12 Unmissable Things to Do in Can Tho City: A Year-Round Mekong Delta Guide

Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a captivating destination brimming with cultural, natural, and culinary experiences, perfect for year-round exploration. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its iconic floating markets, serene canals, and lush rural landscapes. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho offers a diverse array of activities, from sunrise boat tours to authentic homestays, all aligned with its “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours provide immersive, responsible ways to discover Can Tho’s charm—book your tour via the links throughout this guide

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho tours feature low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the Delta’s cultural and environmental heritage. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a hassle-free journey. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore Can Tho responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market and Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its expanded 6,400 km² region.

Located on the Hậu River, Can Tho City is the Mekong Delta’s largest urban center, with a population of over 4 million. Its tropical monsoon climate features a dry season (December–April, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and a rainy season (May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), creating a lush backdrop for year-round adventures. Can Tho’s attractions, from vibrant markets to historic sites, reflect its Vietnamese-Khmer heritage and commitment to sustainable tourism. Each month offers a unique experience, tied to seasonal events, festivals, or natural phenomena, making Can Tho a dynamic destination for eco-conscious travelers.

Key Highlights:

• Location: Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Vibe: A blend of riverine culture, urban energy, and rural tranquility.

• Sustainability: Emphasizes eco-friendly tourism with green transport and local support.

Tip: Plan your visit around monthly highlights for a tailored experience, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

Below are 12 must-do activities in Can Tho City, each tied to a specific month to maximize your experience, with costs, eco-friendly options, and sustainable tour recommendations.

January: Celebrate Tet at Ninh Kieu Wharf

Overview: Ninh Kieu Wharf, on Hai Ba Trung Street, Ninh Kieu Ward, transforms into a festive hub during Tet (Lunar New Year, typically late January–early February), with vibrant flower markets showcasing native orchids and peach blossoms.

• Why Do It: Experience Can Tho’s cultural heart with street performances, traditional Bánh Tét Lá Cẩm ($2–$4 or 50,000–100,000 VND), and riverine sunset views (5:30–6:30 PM).

• Cost: Free entry; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Walk from central hotels or cycle (1 km, $1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND).

• Tip: Visit during Tet’s flower market for festive vibes, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

February: Explore Cai Rang Floating Market

Overview: Cai Rang Floating Market, 6 km from Ninh Kieu on Cai Rang River, is the Delta’s largest wholesale market, recognized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. February’s post-Tet bustle offers vibrant trading of fruits ($0.50–$3/kg or 12,500–75,000 VND).

• Why Do It: Witness riverine commerce at sunrise (5:30–7:00 AM), sample Bánh Tầm Bì ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), and support local vendors.

• Cost: Private electric boat $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–4 people, 2–3 hours); group tour $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND/person).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric boats reduce emissions.

• Tip: Book a sunrise tour for peak market energy, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

March: Cycle to My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village

Overview: My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village, 12 km from Ninh Kieu in Phong Dien Ward, spans 50,000 m² with orchards and canals, recognized as a Top 100 Vietnam Destination in 2013. March’s mild weather is ideal for cycling.

• Why Do It: Harvest rambutans ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), try rice paper-making ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), and dine on Lẩu Bần ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); bike rental $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND); activities $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle from Ninh Kieu to reduce emissions.

• Tip: Visit in March for comfortable cycling, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

April: Attend the Cai Rang Floating Market Festival

Overview: Held in April, this festival celebrates Can Tho’s river culture with boat races, traditional đờn ca tài tử music, and food stalls at Cai Rang Floating Market.

• Why Do It: Experience vibrant Delta traditions, taste Cong Cake ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND), and join locals in festive events.

• Cost: Free entry; boat tour $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND); food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric boats and reusable utensils at stalls.

• Tip: Arrive early (6:00 AM) for festival highlights, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

May: Join the Ha Dien Ceremony

Overview: The Ha Dien Ceremony (12th–14th of the 4th lunar month, typically May–June) at Binh Thuy Communal House, Binh Thuy Ward, prays for a prosperous planting season with rituals and folk games.

• Why Do It: Participate in sticky rice contests ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) and enjoy UNESCO-recognized đờn ca tài tử music, immersing in agrarian traditions.

• Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); games $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle to Binh Thuy (6 km, $1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND).

• Tip: Attend the main ritual (13th) for cultural depth, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

June: Savor Mekong Delta Cuisine at Tay Do Night Market

Overview: Tay Do Night Market, in Cai Khe Ward, 2 km from Ninh Kieu, is a culinary hub with Delta specialties like Nem Nướng Cái Răng ($1.50–$3 or 37,500–75,000 VND) and Chuối Nếp Nướng ($0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND). June’s summer produce enhances flavors.

• Why Do It: Taste local dishes, shop for crafts ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND), and support vendors.

• Cost: Free entry; food $0.50–$5 (12,500–125,000 VND); crafts $2–$10 (50,000–250,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Walk or use electric taxis ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).

• Tip: Visit in June for fresh mangosteens, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

July: Visit Phong Dien Floating Market

Overview: Phong Dien Floating Market, 17 km from Ninh Kieu in Phong Dien Ward, is a serene retail market with 45–60 sampans trading fruits and crafts. July’s lush rainy season enhances canal scenery.

• Why Do It: Enjoy a tranquil market vibe, taste hủ tiếu ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), and support local traders.

• Cost: Private electric boat $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–4 people, 2–3 hours); group tour $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND/person).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric boats minimize noise pollution.

• Tip: Visit at sunrise (5:30–7:00 AM) for calm waters, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

August: Tour Binh Thuy Ancient House

Overview: Binh Thuy Ancient House, 6 km from Ninh Kieu in Binh Thuy Ward, is a 1870 French-Vietnamese relic used for Duong family worship, blending colonial and Asian architecture. August’s cooler rains suit indoor exploration.

• Why Do It: Explore antique furniture, orchid gardens, and Delta history ($1 or 25,000 VND entry).

• Cost: Entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle from Ninh Kieu to reduce emissions.

• Tip: Pair with Binh Thuy Communal House, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

September: Live Like a Local at a Homestay

Overview: Homestays in Cai Rang or Phong Dien Wards, like Green Village Homestay, offer immersive stays with local families, including cooking classes ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND) and fishing ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND). September’s abundant fruits enhance meals.

• Why Do It: Share home-cooked meals ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), learn Vietnamese-Khmer traditions, and support communities.

• Cost: $10–$35/night (250,000–875,000 VND); activities $2–$20 (50,000–500,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Choose homestays with organic gardens or solar power.

• Tip: Stay in Cai Rang for market proximity, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

October: Discover Can Tho Museum

Overview: Can Tho Museum, 1 km from Ninh Kieu on Hoa Binh Boulevard, houses over 5,000 artifacts showcasing Vietnamese-Khmer history, upgraded in 2000. October’s cooler weather suits indoor visits.

• Why Do It: Learn about Delta agriculture and colonial history (free entry).

• Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Walk or cycle from Ninh Kieu.

• Tip: Hire a guide for historical insights, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

November: Birdwatch at Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary

Overview: Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, 52 km from Ninh Kieu in Thot Not Ward, spans 2 hectares with over 300,000 birds across 20 species, like painted storks. November’s nesting season is prime for birdwatching.

• Why Do It: Observe flocks at dusk (4:30–6:00 PM) from a 7m tower, supporting conservation ($1 or 25,000 VND entry).

• Cost: Entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND); electric taxi $15–$20 (375,000–500,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric taxis minimize emissions.

• Tip: Visit at dusk for peak activity, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

December: Join the Thuong Dien Ceremony

Overview: The Thuong Dien Ceremony (14th–16th of 11th lunar month, typically December) at Binh Thuy Communal House gives thanks for the harvest with boat races and folk games.

• Why Do It: Experience Delta traditions, enjoy Bánh Xèo contests ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), and immerse in festive cheer.

• Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); games $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle to Binh Thuy or use electric taxis.

• Tip: Attend on the 15th for boat races, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

• Location: Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes (50,000–500,000 VND) for markets and vendors.

• Transport:

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$15/day (125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Taxi/Grab: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) within 1–15 km.

  • Electric Boat: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–3 hours).

• Accommodation: Homestays $10–$35/night (250,000–875,000 VND); budget hotels $15–$50/night (375,000–1,250,000 VND); luxury resorts like Victoria Can Tho Resort $100–$200/night (2,500,000–5,000,000 VND).

• Accessibility: Urban sites like Ninh Kieu Wharf are accessible; boat-based markets are not wheelchair-friendly.

• Climate: Dry season (December–April) for sunny exploration; rainy season (May–November) for lush scenery.

• Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or festivals.

• Packing for Climate:

  • Dry Season: Lightweight clothing, hat, sunglasses, SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND).

  • Rainy Season: Lightweight raincoat ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), waterproof bag.

  • Year-Round: Reusable water bottle, mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Sustainability: Support local vendors, use electric boats or bikes, and avoid plastic waste to align with Can Tho’s green goals.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, Phong Dien, and Thot Not Wards; save Ninh Kieu Wharf as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; wear life jackets on boats; check lunar calendar for festival dates.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for temples and ceremonies (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); respect local customs.

• Health: Stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent for outdoor activities.

Our sustainable tours cover Can Tho’s 12 monthly highlights with eco-friendly transport:

• Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets, canal cruise, floating breakfast via electric boat. Includes guide and eco-transfers.

• Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Cai Rang market, Tay Do Night Market, Bánh Xèo tasting, cooking class via bicycle. Includes meals and guide.

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tay Do Night Market, Can Tho Museum, Ong Temple via bicycle. Includes snacks and guide.

• Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Ha Dien/Thuong Dien Ceremony, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Can Tho Grand Prison via electric taxi. Includes lunch and guide.

• Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, My Khanh Eco-Village, Tra Su Bird Sanctuary via electric boat. Includes transfers and guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): All 12 activities, homestays ($10–$35/night or 250,000–875,000 VND), festivals via mixed eco-transport. Includes meals, activities, and guide.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!

Can Tho City is a year-round gateway to the Mekong Delta, offering 12 unique activities that capture its cultural, natural, and culinary richness, from Tet celebrations at Ninh Kieu Wharf to birdwatching at Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. Each month brings a fresh perspective, aligned with Can Tho’s sustainable tourism vision. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure a responsible, immersive journey, blending local experiences with green travel practices. Don’t miss out—browse our curated tours and book your Can Tho Travel adventure today!
Ready to discover Can Tho’s Mekong Delta magic? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and create unforgettable memories in Vietnam’s riverine heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys. (By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group)