TRAVEL GUIDE TO CAN THO: EXPLORE ALL THE TOP ATTRACTIONS

Welcome to Can Tho, the beating heart of the Mekong Delta and a destination that promises a blend of cultural charm, stunning landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Can Tho is a must-visit for anyone looking to explore the authentic soul of southern Vietnam. I will introduce you to the travel guide to Can Tho as well as the top destinations in this city.

Can Tho

1. Where is Can Tho?

Can Tho, often called the “Western Capital” of Vietnam, is located in the Mekong Delta region, approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City.

It is the largest city in the Delta, known for its vibrant cultural scene and agricultural richness. Surrounded by an intricate network of rivers and canals, Can Tho is the perfect gateway to experience the life and traditions of the Delta.

Can Tho is one of the top destinations that you must visit.

2. How to get there?

Here are several options depending on your starting point and travel to Can Tho:

– By Bus: From Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a bus or drive. The journey typically takes 3-4 hours via the National Highway 1A. Several reputable bus companies, like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus Lines), offer comfortable rides with regular departures.

– By Air: Can Tho International Airport connects the city to Hanoi, Da Nang, and Phu Quoc. For international travelers, connecting flights from Ho Chi Minh City make it easy to reach.

The ticket flight is from 2.000.000 VND to 3.000.000 VND/person (80 to 120 USD).

3. The best time to travel Can Tho

Can Tho is less affected by storms and enjoys pleasant weather year-round, despite having distinct rainy and dry seasons.

The ideal time to travel to Can Tho is during the summer, from May to August, when the fruit orchards are in harvest season.

From September to November is the floating water season, perfect for visitors to experience the rustic lifestyle of the Western region and savor specialties that are unique to the flood season. From December to February, leading up to the Lunar New Year, Can Tho is adorned with vibrant flower blossoms.

4. Top attractions to visit in Can Tho

4.1. Cai Rang Floating Market

Floating markets are a hallmark of the Mekong Delta. If you visit Can Tho without experiencing the Cai Rang Floating Market, it would truly be a major oversight. The market typically operates from dawn, so you’ll need to wake up early to fully enjoy its lively atmosphere. The best time to visit the floating market is between 5 AM and 7 AM.

Over hundreds of years, the locals have maintained the habit of trading goods on boats. Over time, the floating market has become a fascinating form of tourism in the Mekong region. Visitors can go to the pier, buy tickets, and board a boat to explore one of Can Tho’s most famous attractions. For larger groups, you can rent an entire boat for about 350.000–400.000 VND (14 to 16 USD). Solo travelers can purchase individual tickets for around 30.000 VND per person (1.2 USD).

If you visit during the busy hours, you’ll witness the bustling trade on boats. Most goods are fruits and specialties of the Mekong Delta. A unique feature of the floating market is that you won’t hear the usual shouting, bargaining, or haggling common in land markets. Instead, sellers hang their goods on tall poles to showcase what they have for sale—bananas, pineapples, pomelos, mangoes, and even vegetables. Larger boats often sell wholesale, while smaller ones cater to individual customers.

Apart from fruits and vegetables, smaller boats also sell breakfast, drinks, and snacks for both locals and tourists. Enjoying a steaming bowl of noodle soup or crab vermicelli while floating on a boat amidst the bustling market is an unforgettable experience.

By around 9 AM, the market begins to wind down. At this point, visitors can return to the mainland and continue exploring other attractions in Can Tho.

Address: Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.

4.2. Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary

Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, 50 km from Can Tho’s center, is an eco-tourism destination best visited from August to January during the stork breeding season.

Visitors can explore the sanctuary on foot or by rented bikes, enjoying scenic bamboo-lined paths.

Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary

A spiral observation tower offers stunning views of the sanctuary, particularly at dusk, when thousands of storks return to their nests, creating a spectacular scene.

Address: Thuan An, Can Tho.

Opening Hours: 5:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily.

4.3. Binh Thuy Ancient House

Binh Thuy Ancient House, located near the Binh Thuy canal and accessible via Bui Huu Nghia Street, is a prime example of the harmonious fusion of French and Vietnamese architecture. Built in the late 19th century, it showcases the cultural richness of the Mekong Delta’s elite. Famous for being featured in iconic Vietnamese films such as Những nẻo đường phù sa, Người đẹp Tây Đô, Nợ đời, and Người tình.

Binh Thuy Ancient House

Drawing visitors curious about its historical elegance.

Entrance fee: 15.000 VND.

Address: No. 144, Bui Huu Nghia Street, Can Tho.

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:30 PM to 5:30 PM daily.

4.4. My Khanh Tourist Village

Located about 10 kilometers from the heart of Can Tho City, the My Khanh Tourist Village covers an expansive area of over 50,000 square meters. This destination blends relaxation, entertainment, cuisine, and eco-tourism to highlight the unique riverine culture of Southern Vietnam.

Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including: Strolling through vibrant fruit gardens, touring historic traditional houses, fishing or paddling along serene canals, and participating in fun folk games.

The village also hosts cultural performances, such as the traditional Southern Vietnamese art of Don Ca Tai Tu, alongside other immersive local experiences. These activities offer a deeper appreciation of the Southern way of life and its cultural heritage.

With its lush greenery, refreshing atmosphere, and diverse attractions, My Khanh Tourist Village is the perfect spot for those looking to immerse themselves in the rich culture and natural beauty of the Mekong Delta.

Address: No. 335, My Nhon, Phong Dien District.

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM daily.

4.5. Ninh Kieu Wharf

Ninh Kieu Wharf, located in Can Tho’s city center, is a vibrant evening destination featuring a riverside park, stunning views of the Can Tho Bridge, and romantic cruises showcasing the illuminated scenery.

Nearby, the Love Bridge offers a romantic experience with LED-lit decor and stylized lotus flower designs, especially popular during festivals and firework displays.

On special occasions like National Day (September 2nd) or Lunar New Year, crowds gather here to watch fireworks displays.

Just steps away, the Tay Do Night Market provides a clean, organized space for shopping, dining, and entertainment, making it a must-visit for visitors to Can Tho.

Address: No. 106, Hai Ba Trung Street, Can Tho.

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours.

4.6. Can Tho Museum

Can Tho Museum, located in the heart of Can Tho City, serves as a hub for exploring the rich history and culture of the Mekong Delta. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the traditions and lifestyles of the Kinh, Khmer, Hoa, and Cham communities.

Showcases a wide range of artifacts highlighting the region’s historical and cultural development. Dedicated sections focus on traditional farming, fishing, and craft techniques. Displays detailing the revolutionary history of Can Tho.

The museum’s architecture seamlessly integrates modern and traditional styles, creating a visually appealing space.

Can Tho Museum

Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits that vividly illustrate local customs and daily life. A visit to the Can Tho Museum is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the cultural essence and historical depth of the Mekong Delta.

Address: No.1, Dai Lo Hoa Binh Street, Ninh Kieu District.

Opening Hours: From 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM (Tuesday to Thursday). 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM (Saturday and Sunday, Holiday).
Entrance Fee: Free

4.7. Con Son

Con Son is a community-based tourism village where each household offers unique experiences for visitors. Residents maintain the traditional Southern Vietnamese culture, addressing each other with endearing names like “Uncle Ba” or “Auntie Be Bay.”

Fish cages are one of the attractions at Con Son’s entrance. The first fish cages here were built nearly 20 years ago. To reach them, visitors take a boat or ferry from Co Bac Wharf. The cages house freshwater specialty fish such as Hồng Thủy (Red Drum), Chạch Lấu (Snakehead Fish), Cá Hô (Giant Barb), Cá Lăng (Catfish), and exotic species like Hồng Vỹ Mỏ Vịt (Red-tailed Catfish) and Koi.

Another unique experience is watching “flying fish”. Young snakehead fish are trained to jump out of the water for food. Only fish under 5-6 months old participate, and older fish are released into the river.

Visitors also enjoy hands-on activities like making traditional cakes. With guidance from locals, you can create treats like Bánh lá mít (jackfruit leaf cakes) and Bánh phu thê (husband-and-wife cakes).

Con Son Islet, accessible by ferry (5,000 VND/trip), is a community tourism destination in Can Tho, offering authentic Southern Vietnamese culture and warm hospitality. Attractions include:

-Fish cages: View and feed various freshwater and exotic fish species about 10.000 VND (0.4 USD).

-Flying fish show: Watch trained snakehead fish leap from the water about 25.000 VND (1 USD).

-Cake-making workshops: Learn to make traditional Vietnamese cakes, with a platter costing 210.000 VND (10 USD).

Half-day to full-day tours cost 300.000–600.000 VND (12 to 24 USD), making Con Son a unique and immersive cultural experience.

Address: Bui Huu Nghia Street, Can Tho.
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day.