Photo: Wander Lust

Located in the southwest of Vietnam, Can Tho offers plenty of things to do for visitors of all ages. From exploring its many orchards to taking a leisurely boat ride through the Mekong Delta, there is something for everyone in Can Tho.

Where is Can Tho in Vietnam?

Can Tho is also called Tay Do, which means the capital (Do) of southwest (Tay) Vietnam. The name was given long ago dating back to the early 20th century; from that time up until the present, the city has remained the largest city in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region. Can Tho is well known for its bustling markets, unique cuisine, and scenic waterways.

Things to do in Can Tho

1. Get up early to enjoy the morning at Cai Rang Floating Market

As per its name, Cai Rang Floating Market takes place on the Hau river. Every morning, hundreds of buyers and sellers gather their boats at the market to trade.

The market is huge and you can find everything from fresh produce to souvenirs floating by on boats. You can also order breakfast from one of the vendors and enjoy it right on your boats.

Some Cai Rang Floating Market tours also include a visit to a hu tieu (a type of rice noodle soup) factory. Here you can taste unique dishes such as pizza hu tieu and watch the locals make hu tieu from scratch.

Gordon Ramsay paid a visit to Cai Rang Floating Market during one of his TV shows. The world-renowned chef hilariously tried to replace a local vendor to make and serve breakfast dishes from her boat.

He later admitted that her version of hu tieu and bun rieu (a Vietnamese rice vermicelli soup) was one of the best dishes he had tasted in all his journeys. The dish was even introduced as a challenge to contestants in one of Master Chef US’s episodes.

Tip from locals: Cai Rang Floating Market’s most vibrant time is in the early morning (5-6 am). After 7 am half of the market will have dispersed. Make sure to be there early enough!

2. Take a short river boat trip

If you’re up too late for the floating market, why not take a short river boat trip to make up for it?

Can Tho is well-known for its extensive network of canals. Taking a boat ride is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and get some fresh air.

Come to Ninh Kieu Wharf and you’ll be approached by many locals who offer a 40-minute private boat trip, which sails around nearby islets. The price we paid was VND 200,000 (for up to 4 people) and it was really worth it.

Tips from locals: It’s best to do this in the late afternoon when it’s not too hot anymore. Remember to wear a life jacket while sitting on the boat!

3. Go for a stroll at Ninh Kieu Wharf

Ninh Kieu Wharf is a favorite gathering point for locals and tourists alike. It’s also a great place to relax and take in the sights and sounds of Can Tho.

The best time to visit the wharf is in the late afternoon when it’s not too crowded and you can feel the soothing winds from the river.

Come here and go for a stroll, you’ll see boats of all sizes entering and leaving, locals taking their dogs on a walk, children playing games, and couples enjoying the view.

4. Watch the city lights at Can Tho Pedestrian Bridge (Love Bridge)

At Ninh Kieu Wharf, wait until the lights are on at Can Tho Pedestrian Bridge and you’ll see how lovely it is. It’s a great place to take a walk and enjoy the fresh air from the river.

5. Go out for dinner at Can Tho Yacht Restaurant

Du thuyền Cần Thơ (Can Tho Yacht Restaurant) is a floating restaurant hosted on a wooden boat. It is docked at Ninh Kieu Wharf right in the city center.

Dinner on board comes with a wide variety of local delicacies and musical performances. A romantic date with your significant other maybe?

6. Admire the architecture of Binh Thuy Ancient House

Binh Thuy Ancient House is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture, with a touch of Eastern influence.

Built in 1870, Binh Thuy Ancient House remains one of the best-preserved old houses in southern Vietnam. The interior is decorated with impressive and valuable furniture, including pieces from the 15th century that were imported from China and France.

Binh Thuy Ancient House was used as a filming location for the movie L’amant (The Lover) starring Jane March and Tony Leung Ka-Fai, and it’s easy to see why. The house is truly well worth a visit if you’re ever in the area.

7. Buy local gifts and specialties in Can Tho

Drop by Can Tho Market on Hai Ba Trung Street and you’ll find lots of souvenirs and gifts to bring home for your loved ones. The most popular souvenirs are conical hats, bookmarks made from bamboo toothpicks, bà ba (traditional loose shirt from South Vietnam), postcards, and T-shirts.

8. Go kayaking at Can Tho Beach

Albeit not a seaside town, Can Tho also offers a decent artificial beach where locals gather to enjoy seafood, take a swim during hot summer days, and kayak for fun. Why not join the locals here if you’re keen on some sea, sand, and sun?

Source: fionatravelsfromasia.com