MEKONG DELTA
The Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s “Rice Bowl,” a lush, fertile labyrinth where the mighty Mekong River splinters into countless tributaries before meeting the sea. Life here flows with the water, marked by bustling floating markets and endless, emerald rice paddies.
This region is a vibrant tapestry of nature and human endeavor, known for its warm, gracious people and rich cultural blend of Vietnamese, Khmer, and Cham influences. It is a slow, soulful retreat into the heart of southern Vietnam.
Most Popular Attractions
River Life & Marketplaces
Cai Rang Floating Market (Chợ Nổi Cái Răng): The largest and most famous floating market, near Can Tho, best visited early morning.
Cai Be Floating Market (Chợ Nổi Cái Bè): A smaller, often quieter floating market in the Tien Giang province.
Ninh Kieu Wharf (Bến Ninh Kiều): A picturesque riverside park and promenade in Can Tho, famous for sunset views.
Boat Trip on the Canals (Đi ghe trên kênh): A quintessential Delta experience, exploring narrow, shaded tributaries by sampan boat.
Fruit Orchards (Vườn cây ăn trái): Tour and taste tropical fruits like rambutan, durian, and mango at places like Cai Be or Ben Tre.
Coconut Candy Workshops (Lò kẹo dừa): Visit local factories in Ben Tre to see how the famous coconut sweets are made.
Rice Noodle Factory (Lò Hủ Tiếu): Observe the traditional, labor-intensive process of making rice vermicelli by hand in Can Tho.
Local Ferry Rides (Phà địa phương): Taking a local ferry is an authentic way to experience the daily transport and river views.
Handicraft Workshops: Visit small family-run businesses making things like rice paper, popcorn, or bricks.
Local Wet Markets (Chợ địa phương): Explore the land-based, bustling markets in any major town for local produce and street food.
Nature & Eco-Tourism
Tra Su Cajuput Forest (Rừng Tràm Trà Sư): An immense, stunningly green flooded forest and bird sanctuary near Chau Doc.
Tram Chim National Park (Vườn quốc gia Tràm Chim): A massive wetland famous for rare bird species, including the Red-headed Crane.
Xeo Quyt Forest (Rừng Xẻo Quýt): A historical resistance base hidden in a beautiful cajuput swamp forest in Dong Thap.
Bang Lang Stork Sanctuary (Vườn cò Bằng Lăng): A vast area near Can Tho where thousands of storks gather, best seen at dusk or dawn.
Mui Ca Mau (Mũi Cà Mau): The southernmost tip of Vietnam, marked by a symbolic ship statue and a dense mangrove forest.
Tan Lap Floating Village (Làng nổi Tân Lập): An eco-tourism site in Long An province with long walking paths through a cajuput forest.
Cultural & Historical Sites
Vinh Trang Pagoda (Chùa Vĩnh Tràng): A beautiful, important Buddhist temple in My Tho that blends Vietnamese, Chinese, and European architectural styles.
Sam Mountain (Núi Sam): More of a large hill near Chau Doc, a pilgrimage site with many temples and stunning panoramic views of the flat delta.
Huynh Thuy Le Ancient House (Nhà cổ Huỳnh Thủy Lê): A beautifully preserved colonial-era house in Sa Dec, famous as the setting for the novel The Lover.
Binh Thuy Ancient House (Nhà cổ Bình Thủy): A magnificent French colonial-style house in Can Tho with a blend of Eastern and Western design.
Ba Chua Xu Temple (Miếu Bà Chúa Xứ): A grand and highly significant temple at the foot of Sam Mountain, dedicated to a regional goddess.
Ong Temple (Chùa Ông): A vibrant, Chinese-style temple in Can Tho, known for its large, spiraling incense coils.
Khmer Pagodas (Chùa Khmer): Visit temples like Chua Doi (Bat Pagoda) in Soc Trang for its unique architecture and colony of large fruit bats.
Activities & Experiences
Explore the Cái Răng Floating Market (Cái Răng pronounced: Kai Rang): Wake up before dawn to witness one of the region’s largest and most vibrant floating markets near Cần Thơ. Hire a small boat to navigate among the vendors selling fruit, vegetables, and local goods.
Cycle Through Peaceful Villages and Orchards: Rent a bike in places like Bến Tre or Vĩnh Long and cycle along the narrow concrete paths, passing lush fruit orchards, paddy fields, and meeting friendly locals.
Take a Boat Trip on the Cửu Long River: Navigate the small, winding canals and tributaries (rạch and kênh) of the main Mekong river (Sông Cửu Long) to discover hidden jungle tunnels and local life on the water.
Visit a Coconut Candy Workshop in Bến Tre: See how the famous sticky, sweet kẹo dừa (Kerr-yoh Zoo-ah) is made from start to finish, and try fresh samples. Bến Tre is the coconut capital of Vietnam.
Stay Overnight on a Homestay or in an Ancient House: Experience genuine delta hospitality by staying with a local family or in a traditional, well-preserved house in towns like Sa Đéc or Cần Thơ.
Sample Local Cuisine on an Eatery Crawl: Try regional specialties like Bánh Xèo (savory Vietnamese pancake), Hủ Tiếu (clear noodle soup), and the exotic chuột đồng (field rat, a local delicacy) in a bustling street market.
Discover the Tràm Chim National Park in Đồng Tháp: Go birdwatching in this vast wetland reserve, especially during the dry season, to see rare species like the majestic Sarus Crane (though sightings are rare).
Walk the Mangrove Forest and Bird Sanctuary of Rừng Tràm Trà Sư (Rừng Tràm Trà Sư pronounced: Roong Tram Trah Soo): Take a small sampan deep into this stunning flooded forest in An Giang, famous for its thick canopy and diverse birdlife.
Learn to Cook Mekong Dishes: Join a hands-on cooking class to master the balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors characteristic of Southern Vietnamese food.
Visit the Pagodas of Sóc Trăng: Explore the vibrant, unique architecture of the Khmer Krom pagodas in this province, such as the Chùa Dơi (Bat Pagoda), reflecting the region’s diverse cultural heritage.
Spend an Afternoon at a Fruit Orchard: Stop at a local miệt vườn (fruit garden) to pick and taste tropical fruits like rambutan, mangosteen, durian, and jackfruit right off the tree.
Local Tips & Transport
Hiring a Private Driver or Taxi: For covering large distances between provinces (like Cần Thơ to Châu Đốc), a private car or taxi is the most comfortable and fastest option. Agree on the fare beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Motorbike is King: Renting a motorbike is the ultimate way to explore the tiny, winding paths of the delta, giving you full flexibility. However, only do this if you are a confident and licensed rider.
Local Buses and Minivans: A network of affordable local buses and sleeper buses (Phan Thiết) connects the major delta cities and provides services to and from Ho Chi Minh City. This is the most budget-friendly option.
River Travel (The Local Way): While not the fastest, traveling by local ferry or small river boat is an authentic experience and the only way to reach some smaller islands and villages. Look for local boat taxis at ports and markets.
Flights to Cần Thơ: The Cần Thơ International Airport (VCA) offers a convenient entry point for the heart of the delta, with direct flights from various domestic locations like Hanoi.
Châu Đốc: This border town near Cambodia is a melting pot of cultures. Visit the Miếu Bà Chúa Xứ (Ba Chua Xu Temple), a major pilgrimage site, and see the traditional stilt houses of the Cham minority community along the river.
Sa Đéc: Explore the beautiful, haunting backdrop for the novel The Lover by Marguerite Duras. Visit the Huỳnh Thủy Lê Old House and the peaceful, winding canals.
Tasting the “Đuông dừa” (Coconut Worm): This is a true local delicacy—large, creamy coconut beetle larvae. If you’re feeling adventurous, many vendors serve them alive with a spicy dipping sauce.
The Rice Paper Villages of Đồng Tháp: Visit small family operations where they make thin, delicate rice paper for spring rolls by hand, a fascinating look into the region’s agricultural industry.
Top Restaurants
Quán Bánh Xèo 7 Tới (Bảy Tới) [$2-$4] – (Can Tho – pronounced: “Kwan Banh Say-oh Bay Toy”) A beloved, rustic spot famous for its giant, crispy Mekong Delta-style Bánh Xèo (savory pancake) served with fresh herbs and fish sauce.
Bánh Xèo Cô Diệu [$2-$4] – (My Tho) Known for its small, perfectly crispy, and savory Bánh Xèo with a generous filling of shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.
Bánh Xèo Mười Xiêm [$2-$5] – (Vinh Long) A very popular Bánh Xèo shop, particularly noted for its varied filling options and use of fresh coconut milk in the batter for extra richness.
Bánh Xèo Dì Ba [$2-$4] – (Sa Dec, Dong Thap) A highly-rated local vendor serving an excellent version of the classic pancake with a very thin, perfectly crispy edge.
Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho Chú 5 Hoà [$2-$3] – (My Tho – pronounced: “Hoo Tee-oo My Taw Choo Num Wah”) A very popular, long-standing, and authentic spot in My Tho specializing in the city’s signature noodle soup.
Hủ Tiếu Sáu Sen [$2-$3] – (My Tho) Another excellent local Hủ Tiếu institution, praised for its rich, clear broth and high-quality ingredients.
Hủ Tiếu Cây Xăng [$2-$4] – (Can Tho) A non-descript spot often frequented by locals, specializing in Hủ Tiếu Nam Vang (Phnom Penh-style noodle soup).
Hủ Tiếu Bà Ngoại (Grandma’s Hủ Tiếu) [$2-$3] – (Can Tho) A small stall with a generations-old recipe for Hủ Tiếu, popular for its simple, traditional flavors.
Bún Nước Lèo Sóc Trăng Phi Long [$2-$3] – (Can Tho) A highly-recommended local eatery specializing in Bún Nước Lèo (noodle soup with fish broth and pickled river fish), a specialty from Sóc Trăng.
Quán Cơm Tấm Thủy [$2-$4] – (Can Tho) A fantastic local eatery serving Cơm Tấm (broken rice with grilled pork chop, egg, and shredded pork skin), a popular Southern Vietnamese staple.
Bún Riêu Cua 90 [$2-$3] – (Can Tho) Known for its flavorful and authentic Bún Riêu Cua (crab and tomato noodle soup) with fresh crab paste.
Cơm Gà Xối Mỡ 9A [$3-$5] – (Can Tho) A local favorite for its crispy-skinned fried chicken (Gà Xối Mỡ) served over seasoned rice.
Bún Thịt Nướng A Sĩ [$2-$4] – (Chau Doc) A solid choice for Bún Thịt Nướng (vermicelli with grilled pork and spring rolls) in the Chau Doc area.
Quán Cá Lóc Nướng Trui (Unnamed) [$4-$8] – (Can Tho – near the river area) Seek out one of the small, nameless spots where you can watch the whole snakehead fish (Cá Lóc) being grilled over straw and served with fresh herbs.
Quán Lẩu Mắm Dạ Lý [$5-$10 per person] – (Can Tho) Famous for its Lẩu Mắm (fermented fish hotpot), a pungent and iconic Mekong Delta communal dish, served with a massive platter of local vegetables.
Bánh Cống Út Mật [$2-$4] – (Can Tho) Specializes in Bánh Cống (savory fried shrimp cakes made from rice flour, taro, and mung beans), a quintessential Can Tho snack.
Lẩu Cá Kèo 86 [$4-$8 per person] – (Can Tho) A popular local spot for Lẩu Cá Kèo (Goby fish hotpot), a savory-sour hotpot featuring the small, long river fish.
Quán Ăn Cánh Đồng [$5-$10] – (My Tho outskirts) A traditional garden-style restaurant focusing on fresh river fish and classic Delta dishes in a relaxed, rural setting.
Quán Ăn Chiều [$4-$8] – (Chau Doc) A go-to place for local fish dishes and regional specialties, including stir-fried frog and spicy catfish hotpot.
Nhà Hàng Hoa Sứ [$6-$15] – (Can Tho) A large, established riverside restaurant in the Cái Khế tourist area that, while popular, remains a local go-to for its range of Delta specialties, including Fried Elephant Ear Fish.
Nhà Hàng Hải Sản Sông Tiền [$5-$10] – (My Tho) A riverside seafood restaurant offering fresh catches and classic Vietnamese dishes with a pleasant view of the Tiền River.
Nhà Hàng Mekong Xanh [$5-$10] – (Vinh Long) Set in a pleasant location, this restaurant offers a wide menu of regional food, catering to families and groups looking for a comfortable meal.
Quán Ăn Vườn Xoài [$4-$8] – (Can Tho) A garden-style eatery popular with locals for its spacious setting and menu of grilled meats and local hotpots.
Nhà Hàng Cây Bàng [$5-$10] – (Chau Doc) A reliable and well-regarded restaurant near Sam Mountain, known for its diverse menu of local An Giang province dishes.
Quán Ăn Bến Tre [$3-$6] – (Ben Tre) A simple but authentic restaurant that highlights Ben Tre’s famous coconut-based dishes and local specialties.
Quán Cơm Cần Thơ [$3-$6] – (Can Tho) Specializing in flavorful local rice dishes and set meals, a great place for a quick, hearty, and authentic lunch.
Bò Tơ Quán Phát Đạt [$5-$10 per person] – (Can Tho) A popular place focusing on young beef (Bò Tơ) prepared in various Southern Vietnamese styles, often grilled or served in hotpot.
Bánh Tằm Bì Phượng [$2-$3] – (Can Tho) A highly local spot specializing in Bánh Tằm Bì (thick rice and tapioca noodles with coconut milk and fish sauce, topped with pork and shredded pig skin). A must-try regional specialty.
Tiệm Bánh Pía Tân Huê Viên [$1-$5 for snacks] – (Soc Trang) While mainly a shop, it’s the most famous place to buy Bánh Pía (layered pastry with sweet filling, often durian or mung bean), the iconic dessert of Sóc Trăng province.
Cháo Vịt Thanh Xuân [$3-$6] – (Can Tho) A local favourite for Cháo Vịt (Duck Congee), which is often served with a side of delicious, simple duck salad (Gỏi Vịt).
Quán Bún Mắm 35 [$3-$5] – (Can Tho) A popular, no-frills location that locals swear by for an authentic, intensely flavorful bowl of Bún Mắm (fermented fish noodle soup).
Lẩu Mắm Cần Thơ Bách Tùng [$5-$10 per person] – (Can Tho) An alternative but equally beloved spot for Lẩu Mắm hotpot, known for its fresh ingredients and rich broth.
Quán Bánh Khọt Cô Ba [$2-$4] – (Can Tho) A small, dedicated spot making perfect Bánh Khọt (mini crispy pancakes) with fresh shrimp and a light coconut milk topping.
Bánh Chuối Nếp Nướng Ông Già [$1-$2] – (Ben Tre or My Tho street stalls) Search for a street vendor (often called ‘Ông Già’ or ‘Bà Già’ – Old Man/Woman) selling Chuối Nếp Nướng (grilled banana wrapped in sticky rice), a delicious sweet snack.
Bánh Da Lợn Chợ [$1-$3 for assorted sweets] – (Any large local market – pronounced: “Banh Za Lun Chuh”) Seek out a stall in a local wet market selling Bánh Da Lợn (steamed layer cake) and other colorful Mekong Delta sweets made with coconut milk and pandan.
Bánh Bò Thốt Nốt Vĩnh Thạnh [$1-$2] – (Chau Doc) A famous small shop specializing in Bánh Bò Thốt Nốt (palm sugar sponge cake), a delicacy of An Giang province.
Gỏi Cuốn Chị Ba [$1-$3] – (Can Tho street stalls) Look for a simple, busy street stall making fresh Gỏi Cuốn (fresh spring rolls), often served with a rich peanut dipping sauce.
Nhà Hàng Le Longanier [$15-$30] – (Cai Be – pronounced: “Leh Long-an-yair”) Located in a beautiful French colonial villa surrounded by fruit plantations, this lunch-only spot (often part of a tour/cruise) offers an elegant set menu featuring Delta specialties like Elephant Ear Fish.
Nhà Hàng L’Escale [$15-$30] – (Can Tho – inside Nam Bo Boutique Hotel) Located on the top floor overlooking the river, offering a mix of refined French and Vietnamese cuisine in a romantic setting.
Nhà Hàng Sao Hôm [$10-$25] – (Can Tho) Located on Ninh Kieu riverside, this restaurant in the historic Nhà Lồng Cổ (old market hall) offers a slightly more formal dining experience with excellent local and international dishes.
Nhà Hàng Khách Sạn Victoria Núi Sam (Victoria Nui Sam) [$10-$20] – (Chau Doc – Sam Mountain) Offers refined Vietnamese and Western food with stunning, panoramic views of the Mekong Delta rice fields from the mountainside.
Nhà Hàng Cửu Long (Cuu Long) [$8-$15] – (Can Tho) A solid mid-range option with a spacious interior, offering reliable versions of Southern Vietnamese and Delta classics, popular for business and family gatherings.
Nhà Hàng Bốn Phương [$8-$15] – (Can Tho) Known for its extensive menu of Vietnamese food, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients, often catering to a slightly more affluent local crowd.
Nhà Hàng Hưng Lợi [$10-$20] – (Can Tho) An established seafood restaurant known for the quality of its fresh catches and local river fish preparations.
Chợ Nổi Cái Răng [$1-$3] – (Cai Rang Floating Market, Can Tho – pronounced: “Chuh Noy Kai Rang”) Not a restaurant, but the quintessential floating market experience. You can buy bowls of Phở or Hủ Tiếu from vendors cooking on their boats.
Chợ Đêm Ninh Kiều [$1-$5] – (Ninh Kieu Night Market, Can Tho) The best place for street snacks, grilled seafood, fresh fruit, and light meals. Look for stalls selling grilled corn, skewers, and local sweet soups (Chè).
Chợ Mỹ Tho [$1-$4] – (My Tho Market) A vibrant local market where you can find endless small stalls selling breakfast items like Bánh Mì, Xôi (sticky rice), and regional cakes like Bánh Lá Dừa (coconut leaf cake).
Tiệm Bánh Mì Lộc Phát [$1-$2] – (Can Tho) A highly-rated, local Bánh Mì shop famous for its fresh baguettes and hearty fillings.
Quán Chè Bưởi (Pomelo Sweet Soup Stall) [$1-$2] – (Can Tho) Look for a stall specializing in Chè Bưởi (sweet soup made from pomelo pith, mung beans, and coconut milk), a refreshing and unique Delta dessert.
Gỏi Cuốn – Bà Út [$1-$2] – (Chau Doc) A small, popular street vendor or cart known for its fresh, perfectly rolled Gỏi Cuốn with a flavorful dipping sauce.
Bánh Khọt Cô Kim [$2-$4] – (My Tho) A small, local gem for Bánh Khọt known for its crispiness and authentic taste.
Món Ăn Vặt Lề Đường (Street Snack Stalls) [$1-$3] – (Around schools or busy local parks in the evenings) Search for vendors selling Bột Chiên (fried rice flour cakes) or Trứng Cút Lộn Xào Me (quail eggs stir-fried with tamarind sauce).
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Sense Sky Bar (Cần Thơ): Located on the rooftop of the Vinpearl Hotel in the city center, this sophisticated bar offers panoramic views of the Hậu River (Hau River) and a selection of classic and signature cocktails.
Mekong Lounge (Cần Thơ): A relaxed, stylish venue often found within a prominent hotel near the riverfront, offering a calm atmosphere perfect for enjoying a classic gin and tonic or a local fruit-infused drink.
The Alley Bar (Cần Thơ): Tucked away in a small alley off a main street in the Ninh Kiều district, this cozy spot is known for its craft beers but also mixes a mean cocktail.
Hải Đăng Bar (Cần Thơ) (Pronunciation: High Dang): A popular local watering hole situated close to the city’s main walking street, offering a lively, unpretentious atmosphere and simple mixed drinks.
Long Xuyên Night Bar (Long Xuyên): Found near the central market area, this establishment is a go-to for locals seeking an affordable, vibrant street-side experience with basic cocktails and music.
Ninh Kiều Riverside Bar (Cần Thơ): Part of a hotel complex right on the Ninh Kiều Wharf, this bar provides a beautiful setting for a sunset cocktail with the river boats passing by.
Café 108 (Cần Thơ): More of a chic café by day, this central spot transforms into a pleasant evening venue, serving basic spirits and cocktails in a relaxed, well-decorated setting.
Gác Lửng Bar (Long Xuyên) (Pronunciation: Gak Luhng): A small, intimate bar found in the heart of Long Xuyên, focusing on simple yet satisfying classic cocktails and a chill vibe.
Bình Minh Lounge (Cần Thơ) (Pronunciation: Bin Min): A comfortable lounge bar, often within a mid-range hotel, providing a quiet escape from the bustle and known for its pleasant service and reliable drinks menu.
Iris Sky Bar (Cần Thơ): Situated atop the Iris Hotel, this bar provides another vantage point for viewing the city, specializing in colorful, tropical-inspired cocktails.
Riverside View Cocktail (Sa Đéc): A smaller, local establishment in the Sa Đéc area known for its relaxed patio seating and offering a simple menu of mixed drinks overlooking a quieter stretch of the river.
Green Oasis Bar (Cần Thơ): A spot slightly outside the immediate central tourist area, popular for its garden setting and casual approach to classic cocktails.
Phố Đêm Bar (Long Xuyên) (Pronunciation: Foe Dem): Translates to “Night Street Bar,” this no-frills location is popular with young locals in Long Xuyên for an energetic, budget-friendly drink.
The Fox Den (Cần Thơ): Known for a more Western, pub-like feel, this centrally located bar offers a greater selection of spirits and can mix a decent range of classic cocktails.
Cần Thơ Viewpoint (Cần Thơ): Found in the high-rise area of the city, this spot is sought out for its altitude, offering good views along with standard cocktail choices.
V18 Club (Cần Thơ): Considered one of the largest and most popular nightclubs in the city, centrally located and known for its loud commercial dance music, flashing lights, and vibrant energy.
Can Tho Nightclub (Cần Thơ): A mainstay in the city’s nightlife, this club is famous for hosting local DJs and being packed on weekends with a mix of commercial EDM and Vietnamese pop music.
XO Club (Long Xuyên): The premier, high-energy dance club in Long Xuyên, attracting a younger crowd with its modern sound system, laser show, and playing heavy beats.
Sky Club (Cần Thơ): Located a few floors up in a central building, this venue provides a mix of a lounge feel with a high-energy dance floor, offering bottle service and a strong focus on house and EDM.
Khu Vui Chơi (Long Xuyên) (Pronunciation: Koo Voo-ee Choy, meaning “Amusement Area”): A vast entertainment complex often featuring a designated, loud club area known for its local music hits and late closing time.
2000 Club (Cần Thơ): A long-standing institution in Cần Thơ nightlife, popular for its nostalgic feel and playing a mix of Vietnamese pop, K-Pop, and commercial dance hits.
F3 Club (Cần Thơ): A trendy spot that caters to a hip, younger crowd, offering themed nights and focusing on a mix of hip-hop and chart music in a relatively modern setting.
The Underground (Long Xuyên): A slightly more alternative club venue in Long Xuyên, sometimes featuring live rock bands or focusing on harder EDM genres, popular with university students.
Galaxy Night (Cần Thơ): A medium-sized club in the center of Cần Thơ, known for its friendly staff and a popular spot for groups celebrating special occasions with a mix of pop and dance music.
Bar Boss (Cần Thơ): While also offering basic cocktails, this venue transitions into a full-blown club atmosphere late in the evening, featuring a sizable dance floor and a DJ spinning commercial hits.
Mega Club (Rạch Giá): A larger, modern club located in the nearby city of Rạch Giá (often visited by people from the delta) known for its impressive light shows and VIP sections.