Visit Can Tho: Top 7 best things to do and see

Known as Tay Do – the capital of the Mekong Delta for over a century, Can Tho remains one of the most captivating destinations in southern Vietnam. Despite rapid economic growth, the city preserves its unique river culture. Let Hanoi Voyages guide you through exciting activities and local delicacies for a delightful Can Tho trip!

Best time to visit Can Tho

Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta, enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season (December to April) is the most pleasant time to visit, with cool temperatures, little rainfall and ideal conditions for exploring floating markets and river tours. Meanwhile, the fruit season (May to July) offers a vibrant experience with lush orchards and fresh tropical fruits at their peak.

To make the most of your trip, plan your visit between December and April for comfortable weather or May to July to enjoy the bountiful harvest. These periods ensure the best opportunities to experience Can Tho’s unique charm and natural beauty.

Top 7 experiences you shouldn’t miss in Can Tho

Famous for its blend of rustic river life and modern city charm, Can Tho offers countless attractions and unique experiences for visitors to enjoy. Join Hanoi Voyages as we explore 7 must-try activities in this vibrant destination!

Explore the Cai Rang floating market

Cai Rang floating market has been a lively gathering place since the early 20th century, where locals sell agricultural products, fruits and regional specialties. It’s a great destination for travelers looking to experience the unique river culture of Vietnam. Visitors can browse souvenir stalls, try making traditional folk cakes or even ride a boat to experience life as a floating vendor.

To visit Cai Rang floating market, travelers need to rent a boat, the only way to explore the market and immerse themselves in the river life. The two most common ways to rent a boat here are joining a group tour on a large boat or renting a private boat for groups.

The trip lasts about two hours, allowing enough time to fully explore Cai Rang floating market. Below are the rental prices:

• 1 to 10 passengers: $33,62/boat

• 11 to 20 passengers: $39,9/boat

• 21 to 30 passengers: $45,73/boat

• 31 to 40 passengers: $52,38/boat

• 41 to 45 passengers: $58,24/boat

Join our Vietnam tour 18 days with Sapa and Phu Quoc to explore the Cai Rang floating market - the most famous in the Mekong Delta!

Enjoy the waterfront scenery of Ninh Kieu wharf

Ninh Kieu wharf is located at the junction of the Hau and Can Tho rivers in Ninh Kieu district, Can Tho city. With a long history, it has played an important role in transportation and trade, contributing to the local economy since the 19th century.

Over time, it has become a popular tourist destination, known for its scenic river views, green trees and colorful flower gardens. As a cultural symbol of Can Tho, the wharf attracts many visitors who come to enjoy its peaceful atmosphere and explore the city’s rich heritage.

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Ninh Kieu wharf with these exciting activities:

Taste Can Tho’s delicious local food

Delicious local specialties are a key attraction of every region and Can Tho is no exception. Its cuisine blends the unique flavors of the Mekong Delta with fresh ingredients, representing its rich food culture. To fully experience Can Tho’s culinary delights, here are 3 must-try dishes.

Hu tieu pizza

Have you ever imagined what a fusion of Italian pizza and Vietnamese hu tieu would taste like? In Can Tho, you can experience this unique combination with the famous hu tieu pizza, a crispy and flavorful dish that captures the essence of local cuisine.

Instead of the usual thin crust, hu tieu pizza is made from crispy deep-fried rice noodles, topped with savory braised pork, fresh herbs and crunchy roasted peanuts. The vibrant colors and rich flavors blend perfectly, making it both a visual and culinary delight that no visitor should miss.

🍽️ Restaurant to try: Pizza hu tieu cho Cai Rang - Que Toi (Cai Rang district), Pizza hu tieu Sau Hoai (Ninh Kieu district), Lo hu tieu Chin Cua (Ninh Kieu district)

💰Price: $3,91

Fermented fish hotpot

Fermented fish hotpot is a flavorful hotpot dish from Can Tho, featuring a rich, savory broth made from fermented fish. It is cooked with various meats, seafood and over 20 types of vegetables, creating a delicious harmony of bold, aromatic flavors that represent Southern Vietnamese cuisine.

🍽️ Restaurant to try: Lau mam Da Ly (Ninh Kieu district), Lau mam Ma Nam (Ninh Kieu district), Lau mam Huong Dua (Ninh Kieu district)

💰Price: $3,91 - $9,77

Can Tho sizzling pancake

If you're unsure what to eat in Can Tho, sizzling pancakes are a great choice. This signature Mekong Delta dish features a crispy golden crust filled with minced pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Wrap it in fresh greens and dip it in fish sauce for extra flavor.

🍽️ Restaurant to try: Banh xeo Bay Toi (Ninh Kieu district), Banh xeo Ngoc Ngan (Ninh Kieu district), Banh xeo Muoi Xiem (Binh Thuy district)

💰Price: ~$1,17

Aren’t these dishes worth trying? Join our Vietnam family tour 10 days to savor them and experience the best of Can Tho cuisine

Admire dozens of stork species at Bang Lang stork garden

Bang Lang stork garden in Can Tho is home to over 300,000 storks from around 20 different species. Here, you can spot various types, including ivory storks, night herons, green storks and little egrets, creating a vibrant and diverse bird sanctuary.

The garden is most lively in the early morning when flocks of storks take flight in search of food. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with the breathtaking sight of thousands of white-feathered birds soaring against the sky, offers visitors a truly relaxing and mesmerizing experience.

📌Address: Thoi Binh 1, Thuan An ward, Thot Not district, Can Tho

💰Entrance fee: ~$1

⌛Opening hours: 5am - 7:30pm daily

Visit the sacred Ong pagoda

Ong pagoda in Can Tho is a sacred temple over 120 years old, renowned for its unique architecture and cultural significance. Located on Hai Ba Trung street in Ninh Kieu district, it was recognized as a national historical site in 1993, attracting many visitors. The soothing scent of incense fills the air, creating a serene atmosphere that brings a sense of tranquility and spiritual comfort.

📌Address: 32 Hai Ba Trung street, Tan An ward, Ninh Kieu district, Can Tho

⌛Opening hours: 7am - 8pm daily

Wander through Ba Cong fruit garden

Ba Cong fruit garden attracts visitors with its lush greenery and abundant tropical fruits hanging from the branches. Walking through the garden, guests can admire vibrant flowers along the paths and find countless perfect spots for stunning check-in photos.

After exploring, visitors can relax in the spacious dining area, where each table receives a selection of five seasonal fruits, all incredibly fresh and delicious. The juicy sweetness and natural vitamins provide a refreshing boost, ensuring energy for the rest of the journey.

📌Address: 166/LO, group 7, Binh Pho B ward, Binh Thuy district, Can Tho

⌛Opening hours: 7am - 5pm daily

💰Entrance fee: Garden visit - $0,39/person, visit and fruit tasting - $0,78/person.

Watch the joyful ‘flying snakehead fish’ at Con Son

One of the most exciting experiences in Can Tho is witnessing the "flying snakehead fish" show. These fish live in floating cages and follow a strict feeding routine set by their caretaker, creating a fascinating display of discipline and training.

At feeding time, the caretaker strikes a bell to signal the fish, letting them know food is coming. As the food is tossed into the cage, the fish instinctively leap high to catch it, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that never fails to amaze visitors.

💰Entrance fee: $1,52 per person

Where to stay in Can Tho?

If you're looking for a luxurious experience, hotels in Can Tho will provide the perfect getaway. The top-tier services from high-end resorts and hotels ensure absolute peace of mind for your stay. Here are the top 3 choices to consider.

Muong Thanh luxury Can Tho hotel

Muong Thanh luxury Can Tho hotel, one of the top hotels in Can Tho, offers stunning views of Can Tho bridge, the gentle Hau river and the bustling city. Guests, including families, couples, and business travelers, enjoy modern amenities, an outdoor pool, a free kids’ play area, and diverse regional and international cuisine.

📌Address: E1 zone, Cai Khe islet, Cai Khe ward, Ninh Kieu district, Can Tho city

💰Price: $62,54

Azerai Can Tho

Azerai Can Tho, just 1.5 km from Ninh Kieu wharf, provides a serene retreat with stylish rooms, free WiFi and exceptional facilities. Guests can unwind at the spa, stay active in the fitness center, or relax by the outdoor pool while savoring delicious Vietnamese cuisine at the on-site restaurant.

📌Address: Au Islet Eco-Tourism Urban Area Hung Phu Ward, Cai Rang District, Can Tho

💰Price: $130 - $250

Legacy Mekong Can Tho resort

Legacy Mekong Can Tho Resort spans 8 hectares, blending traditional architecture with a contemporary touch. It features scenic river and lake views while preserving century-old trees. The resort offers 30 bungalows and 5 luxury villas with modern amenities for a relaxing stay.

📌Address: Au islet, Hung Phu ward, Cai Rang district, Can Tho

💰Price: $207,15

Getting around Can Tho: Transport choices for tourists

For first-time visitors to Can Tho, getting around might seem challenging. Hanoi Voyages presents popular transport options, helping you explore the city with ease and comfort.

Motorbike

Renting a motorbike provides an affordable way to explore Can Tho, with prices ranging from $3,13 to $5,86 per day. Most hotels have this service, or you can ask the staff for recommendations to avoid overpricing.

Motorized rickshaw

In Can Tho, motorized rickshaws are a daily mode of transport for locals and a unique experience for tourists. For around $3,91, you can enjoy a 45-minute ride to famous attractions, floating markets, or lush orchards. At night, riding through the peaceful streets while admiring the serene rivers creates an unforgettable experience.

Taxi

Taxis are the perfect choice for long distances and saving travel time. Popular options include Mekong taxi, priced from $0,39 to $0,51/km, and Khanh Cuong taxi, which offers different rates based on vehicle type, along with many other taxi companies.

Bus

Buses in Can Tho provide an affordable and convenient way to explore the city and nearby areas. With a well-connected network, they serve key attractions, markets, and suburban districts. Although schedules may vary, they remain a budget-friendly option for travelers.

Boat

Can Tho’s vibrant waterway network makes boats a popular mode of transport, especially around Ninh Kieu wharf. You can rent private boats for $11,73 - $19,54 per trip or opt for shared rides at $1,95 per person. Always prioritize boats with safety gear for a secure journey

Can Tho travel guide: Essential tips for a hassle-free trip

For a smooth and memorable trip, check out these essential Can Tho travel tips. These useful insights will help you navigate the city with ease. With the right information, you can enjoy a hassle-free and unforgettable experience.

Be cautious when traveling on waterways

One of the most important Can Tho travel tips is to always wear a life jacket when joining boat tours in Can Tho. Boats can be unstable, especially on narrow canals. River currents can be strong, so follow the boat operator’s instructions and be careful when boarding or disembarking.

Bring sunscreen and a hat

Can Tho’s weather can be hot, especially in the morning when visiting floating markets. Strong sunlight may cause sunburn, so apply sunscreen with high SPF, wear a wide-brimmed hat or bring a light jacket for protection.

Carry cash for local purchases

Many vendors at floating markets and local eateries do not accept card payments or digital wallets. ATMs may not always be available nearby, so having small-denomination cash on hand makes transactions easier and ensures a hassle-free shopping and dining experience.

For more details, please check out: All about currency exchange in Vietnam: What you should know?

Use insect repellent

Can Tho’s river areas and orchards have many mosquitoes, especially in the evening or after rain. To avoid insect bites, apply mosquito repellent, wear long sleeves, and take extra precautions when exploring gardens, boat rides or outdoor attractions.

Explore Can Tho and soak in its vibrant river life, rich culture and unique charm. Create unforgettable memories as you cruise through floating markets, savor delicious local cuisine, and experience the beauty of the Mekong Delta with our Can Tho travel guide. Contact Hanoi Voyages today to plan your perfect trip!