Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho City by Bus: Routes, Costs & Eco-Friendly Tours

Traveling by bus from Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) to Can Tho City is a convenient, affordable, and scenic way to explore the heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, renowned for its vibrant floating markets and lush waterways. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, spanning 6,400 km², attracting visitors to its cultural and natural wonders like Cai Rang Floating Market. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho is approximately 169 km southwest of HCMC, a 3–4.5-hour bus ride through rice paddies and rural villages. Modern buses and limousines offer comfort, with eco-friendly options supporting Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours enhance your journey, offering immersive Delta experiences—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures, welcoming approximately 15,000 travelers annually. Our Can Tho tours feature eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by experts who share the Delta’s cultural 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 seamless experience. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and plan your bus journey to 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, creating a vibrant economic hub spanning 6,400 km². District-level units are now wards or communes, improving road connectivity via National Route 1A to attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho ensures a smooth bus travel experience.

The 169 km journey from HCMC to Can Tho City by bus or limousine takes 3–4.5 hours, covering a well-maintained route through the Mekong Delta’s scenic landscapes. Can Tho’s tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season (December–May, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and rainy season (June–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F), makes buses a reliable choice year-round, with air-conditioned comfort and frequent departures. Options include standard sleeper buses, seater buses, and luxury limousines, with eco-friendly operators using fuel-efficient vehicles. Major bus stations like Mien Tay in HCMC and Can Tho Central Bus Station facilitate easy transfers, while limousines offer hotel-to-hotel service. Pairing your bus trip with sustainable tours ensures a low-impact visit to Can Tho’s vibrant attractions.

Key Bus Features:

• Distance: 169 km from HCMC to Can Tho.

• Duration: 3–4.5 hours, depending on traffic and stops.

• Bus Types: Seater, sleeper, limousine (VIP).

• Sustainability: Fuel-efficient buses and eco-tours support green travel.

Tip: Book a limousine for comfort or a sleeper bus for overnight travel, paired with our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

Traveling by bus or limousine from HCMC to Can Tho offers affordability and convenience, with multiple operators and schedules. Below are the options, updated costs, contacts, and tips for a sustainable journey, excluding outdated operators like Hoang Long Limousine, which has shifted focus to northern routes.

1. By Standard Bus

Standard buses, including seater and sleeper options, are the most affordable way to travel, departing frequently from HCMC’s Mien Tay Bus Station to Can Tho’s central stations. Modern buses feature air-conditioning, reclining seats, and amenities like Wi-Fi, blankets, and water.

• Types:

  • Seater Bus: 4 rows (2 per side), ideal for daytime travel and groups.

  • Sleeper Bus: 3 rows of bunk beds, perfect for overnight trips.

• Duration: 3.5–4.5 hours, with 1–2 rest stops (15–20 minutes).

• Cost:

  • Seater: $6–$9 one-way (180,000–270,000 VND).

  • Sleeper: $8–$12 one-way (240,000–360,000 VND).

• Major Operators:

  • Futa Bus Lines (Phuong Trang):

    • Address: Mien Tay Bus Station, 395 Kinh Duong Vuong, An Lac, Binh Tan, HCMC; Can Tho Central Bus Station, 91B Nguyen Van Linh, Hung Loi, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.

    • Hotline: +84 28 3838 6852

    • Schedule: Every 30–60 minutes, 12:00 AM–11:00 PM.

    • Features: Free shuttle to/from city centers, Wi-Fi, blankets, water; fuel-efficient buses.

    • Booking: www.futabus.vn, Futa app, or Mien Tay counters.

  • Thanh Buoi:

    • Address: Mien Tay Bus Station, HCMC; Thanh Buoi Office, 266–268 Le Hong Phong, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.

    • Hotline: +84 292 3878 787

    • Schedule: Hourly, 5:00 AM–10:00 PM.

    • Features: Sleeper buses with chargers, Wi-Fi; free city shuttles.

    • Booking: www.thanhbuoi.vn or station counters.

  • Anh Tuan Bus:

    • Address: Mien Tay Bus Station, HCMC; Can Tho Bus Station, Hung Loi, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.

    • Hotline: +84 28 3962 4097

    • Schedule: 6:00 AM–8:00 PM, every 2 hours.

    • Features: Sleeper buses with soft beds, air-conditioning; local sourcing for onboard snacks.

    • Booking: www.vexere.com or station counters.

• Departure Points:

  • HCMC: Mien Tay Bus Station (9 km from District 1, taxi $3–$5 or 90,000–150,000 VND, 20 min) or operator offices in District 1 (e.g., 266 Le Hong Phong for Thanh Buoi).

  • Can Tho: Can Tho Central Bus Station or Ninh Kieu Wharf; free shuttles to hotels.

• Sustainability: Operators like Futa use fuel-efficient buses, reducing emissions; free shuttles minimize taxi use.

• Pros: Affordable, frequent departures, modern amenities, eco-friendly options.

• Cons: Mien Tay is far from HCMC’s center; potential traffic delays.

• Tip: Book with Futa for free shuttles, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

2. By Limousine (VIP Bus)

Limousine buses offer a premium experience with spacious seats, personal entertainment systems, and hotel-to-hotel service, ideal for comfort-focused travelers. These VIP minibuses seat 9–12 passengers, ensuring a quieter ride.

• Duration: 3–4 hours, with 1 rest stop (10–15 minutes).

• Cost: $12–$20 one-way (360,000–600,000 VND).

• Major Operators:

  • Vu Linh Limousine:

    • Address: 354 Ly Thuong Kiet, District 10, HCMC; E11, Street 8, Thanh Loi Area, Cai Rang, Can Tho.

    • Hotline: +84 292 3915 151

    • Schedule: Every 1–2 hours, 4:00 AM–11:00 PM.

    • Features: Reclining leather seats, Wi-Fi, USB chargers, steward service, hotel pick-up/drop-off; fuel-efficient vehicles.

    • Booking: www.vulinhlimousine.vn, Traveloka, or office counters.

  • Son Nguyen Limousine:

    • Address: 272 De Tham, District 1, HCMC; 123 Hung Vuong, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.

    • Hotline: +84 292 3823 456

    • Schedule: Every 2 hours, 6:00 AM–10:00 PM.

    • Features: Personal screens, snacks, blankets, hotel transfers; eco-friendly minibuses.

    • Booking: www.sonnguyenlimousine.com or office counters.

  • Loc Phat Limousine:

    • Address: 354 Ly Thuong Kiet, District 10, HCMC; Can Tho Office, 45 Nguyen Trai, Ninh Kieu, Can Tho.

    • Hotline: +84 292 3918 918

    • Schedule: Every 1.5 hours, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.

    • Features: Spacious seats, Wi-Fi, water, hotel pick-up; uses low-emission vehicles.

    • Booking: www.locphatlimo.vn or Traveloka.

• Departure Points:

  • HCMC: Hotel pick-up in Districts 1, 3, or 10; some depart from Mien Tay Bus Station.

  • Can Tho: Hotel drop-off in Ninh Kieu or Cai Rang; Can Tho Central Bus Station for some routes.

• Sustainability: Smaller minibuses reduce emissions; hotel transfers minimize taxi use.

• Pros: Comfortable, convenient, door-to-door service, eco-friendly.

• Cons: Higher cost; fewer seats require advance booking.

• Tip: Book Vu Linh for personal screens, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

3. How to Book Bus or Limousine Tickets

Booking is easy through online platforms, operator websites, or in-person counters, with advance reservations recommended for limousines and peak seasons (Tet in January–February, summer June–August).

• Online Platforms:

  • Websites: www.vexere.com, www.baolau.com, www.traveloka.com, www.12go.asia for price comparisons and e-tickets.

  • Apps: Futa Bus, Vexere, Traveloka; pay via Visa/Mastercard or mobile apps.

  • Tips: Book 1–2 weeks in advance for limousines; check e-ticket policies (some require printed tickets).

• Operator Websites/Offices:

  • Futa: www.futabus.vn or Mien Tay Bus Station counters.

  • Thanh Buoi: www.thanhbuoi.vn or 266 Le Hong Phong, HCMC.

  • Vu Linh: www.vulinhlimousine.vn or 354 Ly Thuong Kiet, HCMC.

• Travel Agencies:

  • Legend Travel Group: Bundle bus tickets with eco-tours for discounts. Contact sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222.

  • Benefits: Agents handle cancellations, transfers, and tour coordination; fees $2–$5/ticket (60,000–150,000 VND).

• At Bus Stations:

  • Mien Tay Bus Station (HCMC) or Can Tho Central Bus Station; cash payments, no advance booking needed for standard buses.

• Sustainability: E-tickets reduce paper waste; book through agencies for eco-tour bundles.

• Tip: Use Vexere for real-time schedules, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

• Distance: 169 km from HCMC to Can Tho.

• Total Costs (One-Way, per person):

  • Standard Bus: $6–$12 (180,000–360,000 VND).

  • Limousine: $12–$20 (360,000–600,000 VND).

  • Transfers: HCMC to Mien Tay (taxi $3–$5 or 90,000–150,000 VND); Can Tho shuttle (free with Futa/Thanh Buoi).

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); carry small notes (50,000–500,000 VND) for vendors or taxis.

• Internet: Tourist SIM ($6–$10 or 180,000–300,000 VND for 30 days, 1–2 GB/day) for booking and navigation; free Wi-Fi on most buses.

• Safety: Secure valuables; arrive 15 minutes early; check traffic updates for rainy season (June–November).

• Climate: Dry season (December–May) for smoother roads; rainy season (June–November) may cause minor delays, bring rain gear ($2–$5 or 60,000–150,000 VND).

• Dry Season (December–May): Sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) ensures clear roads and timely buses; ideal for March–May’s mild temperatures (25–32°C or 77–89.6°F).

• Rainy Season (June–November): Cooler temperatures (22–30°C or 71.6–86°F) and lush scenery; September–November offers fewer showers but requires rain gear.

• Daily Timing: Early morning (5:00–8:00 AM) or overnight (8:00 PM–11:00 PM) to avoid HCMC traffic and arrive for Cai Rang market (5:30 AM).

• Tip: Travel in March for optimal weather, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

• Book Early: Reserve limousine tickets 1–2 weeks in advance, especially for December–May or Tet; standard buses can be booked same-day at Mien Tay.

• Choose Eco-Friendly Operators: Futa and Vu Linh use fuel-efficient vehicles; book e-tickets to reduce paper waste.

• Pack Smart: Bring a sweater for air-conditioned buses, bottled water ($0.50 or 15,000 VND), and snacks ($1–$3 or 30,000–90,000 VND); reusable items minimize waste.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Mien Tay Bus Station and Ninh Kieu Wharf; save operator contacts for shuttles.

• Safety: Secure valuables; confirm shuttle pick-up with operators; avoid late-night arrivals in rainy season.

• Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to drivers; respect fellow passengers’ space.

• Health: Carry hand sanitizer; apply mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 60,000–150,000 VND) for rest stops.

Enhance your bus journey with our sustainable Can Tho tours:

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

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

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tay Do Night Market, Ong Temple via bicycle. Includes snacks and guide.

• Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Ha Dien/Thuong Dien Ceremony, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Can Tho Museum via electric taxi. Includes lunch and guide.

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

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Markets, homestays ($15–$35/night or 375,000–1,050,000 VND), orchards, festivals via eco-transport. Includes meals, activities, and guide.

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 City, the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta, 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City, is easily accessible by bus or limousine, offering affordable, scenic travel with modern comforts, drawing thousands yearly. Choose Futa’s sleeper buses (4–5h, $7–$12, 175,000–300,000 VND) from Mien Tay Bus Station for budget-friendly rides or Vu Linh’s VIP limousines (3.5–4h, $15–$25, 375,000–625,000 VND) for added luxury. These options support Can Tho’s sustainable tourism vision with fuel-efficient vehicles. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure a seamless, eco-conscious Can Tho Travel experience, blending transport with visits to Cai Rang Floating Market ($5–$15 boat tour, 125,000–375,000 VND), Binh Thuy Ancient House, and culinary delights like bánh xèo ($1–$2, 25,000–50,000 VND). Contact Legend Travel Group at www.legendtravelgroup.com, info@legendtravelgroup.com, or (+84) 825862222 to browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to discover Can Tho’s Delta wonders? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable Mekong adventure!

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:

• Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho Travel Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, baolau.com, canthorivertour.com, scootersaigontour.com, tripadvisor.com