Photo courtesy of Tuoi Tre

A two-day visit to Can Tho offers travellers a relaxed introduction to Mekong Delta life, combining the Cai Rang floating market, fruit gardens, local food, handmade chocolate and the quiet hospitality of Son Islet.

An early start on the river

The itinerary promoted by Can Tho’s Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism begins at about 5.30am with a boat ride from Ninh Kieu Wharf to Cai Rang floating market. Boats carrying agricultural produce gather on the river as vendors and visitors begin the day.

Travellers can watch trading from small boats while drinking coffee or eating a hot bowl of hu tieu, the rice-noodle soup closely associated with southern Vietnam. The river scene provides an immediate view of the commercial traditions that have shaped life in the delta.

From the market, visitors can continue to Ong De Ecotourism Village. Fruit gardens, southern-style cakes and group activities offer a taste of rural life, while dishes including banh xeo, river shrimp with banana blossom and meat-stuffed apple snails showcase local flavours.

After returning to central Can Tho, an evening walk along Ninh Kieu Wharf gives visitors views of the city illuminated after dark.

From cocoa gardens to Son Islet

The second day can begin at Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, noted for its spacious grounds, peaceful atmosphere and distinctive architecture.

At Muoi Cuong Cocoa Garden, guests can see how locally grown cocoa beans are processed into cocoa butter, cocoa powder and chocolate. Garden owner Lam The Cuong said cocoa trees produce fruit throughout the year and can grow alongside jackfruit and mangosteen trees. Visitors may watch his demonstration and try making chocolate themselves.

The route then continues to Son Islet, where rural paths, floating fish farms and family gardens reveal a slower side of the delta. Visitors can sample fresh fruit, make traditional cakes, speak with residents and finish the experience with rustic dishes such as grilled snakehead fish.

Can Tho builds short tourism experiences

The city has developed short tours centred on ecotourism, cuisine and waterways as it works to attract more Vietnamese and international visitors. The compact two-day format makes the trip suitable for families and groups who want a varied programme without rushing between distant destinations.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

Foreign residents and visitors can experience several of the Mekong Delta’s best-known attractions in one short trip. An early departure is essential for Cai Rang market, while arranging transport or a local guide in advance can make it easier to connect the river, garden and islet stops.

2 September 2026

Took a boat down the Mekong from Pnom Penh to Can Tho back in 2003. What a great time.

Saw the floating markets and people living the river life. There was no chocolate industry in Vietnam at the time. May have to go back and check it out.

Thailand

Mekong river life ✅

floating markets (tourist traps) ✅

fruit gardens (all you can eat) ✅

local food (better than Vietnamese food) ✅

handmade chocolate ✅

quiet hospitality ❓ depends

Conclusion: Empty pursuit of everything I already have here in Thailand 🪹