Things To Do
in Cần Thơ
Nestled in the heart of the Mekong Delta, this bustling city serves as a vital cultural and economic hub, renowned for its floating markets, where buyers and sellers converge on the river in a vibrant display of local commerce. The landscape is adorned with lush rice fields and crisscrossed by meandering waterways, making it emblematic of Vietnam’s agricultural heritage.
With a rich blend of Khmer, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences, its diverse cultural tapestry is reflected in the cuisine, architecture, and traditions, making it a fascinating destination for both history enthusiasts and culinary adventurers.
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
- "Tạm biệt" - Goodbye
- "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $2 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.30 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a boat trip to the Cai Rang Floating Market, where you can see local traders selling fruits and goods from their boats. Enjoy a delicious bowl of pho at a nearby floating restaurant.
Visit the Binh Thuy Ancient House to admire its traditional architecture and beautiful garden. After that, take a relaxing stroll along the banks of the river.
Experience the local dining scene with a meal at a riverside restaurant. End your day with a tranquil walk along the river under the stars.
Rent a bicycle to explore the lush rice fields surrounding Cần Thơ. Enjoy the serene landscape and take photos of the vibrant green paddies.
Visit a local village to learn about traditional rice farming techniques and perhaps even participate in some activities. Savor a homemade lunch prepared by the locals.
Dine at a local eatery featuring traditional southern Vietnamese cuisine. Enjoy a cultural performance or music show to wrap up your day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and unique Mekong Delta lifestyle
- Famous for its floating markets, such as Cai Rang and Phong Dien
- Diverse and delicious local cuisine, including regional specialties
- Friendly and welcoming local population
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including rivers and canals
- Affordable living costs compared to larger cities in Vietnam
- Limited infrastructure development compared to major cities like Ho Chi Minh City
- Public transportation options may be lacking
- Potential for flooding in the rainy season
- Less nightlife and entertainment options than larger urban areas
- Economic opportunities may be limited for certain professions
- May have fewer healthcare facilities and services compared to larger urban centers
Best Activities in Cần Thơ
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the intricate network of waterways and floating markets
Discover the rural countryside and local way of life
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta
Enjoy a peaceful and scenic paddle on the river's calm waters
Tours
Uncover the best of Cần Thơ with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Cần Thơ
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning panoramic view of the city and Mekong River, especially at sunset and nighttime.
Provides picturesque views of the floating markets and traditional Vietnamese river life.
A great spot to capture the beautiful landscape of Cần Thơ, with its gardens, promenades, and riverfront setting.
Food in Cần Thơ
Cần Thơ Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
One of the city's signature dishes, this grilled snakehead fish is marinated in a blend of turmeric, lemongrass, and chili, resulting in a symphony of flavors. Enjoy it at the Cái Răng Floating Market or local riverside restaurants for an authentic experience.
Must-Try!
This comforting noodle soup featuring a flavorful broth, freshwater crab, and tofu is a must-try. Head to Ninh Kieu Pier or local eateries to savor this Cần Thơ classic.
A unique rendition of the iconic Vietnamese sandwich, Bánh Mì Cần Thơ features a crispy baguette stuffed with marinated pork, homemade pate, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. Look for local street vendors and bakeries for an authentic taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Cần Thơ better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Immerse yourself in the vibrant ambiance of this iconic floating market, where a variety of fresh produce and local delights are on offer. Sample freshly prepared fruit, seafood, and noodles from the myriad of boats as you navigate through the lively waterway.
As dusk descends, the Ninh Kieu Night Market comes alive with an array of street food stalls offering everything from grilled meats and seafood to traditional Vietnamese sweets. It's a fantastic spot to mingle with locals and indulge in a diverse range of flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Cần Thơ, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with appropriate titles and using polite language, as elders are highly regarded in Vietnamese culture.
Greetings are an important part of Vietnamese culture. It is customary to greet others with a smile and a nod or a slight bow. Handshakes are also common, but it's best to wait for the other person to initiate the gesture.
When dining in Cần Thơ, it is polite to wait for the host or the eldest person to start eating before you begin. Additionally, it is customary to leave a little food on your plate to indicate that you have had enough.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Cần Thơ with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Cần Thơ
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Cần Thơ, Vietnam. In most cases, tipping is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or for services. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip may be appreciated, but it is not mandatory.
In Cần Thơ, Vietnam, cash is still widely used for most transactions. However, major credit cards are accepted at larger establishments such as hotels, upscale restaurants, and tourist attractions. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and in more local establishments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Cần Thơ.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Cần Thơ, with pleasant weather, low humidity, and ideal for exploring the Mekong Delta.
Expect frequent rains, lush greenery, and vibrant markets. Boat trips along the Mekong River are popular during this time.
Cần Thơ at Night
Hiking in Cần Thơ
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking spot featuring beautiful landscapes and a variety of flora and fauna, located near the outskirts of Cần Thơ.
A large wetland area known for its unique ecosystem, offering various trails for hiking and nature exploration.
A tranquil area with hiking paths that lead to stunning views of the surrounding countryside and wetlands.
A cajuput forest with walking trails and boat tours, perfect for those who enjoy hiking amidst nature.
An eco-tourism area with various hiking routes that offer opportunities to observe local wildlife and enjoy natural scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Cần Thơ through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Cần Thơ by plane.
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 170 km from Cần Thơ, this is the busiest airport in Vietnam, serving both domestic and international flights.
Situated in Hue, about 300 km north of Cần Thơ, this airport serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Located near Nha Trang, approximately 380 km to the northeast of Cần Thơ, this airport serves domestic and some international destinations.
Located in Da Nang, around 650 km from Cần Thơ, this airport is one of the major airports in Vietnam, handling both domestic and international flights.
Found in Hanoi, about 1,500 km from Cần Thơ, this is the main airport serving the capital of Vietnam, with extensive international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Vietnam, comprising a significant portion of Cần Thơ's population.
Ethnic Chinese community in Cần Thơ, involved primarily in trade and commerce.
Indigenous ethnic group, mainly residing in areas near the Mekong Delta, contributing to the cultural diversity of Cần Thơ.
A smaller ethnic group known for their unique culture and history, residing in various parts of Vietnam including Cần Thơ.
Includes various smaller communities that add to the multicultural fabric of Cần Thơ.
The Soul of Cần Thơ
Discover the essence of Cần Thơ through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Cần Thơ, with many local teams and passionate fans.
Volleyball enjoys popularity in Cần Thơ, with both beach and indoor variants played widely.
Basketball has been gaining traction among the youth in Cần Thơ, with various leagues and tournaments.
Badminton is a favorite recreational sport in Cần Thơ, with many facilities available for players.
Table tennis is frequently played in Cần Thơ, especially in schools and community centers.
Martial arts, especially traditional forms, are practiced widely in Cần Thơ, reflecting local culture and heritage.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cần Thơ.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Cần Thơ's cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, several eateries offer delectable vegetarian and vegan dishes. Look for restaurants like Hoàng Gia and explore traditional Buddhist vegetarian eateries for satisfying plant-based meals.
Finding gluten-free options can be challenging, but certain establishments, especially those with international fare, provide gluten-free alternatives. Communicate your dietary needs clearly, and consider exploring fresh fruit markets for gluten-free snacking options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Cần Thơ with these cultural adventures.
