Travel from Hanoi to Can Tho City: Transport Options, Costs & Eco-Friendly Tours

Traveling from Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, to Can Tho City, the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta, is a journey from urban vibrancy to serene riverine beauty. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its iconic Cai Rang Floating Market, lush orchards, and cultural landmarks. Known as “Tây Đô” or the “Western Capital,” Can Tho is approximately 1,200 km by air or 1,880 km by land from Hanoi, offering diverse transport options like flights, trains, and buses. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, choosing eco-conscious transport and tours supports local communities and preserves the Delta’s environment. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours provide seamless, responsible ways to explore 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 eco-friendly transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the Delta’s cultural and natural 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 hassle-free 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 Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho is easily accessible via modern transport networks.

The journey from Hanoi to Can Tho City spans approximately 1,200 km by air or 1,880 km by land, with travel times ranging from 2 hours by plane to 33–36 hours by bus or train. 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), makes flying the most reliable option, though trains and buses offer scenic, budget-friendly alternatives. Key transport hubs include Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Hanoi Railway Station, and various bus terminals, connecting to Can Tho International Airport (VCA) or Ninh Kieu Wharf. Sustainable travel options, such as eco-conscious airlines, modern sleeper buses, and guided tours, align with Can Tho’s commitment to green tourism, ensuring a responsible visit to its vibrant Delta attractions.

Key Transport Options:

• Plane: Fastest (2h 10m direct or 3.5–5h via HCMC), with airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways.

• Train: Scenic but slow (33–36h via HCMC), with sleeper cabins for comfort.

• Bus: Budget-friendly (33–36h), with modern sleeper buses like Futa Bus Lines.

• Sustainability: Eco-friendly flights, buses, and tours minimize environmental impact.

Tip: Fly direct for speed or take a train/bus for scenery, paired with an eco-tour like our Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75).

Travelers have three main transport options to reach Can Tho from Hanoi: plane, train, and bus. Below are detailed guides for each, including updated costs, schedules, and eco-friendly tips.

1. By Plane

Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel the ~1,200 km from Hanoi to Can Tho, with direct flights from Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) to Can Tho International Airport (VCA) or connecting flights via Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN).

• Direct Flights:

  • Airlines: Vietnam Airlines (4-star, reliable), VietJet Air (low-cost), Bamboo Airways (hybrid).

  • Flight Duration: ~2 hours 10 minutes.

  • Frequency: 5–8 daily flights, from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

  • Cost:

    • Vietnam Airlines: One-way $50–$120 (1,250,000–3,000,000 VND); round-trip $100–$240 (2,500,000–6,000,000 VND), includes 20 kg checked baggage.

    • VietJet Air: One-way $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND); round-trip $60–$160 (1,500,000–4,000,000 VND), 7 kg carry-on, checked baggage $10–$20 (250,000–500,000 VND) for 15 kg.

    • Bamboo Airways: One-way $40–$100 (1,000,000–2,500,000 VND); round-trip $80–$200 (2,000,000–5,000,000 VND), 7 kg carry-on, checked baggage $12–$25 (300,000–625,000 VND) for 20 kg.

  • Sustainability: Vietnam Airlines and Bamboo Airways use fuel-efficient Airbus A321/A320neo aircraft; VietJet offers digital check-in for paperless travel.

• Connecting Flights via HCMC:

  • Route: Hanoi–HCMC (1h), layover 1–2h, HCMC–Can Tho (50m).

  • Total Duration: 3.5–5 hours.

  • Cost: Round-trip $100–$320 (2,500,000–8,000,000 VND); Hanoi–HCMC $30–$100 (750,000–2,500,000 VND), HCMC–Can Tho $20–$60 (500,000–1,500,000 VND).

  • Pros: More flight options; cheaper during promotions.

  • Cons: Longer travel time; risk of delays.

• Booking:

  • Online: Airline websites (www.vietnamairlines.com, www.vietjetair.com, www.bambooairways.com), Skyscanner, or Traveloka. Book 2–3 months in advance for 40% savings; avoid Tet (January–February) and summer (June–August).

  • Travel Agencies: Legend Travel Group for bundled flight-tour packages (agency fee $5–$15 or 125,000–375,000 VND).

  • Check-In: Online 24h prior or at Noi Bai Terminal 1 counters; arrive 1h before departure.

• Ground Transfers:

  • Hanoi to Noi Bai (30 km): Taxi $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND, 45 min); shuttle bus $2 (50,000 VND, 1h).

  • Can Tho VCA to Ninh Kieu (8 km): Taxi $5–$8 (125,000–200,000 VND, 20 min); shuttle bus $0.50 (12,500 VND, 30 min). Use Mai Linh or Xanh SM (electric) taxis for reliability.

• Pros: Fast, reliable, frequent flights; eco-options available.

• Cons: Higher cost; limited direct flights compared to HCMC routes.

• Tip: Book direct flights with Vietnam Airlines for comfort, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

2. By Train

Traveling by train from Hanoi to Can Tho involves a transfer in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a scenic but time-intensive journey through Vietnam’s landscapes. The Reunification Express connects Hanoi to HCMC, followed by a bus or taxi to Can Tho.

• Route:

  • Hanoi to HCMC: Depart Hanoi Railway Station (120 Le Duan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi) to HCMC’s Saigon Station (1 Nguyen Thong, District 3).

  • HCMC to Can Tho: Bus (3–4h) or taxi (3h) from Saigon Station to Ninh Kieu Wharf.

• Duration:

  • Hanoi–HCMC: 33–36 hours.

  • HCMC–Can Tho: 3–4 hours by bus/taxi.

  • Total: 36–40 hours.

• Train Classes (Hanoi–HCMC):

  • Hard Seat: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND), basic, not recommended for long trips.

  • Soft Seat: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND), cushioned, air-conditioned.

  • Hard Sleeper (6 berths): $35–$50 (875,000–1,250,000 VND), basic bedding.

  • Soft Sleeper (4 berths): $50–$70 (1,250,000–1,750,000 VND), comfortable, air-conditioned.

• HCMC to Can Tho:

  • Bus: Futa Bus Lines or Thanh Buoi from Mien Tay Bus Station (4 km from Saigon Station, taxi $3 or 75,000 VND). Cost $8–$12 (200,000–300,000 VND), 3–4h, sleeper seats.

  • Taxi: $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND), 3h, use Xanh SM (electric).

• Total Cost: Round-trip $46–$164 (1,150,000–4,100,000 VND) for soft sleeper + bus; add $160–$240 (4,000,000–6,000,000 VND) for taxi.

• Booking:

  • Train: Vietnam Railways (www.dsvn.vn), Baolau, or Hanoi Station counters; book 1–2 months in advance for sleepers.

  • Bus: Futa (www.futabus.vn), Thanh Buoi (www.thanhbuoi.vn), or Mien Tay Station.

• Sustainability: Trains and sleeper buses have lower emissions than flights; Xanh SM taxis are electric.

• Pros: Scenic rice paddies, cultural experience, budget-friendly.

• Cons: Long duration; requires HCMC transfer; sleepers sell out fast.

• Tip: Book a soft sleeper for comfort, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

3. By Bus

Buses offer a budget-friendly, direct option from Hanoi to Can Tho, with modern sleeper buses providing comfort for the long journey. Departures are from Hanoi’s southern bus terminals like Nuoc Ngam or Giap Bat, arriving at Can Tho’s Ninh Kieu Wharf or central bus station.

• Duration: 33–36 hours, including rest stops (every 4–6h).

• Bus Companies:

  • Futa Bus Lines: Modern sleeper buses with reclining beds, Wi-Fi, blankets, and water.

  • Thanh Buoi: Comfortable, reliable, with onboard toilets.

  • Hoang Long: Budget-friendly with frequent departures.

• Cost: One-way $30–$45 (750,000–1,125,000 VND); round-trip $60–$90 (1,500,000–2,250,000 VND).

• Departure Points:

  • Hanoi: Nuoc Ngam Bus Station (1 Ngoc Hoi, Hoang Liet, 10 km from center, taxi $5–$8 or 125,000–200,000 VND) or Giap Bat (6 Giai Phong, 6 km, taxi $3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND).

  • Can Tho: Ninh Kieu Wharf or Can Tho Central Bus Station (Hung Vuong, Ninh Kieu).

• Schedule: Departures 5:00 AM–8:00 PM; overnight buses preferred for comfort (e.g., 6:00 PM Hanoi to 6:00 AM Can Tho).

• Booking: Online via www.futabus.vn, www.baolau.com, or at bus stations; book 1–2 weeks in advance for peak seasons (Tet, summer).

• Sustainability: Modern buses use fuel-efficient engines; shared transport lowers per-person emissions.

• Pros: Direct, affordable, comfortable sleepers; no HCMC transfer.

• Cons: Long duration; crowded during festivals; limited legroom for taller travelers.

• Tip: Choose Futa for reliability, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

• Distance: ~1,200 km by air, 1,880 km by land.

• Total Costs (Round-Trip, per person):

  • Plane (Direct): $60–$240 (1,500,000–6,000,000 VND) + transfers $15–$23 (375,000–575,000 VND).

  • Plane (via HCMC): $100–$320 (2,500,000–8,000,000 VND) + transfers $15–$23 (375,000–575,000 VND).

  • Train + Bus: $46–$164 (1,150,000–4,100,000 VND) + transfers $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND).

  • Bus: $60–$90 (1,500,000–2,250,000 VND) + transfers $10–$18 (250,000–450,000 VND).

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

• Internet: Tourist SIM ($6–$10 or 150,000–250,000 VND for 30 days, 1–2 GB/day) for booking and navigation; free Wi-Fi at airports/stations.

• Visa: E-visa ($25 or 625,000 VND, apply at vietnamvisa.gov.vn); passport valid for 6 months.

• Sustainability: Choose fuel-efficient airlines, modern buses, or electric taxis; offset emissions via airline programs.

• Health and Safety: Carry hand sanitizer; secure valuables at stations; check weather for rainy season delays.

Enhance your journey with our sustainable Can Tho tours, seamlessly paired with your travel:

• 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 ($10–$35/night or 250,000–875,000 VND), orchards, festivals via mixed 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!

Traveling from Hanoi to Can Tho City offers diverse options, from swift direct flights to scenic train and bus journeys, each showcasing Vietnam’s vibrant landscapes and cultures. Whether you prioritize speed, budget, or scenery, choosing eco-conscious transport and tours ensures a responsible visit to Can Tho’s Mekong Delta wonders. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours provide an authentic, seamless experience, blending cultural immersion with green travel practices. Don’t miss out—browse our curated tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to explore Can Tho’s riverine heart? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on a sustainable Mekong Delta journey!

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: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group