Can Tho, Vietnam: the heart of the Mekong Delta

Where is Can Tho in Vietnam?

Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho lies approximately 170 km south of Ho Chi Minh City. Recognized as the most advanced development hub in the region, the city is often referred to as the capital of the Mekong Delta. With its airport offering direct flights from cities like Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, in just 2 hours and 15 minutes, and Da Nang, the capital of the Central region, in only 1 hour and 20 minutes, Can Tho ensures convenient access.

Despite its dynamic growth, the city has managed to preserve the picturesque tranquility of its winding rivers, lush gardens, and warm atmosphere. A delightful stroll along the Hau River, a branch of the Mekong, provides a romantic and soothing setting, perfect for relaxation.

When to visit Can Tho in Vietnam?

Can Tho enjoys a tropical climate, providing mild and pleasant weather throughout the year, with an average temperature of around 28°C. The city has two distinct seasons: the dry season from December to April and the rainy season from May to November.

The optimal time to visit Can Tho is during the dry season, although the summer months can be particularly hot. June, July, and August, marked by the fruit season, allow visitors to taste the ripest fruits of the region.

These months also offer opportunities to participate in captivating festivals, such as the Cholchonam Thomay festival in March, celebrating the Khmer New Year, and the Okombook offering festival in October, providing insights into the traditions and spirituality of the Khmer community.

How to get to Can Tho in Vietnam?

Can Tho, the heart of Mekong Delta in Vietnam

From Ho Chi Minh City:

• By Private Car: For those departing from Ho Chi Minh City, the journey takes you through National Highway 1A, crossing the provinces of Long An and Tien Giang. Passing through the My Thuan Bridge to Vinh Long province and covering about 30 km to the city bridge, travelers can reach the city center. A convenient option is to request a car rental in Vietnam, offering comprehensive packages including round-trip transportation.
• By Local Bus: Several bus companies connect Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho. Travelers can go to the “Mien Tay” bus station to purchase tickets or contact specialized companies such as Phuong Trang and Thanh Buoi, which provide trips between the two cities.

From Hanoi, Da Nang:

For those departing from Hanoi or Da Nang, the optimal mode of transportation is by flight. Airlines like Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways offer direct flights to Can Tho International Airport, located 10 km from the city center. You can purchase a flight ticket to Vietnam through airlines or travel agencies.

What to do and see in Can Tho, Vietnam?

Relax on a Mekong Delta cruise from Can Tho

Exploring the Mekong Delta can take various forms, but nothing beats a cruise for combining leisure, culture, and landscapes. A cruise from Can Tho takes visitors to the heart of the Mekong, making stops at fascinating attractions such as the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, the Cai Rang Floating Market, and Son Island.

For a more convenient option, dinner aboard the cruise ship offers a magnificent view of the Ninh Kieu Port, allowing tourists to savor delicious local dishes while listening to the traditional music of the region, known as “đờn ca tài tử.” Recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, this art form provides a unique cultural experience. The best time for a cruise is during the dry season, ideal for exploring the beautiful landscapes of the Mekong Delta in April or December.

Visit the ancient Binh Thuy house

Binh Thuy’s ancient house, over 100 years old, is a living testament to the history and architecture of Can Tho. Located just 700 meters from the site, the Binh Thuy Temple is also a point of interest, embodying the local passion for art and culture.

The architecture of the house combines Western and Eastern elements, creating a unique and charming atmosphere. A visit to this building offers a dive into the past, revealing the aristocratic lifestyle of that era.

Explore the religious mosaic in Can Tho

Can Tho houses a fascinating cultural diversity, evidenced by its Chinese temples and Khmer pagodas. Among the must-visit sites are the Ông Temple, built in the 19th century, and the Munir Ansay Pagoda, representing the local Muslim community.

These religious sites provide immersion into the spiritual and cultural richness of the city, reflecting harmony between different religious communities.

Immerse yourself in the local life of Can Tho’s floating markets

Discover floating markets in Can Tho in the morning.

Can Tho’s floating markets offer one of the most authentic experiences in the Vietnam region. The Cai Rang Floating Market, though less lively than in the past, retains all its charm. Visitors can also opt for a more immersive experience by heading to the Phong Dien market, less frequented by tourists but offering preserved authenticity.

A boat ride along the floating markets allows travelers to discover the daily life of the locals, admire local products, and interact with floating sellers. It’s a unique opportunity to explore the vibrant culture of the Mekong Delta.

Read more : The Exciting Floating Markets of Mekong Rivers, Vietnam

Discover the traditional noodle making in Can Tho

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned worldwide, and Can Tho is no exception. Vietnamese noodles, especially “hủ tiếu,” are a local specialty not to be missed. Visitors can visit noodle-making workshops to uncover the secrets of their creation, adding a personal touch to their culinary experience.

Exploring these workshops offers a unique opportunity to understand the traditional noodle-making process, highlighting the dedication and skill of local artisans.

Our customer, Ms. Katherine, experienced noodle making

Visit the Ba Lang fruit orchard

Fruit orchards abound in the Can Tho region, and the Ba Lang Fruit Orchard is one of the most popular. This site offers an impressive variety of tropical fruits, such as durian, rambutan, mango, and more. Visitors can stroll through the orchard, appreciating the diversity of nature and even participate in fruit picking for a more interactive experience.

Tasting fresh fruits directly from the orchard is an unforgettable experience, allowing visitors to savor the freshness and authentic flavor of local products.

Enjoy local cuisine in Can Tho

The cuisine of Can Tho is a delicious fusion of traditional Vietnamese flavors and regional specialties. Noteworthy dishes include Banh Xeo, a crispy rice crepe filled with tasty toppings, the “lẩu mắm” fondue, a local delicacy made from fermented fish, and “Banh Cong,” a crispy and tasty snack. Local markets, street restaurants, and gourmet establishments offer a variety of choices to satisfy the taste buds of even the most discerning visitors.

Take a bike ride in Can Tho

Can Tho is perfect for exploring by bike, providing a unique experience to discover the city and its surroundings. Visitors can pedal through green rice fields, lush fruit gardens, and the Ninh Kieu Quay along the Hau River. A bike ride not only offers an eco-friendly way to explore the region but also an opportunity to immerse oneself in the daily life of the locals. Travelers can enjoy the freshness of the river breeze and admire the sparkling night view of the city from Ninh Kieu Quay.

In planning your tour to Vietnam, especially Can Tho, these diverse activities guarantee you a memorable experience in the heart of the Mekong Delta. Enjoy the cultural richness, delicious cuisine, and picturesque landscapes of this charming Vietnamese city.

Whether you are passionate about history, nature, cuisine, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Can Tho will satisfy all your discovery desires. Creating unique memories through these experiences, you will leave with the feeling of having truly explored and understood the diversity of this exceptional region.