CAN THO ➔ MUST SEE ATTRACTIONS & ACTIVITIES

Can Tho is home to Mekong Delta’s most visited floating markets and the largest city in the Mekong region, Can Tho is a buzzing town with a lively waterfront and a colourful mix of narrow back streets and wide boulevards that make for some rewarding exploration – especially after a few days traveling in the wilds. As the political, economic, educational, cultural and transportation centre of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho hums with activity; while its access to nearby floating markets make it a major draw for tourists, who come here to boat along the myriad canals and rivers leading out of town.

Can Tho: Must-see attractions & activities for your itinerary

Cai Rang Floating Market

Cai Rang Floating Market, nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta and 6km from Can Thi. Cai Rang stands as a testament to the Mekong’s rich cultural tapestry and vibrant economic activities. This iconic floating market, one of the largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, is a mesmerizing spectacle that captivates visitors with its lively atmosphere and unique offerings.

Situated along the Can Tho River, Cai Rang Floating Market comes alive at the break of dawn, the sellers start their activity as early as 5 AM, as a fleet of colorful boats converges to create a floating marketplace like no other. This bustling scene is a symphony of sights, sounds, and aromas, offering an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of local traders.

For food enthusiasts, Cai Rang is like no-others. The pure Mekong Delta experience as the market boasts an extensive array of fresh produce, exotic fruits, and delectable street food. From steaming bowls of “hu tieu” noodle soup to the tantalizing scent of Vietnamese coffee, every corner of the market tells a story through its culinary offerings.

Exploring Cai Rang Floating Market involves navigating the intricate network of boats, each laden with an assortment of goods. Visitors can engage in the unique experience of boat-to-boat shopping, bargaining for souvenirs, textiles, and local handicrafts. The floating market is not merely a commercial hub; it’s a cultural exchange where smiles and friendly banter transcend language barriers.

Ong Temple (Chùa Ông)

Located opposite Can Tho river, the site is a religious and top choice for pretty much any visitor. The peaceful ambiance of Ong Pagoda surrounded by lush greenery and adorned with intricate architectural details, this sacred monument is a Chinese temple set inside the Guangzhou Assembly Hall that offers an enjoyable visit. The temple built in the late 19th century, Ong Pagoda boasts impressive architectural elements that showcase a harmonious blend of Chinese and Vietnamese influences. The pagoda is dedicated to Quan Cong, a revered Chinese general symbolizing loyalty, justice, and integrity, making it a significant pilgrimage site for those seeking spiritual enlightenment.

Visitors can explore the temple’s ornate halls, where delicate incense wafts through the air, creating a serene atmosphere conducive to reflection. The vibrant colors of the One Temple’s interiors and the mesmerizing details of its statues provide a visual feast for those keen on cultural exploration.

This Vietnamese spiritual site,” Ong Pagoda Can Tho invites visitors to embark on a journey of spiritual discovery and cultural appreciation. Amidst the dynamic urban landscape, this sacred sanctuary stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Vietnamese traditions and the timeless allure of spiritual tranquility.

Phong Dien Floating Market

Phong Dien Floating Market is another interesting yet less crowded trading center on water that is some 20 kilometers southwest of Can Tho city. Once you get here, you see boats loaded with fresh veggies and local goods and its best to visit the floating market from 5-8 AM. It’s possible to get to the market by road, there are regular tours visiting both markets as well.

Binh Thuy Ancient House (Nhà cổ Bình Thủy)

Binh Thuy Ancient House, a 150 year old historical treasure nestled in the heart of Can Tho, southern Vietnam. Steeped in rich cultural heritage, this architectural masterpiece stands as a testament to a bygone era and offers visitors a captivating experience. Binh Thuy Ancient House, built in the 1870’s, exudes timeless elegance with its French colonial design and traditional Vietnamese elements. Surrounded by lush gardens and adorned with intricate wood carvings, the house provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of a bygone era, showcasing a harmonious blend of East-meets-West aesthetics.

Architectural Marvels and Cultural Significance reveals. Visiting the historic house will to step into the past as you wander through the corridors of Binh Thuy Ancient House, marveling at its well-preserved architecture, antique furniture, and captivating artifacts. The house serves as a living museum, reflecting the affluence and cultural nuances of its former residents, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and architecture aficionados.

Binh Thuy Ancient House Can Tho with its unique “French colonial architecture,” stands as a evidence of a “Vietnamese historical sites”. This impeccably preserved gem weaves together history, culture, and architectural brilliance, offering an unforgettable experience for those seeking a deeper connection with Mekong’s illustrious past.

Pitu Kohsa Rangsay Pagoda

In Vietnam its called “Vien Quang”. This 3 story Khmer Theravada Buddhist Pitu Kohsa Rangsay Pagoda was build around 1948. Considered as a hidden gem in Can Tho, the pagoda emanates serenity and spiritual splendor and attracts visitors with its intricate architecture and cultural significance. Explore the sacred halls adorned with vibrant artwork, creating a peaceful sanctuary for contemplation. Pitu Khosa Rangsay Pagoda is a must-visit destination for those seeking a harmonious blend of history and spirituality in the heart of Can Tho. Immerse yourself in the allure of this timeless haven and experience the essence of Vietnamese cultural heritage.

Can Tho Museum

The enormous, well-presented Can Tho Museum has exhibits of the history of Can Tho resistance during foreign rule as well as displays on the culture and history of the province. There’s a life-size pagoda and ample English signage. The well presented Can Tho Museum brings local history of Mekong to life with manikins and life-size reproductions of buildings, including a Chinese pagoda and a house interior. Currently there is no entrance fee for the museum. The exhibits are quite interesting, related with the local. However, some of the displays have no English translation.

Munireangsey Khmer Pagoda

The ornamentation of Munirangsyaram Pagoda is typical of Khmer Hinayana Buddhist pagodas: it doesn’t have any of the multiple Bodhisattvas and Taoist spirits common in Vietnamese Mahayana pagodas. In the upstairs sanctuary, a 1.5m-high representation of Siddhartha Gautama, the historical Buddha, sits serenely under a Bodhi Tree.

Can Tho Weather ➔ Best time to go

The best time to visit Can Tho is any season but summer. Can Tho enjoys a tropical climate year-round, the summers are all about heavy rainfalls at least 3-4 hours per day, spring, autumn and winter seasons aren’t much different in Can Tho since the all 3 seasons make it dry and hot. However, December and January till early February are the coolest months. Rains fall from July to mid-November, and the hottest months are from March to June.

Can Tho Transport ➔ Getting there & away

There are regular flights from Vietnam’s major cities such as Hanoi, Danang, Dalat, Hai Phong, Nhat Trang to Can Tho Tra Moc airport which is located 12km form the city center. There are also 4 international flights From Can Tho international airport fo Seoul, Taipei, Bangkok, Thailand and Kuala Lumpur.

There are buses leaving Ho Chi Minh City from Mien Tay bus station (about four hours). Express limousines make the same trip in about the 2.5 hours time. The main bus station in Can Tho is about a kilometre north of town at the intersection of Ð Nguyen Trai and Ð Tran Phu. There is another short-haul bus depot about 300m south of the intersection of Ð 30 Thang 4 and Ð Mau Than, which is good for getting to Soc Trang and the Phung Hiep floating market.

It’s also possible to get to Can Tho via the Hau River, on a ferry from Ho Chi Minh City or from Cambodia.

Can Tho Hotels and Places to Stay

Budget-wise, there are a handful of hotels, guesthouses, homestay and luxury accommodations to stay in Can Tho. Best hotels in Can Tho Vietnam including 1. Azerai resort · 2. West hotel Can Tho · 3. Con Khuong Resort · 4. West hotel · 5. Vinpearl Can Tho · 6. muong thanh hotel can tho 7. Iris hotel Can Tho and TTC hotel. Those are just our suggestions and we are not get paid to name those hotels and places of stay in Can Tho in this article.

We however suggest to choose a place to stay that is in an ideal location near floating and night markets, offering boat tours, stunning Mekong River views, cultural experiences, and Mekong Delta cuisine. Features cozy colonial style, pool, and gardens and of course breakfast is always included.