Top 10 Activities in Can Tho City: Must-Do Mekong Delta Experiences

Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a treasure trove of cultural, culinary, and natural experiences, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking authenticity. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its iconic floating markets, historic landmarks, and lush rural landscapes. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho offers activities ranging from sunrise boat tours to savoring local delicacies like Bánh Xèo, all while embracing sustainable tourism under the “Green Delta” initiative. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours provide immersive, responsible ways to experience Can Tho’s charm—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 seamless journey. 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 Binh Thuy Communal House. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its vibrant offerings.

Located on the Hậu River, Can Tho City is the Mekong Delta’s largest urban center, with a population of 1.6 million and a natural area of 1,409 km². Its strategic position, 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City, makes it a gateway to the Delta’s 12 provinces. Can Tho’s tropical climate features a dry season (January–May, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and a rainy season (June–December, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), ideal for year-round travel. Famous for Cai Rang Floating Market, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and a dense network of canals, Can Tho blends urban modernity with rural charm, offering activities that showcase its cultural, culinary, and natural diversity.

Key Highlights:

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

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

• Sustainability: Committed to eco-friendly tourism with green transport and local vendor support.

Tip: Start your adventure with a sunrise boat tour, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

Here are the top 10 activities to immerse yourself in Can Tho’s vibrant Mekong Delta culture, complete with costs and eco-friendly options.

1. Explore Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets

Navigate the iconic Cai Rang Floating Market (6 km from Ninh Kieu), the Delta’s largest wholesale hub, or the serene Phong Dien Floating Market (17 km), a retail gem. Witness vibrant trade, sample fruits ($0.50–$3 or 12,500–75,000 VND per kg), and enjoy floating breakfasts like Bánh Xèo ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).

• Cost: Private sampan $12–$25 (300,000–625,000 VND, 2–4 people, 2–3 hours); group tour $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND per person).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric sampans reduce emissions.

• Hours: 4:00 AM–10:00 AM (Cai Rang), 4:00 AM–8:00 AM (Phong Dien); busiest 5:30–7:00 AM.

• Tip: Book a sunrise tour for peak market energy, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

2. Savor Mekong Delta Cuisine

Indulge in Can Tho’s culinary triumphs, like Bánh Xèo (crispy pancake, $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), Cong Cake ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), or salt-fried rock crab ($2–$6 or 50,000–150,000 VND). Visit Ninh Kieu Night Market or Đề Thám Street for street food or riverside restaurants for dishes like mangrove apple hotpot ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Cost: Street food $1–$4 (25,000–100,000 VND); restaurant meals $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Support vendors using local, sustainable ingredients.

• Tip: Try Bánh Xèo at Quán Bánh Xèo 7 Tới, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

3. Experience a Private Sampan Tour

Cruise Can Tho’s canals on a private sampan, visiting floating markets, orchards, or noodle factories. Customize your route to stop at boat houses or riverside eateries, immersing in the Delta’s riverine lifestyle.

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

• Eco-Friendly Option: Electric sampans minimize environmental impact.

• Departure: Ninh Kieu Wharf or Cai Rang Pier, 4:30 AM–5:00 AM or 4:00 PM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Opt for a sunset canal tour, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

4. Shop and Dine at Tay Do Night Market

Located on Cach Mang Thang 8 Street, Cai Khe Ward, Tay Do Night Market is a vibrant hub for souvenirs ($2–$10 or 50,000–250,000 VND), street food like grilled pork rolls ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), and local crafts. Experience Can Tho’s lively nightlife and authentic community vibe.

• Cost: Free entry; food and souvenirs $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Support local artisans for sustainable purchases.

• Hours: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Bargain politely and try local snacks, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

5. Visit Can Tho Grand Prison

Explore Can Tho Grand Prison (Khám Lớn Cần Thơ) at 8 Ngo Gia Tu Street, Ninh Kieu Ward, a National Historical Relic built in 1876 by the French to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries. Its haunting exhibits offer insights into Vietnam’s colonial past.

• Cost: Entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Walk or cycle from Ninh Kieu (1 km).

• Hours: 7:30 AM–11:00 AM, 1:30 PM–5:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Join a historical tour for context, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

6. Catch the Sunset at Ninh Kieu Wharf

Located along Hai Ba Trung Street, Ninh Kieu Wharf is a scenic riverside spot with a park, Uncle Ho statue, and bustling night market. Watch the sunset (5:30–6:30 PM) over the Hậu River, capturing trading boats and vibrant fish.

• Cost: Free; street food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Walk from central hotels or use electric taxis.

• Hours: Open 24/7; best 4:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Tip: Enjoy a riverside coffee ($0.50–$1), included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

7. Participate in Sacred Ceremonies

Join the Thuong Dien Ceremony (14th–16th of 11th lunar month, December) or Ha Dien Ceremony (12th–14th of 4th lunar month, May–June) at Binh Thuy Communal House, Binh Thuy Ward, to honor the God of Land. Experience rituals like Xay Chầu and folk games like boat races or sticky rice contests.

• Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); games $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle to Binh Thuy (6 km) or use electric taxis.

• Tip: Attend on the main ritual day (15th or 13th), included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

8. Try Rat Meat for a Culinary Adventure

Taste field rat meat (thịt chuột đồng), a traditional Delta delicacy, prepared as grilled skewers, sour soup, or curry ($2–$6 or 50,000–150,000 VND). Sourced from rice paddies, it’s safe and surprisingly flavorful, akin to lean chicken.

• Cost: $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) per serving at Tran Phu Night Market or Đề Thám Street.

• Eco-Friendly Option: Support vendors using local, sustainable sources.

• Tip: Start with grilled rat at Quán Lẩu Đồng Quê, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

9. Stay at a Local Homestay

Immerse in Can Tho’s authentic lifestyle by staying at a homestay, where hosts treat you like family, offering home-cooked meals ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND) and cultural activities like cooking or fishing. Popular options include Green Village Homestay in Cai Rang.

• Cost: $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND), including breakfast; activities $3–$7 (75,000–175,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Choose homestays with sustainable practices like solar power or organic farming.

• Tip: Book a homestay for a cultural immersion, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

10. Tour a Cacao Farm

Visit Muoi Cuong Cacao Farm (30 minutes by boat from Ninh Kieu) to learn about sustainable cacao production, from bean to chocolate. Participate in hands-on workshops to make cacao products ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).

• Cost: Entry $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND); boat transfer $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Option: Use electric boats and support organic farming.

• Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.

• Tip: Combine with a sampan tour, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

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

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

• Transport:

  • Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

  • Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi/Grab: $3–$8 (75,000–200,000 VND) within 1–15 km.

  • Electric Boat: $12–$25 (300,000–625,000 VND, 2–3 hours).

• Accessibility: Most urban sites (e.g., Ninh Kieu Wharf) are accessible; boat-based activities like markets are not wheelchair-friendly.

• Climate: Dry season (January–May) for sunny exploration; rainy season (June–December) for lush scenery.

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

• Rainy Season (June–December): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and abundant produce; bring rain gear for outdoor activities.

• Festivals: Thuong Dien (December), Ha Dien (May–June), Tet (January–February) for cultural immersion.

• Tip: Plan early morning market tours and evening market visits; 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 or festivals.

• Sustainability: Support local vendors, use electric boats or bikes, and avoid plastic waste to align with Can Tho’s green goals.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for temples and ceremonies (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you).

• Safety: Secure valuables at markets; wear life jackets on boats; check weather for outdoor plans.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu, Cai Rang, and Phong Dien Wards.

• Health: Carry mosquito repellent, SPF 50+ sunscreen, and bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

Our sustainable tours offer curated experiences across Can Tho’s top activities:

• 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): Bánh Xèo tasting, Cai Rang market, cooking class, night market. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

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

• Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Thuong Dien/Ha Dien Ceremony, Binh Thuy Ancient House, cacao farm. Includes eco-transfers and guide.

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

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Markets, homestays ($10–$25/night), festivals, cacao farm. 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 City, the vibrant gateway to the Mekong Delta, located 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City, captivates with a blend of cultural immersion, culinary delights, and natural beauty, drawing thousands yearly. Explore the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, savor crispy Bánh Xèo ($1.50–$3, 37,500–75,000 VND) at local eateries, or join sacred festivals like the Ong Pagoda Festival (lunar January), showcasing the region’s riverine soul. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Toursensure a sustainable, authentic Can Tho Travel experience, combining eco-friendly practices like low-impact boat tours and community-led homestays with visits to iconic sites such as Binh Thuy Ancient House, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and Cai Khe Market. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to dive into Can Tho’s Mekong Delta magic? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and create unforgettable memories in Vietnam’s riverine heart!

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:

• Can Tho Activities Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, mekong-delta-tours.com, vinpearl.com, tnktravel.com, canthopromotion.vn