- 1. Where is Can Tho on the Vietnam map?
- 2. The top places to visit in Can Tho, Vietnam
- 2.1. Ninh Kieu Wharf
- 2.2. Cai Rang Floating Market
- 2.3. Binh Thuy Ancient House
- 2.4. Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary
- 2.5. My Khanh Tourist Village
- 2.6. Con Son Community Tourist Village
- 2.7. Munir Ansay Temple
- 2.8. Canton Assembly Hall of Can Tho (Ong Pagoda)
- 2.9. Truc Lam Zen Monastery
- 2.10. Fruit orchards in Can Tho
- 2.11. Tan Loc Islet
- 3. The best foods to try in Can Tho, Vietnam
- 4. Prominent tours for visitors to Can Tho, Vietnam
- 5. Guide for first-time visitors to Can Tho, Vietnam
1. Where is Can Tho on the Vietnam map?
Can Tho, located in the heart of the Mekong Delta, is a vital gateway for road, river, sea, and air transport in Southern Vietnam. Situated 169 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho Vietnam is easily accessible to other provinces in the region. It borders An Giang to the north, Dong Thap and Vinh Long to the east, Kien Giang to the west, and Hau Giang to the south.
Known for its intricate system of rivers and canals, Can Tho in Vietnam draws visitors seeking natural beauty and a serene atmosphere. Highlights include exploring floating markets, enjoying boat tours through the lush waterways, and staying in riverside homestays for a closer connection to the local lifestyle.
Can Tho Vietnam boasts lush landscapes (Source: Collected)
Beyond its natural appeal, Can Tho Vietnam is steeped in cultural significance with the lake complex of Bay Ho, Can Tho Bridge, and numerous temples. Besides culture, visitors can also enjoy the city’s modern developments, which is evident in the upgraded Can Tho Vietnam Airport. The city’s culinary scene is equally impressive, with specialties like grilled snakehead fish and lau mam. With friendly locals always eager to share their stories, Can Tho Vietnam offers a warm and enriching experience for every tourist in the Mekong Delta.
Check out the weather in the Mekong Delta to plan ahead!
2. The top places to visit in Can Tho, Vietnam
2.1. Ninh Kieu Wharf
Ninh Kieu Wharf, one of the most famous Can Tho Vietnam attractions, is located at the junction of the Hau River and the Can Tho River. Spanning over 7,000 square meters, it features a park with many walking paths. Ninh Kieu Pedestrian Bridge offers stunning views of the river, while the Statue of Uncle Ho adds a sense of historical charm.
From Ninh Kieu Wharf, visitors can take boat tours to Cai Rang Floating Market or explore the nearby Can Tho Old Market. Nearby, Ong Pagoda and Ninh Kieu Night Market offer cultural experiences and street food respectively. Riverside dining at the wharf is a highlight of Can Tho Vietnam nightlife, making it an unmissable attraction.
Ninh Kieu Wharf is a bustling waterfront hub in Can Tho Vietnam (Source: Collected)
2.2. Cai Rang Floating Market
Cai Rang Floating Market, one of the most famous Can Tho markets and floating markets in the Mekong Delta, is located downstream on the Can Tho River, where around 300-400 boats gather daily. This vibrant market features a unique selling method, where vendors hang their products, such as sweet potatoes and mangoes, on poles to attract buyers.
Operating mainly in the early morning, Can Tho floating market Vietnam is busiest around 7-8 AM. Visitors can explore the lively atmosphere by navigating small boats and enjoying interactions with the friendly locals. Recognized as one of the world’s most impressive markets, experiencing Cai Rang is among the top things to do in Can Tho Vietnam, offering a taste of authentic local life.
2.3. Binh Thuy Ancient House
Binh Thuy Ancient House, an architectural gem over 100 years old, showcases the blend of Eastern and Western influences. Located on Bui Huu Nghia Street, this house was built in the 1870s by the Duong family as an ancestral worship site. Visitors can admire its elegant design, which features French tiles and furniture amidst lush gardens. On the Can Tho Vietnam map, Binh Thuy Ancient House served as a filming location for J.J. Annaud’s “The Lover.” The collection of antiques further enhances its allure, making it an ideal place for exploring Can Tho’s heritage.
Binh Thuy Ancient House features impressive architecture (Source: Collected)
2.4. Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary
Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, located about 60 km away from the center of Can Tho Vietnam, is a serene haven for nature enthusiasts. This sanctuary is home to thousands of storks and other migratory birds, creating a picturesque scene against the lush greenery. Visitors can stroll along winding paths and observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. The best time to visit the sanctuary is from 6 AM to 7 AM, when flocks of storks soar across the sky. It offers boat rides for a closer look at the storks nesting in the trees.
2.5. My Khanh Tourist Village
My Khanh Tourist Village is among the top places to visit in Can Tho Vietnam. Located just 20 minutes away from the city center, this village is nestled along the peaceful Can Tho River. Here, visitors can enjoy diverse activities, from exploring seasonal fruit gardens to engaging in the unique “One Day as a Landlord” experience. The village features traditional Southern Vietnamese architecture, delightful local dishes, and various fun games, offering a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion for every traveler.
My Khanh Tourist Village, a peaceful haven in Can Tho Vietnam (Source: Collected)
2.6. Con Son Community Tourist Village
Con Son is a charming attraction that highlights what to do in Can Tho Vietnam. Known for fertile land, this islet boasts lush orchards filled with fruits like rambutan, pomelo, and guava, allowing visitors to pick and enjoy fresh produce right from the trees. Here, tourists can immerse themselves in the daily life of the locals, experiencing traditional activities such as making banh khot and banh in. Additionally, visitors can witness the fascinating sight of snakehead fish leaping above the water gracefully when fed.
2.7. Munir Ansay Temple
Munir Ansay Temple, built in 1948, is a prominent Khmer pagoda in Can Tho Vietnam. This temple features stunning architecture with an entrance gate shaped like a stupa. The spacious grounds provide a serene atmosphere, highlighted by a majestic stupa surrounded by intricate reliefs depicting symbols of Khmer culture. The main hall houses statues of Buddha Shakyamuni and other revered figures. Annually, festivals like Cholchonam Thomay (Khmer New Year) and Ok-om-Book (Water Offering Ceremony) are held here with joy.
Munir Ansay Temple is a striking Khmer pagoda (Source: Collected)
2.8. Canton Assembly Hall of Can Tho (Ong Pagoda)
Ong Pagoda, also known as the Canton Assembly Hall of Can Tho, is a stunning historical site in Ninh Kieu District. Built between 1894 and 1896, it serves as a place of worship for the Chinese community in Can Tho Vietnam. The temple features an intricate design with traditional Chinese motifs and vibrant ceramic decorations. Visitors can explore its spacious courtyard, which has an impressive main hall that houses statues of various deities. Many festivals are held here throughout the year such as the Guan Gong Festival, offering a glimpse into the heritage of the local Chinese community.
2.9. Truc Lam Zen Monastery
Truc Lam Zen Monastery, located in Phong Dien District, features architecture influenced by the Ly-Tran dynasties across its 4-hectare grounds. This monastery has around 20 structures, including a lecture hall, a 9-tier stupa, and various facilities. Impressively, nearly 1,000 blocks of African ironwood are utilized in its construction. The main hall houses a striking 3.5-ton bronze statue of Buddha Shakyamuni and a 1.5-ton bell. Intricately carved statues of Bodhisattvas, made from 800-year-old Thuja wood, further enhance the monastery’s spiritual ambiance.
Wondering what to see in Can Tho Vietnam? – Consider Truc Lam Zen Monastery (Source: Collected)
2.10. Fruit orchards in Can Tho
Can Tho Vietnam is an ideal location for growing a variety of tropical fruits. Some of the most popular fruits here are star apples, plums, longans, strawberries, durians, mangosteens, rambutans, etc. The fruit orchards of Can Tho Vietnam are primarily found in Phong Dien District and Tan Loc Islet. Visitors can enjoy fresh fruits year-round thanks to the diverse planting seasons. Some notable orchards to explore include Vam Xang, Con Au, Giao Duong, My Tho, My Khanh, Vu Binh, and My Thuan. They all offer a unique opportunity to savor the region’s delicious produce.
2.11. Tan Loc Islet
Tan Loc Islet, located over 40 kilometers from the city center, is known for its abundant fruit orchards. The islet, formed by the Mekong River silt, spans over 3,200 hectares, offering delicious tropical fruits like guava and rambutan. Visitors can explore the orchards, participate in local practices like fishing on rowing boats, and enjoy the Fruit Festival held in May and June. Traditional houses dot the landscape of the islet, providing insights into the cultural heritage of the region through stories shared by the owners.
Tan Loc Islet is a picturesque retreat in Can Tho Vietnam (Source: Collected)
Note the Mekong Delta map for a fun-filled trip!
3. The best foods to try in Can Tho, Vietnam
Visitors to Can Tho Vietnam can indulge in an array of dishes that highlight the region’s cuisine. From flavorful street food to exquisite specialties, the culinary scene in Can Tho invites diners to savor the authentic taste of the Mekong Delta.
3.1. Banh xeo (pancake)
Banh xeo, or Vietnamese pancake, are savory crepes made from rice flour, turmeric, and coconut milk. Traditionally filled with shrimp, pork, bean sprouts, and mushrooms, these pancakes are cooked in sizzling hot pans. Served with fresh herbs and a tangy dipping sauce, banh xeo is a popular street food in Can Tho Vietnam. It embodies the vibrant flavors of the local cuisine, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes.
3.2. Banh cong (cong cake)
Banh cong, originating from the Khmer community, is a delightful Vietnamese dish similar to banh khot but thicker with a more generous filling. The filling combines mung bean flour, cassava, and minced meat, which are poured into molds and fried until golden. Topped with shrimp, its crispy exterior and rich flavor blend harmoniously. Banh cong is often rolled with fresh herbs and dipped in chili garlic sauce.
Can Tho Vietnam offers a variety of traditional cakes like banh xeo and banh cong (Source: Collected)
3.3. Pizza hu tieu (rice noodle pizza)
Pizza hu tieu is a creative dish that reimagines the traditional pizza using familiar Vietnamese rice noodles. Instead of a baked crust, it features crispy fried hu tieu noodles topped with fried eggs, stewed pork, and a drizzle of coconut milk. The combination of egg, pork, peanuts, and greens creates a unique flavor that delights anyone who tries it.
3.4. Oc nuong tieu (grilled snails with pepper)
Grilled snails with pepper, a beloved dish in Can Tho Vietnam, is known for its rustic flavors. The snails are cleaned in rice water, quickly boiled, then grilled over charcoal. They are topped with a mixture of fish sauce, crushed green pepper, fried shallots, and seasonings. The enticing aroma draws diners in, and each bite offers a delightful blend of sweetness and spiciness.
Oc nuong tieu embodies the authentic flavors of the Mekong Delta (Source: Collected)
3.5. Ca loc nuong trui (grilled snakehead fish)
Ca loc nuong trui is a dish rooted in the culture of the Mekong Delta. It stands out for its simplicity, where fresh fish are not scaled or marinated but rather skewered and wrapped in dried straw before being grilled over an open flame. As the fish cooks, it releases a fragrant aroma. Served with rice paper, noodles, herbs, and a flavorful dipping sauce, ca loc nuong trui offers a delightful dining experience.
3.6. Lau mam (fermented fish hotpot)
Lau mam, a must-try in the Mekong Delta, is made with fermented snakeskin gourami fish, beautifully blending Khmer and Vietnamese flavors. The spicy aroma of the fish warms the soul, while the hotpot is served with rice noodles and fresh vegetables like napa cabbage, water lily buds, and eggplant. This bold dish leaves a lasting impression, often prompting diners to return for a second helping.
There are many restaurants in Can Tho Vietnam (Source: Collected)
3.7. Lau vit nau chao (duck with fermented bean curd hot pot)
Lau vit nau chao highlights the simplicity of duck and fermented bean curd (chao) as the main ingredients. Chao is a signature delicacy of the Mekong Delta, particularly renowned in Can Tho Vietnam. To experience this dish at its finest, head to Ly Tu Trong Street in Ninh Kieu District, where you will find numerous restaurants specializing in this flavorful hotpot that captures the culinary essence of the region.
Additionally, don’t forget to enjoy other specialties such as ga um dau Ha Chau, banh hoi heo quay, nem nuong Cai Rang, banh tam bi, ba khia rang me, ca linh bong dien dien, chuoi nep nuong, etc.
Enjoy 17 must-try Vietnamese foods for an unforgettable journey!
4. Prominent tours for visitors to Can Tho, Vietnam
4.1. One-day tours in Can Tho City
Here are some exciting one-day itineraries for your trip to Can Tho Vietnam:
- Itinerary 1: Cai Rang Floating Market – Sau Hoai Rice Noodle Factory – Muoi Cuong Cocoa Garden
- Itinerary 2: Cai Rang Floating Market – Hung Temple – Binh Thuy Ancient House
- Itinerary 3: Cai Rang Floating Market – Vo Song Farm – Fruit gardens
- Itinerary 4: Cai Rang Floating Market – Ann Village – Ba Hiep Orchard
- Itinerary 5: Binh Thuy Temple – Binh Thuy Ancient House – Con Son
- Itinerary 6: Truc Lam Zen Monastery – My Khanh Tourist Village or Rach Sao Eco Garden
- Itinerary 7: Gian Gua Historical Site – Lung Cot Cau Ecological Area or Lung Tram Ecological Area
Explore the beauty of Can Tho Vietnam in just one day (Source: Collected)
4.2. Thot Not tours
Alternatively, tourists can opt for an organized itinerary in Thot Not District, Can Tho, Vietnam. Here are some recommended tours:
- Itinerary 1: Thu Van Grape Garden – Tan Loc Coconut Garden – Tran Ba The Old House – Ms. Diep’s Guava Garden – Ut Anh’s fermented fish factory – Doan No Fish Farm
- Itinerary 2: Tan Loc Dong Temple – Thanh Nam Eco Garden – Ms. Diep’s Guava Garden – Tran Ba The Old House – Ut Anh’s fermented fish factory – Tu Bi Rambutan Garden – Doan No Fish Farm
- Itinerary 3: Thuan Hung Rice Paper Village – Thuan Hung Temple – Nguyen Trong Quyen Memorial Site – Quang Phuc Eco Garden – Vi Phuoc Pagoda – Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary
- Itinerary 4: Bich Vam Apple Garden – Nguyen Trong Quyen Memorial Site – Thanh Hoa Temple – Quang Phuc Eco garden – Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary
- Itinerary 5: Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary – Thuan Hung Rice Paper Village – Thuan Hung Temple – Nguyen Trong Quyen Memorial Site – Ong Pagoda – Thoi Thuan Temple
5. Guide for first-time visitors to Can Tho, Vietnam
5.1. When is the best time to visit?
Can Tho experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: the rainy season from May to November and the dry season from December to April. Can Tho Vietnam weather is generally pleasant year-round, with little impact from storms. The best time to visit is from May to August, when the fruit orchards are in harvest. From September to November, the rising water offers a unique glimpse into rural riverine life. Meanwhile, the period from December to February is marked by vibrant pre-Tet floral displays.
The inviting weather in Can Tho Vietnam makes it a year-round destination (Source: Collected)
5.2. How to get there?
Vietnam Airlines and Vietjet Air offer flights to Can Tho Vietnam, with fares ranging from 1,700,000 to 2,000,000 VND. If you are departing from Ho Chi Minh City, you can just catch a Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho bus. The bus fare typically ranges from 130,000 to 180,000 VND. Alternatively, you can rent a motorbike and travel along National Road 1A. The trip covers nearly 170 km in about 4 hours.
5.3. Where to stay in Can Tho Vietnam?
Can Tho Vietnam offers a range of accommodations. Homestays are available for a budget experience. The hotels near Ninh Kieu Wharf are convenient, with mid-range options starting from 300,000 VND per night. For a more luxurious stay, riverside resorts and high-end hotels in Can Tho Vietnam offer beautiful views, with options ranging from 1,200,000 to 5,000,000 VND per night.
5.4. What to bring home as gifts?
Can Tho Vietnam offers a wide range of local specialties that will make excellent gifts for your family and friends. One of the most famous treats is banh tet la cam, known for its purple hue and distinct flavor. Nem chua (fermented pork) from Cai Rang is another savory option.
As Can Tho is abundant in fruit year-round, you can bring home Phong Dien honey oranges, Ha Chau strawberries, red-fleshed jackfruit, and seedless durians. For something more unique, try the famous cocoa products from Phong Dien District, dried fish, or fermented fish.
Can Tho offers a variety of local specialties to bring home as gifts (Source: Collected)
5.5. Extra tips
- Ask for the prices before boarding a boat tour, as well as before enjoying the food at Ninh Kieu Night Market.
- Ensure that the boat you board is equipped with life jackets.
- Consider taking a night cruise on the Hau River to experience don ca tai tu, a traditional music genre in southern Vietnamese.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats, as the weather can be hot.
- If you are visiting during the rainy season, carry a small umbrella for sudden showers.
Read more: Mekong Delta cruise: A comprehensive guide for first-timers
In general, Can Tho Vietnam is a captivating destination that showcases the essence of rural riverine life in the Mekong Delta. Its lush landscapes, lively markets, and culinary offerings create an unforgettable experience for travelers. Here, visitors will find a rich tapestry of culture that truly represents the charm of southern Vietnam.
In addition to Can Tho, consider adding other enchanting destinations to your Vietnam travel like Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc. Hanoi boasts rich history, while Ha Long features stunning limestone karsts. Hoi An allures with its ancient town, while Nha Trang and Phu Quoc offer beautiful coastlines for relaxation.
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