Discover the top 10 must-visit destinations in Can Tho City, from Cai Rang Floating Market to Ong Temple. Explore costs, eco-friendly tours, and book sustainable adventures with Legend Travel Group!
Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, is a must-visit destination brimming with cultural, natural, and culinary treasures. 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 sites, and lush landscapes. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho offers unforgettable experiences, from bustling Cai Rang Floating Market to the serene Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Monastery, all accessible through sustainable tourism initiatives under the “Green Delta” program. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours provide immersive, responsible ways to explore these unmissable destinations—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 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 discover 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 Ancient House. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its expanded region.
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 sprawling 1,409 km² area. Just 169 km from Ho Chi Minh City, it’s a gateway to the Delta’s waterways, markets, and cultural landmarks. Can Tho’s tropical monsoon climate, with a dry season (December–April, 25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), creates a lush backdrop for exploration. From the vibrant Cai Rang Floating Market to the historic Ong Temple, Can Tho’s destinations reflect its rich Vietnamese-Khmer heritage and commitment to sustainable tourism.
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: Emphasizes eco-friendly tourism with green transport and local support.
Tip: Start your journey with a sunrise boat tour to Cai Rang, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Here are the top 10 unmissable destinations in Can Tho City, complete with costs, eco-friendly options, and sustainable tour recommendations to ensure a memorable, responsible visit.
Overview: Located on Cai Rang River, Cai Rang Ward, 6 km from Ninh Kieu Wharf, Cai Rang Floating Market is the Mekong Delta’s largest wholesale market, recognized as National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2016. Vibrant boats trade fruits ($0.50–$3/kg or 12,500–75,000 VND), vegetables, and goods, with vendors displaying wares on “cay beo” bamboo poles.
Why Visit: Experience the Delta’s bustling riverine trade, sample floating Bánh Xèo ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), and capture sunrise (5:30–6:30 AM) for stunning photos.
Cost: Private electric sampan $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 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, supporting Delta conservation.
Hours: 4:00 AM–10:00 AM, busiest 5:30–7:00 AM.
Tip: Book an early morning tour for peak activity, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Situated at Nhon Ai, Phong Dien Town, Phong Dien Ward, 17 km from Ninh Kieu, Phong Dien Floating Market is a smaller, retail-focused market with 45–60 sampans trading fruits, crafts, and household goods. Its serene canals offer a quieter, authentic experience.
Why Visit: Enjoy a laid-back market vibe, taste local hủ tiếu ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND), and explore the “bẹo hàng” bamboo pole tradition.
Cost: Private electric sampan $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–4 people, 2–3 hours); group tour $6–$12 (150,000–300,000 VND per person).
Eco-Friendly Option: Electric boats minimize environmental impact.
Hours: 4:00 AM–8:00 AM, busiest 5:30–7:00 AM.
Tip: Combine with Cai Rang for a full market experience, included in our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Located on Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, Ninh Kieu Wharf is Can Tho’s scenic riverside hub, featuring a park, Uncle Ho statue, and a lively night market. It’s a cultural landmark along the Hậu River.
Why Visit: Capture the sunset (5:30–6:30 PM), enjoy street food like Bánh Cống ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), and visit during the Tet flower market (mid-December lunar calendar) for festive vibes.
Cost: Free entry; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); boat tours $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Walk from central hotels or use electric taxis ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: Open 24/7; best 4:00 PM–10:00 PM.
Tip: Stroll the night market for souvenirs, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Overview: At 335 Lo Vong Cung, Phong Dien Ward, 12 km from Ninh Kieu, this 50,000 m² eco-tourism village offers orchards, traditional crafts, and folk games. Established in 1996, it’s a model of sustainable tourism, recognized as one of Vietnam’s Top 100 Impressive Destinations in 2013.
Why Visit: Pick fruits like rambutans ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), try rice paper-making ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), and enjoy Delta dishes ($3–$10 or 75,000–250,000 VND).
Cost: Entry $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND); activities $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle to the village ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or use electric boats.
Hours: 7:00 AM–8:00 PM daily.
Tip: Visit in June–July for peak fruit season, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Overview: Located at My Nhon Hamlet, My Khanh Commune, Phong Dien Ward, 15 km from Ninh Kieu, this 3.8-hectare Zen monastery is Southwest Vietnam’s largest, built in 2014 in Lý-Trần dynasty style.
Why Visit: Meditate in serene gardens, admire intricate Buddha statues, and explore Trần dynasty heritage.
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle or use electric taxis ($5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND).
Hours: 5:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.
Tip: Attend morning meditation (5:30 AM), included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Overview: Situated at 32 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, 200 m from Ninh Kieu Wharf, Ong Temple (Quan Công Pagoda) is a 1894 Chinese-Vietnamese temple honoring Guan Yu, recognized as a national cultural relic in 1993.
Why Visit: Marvel at Chinese architecture, giant incense coils, and vibrant festivals like Quan Công’s Birthday (July–August, lunar calendar).
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); incense $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Walk from Ninh Kieu Wharf or use bicycles.
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily; extended during festivals.
Tip: Visit during Tet for dragon dances, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Overview: Located in Binh Thoi Hamlet, Thuan An Ward, Thot Not Ward, 52 km from Ninh Kieu, this 2-hectare sanctuary, established in 1983, hosts over 300,000 birds across 20 species, including white cattle egrets and painted storks.
Why Visit: Observe flocks at dawn or dusk (5:30 AM–7:00 AM, 4:30 PM–6:00 PM) from a 7m observation tower; supports conservation efforts.
Cost: Entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Use electric boats or eco-taxis ($15–$20 or 375,000–500,000 VND).
Hours: 6:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Tip: Visit in November–February for nesting season, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).
Overview: At 26/1A Bui Huu Nghia Street, Binh Thuy Ward, 6 km from Ninh Kieu, this 1870 French-Vietnamese house, rebuilt in the early 20th century, is a rare colonial relic used for Duong family worship and film settings.
Why Visit: Explore antique furniture, orchid gardens, and French architecture; learn about Delta history.
Cost: Entry $1 (25,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Cycle from Ninh Kieu ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM daily.
Tip: Combine with Binh Thuy Communal House, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
Overview: Located at Can Tho International Trade Fair Centre, Cai Khe Ward, 2 km from Ninh Kieu, Tay Do Night Market is a bustling 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.
Why Visit: Experience Can Tho’s nightlife, taste Delta specialties, and shop for sustainable goods.
Cost: Free entry; food and souvenirs $1–$10 (25,000–250,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Use electric taxis or walk from Ninh Kieu ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).
Hours: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM daily.
Tip: Bargain politely for crafts, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).
Overview: At 1 Hoa Binh Boulevard, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, 1 km from Ninh Kieu Wharf, Can Tho Museum, established in 1976 and upgraded in 2000, is one of the Delta’s largest, housing over 5,000 artifacts showcasing Vietnamese-Khmer history.
Why Visit: Explore exhibits on Delta agriculture, crafts, and colonial history; ideal for cultural insights.
Cost: Free entry; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); guided tour $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).
Eco-Friendly Option: Walk or cycle from Ninh Kieu.
Hours: 8:00 AM–11:00 AM, 1:00 PM–5:00 PM, Tuesday–Sunday.
Tip: Visit with a guide for historical context, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).
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: $15–$30 (375,000–750,000 VND, 2–3 hours).
Accessibility: Urban sites (e.g., Ninh Kieu Wharf) are accessible; boat-based markets are not wheelchair-friendly.
Climate: Dry season (December–April) for sunny exploration; rainy season (May–November) for lush scenery.
Dry Season (December–April): 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 (May–November): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) and lush landscapes; abundant fruits enhance market visits. Bring rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Festivals: Tet (January–February), Ha Dien (May–June), Thuong Dien (December) for cultural immersion.
Tip: Visit in March–April for mild weather or September–November for fewer crowds; check AccuWeather for updates.
Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for December–April or festivals.
Sustainability: Support local vendors, use electric boats or bikes, and avoid plastic waste with reusable bottles ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) to align with Can Tho’s green goals.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly for temples (long pants, covered shoulders); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); respect market vendors.
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; save Ninh Kieu Wharf as a landmark.
Health: Carry mosquito repellent ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND), SPF 50+ sunscreen ($3–$7 or 75,000–175,000 VND), and bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Our sustainable tours cover Can Tho’s top destinations with eco-friendly transport:
Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang and Phong Dien Floating Markets, canal cruise via electric sampan. Includes guide and breakfast.
Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Cai Rang market, Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tay Do Night Market, cooking class. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.
Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ninh Kieu Wharf, Ong Temple, Can Tho Museum, Tay Do Night Market via bicycles. Includes snacks and guide.
Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Binh Thuy Ancient House, Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Monastery, Can Tho Museum. Includes eco-transfers and guide.
Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80/person): Tra Su Bird Sanctuary, Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary, My Khanh Eco-Village via electric boat. Includes transfers and guide.
Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): All top destinations, 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
Can Tho City, a vibrant gateway to the Mekong Delta located 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City, enchants with its blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and sustainable tourism, drawing millions yearly. From the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, where vendors trade fruits and phở on the Hau River, to the serene Ong Temple with its ornate Khmer architecture, these top 10 spots showcase the Delta’s soul. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours ensure a responsible, immersive experience, combining iconic attractions with green travel practices like low-emission boat tours and community-led conservation, guiding you through Binh Thuy Ancient House, Ninh Kieu Wharf, and My Khanh Eco-Tourism Village. Don’t miss out—browse our curated tours and book your eco-friendly adventure today!
Ready to explore Can Tho’s Mekong Delta gems? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable journey through 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 Attractions Information: vietnam.travel, mekong-delta-tours.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn, tnktravel.com, vinpearl.com
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