Discover the magic and beauty of the Can Tho floating markets, including the Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets, on an unforgettable Mekong Delta tour. Book your Can Tho floating market tour today!
How was the floating market formed?
The floating markets originated from the living habits of the local people in the region. They meet the needs for distribution and consumption of goods among the local people when land transportation was still limited.
Scenery of Can Tho floating market
There are many ways to trade goods, but in the Mekong Delta region with its extensive waterways, people often use boats and ships to buy and sell with each other on the rivers. This is how the floating markets have formed. Floating markets typically gather at river junctions. These are places where the rivers are not too wide and too deep, making it convenient for boats anchoring.
Best time to visit the floating markets
The best time to visit the floating markets in Can Tho when discovering Vietnam is during the dry season, which lasts from November to April. During this period, the weather in the Mekong Delta is generally more pleasant, with cool temperatures and lower humidity.
Tourists can consider visiting the floating market in December and January. This is the time when people trade and buy things for the Tet holiday in Vietnam, so the market near Tet will be the busiest .
Floating Market – Mekong River
The Floating Market starts at 5 am, with the busiest time being from 7 am to 8 am, then gradually winding down after 9 am. Tourists usually visit during the 6 am to 8 am window to witness the sunrise and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the floating market, with hundreds of boats.
During this time, small boats will be offering various breakfast items, coffee, and fresh tropical fruits. Don’t miss the chance to witness the serene and picturesque sunrise on the river.
How to visit the floating market
From Saigon, you can choose to travel by motorbike, car, or bus to Can Tho, which takes 3-4 hours.
Once in the center of Can Tho city, you need to get to the Ninh Kieu Pier. From there, you can hire a small boat or boat to take you to the floating market.
Move to the floating market by small boat
There are two most popular forms of renting a boat here. One is to join another group on a large boat, the other is to rent a private one. However, you should choose to rent a private boat if your group is large, so as not to have many problems.
If you join another group, the price will be 1.6 USD per person (depending on the number of people on the boat). Private boats can carry 10 – 12 people with prices ranging from 20 – 32 USD. From Ninh Kieu Pier to Cai Rang floating market takes about 30-40 minutes by boat.
Famous Floating Market in Can Tho
Cai Rang Floating Market: The Heartbeat of Can Tho
Cai Rang floating market is the largest and most popular floating market in Can Tho. Located about 6 kilometers from the city center, this market is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the region.
The market is open from early morning around 5 am – 9 am, but the best time to visit is at dawn 5.30 am to 6.30 am, when the market is at its busiest.
Highlights of Cai Rang Floating Market
Visitors can take a boat tour and weave through the maze of vendors, haggling for the freshest fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. The air is filled with the cries of the merchants, the honking of boat horns, and the sizzling of food being prepared on the spot. It’s a sensory experience that immerses travelers in the rhythm and energy of this centuries-old tradition.
Diverse goods at Cai Rang floating market
One of the highlights of visiting Cai Rang is the opportunity to sample the local cuisine. From steaming bowls of pho to sweet tropical fruits and savory street snacks, the floating market offers a veritable feast for the senses. With only 1-2 USD, you can fill up your stomach with a hearty breakfast.
Beyond the culinary delights, Cai Rang Floating Market is also a hub of cultural exchange. Travelers can witness the intricate trading and bargaining rituals that have been passed down through generations.
Phong Dien Floating Market: A Quieter, More Authentic Experience
While the Cai Rang Floating Market may be the most well-known, the Phong Dien Floating Market offers a more intimate and less crowded experience for visitors. Located about 15 kilometers from the center of Can Tho, Phong Dien is a popular destination for those seeking a quieter and more authentic glimpse into the local way of life.
Phong Dien market is open from early morning to the afternoon, visitors should go to the market from 5 am to 7.30 am because this is the busiest time.
Highlights of Phong Dien Floating Market
Phong Dien is smaller in scale compared to its larger counterpart, but it is no less captivating. As you navigate the waterways, you’ll be greeted by a more relaxed pace, where vendors leisurely peddle their wares and engage in casual conversation with both locals and tourists.
One of the highlights of Phong Dien market is the opportunity to interact with the friendly locals. Take the time to chat with the vendors, learn about their daily lives, and practice your Vietnamese language skills.
Unique culinary experience on the boat
At Phong Dien, vendors sell a variety of goods, including fresh produce, tropical fruits, local delicacies, and handmade crafts, etc.You also find some boats serving typical foods for breakfast such as pho, hu tieu, porridge, coffee, etc. Enjoying a delicious breakfast while admiring the bustling atmosphere on this floating market in Can Tho is a must for visitors.
Tips for Visiting the Floating Markets
A visit to Can Tho’s floating markets is an unforgettable experience, offering a unique and authentic glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s rich cultural and agricultural landscape. To truly appreciate the enchantment of these markets, consider the following tips:
- Get there early: The markets are busiest in the early morning hours, so try to arrive before 7 am to beat the crowds.
- Try the local cuisine: From noodle soup to grilled fish, the floating markets offer a wide range of delicious local specialties.
- Bargaining: Prices are often negotiable, so don’t be afraid to bargain for the best deals.
- Cash on Hand: Ensure you have enough small bills and local currency on hand, as the vendors may not accept credit or debit cards.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking and potentially climbing in and out of boats.
- Choose your mode of transportation: While you can explore the markets on your own by boat, consider hiring Mekong Delta tours to provide valuable insights and a more personalized experience.
- Respect Local Customs: Be respectful of the local community and their way of life, and always follow the guidelines and recommendations of your tour guide or boat operator.
The floating markets of Can Tho are a truly captivating and unforgettable experience that showcase the rich cultural heritage and vibrant way of life of the Mekong Delta region.
Whether you visit the bustling Cai Rang market or the more intimate Phong Dien market, you’ll be immersed in a world of color, sounds, and flavors that will leave a lasting impression. So, embark on a journey to the floating markets of Can Tho and unlock the enchanting secrets of this remarkable corner of Vietnam.
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