First-Timer’s Guide to Can Tho City: Essential Tips for Your Mekong Delta Adventure

Can Tho City, the vibrant hub of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a must-visit destination known for its iconic floating markets, lush orchards, and rich cultural heritage. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, attracting millions with its bustling waterways, historic sites, and sustainable tourism initiatives. As the “Western Capital” or “Tây Đô,” Can Tho offers an authentic glimpse into Delta life, from the lively Cai Rang Floating Market to serene canal tours and spiritual landmarks like Ong Temple. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability goals, it’s perfect for eco-conscious travelers seeking immersive experiences. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours ensure a seamless and responsible journey—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 experience. 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 Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Monastery. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its cultural and natural treasures.

Located on the south bank of the Hậu River, a major branch of the Mekong, Can Tho City is the largest urban center in the Mekong Delta, with a population of 1.6 million. Known as “Cầm Thi Giang” (River of Poems), it blends rural charm with urban development, offering iconic attractions like Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and historic sites such as Binh Thuy Ancient House. Its tropical climate features a dry season (January–May) and a rainy season (June–December), making it a year-round destination. Can Tho’s commitment to sustainable tourism, including eco-friendly transport and local vendor support, ensures a responsible travel experience.

Key Features:

• Location: Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, 169 km (3.5 hours) from Ho Chi Minh City.

• Climate: Tropical, with dry season (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and rainy season (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F).

• Vibe: A blend of vibrant riverine culture, rural tranquility, and sustainable urban growth.

• Sustainability: Emphasizes eco-friendly tourism and cultural preservation.

Tip: Plan your visit for early mornings to experience vibrant markets, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

Planning your first trip to Can Tho? These practical tips will ensure a smooth, sustainable, and memorable adventure in the Mekong Delta.

Packing and Preparation

1. Comfortable Clothing: Pack lightweight, breathable outfits (cotton or linen) for outdoor activities like market tours or orchard visits. Long sleeves and pants protect against sun and mosquitoes.

   • Cost: Affordable clothing $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) at local markets like Ninh Kieu Night Market.

   • Tip: Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

2. Insect Repellent: Essential for lush orchards (e.g., Ba Cong) and canal tours to avoid mosquito bites, especially during the rainy season.

   • Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) at local pharmacies.

   • Tip: Apply before dawn market tours, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

3. Sunscreen and Hydration: Use SPF 50+ sunscreen to combat intense UV rays (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F). Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated; refill at tour stops.

   • Cost: Sunscreen $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND); bottled water $0.50 (12,500 VND).

   • Tip: Pack a waterproof bag for boat tours, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

4. Rain Gear: A lightweight raincoat or poncho is crucial for sudden showers in the rainy season (June–December), especially on river boats.

   • Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) at local markets.

   • Tip: Check AccuWeather before tours, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

5. Travel Essentials: Bring a small backpack for essentials like a camera, charger, and VND cash (50,000–500,000 VND notes) for markets and small vendors.

   • Tip: Use a money belt to secure cash, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

Cultural and Practical Tips

1. Haggling Etiquette: Bargaining is common at markets like Cai Rang or Ninh Kieu Night Market. Start at 70–80% of the quoted price for fruits ($0.50–$3 or 12,500–75,000 VND per kg) or souvenirs ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND) and settle amicably.

   • Tip: Learn “bao nhiêu” (how much) for smoother haggling, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. Safety and Security: Keep an eye on belongings in crowded markets to avoid pickpockets. Use hotel safes for passports and valuables.

   • Tip: Carry a photocopy of your passport, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

3. Boat Safety for Floating Markets: When booking sampan tours ($12–$25 or 300,000–625,000 VND), check for life jackets and ensure the boat is stable. Avoid overloaded vessels for safety.

   • Tip: Choose eco-friendly electric sampans, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

4. Romantic Hậu River Cruise: Experience a sunset or evening cruise on the Hậu River, featuring UNESCO-recognized đờn ca tài tử folk music performances (7:00 PM–9:00 PM).

   • Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) per person, including dinner.

   • Tip: Book a dinner cruise for an unforgettable evening, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

5. Language Basics: Learn simple Vietnamese phrases like “xin chào” (hello) and “cảm ơn” (thank you) to connect with locals, as English may be limited outside tourist areas.

   • Tip: Rely on English-speaking guides, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

6. Sustainable Practices: Support local vendors at markets and choose eco-friendly transport like bicycles ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or electric boats to reduce your environmental impact.

   • Tip: Avoid plastic waste by using reusable bags, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

7. Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards to navigate markets, temples, and canals easily.

   • Tip: Save key locations like Ninh Kieu Wharf, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

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

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes for markets.

• Transport:

  • Can Tho International Airport: 10 km from city center; flights to Hanoi, Phu Quoc, Da Nang ($30–$100 or 750,000–2,500,000 VND).

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City: 3.5 hours, $4–$7 (100,000–175,000 VND) from Western Bus Station.

  • Local Transport: Bicycle ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND), motorbike ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND), taxi/Grab ($2–$8 or 50,000–200,000 VND).

• Accommodation: Budget guesthouses ($10–$20 or 250,000–500,000 VND/night), mid-range hotels ($30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND/night), luxury hotels like Vinpearl ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND/night).

• Dining Costs: Street food like bánh cống or phở ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND); restaurant meals ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND).

• Accessibility: Most attractions (e.g., Ninh Kieu Wharf, Ong Temple) have paved paths; floating markets are boat-based, limiting wheelchair access.

• Dry Season (January–May): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) is ideal for floating markets, canal tours, and outdoor exploration. The Cai Rang Floating Market Festival (April) adds cultural vibrancy.

• Rainy Season (June–December): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and lush scenery; abundant fruits like mangosteens enhance market visits. Expect brief showers; plan indoor activities like temple visits.

• Pre-Tet (Late January–Early February): Festive trading at markets and vibrant Tet flower markets at Ninh Kieu Wharf; quieter during Tet itself.

• Tip: Visit in March–April for mild weather or September–October for fruit abundance; check AccuWeather for updates.

Our sustainable tours offer immersive experiences in Can Tho City, tailored for first-time visitors:

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

• Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Cai Rang market, Ninh Kieu Night Market, bánh cống tasting, cooking class. Includes eco-transports, meals, and guide.

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ong Temple, Ninh Kieu Wharf, Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Monastery. Includes bike rentals, snacks, and guide.

• Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, Cai Rang market, My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village. Includes sampan rides and eco-transports.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Floating markets, homestays ($10–$25/night), orchards, cultural sites. Includes transfers, meals, and activities.

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

Can Tho City is a captivating gateway to the Mekong Delta, offering first-time visitors a vibrant blend of floating markets, cultural landmarks, and sustainable adventures. With these essential tips—from packing smart to navigating markets responsibly—you’ll be ready for an unforgettable journey. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours ensure a seamless, authentic experience, combining Can Tho’s iconic sites with mindful travel. Don’t miss out—browse our curated tours and book your Mekong Delta adventure today!

Ready to discover Can Tho’s riverine charm? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a sustainable journey through the Mekong Delta