Explore Can Tho - Top Attractions That Remain its Hottest Spots

Can Tho is one of the most vibrant cities in the Mekong Delta with a unique charm that draws visitors back repeatedly. Home to some of the region's top attractions, Can Tho never fails to impress travelers with its natural beauty, lively culture, and delicious cuisine. Whether you're looking for Can Tho attractions, Can Tho must-see spots, or wanting to explore its Can Tho hottest spots, this guide will uncover the prime destinations that showcase why Can Tho remains a hot destination in the Mekong Delta tour.

Situated on the banks of three branches of the Mekong River, Can Tho epitomizes the best of what the Mekong has to offer. From intricate river markets teeming with local produce and products to lush green orchards and fields stretching as far as the eye can see. The city also has a few hidden gems that often fly under the radar of many travelers. In this article, we'll help you plan your visit by profiling some of Can Tho's most charming and authentic attractions that every visitor should experience to understand its vibrant soul truly.

1. Cai Rang Floating Market

Cai Rang Floating Market is a vibrant and bustling market located on the Cai Rang River, about 6 kilometers from Can Tho City. It is one of the largest and most popular floating markets in the Mekong Delta, and it is a must-see for any visitor to Can Tho.

Cai Rang Floating Market is a feast for the senses. The air is filled with the sounds of haggling vendors, the smell of fresh food, and the sight of colorful boats bobbing up and down on the river.

The market is open from 5 am to 11 am, and at its peak, it is a hive of activity with hundreds of boats selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. Visitors can take a boat tour of the market, or simply wander around and soak up the atmosphere. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as banh mi, bun bo hue (spicy beef noodle soup), and hu tieu (rice noodle soup).

Whether you are looking to experience the unique culture of the Mekong Delta or simply to find some fresh and delicious food, Cai Rang Floating Market is a must-visit Can Tho attraction.

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Cai Rang Floating Market is early in the morning, from 5 am to 7 am. This is when the market is most active and the temperature is still relatively cool.
• Detailed location: Located on the Cai Rang River, about 6 kilometers from Can Tho City. Visitors can take a boat tour of the market from Ninh Kieu Wharf or any of the many piers along the Hau River.

Image source: tourismcantho.vn

2. Ninh Kieu Wharf

Ninh Kieu Wharf is a popular tourist destination in Can Tho, Vietnam. It is located on the banks of the Hau River and offers stunning views of the city skyline. The wharf is a great place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Can Tho.

At night, the wharf comes alive with music, food stalls, and street performers. One of the best things to do at Ninh Kieu Wharf is to simply relax and enjoy the view. The city skyline looks particularly beautiful at night when the lights are twinkling.

Visitors can also take a boat trip from Ninh Kieu Wharf to explore the surrounding area, such as the Cai Rang Floating Market and the Bang Lang Stork Garden.

Whether you are looking for a place to relax and enjoy the view, or a place to experience the local culture, Ninh Kieu Wharf is a great place to visit.

Safety guidelines:

• Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
• Be careful when walking around at night, as the wharf can be crowded and slippery.
• If you are taking a boat trip, be sure to wear a life jacket.
• Be respectful of the local culture and customs.

Image souce: mykhanh.com 

3. Can Tho Museum

Can Tho Museum is a small but cool museum located in Can Tho City, Southern Vietnam. Even though it's not a big building, there is tons of interesting stuff inside that shows what life was like a long time ago in the Mekong Delta area.

Some of the exhibits show everyday things people used, traditions they followed, and the jobs they had. You can see real artifacts found at old temple ruins too. Upstairs is a replica village home which is neat to check out. Other exhibits include old shrines, musical instruments, drums, and pottery. Plan to spend at least a couple of hours looking at everything.

• Best Time to Visit: January to May. These are the drier months so it's not as hot and humid outside. Early mornings and late afternoons are the most comfortable times to tour around.
• Location: 80 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City. About a 10-15 minute walk from Can Tho Bridge. Around 2 km from the city center.

So in summary, Can Tho Museum is a Can Tho must-see location to learn about the history and culture of the Mekong Delta in a more visual and hands-on way. Check it out during the dry season for a cool cultural experience!

Image source: vinpearl.com

4. Bang Lang Stork Garden

Right near Can Tho Museum is another cool Can Tho attraction called Bang Lang Stork Garden. It's located along the Hau River and has some awesome views. 

The garden covers a big area of around 50 football fields. It's home to lots of different kinds of birds like white-faced spoonbills, and different types of herons and egrets. But the most well-known are the red-crowned cranes - they have white bodies with really bright red tops on their heads and are like the mascot of this whole Mekong Delta region.

• Best Time to Visit: During the dry months when the birds are most active and you can see them better.
• Things to See:
  • You can watch the birds wading in shallow water, flying over in big groups, or perched in trees. Ranger guys there can tell you about the birds.
  • Trails through flowers, trees, and rest spots with river views. Some trails have fences to get close views without bothering the birds.

It's very peaceful walking around the gardens and seeing all the different birds. Don't forget to bring a hat, water, and camera or binoculars. After your day at Can Tho Museum, the stork garden is a nice place to relax next to the river and learn more about the nature and wildlife of this area.

Image source: iocvnpt.com

5. My Khanh Tourist Village

Near Can Tho Museum and Bang Lang Stork Garden is another Can Tho hottest spot called My Khanh Tourist Village. This village gives you a glimpse into traditional local rural life.

Walking around the village, you feel like you stepped back in time to how communities used to operate in this area. It's interesting learning about the history and culture of the Mekong Delta people. After visiting the museum and parks, My Khanh Village is another unique place that makes for an educational day exploring the sites near Can Tho City.

• Best Time to Visit: Any time of year is good to check it out, but mornings and evenings are less hot and humid.
• Things to See:
  • Replica wooden houses on stilts like the old-style homes people used to live in.
  • Farming areas where they grow crops like bananas, coconuts, and oranges the way folks did back then.
  • You can see locals doing jobs like fish farming, making noodle soup, and catching shrimp - cool to learn how people work.
  • Performance stage where cultural shows happen with traditional music, dancing, and costumes.

Image source: vincom.com.vn

6. Binh Thuy Ancient House

One more historical place near Can Tho worth checking out is Binh Thuy Ancient House. This house museum lets you step back in time.

Walking through the different rooms of the big house, you can imagine what it was like living in such a place long ago. It's cool seeing all the old-school furniture and items people used to use. The surroundings make it feel like you traveled back to another era. If you want to learn more about history from Can Tho's early days, Binh Thuy Ancient House is a must-see attraction.

• Best Time to Visit: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest sun. Weekdays tend to be less busy too.
• Things to See:
  • Huge wooden mansion house built in the 1870s in architectural southern Vietnam style.
  • Traditional furnishings inside like antique tables, chairs, bed frames, and decor from the past.
  • Learn about a wealthy family who lived there through exhibits on their daily life.

Image source: thamhiemmekong.com

7. Phong Dien Floating Market

Just a short boat ride away is one of the most vibrant spots in the area - Phong Dien Floating Market! This lively marketplace will immerse you in local culture.

You'll be blown away by the colorful chaos of this floating bazaar. Grandmas and grandpas have been plying these waters for generations - their toughness and hospitality will charm you. Be sure to try numbing paper-wrapped river shrimp - so good you'll want more! Phong Dien Market is a highlight, promise you'll leave with plenty of stories.

• Best Time to Visit: Early morning around 6 a.m. - 8 a.m. when business is booming. Vendors are hustling and the energy is contagious!
• Things to See:
  • Hundreds of boats crammed with fruits, veggies, cooking goods, and all sorts of items.
  • Haggle with sellers as they paddle boat to boat trying to win customers.
  • Drawn in by aromas of grilled treats, sip fresh coconut water while soaking it all in.
  • Get an authentic experience - no tickets or gates, just real everyday commerce.

Image source: iocvnpt.com

8. Can Tho Travel Tips

Now that you're psyched to immerse yourself in the Mekong Delta's charming culture, here are our insider Can Tho Travel Tips:

• Transportation - Rent a motorbike to zip between spots, or grab xe om (motorbike taxi) for short rides. Public buses also connect the main areas.
• Weather - Pack lightweight clothes, sunnies, hats, and sunscreen year-round. Rain gear is needed during the rainy season from June-Nov.
• Money - ATMs are common, major brands accepted. Smaller shops may prefer cash. Bargain at markets but be polite!
• Food - Take snacks, and water with you. Street food is yummy but bottled water is safe. Must-tries are Cao Lau noodles and ca pun rice cakes. Local beers like 333 are refreshing!
• Timing - Mornings are the coolest. Afternoons can be wet. Allow plenty of time between locations to soak it all in.

Trust your instincts and be open-minded - the hospitality and unique flavors of Can Tho will more than makeup for any small mishaps along the way! With these tips, you're ready for an unforgettable Mekong Delta tour.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, Can Tho remains one of southern Vietnam's hottest destinations with its rich cultural attractions and natural wonders. As you've read, places like Can Tho Museum, Bang Lang Stork Garden, My Khanh Tourist Village, Binh Thuy Ancient House, and the vibrant Phong Dien Floating Market offer a glimpse into the unique history and daily life of the Mekong Delta region. 

Whether you're interested in arts, history, or wildlife, Can Tho delivers top-notch experiences through its diverse Can Tho attractions and must-see locations. With educational exhibits and performances, wandering through traditional villages, and soaking in spectacular scenery, these top spots are sure to please any type of traveler. 

So don't miss your chance to check out the vibrant Can Tho hottest spots for yourself! For those ready to plan an unforgettable adventure in the Mekong Delta, contact our travel agency Threeland Travel. We specialize in custom itineraries that hit all the top cultural and natural attractions around Can Tho and Beyond. Let our local experts craft your ideal Mekong Delta Tour today!