Things to do and see in Can Tho

Can Tho is the largest city in the Mekong Delta and the best base for exploring it properly. Sitting on the banks of the Hau River, it's the gateway to the region's famous floating markets, lush orchards and canal-laced countryside. Stay a night here and you'll see the delta at its most authentic – before the day-trippers arrive. Here's what to do and see in Can Tho.

The floating markets – Cai Rang and Phong Dien

The floating markets are Can Tho's signature experience. Cai Rang, the largest in the delta, comes alive at dawn (roughly 5–9 am) as hundreds of boats trade fruit, vegetables and goods on the water – each vendor advertising their wares on a tall pole. Smaller, quieter Phong Dien feels more local. Go early by boat and enjoy a bowl of noodles or a coffee bought straight from a floating kitchen.

Ninh Kieu Wharf and the riverfront

The Ninh Kieu Wharf is the lively heart of the city – a riverside promenade with gardens, a night market and views of the illuminated Can Tho Bridge, one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in Southeast Asia. It's the perfect place for an evening stroll, street food and a boat cruise along the river after dark.

Temples, old houses and museums

Can Tho has plenty of history and culture. The Ong Temple on the waterfront is a beautifully decorated Chinese temple dedicated to Quan Cong. The Binh Thuy Ancient House (built in 1870) is a gorgeous blend of Vietnamese and French style, surrounded by a bonsai and orchid garden. And the Can Tho Museum gives an insight into delta life and the region's history.

Cycling and the delta countryside

The flat, green landscape around Can Tho is ideal for cycling. Rent a bike and pedal through villages, rice fields, orchards and along the canals, stopping at family farms and small workshops to see how coconut, rice and fruit are turned into everyday products. It's the best way to meet locals and slow down to delta pace.

Food in Can Tho

The city's cuisine blends Vietnamese, Khmer, Chinese and French influences. Try bánh xèo (crispy savoury pancakes), bánh cống (shrimp-and-pork fritters), bún cá (fish noodle soup) and bánh tét (rice cakes in banana leaf). The Ninh Kieu night market and the floating markets are great places to eat your way around the delta.

Best time to visit Can Tho

Can Tho is warm and green all year. The dry season (December to April) is the most comfortable for boat trips and cycling. During the wetter months, short heavy showers are common but usually pass quickly, and the countryside is at its most lush.

Plan Can Tho into your Mekong Delta trip

Can Tho works best as an overnight base rather than a rushed day trip – that's how you catch Cai Rang at sunrise. See our guide to the Mekong Delta or browse our Vietnam tour packages that include a Mekong cruise. As a local agency in Vietnam, we'll build it around your pace.