Located in the center of the lush Mekong Delta in Vietnam, My Tho is a mesmerizing location that skillfully combines culture, history, and scenic beauty. Known as the gateway to the Mekong River, this bustling riverside city offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant life of the Delta. My Tho is more than just a starting point for boat tours—it’s a destination rich with experiences that cater to history enthusiasts, food lovers, and those seeking an authentic slice of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re drawn by its cultural heritage, its culinary delights, or the warmth of its people, My Tho promises a journey filled with discovery and wonder.
Population: Approximately 230,000 in 2022.
Economy: My Tho's economy thrives on agriculture, particularly fruit and fish farming. It also benefits from tourism and local markets, contributing to its vibrant and growing economic landscape.
Landmarks: Famous for Thoi Son Island, Vinh Trang Pagoda, and Mekong River.
Vietnam
My Tho’s history is as rich and diverse as the Mekong Delta itself. Founded in the late 17th century, My Tho has long been a strategic location due to its proximity to the Mekong River. This waterway has been a lifeline for the region, supporting trade, agriculture, and daily life for centuries. Over the years, My Tho has seen the influence of various cultures, including Chinese, Khmer, and French, each leaving its mark on the city’s architecture, traditions, and way of life. The presence of these diverse cultural influences has shaped My Tho into a city where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously.
The population of the city is a mixture of many ethnic groups, with tiny populations of Chinese, Khmer, and Cham people living with the majority of Kinh (Vietnamese). The citizens of My Tho are known for their warmth and hospitality, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Many locals engage in agriculture, fishing, and trade, with a strong connection to the Mekong River, which plays a central role in their daily lives and traditions.
My Tho at night - © Vietnam Tourism
My Tho offers a variety of attractions that cater to diverse interests, making it a must-visit destination in the Mekong Delta.
Beyond the well-trodden paths, My Tho hides several lesser-known attractions that offer unique and authentic experiences.
Interested in exploring more hidden gems across the Mekong Delta? Learn about Vinh Long, a popular place for adventurous tourists, here.
Vinh Trang Pagoda - © Vietnam Tourism
My Tho is a culinary gem in the Mekong Delta, offering an array of local dishes that reflect the rich agricultural and cultural heritage of the region.
Ca Kho To (Vietnamese Braised Fish) - © Cơm Niêu Như Ngọc
My Tho’s festivals are a vibrant reflection of its cultural heritage, offering visitors a chance to experience the city’s traditions firsthand.
In addition to the larger festivals, My Tho hosts several smaller celebrations that provide insight into the local culture.
Each floating market has its own unique features and interesting vendors. Read more about Cho Gao, one of the places that is well-known for its floating markets, here.
Floating Market Gathering - © Vietnam Tourism
Shopping in My Tho offers an authentic experience, with bustling markets full of local flavor and unique finds.
Mekong River Boat Tours - © BenTreOnline
My Tho, located in the Mekong Delta, experiences a tropical climate characterized by distinct dry and rainy seasons. Understanding these seasonal changes can help you arrange your visit so that you get the most out of it.
The dry season is a favourable time to visit many regions in southern Vietnam, such as Cai Be and My Tho. Learn more about Cai Be here.
Wet Season in My Tho - © VOV
Getting to My Tho
Getting Around My Tho
Travel to My Tho and experience all the magnificence of this land - © Vietnam Finance Magazine
My Tho is well-equipped with ATMs that accept major international cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, and are conveniently located outside banks, shopping centers, and markets. Many mid-range to high-end hotels also offer ATM services for guests. For banking needs and currency exchange, several banks are available in the city. Currency exchange services are readily accessible at banks and authorized counters, with US dollars being widely accepted.
Nestled in the misty highlands of northern Laos, Xiangkhouang is a province where ancient legends meet living heritage. Home to the enigmatic Plain of Jars, Xiangkhouang invites travelers to step off the beaten path and uncover a land shaped by war, resilience, and timeless traditions. Whether you’re an explorer drawn to megalithic wonders, a cultural traveler seeking human connection, or a nature lover craving serene landscapes, Xiangkhouang promises something uniquely unforgettable.
Population: Approximately 278,000 in 2025.
Economy: Xiangkhouang’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, tourism, and small-scale trade. The fertile plains and cooler climate support many types of crops and livestock farming. In recent years, tourism has emerged as a growing sector, thanks to the Plain of Jars and eco-cultural experiences attracting both domestic and international travelers.
Landmarks: Famous for the Plain of Jars, Muang Khoun, and Tad Ka Waterfall.
Nestled in Japan's scenic Tohoku region, Fukushima offers travelers a unique blend of historical charm, cultural richness, and natural beauty. Known for its stunning landscapes and welcoming communities, Fukushima is an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic Japanese experience beyond the bustling metropolises. Renowned for its diverse attractions, from ancient castles and hot springs to vibrant festivals and picturesque countryside, Fukushima offers a great opportunity for cultural and historical exploration for anyone who loves Japanese culture.
Population: Approximately 1.8 million in 2023.
Economy: Specializing in the seafood and fishing industries, Fukushima, with its historical impacts, now continues to thrive as one of the most developed and largest economies in Japan.
Landmarks: Famous for Aizu-Wakamatsu Castle, Fukushima City Historical Museum, and Ouchi-juku.
Floating gently in the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea, Miyajima, officially known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most treasured islands. Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, this peaceful destination draws travelers with its spiritual energy, ancient shrines, and wild-yet-gentle sacred deer that roam freely. Renowned for the iconic floating Torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, Miyajima blends centuries of Shinto belief, Buddhist tradition, and natural beauty into one unforgettable journey.
Population: Approximately 1,500 in 2019.
Economy: Miyajima’s economy is deeply rooted in tourism. Visitors fuel local businesses such as traditional inns (ryokan), souvenir shops, street food vendors, and ferry services.
Landmarks: Famous for Itsukushima Shrine and the Floating Torii Gate, Mount Misen, and the Daisho-in Temple.
Anuradhapura is not just a place to visit, it’s a place to feel. Nestled in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites travelers to walk among sacred stupas, ancient ruins, and vibrant rituals that span over two millennia. Known as one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, Anuradhapura blends religious reverence, royal history, and everyday village life. Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, a history lover, or a curious wanderer, this ancient city offers a deep and memorable journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s cultural identity.
Population: Approximately 950,000 in 2022.
Economy: Anuradhapura’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, religious tourism, and small-scale trade. The region is known for rice farming, supported by ancient irrigation systems. Tourism, linked to its UNESCO World Heritage status, also plays a vital role, in supporting local businesses, guides, and hospitality services.
Landmarks: Famous for the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and Jetavanaramaya Monastery.
Polonnaruwa isn’t just a place but a journey back in time. Tucked in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wonderland of ancient ruins, sacred temples, and royal architecture that whisper tales of a grand past. Once a thriving capital of Sinhalese kings and a center of Buddhist learning, Polonnaruwa today blends history, serenity, and cultural charm. Explore majestic stone carvings, cycle through peaceful landscapes, and connect with locals who embody Sri Lanka’s warm spirit. With every step, you'll uncover layers of a story that spans centuries.
Population: Approximately 450,000 in 2022.
Economy: Polonnaruwa’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, especially rice cultivation, supported by ancient irrigation systems like Parakrama Samudra. Tourism also plays a key role, with small-scale trading, handicrafts, and local services contributing to the town’s economic fabric.
Landmarks: Famous for the Gal Vihara, Parakrama Samudra, and The Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu I.
Tucked away in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Dambulla is more than a stopover—it’s a window into the island’s spiritual soul. This town is best known for the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that guards over two millennia of Buddhist art and devotion. But beyond its famed rock shrines lies a land of rolling hills, vibrant markets, and friendly locals. Just a short drive from Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Cultural Triangle, it’s the perfect base to explore the heart of Sri Lanka.
Population: Approximately 72,000 in 2022.
Economy: Dambulla’s economy thrives on agriculture, tourism, and trade as a major hub in Sri Lanka’s vegetable and fruit supply chain. Tourism also plays a key role in local crafts, hospitality, and transport services, further supporting the regional economy.
Landmarks: Famous for the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and The Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre.