CAN THO

The Vibrant Heart of the Mekong Delta

CAN THO Travel Guide

Nestled in the vibrant Mekong Delta, Can Tho is a bustling riverside city renowned for its floating markets, lush canals, and rich cultural heritage. Luxury travelers can experience the region in style, cruising along tranquil waterways aboard private boats to witness the daily life of local communities, explore verdant orchards, and visit traditional villages. Can Tho is also home to elegant riverside resorts and boutique hotels, offering comfort and refinement amid the tropical scenery. From the famous Cai Rang floating market at sunrise to serene riverbank dining and immersive cultural experiences, Can Tho provides a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Mekong Delta charm.

In Can Tho, life flows with the river—floating markets, lush canals, and timeless traditions come together in a vibrant tapestry of the Mekong Delta.”

A BRIEF HISTORY OF CAN THO

Can Tho, the largest city in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, has long been a vital hub for trade, agriculture, and culture. Its strategic location along the Hau River, a branch of the Mekong, made it an important center for rice production and river commerce during the Nguyen Dynasty. Over centuries, Can Tho developed into a bustling riverside city where floating markets, traditional villages, and ethnic communities thrived. The city also played a significant role during Vietnam’s modern history, serving as a regional center during the French colonial period and later in the Mekong Delta’s development. Today, Can Tho seamlessly blends its rich cultural heritage with modern amenities, offering luxury travelers an authentic yet comfortable Mekong Delta experience.

CAN THO HIGHLIGHTS

Cai Rang Floating Market

Witness the lively trade of fruits, vegetables, and local goods from boats at sunrise.

Ninh Kieu Wharf

Stroll along the scenic riverfront with restaurants, cafes, and panoramic views of the Hau River.

Binh Thuy Ancient House

Explore a beautifully preserved French colonial-era mansion showcasing local architecture.

Can Tho Museum

Learn about the region’s history, culture, and the Mekong Delta’s unique ecosystem.

Private River Cruises

Enjoy serene boat rides through canals, floating villages, and fruit orchards.

Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary

Spot thousands of storks and migratory birds in a peaceful natural reserve.

Local Culinary Experiences

Savor fresh Mekong Delta specialties, including river fish, tropical fruits, and traditional desserts.

HOW TO GET THERE?

Can Tho is approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City and is easily reached by private car, luxury van, or domestic flight to Can Tho International Airport. A private transfer offers comfort and flexibility, allowing travelers to enjoy the scenic Mekong Delta countryside along the way. Alternatively, first-class buses or guided tours provide a more immersive experience of local villages and riverside landscapes during the journey.

HOW TO GET AROUND

Exploring Can Tho is best done at a relaxed pace to fully enjoy its waterways and cultural attractions. Private boat tours provide an intimate way to navigate the canals, visit floating markets, and explore fruit orchards along the Mekong River. For on-land exploration, private cars, chauffeured vehicles, or bicycles allow access to temples, museums, and local villages. Luxury travelers can also combine guided walking tours and curated culinary experiences for a comprehensive and refined experience of Can Tho.

Interested in festivals?  read more about festivals in Can Tho and around Vietnam.

Aerial view of a vibrant floating market in the Mekong Delta, Can Tho, Vietnam. The river is bustling with numerous boats selling goods, surrounded by the city's waterfront buildings at sunset. Perfect for luxury travel, MICE, and DMC services.
An overhead view of several colorful wooden boats at a floating market in Can Tho, Mekong Delta, Vietnam. The boats are laden with fresh fruits and local goods, with people on board, highlighting a unique and vibrant cultural experience.
A close-up portrait of a cheerful Vietnamese woman wearing a traditional conical hat, or 'non la,' and smiling warmly. The image captures the genuine hospitality and local culture of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho, ideal for promoting authentic travel experiences.
A close-up shot of a plate of a traditional Vietnamese dish, likely braised duck, garnished with sesame seeds. The dish features dark, rich cuts of meat and sausage-like pieces. This image highlights the authentic culinary experiences available in Can Tho, appealing to luxury travel and foodie tours.
A breathtaking sunset view of the Can Tho Bridge spanning the vast Mekong River. The golden sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow on the water and silhouetting the modern suspension bridge and distant cityscape. Ideal for promoting luxury travel, MICE, and DMC experiences.
Balut is a fertilized duck embryo that is boiled and eaten from the shell.
A bustling scene at the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho, Vietnam. A person in a traditional conical hat paddles a small boat past larger merchant boats filled with goods, capturing the vibrant daily life on the Mekong River.

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