Can Tho

The Heart of the Mekong Delta

The optimal time to visit Can Tho (Cần Thơ) is also during the dry months from December to April, when lower humidity and cooler temperatures make exploring the city and surrounding waterways more comfortable.

Best Time to Visit

the optimal time to visit Cần Thơ is also during the dry months from December to April, when lower humidity and cooler temperatures make exploring the city and surrounding waterways more comfortable.

Top Attractions

• Cai Rang Floating Market (Chợ Nổi Cái Răng): The largest floating market in the Mekong Delta, where you can observe the bustling trade of goods and produce early in the morning.
• Binh Thuy Ancient House (Nhà cổ Bình Thủy): A well-preserved 19th-century house showcasing French colonial and Vietnamese architecture and artifacts.
• Ninh Kieu Wharf (Bến Ninh Kiều): A popular spot along the riverfront in Cần Thơ, perfect for evening strolls and enjoying local street food.
• Ong Temple (Chùa Ông): A colorful Chinese temple located in the heart of Cần Thơ, reflecting the cultural diversity of the city.
• Khuong Island (Cồn Khương): A picturesque island in Cần Thơ, known for its lush orchards, traditional Vietnamese rural life, and the vibrant Cái Răng floating market nearby.

Getting Around

Navigating Cần Thơ (Di chuyển quanh Cần Thơ) is effectively done by taxi, motorbike, or bicycle. For a unique perspective of the city and delta, boat tours are readily available and offer an authentic way to experience local life along the riverbanks.

Discover the Beauty Surrounding Cần Thơ with Short Getaway Tours

From Cần Thơ: 1-Day, 2-Day, and 3-Day Tour Options

Cần Thơ, often referred to as the “Capital of the Mekong Delta,” is the perfect base for exploring the depth and diversity of the southern riverine life of Vietnam.

• Floating Markets Tour: A must-do 1-day trip from Cần Thơ is visiting its famous floating markets. Start early in the morning with a boat trip to the Cai Rang or Phong Dien floating markets, where you can observe local trading activities and enjoy fresh river produce. This tour can also include a visit to noodle factories and local gardens.
• Binh Thuy Ancient House: Spend half a day exploring the Binh Thuy Ancient House, which showcases French colonial and Vietnamese architecture. This historical house also displays antiques and artifacts, offering a glimpse into the lifestyle of wealthy landowners in the Mekong Delta.
• Mekong Delta Exploration: A comprehensive 2-day tour can delve deeper into the Mekong Delta. Visit multiple districts, each with unique characteristics. Experience rural life by engaging in activities such as cycling through village paths, fishing, and learning to cook local dishes in a homestay setting.
• Tra Su Cajuput Forest: For nature lovers, a full-day or 2-day trip to the Tra Su Cajuput Forest is ideal. This serene sanctuary features a vast green canopy of cajuput trees, home to diverse bird species. Enjoy a quiet boat ride through the forest and learn about the area’s biodiversity.

From Cần Thơ: 3-Day Tour Extensions

To truly experience the breadth of the Delta’s lifestyle and scenery, a 3-day tour can include visits to lesser-known locales such as Soc Trang and Bac Lieu. These areas are famous for their Khmer temples, bat pagodas, and unique cultural heritage. Additionally, extend your tour to include Chau Doc near the Cambodian border, where you can visit the Tra Su Forest, explore local fish farms, and understand the cross-cultural influences in the region.

Tips for Booking Tours from Cần Thơ

• Early Starts: Many tours, especially those to the floating markets, start early in the morning to catch the most active trading times.
• Local Guides: Employing a local guide can enhance your experience significantly. They provide insights into the cultural nuances and historical contexts that enrich your understanding of the Delta.
• Weather Preparedness: The Mekong Delta can be hot and humid. Dress comfortably, wear sunscreen, and carry water.
• Cultural Respect: Engaging with local communities often involves visiting homes and small-scale businesses. Showing respect and curiosity about local customs and practices is appreciated and often reciprocated with genuine hospitality.

These tours from Cần Thơ offer a rich tapestry of experiences that showcase the dynamic and vibrant life of the Mekong Delta. Whether you’re interested in the bustling activity of the floating markets or the serene natural beauty of the Delta’s ecosystems, Cần Thơ is an excellent starting point for exploration.

Travel Tips

• Accommodation: Options range from modern hotels in the city center to charming riverside resorts that cater to all preferences and budgets.
• Dining: The food in Cần Thơ is a highlight, with opportunities to sample fresh delta produce and specialties like ‘lẩu cá linh’ (hotpot with local fish) and ‘bánh tét lá cẩm’ (a colorful traditional cake).
• Respecting Local Culture: Engaging with locals in a respectful and open manner will enrich your experience, and taking part in community activities can provide deeper insights into the delta’s way of life.