Why Visit Can Tho: The Heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta

Nestled in the lush Mekong Delta, Can Tho is a vibrant city renowned for its unique floating markets, picturesque waterways and warm hospitality.

This dynamic destination offers a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty that captures the heart of every traveler. Far from the frenetic energy of urban centers, here you’ll find yourself immersed in a landscape of winding canals, bountiful orchards, and communities that have thrived on the delta’s generosity for centuries. Imagine gliding through misty waterways at dawn, the air filled with the calls of vendors and the scent of fresh tropical fruits.

If you’re a culture enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking tranquility, Can Tho promises experiences that linger in your memory. Join us to discover why visit Can Tho during your Vietnam tours.

Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta in Vietnam.

Iconic floating markets

Can Tho floating markets are the highlight of the Mekong Delta experience. That is why visit Can Tho is a must for travelers seeking unique cultural immersion. The Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most famous, buzzes with life as merchants sell fresh produce, flowers and local delicacies straight from their boats. Watching the sunrise over the market, with boats swaying gently and vendors calling out their goods, is a magical experience that offers a glimpse into the region’s vibrant trade culture. Visitors can savor a hot bowl of noodle soup or sip on freshly brewed coffee served from floating stalls.

Scenery of Cai Rang floating market.

In contrast, the Phong Dien Floating Market, located a bit further, is smaller and more tranquil, providing a more intimate encounter with the locals and their daily routines. Here, the pace is slower, allowing for meaningful interactions. You may chat with a fruit seller about their harvest or learn how to identify the freshest catches from the river. These markets aren’t just commercial hubs; they represent a way of life adapted to the delta’s watery environment, where boats serve as homes, shops, and transport.

Including a visit to these markets in your South Vietnam tours not only enriches your understanding of local commerce but also supports sustainable tourism by engaging directly with the community. Paradise Travel’s guided tours ensure you experience these markets at their most vibrant hours, with knowledgeable locals sharing stories that bring the scenes to life.

Serene waterways and canals

The intricate network of rivers and canals in Can Tho provides an exceptional opportunity for tranquil boat rides. These rides showcase the area’s vibrant greenery, traditional stilt houses, and the peacefulness of rural life. Mekong river cruises through these serene waterways allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the stunning natural beauty, from the striking water hyacinths to locals expertly fishing with traditional nets. As you navigate these waterways, you will encounter orchards laden with tropical fruits and children joyfully playing along the banks, offering a glimpse into a life that remains untouched by urbanization. This calm and picturesque setting makes boat rides not just an escape from urban chaos, but an essential way to reconnect with nature.

Rich cultural heritage

Can Tho’s temples, pagodas, and traditional village life reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. One must-visit landmark is the Binh Thuy Ancient House, which beautifully showcases French colonial architecture. This house features intricate woodwork, antique furnishings, and lush gardens that transport visitors back to the early 20th century in Vietnam.

Another highlight is Ong Pagoda, famous for its intricate designs and vibrant colors typical of Chinese architecture. This architectural and spiritual gem has been located at Ninh Kieu Wharf for 100 years without any change. Tourists visit this place to pray for peace, fortune and success.

Exploring local villages also introduces visitors to age-old crafts, such as mat weaving from water hyacinths and rice noodle making. You can directly participate in experiencing these producing stages, perhaps rolling dough for noodles or trying your hand at weaving. These hands-on activities provide a deeper understanding of the traditions and the lives of the people in the Mekong Delta.

Our customer, Ms. Katherine, experienced noodle-making.

Friendly and hospitable locals

Another compelling reason why visit Can Tho is the extraordinary friendliness, generosity, and hospitality of its residents. Stories of neighborly love abound, from strangers offering directions with genuine smiles to families inviting visitors into their homes for a shared meal. This welcoming atmosphere creates a sense of belonging that keeps tourists returning, adding a personal and heartwarming dimension to the travel experience. Interactions with locals—whether through casual chats at markets, learning traditional fishing techniques, or joining community events—reveal the delta’s communal spirit and leave an indelible impression. Can Tho’s people remind us of the joy in simple connections, enhancing your journey with authentic human stories.

Rustic and authentic local cuisine

Can Tho’s cuisine embodies simplicity and rustic charm, yet delivers unforgettable flavors that showcase the region’s farm-to-table ethos. Fresh ingredients are all from the rivers and farms. Plump river prawns, aromatic herbs, and tropical fruits form the basis of dishes that tell stories of the land and its people. Signature offerings include hu tieu, silky rice noodles often enjoyed in villages where you can witness the entire production process, from dough-making to noodle-cutting. Lau ca linh, a tangy hotpot featuring fresh river fish and local vegetables, is perfect for communal dining, while banh tam bi, rice vermicelli with pork skin, shredded meat, coconut milk, and fresh herbs provides a creamy, savory delight.

For an interactive experience, join a cooking class or fruit garden tour to learn Mekong secrets, harvesting ingredients and preparing meals under local guidance. These experiences not only enrich your taste but also deepen your connection to the delta’s culinary heritage.

A Fruit Garden Tour is a unique experience only found in the Mekong Delta.

Travel tips for visiting Can Tho

Best time to visit Can Tho

The best time to visit Can Tho is during the dry season, from December to April, when clear skies and moderate temperatures around 25-30°C make outdoor activities and boat tours more enjoyable. This period is ideal for exploring markets and waterways without the hindrance of rain.

The rainy season, from May to November, features lush greenery and higher water levels that create a picturesque environment, though afternoon showers may occur. For a truly immersive experience, plan your visit to coincide with Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) in January or February, or other local festivals like the Ok Om Bok in November, to witness vibrant celebrations, dragon boat races, and cultural performances that bring the city alive.

How to get to Can Tho

Can Tho is accessible from Ho Chi Minh City (about 170 km away) via buses or private  car transfers, taking 3-4 hours along scenic routes. Flights to Can Tho International Airport (VCA) from Hanoi or Da Nang offer quicker options. Once there, rent a motorbike for flexible exploration, or take on boats / bicycles tours for eco-friendly navigation of the canals.

Must-visit destinations in Can Tho

• Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets: These markets are best visited early in the morning when the activities are at their peak. The sights, sounds, and aromas create an engaging sensory.
• Binh Thuy Ancient House: A beautifully preserved colonial-era home that reflects Can Tho’s historical charm and architectural sophistication.
• Ong Pagoda: A colorful temple dedicated to Chinese deities, offering spiritual insight and architectural beauty. The temple’s intricate carvings and incense-filled halls make it a serene spot for contemplation.
• Ninh Kieu Wharf: A bustling riverside promenade perfect for evening strolls. The wharf comes alive at night with street vendors, live music, and colorful lights reflecting on the river.
• Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary: A haven for birdwatching and experiencing the region’s biodiversity. Thousands of storks and other birds return here each evening, creating a spectacular natural show.
• My Khanh Tourist Village: Experience fruit gardens, folk games, and traditional music for family-friendly fun.

Binh Thuy Ancient House

Must try dishes in Can Tho

Can Tho’s culinary scene is a highlight of any visit. Don’t miss the opportunity to sample these local favorites:

• Hu tieu: It is recommended to try in villages where you can witness and experience the process of making hu tieu (rice noodles), from making the dough, spreading the rice paper to cutting the noodles.
• Lau ca linh: A Mekong-style hotpot featuring fresh river fish, tangy broth, and a variety of local vegetables, perfect for sharing with friends or family.
• Banh tam bi: Made from rice vermicelli, pork skin and shredded lean meat, drizzled with coconut milk and fish sauce and served with bean sprouts, vegetables and fried onions.
• Ca loc nuong: Grilled snakehead fish wrapped in banana leaves, smoky and flavorful.
• Banh cong: Crispy mung bean cakes filled with shrimp, a crunchy street snack.

Banh tam bi – A typical breakfast dish in the Mekong Delta

Plan your adventure in Can Tho with Paradise Travel

Floating markets, peaceful waters, and rich culture provide the ultimate answer to why visit Can Tho for anyone exploring southern Vietnam. With its unique attractions, serene boat rides, and delectable cuisine, Can Tho promises an unforgettable journey that rejuvenates the spirit. This vibrant city invites you to immerse yourself in its charm and discover the heartbeat of the Mekong Delta. Travel to Vietnam with Paradise Travel, and let us curate a seamless adventure blending Can Tho’s rustic vibe with the vibrant atmosphere of Southern Vietnam. Your delta discovery awaits.