For travelers dreaming of lush river landscapes, lively floating markets, and authentic Mekong Delta life, Can Tho is an unmissable destination. As the beating heart of southern Vietnam’s Mekong Delta, Can Tho is famous for its network of waterways, rich culture, and warm hospitality.
The best part? Getting there from Phnom Penh takes between 12 and 13 hours and only costs between $30-$40 with Camboticket.com — making this cross-border adventure a smooth and scenic journey!
Why Visit Can Tho?
Known as the capital of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and local flavor. Whether you’re cruising through early-morning markets or tasting fresh river prawns, the city offers experiences that feel both relaxing and deeply authentic.
1. Cai Rang Floating Market
This is Can Tho’s most iconic attraction and Vietnam’s largest floating market. Wake up early (we mean really early!) to catch local vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and breakfast noodles directly from their boats.
- 🛶 Best time to visit: 5:30 AM – 7:30 AM
- 🍍 Tip: Enjoy a boat tour with a local guide and try a steaming bowl of hu tieu noodles for breakfast on the water!
2. Binh Thuy Ancient House
Step into the past with a visit to this beautifully preserved 19th-century home. The architecture blends French colonial design with traditional Vietnamese style, offering a glimpse into the region’s history.
3. Explore Can Tho’s Riverfront and Night Market
By evening, Can Tho’s river promenade comes alive with lights, street food stalls, and local families enjoying the cool breeze. Try local snacks like banh trang nuong (Vietnamese pizza) or sweet coconut desserts at the night market.
4. Visit Local Orchards and Rice Fields
The fertile Mekong Delta is Vietnam’s agricultural heart. Take a day tour to nearby fruit orchards and rice fields for a deeper understanding of local farming life — and sample the freshest tropical fruits straight from the trees!
5. Eco-tourism and Community Experiences
Can Tho is also growing as a hub for responsible tourism, with eco-lodges and community-based tours offering authentic and sustainable travel experiences. Cycle through peaceful villages, try your hand at traditional fishing, or join a cooking class to learn local recipes.
How to Travel from Phnom Penh to Can Tho
Overland travel from Phnom Penh to Can Tho is not only convenient but also gives you the chance to enjoy scenic views of both Cambodia and Vietnam’s countryside.
🚌 Bus Travel: Phnom Penh → Can Tho
- Journey Duration: Approx. 12-13 hours, including border crossing
- Border Crossing: Bavet/Moc Bai international border gate (visa on arrival available for some nationalities; check requirements in advance)
- Comfort: Air-conditioned buses and comfortable seating
- Stops: Most buses will have comfort stops along the way, and some routes may connect via Ho Chi Minh City
With Camboticket.com, you can compare operators, schedules, and prices to find the best option for your trip!
👉 Book your Phnom Penh to Can Tho bus now
Travel Tips for Phnom Penh to Can Tho Bus Journey
- Prepare for the Border: Have your passport, visa (or e-visa), and cash ready for border processing.
- Pack Snacks & Water: Though buses stop for meals, it’s good to have your own supplies for the journey.
- Currency Exchange: Vietnam uses the Vietnamese Dong (VND). It’s handy to have some cash ready, but ATMs are available in Can Tho.
- Arrival Tip: Can Tho bus stations are centrally located, and taxis or Grab rides are easily available.
Best Time to Visit Can Tho
- Dry Season: December to April — ideal for clear skies and comfortable exploration.
- Floating Market Peak: June to August is harvest season, making markets even more colorful and abundant.
- Rainy Season: May to October — expect lush scenery and fewer tourists, though brief downpours are common.
Why Can Tho Should Be on Your Vietnam Itinerary
Can Tho isn’t just another stop in Vietnam — it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve left. From sunrise moments on the river to flavorful local dishes and heartfelt cultural exchanges, the Mekong Delta comes alive in Can Tho.
And with the ease of booking your bus from Phnom Penh through Camboticket.com, this cross-border adventure is as simple as it is unforgettable.