Discover Can Tho Bridge, a vital link in Can Tho City, connecting the Mekong Delta’s heart. Explore its history, role, and eco-friendly tours with Legend Travel Group for an unforgettable adventure!
Can Tho Bridge, an architectural marvel spanning the Hau River, is a cornerstone of Can Tho City, the bustling hub of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its vibrant floating markets, cultural landmarks, and serene waterways. Completed in 2010, this cable-stayed bridge connects Can Tho to Vinh Long, fulfilling a century-long dream of uniting the river’s banks. Its striking design, historical significance, and role in regional connectivity make it a must-visit, perfectly complemented by Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives. Legend Travel Group offers eco-friendly tours to experience the bridge and Can Tho’s treasures—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 use low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the Delta’s rich stories. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu and Binh Thuy 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 seamless journey. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore 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 iconic sites like Can Tho Bridge. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its attractions.
Can Tho Bridge is the backbone of regional connectivity, linking Can Tho City with Vinh Long and facilitating travel to the Delta’s western provinces, including An Giang, Kien Giang, Bac Lieu, and Ca Mau. Before its completion, the “North Can Tho” ferry, established by the French in 1914, was the primary crossing, often overcrowded and time-consuming. The bridge’s opening in 2010 revolutionized transportation, boosting economic growth, trade, and tourism across the Delta. It has solidified Can Tho’s role as the region’s commercial and cultural hub, making it easier for travelers to explore attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market and Binh Thuy Ancient House.
Tip: Use the bridge as a gateway to the Delta, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).
The bridge represents the realization of a long-cherished dream to connect the Hau River’s banks. Conceived in 1993, the project took 17 years to complete, reflecting the Delta’s enduring aspiration for progress. Its completion marked a transformative moment, replacing the century-old ferry system with a modern marvel that symbolizes unity and resilience.
Tip: Learn about this history on a guided tour, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Can Tho Bridge is more than infrastructure—it’s a cultural icon that embodies the Delta’s spirit. By enhancing accessibility, it has spurred tourism, enabling visitors to discover the Delta’s diverse heritage, from Khmer pagodas to Viet markets. Economically, it has opened new trade routes, supporting the Delta’s agricultural and aquaculture industries, known as Vietnam’s “southern granary.”
Tip: Explore its impact with our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Can Tho Bridge was officially inaugurated on April 24, 2010, after six years of construction starting September 25, 2004. At the time, its 550-meter main span made it Southeast Asia’s longest cable-stayed bridge, a record it held with pride. The bridge’s completion marked a milestone in Vietnam’s infrastructure, earning global recognition for its scale and engineering, comparable to the world’s top 10 largest bridges, as noted by the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).
Key Details:
Length: 15.85 km, including approach roads.
Main Span: 550 meters, supported by 216 cable-stayed fibers.
Pylon Height: 175.3 meters, allowing large vessels to pass.
Cost: ~USD 342 million, partly funded by JBIC.
Tip: Marvel at its engineering on our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
The journey to build Can Tho Bridge began in 1993, when the idea was first proposed to replace the aging ferry system. From conception to completion in 2010, the project spanned 17 years, reflecting the complexity and ambition of uniting the Hau River’s banks. Construction faced challenges, including a tragic 2007 collapse that claimed lives, underscoring the sacrifices made. A Vietnam-Japan collaboration, with funding from JBIC and expertise from firms like Taisei Corporation, the bridge’s completion was a triumph of perseverance, fulfilling a generational longing for connectivity.
Tip: Hear stories of its construction with our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Scenic Walks/Cycling: Stroll or bike along pedestrian paths for Hau River views.
Cost: Free; bicycle rental $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).
Photography: Capture the bridge’s orange cables at sunrise or its lights at night.
Tip: Best from Au Islet or Ninh Kieu Wharf, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Riverboat Tours: Cruise beneath the bridge for unique angles.
Cost: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND).
Cai Rang Floating Market (7 km): Vietnam’s largest floating market, bustling with local trade.
Cost: Boat tours $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND).
Tip: Visit at dawn, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Binh Thuy Ancient House (7 km): A 1870 heritage home blending Viet and French styles, featured in The Lover.
Cost: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Tip: Included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Ninh Kieu Wharf (2 km): A lively riverside with night markets and street food.
Cost: Free; cruises $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).
Tip: Included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Tra Su Bird Sanctuary (30 km): A 845-hectare wetland with vibrant birdlife.
Cost: $4–$6 (100,000–150,000 VND).
Tip: Included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Ong Pagoda (2 km): A serene 19th-century Chinese temple.
Cost: Free; donations $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Tip: Combine these for a full Delta adventure with our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).
Location: Thuan An Ward, Thot Not District, Can Tho City (spanning Hau River to Vinh Long).
Access: Free to cross by foot, bicycle, or vehicle; viewing points open 24/7.
Best Viewing Spots: Ninh Kieu Wharf (2 km) or Au Islet riverbanks.
Guided Tours: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) for 1-hour tours with bridge history, bookable via Legend Travel Group.
Accessibility: Pedestrian paths available; limited wheelchair access due to steps.
Tip: Pair with Cai Rang Floating Market, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND) from Ninh Kieu, ideal for 2–3 km ride.
Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for flexibility.
Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) from city center.
Electric Boat: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND) for river tours with bridge views.
Tip: Use eco-friendly bikes or electric boats via Xanh SM app to support Can Tho’s green initiatives.
The dry season (January–May) offers sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F), ideal for bridge views and outdoor exploration. The rainy season (June–December) brings cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and lush scenery, with fewer crowds.
Peak Season (January–May): Book tours early for festivals like Cai Rang Floating Market Festival (April).
Shoulder Season (March–April, November): Mild weather, quieter visits.
Tip: Night visits highlight the bridge’s lighting; check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.
Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for January–May.
Dress Code: Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for pedestrian paths.
Sustainability: Use reusable water bottles and tote bags to align with Can Tho’s green goals.
Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Thot Not District. Bridge is 2 km from Ninh Kieu.
Safety: Stay on designated paths; avoid crossing during peak traffic. Secure valuables.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Health: Apply mosquito repellent near riverbanks; stay hydrated.
Our sustainable tours pair Can Tho Bridge with the Delta’s top attractions:
Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang Floating Market, Can Tho Bridge views, canal cruise. Includes electric boat and breakfast.
Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Can Tho Bridge, Ong Pagoda, Ninh Kieu Wharf. Includes bike rentals and snacks.
Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Can Tho Bridge, Binh Thuy Ancient House, orchards. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.
Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, bridge stop. Includes boat rides and eco-transfers.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Can Tho Bridge, floating markets, homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes transfers, meals, and activities.
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 Bridge, more than a crossing, is the heartbeat of Can Tho City, connecting the Mekong Delta’s past with its vibrant future. Its role in uniting provinces, boosting tourism, and embodying regional dreams makes it a must-visit landmark. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours guide you to the bridge alongside Can Tho’s floating markets, heritage homes, and natural wonders, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience that supports eco-friendly practices. Don’t wait—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to cross Can Tho’s iconic bridge? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in the Mekong Delta’s soul!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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