Things To Do
in Cao Lãnh

Cao Lãnh is a picturesque city located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, known for its lush landscapes and charming waterways. The city serves as the capital of Đồng Tháp Province and is rich in cultural heritage, making it a delightful destination for travelers. Visitors can enjoy the vibrant local markets, traditional festivals, and the serene beauty of the surrounding nature.

Cao Lãnh is also famous for its lotus flowers, which play a significant role in the local culture and economy.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Culture and Nature
morning
:

Start the day with a visit to the Cao Lãnh Lotus Park, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens filled with lotus flowers and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

Head to the Đồng Tháp Museum to learn about the region's history and culture, followed by a boat ride along the Mekong River to explore the local flora and fauna.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant serving traditional Vietnamese dishes and take a relaxing walk along the riverfront to experience the vibrant local life.

day 2
Day 2: Local Markets and Traditional Crafts
morning
:

Visit the Cao Lãnh Market to experience the hustle and bustle of local trade, where you can find fresh produce, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

afternoon
:

Explore the local craft villages, such as the traditional paper-making village, and witness artisans at work creating beautiful handicrafts.

evening
:

Have dinner at a street food stall to try local specialties, then enjoy a cultural show or music performance at a nearby venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Pho$1.50
🍴Street Food Meal$2.00
Coffee$1.00
🚌Bus Ticket$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$10.00

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and heritage.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and waterways.
  • Delicious local cuisine and affordable prices.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Public transportation options can be scarce.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for non-Vietnamese speakers.
  • "Xin chào" - Hello
  • "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
  • "Bạn khỏe không?" - How are you?
  • "Xin lỗi" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "Tôi không hiểu" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Cao Lãnh

Visit one of these nice places.

Cao Lãnh Lotus Park

A stunning park filled with blooming lotus flowers, perfect for capturing the beauty of nature.

Mekong River

The river provides breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset, ideal for landscape photography.

Historic Pagodas

The local pagodas are rich in architecture and history, offering great opportunities for cultural photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Cao Lãnh

Cao Lãnh offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of delicious local dishes that reflect the flavors of the Mekong Delta.

Cao Lãnh Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Bánh Xèo

Crispy Vietnamese pancakes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Phở

Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of broth, rice noodles, herbs, and meat, typically beef or chicken.

Cá Lóc Nướng

Grilled snakehead fish served with rice paper and vegetables, often enjoyed with a tangy dipping sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Cao Lãnh Market

A bustling market where you can find a wide range of fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies.

Night Market

A vibrant night market offering a variety of street food options, perfect for trying local snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Cao Lãnh experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season runs from November to April, characterized by warm temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities. The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and higher humidity, which can lead to flooding in some areas. Average temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C throughout the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always greet and show respect to older individuals; this is a significant cultural norm.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and use both hands to pass food.

Dress Modestly

When visiting temples or local homes, wearing modest clothing is expected.

Safety Guide

Safety

Cao Lãnh is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it is wise to take basic precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and avoid displaying valuables. Traffic can be hectic, so be cautious when crossing streets. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers potential health emergencies.

Tipping in Cao Lãnh

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving a small amount is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; however, some restaurants and shops accept credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect warm temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Wet Season (May - October)

Frequent rain showers can occur, but the lush landscapes are at their most vibrant during this time.

Tet Festival (January/February)

Experience local traditions and celebrations during the Vietnamese Lunar New Year.

Lotus Blooming Season (June - August)

Witness the breathtaking lotus flowers in full bloom, a highlight for visitors.

Nightlife Guide

Cao Lãnh at Night

Cao Lãnh's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger Vietnamese cities. You can find local bars and cafes offering live music and a relaxed atmosphere. The night market is a lively spot to enjoy street food and mingle with locals. For those interested in cultural experiences, occasional performances and festivals take place in the evenings, showcasing traditional music and dance.

Hiking in Cao Lãnh

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tràm Chim National Park

This national park offers a variety of hiking trails through wetlands, with opportunities to see diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.

Bạch Mã Mountain

Located a bit further away, this mountain offers challenging hikes with stunning views of the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Cao Lãnh by plane.

Can Tho International Airport

Located about 80 km from Cao Lãnh, this airport serves domestic flights and a few international routes, providing convenient access to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Cao Lãnh is moderately walkable, particularly in the city center where many attractions, markets, and restaurants are located within walking distance. Sidewalks are available, but may not always be well-maintained. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and be cautious of traffic when walking.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Kinh

The Kinh are the majority ethnic group in Vietnam, comprising most of the population in Cao Lãnh.

Khmer

The Khmer people, an ethnic minority in Vietnam, have a significant presence in the region, contributing to the local culture and traditions.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is widely played and watched throughout the region, with numerous local teams and events.

Martial Arts

Traditional Vietnamese martial arts, such as Vovinam, are popular among locals, with schools and competitions available.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Cao Lãnh can be busy, especially during peak hours. Motorbikes are the most common mode of transportation, followed by cars and bicycles. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, but they may not always be readily available. It's advisable to rent a motorbike or bicycle for easier navigation around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Cao Lãnh.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian/Vegan Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options may be limited, so it's important to check with restaurant staff before ordering.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Cao Lãnh includes several local clinics and hospitals, but facilities may be basic. For more serious health issues, larger hospitals are located in nearby cities like Sa Đéc and HCM City. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical care and to carry any necessary medications with you.

Discover Vietnam

Read more in our Vietnam 2025 Travel Guide.

Vietnam Travel Guide