What is the best way to see the Cai Rang Floating Market?

Take an early morning boat tour (starting around 5-6 AM) from Ninh Kieu Wharf; hiring a local guide enhances the experience.

Is English widely spoken in Can Tho?

English is common in tourist areas, hotels, and with younger people, but learning basic Vietnamese phrases is helpful in rural spots.

What local dishes should I try?

Don't miss hu tieu (noodle soup), banh xeo (crispy pancakes), and fresh tropical fruits like mangosteen and rambutan.

Can I use credit cards in Can Tho?

Credit cards are accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants, but carry cash (Vietnamese Dong) for markets, street food, and small vendors.

How do I get to Can Tho from Ho Chi Minh City?

Options include a 3-4 hour bus ride, a 1-hour flight, or a scenic boat trip along the Mekong River.

Varies by nationality. Many countries get 15-30 days visa-free; check with Vietnamese embassy.

What currency is used?

Vietnamese Dong (VND). US dollars are accepted at some hotels but not widely.

Is tap water safe to drink?

No, drink bottled or boiled water only.

What language is spoken?

Vietnamese. English is limited; learn basic phrases or use translation apps.

Are credit cards widely accepted?

Only at upscale hotels, restaurants, and some shops. Carry cash for markets and street food.

Lightweight clothing, rain jacket (if rainy season), insect repellent, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes.

Is it safe to eat street food?

Yes, but choose busy stalls with high turnover. Avoid raw or undercooked items.

Can I use my mobile phone?

Buy a local SIM (Viettel, Mobifone) at the airport or stores. Wi-Fi is widespread in cafes and hotels.

What is the tipping culture?

Not mandatory, but small tips (5-10%) are appreciated for good service.

Are there any cultural taboos?

Avoid public criticism of the government or discussing sensitive topics like the Vietnam War.

Is Can Tho suitable for solo travelers?

Yes, it's safe and friendly. Join group tours for floating markets to meet others.

Can Tho

ProvinceVietnam, Asia

Can Tho is a STATE in Vietnam, Asia.

Can Tho, the vibrant capital of Vietnam's Mekong Delta, is a captivating destination where life revolves around its legendary waterways. Known as the 'Rice Bowl of Vietnam,' this province offers an authentic glimpse into delta culture, centered on the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market—one of the largest in the region, where boats laden with colorful fruits, vegetables, and local goods create a mesmerizing spectacle at dawn. Beyond the market, travelers can explore lush orchards, serene canals by sampan, and traditional villages producing rice paper and noodles. The city itself blends modern energy with historic charm, seen in landmarks like the ornate Munirangsyaram Pagoda and the Can Tho Museum. Can Tho's culinary scene is a highlight, featuring fresh river fish, hu tieu noodles, and exotic fruits. Its warm, welcoming atmosphere and slower pace of life provide a perfect escape into the heart of the Mekong's natural beauty and rich agricultural heritage.

Best time to visit Can Tho

December to April (dry season) is ideal, with sunny weather and lower humidity, perfect for exploring markets and canals. Avoid the rainy season (May to November) due to frequent floods, though it offers lush landscapes. Key festivals include the Ok Om Bok Festival (November) with moon worship and boat races.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Rainy, 24-30°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Low
Prices: Low

Rain decreasing; still good deals.

Know before you go

Getting there

VCA

Can Tho International Airport

Domestic & International

10 km away

SGN

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City)

International

170 km away

PQC

Phu Quoc International Airport

International

250 km away

Getting around

"Transport options include taxis (Mai Linh, Vinasun), ride-hailing apps (Grab for cars and motorbikes), and cyclos for short trips. Public buses are limited; renting a motorbike or bicycle is popular for flexibility. Boat tours are essential for visiting floating markets and canals. For longer distances, use inter-provincial buses or domestic flights from Can Tho International Airport."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Widely available in cafes, hotels, and restaurants

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $3-5

Calling code

+84

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Petty theft and minor scams are the main concerns; violent crime is rare.

Night safety

7/10

Petty theft and minor scams are the main concerns; violent crime is rare.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Can Tho is relatively safe for tourists. Exercise normal precautions: avoid isolated areas at night, secure valuables, and be cautious on motorbikes. Common scams include overcharging at markets or fake tour operators—use reputable agencies. The city center and tourist areas are generally secure, but petty theft can occur in crowded places. Traffic can be chaotic; cross roads carefully and consider guided tours for rural areas."

Police

113

Ambulance

115

Fire

114

Tourist Police

113

Entry and health

Health information

"Can Tho has adequate medical facilities, including Can Tho Central General Hospital and private clinics like FV Can Tho Hospital. Common health concerns include mosquito-borne diseases like dengue fever and Zika virus—use insect repellent and wear long sleeves. Travelers should drink bottled or boiled water to avoid gastrointestinal issues. Recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine shots. Medical services are generally available, but serious conditions may require evacuation to Ho Chi Minh City. Travel insurance is advised."

Culture

Local customs

"Dress modestly when visiting pagodas (cover shoulders and knees). Remove shoes before entering homes or temples. Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants and for guides (5-10%). Greet with a slight bow or handshake. Avoid public displays of affection. Bargaining is common at markets, but do so politely. Respect elders and use both hands when giving/receiving items."

VietnameseKhmerEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND) · ₫

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$2-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $2-5

Hotels

$15-40 | budget hotels range $15-40/night

Local transport

$0.50-1 | local bus ride ~$0.50-1

Cost notes

Can Tho is very affordable; luxury options exist but are limited.

Timezone

Asia/Ho_Chi_Minh +07:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1,250,000

Area

1,440 km²

Government

Municipality (centrally-governed city, equivalent to a province)

ISO code

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: کآن تھؤ, קאנטחו, Tỉnh Phong Dinh, เกิ่นเทอ, Cantho, Канто, Kanto, Thành phố Cần Thơ, Cần Thơ, 껀터시, Can Tho, شهر کان‌تو, Kantxo, ಕಾನ್ ತೋ, ແຄນໂທ, VN-CT, 芹苴市, Tây Đô, Кантхо, Can Tho City, Քանթհո, ទីក្រុងព្រែកឫស្សី, कान थौ, カントー, Canthoum, Kantas, Кан Тхо, کان‌تو, 껀터, ကန္ထားမြို့, كن تاه, Duc Long, Vi Tanh, Vi Thanh, Vi Tkhan', Vị Thanh, bhi thana, fy than, vi tani, vi thana, vui・tan, wy tan, wy tھan, Đức Long, Вi Тхань, Ви Тхань, في ثان, وی تان, وی تھان, वी थान, ভি থান, ਵੀ ਥਾਨ, ቪ ታን, ヴィ・タン

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