Located approximately 170 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho is the largest city situated downstream of the Mekong. It continues to charm its inhabitants and, above all, passing travelers, thanks to its quintessentially southern character, its rivers, botanical spaces, orchards and historic market. Can Tho promises an enriching and memorable experience for your Vietnam journey.

History

For roughly a century, the historical significance of Can Tho has greatly favored the city's development. Formerly known as Tran Giang, the region evolved from a simple settlement into a strategic defensive outpost, thanks to its network of river transportation and abundant alluvial deposits in the rice paddies. Can Tho underwent successive transformations during French occupation, which were quickly followed by American imperial influence.

The origin of the name is also told through two different legends. The first version recounts that Emperor Nguyen Anh, during his mission, was captivated by the charm of the Cam Thi Giang river. Entirely enchanted by this beauty, the sovereign apparently named the entire landscape Can Tho. The second meaning is said to derive from a combination of two plant names—parsley, or "rau can," and aromatic herbs "rau thom." It is said that the word "Can Thom" eventually gave birth to Can Tho.

Today

Can Tho takes pride in becoming the most prosperous city in the Mekong Delta. It currently represents the economic, cultural, scientific and technological hub of the southern delta. The city now boasts a major freshwater port and two industrial parks. It also benefits from a university that welcomes nearly 2,000 students across three fields of study: agriculture, medicine and education.

Can Tho is directly connected to its neighboring cities via National Highway 1A, the north-south expressway to the east, and National Highways 61B, 80, 91, 91B and 91C. It is also in this modern city that you'll find Southeast Asia's longest suspension bridge, spanning a total length of 16 km with access to 4 lanes. This structure significantly contributes to the growth of the southwestern region.

Exploring Can Tho

This modern city welcomes you into an atmosphere where life flows pleasantly. Here are the sites that should not be missed during your stay in Can Tho.

Ninh Kieu Quay

Bordering the Hau River, this location represents a symbolic landmark of Can Tho and has inspired countless poets and musicians. From this vantage point, you can see the Can Tho Bridge and enjoy spectacular views of the Mekong Delta river. Ninh Kieu Quay is ideal for a romantic stroll, but the walk can also be enjoyed with family or friends to enhance the mood.

Floating Markets of Can Tho

It hardly makes sense to visit Can Tho without taking a detour to the floating markets. On the water, more than 300 types of boats vie to sell their wares of all kinds. Merchandise consists largely of bulk fruit sales, cereals and countless foodstuffs from the delta. The sight of this bustling landscape filled with animated crowds coming to stock up and chat is truly breathtaking. For most families, these boats also serve as homes. These locals will be delighted to prepare delicious dishes aboard their house-boats, should the experience tempt you. To participate in this extraordinary atmosphere, set out very early in the morning, around 7 or 8 a.m. Furthermore, the Phong Dien floating market is renowned for having preserved its authentic character. In fact, it is the only place where the true cultural tradition of the south still thrives.

Artisanal Villages

Grouped within the Mekong Delta, these sites reveal the secrets of crafting coconut milk candy, rice cakes and puffed rice cakes. Other workshops show you how to create handcrafted objects from coconut wood. But before arriving, take advantage of the journey to admire the verdant landscapes unfolding before you.

Binh Thuy House

This is an ancient building located 7 km from Can Tho. It is renowned for serving as the filming location of a film titled "The Lover," directed by Jean-Jacques Annaud in 1992.

Ong Pagoda

Located in Ninh Kieu District, this sanctuary marks a pilgrimage site for Chinese settlers who came to Can Tho generations ago. The building features an intact architectural style and preserves the traditional cultures of western Tay Do (another name for Can Tho).

What to Do in Can Tho?

• Visit the fruit tree gardens: Of all regions in Vietnam, Can Tho is renowned for possessing the largest orchards. During a stroll, you can appreciate their beauty while sampling delicious fruits. Subsequently, you'll feel delightfully displaced when passing the sand dunes along the riverbank.

• Take a boat ride through the canals: Passing through those of Ngông, Cai Son, Chanh or Cam, you'll encounter a breathtaking landscape. Take time to admire the countryside, old houses and important historical and cultural remnants. On the other hand, this allows you to view the orchards and floating markets from a different perspective.

Some 60 km from Can Tho lies the Bang Lang Bird Sanctuary, covering an area of 1.5 hectares. This reserve is home to a multitude of species of wading birds, including cattle egrets, egrets, bitterns and more. The detour is worth the effort, especially for nature enthusiasts seeking serenity.

Practical Information

Climate

The city of Can Tho generally enjoys favorable weather year-round. Seawater temperatures are pleasant and conducive to swimming. For a trip to this destination, the best visiting periods fall between February and September. October marks the season of abundant rainfall. The region enters a dry phase in February and December.

Low-cost domestic flights make it easy to reach Can Tho.

The Futa Bus company also operates sleeping buses that run day and night routes. Departures synchronize every half hour from Ho Chi Minh City.

Numerous buses and taxis serve Can Tho, but you can also use motorbike-taxi services. Otherwise, a good walk on foot is the best way to discover the city.