Discover Can Tho Museum: Top Highlights of Mekong Delta Heritage

Located in the vibrant heart of Can Tho City, the cultural epicenter of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, the Can Tho Museum is a must-visit for those seeking to understand the region’s rich heritage. As Vietnam’s largest city by landmass after the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho draws millions to its floating markets, canals, and historical landmarks. The museum, situated in Ninh Kieu Ward, houses over 5,000 artifacts, showcasing the Delta’s diverse Viet, Hoa, and Khmer cultures, ancient Oc Eo relics, and wartime history. Complemented by Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability efforts, a museum visit pairs perfectly with eco-friendly tours. Legend Travel Group offers curated experiences to dive deeper into Can Tho’s story—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, delivers authentic Southeast Asia adventures with a focus on sustainability. Our Can Tho tours feature low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who bring the Delta’s heritage to life. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu and Cai Rang, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. Enjoy transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore with purpose!

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 cultural sites like the Can Tho Museum. Sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—makes exploring Can Tho seamless.

Spanning 3,000 m² at 1 Hoa Binh Boulevard, the Can Tho Museum, established in 1976 and renovated in 2000, is the Mekong Delta’s largest cultural institution. Its three floors house over 5,000 artifacts, offering a vivid journey through the region’s past and present. Here are the must-see highlights:

1. Mekong Delta’s Natural and Cultural Roots (Ground Floor)

The ground floor provides an immersive introduction to Can Tho’s geography and multicultural heritage. Key exhibits include:

• Oc Eo Culture: 1st–7th century artifacts from the Funan Kingdom, including pottery and jewelry, showcasing ancient trade networks.

• Viet-Hoa-Khmer Heritage: Traditional costumes, tools, and festival displays celebrating the Delta’s ethnic diversity.

• Biodiversity and Agriculture: Models of rice fields, orchards, and river ecosystems, highlighting Can Tho’s role as Vietnam’s agricultural heartland.

Tip: Rent audio guides ($2 or 50,000 VND) for detailed insights. This floor is included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

2. Wartime Legacy and Resistance (Second Floor)

The second floor is dedicated to Can Tho’s role in Vietnam’s struggles, particularly during the American War (1955–1975). Standout displays include:

• War Relics: Authentic weapons, radios, medals, and vehicle parts used by local fighters.

• Historical Photographs: Black-and-white images capturing key moments of resistance and military strategies.

• Interactive Maps: Visuals tracing troop movements and battles across the Mekong Delta.

Tip: Allow 30–45 minutes to absorb the emotional weight of these exhibits. Photography is permitted without flash. Included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

3. Modern Can Tho and Artistic Traditions (Third Floor)

This floor celebrates Can Tho’s contemporary culture and craftsmanship, featuring:

• Post-War Development: Artifacts from modern festivals like the Cai Rang Floating Market Festival and urban growth.

• Traditional Crafts: Khmer embroidery, Viet pottery, and musical instruments, showcasing local artistry.

• Rotating Exhibits: Temporary displays of local artists or Delta innovations (check schedules at the entrance).

Tip: Visit early to enjoy these exhibits in peace. Included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

4. Bao Tang Café: A Cultural Pause

Nestled within the museum, Bao Tang Café offers a serene spot to relax with Vietnamese coffee, fresh juices, or Delta snacks like bánh xèo (crispy pancakes).

• Cost: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per item.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Tuesday–Sunday.

• Tip: Savor a cà phê sữa đá (iced milk coffee) while planning your next stop. Free Wi-Fi available.

• Location: 1 Hoa Binh Boulevard, Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City.

• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed Mondays). Evening hours on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays: 6:30 PM–9:00 PM.

• Admission: $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND, adults); $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, children). Free for seniors over 60.

• Guided Tours: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) for 1-hour English tours, bookable on-site or via Legend Travel Group.

• Accessibility: Wheelchair ramps and elevators available.

• Tip: Pair your visit with nearby attractions like Ninh Kieu Wharf, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

Getting to the Museum

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND) from Ninh Kieu hotels, perfect for the 1–2 km ride.

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) from city center.

• Walking: 10–15 minutes from Ninh Kieu Wharf.

• Tip: Opt for eco-friendly bikes or electric taxis via the Xanh SM app to support Can Tho’s green initiatives.

The dry season (January–May) offers ideal weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) for combining museum visits with outdoor Delta adventures. The rainy season (June–December) provides cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and fewer crowds, perfect for indoor exploration.

• Peak Season (January–May): Book tours early for events like the Cai Rang Floating Market Festival (April).

• Shoulder Season (March–April, November): Mild weather, quieter museum visits.

• Tip: Visit on weekdays to avoid school groups. 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 modest clothing (covered shoulders, knees) to respect cultural norms.

• Sustainability: Carry reusable water bottles and tote bags to align with Can Tho’s green goals.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu. The museum is centrally located.

• Safety: Store valuables in lockers ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Health: Apply mosquito repellent for nearby outdoor sites; stay hydrated.

Our sustainable tours enhance your Can Tho Museum experience with Delta highlights:

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Can Tho Museum, Ong Pagoda, Ninh Kieu Wharf. Includes bike rentals, museum entry, and snacks.

• Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang Floating Market, museum visit, canal cruise. Includes electric boat and breakfast.

• Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Can Tho Museum, Binh Thuy Ancient House, orchards. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, museum stop. Includes boat rides and eco-transfers.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Museum, 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

The Can Tho Museum is a cultural cornerstone, offering an unparalleled glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s history, diversity, and resilience. From ancient Oc Eo artifacts to wartime relics and modern crafts, its exhibits captivate and educate. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours extend your visit to Can Tho’s vibrant markets, pagodas, and sanctuaries, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience that supports local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to explore the Mekong’s heritage? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Can Tho’s cultural treasures!

Author Bio: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights and guest feedback.