Safi
Rabat
Thu, Sep 10
+ Add return
2 Travelers

Discover Can Tho

About Can Tho, Vietnam

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, situated on the south bank of the Hau River. As of the latest census, it has a population of over 1.2 million residents. Known for its extensive network of canals and floating markets, Can Tho serves as a vital economic and cultural hub in southern Vietnam. Travelers are drawn to its unique water-based lifestyle and lush, surrounding countryside, making it a compelling destination for those exploring the Mekong Delta.

Main Points of Interest in Can Tho
  • Cai Rang Floating Market: One of the largest floating markets in the Mekong Delta, offering a variety of local fruits and goods.
  • Ninh Kieu Wharf: A bustling riverfront area with parks, restaurants, and a scenic promenade.
  • Ong Pagoda: A historic Chinese temple notable for its vibrant architecture and cultural significance.
  • Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary: A bird sanctuary home to thousands of storks and other bird species, offering a glimpse into the region's biodiversity.
  • Munirangsyaram Pagoda: A Khmer-style temple reflecting the cultural diversity of the region.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Can Tho

Can Tho experiences a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when temperatures range from 25-30°C (77-86°F) and rainfall is minimal. The wet season, from May to November, sees higher humidity and frequent rain showers.

Budget and Travel Costs in Can Tho

Can Tho is considered budget-friendly for travelers. The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND), with an approximate exchange rate of 23,500 VND to 1 USD.

  • Accommodation:
    • Budget Hotel Room: $15 - $30 USD (350,000 - 700,000 VND) per night.
    • Mid-range Hotel: $30 - $60 USD (700,000 - 1,400,000 VND) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Street Food Meal: $1 - $3 USD (23,500 - 70,000 VND).
    • Restaurant Meal: $5 - $10 USD (117,500 - 235,000 VND).
  • Activities:
    • Boat Tour of Floating Market: $10 - $20 USD (235,000 - 470,000 VND).
Transportation To and From Can Tho

Can Tho is a key transportation hub in the Mekong Delta.

  • Airports: Can Tho International Airport (VCA) offers domestic flights and limited international connections.
  • Roadways: Major highways connect Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City (170 km to the northeast) and other Mekong Delta cities.
  • Bus Services: Regular bus services link Can Tho to major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City, Rach Gia, and Chau Doc.
  • River Transport: Ferry services and boat tours provide access to various destinations along the Mekong Delta.

Top Can Tho Routes by Transport Type

Flight from Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
7
31
09:35
20:50
5h41m
$30.03
  4.1
2
11
09:35
20:50
8h23m
$42.23
7
63
08:05
21:20
2h38m
$42.67
  4.8
2
8
14:20
15:30
0h55m
$63.75
  5.0
2
4
13:00
13:25
2h5m
$51.09
1
13
09:35
20:50
14h3m
$171.74
2
13
09:35
20:50
19h50m
$220.94
1
1
15:30
15:30
17h10m
$597.78
2
15
09:35
21:50
8h48m
$168.48
1
1
19:25
19:25
23h5m
$704.26
1
8
09:35
21:20
16h18m
$190.88
1
5
09:35
19:25
18h59m
$391.31
1
1
19:25
19:25
17h35m
$522.85
3
3
08:05
08:05
2h5m
$58.21
1
3
09:35
19:25
13h48m
$442.24
1
2
14:05
19:25
17h5m
$217.78
1
1
19:25
19:25
18h10m
$393.91
1
8
09:35
19:25
16h18m
$415.32
2
5
08:05
20:05
13h30m
$245.64

Bus from Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
274
00:00
23:00
4h0m
$7.67
  5.0
1
26
03:00
19:00
3h0m
$9.08
  4.0
1
27
04:00
18:00
3h0m
$10.87
  4.8
2
40
02:00
19:00
2h30m
$6.33
1
18
00:45
22:00
11h0m
$19.42
  4.5
1
2
05:30
05:30
7h12m
$18.43
  5.0

Ferry from Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
2
07:00
07:00
4h30m
$36.89

Van from Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
184
06:00
20:00
4h0m
$14.39

Flight to Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
6
73
00:00
23:35
9h6m
$30.24
  4.9
2
12
07:15
13:55
6h15m
$42.23
  5.0
7
112
04:40
23:55
8h10m
$59.41
  4.3
2
7
10:00
12:50
0h55m
$62.21
3
9
10:30
11:15
2h5m
$43.09
1
1
09:25
09:25
9h25m
$189.52
8
60
07:00
21:15
19h42m
$218.08
2
63
04:55
23:30
13h28m
$140.36
14
73
01:55
22:30
19h40m
$144.24
3
3
09:25
20:45
21h46m
$229.17
4
15
11:35
21:40
21h29m
$284.05
3
5
11:30
21:35
20h35m
$280.65
2
2
10:40
10:40
2h5m
$45.32
1
3
11:05
17:40
25h18m
$322.52
3
5
06:35
20:55
18h30m
$340.84
4
14
07:30
21:50
17h25m
$285.68
1
6
08:00
19:30
16h25m
$488.15
1
1
18:50
18:50
20h10m
$273.33
2
4
08:30
18:55
21h6m
$364.24
7
25
09:00
21:15
21h25m
$219.34

Bus to Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
381
00:00
23:00
4h0m
$6.33
  4.3
2
7
09:40
18:00
4h34m
$13.60
  3.5
2
20
04:00
18:00
3h0m
$8.00
  4.6
1
16
04:00
19:00
2h30m
$7.65
  4.7
4
11
08:00
15:00
7h4m
$19.55
  3.8
1
38
03:00
19:00
4h40m
$6.33
1
2
14:30
14:30
6h0m
$18.61
  5.0
4
5
08:00
11:30
9h24m
$27.20
1
10
01:00
22:00
11h0m
$19.42
  4.0

Ferry to Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
2
13:00
13:00
4h30m
$36.89

Van to Can Tho

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
8
08:00
15:00
8h30m
$16.50
  5.0
1
6
08:30
11:45
10h0m
$27.00
  3.0
1
5
08:30
16:00
8h0m
$20.00
1
6
08:45
10:15
11h25m
$40.00
  4.0
1
2
09:30
10:45
11h0m
$40.00
1
1
22:30
22:30
17h0m
$45.60
1
2
08:00
08:00
11h45m
$22.00
1
58
06:00
20:00
3h30m
$9.59
  4.5

Popular Questions

How do you avoid looking like a tourist in Can Tho?

To blend in and avoid looking like a tourist in Can Tho, dress modestly and comfortably, similar to locals. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal for the warm climate. Avoid flashy clothing or accessories that may draw attention.

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases, such as greetings and polite expressions, to show respect and facilitate interactions. Familiarize yourself with local customs, such as removing shoes when entering homes or certain establishments.

For transportation, consider using a bicycle or taking public buses like locals do, rather than relying solely on taxis. If you do use taxis, opt for reputable companies, and expect fares around 15,000-20,000 VND per kilometer ($0.60-$0.80).

When dining, visit local eateries or street food stalls, and try traditional dishes like “hu tieu” or “banh xeo.” This not only helps you blend in but also offers an authentic experience.

Carry a reusable water bottle, as tap water may not be safe to drink. Bottled water is widely available, and staying hydrated is essential.

Is Can Tho good for tourists?

Can Tho, located in Vietnam's Mekong Delta, is an appealing destination for tourists interested in experiencing local culture and nature. A highlight is the Cai Rang Floating Market, where visitors can observe and participate in a unique shopping experience on the water. The city also boasts the picturesque Ninh Kieu Wharf, ideal for evening strolls and dining.

Transportation
Getting around Can Tho is convenient with options like taxis (~20,000 VND per km or $0.80) and motorbike rentals (~150,000 VND per day or $6).

Dining
The culinary scene includes local specialties such as "banh xeo" (crispy pancakes) and fresh river fish. Street food is both popular and affordable.

Water Safety
Tap water is not safe for drinking—bottled water is recommended. The local rivers and canals are not suitable for swimming due to pollution, but boat tours offer a cleaner way to enjoy the waterways.

Can Tho provides a mix of cultural attractions and practical amenities, making it a worthwhile stop for travelers exploring southern Vietnam.

What is the most crowded place in Can Tho?

Ninh Kieu Wharf is often the most crowded place in Can Tho. It serves as a bustling hub for both locals and tourists. The area is known for its vibrant atmosphere, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and night markets. Visitors come to enjoy the scenic views of the Hau River and to embark on boat tours to the nearby floating markets, such as Cai Rang.

In addition to its popularity as a leisure destination, Ninh Kieu Wharf is also a central point for transportation, with many ferries and boats departing from here. This contributes to the high foot traffic, especially during peak tourist seasons and weekends. If you're planning to visit, consider going early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the largest crowds.

How to tell if a taxi is available in Can Tho?

In Can Tho, available taxis are typically indicated by an illuminated sign on the roof of the vehicle. If the light is on, it means the taxi is available for hire. Additionally, taxis often display an "Available" sign in the windshield.

For convenience, you can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab, which operate in Can Tho. These apps allow you to book a taxi directly from your smartphone, providing estimated fares and driver details in advance.

When using a traditional taxi, ensure the meter is turned on at the beginning of your ride. Typical taxi fares in Can Tho start at around 12,000 VND ($0.50), with additional charges per kilometer. Always check for reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun to avoid scams.

How can I move around in Can Tho?

Can Tho offers several transportation options for getting around the city. The most common way is by taxi, with fares starting around 15,000 VND ($0.60) per kilometer. Ridesharing apps like Grab are also available, providing a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

For a more local experience, consider renting a motorbike. Daily rental costs range from 100,000 to 150,000 VND ($4-$6). Ensure you have an international driving permit if you plan to drive.

Public buses operate throughout Can Tho, though they can be infrequent and routes may be confusing for newcomers. They are a budget-friendly option, with fares typically under 10,000 VND ($0.40).

Cycling is another pleasant way to explore, with several rental shops offering bicycles for around 50,000 VND ($2) per day. This can be especially enjoyable along the scenic riverside paths.

For visiting nearby floating markets, hiring a boat is a unique experience. Prices vary, but expect to pay around 300,000 VND ($12) for a morning trip.