If you’re looking to explore the lush heart of southern Vietnam, skip the bustle of Saigon and head for Mỹ Tho — a peaceful, palm-fringed city on the banks of the Mekong River. Located just two hours from Ho Chi Minh City, Mỹ Tho is the perfect destination for those seeking floating markets, boat cruises, fruit orchards, and a true taste of the Mekong Delta lifestyle.
Even better, Mỹ Tho is easily accessible from Cambodia, and Camboticket.com makes planning your cross-border journey simple and stress-free.
Why Visit Mỹ Tho?
Mỹ Tho (pronounced “Mee To”) is the capital of Tiền Giang Province and one of the most accessible entry points to the Mekong Delta. It offers a laid-back atmosphere, authentic delta culture, and a great starting point for day trips and river cruises.
Whether you’re coming from Phnom Penh or traveling deeper through southern Vietnam, Mỹ Tho is a scenic and cultural stop worth slowing down for.
Top Things to Do in Mỹ Tho
1. Cruise the Mekong River & Visit Floating Villages
The best way to experience Mỹ Tho is on a Mekong River boat tour. Float past coconut palms, rice paddies, and stilted homes as you explore a web of canals.
Most tours include:
- A visit to Thoi Son Island (Unicorn Island) or Phoenix Island
- Stops at local coconut candy workshops
- Traditional Southern Vietnamese music performances
- Visits to bee farms and tropical fruit gardens
👉 Recommended provider: Mekong Delta Tours – GetYourGuide
2. Explore Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda
This stunning 19th-century Buddhist temple is a must-see in Mỹ Tho. Vĩnh Tràng Pagoda blends Chinese, Khmer, and European architecture with ornate gardens, golden Buddhas, and peaceful lotus ponds.
- Open daily
- Entrance: Free
- Great for photos and a peaceful break from town
3. Taste Authentic Mekong Cuisine
Mỹ Tho is famous for Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, a regional noodle soup made with rice noodles, pork, and seafood in a clear, savory broth. Sample it at any local market stall or riverside eatery.
Other must-try dishes:
- Cá kho tộ (caramelized fish in clay pot)
- Bánh xèo (crispy rice pancakes)
- Fresh tropical fruits like dragon fruit, rambutan, and longan
4. Take a Bicycle Ride Through the Orchards
Rent a bike and ride across narrow village paths shaded by banana trees and coconut palms. Many Mekong homestays offer bicycle rentals and routes through the countryside.
- Ride across monkey bridges
- Visit hidden temples
- Meet friendly locals working on farms or fishing along the canals
5. Stay Overnight in a Local Homestay
Want to wake up to river breezes and birdsong? Spend a night in one of the area’s eco-friendly homestays. Many include meals, boat rides, and traditional cooking classes.
👉 Recommended homestays:
How to Get to Mỹ Tho from Cambodia with Camboticket
Mỹ Tho doesn’t have a major international bus terminal, but it’s very easy to reach via Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) — and Camboticket connects you there from major Cambodian cities.
🚍 Step 1: Travel to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)
Camboticket offers reliable bus and minivan services from:
- Phnom Penh → Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 6–7 hours)
- Siem Reap → Ho Chi Minh City (via Phnom Penh, approx 16 hours)
- Sihanoukville → Ho Chi Minh City (via Phnom Penh, approx 11 hours)
👉 Book your cross-border trip with Camboticket
Step 2: Ho Chi Minh City → Mỹ Tho
From Saigon, you can easily book a local bus, shuttle van, or private transfer to Mỹ Tho:
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Buses depart from Mien Tay Bus Station
- Or, join a full-day tour that includes round-trip transport from HCMC
When to Visit Mỹ Tho
- Best time: November to March (dry season)
- Avoid: Peak rainy season (July to September), although showers are usually brief
Quick Travel Tips
- Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND); exchange easily at the border or in Saigon
- Language: Vietnamese, but many tour guides speak English
- Connectivity: Good 4G coverage; SIM cards available at border and bus stations
- Etiquette: Be respectful in temples, dress modestly, and support local artisans and farmers
Ready to Discover the Heart of the Mekong?
From its tranquil canals to its fragrant floating markets, Mỹ Tho offers a slower, more soulful side of Vietnam. Whether you’re coming from Cambodia for a short getaway or adding it to your Vietnam itinerary, this charming Mekong city is a must-visit.
With Camboticket, crossing borders and planning your journey is just a few clicks away.
👉 Start your trip to Mỹ Tho today with Camboticket.com