History of Can Tho Museum: A Cultural Beacon of the Mekong Delta

Nestled in the vibrant core of Can Tho City, the heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, the Can Tho Museum stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural and historical tapestry. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its floating markets, lush orchards, and historical landmarks. The museum, located in Ninh Kieu Ward, preserves over 5,000 artifacts, from ancient Oc Eo relics to wartime memorabilia, offering a profound glimpse into the Delta’s Viet, Hoa, and Khmer heritage. Paired with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, a museum visit is the perfect complement to eco-friendly tours. Legend Travel Group crafts immersive experiences to explore Can Tho’s cultural gems—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a leading local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho tours utilize low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who illuminate the Delta’s history. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu and Cai Rang, 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 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. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its historical treasures.

The Can Tho Museum, one of the Mekong Delta’s most significant cultural institutions, was founded in 1976 as a repository for the region’s historical and cultural artifacts. Initially established to preserve the Delta’s heritage, it underwent several transformations before being officially named the Can Tho Museum in 1992. A major renovation from 1998 to 2000 modernized its facilities and exhibits, culminating in its grand inauguration on August 31, 2000.

Spanning 3,000 m² at 1 Hoa Binh Boulevard, Ninh Kieu Ward, the museum now houses over 5,000 artifacts, including ancient tools, pottery, war relics, and cultural items from the Viet, Hoa, and Khmer communities. Its mission is to educate visitors about Can Tho’s evolution through its geographical, economic, and social history, making it a cornerstone of Mekong Delta tourism. The museum’s growth reflects Can Tho’s rise as a cultural hub, especially after the city’s expansion into a major urban-rural metropolis.

Key Milestones

• 1976: Founded to preserve Mekong Delta artifacts.

• 1992: Officially named Can Tho Museum after multiple rebrands.

• 1998–2000: Underwent extensive renovation to enhance exhibits and public services.

• August 31, 2000: Inaugurated as the largest museum in the Mekong Delta.

• Ongoing: Continues to expand collections, with donations like amber-preserved artifacts and war relics from local collectors.

Tip: Visit with a guided tour ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND) for deeper historical context, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

The museum’s collection is organized across three floors, each offering a unique perspective on the Mekong Delta’s past and present:

• Ground Floor: Explores Can Tho’s geography, biodiversity, and ancient Oc Eo culture (1st–7th century), alongside Viet-Hoa-Khmer traditions.

• Second Floor: Showcases wartime relics from the American War (1955–1975), including weapons, photographs, and maps of local resistance.

• Third Floor: Highlights modern Can Tho, with exhibits on festivals, crafts, and rotating displays of local art.

Notable artifacts include fossil amber statues, ancient pottery, and preserved war trophies, offering a tangible connection to the Delta’s history. The museum also serves as an educational hub, hosting workshops and cultural events to engage visitors.

Tip: Spend 1–2 hours exploring; audio guides ($2 or 50,000 VND) enhance the experience. Included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

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

• Hours: Tuesday–Sunday, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM; Saturday, Sunday, and holidays, 6:30 PM–9:00 PM (closed Mondays).

• 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: Visit nearby Ninh Kieu Wharf or Ong Pagoda, 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, ideal 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: Choose eco-friendly bikes or electric taxis via the Xanh SM app to support Can Tho’s sustainability goals.

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

• Tip: Weekday mornings are less crowded. 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: Use reusable water bottles and tote bags to align with Can Tho’s green initiatives.

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

• Safety: Secure 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 pair the Can Tho Museum with the Delta’s iconic attractions:

• 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!

Can Tho Museum chronicles the Mekong Delta’s journey from ancient civilizations to modern resilience. Its 5,000+ artifacts tell stories of innovation, struggle, and diversity, making it a must-visit in Can Tho City. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours guide you through the museum alongside the Delta’s floating markets, pagodas, and sanctuaries, 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 uncover the Mekong’s history? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Can Tho City’s cultural legacy!

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.

Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group