How to Travel to Can Tho City: Your Gateway to the Mekong Delta

Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a must-visit destination along the Hau River, attracting millions with its iconic Cai Rang Floating Market, lush orchards, and tranquil canals. Following the administrative merger with Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho is now Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, blending urban buzz with rural serenity. Known for its “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, the city offers eco-friendly transport and immersive cultural experiences. Whether you’re drawn to vibrant markets or serene waterways, Legend Travel Group’s curated eco-tours ensure a seamless journey. Start planning—book a tour via the links throughout this guide

As a leading local tour operator, Legend Travel Group 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 bring the Mekong’s stories to life. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu and Cai Rang 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 make travel hassle-free. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore with purpose!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the administrative hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, streamlining governance. Enhanced by sustainable infrastructure—cycling networks, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho ensures easy access to its attractions.

Can Tho is highly accessible from major cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, as well as international hubs. Here’s how to get there:

From Ho Chi Minh City (170 km, ~3–4 hours)

By Bus

Buses are a budget-friendly and popular option, departing from Mien Tay Bus Station (395 Kinh Duong Vuong, Binh Tan District). Luxury sleeper or express buses offer comfort for the 3–4-hour journey.

• Cost: $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).

• Popular Operators: Futa Bus Lines (Phuong Trang), Mai Linh Express, Vu Linh Limousine.

• Tip: Book online via Klook or 12GoAsia 1–2 weeks in advance for peak seasons (January–May). Use our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400) for a guided bus transfer with stops at key attractions.

By Private Car/Van

Ideal for groups or those seeking flexibility, private transfers offer a scenic 3.5-hour ride.

• Cost: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND) for 4–6 passengers.

• Tip: Arrange through Legend Travel Group (+84 825862222) for eco-friendly vehicles. Included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

By Motorbike

For adventurers, renting a motorbike offers freedom to explore rural routes.

• Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for rentals; fuel ~$5 (125,000 VND).

• Route: Take National Highway 1A for a 4–5-hour ride.

• Tip: Start at 5:00 AM to avoid traffic and carry a valid license. Helmets are mandatory.

From Hanoi (1,880 km, ~34 hours by land, 2–3 hours by air)

By Air

The fastest option, flights from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) land at Can Tho International Airport (VCA), 10 km from Ninh Kieu.

• Cost:

  • Vietnam Airlines: $100–$180 (2,500,000–4,500,000 VND, round-trip).

  • Vietjet Air: $70–$140 (1,750,000–3,500,000 VND, round-trip).

  • Bamboo Airways: $80–$160 (2,000,000–4,000,000 VND, round-trip).

• Duration: 2 hours 10 minutes.

• Ground Transfer: Taxis or Grab from VCA to the city center cost $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND).

• Tip: Book 3–5 weeks in advance for deals, especially January–May. Our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75) includes airport transfers.

By Bus

Long-distance sleeper buses are a budget option, though the journey is lengthy.

• Cost: $40–$60 (1,000,000–1,500,000 VND).

• Duration: 30–34 hours, with stops.

• Popular Operators: Hoang Long, The Sinh Tourist.

• Tip: Opt for overnight buses to save time. Book via Legend Travel Group for bundled tours with transfers.

By Train

Trains from Hanoi Railway Station (120 Le Duan) to Ho Chi Minh City (17–20 hours), followed by a bus or car to Can Tho (3–4 hours), offer a scenic but slower option.

• Cost: $40–$80 (1,000,000–2,000,000 VND) for train; $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) for bus/car.

• Tip: Book soft-sleeper cabins for comfort. Combine with our Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65) for a guided transfer from HCMC.

From International Destinations

Can Tho International Airport (VCA) serves select routes from Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul.

• Cost: $250–$550 (round-trip, e.g., Bangkok).

• Tip: Fly into Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) for more options, then take a bus or private transfer. Our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400) includes international airport pickups.

Once in Can Tho, explore sustainably with these options:

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND) for city tours or orchard visits.

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for rural areas like Tra Su.

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$6/trip (75,000–150,000 VND) within 1–5 km.

• Electric Boats: $10–$20/hour (250,000–500,000 VND) for canal or floating market tours.

Tip: Download the Grab or Xanh SM app for transparent pricing. For eco-friendly travel, choose bicycles or electric boats, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

The dry season (January–May) offers warm, sunny weather (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F), ideal for boat tours and outdoor exploration. The rainy season (June–December) brings cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and occasional showers, but fewer crowds and lower prices (10–20% off).

• Peak Season (January–May): Book transport and tours 3–5 weeks in advance for events like the Cai Rang Floating Market Festival (April).

• Shoulder Season (March–April, November): Mild weather, fewer tourists.

• Tip: Check AccuWeather for updates, especially in September–October.

• Book Early: Reserve flights, buses, or tours via Legend Travel Group (+84 938 987 654) or Klook, especially for January–May.

• Navigation: Use offline maps (Maps.me) or the Can Tho Bus app. Ninh Kieu is bike-friendly.

• Sustainability: Opt for bicycles, electric boats, or eco-taxis to support Can Tho’s green initiatives.

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; avoid canal edges during rain.

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

• Health: Carry mosquito repellent and stay hydrated.

Our sustainable tours make getting to and exploring Can Tho effortless:

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

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

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

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

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): All attractions, homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes transfers, meals, activities.

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

Can Tho City, the Mekong Delta’s vibrant hub, is easily accessible by air, bus, car, or motorbike, offering something for every traveler. From the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market to serene canals, Can Tho blends culture and nature. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure your journey is sustainable and seamless, guiding you through this delta gem with eco-friendly practices. Don’t wait—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to explore the Mekong’s magic? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into Can Tho’s vibrant allure!

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