· VN

Cần Thơ

Can Tho, Can Tho, Vietnam

Dive into the Heart of the Mekong Delta: Cần Thơ Awaits Cần Thơ, the vibrant heart of the Mekong Delta, pulsates with life along the banks of the Hau River. This bustling city offers a captivating blend of traditional Vi…

#Mekong Delta#Floating markets#Riverside city#Vietnamese cuisine#Cultural hub

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Cần Thơ.

Top Hotels in Cần Thơ

Top Flights to Cần Thơ

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Cần Thơ.

Tours

Cai Rang Floating Market

Experience the bustling atmosphere of one of the largest floating markets in the Mekong Delta, where vendors sell fresh produce from boats.

Ninh Kieu Wharf

A scenic spot in Can Tho perfect for a leisurely stroll along the riverside, offering picturesque views of the Mekong Delta.

Shopping

Can Tho Night Market

Explore a lively night market offering street food, clothing, and local handicrafts in the heart of Can Tho.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Cần Thơ.

Currency
₫ | VND | Vietnamese đồng
Population
1.2 million
Languages
Vietnamese, Vietnamese
Average weather
Cần Thơ
Jan
sun
31°22°
Feb
sun
32°23°
Mar
sun
33°24°
Apr
hot
34°25°
May
rain
33°25°
Jun
rain
32°25°
Jul
rain
32°25°
Aug
rain
32°25°
Sep
rain
31°24°
Oct
rain
31°24°
Nov
rain
31°23°
Dec
cloud
31°22°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Cần Thơ.

What people love

Cần Thơ, located in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, offers several pros for travelers:

  1. Floating Markets: Cần Thơ is famous for its floating markets, where local vendors sell fresh produce, seafood, and handicrafts from their boats. Visiting these markets provides a unique and authentic glimpse into the local way of life.

  2. Cái Răng Floating Market: The largest floating market in the Mekong Delta, Cái Răng Floating Market is a must-visit attraction in Cần Thơ. It is a bustling hub of activity where you can witness the vibrant trade happening on the water.

  3. Mekong Delta Experience: Cần Thơ serves as a gateway to exploring the beauty of the Mekong Delta region. You can take boat tours along the Mekong River, visit lush fruit orchards, and interact with friendly locals.

  4. Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine: Cần Thơ offers a wide range of delicious Vietnamese dishes, including local specialties like Cái Răng grilled fish and bún rieu Cần Thơ (crab noodle soup). Foodies will enjoy exploring the vibrant culinary scene of the city.

  5. Scenic Beauty: The picturesque landscape of Cần Thơ, with its winding rivers, lush greenery, and charming villages, provides ample opportunities for photography and relaxation.

Overall, traveling to Cần Thơ offers a rich cultural experience, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural beauty that make it a worthwhile destination for visitors to Vietnam.

What to know

Traveling to Cần Thơ, Vietnam, can have some potential cons to consider:

  1. Weather: Cần Thơ experiences a tropical climate with hot and humid weather throughout the year. This can be uncomfortable for some travelers, especially if they are not used to such conditions.

  2. Language barrier: Vietnamese is the official language in Cần Thơ, and not everyone may speak English fluently. This can sometimes make communication challenging, especially in more remote areas.

  3. Traffic congestion: Like many cities in Vietnam, Cần Thơ can have heavy traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours. Navigating the city by car or motorcycle can be stressful and time-consuming.

  4. Limited tourist infrastructure: While Cần Thơ is a popular tourist destination, it may not have the same level of tourist infrastructure as larger cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. This could mean fewer accommodation options, limited English signage, and fewer tourist services available.

  5. Potential for scams: As a tourist destination, Cần Thơ may attract some scams targeting unsuspecting travelers. It's important to be cautious and aware of common scams, such as overcharging for goods or services.

Overall, while Cần Thơ has much to offer in terms of culture, food, and natural beauty, travelers should be prepared for the challenges that come with visiting a less-developed city in a foreign country.

Cần Thơ is a major city in southern Vietnam and is the largest city in the Mekong Delta region. It plays a significant role in the region's economy, culture, and infrastructure. Here's a detailed history of Cần Thơ, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Historical Background

  • Early History: The region that is now Cần Thơ has been inhabited for centuries, given its fertile land and strategic location along the Mekong River. The area was historically part of the Khmer Empire before becoming part of Vietnamese territory.

  • Colonial Period: In the 19th century, Cần Thơ became more prominent during French colonial rule. The French developed the city as an administrative and economic center, contributing to its growth and modernization.

  • Vietnam War: During the Vietnam War, Cần Thơ was of strategic importance due to its location in the Mekong Delta. It was a site of military activity and conflict, impacting its development and population.

  • Post-War Era: After the reunification of Vietnam in 1975, Cần Thơ continued to develop as a significant urban center in the south. It became the heart of the Mekong Delta, with a focus on agriculture, industry, and education.

Significant Events

  • Establishment as a City: Cần Thơ was officially designated as a city in 2004, reflecting its growing importance in the region. This status allowed for more infrastructure development and investment.

  • Economic Development: In recent decades, Cần Thơ has experienced rapid economic growth. It has become a hub for trade, agriculture, and education, with a focus on rice production, aquaculture, and commerce.

Historical Figures

  • Nguyễn Văn Nhơn: A notable historical figure associated with the region, he was a military general and administrator who played a role in the development of the area during the Nguyễn dynasty.

Important Landmarks

  • Cái Răng Floating Market: One of the most famous attractions in Cần Thơ, this floating market is a vibrant hub of trade and commerce and is a significant cultural landmark. It showcases the traditional way of life and trade in the Mekong Delta.

  • Ninh Kiều Wharf: A popular tourist area along the river, known for its scenic beauty, restaurants, and as a gateway to exploring the river and surrounding areas.

  • Cần Thơ Bridge: Opened in 2010, it is the longest cable-stayed bridge in Southeast Asia. The bridge is a significant infrastructure achievement, connecting the city with other parts of the Mekong Delta.

  • Ong Pagoda: A historic Chinese temple located near the Ninh Kiều Wharf, it is an important cultural and religious site.

  • Cần Thơ University: Established in 1966, it is one of the leading universities in Vietnam, contributing significantly to education and research in the region.

Cần Thơ continues to be a vibrant and dynamic city, balancing modern development with its rich cultural heritage. It remains a central part of Vietnam's Mekong Delta, both economically and culturally.