Things To Do In Can Tho For 2 Days: Essential Experiences

Can Tho, the central city of Vietnam’s Southwest region, captivates visitors with its vast river landscapes, lush fruit gardens, vibrant floating markets, and the warmth of its friendly locals.

To ensure you make the most of your time here, Joy Journeys has compiled a guide filled with essential tips and Things to do in Can Tho for 2 days—helping you experience all the charm this city has to offer!

Describe Can Tho city: A vibrant gem of the Mekong Delta

Location and geography

Can Tho City is the heart of Southwest Vietnam, situated on the right bank of the Hau River, approximately 180 km from Ho Chi Minh City. It is conveniently accessible for foreign tourists, with frequent bus and boat connections from Ho Chi Minh City, making it an easy addition to any travel itinerary.

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the famous Mekong Delta floating markets.

Natural beauty

Can Tho offers visitors a chance to reconnect with nature’s beauty. The city’s roads are lined with lush greenery, and the locals are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor. Rows of coconut trees and serene lotus ponds are everywhere, creating a peaceful and refreshing atmosphere.

People

The people of Can Tho are well-known for their friendliness and warm hospitality. This provides a wonderful opportunity to connect with locals and learn about the lives of families living on boats. Engaging in conversations about the culture and history of the area will also give you deeper insights into the many aspects of life in this unique region.

Floating markets

Floating markets are vibrant river markets where traders from various regions anchor their boats to buy and sell goods. In Can Tho, the Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets are the largest, with Cai Rang being recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage site.

The lively atmosphere here is hard to find elsewhere. Boats filled with agricultural produce and household items crowd the market, creating a bustling scene. Sellers use ‘cay beo’ poles to hang their products, making it easy for buyers to spot what’s on offer from afar.

Local festivals

As a large, thriving city, Can Tho attracts people from various backgrounds, creating a diverse community with over 40 ethnic groups, including the Cham, Hoa, Kinh, and Khmer. This cultural richness is reflected in the city’s many vibrant festivals, such as the Can Tho Lantern Festival, Can Tho Cake Festival, and Ong Pagoda Festival. Notably, the Binh Thuy Communal House Festival is recognized as one of the city’s five intangible cultural heritage sites.

If you’re planning a visit to Can Tho, check ahead to see if any festivals are happening during your stay. Therefore, you can experience the city’s unique cultural beauty.

Recommend things to do in Can Tho for 2 days

Planning a trip to Can Tho? Here are some things to do in Can Tho for 2 days that will immerse you in its vibrant culture and natural wonders.

Day 1: Dive into Can Tho’s vibrant culture

Morning: Visit Cai Rang Floating Market

Start your day early, as vendors gather on the river around 3-4 AM. Cai Rang Floating Market is bustling with boats selling fresh fruits, breakfast, and drinks. Enjoy a unique meal right on the boat, and visit nearby noodle and rice paper factories to see how local specialties are made.

Afternoon: Explore Binh Thuy Ancient House

This over-100-year-old house is a must-see for its blend of Eastern and Western architecture. Set on 6,000 m² of land surrounded by lush gardens, the house showcases the craftsmanship of Vietnamese artisans, with intricate carvings of traditional Southern symbols like bamboo, lotus, and mythical creatures.

Evening: Stroll Along Ninh Kieu Wharf

A symbol of Can Tho, Ninh Kieu Wharf has been transformed into a beautiful park, perfect for an evening stroll. For dinner, you can enjoy a luxurious meal aboard a river cruise or sample street food at the Can Tho night market, where local dishes like grilled rice paper and crab vermicelli soup are sold.

Day 2: Countryside adventures and natural wonders

Morning: Cycle Through Can Tho’s Countryside

Start your second day by cycling through scenic, tree-lined roads and passing vast rice fields. This is a great way to immerse yourself in the peaceful rural life of the locals.

Afternoon: Discover Can Tho’s Orchards

Visit the region’s tropical fruit gardens to enjoy seasonal fruits like plums and rambutan. Phong Dien and My Khanh orchards offer fresh fruit and fun activities like fishing, walking on monkey bridges, and fruit harvesting.

Evening: Explore More Night Markets

In addition, if you’re curious about what to do in Can Tho at night, consider visiting night markets such as Tay Do, Tran Phu, or Bai Cat or admiring Can Tho Bridge, which is beautifully illuminated after dark.

If you’re looking for a sit-down dinner, Can Tho offers excellent Vietnamese cuisine at restaurants like Cay Buoi, Lua Nep, and Hoa Su.

Additional must-do activities

Visit local temples and pagodas

• Ong Pagoda: Built in 1894, Ong Pagoda is rich in cultural identity and reflects the Buddhist beliefs of the Chinese community. Its unique architecture and its ancient, quiet, and sacred atmosphere draw many visitors. In 1993, the pagoda was designated a National Historical Relic.
• Munir Ansay Pagoda: Established in 1948, this Khmer pagoda stands out with its bright yellow color and intricately decorated pillars and walls. It is a cultural hub for the Khmer community, hosting festivals such as Cholchonam Thomay (Khmer New Year) and Ok-om-Book. Visitors can experience these vibrant celebrations and participate in folk games during festival times.
• Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery: Inaugurated in 2014, this Zen monastery is a vast architectural complex featuring temples, shrines, and impressive statues, including a 3.5-ton Buddha Shakyamuni. Surrounded by natural beauty, including lotus ponds and tree-lined paths, it offers visitors a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

Participate in a cooking class

The Mekong Delta’s cuisine is a significant draw for tourists. Beyond just tasting the local specialties, you can join a cooking class to learn how to prepare these delicious dishes yourself. Many resorts and travel companies offer this service, so mention your interest when booking to enjoy this immersive experience.

Explore local markets for souvenirs

The local markets are a must-visit for small gifts to take home to friends and family. You’ll find an array of handicrafts, like water hyacinth baskets and sleeping mats, alongside delicious treats such as chocolate and coconut candy, all available in abundance.

Tips for your day trips from Can Tho

If you’re considering day trips from Can Tho, here are some tips compiled by Joy Journeys just for you.

Best time to visit

This city has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct rainy and dry seasons. If you’re planning your trip and looking for a great time to visit, the dry season from November to April is generally the best choice.

During these months, you can enjoy pleasant weather with minimal rainfall, and fruit trees are in season, offering a bounty of delicious fruits. Additionally, the favorable weather makes it perfect for outdoor activities like cycling, boating on the river, and exploring floating markets.

Getting around

Can Tho’s infrastructure has steadily improved, providing visitors with various travel options:

• Motorbike: Renting a motorbike is one of the easiest and most flexible ways to explore Can Tho. Prices typically range from 150,000 to 200,000 VND per day.
• Taxi: As a bustling city, Can Tho offers convenient taxi services. If you prioritize comfort and safety, this is a great choice.
• Bicycle: Many locals use bicycles for transportation, making them an excellent option for tourists who enjoy sports and want to immerse themselves in local life.
• Boat: With its network of crisscrossing rivers, traveling by boat is a popular choice in Can Tho. Many locals even use boats as their homes, giving you a unique opportunity to experience their daily life.

Accommodation

Can Tho is a vibrant tourist city offering a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget:

• Budget-Friendly Guesthouses: If you’re looking for affordable options, guesthouses are a great choice. Prices start from 250,000 to 350,000 VND per night. Notable guesthouses include Thanh Ha Guest House, Queenie House, and Green Sunshine.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Many beautiful hotels are located near Ninh Kieu Wharf, offering reasonable prices ranging from 750,000 to 1,500,000 VND per night. Some popular options are Wink Hotel Can Tho, Iris Hotel, and Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel.
• Luxury Resorts: Can Tho is home to unique ecolodges and resorts in spacious, green environments. These locations are perfect for relaxing getaways and ideal for travelers seeking privacy.

What to eat in Can Tho

Can Tho is renowned for its delicious specialties that you won’t want to miss. If you’re curious about what to eat in Can Tho, be sure to try handmade Can Tho noodles, known for their delightful chewiness, and the hotpot featuring pure specialty fish sauce. The city also offers various dishes made from snails and freshly caught river fish.

Additionally, you can indulge in upscale dinners on cruises or enjoy a hands-on experience with DIY meals like ‘banh xeo’ (Vietnamese Pancake) and fried spring rolls.

What to do in Can Tho at night

If you’re looking for evening activities in Can Tho, consider these experiences:

• Admire Can Tho Bridge: Inaugurated in 2010, this impressive bridge stretches 2,750 meters and is beautifully illuminated with colorful lights at night. Driving across the bridge offers a stunning view of the city after dark.
• Experience the Nightlife at Bars: For those who enjoy a vibrant atmosphere, check out local bars like Tiny Corner Cafe, Dusk Till Dawn, and Indie Beer & Cocktail to immerse yourself in the lively spirit of the Mekong Delta.

Conclusion

Can Tho, as known as ‘Tay Do’ (the capital of Vietnam’s western region), is a bustling city filled with life and vibrant activities. Here, you’ll find countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the charm of this riverine landscape. Don’t hesitate to make your next vacation destination the enchanting Mekong Delta!

If you’re still considering things to do in Can Tho for 2 days, contact Joy Journeys. We’re here to help you create unforgettable experiences!

• Website: joyjourneys.com.vn
• WhatsApp: +84 (0) 868.17.66.79