with 2 gigantic lotus flowers made of thousands of neon lights that brighten up the whole area. This is a great spot for taking pictures from the rooftop bar or just simply enjoying the great river view of Can Tho at night. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Beautiful to see the views from sky bars.

Can Tho Old Market

Can Tho old market – and Can Tho riverside restaurant

From 1912 to 1915, Can Tho market (known as Can Tho old market by the local) was renovated at the same time with Ben Thanh market (Saigon), built by the French contractor Broossard et Mopin. Due to its central location, it is convenient for visitors to pay a visit and shop. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 7 am to 9 pm. Shop and support the local. Bargain for fun.

Day 2 – Morning

Walk around the city center and get deeper look at some historic sides. Or Chill out at hotel swimming pool.

Can Tho Museum

It’s located on the corner of Hoa Binh and Tran Quoc Toan streets and was established in 1976 with a total surface area of 2,700 square meters. Exhibitions (with ample English translations). The museum exhibits Can Tho historical relics about cultures and inhabitants in Can Tho through historical periods, native plant and fish specimens, rice production achievements of three main ethnic minorities: Kinh, Hoa and Khmer. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: (Tue, Wed, Thu: 8 am – 11 am, 2 pm to 5 pm and Sat, Sun: 8 am – 11 am, 6:30 pm to 9 pm).

Ong Pagoda

Ong pagoda

Many of the decorative features of the temple, completed in 1896, were imported from China. Local devotees come to this small pagoda to pray before Than Tai, God of Fortune, and Quan Am, Goddess of Mercy. Inside the temple has hundreds of coiled incense hanging from the ceiling which make the temple more magical. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily from 7 am to 9 pm. It is smoky from the incense.

Binh Thuy Ancient House

Binh Thuy old house in Can Tho

About 6 kilometers from downtown Can Tho, the house is filled with features that represent rural areas in the Mekong Delta region. The Binh Thuy French-style house, the privately owned house, was built in 1870 by the Duong family and still managed by the eighth generation. The house was famously used in the 1992 movie “L’Amant” (“The Lover”) based on the novel of the same name by French author Marguerite Duras, directed by Jean Jacques Annaud, telling the story of a young Marguerite Duras and her lover Huynh Thuy Le, set during Indochina times. Top tip: 15,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am to 12 pm & 2 pm to 6 pm. There is usually a member of the Duong family at home to provide limited commentary on the house if you are lucky.

Day 2 – Afternoon

It is fair enough to know both history and nature.

You are crazy to experience the unique flooded forest as a wetland conservation. Cacao farm is on the way as well.

Can Tho Nature & Wildlife

Can Tho floating market & wildlife

The more you know about the wildlife the more you respect the nature and our tropical rainforest in Mekong Delta. About 40 kilometers from Can Tho city, the wetland conservation is one of Can Tho hidden gems for anyone who loves to see a real Mekong Delta beside Can Tho floating market.

Boat trip in the green water duckweed

Only best way to explore this place is to take the boat and some customized activities there by vemekong.com. Wonderful natural green canals and feeling like nowhere in Vietnam. If you are a true nature lover, you would love to be in the nature any time like us!

Birdwatching tour in Can Tho is very popular

Best time to visit Can Tho is in the dry season from Dec to Apr, but best time to visit this wetland is in the flooding and raining season when the fish, foods, birds come back & wake up the nature and wildlife. Top tip: Bring raincoat & insect repellents if you plan to see the nature in the wet season.

Organic Cacao farm

Organic cacao farm in Can Tho

A visit to Muoi Cuong Cacao Farm is both fun and educational experience. Visitors can see and learn how fruit from a cacao tree becomes familiar cacao products such as cacao powder, butter…and of course pure chocolate in a manual way by the local. Top tip: 40,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am to 12 pm. Try yummy cacao wine if you are lucky.

Day 2 – Evening

The best way to understand the culture is via the local food. There you go! Can Tho Waking Street Food Tour. You never know how wonderful hidden gems are in this “Taste of Can Tho”

This walking foodie tour is designed for you to experience the inner city after dark. Enjoy authentic local foods where the native eat & have fun.

Day 3 – Morning

It’s the last of our 3 days in Can Tho, and it’s time to get out of the city center and check the home of paddy rice fields, flower village, tropical fruit garden, giant ficus tree as a heritage tree.

One of our favorite activities was a cycling ride around the village which was very cool, educational and fun trip.

Ba Bo Flower Village

Flower village in Can Tho

What a wonderful moment to see the flowers as the local’s smile on Tet coming holidays. The worth visiting village in Can Tho is the Ba Bo flower village where nearly 250 households in the 20-hectare community cultivate dozens of species of flowers and ornamental plants. The only way to unlock the secret of the flower villages is to take Can Tho cycling tours or Can Tho motorbike tours. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Oct, Nov and Dec of Lunar months.

Tropical Fruit Garden

Crossing the Monkey Bridge in the Can Tho

Along with floating market, visiting fruit gardens is also a must-do in Can Tho. To get to the gardens, you also have to use boats to go deep into the water maze and enter numerous small natural canals. In the gardens, you can stroll around gardens and learn how the fruits grow on the trees like mango, dragon fruit, jack fruit, rambutan, pomelo, rose apple, durian…Top tip: Entrance fee is flexible, hours: Daily 7 am to 5 pm. You can explore many fruit gardens and off the beaten track with Can Tho cycling tours.

Day 3 – Afternoon

It’s been a whirlwind 3 days in Can Tho so far, and we’re almost to the finish line.

For the afternoon on your final day in Can Tho as a rice bowl of Vietnam. We did the most adventure and fun scooter tour, you are on the back with your own local driver.

Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields

Best time to see Paddy Rice Fields in Can Tho during March

As Mekong Delta build up over the years, they get formed in the shape of a triangle and the deposits in this formation are of rich alluvium, which are ideally suited for growing wet rice, as is done now extensively in the Mekong Delta where farmers and fishermen live to pursue their vocation of farming and aqua farming. Walking around the green or saffron yellow rice fields and learning deeply about the “white gold” in Vietnam are fantastic and educational experiences in Can Tho. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Best time to see Can Tho and its rice fields is March, April, May. Off the beaten track with Can Tho scooter tours is a must.

adventure and fun scooter tour, you are on the back with your own local driver.

Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base

Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base

Gian Gua Can Tho is a local name, a 150 year-old heritage tree of Vietnam. The Ficus microcarpa tree now covers an area of 2,700 square meters, much smaller than it used to be, due to the aftermath of war and environmental impacts. It overwhelms visitors with its large roots and thousands branches and sub-branches intertwining to form an intricate and thick canopy, making it very difficult to identify which is root and which  is  branch. Some of the branches are left with traces of bombs as well. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. An instagramable place.

Rice Noodle Factory

9 Cua Rice Noodle Factory near Cai Rang floating market

During Can Tho visit, you may stop by the local family – run business to see the process of how the hủ tiếu noodles are made from mixing tapioca & rice flour, then steaming, drying, and cutting the noodles. And you can taste the local Vietnamese “noodle pizza”. Top tip: Entrance fee is flexible, hours: Daily 6 am to 5 pm. Find the real local noodle factory to meet your responsible travel.

Day 3 – Evening

It’s time once again to choose your own steps! For your final night of 3 days in Can Tho, you’ll want to be sure to get some nice sunset views. Here are a few options:

Can Tho Sky Bar

Best sky bar in Can Tho

Can Tho weather is much healthier at night because of the city of river. Ninh Kieu Wharf is the best place to chill after a long journey, you can easily choose one of many rooftop bars here. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: 3 pm – 11 pm. Bring your camera!

Ninh Kieu Wharf

What a night at Ninh Kieu park!

Located on the bank of the Hau River in Can Tho city, is a calm and chill place to walk along in the late afternoon or the sunset time. Ninh Kieu Park is large and spacious, planted with many beautiful ornamental trees, the highlight of green grass growing and weaving among white cement panels and the statue of Uncle Ho with 7.2m high bronze. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Many good restaurants here.

Best local coffee shop as a hidden gem

If you are looking for something that characterizes French classical style in the heart of Can Tho, Duong Gia Chi Bao is a perfect selection for you. The interior space is a delicate blend of French colonial architecture and Indochinese architecture styles and has the light yellow walls, white ceilings, beautiful old-fashioned floors, curtains and lamps. This café also offers a wide range of antiques and furniture will touch you as if you are coming back to the memory house of ancient Can Tho. Top tip: Entrance fee is free if you pay for a drink, hours: Daily. Bring your camera and novel.

Pro tips

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Can Tho Airport – Guide to Go Fast & Safe

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

1. Can Tho International Airport

Can Tho Airport is formerly known as Tra Noc airport. Tra Noc Airport was originally constructed during the Vietnam War in 1965 by United States Air Force (USAF) civil engineering units as a military airfield, which became Binh Thuy Air Base. It was used by the USAF as well as being the Headquarters of the Republic of Vietnam Air Force (VNAF) 4th Air Division until 1975.

Can Tho Airport opens many international flights to Asia

Nowadays, Can Tho International Airport is located in Binh Thuy District, Can Tho City. Can Tho Airport is a brand new modern civil airbase that was opened at the beginning of 2011. It is equipped with advanced equipment, aviation technology. It is built to primarily serve the Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Can Tho Airport has two floors with two main areas: the right flank from the main entrance is used for domestic departure and arrivals; whereas the left flank is for international flights. Thanks to its latest renovation from 2006 to 2011, services for passengers in this airport is plentiful, from cafeteria, souvenirs or currency exchange to hotel booking and tourism information.

can tho airport departures and arrivals zone

It is served with flights to Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Bangkok (Thailand), Ha Noi, Phu Quoc, Da Nang, Con Dao, Nha Trang, DaLat…The average price ranges from 750,000 VND to 6.4 million VND (32 USD – 275 USD) per flight ticket. Tickets are available on the globally famous site skyscanner.com; vietnamairlines.com; vietjetair.com; bambooairways.com; airasia.com; Currently, there aren’t any direct flights from Saigon to Can Tho, so you have to transit at Phu Quoc or Da Nang Airport for a few hours before continuing onto Can Tho.

2. Can Tho Airport Transfer

After collecting your luggage and leaving the arrival terminal, you will see many taxi waiting for landing passengers right in front of the arrival main entrance. From the airport, it is about 10km (20 minutes) northwest of Can Tho city centre with a really good road. No airport city bus, even no train and coach.

Taxi

Good taxi at Can Tho Airport

A taxi costs around 150,000 VND. Mai Linh taxi; +842923656565; Khanh Cuong taxi +842923868686.

GrabBike

It is available in Can Tho city. It costs about 50,000 VND. The grabber always speaks Vietnamese.

Car hire

Car rental is easy to have at Can Tho Airport

If you prefer a private pickup from the airport and transfer to your hotel or other destinations (Ben Tre, Vinh Long, Rach Gia, Chau Doc, Ha Tien (Cambodia), My Tho, Cai Be, Soc Trang (Con Dao), Ho Chi Minh city, Ho Chi Minh Airport,…Then you can hire a car at vemekong.com ; Email: hello@vemekong.com; WhatsApp/Hotline/Viber/Wechat +84939888559

Concierge services

Finally, if you’re looking for a bit assistance to allow your pickup to run smoothly, opt for concierge service of your hotel.

3. Can Tho Airport Private Transfer Service 24/7

Can Tho Airport has two floors with two main areas: the right flank from the main entrance is used for domestic departure and arrivals; whereas the left flank is for international flights.

Can Tho Private Transfers7 seats car16 seats car22s/29s car45s car, Audi, BMW…
Price$40US$55US$65USContact us

Private Can Tho airport transfer from/to hotel in Can Tho city center

Inclusions: One hour of complimentary wait time and flight tracking. Experienced drivers & vehicles. 24/7 Support. Meeting with a Nameplate. Car seats for children (no extra charges will apply, please inform us in advance).
Exclusions: Romantic and surprising flowers for your partner, boss, birthday or any anniversary. Let us know how many roses you want and the beautiful color for your loved one. We will make sure you get the freshest rose possible – the driver will pick up the rose just before your arrival. Contact us for this special request!
Book directly with us
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
E-mail: hello@vemekong.com
Book/pay Here (the cost of the car seater 7,16…) remember to take note: Time, date, No of people, flight number, where/hotel’s name to pickup/drop-off.

4. Can Tho Private Transfer with Sightseeing

  • Can Tho Transfer To/From HCMC with Cai Be Vinh Long Tour. BOOK/PAY HERE.
  • Can Tho Transfer To/From Chau Doc with Tra Su forest tour. BOOK/PAY HERE.
  • Can Tho Private Transfer To/From Ha Tien with sightseeing at Tra Su forest by yourself. Book/pay Here $170US (7-seater-car), remember to take note: Time, date, No of people, where to pickup/drop-off. THE DRIVER WILL WAIT FOR YOU WHILE YOU ARE VISITING A SITE. JUST LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE IN YOUR PRIVATE CAR!
  • Can Tho Private Transfer To/From Rach Gia with sightseeing at Tra Su forest by yourself. Book/pay Here $170US (7-seater-car), remember to take note: Time, date, No of people, where/hotel’s name to pickup/drop-off. THE DRIVER WILL WAIT FOR YOU WHILE YOU ARE VISITING A SITE. JUST LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE IN YOUR PRIVATE CAR!
  • Can Tho Private Transfer To/From Soc Trang with Sightseeing at Som Rong pagoda by yourself. Book/pay Here $115US (7-seater-car), remember to take note: Time, date, No of people, where to pickup/drop-off. THE DRIVER WILL WAIT FOR YOU WHILE YOU ARE VISITING A SITE. JUST LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE IN YOUR PRIVATE CAR!
  • Can Tho Private Transfer To/From Ben Tre with Sightseeing at the amazing brick kiln by yourself. Book/pay Here $130US (7-seater-car), remember to take note: Time, date, No of people, where to pickup/drop-off. THE DRIVER WILL WAIT FOR YOU WHILE YOU ARE VISITING A SITE. JUST LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE IN YOUR PRIVATE CAR!
  • Can Tho Private Transfer HCMC with Sightseeing Cu Chi Tunnels by yourself. Book/pay Here $165US (7-seater-car), remember to take note time, date, No of people, where to pickup/drop-off. THE DRIVER WILL WAIT FOR YOU WHILE YOU ARE VISITING A SITE. JUST LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE IN YOUR PRIVATE CAR!

5. Private Transfer Can Tho To/From HCMC; Can Tho and Other Destinations in Mekong Delta

It is 169km from HCMC to Can Tho city. The car drive takes about 3,5 hours one way. But at the weekend it may take longer for the traffic and your pick-up point.

As the center of the Mekong Delta region, Can Tho has invested in upgrading their transportation and infrastructure. It also means that traveling to/around Can Tho city won’t take much sweat, especially when you get/around here with our private transfer for your holiday, business trip, wedding, events, expert inspections, and any special trip. Let us know to choose your best vehicle option for your personal line!

From Can Tho to other cities7 seats car16 seats car22s/29s car45s car
Can Tho to HCMC center$119US$120US$175USContact us
Can Tho to Ha Tien$120US$140US$225USContact us
Can Tho to Vinh Long$70US$85US$120USContact us
Can Tho to Soc Trang/Long Xuyen$85US$105US$150USContact us
Can Tho to Chau Doc$100US$115US$175USContact us
Can Tho to Sadec$95US$105US$150USContact us
Can Tho to Rach Gia (speed boat station)$90US$105US$170USContact us
Can Tho to Ben Tre$100US$115US$150USContact us
Can Tho to HCMC airport$125US$135US$190USContact us
Can Tho to Mui NeContact usContact usContact usContact us
Can Tho to Da LatContact usContact usContact usContact us
Your destinations!Contact usContact usContact usContact us

Private Transfer Can Tho From & To Other Destinations in Mekong Delta, HCMC

Inclusions: Experienced drivers & vehicles. 24/7 Support. Meeting with a Nameplate. Car seats for children (no extra charges will apply, please inform us in advance), toll gates.
Exclusions: Romantic and surprising flowers for your partner, boss, birthday or any anniversary. Let us know how many roses you want and the beautiful color for your loved one. We will make sure you get the freshest rose possible – the driver will pick up the rose just before your arrival. Contact us for this special request!
Book directly with us
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
E-mail: hello@vemekong.com
Book/pay Here (the cost of the car seater 7,16…) remember to take note: Time, date, No of people, flight number, where/hotel’s name to pickup/drop-off.

6. Can Tho Boat, Sampan Rental

Can Tho boat, sampan rental for floating market and small canals (Morning, Afternoon and Sunset)

For those who love to spend more time at the market for photoshoots, weddings, filming, interviewing the local at the markets, customizing secret services on boats, depart/return at any time, for KOLs, Media, Youtubers, travel bloggers, Celebs, Tv programmes, news, and personal reasons!

Book directly with us
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
E-mail: hello@vemekong.com

7. Can Tho Motorbike Rental

Very simple! Tell us your destination/hotel or pick-up point, date, time and number of passengers. You will see the best offers for your vehicles.

You can hire Can Tho motorbikes / scooters for one day and overnight.

Book directly with us
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
E-mail: hello@vemekong.com

8. Can Tho Bicycle Rental

You can hire Can Tho bicycles / bikes for one day and overnight.

Very simple! Tell us your destination/hotel or pick-up point, date, time and number of passengers. You will see the best offers for your vehicles.

Book directly with us
Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559
E-mail: hello@vemekong.com

Pro Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Best Time to Visit Can Tho – Weather Advice by Month

In Can Tho, It is best visited between December and February when it is cool and dry at night, while monsoon rains saturate the place between July and November. If you don’t like excessive heat, avoid March to June. Therefore, it doesn’t really matter when you visit, as the Mekong Delta looks fantastic in full sun and full rain. Travel companies may list tours for the rainy period, but plan your trip dates carefully or your trip may be a washout.

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

Local are loading flowers to floating market during Lunar New New!

Being in southern Vietnam, Can Tho has a tropical climate and three seasons – dry, rainy and flooding. Rainy season in Can Tho lasts from May to November; dry season from December to April. There are no typhoons in Can Tho, but annual flooding. It starts from mid-August to October. The total number of sunny hours is 2,561 hours per year (source: Vietnam Institute for Building Science and Technology). Average humidity per month is 86.6%. The least humid month is March (78.3% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (87.9%). Wind in Can Tho is usually calm. The annual average rainfall is 1,946 mm with 189 rainy days per year.

Can Tho weather December, January, February

Harvest time in Can Tho in December, January, February

Weather is perfect this time of year in Can Tho to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 31°C (87.8°F) and 24°C (75.2°F). On average, it rains an insignificant amount. These times of year are the busiest with tourists. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance.

Recommended things to do: Can Tho floating market & wildlife, flower village, best exploring & cycling around countryside, fruit gardens, romantic sunset 247, wildlife and nature, cruising on the green water duckweed with the natural waterways. Two weeks before Lunar New Year is super to see the villages and local life.

Can Tho weather March, April, May

Best time to see Can Tho Sunrise and sunset
Best time to visit Can tho during New Year

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel hot. Highs range from24°C (75.2°F) to 33°C (91.4°F) with similar temperatures in the later months. Rain is rare with 0 to 3 days of significant precipitation per month. These ones are the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Recommended things to do: Can Tho floating markets and small canals, rice fields by scooters, trekking in nature, biking & off the beaten paths, Can Tho city tour & sunset cruise.

Can Tho weather June, July, August

Best time for tropical fruits in Can Tho in June, July, and August

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. Highs range from23°C (73.4°F) to 32°C (89.6°F). and These months see moderate precipitation with 3 to 5 days of precipitation per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Recommended things to do: Can Tho street food tour by scooter, Can Tho walking street food tour, best of Can Tho, Can Tho cooking class.

Can Tho weather September, October, November

Best time to see the green nature and forest in September, October, November from Can Tho

Fall daily highs range from 23°C (73.4°F) to 31°C (87.8°F), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains a normal amount: 2 to 6 days per month. September – November is fairly slow season for tourism in Can Tho, so lodging and other accommodations may cost slightly less.

Recommended things to do: Can Tho River Tour, Can Tho wildlife tours, Can Tho unique tours, Can Tho cycling tours, Can Tho motorbike tours.

Pro Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

20 Best Things to Do & See in Can Tho, Vietnam

Whether you’re an adult, a kid, or just a kid at heart, Can Tho is the perfect place to find adventures and new experiences that the entire family will remember for a lifetime. With the wide variety of activities vemekong.com offers to families, even the toughest critic in your crew is sure to crack a smile. Remember to take lots of pictures as well!

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

1. Can Tho Floating Market & Wildlife

Can Tho Floating Market & Wildlife

Cai Rang floating market is the largest floating marketing in Can Tho, and one of the most popular ones in the world. It is crowded and noisy (with many tourist boats), but still fascinating. The market, about 6 km (3,7 miles) or 30 minutes by boat from Can Tho, starts trading at around 4 am, in the dark, and is usually finished by 10 am. It really is worth making a super-early start to watch dawn break over the market during the sunsise. More exclusive unique exploration is to see the untouched 2,800-hectare forest & wetland conservation, an ideal destination for nature lovers where have many rainforest birds (seasonal). Explore and weave in the wetland by boat gives the best Mekong experience about wildlife and nature. Top tip: Bring raincoat & insect repellents if you plan to see the nature in the wet season.

2. Binh Thuy Ancient House

Binh Thuy Ancient House

About 6 kilometers from downtown Can Tho, the house is filled with features that represent rural areas in the Mekong Delta region. The Binh Thuy French-style house, the privately owned house, was built in 1870 by the Duong family and still managed by the eighth generation. The house was famously used in the 1992 movie “L’Amant” (“The Lover”) based on the novel of the same name by French author Marguerite Duras, directed by Jean Jacques Annaud, telling the story of a young Marguerite Duras and her lover Huynh Thuy Le, set during Indochina times. Top tip: 15,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am to 12 pm & 2 pm to 6 pm. There is usually a member of the Duong family at home to provide limited commentary on the house if you are lucky.

3. Organic Cacao farm

Organic Cacao farm

A visit to Muoi Cuong Cacao Farm is both fun and educational experience. Visitors can see and learn how fruit from a cacao tree becomes familiar cacao products such as cacao powder, butter…and of course pure chocolate in a manual way by the local. Top tip: 40,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am to 12 pm. Try yummy cacao wine if you are lucky.

4. Ba Bo Flower Village

Ba Bo Flower Village

What a wonderful moment to see the flowers as the local’s smile on Tet coming holidays. The worth visiting village in Can Tho is the Ba Bo Flower Village where nearly 250 households in the 20-hectare community cultivate dozens of species of flowers and ornamental plants. The only way to unlock the secret of the flower villages is to take Can Tho cycling tours or Can Tho motorbike tours. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Oct, Nov and Dec of Lunar months.

5. Romantic Sampan 247 (Daily 3 pm – 6 pm)

Can Tho Romantic Sampan 247

Take an exclusive tour “Romantic Sampan 247” of CanThoRiverTour.com in the afternoon & navigate quiet canals as you sit back with your loved one. See Can Tho bridge from the water as you sail through a tranquil islet. Visit the unique local brick kiln. Small bottles of fruit cider in an ice cooler box will be provided during the trip! What a romantic Mekong river moment! Top tip: Best option for afternoon boat tour if you do not want cycling or scooters.

6. Can Tho Museum

It’s located on the corner of Hoa Binh and Tran Quoc Toan streets and was established in 1976 with a total surface area of 2,700 square meters. Exhibitions (with ample English translations). The museum exhibits Can Tho historical relics about cultures and inhabitants in Can Tho through historical periods, native plant and fish specimens, rice production achievements of three main ethnic minorities: Kinh, Hoa and Khmer. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: (Tue, Wed, Thu: 8 am – 11 am, 2 pm to 5 pm and Sat, Sun: 8 am – 11 am, 6:30 pm to 9 pm).

7. Ong pagoda

Ong pagoda

Many of the decorative features of the teple, completed in 1896, were imported from China. Local devotees come to this small pagoda to pray before Than Tai, God of Fortune, and Quan Am, Goddess of Mercy. Inside the temple has hundreds of coiled incense hanging from the ceiling which make the temple more magical. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily from 7 am to 9 pm. It is smoky from the incense.

8. Bang Lang Stork Garden

Bang Lang Stork Garden

Established in 1983 and located 52 kilometers from the center of Can Tho City. Bang Lang bird sanctuary covers only about 2 hectares and is home to thousands of storks as well as many other kinds of birds like cattle egret, ibis, striated heron and painted stork. Top tip: 20,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am to 5 pm. A small garden (man-made) of birds, not about the nature or wetland conservation.

9. Munirangsyaram Pagoda

An Angkor-like tower rises over Khmer Theravada Buddhist temple was built in the 1940s to serve and provide spiritual well-being to Can Tho’s Khmer community. Inside, Doric columns blend beautifully with Asian features, such as seated Buddhas and ceramic lotuses. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 7 am to 5 pm. Wear appropriate clothing & take off your shoes.

10. Phong Dien Floating Market

Phong Dien floating market in Can Tho Mekong Vietnam

About 20 km (12,4 miles) southwest of Can Tho, the Phong Dien is one of the most lively and charming markets and, as an added bonus, less popular with tourists who usually visit the Cai Rang floating market that’s closer to Can Tho. There are just about 20 small nice sampans (traditional farmer’s boat uses in small villages and small canals) boats every day. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 5 am to 8 am. You need to start the early tour at 4:30 am from Can tho city center.

11. Rice Noodle Factory

Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory

During Can Tho visit, you may stop by the local family-run business to see the process of how the hủ tiếu noodles are made from mixing tapioca & rice flour, then steaming, drying, and cutting the noodles. And you can taste the local Vietnamese “noodle pizza”. Top tip: Entrance fee is flexible, hours: Daily 6 am to 5 pm. Find the real local noodle factory to meet your responsible travel.

12. Tropical Fruit Garden

Can Tho Tropical Fruit Garden

Along with floating market, visiting fruit gardens is also a must-do in Can Tho. To get to the gardens, you also have to use boats to go deep into the water maze and enter numerous small natural canals. In the gardens, you can stroll around gardens and learn how the fruits grow on the trees like mango, dragon fruit, jack fruit, rambutan, pomelo, rose apple, durian…Top tip: Entrance fee is flexible, hours: Daily 7 am to 5 pm. You can explore many fruit gardens and off the beaten track with Can Tho cycling tours.

13. Can Tho Old Market

From 1912 to 1915, Can Tho market (known as Can Tho old market by the local) was renovated at the same time with Ben Thanh market (Saigon), built by the French contractor Broossard et Mopin. Due to its central location, it is convenient for visitors to pay a visit and shop. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 7 am to 9 pm. Shop and support the local. Bargain for fun.

14. Can Tho Night Market

Can Tho Night Market & Can Tho Old Market (red roof lights)

It is divided into two zones. The first one (Ninh Kieu night market) sells clothes handicrafts, souvenirs, jewelry, foods, coffee on the pavement…and the other night market zone (coconut market) serves food from dozens of mobile stalls, with vendors who are well versed in the point-and-nod style of ordering. Food stalls start appearing at around 6 pm to 11 pm each day. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 6 pm to 11 pm. Make sure you used to with the street foods.

15. Can Tho Prison

Can Tho grand prison is an important historical site to visit in the city. It was initially built by the French colonists from 1878 to 1886 but then was used by the South Vietnamese and Americans during the Vietnam War. The prison has 21 large and small rooms divided into two ranges: female prisoners and male prisoners, and some special rooms. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: From Mon to Fri from 8 am to 11 am and 2 pm to 5 pm.

16. Phat Hoc Pagoda

It is the most famous Buddhist pagoda in Can Tho city center. On the busy corner of Hoa Binh boulevard and Nguyen Thai Hoc street is a beautiful Buddhist pagoda. Explore the five stories of the pagoda to see Buddhist statues and feel the spirit. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Wear appropriate clothing & take off your shoes when visiting the higher levels.

17. Ninh Kieu Pier

Ninh Kieu Wharf in Can Tho

Located on the bank of the Hau River in Can Tho city, is a calm and chill place to walk along in the late afternoon or the sunset time. Ninh Kieu Park is large and spacious, planted with many beautiful ornamental trees, the highlight of green grass growing and weaving among white cement panels and the statue of Uncle Ho with 7.2m high bronze. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Many good restaurants here.

18. Can Tho Walking Bridge

Can-Tho walking bridge

If you get to the park by night, it is a time to see Can Tho walking bridge with 2 gigantic lotus flowers made of thousands of neon lights that brighten up the whole area. This is a great spot for taking pictures from the rooftop bar or just simply enjoying the great river view of Can Tho at night. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Beautiful to see the views from sky bars.

19. My Khanh Tourist Village

It is best for Vietnamese. My Khanh village, which was established in 1996, features a man-made garden-style eco-tourist. My Khanh tourist village is located at 335 Lo Vong Cung Street, Phong Dien District, about five kilometers from Can Tho City by road or river, with an area of more than 50,000m2 to meet the needs of entertainment and relaxation. Top tip: 60,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 5 am – 10 pm. If you’re an animal lover, you may not want to come here. Although the pig and dog races are adorable to watch.

20. Binh Thuy Temple

Binh Thuy Temple

About 5km from Can Tho City. It was restored many times. The last time was 1909 and has remained until now. Its architecture is different from other temples in the North. The rare and perfect house preserved with the specific character of Mekong Delta in the past century. The house connects with a garden, quite wide but not very long. The festival at Binh Thuy Temple is one of the most famous traditional festivals in Can Tho City. If you come here in April and December, do not forget to join this festival. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily 7:30 am – 10:30 am & 1:30 pm – 5:30 pm.

Pro Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

12 Hidden Gems in Can Tho

Can Tho-Vietnam, being one of the most popular destinations in Mekong Delta, has many of interesting attractions as well. But if you’re a seasoned traveller, so you’ve probably seen most of the places in this city like: Floating markets, boat tours and islands tours…And where are the hidden gems? Is Can Tho still worth visiting if you’ve been here before?

By Thomas Vietnam at vemekong.com | Official Can Tho Visitor Guide

1. Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields

Can Tho paddy rice fields

As the Mekong Delta builds up over the years, they get formed in the shape of a triangle and so the deposits in this formation are of rich alluvium. As a result, It is ideally suited for growing wet rice, as done now extensively in the Mekong Delta where farmers and fishermen live to pursue their vocation of farming and aquafarming. Even walking around the green or saffron yellow rice fields and learning deeply about the “white gold” in Vietnam are fantastic and also educational experiences in Can Tho. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Best time to see Can Tho and its rice fields is March, April, May. Off the beaten track with Can Tho biking tours is a must as well..

2. Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC base

Can Tho giant ficus tree – Can Tho secret VC base

Gian Gua Can Tho is a local name, a 150-year-old heritage tree of Vietnam. The Ficus microcarpa tree now covers an area of 2,700 square meters, much smaller than it used to be, due to the aftermath of war and environmental impacts. Recently, it overwhelms visitors with its large roots and thousands of branches and sub-branches intertwining to form an intricate and thick canopy, making it very difficult to identify which is root and which is branch. Thus, some of the branches are left with traces of bombs as well. How to get there? Firstly, you can use a bike or scooter and cross the ferry, but recently there is a big new road, so cars and taxis can take you traight in front of the entrancce too! Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. An instagramable place too.

Book Can Tho Biking Daily Tours:

Can Tho Biking Tour & Cacao Farm & Giant Ficus Tree (morning or afternoon secret tour)

Can Tho Cycling Tour 1 Day (floating market, giant tree & lunch)

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

3. Can Tho Brick Kiln – Giant beehive Kilns

Can Tho brick kiln – Can Tho giant beehive kilns

Book Can Tho Daily Tours:

Afternoon in Can Tho & Sampan Ride (include the brick kiln)

Hotline/WhatsApp/WeChat/Zalo +84939888559

hello@vemekong.com

A cruise along Can Tho’s tributary is full of unexpected hidden gems, but witnessing the images of red burning brick kilns along the canal’s shores and of the daily life of the brick workers may be among the most truly surprising. Many traditional kilns of this type exist in various parts of Mekong Delta, and Can Tho also has some of them because the three key ingredients of brick production – water, clay, and rice husks – are abundant here. Top tip: Entrance fee is flexible, hours: Daily. A real local life which reminds you about Can Tho ancient time as well.

4. Can Tho Antique & Coffee Shop

Can Tho antique & coffee shop

If you are looking for something that characterizes French classical style in the heart of Can Tho, Duong Gia Chi Bao is also a perfect selection for you. The interior space is a delicate blend of French colonial architecture and Indochinese architecture styles and has the light yellow walls, white ceilings, beautiful old-fashioned floors, curtains and lamps as well. This café also offers a wide range of antiques and furniture will touch you as if you are coming back to the memory house of ancient Can Tho. Top tip: Entrance fee is free if you pay for a drink, hours: Daily. Bring your camera and novel.

5. Can Tho Beach – Bien Can Tho

Can Tho beach – Bien Can Tho

The man-made beach opened in Can Tho on Mekong river’s bank – the local beach. Please, don’t get us wrong, Can Tho beach will not challenge places like Phu Quoc, but it is still a nice place to visit. Moreover, the locals clearly enjoy spending time there during the afternoon, sitting in one of the cafes at the beach, enjoying the relaxed atmosphere, great views of  Can Tho bridge and local boats along the Hau river or using some of the water activities like jet ski or the boat ride, while kids were playing in the fresh water. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Fresh water beach and a bit muddy, but it is fun and safe to make “a swim of your life in the magic Mekong river”. Do not forget to wear the life jacket.

6. Can Tho Floating Markets & Small Canals

Can Tho floating markets & small canals

Many tourists have a limited time and they do not know how to explore Can Tho and its nature before they come. Actually, Can Tho canals is one of the main reasons why Can Tho is more attractive because of its hidden gem, even less touristy and super insight into local unique culture.  We assure that this Can Tho secrets will make your trip more worthy. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Best way to see it by Can Tho sampan, Can Tho cycling tour or scooter tour.

7. Can Tho Sky Bar

Can Tho sky bar

Can Tho weather is much healthier at night because of the city of river. So Ninh Kieu Wharf is the best place to chill after a long journey, and you can easily choose one of many rooftop bars here. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: 3 pm – 11 pm. Bring your camera also!

8. Vemekong – Very Exclusive Mekong

Vemekong – very exclusive Mekong, Vietnam

Vemekong is managed and developed by Can Tho River Tour.,Ltd – a well-regarded travel and tour company (Int. Tour Operating License: 91-005/Issued by: Ministry of Tourism Vietnam), set up by a group of passionate Can Tho locals. Vemekong specializes in hand-crafted, intimate group and even private guided tours with unique activities in Mekong including Can Tho, Sadec, CaMau, Soc Trang, Chau Doc, Ben Tre…private transfer in Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh City and licensed local expert tour guides to match all your travel preferences and wishlists. Custom tours are also available, by boat, sampan, bike, scooters, van, car. WhatsApp/Hotline/Viber/Wechat +84939888559; vemekong.com

9. Can Tho Tarot Museum

Can Tho Tarot Museum

The Museum of Tarot is located in Can Tho City, in the south of Vietnam.  It is combined from six main collections related to Art of Cartomancy: First, Fortune Telling Cards (Tarot and Oracles decks); Second, Books and Historical Documents about Fortune Telling Cards; Third, Art of Cardmaking and Decoration of Fortune Telling Cards (Tarot and Oracle); Next, Art of Magic and Divination tools; Fifth, Magic Stones and Lithotherapy Crystals; Last, Art of Demonology and Haunted Objects. The objects of the museum have a large variety in time from the 15th century to 21th century. Top tip: Entrance fee is flexible, hours: Daily 10 am – 12 pm, 1 pm – 5 pm. A person from the museum will guide you.

10. Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery in Can Tho

As one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Mekong Delta, more than 38,000 square meters, so that is the largest monastery in Can Tho. Southern Truc Lam Zen Monastery is quiet, spiritual and huge with several lakes adjacent to pagodas, and many Buddhist statues behind the main door. It’s not in the Can Tho city center, so you may reach there by motorbike or taxi. Top tip: Free entrance, hours: Daily. Wear appropriate clothing & take off your shoes.

11. Con Son Ecotourism Village

Join hands with local to make tradition sweeties & cakes at Con Son Ecotourism Village

Con Son islet lies on the Hau tributary part of Mekong river as well, so to get there you need to take a boat. This place is community-based tourism where locals share their cultural life. This allows the locals to support themselves and truly improve livelihoods. Most of the families take part in tourism and each family has different interests or activities to offer the visitors. Top tip: 15,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am – 5 pm. The islet is acceptable for all time walking, not cycling or crusing.

12. Can Tho Floating Fish Farm

Can Tho Floating Fish Farm

Located to the North East of Can Tho city center. Can Tho floating fish farm is a freshwater fish farming village formed in the last decades. So visitors can come and enjoy seeing & feeding fish by themselves and you even can take leisure time to interact with the fisherman to learn about different interesting colorful freshwater fish and unlock the secrets of the river habitats on the Mekong river. Top tip: 10,000 VND/ticket, hours: Daily 7 am – 5 pm. The floating fish farms are mainly private houses. Visitors must seek permission to board.

Pro Tips:

If you plan to extend your travel to Can Tho homestay, do not forget to bring mosquito repellent cream.

Visit Can Tho or do any customized tours, please choose reputable providers with boat trips equipped with lifebuoys, jackets, motorcycle and cycling tours with the helmets and. Safety is a priority! Choose Can Tho responsible tours which help you give back while traveling. It’s a cliché, but it’s true.

Can Tho food & drink guide ranges from street food, authentic, fancy to fusion foods. As a tropical land of many fresh vegetables and homegrown gardens, which always make Can Tho cuisines fresh, close to nature and very traditional. If you are a food lover, don’t hesitate to put other bites onto your food lists such as Cong cake in Can ThoUt Dzach Fine Rice Vermicelli

Bring your hat, sunglasses, and sunblock, scarf to wear when visiting temples, pagodas, and the cathedral.

Bring the raincoat if you’re planning a trip to Can Tho in the rainy season, as Can Tho always looks fantastic in the full rain and full sun.

Can Tho tourist attractions are magnificent itself, but if you have enough time, don’t forget to put other places onto your bucket lists such as Can Tho Wildlife & ForestBinh Thuy Ancient HouseOrganic Cacao farmCan Tho Floating MarketsCan Tho Small Canals & Sampan RideCan Tho Fruit Garden, Can Tho Paddy Rice Fields, Can Tho Giant Ficus Tree – Secret VC baseCan Tho Rice Noodle FactoryCai Rang floating market, Can Tho Old Market, Phong Dien floating marketTruc Lam Phuong Nam Zen MonasteryCan Tho to Con Dao – Express boatSon Islet – Community-based Tourism

Hopefully, the above tips will help you to come up with a great plan for your adventure in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Have a safe trip!

“Sleep less, travel more, respect more” – Thomas Vietnam – Local travel expert.

Thank you

Photo of the day

When people ask me what to see in Mekong today. I tell them view our MekongDelta365.

Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory & Villages
March 27, 2021
PHOTO BY THOMAS VIETNAM, MEKONG COLLECTION
Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory & Villages

Nowadays, there are more and more green and responsible tours which are meaningful and educational as well. This is why Can Tho noodle factory is getting popular for both Vietnamese and foreigners to come and explore the cuisine culture and the typical local life in Can Tho, Mekong Delta.