Getting Around Can Tho City: Transportation Options, Costs & Eco-Friendly Tours

Can Tho City, the bustling hub of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, offers a vibrant tapestry of floating markets, serene canals, and cultural landmarks, best explored through diverse transportation options. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, attracting millions with its riverine charm and sustainable tourism initiatives. Known as the “Western Capital” or “Tây Đô,” Can Tho provides a range of transport modes—from eco-friendly bicycles and electric boats to motorbikes and taxis—catering to every traveler’s needs. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability goals, navigating the city responsibly enhances your experience of iconic sites like Cai Rang Floating Market and Ninh Kieu Wharf. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours offer seamless, sustainable ways to explore Can Tho—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 navigate 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 key attractions like Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its urban and riverine landscapes.

Can Tho City, located on the Hậu River, is the Mekong Delta’s largest urban center, blending modern transport with traditional river-based options. Its compact city center, centered around Ninh Kieu Ward, is walkable, while outer attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market (6 km) and Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Monastery (15 km) require boats, bikes, or vehicles. The city’s tropical climate (dry season: January–May, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F; rainy season: June–December, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) influences transport choices, with eco-friendly options like electric boats and bicycles gaining popularity. Can Tho’s transport network supports sustainable tourism, ensuring access to its vibrant markets, historical sites, and rural orchards.

Key Transport Options:

• Bicycles: Eco-friendly, ideal for short distances and rural paths.

• Motorbikes: Flexible for independent exploration, though licenses are required.

• Taxis and Ride-Hailing: Convenient for urban and airport transfers.

• Boats: Essential for floating markets and canal tours.

• Sustainability: Emphasis on electric vehicles and low-impact transport aligns with Can Tho’s green goals.

Tip: Combine transport modes (e.g., bike and boat) for a comprehensive experience, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

Can Tho offers a variety of transportation options tailored to different budgets, preferences, and sustainability goals. Below are the most reliable ways to navigate the city, with updated costs and eco-friendly alternatives.

1. By Rental Bicycle

Cycling is a sustainable, immersive way to explore Can Tho’s flat city center, rural paths, and attractions like Ninh Kieu Wharf or My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village (12 km). Bikes are widely available at hotels, hostels, and rental shops, ideal for short distances (1–15 km).

• Cost: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), depending on bike quality.

• Where to Rent: Ninh Kieu Wharf area, hotels like Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho, or eco-tourism sites like Lê Lộc Ecotourism Area.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Choose manual bikes to reduce carbon footprint; electric bikes ($5–$10/day or 125,000–250,000 VND) are available for longer rides.

• Pros: Affordable, eco-friendly, scenic routes through orchards and canals.

• Cons: Not ideal for rainy season (June–December) or heavy traffic areas; check brakes and tires before renting, as some bikes are designed for lighter locals.

• Safety Tips: Wear a helmet (often included), avoid peak traffic (7–8 AM, 5–6 PM), and use bike lanes where available.

• Tip: Cycle to Binh Thuy Ancient House (6 km) for a leisurely ride, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

2. By Rental Motorbike

Motorbikes offer flexibility for independent travelers exploring Can Tho’s urban and rural areas, such as Cai Rang Floating Market or Phong Dien (17 km). However, a Vietnamese driver’s license or International Driving Permit (IDP) is required, as standard IDPs are not valid without conversion.

• Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND); automatic scooters $7–$10, manual bikes $4–$6. Fuel ~$1/liter (25,000 VND).

• Where to Rent: Hotels, hostels, or shops in Ninh Kieu Ward; reputable providers include Can Tho Motorbike Rental (+84 292 382 2222).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Limited; some shops offer electric scooters ($8–$12/day or 200,000–300,000 VND).

• Pros: Freedom to explore at your pace, access to rural areas.

• Cons: Risky in chaotic traffic; fines ($20–$50 or 500,000–1,250,000 VND) for lacking a valid license; not recommended for inexperienced riders.

• Safety Tips: Wear a helmet (mandatory, included), check brakes and lights, avoid night riding, and carry insurance.

• Tip: Hire a motorbike with a local driver ($15–$25/day or 375,000–625,000 VND) for safety, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

3. By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps

Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab, Be, and Xanh SM (electric taxis) are convenient for urban travel, airport transfers (10 km from city center), or longer trips to Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Monastery (15 km).

• Cost:

  • Taxis: $0.50–$0.70/km (12,500–17,500 VND); city center to Cai Rang (6 km) $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); airport to Ninh Kieu (10 km) $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).

  • Ride-Hailing: Grab motorbikes $0.30–$0.50/km (7,500–12,500 VND); cars $0.60–$0.80/km (15,000–20,000 VND). Airport pickup may add $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) for zone fees.

• Providers:

  • Taxis: Mai Linh (+84 292 382 8282), Vinasun (+84 292 382 7272), Xanh SM (electric, +84 1900 2088).

  • Apps: Grab, Be, Xanh SM (download via App Store/Google Play; requires internet).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Xanh SM’s electric taxis reduce emissions; Grab offers GrabBike Electric in Ninh Kieu.

• Pros: Comfortable, reliable, no driving required; apps provide transparent pricing.

• Cons: Taxis less abundant than in Ho Chi Minh City; apps require internet and may not operate in rural areas like Phong Dien.

• Safety Tips: Use reputable providers, confirm meter use for taxis, or book via apps to avoid scams.

• Tip: Book Xanh SM for eco-friendly airport transfers, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

4. By Local Boat

Boats are the quintessential way to explore Can Tho’s floating markets (Cai Rang, Phong Dien) and canal networks, offering an authentic glimpse into the Delta’s riverine lifestyle. Sampans (small wooden boats) and larger ferries depart from Ninh Kieu Wharf or Cai Rang Pier.

• Cost:

  • Private Sampan: $12–$25 (300,000–625,000 VND) for 2–4 people, 2–3 hours; $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND) for 4–6 hours.

  • Group Boat Tour: $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND) per person, 2–3 hours.

  • Ferry to Rural Areas: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) one-way, e.g., to Con Son Islet.

• Where to Book: Ninh Kieu Wharf, Cai Rang Pier, or through Legend Travel Group for eco-friendly options.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric sampans ($15–$30 or 375,000–750,000 VND) reduce noise and emissions, supporting Delta conservation.

• Pros: Access to floating markets, canals, and rural sites; immersive cultural experience.

• Cons: Boat-based; not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers; early starts (4:30 AM–5:00 AM) for markets.

• Safety Tips: Wear life jackets (provided), secure valuables, and confirm itinerary with boat operators.

• Tip: Book a sunrise sampan tour to Cai Rang, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

5. By Walking

Can Tho’s compact city center, especially Ninh Kieu Ward, is walkable, with attractions like Ninh Kieu Wharf, Ong Temple (200 m), and Can Tho Grand Prison (1 km) within 5–15 minutes.

• Cost: Free.

• Best Areas: Ninh Kieu Wharf, Hai Ba Trung Street, Tay Do Night Market (1 km).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Walking is the greenest way to explore, reducing carbon footprint.

• Pros: Free, immersive, ideal for street food and nightlife.

• Cons: Limited to short distances; not suitable for rural attractions or rainy season.

• Safety Tips: Use pedestrian paths, watch for motorbikes, and avoid poorly lit areas at night.

• Tip: Stroll to Ninh Kieu Night Market for evening vibes, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

6. By Public Bus

Public buses are an affordable option for city travel and short inter-ward trips, though routes are limited and signage may be in Vietnamese only.

• Cost: $0.30–$1 (7,500–25,000 VND) per ride, e.g., Ninh Kieu to Cai Rang (6 km) or Phong Dien (17 km).

• Routes: Can Tho Bus Station to Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, or Phong Dien; key stops include Can Tho University and Cai Rang Bridge.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Buses reduce individual carbon emissions compared to taxis or motorbikes.

• Pros: Cheap, eco-friendly, connects key wards.

• Cons: Confusing routes for non-Vietnamese speakers; crowded during peak hours (7–8 AM, 5–6 PM).

• Safety Tips: Use apps like BusMap or Google Maps for routes; carry small VND notes for fares.

• Tip: Take bus to Cai Rang Bridge for a market overview, then switch to a boat, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

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

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) or use Google Maps for routes; save key locations like Ninh Kieu Wharf and Cai Rang Pier.

• Internet: Free Wi-Fi at hotels and cafes; consider a tourist SIM ($6–$10 or 150,000–250,000 VND for 30 days, 1–2 GB/day) for ride-hailing apps.

• Safety: Avoid unlicensed transport; confirm prices before rides; carry a hotel card for return navigation.

• Accessibility: Most transport (e.g., boats, motorbikes) is not wheelchair-friendly; taxis and walking suit mobility-impaired travelers in Ninh Kieu.

• Language: Basic Vietnamese phrases like “bao nhiêu” (how much) or “cảm ơn” (thank you) enhance interactions; guides provide English support on tours.

• Dry Season (January–May): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) is ideal for cycling, walking, and boat tours; perfect for Cai Rang Floating Market visits.

• Rainy Season (June–December): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) suit indoor transport like taxis; bring rain gear for boat tours or cycling.

• Peak Hours to Avoid: 7–8 AM and 5–6 PM for traffic; early mornings (5:00 AM–7:00 AM) are best for markets and calm roads.

• Tip: Plan sunrise boat tours and afternoon cycling to avoid heat; 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.

• Sustainability: Opt for electric boats, bikes, or Xanh SM taxis to support Can Tho’s eco-goals; avoid plastic waste with reusable bottles.

• Bargaining: Negotiate motorbike or boat rentals politely; confirm prices upfront to avoid disputes.

• Traffic Awareness: Watch for motorbikes when walking or cycling; use designated lanes where available.

• Emergency Contacts: Save taxi hotlines (e.g., Mai Linh +84 292 382 8282) and Legend Travel Group (+84825862222) for assistance.

• Health: Carry mosquito repellent for boat tours or rural rides; stay hydrated with bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

Our sustainable tours combine Can Tho’s top attractions with eco-friendly transport:

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

• Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Cai Rang market, Ninh Kieu Night Market, cooking class via bike and electric taxi. Includes meals and guide.

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ong Temple, Ninh Kieu Wharf, Binh Thuy Ancient House via bicycle. Includes snacks and guide.

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

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Floating markets, homestays ($10–$25/night), orchards via mixed eco-transport. Includes 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!

Getting around Can Tho City is an adventure in itself, with eco-friendly bicycles, electric boats, motorbikes, and taxis offering diverse ways to explore the Mekong Delta’s vibrant heart. From sunrise sampan tours to Cai Rang Floating Market to leisurely bike rides through rural orchards, Can Tho’s transport options cater to every traveler. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure a seamless, responsible journey, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience combining iconic sites with low-impact travel. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to navigate Can Tho’s waterways and streets? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and discover the Mekong Delta’s charm sustainably!

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.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group