Top 8 Essential Travel Tips for a Self-Guided Trip to Can Tho

Can Tho offers a wide range of accommodations, from budget hotels and hostels near popular tourist attractions to luxurious 4- and 5-star hotels in the city center. Additionally, homestays have become popular, catering to various preferences and budgets. For those seeking a relaxing getaway, upscale hotels and resorts are ideal, while backpackers and explorers can choose from affordable guesthouses, budget hotels, or homestays. Mytour suggests some great accommodation options across different price ranges to suit your needs:

• 54 Homestay - Located near the famous Bến Ninh Kiều night market and Tân An Old Market, it's convenient for shopping and sightseeing. The homestay offers free motorcycle parking, a rooftop area for parties, and stunning city views. Guests can choose from various room options based on their group size and the length of their stay.
• Green Village Mekong - Situated in Xẻo Tre, Khu Khánh Bình, Phú Thứ Ward, Cái Răng District, this homestay features simple thatched-roof bungalows nestled in lush greenery, perfect for a relaxing stay with loved ones.
• Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho - Located 2.4 km from Bến Ninh Kiều, this modern hotel offers outdoor pools and international dining options. The staff are attentive and speak both Vietnamese and English, ensuring a comfortable stay for international travelers.
• Gạo Homestay Can Tho - Situated in the heart of Can Tho, Gạo Homestay offers modern, stylish rooms with unique designs, close to shopping centers, parks, and tourist spots like Bến Ninh Kiều.
• Kim Lân Hotel - A budget-friendly hotel with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a restaurant. Located in Ninh Kiều District, it provides easy access to major attractions in the city.
• N&D Homestay Can Tho - Located in Hưng Phú Ward, Cái Răng District, N&D Homestay is decorated in a vintage style with unique features, perfect for photo enthusiasts and those seeking a charming, home-like atmosphere.
• 08 Homestay Can Tho - This homestay is located near Bến Ninh Kiều, offering a modern and comfortable design, each room featuring a unique style and color scheme to cater to different preferences.

Can Tho offers a wealth of captivating tourist destinations. From the iconic Bến Ninh Kiều to the lush fruit orchards, or taking a boat ride to visit the Cai Rang Floating Market to experience the charm of the river life. Here are some must-see spots in Can Tho that you shouldn't miss:

• Cai Rang Floating Market: Just 30 minutes by boat from Bến Ninh Kiều (be sure to leave early, around 6 AM, to avoid missing it), you can explore this vibrant market where vendors sell a variety of goods, particularly fresh fruits. It's a unique experience to buy and sell while drifting on the river.
• Bang Lang Stork Garden: In Thoi Binh hamlet, Thoi Thuan commune, Thot Not district (about 40 km from Can Tho city), you'll be amazed by the large flocks of storks perched on tree branches after a day of foraging.
• Phu Sa Eco-Tourism Area: Accessible by free boat rides from Bến Ninh Kiều, this tranquil spot offers scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere. The entrance fee is 30k VND per person.
• My Khanh Tourist Village: For an authentic local experience, you can book a tour (ranging from 4.5 - 5 million VND for 3 days, 2 nights) and live like a landowner from the past. The village also offers bungalow rentals starting from 250k - 500k VND per night.
• Fruit Orchard Areas: You'll find numerous fruit orchards all over Can Tho, whether by road or waterway. You can explore and pick fresh fruits at various orchards in the region.
• West Can Tho Night Market: Located about 1 km from the city center, this cultural and tourist market offers boat rides and local performances of vọng cổ (traditional folk songs). There are also plenty of other interesting things to explore along Bến Ninh Kiều.
• Phong Dien Floating Market: Known for its abundance of tropical fruits and agricultural products, Phong Dien market offers a vibrant shopping experience on the river. From mangoes to pineapples, you can find fresh produce here, all in pristine condition.
• Gian Gua Historical Site: This site is popular with young visitors who enjoy photography and sightseeing. Every year, thousands of visitors come to pay respects to the Thượng Động Cố Hỉ deity. The unique landscape of intertwining mangrove trees makes for an unforgettable setting for photos.
• Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery: This peaceful, large-scale monastery is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. With statues of Buddha, the One-Pillar Pagoda, bell towers, and more, the stunning red-tiled roofs and curved arches of the pagoda make it an ideal place for stunning photographs.

Cần Thơ not only boasts famous tourist spots but also tempts visitors with a variety of delicious and affordable local dishes:

• Cần Thơ’s Cống Cake: The name “cống” comes from the mold, which is shaped like a tube. The cake is crispy on the outside with a soft, spongy interior. Served with fresh herbs, pickled vegetables, and a tangy sweet-sour fish sauce, it's a unique and flavorful treat.

• Coconut Heart and Shrimp Pancakes: Golden and crispy, these pancakes are filled with coconut heart, shrimp, and vegetables. Served with fresh herbs and dipping sauce, the combination of crispy edges and savory filling is unforgettable.

• Grilled Snakehead Fish: A beloved dish from the South, especially when grilled over straw. Its rich, smoky flavor makes it a must-try when in Cần Thơ.

• Grilled Snails with Pepper: Grilled snails, seasoned with fish sauce, garlic, and pepper, offer a burst of flavor that will leave you craving more. The snails are grilled until their juices reduce, creating a savory snack that’s perfect with a cold drink.

• Duck Hotpot with Chao Sauce: This dish is a specialty in the area surrounding Lý Tự Trọng Street. The hotpot is cooked with a mild chao sauce that imparts a rich and sweet flavor, complemented by tender duck meat and an assortment of vegetables.

• Fermented Fish Hotpot: A signature dish from the Mekong Delta, this hotpot is packed with strong flavors and a delicious, spicy aroma. Served with noodles and a variety of fresh local herbs, it’s an authentic taste of the region.

• Grilled Sticky Rice with Banana: A sweet, chewy snack where the smooth, soft banana is wrapped in crispy sticky rice, drizzled with coconut milk for a delightful finish.

• Hủ Tiếu Pizza: This creative take on pizza combines crispy hủ tiếu noodles with a savory coconut milk topping, aromatic herbs, and crushed peanuts for a delightful twist on a Western classic.

• Rice Noodles with Pork Bì: This dish features delicate rice noodles topped with crunchy pork skin, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables. It’s a rich, flavorful dish that’s sure to satisfy any appetite.

• Phù Sa Mangrove Hotpot: A local specialty using mangrove fruit, this hotpot is a taste of the Southern waters, showcasing the region’s unique natural ingredients.

• Phong Điền Roasted Pork with Rice Cake: A must-try if you visit Phong Điền, this dish features thin rice cakes topped with crispy roasted pork and garnished with fresh herbs and chili-sweet dipping sauce.

Not only do you want to enjoy the sights, but also bring home some unique gifts for friends and family, right?

If you're looking for souvenirs during your visit to Cần Thơ, here are some items you can find:

• Phong Điền Sapodilla: Available at Cần Thơ market or at Phong Điền or Bình Thủy orchards.

• Purple Sticky Rice Cake (Bánh Tét Lá Cẩm): A local specialty, available at Cần Thơ market, Xuân Khánh market, or the corner of Phan Đình Phùng – Tân Trào streets.

• Sáu Tia Plum Wine: Available at Cần Thơ market or local specialty stores in Cần Thơ.

• Thuận Hưng Rice Paper: Can be purchased at Cần Thơ market, specialty shops, or directly in Thuận Hưng.

• Muoi Cuong Cocoa Garden: Not only can you taste cocoa products here, but you can also buy fresh cocoa fruits in season. Don’t forget to grab some cocoa-related products like cocoa wine, cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and chocolate candy. Located in Mỹ Ái village, Mỹ Khánh commune, Phong Điền district, Cần Thơ.

• Dried Snakehead Fish: Easy to find at major markets in Cần Thơ or at local tourist sites such as Mỹ Khánh and Ông Đề.

• Hạ Châu Strawberries: Find them at traditional markets or along the major roads in Phong Điền district, especially along Vòng Cung road, which leads to the place where this Cần Thơ specialty is grown!

• Ba Khía (Mud Crabs): Available at specialty stores in Cần Thơ or local markets, perfect for a unique gift.

• Dried Frog: A local delicacy that men shouldn't miss! You can find dried frog at specialty shops in Cần Thơ or visit 176H Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, An Lạc, Cần Thơ to buy it.

• Lacquerware Products: Visit the following shops for handcrafted lacquerware: Đoàn Lộc (146 Trần Hưng Đạo), Minh Nghi (97 Lý Tự Trọng), Trung Tín (58 Lý Tự Trọng), Thanh Thúy (40 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa), Ngọc Hà (46B Ngô Quyền), Sơn mài Hùng (62 Nguyễn Trãi).

• Popular Shopping Spots in Cần Thơ: Cần Thơ Market – Hai Bà Trưng (downtown near Ninh Kiều pier), Maximark Cần Thơ – 02 Hùng Vương, Vinatex Plaza Cần Thơ – 42 đường 30/4, Citimart Cần Thơ – 51 Nguyễn Trãi, Co.opmart Cần Thơ – 01 Hòa Bình, Metro Hưng Lợi – QL 91B.

Day 1:

• Arrive in Cần Thơ at 5 AM, check into your hotel, get ready, and head straight to Cái Răng floating market. The market is lively and bustling at this time, with a cool breeze in the air. Hire a boat to take you to the market for about 300k VND. The ride from Ninh Kiều pier takes around 30 minutes, during which you can enjoy the sunrise over the river while watching the busy trading scene. The market offers a wide variety of products including flowers, fruits, local dishes, and coffee. Enjoy a bowl of bún nước lèo (noodle soup) while sipping iced black coffee, all while floating along the river – an unforgettable experience!

• While on the boat, ask the boatman if you can visit the orchards as well! After touring the market, you can visit the orchards to pick fresh fruits and enjoy some local farm activities like fishing, fruit picking, crocodile fishing, and crossing monkey bridges. These simple activities are very attractive for first-timers. You can also enjoy a traditional Southern lunch with dishes like roasted pork with bánh hỏi and grilled snakehead fish.

• For dinner, dine on a riverboat restaurant while taking in the beautiful view of Ninh Kiều.

Day 2:

• Start your day with breakfast at a luxury restaurant at Ninh Kiều pier or indulge in street food with delicious, budget-friendly dishes that capture the essence of the Mekong Delta. The food here is always fresh and full of flavor!

• By noon, explore the fruit orchards at Mỹ Khánh or Ông Đề tourist villages, where you can live like a local farmer or landowner.

• Next, visit the largest pagoda in the Mekong Delta – Trúc Lâm Phương Nam Zen Monastery. With its tranquil surroundings and the sound of wind chimes blending with the breeze, it’s a peaceful experience that will leave you feeling serene and refreshed.

• In the afternoon, explore the Bình Thủy Ancient House and the Bằng Lăng Stork Garden.

• In the remaining time, wander the streets to try famous local dishes such as bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancakes), bánh cóng (fried cakes), bún mắm (fermented fish noodle soup), gỏi cuốn (spring rolls), bún riêu (crab noodle soup), chè hẻm (street-side dessert), nem nướng (grilled pork rolls), bánh tằm bì (vermicelli with shredded pork), and vịt nấu chao (stewed duck).

Day 3:

• Visit the Nam Nhã Pagoda, Hội Linh Pagoda, and Ông Pagoda to soak in the spiritual atmosphere.

• Admire the exhibits at the Cần Thơ Museum.

• Take a photo at Cần Thơ Bridge, an iconic landmark of the city.

• Capture some beautiful moments at scenic cafes with great views.

• In the evening, take a stroll at Ninh Kiều pier, walk along the pedestrian bridge, visit Cần Thơ’s night market, and shop for souvenirs. The market offers a wide range of products, from local food to souvenirs at reasonable prices, allowing you to pick the perfect gift for your loved ones.

Before you visit any destination, it's important to know a bit about the place. For instance, you can't travel to Cần Thơ without knowing where it is or what makes it special. That's why it’s essential to thoroughly research the destination before you go. Keeping up-to-date with information will greatly enhance your travel experience, especially if you’re planning a self-guided trip.

The climate in Cần Thơ is generally mild. The rainy season stretches from May to November, while the dry season lasts from December to April. If you prefer to avoid the rain, it's best to visit during the dry season. Here are some key festivals you can experience while in Cần Thơ:

• Cái Răng Floating Market Festival: A celebration of Vietnam’s Tourism Day on July 9, with exciting activities at the Cái Răng floating market.

• Bình Thủy Temple Festival: A prayer for peace and a bountiful harvest for the villagers.
• Hạ Điền Festival: Celebrated on the 15th of the 12th lunar month.

• Thượng Điền Festival: Takes place on the 15th of the 4th lunar month.

• Southern Folk Cake Festival: This event is held in the 3rd lunar month in honor of the Hung Kings’ death anniversary (10th of the 3rd lunar month). Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of delicious traditional Southern cakes.

• Chol Chnam Thmay Festival: The Khmer New Year, celebrated on the 13th, 14th, and 15th of the 3rd lunar month.

• Fruit Festival: Held at Tân Lộc Island during the Duan Ngo Festival (5th lunar month).

• Ông Temple Festival: Celebrated on the 7th of the 7th lunar month.

• Phong Điền Ecotourism Festival: Held annually from September 26th to 29th.

• Dolta Festival: A family worship event, celebrated from August 29th to September 1st in the lunar calendar.

• Okombok Festival: A moon-worship festival celebrated by the Khmer on the 15th of the 10th lunar month.

From December to February, as Tết approaches, is an excellent time to visit. During this period, you’ll see vibrant flowers blooming in both the floating markets and city centers. Be sure to check out Bà Bộ Flower Village, where countless flowers bloom in a breathtaking display. This location is often referred to as the “Sa Đéc Flower Village” of Cần Thơ. About a month before Tết, thousands of visitors flock here to take photos and enjoy the beauty of the flowers. Located just 3 km from the city center, it’s a must-see during the Tết season. The Mekong Delta is the birthplace of tropical fruits, and Cần Thơ is no exception. To make the most of your visit, plan your trip around the fruit seasons.

• March - early April: Star apple (vú sữa) season.

• Late April - June: Durian and pomelo season, with large durian orchards found in Cần Thơ.

• May - June: Longan season, when the orchards are bursting with golden fruit.

• June - July: Rambutan and mangosteen season, with the orchards full of ripe, red rambutan fruit.

• July: Lychee season.

To travel to Cần Thơ, you have several options including flying, taking a bus, or riding a motorcycle:

• By Air: Cần Thơ is served by Cần Thơ International Airport, so you can fly directly from Hanoi, Con Dao, or Phu Quoc with Vietnam Airlines. If you're coming from Da Nang, you can fly to Ho Chi Minh City and then take a bus or motorcycle to Cần Thơ. Be sure to look for discounted airfares from budget airlines like VietJet Air and Jetstar, which offer direct flights to Cần Thơ.

• By Bus: For those coming from nearby provinces, buses to Cần Thơ are available. The journey from Ho Chi Minh City, approximately 170 km away, takes around 3-4 hours. Several reputable bus companies offer convenient travel options to Cần Thơ.

• By Motorcycle: For a more scenic route, consider riding a motorcycle to Cần Thơ. You can follow the local roads or highways, with two main routes from Ho Chi Minh City: one via An Lac Roundabout, and the other via Trung Luong Expressway. However, ensure you're in good health for the long ride, as safety should always be your priority. If you're unsure, taking a bus might be a safer option.

In Cần Thơ, thanks to its extensive network of canals, you can also get around by boat, ferry, or even rickshaw. Taxis and buses are available too, with bus stops located about 2 km from the city center on Nguyễn Trãi Street.