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.
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.