Visit Can Tho: A vibrant, waterfront metropolis in central Mekong Delta

Best time to visit Can Tho

The best time to visit Can Tho depends on your preferences. Like many other cities in Vietnam, Can Tho is located in a tropical monsoon climate zone. This climate makes Can Tho feel hot and humid year-round with no cold season and few storms. Due to the tropical monsoon climate, Can Tho has two seasons. The rainy season lasts from May to November and the dry season from December to April of the following year.

During the dry season, rainfall is minimal, with the average number of rainy days up to 6 days. This period makes Can Tho more favorable for outdoor activities. Travelers can enjoy sunny skies and comfortable temperatures averaging around 26°C. Exploring the city streets and taking in the native way of life are some of the best things to do in Can Tho during the dry season without interruptions from heavy rains or flooding.

The rainy season in Can Tho brings frequent showers and occasional flooding. This can disrupt travel plans, especially in areas prone to waterlogging. Nevertheless, this season provides a distinctive travel experience. Water-based activities, such as visiting floating markets or cruising along the Mekong River, although they are available year-round, may become even more thrilling during the rainy season when water levels rise.

How to get to Can Tho

Can Tho is the gateway city of the lower Mekong basin. As the largest and most modern city in the region, Can Tho serves as the economic hub of the Southwest. The city’s infrastructure is developed with convenient roads and waterways. With an international airport nearby, Can Tho is well-connected with proximate areas by both air and road.

For those traveling from Hanoi or Da Nang, flights are the most efficient option. Major airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and Vietjet Air, operate regular routes to Can Tho. Round-trip tickets typically range from 1,500,000 to 5,500,000 VND, depending on the time of booking and where you take the flight from.

The CT01 expressway from HCMC to Can Tho only takes about 3 hours.

From Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho is about 160 km to the Southwest. Travelers can drive or take a motorbike along QL1A or the CT01 expressway (the latter is for cars only). The journey takes approximately 3 to 4 hours, making it a convenient weekend getaway. Driving during daylight hours is recommended for better visibility and safety.

Where to stay in Can Tho: Top Places from Luxury to Budget-Friendly

The city of Can Tho has a wide variety of accommodation options. This is because the city is a fusion, distinctive in the Southwest, between a compact inner city area spanning 53 km2 and surrounding natural landscapes rich in wildlife. Visitors can choose from luxurious hotels in the city center to eco-friendly homestays in the suburbs. Regardless of your preferences, Can Tho has options to suit your needs.

Victoria Can Tho blends European architecture with lush tropical gardens.

For those seeking luxury, there are several high-end hotels and resorts in Can Tho that stand out. Options like Azerai, Muong Thanh, Charmant Suites, and Victoria provide modern amenities and exceptional service. In particular, Victoria Can Tho is a great option for its blend of contemporary European architecture and lush tropical garden surroundings. This offers both comfort and a refreshing open-space experience.

Can Tho Ecolodge has cottage-style rooms constructed with renewable materials.

For those looking for more rustic and eco-friendly accommodation, Can Tho Ecolodge and Vam Xang Rustic are excellent choices. Notably, Can Tho Ecolodge, a member of the Asia Ecolodge chain, is renowned for its cottage-style rooms constructed with renewable materials and adorned with wooden furnishings. On top of this, the ecolodge operates using green energy, allowing for a sustainable travel experience.

What to eat in Can Tho, Vietnam

Culinary traditions in Can Tho reflect the influence of Khmer, Cham, and Chinese settlers. This gives the local cuisine a unique character that is distinct from other regions of Vietnam. The city’s dishes emphasize the use of fresh ingredients. This includes plenty of edible flowers, herbs, seafood, and other locally sourced products.

One standout ingredient of Can Tho’s cuisine is palm sugar, which is made from the sap or nectar collected from palm trees. Unlike the white sugar commonly used in other parts of Vietnam, palm sugar is favored for its rich, caramel-like flavor. It’s widely used in various dishes. These include stews, stir-fries, salads, drinks, cakes, and desserts.

Fish paste hotpot with seafood (Lau Mam).

Savory dishes in Can Tho are a must-try for visitors. One highlight is the fish paste hotpot with seafood (Lau Mam). Some others include the rich and flavorful duck hotpot with fermented bean curd (Lau Vit Nau Chao) and grilled pork sausage (Nem Nuong). For a light meal, try the crispy fried shrimp savory cake (Banh Cong).

Fried shrimp savory cake (Banh Cong).

A popular snack in the region is coconut candy (Keo Dua), made from coconut milk, malt, and sugar. Originally a specialty of Ben Tre Province, coconut candy has become a well-loved treat across the Southwestern region. This is due to the economic and cultural significance this confectionery product brings about.

The Best 9 Things to Do in Can Tho

Explore the top things to do in Can Tho, from visiting lively floating markets to strolling along picturesque riversides. Regardless of what the itinerary can be, visitors will surely uncover the unique charm of this Mekong Delta gem.

1. Visit Cai Rang Floating Market

Can Tho is intertwined with its complex networks of waterways. With over 158 rivers and canals, including the Hau River and the Can Tho River, the biggest two, water transport has been a part of daily life for years. Among these waterways, Cai Rang Floating Market stands out as a must-visit destination in Can Tho. This tourist hotspot offers a glimpse into the cultural and economic life of the region, all while on water.

The market comes alive early at the break of dawn.

Located on the Can Tho River, about 7 km from the city center, Cai Rang Floating Market is easily accessible. Visitors can rent a boat from Ninh Kieu Wharf or book a guided tour through nearby hotels and resorts. The market comes alive as early as 4 to 6 AM. Thus, start your visit at dawn to fully experience the bustling atmosphere.

Cai Rang Floating Market specializes in selling fresh fruits and vegetables, for which the Mekong Delta is famous. Boats, large and small, converge to trade goods in a lively scene that showcases the region’s agricultural abundance. The vibrant life on the river is where generations of merchant families live aboard their boats.

A lady selling watermelons on her sampan boat. Source: Flickr

Long ago, only sampan boats floated around the Cai Rang Floating Market. They’re small, wooden paddle boats common in Southeast Asia. Today, the market has a mix of larger, fuel-powered boats for cargo and tourist boats equipped with life jackets and roofs for comfort. Some larger boats even serve as floating houses. They have full amenities, hanging decorations, and even pets onboard. You might even spot motorbikes aboard some boats, which allow the merchants to commute on roads once their boats dock.

Boats, large and small, converge to trade goods in a lively scene. Source: Flickr

The bustling vibe at Cai Rang Floating Market is a photographer’s dream. From the break of dawn until the sun reaches its peak, colorful boats of all sizes, full of goods and locals, conduct lively transactions. In chorus, tourists delightfully savor fresh tropical fruits, interact with locals, and witness a lifestyle that has stood the test of time.

A merchant boat pulls up beside a tourist boat to offer fresh fruit for sale. Source: Flickr

While the increasingly developed road traffic has undermined floating markets, Cai Rang remains. It’s as vibrant as it was years ago, thanks in part to tourism. Every year, millions of visitors, both domestic and international, come to Cai Rang Floating Market.

Embarking on a boat tour at Cai Rang Floating Market is a vibrant adventure. As the boat glides over the rippling waters, tourists are immersed in the lively rhythm of a traditional riverside market. Colorful boats brimming with fruits and goods weave through the waterways. The fresh morning air, cheerful chatter, and bustling atmosphere evoke warmth and excitement. Remember to wear a life jacket for safety.

Four sampan boats, fuel-powered, gather to exchange goods and engage in conversation. Source: Flickr

In 2016, Cai Rang Floating Market was designated as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage. More effort is being made for the market to continue to thrive and preserve its cultural significance. A visit to the Cai Rang Floating Market is a great chance none can beat to connect with the soul of Can Tho and the Mekong Delta.

2. Visit Ninh Kieu Wharf and dine aboard a cruise

Visiting Ninh Kieu Wharf is another must-do thing to do in Can Tho. It’s located at the confluence where the Hau River meets the Can Tho River and was once a historical landmark of the city. In the 19th century, during the French colonial period, the wharf served as a trade hub near Can Tho Market, though called by different names then. Over time, it has transformed, dressing in signs of contemporary architecture.

Ninh Kieu Wharf was once a historical landmark of Can Tho. Source: Flickr

At the heart of Ninh Kieu Wharf is Ninh Kieu Park, a 7,000 m2 space that offers visitors a relaxing setting to take in the scenic river views. The park is dotted with stone benches along the walkways, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists to unwind. When the sun sets, the lights are on, and the area comes alive as people gather to stroll, enjoy street food, and socialize in the cool riverside breeze.

Ninh Kieu Pedestrian Bridge is especially enchanting at night.

A short walk from the park brings you to Ninh Kieu Pedestrian Bridge, a stunning S-shaped structure stretching 200m across Cai Khe Canal. The bridge features two lotus-shaped LED light towers and a solar-powered lighting system along the railings. This makes the entire area especially enchanting at night.

Sunset over Can Tho Bridge. Source: Flickr

From Ninh Kieu Wharf, you can also admire Can Tho Bridge from afar, a massive suspension bridge connecting two banks of the Hau River. On top of all these, Ninh Kieu Wharf is also a hub of activity. Its strategic location connects visitors to nearby attractions. These include restaurants, shopping areas, and religious sites.

In the evenings, the entire area near Ninh Kieu Wharf comes alive. Source: Flickr

Meanwhile, dining aboard a cruise in Can Tho offers a perfect combination of culinary delights and charming river views, making it a memorable part of any visit. Most cruises depart from Ninh Kieu Wharf. Among the various options, the Can Tho Cruise and the Victoria Mekong Cruise stand out for their distinct styles and experiences.

The Can Tho Cruise has a rustic design with three spacious floors equipped with modern amenities and open-air spaces. A highlight of Can Tho Cruise is that passengers can savor the rich flavors of traditional Southwestern cuisine. The laid-back atmosphere, coupled with the delicious food, provides an authentic taste of the Mekong Delta.

The Can Tho Cruise has a rustic design with three spacious floors.

The Victoria Mekong Cruise is a 4-star vessel for a premium experience. Launched in 2019, this cruise has 35 cabins adorned with a blue theme. Spread across four floors, the ship includes cabins and amenities on the first three levels. The sundeck on the fourth floor is where guests can relax and enjoy the river views.

Cruise prices range from 800,000 VND to over 1,000,000 VND, depending on the vessel and booking time. Tours typically depart early in the morning or late in the afternoon for optimal weather and scenic views. With relatively similar itineraries, you almost can’t get it wrong when boarding a cruise in Can Tho.

3. Check out Ong Temple

Located only 300 meters south of Ninh Kieu Wharf along Hai Ba Trung Street, Ong Temple is a remarkable cultural and historical site in Can Tho. Known officially as Quang Trieu Hoi Quan, this temple was originally established in 1894. Back then, this place was a meeting hall for Cantonese Chinese migrants who came from Guangzhou and Zhaoqing in the 17th and 18th centuries. Over time, it became a place of worship and cultural gathering, earning recognition as a national historical relic in 1993.

The temple is more commonly known as Ong Temple among local people. This is because its main hall is dedicated to Guan Gong (Guan Yu), a revered historical figure in Chinese culture. Like many Chinese temples, Ong Temple is nestled within a lively residential neighborhood in the heart of Can Tho.

Ong Temple’s facade is adorned with Chinese characters. Source: Flickr

Ong Temple has remained unchanged since its construction. Its rectangular layout features interconnected buildings with a central skylight. This design, prominent in traditional Chinese architecture, provides natural light and ventilation. The temple’s yin-yang roof is topped with intricate sculptures of mythical creatures. These include dragons fighting for a pearl, soaring phoenixes, and fish transforming into dragons.

Cone-shaped incense sticks hang from the ceiling inside the main hall. Source: Flickr

Inside the main hall, visitors are captivated by ornate reliefs and walls adorned with carvings. Hundreds of cone-shaped incense sticks hang from the ceiling, filling the space with a soothing aroma and creating a serene atmosphere.

4. Explore Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda

Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda, also known as Vien Quang Pagoda, is a major religious site for the Khmer community in Can Tho. This popular religious site reflects the region’s rich cultural diversity, a harmonious mix of Kinh, Hoa, Khmer, and Cham ethnic groups. Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda is located over 1 km west of Ninh Kieu Wharf on Mac Dinh Chi Street, nestled in the middle of a busy residential area.

Constructed in 1948, the pagoda served the spiritual needs of the Khmer community in Can Tho. Initially a modest structure funded by local donations, the pagoda underwent a renovation in 2008 and reopened in 2012. Despite the renovation, the pagoda preserved its traditional Khmer architectural style. Since then, Pitu Khosa Rangsay has been considered one of the most magnificent pagodas in the Mekong Delta.

The intricate exterior of Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda. Source: Tripadvisor

Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda features intricate Khmer architecture. Its exterior is adorned with stylized patterns, some of which are the famous Angkor dragons. The eastward main hall consists of four floors, topped by a tapering tower. Inside, the pagoda is home to many Buddhist statues, creating a serene atmosphere that attracts both locals and visitors. Every detail of the structure is meticulously crafted. This showcases the exceptional artistry and aesthetic skills of the Khmer community back in the day.

Every detail of the pagoda is meticulously crafted. Source: Tripadvisor

Besides its religious significance, the pagoda also serves as a free residence for underprivileged Khmer students in Can Tho. This makes the pagoda not only a spiritual hub but also a symbol of community support and solidarity.

5. Check out Binh Thuy Ancient House

Binh Thuy Ancient House is a great destination in Can Tho for those interested in learning about history and architecture. Officially known as Duong Family Temple, the house is on Bui Huu Nghia Street along the Binh Thuy River.

Binh Thuy Ancient House is a prime example of Indochinese architectural style from the early 20th century. Constructed in 1870 and renovated in 1904, the house achieved its current form in 1911. It features a traditional five-room layout surrounded by a sturdy concrete and steel fence. The house’s exterior follows the Art Nouveau style, showcasing a blend of elegance and craftsmanship. Leading up to the main house are two graceful winding staircases arranged symmetrically on both sides.

Binh Thuy Ancient House has the Indochinese architectural style. Source: Flickr

Binh Thuy Ancient House not only has architectural significance but also cultural value. This house was supposedly used as a filming location for several scenes in The Lover (1992), a film by director Jean-Jacques Annaud. Its timeless charm allowed the film to capture the essence of Southwest Vietnam’s heritage. In 2009, Binh Thuy Ancient House was designated a National Architectural and Artistic Monument.

The interior of the house showcases many antiquated items. Source: Tripadvisor

Today, Binh Thuy Ancient House attracts visitors eager to explore its well-preserved architecture maintained by dedicated housekeepers. Here, visitors can step back in time and appreciate the house’s architecture and its associated history.

6. Visit Con Son Community Tourism Village

Visiting Con Son is a must-try thing to do in Can Tho if you want to immerse yourself in the rural lifestyle of the Mekong Delta. Only a short ferry ride from Co Bac Port on Alley 13, Le Hong Phong Street, Con Son is a hub of community-driven tourism. Guided tours, up to 600,000 VND per person for a half-day, allow visitors to look closer into local life.

One standout attraction in Con Son is its fish farms. Visitors can explore floating houses where freshwater fish, including rare species, are raised. On guided tours, visitors can learn the techniques to maintain these farms. The tour can also be a fun and interactive experience, as you can even feed the fish yourself.

The jumping snakehead fish show is a favorite attraction in Con Son.

The jumping snakehead fish show is another attraction in Con Son. Many fish farmers here train their fish for a long period of time to leap out of the water on cue. Imagine seeing hundreds of fish jumping out of the water with their mouth open, trying to eat your little treat. Have a sweet tooth? Don’t miss out on the hands-on experience of making traditional cakes. Guided by locals, visitors use wheat and rice flour to make delicious treats. Visitors can even enjoy their freshly made treats on the spot.

7. Visit Muoi Cuong Cocoa Farm

Muoi Cuong Cocoa Farm is one of the few cocoa farms in the area that incorporates traditional cocoa production with guided tourism. This cocoa facility opened in the 1960s. Today, the farm has a total area of ​​over 1.2 hectares with more than 2,000 cocoa trees. Here, besides sampling products made from cocoa, visitors can experience the production stages with the owner, who speaks English relatively well.

The entrance fee is 70,000 VND per person. This price makes it feel cheap as it includes cocoa tasting and learning about the production process.

To get to Muoi Cuong Cocoa Farm, you can follow DT923 or Nguyen Van Cu Street. Then, turn right from DT923 (left from Nguyen Van Cu) in My Khanh Commune into a local neighborhood. Keep driving until you reach a sign that says it’s the Muoi Cuong Cocoa Farm. Operating time is from 7 AM to 12 PM every day.

The cocoa is bitter and slightly sour with a sweet aftertaste. Source: Tripadvisor

Visitors are under no obligation to buy any product after the tour. But wouldn’t it be nice to bring home some gifts? The primary cocoa variety here is the Trinitario, originating from Trinidad. This cocoa has a bitter and mild sour taste with a slightly sweet aftertaste. What’s impressive is that all cocoa trees on the farm are grown organically. The production techniques are also traditional, using some very basic tools.

8. Find serenity at Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery

From Muoi Cuong Cocoa Farm, continuing on DT923 or Nguyen Van Cu Street, you’ll find Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery, only a few minutes away. This is the largest monastery in Can Tho and one of the largest in the Mekong Delta.

Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery started its construction in 2013 and was completed in 2014 on an area of ​​over 38,000 m2. The entire complex was built in the style of pure Vietnamese Buddhist architecture of the Tran Dynasty (12th century). This is distinct from Khmer pagodas, such as Pitu Khosa Rangsay mentioned earlier.

Tam Quan Gate is one of the impressive structures in the monastery.

Some impressive structures include the Tam Quan Gate (three-arched gate) topped with red tiles. Passing through the entrance, on the two sides of the main hall, you’ll see the drum and the bell pavilions. The bell itself weighs 1.5 tons. Inside the main hall, a 3.5-ton bronze statue of a sitting Buddha sits in the middle. Scattered around, statues of mythical figures are carved from ancient elm wood, aged up to 800 years.

Visitors to Truc Lam Phuong Nam Monastery often come to offer incense to Buddha and pray for peace for their families. As a prominent pilgrimage site for Buddhists countrywide, the monastery also hosts significant Buddhist events.

9. Explore Can Tho Night Market

Anyone coming to Can Tho simply can’t finish their trip without visiting Can Tho Market, another symbolic building of the city. Can Tho Market is located in the central quarter of the city, on the same street as Ninh Kieu Wharf. The market was built around 1915, at about the same time as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City. It was built on a huge area with a total area of ​​over 1,700 m2 along the Can Tho River.

Can Tho Market was designed following neoclassical architecture, blending Indochinese and French influences. It has a curved ceiling and a multi-level, red-tiled roof in the yin-yang style. Over time, the market was damaged, and in 2005, the city government repaired and restored it. Still, the structure maintains its old architecture. This place is now considered one of the most beautiful markets in the Mekong Delta.

Can Tho Market is a busy gathering spot in the evenings. Source: Tripadvisor

During the day, the area around Can Tho Market is bustling with trade activities conducted by local merchants. Similar to other markets in the area, Can Tho Market is a treasure trove for specialty spices and ingredients as well as handmade crafts. The scene gets even rowdier in the evenings when locals and travelers alike gather in front of the market to walk, eat street food, and socialize.

Here, visitors can sample some of the favorite dishes and desserts that are specialties in Can Tho. These include BBQ skewers, sweet soups, and mixed tropical fruits.

Useful travel tips in Can Tho City

To make sure your visit to Can Tho will be both enjoyable and hassle-free, follow these tips. These include how long you should stay, what special occasions to expect, and how you can pay for your expenses during the trip.

Recommended duration of stay

For a brief introduction to Can Tho, a weekend getaway is often enough to cover the must-see attractions. This includes a boat tour to the famous floating markets and visits to nearby tourist hotspots. However, for a more in-depth experience, consider staying for 3 to 4 days. A longer stay allows you to dive deeper into the local culture. This way, you can engage in traditional activities while learning more about the region’s way of life.

Local events and holidays

Can Tho is a lively destination for festivals all year round. The Can Tho Lantern Festival is held at Ninh Kieu Wharf around late November. This event is a visual treat, with colorful lights and lively performances. In April, the Can Tho Cake Festival takes place. It celebrates the region’s culinary heritage while allowing local bakers to connect.

The Ong Temple Festival is another merry event. It’s celebrated on the full moon day of each month, during Vu Lan, or on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month at Ong Temple. The Khmer community in Can Tho also has its own festivals. These events honor the agricultural deities and are celebrated with unique customs.

Money exchange and payment

Most hotels and restaurants in Can Tho accept both cash and bank transfers. Larger establishments may also accommodate credit cards. However, many smaller local businesses operate on a cash-only basis. To ensure a smooth journey, bring enough cash. ATMs are readily available in Can Tho’s city center. But it’s wise to withdraw cash before heading to remote destinations to cover emergencies.

What’s next?

After exploring Can Tho, and you feel like you haven’t had enough, continue your Mekong Delta adventure with nearby highlights. Head to Ben Tre, about 90 km away to the northeast. Known as the “Land of Coconut,” this place is where you can cruise tranquil canals, explore lush coconut groves, and enjoy tropical fruits.

Alternatively, travel to Chau Doc, 120 km away near the Cambodian border. Once in Chau Doc, you can visit Ba Chua Xu Temple, the floating villages, and Sam Mountain. Or, explore Soc Trang, 60 km southeast. Here, the Khmer pagodas like Doi Pagoda showcase the region’s heritage, especially during local festivals.

Each destination guarantees to elevate your Mekong Delta adventure.

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