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Can Tho
Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta, is located about 170 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Known as the "Rice Basket of Vietnam", this vibrant city lies along the Hau River, a tributary of the Mekong River. Can Tho is renowned for its lush landscapes, intricate waterways, and bustling floating markets. The Hau River is central to life here, supporting transportation, agriculture, and trade.
Free Designed Vietnam Itinerary Now!Overview Can Tho
Can Tho Location
Can Tho, the heart of the Mekong Delta, is located about 170 kilometers southwest of Ho Chi Minh City. Known as the "Rice Basket of Vietnam", this vibrant city lies along the Hau River, a tributary of the Mekong River.
Can Tho is renowned for its lush landscapes, intricate waterways, and bustling floating markets. The Hau River is central to life here, supporting transportation, agriculture, and trade.
Surrounding the city, you’ll find verdant rice paddies, fruit orchards, and fish farms, highlighting its agricultural richness. Can Tho is also a cultural melting pot with Vietnamese, Khmer, and Chinese influences, visible in its festivals, cuisine, and architecture.
Follow Asia Link Travels in this Can Tho travel guide to gain more insights about places to visit in Can Tho, the perfect time to visit as well as some pro tips during your Can Tho tours.
Can Tho overview
The best time to visit
Can Tho feature a tropical climate characterized by warm and humid conditions all year round, encompassing two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season.
The dry season, spanning from December to April, offers favorable weather with reduced humidity and minimal rainfall.
Temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C during this period, making it an ideal time to take the South Vietnam Tours with comfort and ease.
On the flip side, the rainy season spans from May to November. While it does bring higher humidity and frequent showers, the rain transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise.
The rivers swell, enhancing the beauty of Can Tho’s iconic floating markets and sprawling rice paddies.
Can Tho Floating Markets
If you’re planning a trip to Can Tho, the best time to visit is definitely during the dry season, from December to April. The temperatures during this time are just right perfect for sightseeing in many places to visit in Can Tho and outdoor activities without breaking a sweat.
Things to do in Can Tho
Do you wonder what best things to do in Can Tho? Let’s explore the TOP places to visit in Can Tho with many interesting activities!
Visit the Can Tho Floating Markets
Can Tho is renowned for its bustling floating markets, where local vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, and goods directly from their boats. Imagine gliding through the waterways at dawn, surrounded by vibrant colors and the sounds of traders haggling and calling out their wares.
The Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest in the Mekong Delta, is a must-visit. Here, you can enjoy a bowl of Hu Tieu or a cup of Vietnamese coffee right on the boat, immersing yourself in the local culture.
Phong Dien Floating Market, though smaller, is equally charming and provides a more intimate experience. Both markets are at their liveliest in the early morning hours, making it the best time to visit.
Explore Ninh Kieu Wharf
Ninh Kieu Wharf is one of the best places to visit in Can Tho. Situated along the Hau River, it is the heartbeat of Can Tho’s social and commercial life. Stroll along the promenade to enjoy panoramic views of the river, where boats of all sizes glide past.
You can sample local delicacies at riverside eateries, where you can try everything from fresh seafood to exotic fruits.
When the sun goes down, the place turns into a buzzing night market where you can pick up unique souvenirs, try yummy street food, and soak in the lively atmosphere.
The sight of the illuminated bridge and floating restaurants at night is truly magical.
Ninh Kieu Wharf - a must-go place in Can Tho
Discover Can Tho Cultural and Historical Sites
Immerse yourself in Can Tho’s rich cultural heritage by visiting its historic sites. Start with Ong Pagoda, a stunning Chinese-style temple. The intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and incense-filled air create a serene atmosphere.
This temple is not just a place of worship but also a testament to the city’s multicultural past.
Next places to visit in Can Tho, head to the Binh Thuy Ancient House, an architectural gem that beautifully combines French colonial and traditional Vietnamese styles.
As you walk through its elegant rooms and lush gardens, you’ll get a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the past.
Don’t forget to chat with the caretakers, their stories bring history to life.
Hop on a Boat Tour to Explore the Mekong Delta
No visit to Can Tho is complete without exploring the Mekong Delta’s intricate waterway system provided by many Vietnam Travel Companies. Embark on a boat tour and find yourself winding through narrow canals, surrounded by lush greenery and rustic houses on stilts.
These tours often include stops at local villages, where you can see traditional crafts like weaving and pottery making up close. You’ll witness the daily rhythms of delta life, from fishermen casting their nets to children playing by the water’s edge.
It’s a journey that offers both tranquility and a deep connection to many places to visit in Can Tho.
Experience Local Cuisine
Can Tho is a paradise for food enthusiasts. The city’s culinary scene is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, reflecting the diversity of the Mekong Delta. Start your food adventure with Hu Tieu, a flavorful noodle soup that comes in various styles. Try Banh Xeo, crispy sizzling pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, wrapped in fresh greens.
The seafood here is exceptional, with dishes prepared from the freshest catches of the day. Don’t miss out on the street food stalls, where you can sample a variety of local snacks.
Whether you’re a fan of sweet, savory, or spicy, Can Tho’s cuisine will leave your taste buds singing.
Banh Tet La Cam (Cylindrical Glutinous Rice Cake With Magenta Leaves) in Can Tho
Things to buy
When visiting various places to visit in Can Tho, make sure to bring home some unique souvenirs that capture the essence of the Mekong Delta.
Here are 5 must-buy items, along with detailed descriptions.
1. Coconut Candies (Kẹo Dừa)
Coconut candies, made from fresh coconut milk and sugar, offer a diverse range of flavors such as peanut, pandan, and durian. The candies are often wrapped and packaged in colorful boxes, making them perfect for gifts.
The rich, creamy texture and the burst of coconut flavor provide a delightful taste experience that embodies the tropical charm of the Mekong Delta region.
Don’t forget to bring home a box or two to share a piece of the Mekong Delta with friends and family.
2. Pia Cake (Bánh Pía)
Pia cake is a traditional pastry that holds a special place in the culinary heritage of Can Tho. It consists of layers of flaky crust filled with luscious mung bean paste, savory salted egg yolk, and aromatic durian.
This combination of Pia Cake creates a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors that is both intriguing and satisfying.
Pia cakes are often beautifully packaged, making them an excellent gift or a special treat for yourself to remember your time in Can Tho.
Banh Pia Can Tho
3. Handwoven Baskets
Handwoven baskets from the Mekong Delta are crafted by skilled local artisans using natural materials such as rattan and bamboo. These baskets have various sizes and designs.
They are both functional and decorative, making them ideal for home decor or practical storage solutions.
The intricate weaving patterns and the durability of these baskets make them a perfect souvenir to bring home.
4. Áo Bà Ba (Ba Ba Shirt)
Have you heard about the Áo Bà Ba? It is a traditional Vietnamese cloth synonymous with southern Vietnam's rural lifestyle. Made from comfortable, breathable fabric, this outfit consists of a long-sleeved blouse and loose-fitting pants.
Locals in the Mekong Delta often wear Ba Ba Shirt for its practicality and comfort. Ba Ba Shirt comes in various colors and patterns for both male and female, allowing you to choose one that suits your style and for your loved ones.
5. Khăn Rằn (Checkered Scarf)
Khăn Rằn is a versatile checkered scarf that holds significant cultural value in the Mekong Delta. Traditionally used by locals for various purposes, such as protecting themselves from the sun, facemasks, or even as a fashion accessory, the Khăn Rằn is a practical and multifunctional item.
The scarf, made from soft, lightweight fabric and in white and black patterns, is an excellent souvenir option that is easy to pack and carry.
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Bargain politely when shopping in Can Tho’s markets.
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting Can Tho temples and pagodas, to show respect for local customs.
- Try the street food, including local delicacies like Banh Xeo and Hu Tieu.
- Respect local customs and etiquette, such as removing your shoes before entering homes or places of worship.
Don’ts
- Don’t litter, help keep Can Tho clean by disposing of trash properly.
- Don’t be impatient, embrace the relaxed pace of life in the Mekong Delta.
- Don’t disregard safety, always wear life jackets on Mekong Delta boat tours, and be cautious with your belongings.
- Don’t photograph people without permission, always ask first, especially in rural areas or at religious sites.
- Don’t skip the Can Tho floating markets, visit early in the morning to experience them at their best.
Can Tho is a vibrant city that offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Navigating the bustling floating markets, savoring delicious local dishes, and exploring historical places to visit in Can Tho are just a few of the unforgettable experiences awaiting you in this charming part of the Mekong Delta.
So, pack your bags, book your tickets, and prepare for an adventure in the heart of the Mekong Delta with Asia Link Travels - your reliable Vietnam Travel Agency.
Don’t forget to bring your curiosity and appetite for new experiences – Can Tho is waiting to be explored!
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