Can Tho, the vibrant heart of Vietnam's Mekong Delta, beckons travelers with its lush landscapes and lively culture. Located in southern Vietnam, this charming city is the largest in the delta region and serves as a gateway to the area’s unique waterways and floating markets. Known for its picturesque riverside views and warm hospitality, Can Tho offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from bustling markets to serene boat tours.
Population: Approximately 1.5 millions in 2024.
Economy: With two industrial parks and a sizable freshwater port, the city has developed over the course of 120 years to become the delta's most significant hub for economy, culture, science, and technology.
Landmarks: Famous for the Cai Rang Floating Market, Binh Thuy Ancient House, and Can Tho Bridge.
Vietnam
Can Tho's history is a tapestry woven with the threads of various cultural influences. Originally a small river town, it has grown into a bustling city while preserving its traditional charm. The region was significantly impacted by the French colonial period, which left an imprint on its architecture and urban layout. Cultural influences from the Khmer and Cham civilizations are evident in local festivals, crafts, and temples. This blend of traditions creates a unique cultural atmosphere, making Can Tho a living museum of Vietnam’s rich past.
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Can Tho, a bustling city in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, has a population of approximately 1.5 million people. The city's residents are a diverse mix of ethnic Vietnamese and various minority groups, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry. Can Tho’s citizens are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome as they explore the city’s vibrant markets, historical sites, and scenic waterways. This dynamic population adds to the city’s charm and offers an authentic glimpse into life in the Mekong Delta.
Ninh Kieu, Can Tho - © Tan Dao
Binh Thuy Ancient House - © Tuoi Tre News
Are you in love with Vietnamese cuisine? Learn more about the popular dishes in Vietnam's old capital, Hue, in this article.
Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Pancake) - © Knorr
Can Tho is a city that celebrates its traditions with vibrant festivals and local celebrations. These events offer a glimpse into the region’s cultural heritage and provide opportunities for visitors to join in the festivities.
The Cai Rang Floating Market Festival takes place annually during the Lunar New Year and the harvest season, celebrating Can Tho’s famous floating market. The festival is a lively event where local merchants decorate their boats with colorful flags and flowers. Visitors can experience the bustling market atmosphere, enjoy local dishes cooked on the boats, and watch traditional music and dance performances that highlight the region’s cultural traditions.
The Banh Xeo Festival, which takes place in Can Tho, pays tribute to the popular Vietnamese pancake. This festival, which usually takes place in late spring, showcases cooking demonstrations and tastings of Banh Xeo. Attendees can learn about the preparation of these crispy pancakes, which are filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts, and enjoy various regional variations. The festival also features local entertainment, including traditional music and dance.
The Nghinh Ong Festival, which takes place in late September or early October, is a traditional celebration honoring the whale, who is revered as the protector spirit of fisherman. The festival involves a maritime procession where locals pay respects to the whale deity. Participants offer ceremonial offerings on boats, perform traditional rituals, and join in festive activities, including folk games and traditional music.
Cai Rang Floating Market Festival - © The World and Vietnam Report
Can Tho offers a range of activities that cater to diverse interests, from exploring its waterways to engaging in local traditions.
Can Tho’s shopping scene offers a mix of traditional markets and modern retail options, making it easy for visitors to find unique souvenirs and local products.
Mekong Delta Boat Tours - © Vietnam Tourism
Understanding Can Tho’s weather patterns is essential for planning your visit. The city experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons, each offering a unique experience.
The dry season is the perfect period to visit southern Vietnam regions, including My Tho. Read our article about My Tho here.
The optimal time to visit Can Tho is during the dry season, from December to April, when the weather is more predictable and ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The pleasant conditions enhance your experience at the city’s attractions and markets. If you prefer a quieter visit and don’t mind occasional rain, the wet season can also be enjoyable, offering a different perspective of Can Tho’s natural beauty and local life.
Dry season in Can Tho made the best oranges - © Vietnam Tourism
Navigating Can Tho is convenient with various transportation options catering to different needs and preferences.
Accessing banking services in Can Tho is straightforward with a variety of options available for both locals and tourists. Numerous banks provide services including cash withdrawals, currency exchange, and account management. ATMs are prevalent throughout the city, particularly in popular areas like the city center and shopping districts, and most accept international credit and debit cards for convenient cash withdrawals. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, smaller vendors and street food stalls may only accept cash.
Can Tho offers a diverse range of accommodation options to cater to various preferences and budgets, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses. For those seeking luxury, there are upscale hotels along the Hau River that blend modern amenities with traditional Vietnamese charm, featuring spacious rooms, large pools, and multiple dining options. Mid-range hotels provide comfortable stays with well-furnished rooms, restaurants, and fitness centers, conveniently located for exploring the city. Budget travelers can choose from guesthouses and hostels that offer basic amenities and a more local experience. Additionally, homestays are available, providing an authentic glimpse into daily life in Can Tho and the opportunity to experience local hospitality.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s southeastern corner, Yala National Park is where wild nature meets deep tradition. Known worldwide for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. Beyond wildlife, Yala opens doors to a cultural landscape dotted with ancient temples, Buddhist ruins, and coastal villages. For travelers seeking more than just a safari, Yala offers a chance to explore eco-tourism, local communities, and sacred heritage sites.
Population: The Yala National Park area doesn’t have a human population.
Economy: The economy around Yala National Park thrives on a blend of eco-tourism, agriculture, and local services. Safari tours, eco-lodges, and cultural experiences drive steady income for nearby towns like Tissamaharama and Kataragama, supporting thousands of families.
Landmarks: Famous for Block I of Yala and wildlife encounters, including elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and exotic bird species.
Nestled on Sri Lanka’s southern coastline, Galle is a vibrant city where history meets the sea. Its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and serene beaches make it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking a blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Galle captivates visitors with its Dutch Fort, bustling markets, and friendly locals. Whether you’re exploring the ramparts at sunset or savoring fresh seafood by the shore, Galle promises an unforgettable journey into Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Population: Approximately 113,000 in 2023.
Economy: Galle’s economy thrives on tourism, trade, and fisheries. The city’s historic fort, colonial architecture, and coastal charm draw thousands of international visitors each year, making tourism its main economic driver. Fishing remains vital for local livelihoods, supplying fresh seafood across the region.
Landmarks: Famous for the Galle Fort, Dutch Reformed Church & Maritime Museum, and Unawatuna Beach.
Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Bentota is a tropical paradise that blends golden beaches, vibrant culture, and thrilling adventures. Famous for its calm waters, luxury resorts, and scenic river estuary, Bentota has become a top destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and authentic experiences. From serene beach walks at sunrise to adrenaline-pumping water sports, this coastal town offers a perfect balance of leisure and exploration. With its proximity to Colombo and Galle, Bentota is easy to reach, making it an ideal stop for both short escapes and extended holidays.
Population: Approximately 37,000 in 2023.
Economy: Bentota’s economy thrives mainly on tourism, which drives local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and wellness retreats. The town also benefits from fishing, coconut cultivation, and handicrafts like wood carving and batik textiles. Many residents rely on the growing demand for water sports and Ayurvedic treatments, making tourism the backbone of both income and employment in the area.
Landmarks: Famous for Bentota Beach, Bentota River Safari, and Kande Vihara Temple.
Mirissa is a charming coastal town on Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline. Known for its golden beaches, turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, it has become a must-visit stop for travelers exploring the island. Many come for whale watching, surfing, and sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill, but Mirissa offers much more than postcard beauty. The fishing boats you see anchored by the bay carry generations of stories. Local traditions, delicious cuisine, and a laid-back rhythm of life shape every visitor’s experience.
Population: Approximately 4,700 in 2023.
Economy: Mirissa’s economy is largely shaped by its coastal location. Fishing has long been the backbone of local livelihoods, with generations relying on the Indian Ocean for income. In recent decades, tourism has become the main driver of growth, thanks to whale watching, surfing, and beachside hospitality.
Landmarks: Famous for Mirissa Beach, Coconut Tree Hill, and Parrot Rock Bridge.
Tucked away in the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is often called “Little England”. With its rolling tea plantations, cool misty mornings, and colonial charm, this mountain town feels like a step into another world. Travelers come here to breathe fresh air, walk through flower gardens, sip the finest Ceylon Tea, and enjoy a pace of life far from the island’s busy cities. Whether you’re drawn by scenic landscapes, heritage architecture, or the warmth of its people, Nuwara Eliya is a destination that blends nature, culture, and history in perfect harmony.
Population: Approximately 781,000 in 2023.
Economy: Nuwara Eliya’s economy thrives mainly on tea production, as it sits in the heart of Sri Lanka’s central highlands, famous worldwide for Ceylon Tea. The city also benefits from a growing tourism industry, attracting visitors with its colonial charm, cool climate, and scenic landscapes.
Landmarks: Famous for Gregory Lake, Hakgala Botanical Garden, and Victoria Park.
Nestled on the banks of the Kinabatangan River in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo, Sukau is a destination where wildlife, culture, and conservation come together. Known as one of Asia’s top spots for river safaris and eco-tourism, this quiet village offers a front-row seat to encounters with Bornean orangutans, pygmy elephants, proboscis monkeys, and exotic birdlife.
Population: Approximately 1,400 in 2019.
Economy: Sukau’s economy is shaped by its riverine location and natural resources. Traditionally, the Orang Sungai community relied on fishing, small-scale farming, and forest gathering for their livelihood. Today, the village has shifted toward eco-tourism, with river cruises, jungle trekking, and homestays providing income.
Landmarks: Famous for the Kinabatangan River cruises, Gomantong Caves, and Ox-bow lakes and wetlands.