Unveil Mekong Delta's Trading Hub In Cai Rang Floating Market
Located in Can Tho City, is a unique spot in the culture and tourism of the Southwest region of Vietnam. One of the largest floating markets on Can Tho River, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere of sailor life and enjoy a variety of items from specialties to daily products, creates a fun and unique experience.
Cai Rang Floating Market
Overview About Cai Rang Floating Market
- Address: 46 Hai Ba Trung Street, Ninh Kieu District, Can Tho City.
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours to the public every day.
- Price tickets: Free
The Cai Rang Floating Market was recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage in 2016. Formed in the early 20th century, the Cai Rang Floating Market primarily trades agricultural products, fruits, and specialties from the Mekong Delta region.
Colorful Boats In Cai Rang Floating Market
Located right at the confluence of the Hau River and Cai Rang River branches. Because it is located in a prime location, the water is shallow rather than deep, creating favorable conditions for boats to anchor. Gradually, more and more boats came to anchor here and it became an extremely bustling floating market.
Things To Do At Cai Rang Floating Market
Enjoy A Scenic Boat Tour
Tourists can take boat tours around the floating market to get a closer look at the bustling activity and picturesque surroundings of the Mekong River.
Embark On An Exciting Boat trip
These boat tours often include visits to nearby villages, orchards, and traditional craft workshops, allowing visitors to experience the rich biodiversity and cultural heritage of the region.
Here is the reference boat rental price.
Number Of Guests | Prices (Per Boat) |
1 - 7 | Around US $20.3 |
7 - 15 | Around US $24.3 |
16 - 30 | Around US $28.4 |
31 - 40 | Around US $32.4 |
Over 40 | Around US $36.5 |
Try Delicious Foods Right On The Boat
Cai Rang Floating Market offers an excellent opportunity to indulge in authentic Mekong Delta cuisine. Many boats at the market serve freshly cooked dishes right on board, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique dining experience amidst the lively atmosphere of the floating market.
Here are some must-try dishes that BestPrice recommends to you:
Hu Tieu
The most famous is the delicious Western specialty noodle soup that every tourist wants to enjoy.
Visitors can choose from many different types of noodles depending on their taste. A delicious bowl of noodles with noodles, pork, green onions, bean sprouts, and broth.
- Price: around US $0.8 to $1.7.
Enjoy The Authentic Taste Of Hu Tieu
Bun Rieu
Bun Rieu is a tangy and savory noodle soup known for its rich and flavorful broth made from tomatoes, crab paste, and various aromatic herbs and spices. The soup is typically filled with tender crab meat, tofu, and sometimes pork or shrimp.
With its combination of sweet, sour, and umami flavors, Bun Rieu offers a satisfying and comforting dining experience.
- Price: around US $1 to $2.
Bun Rieu - One Of The Most Attractive Dish
Fresh Fruits
Cai Rang Floating Market is renowned for its abundant selection of fresh tropical fruits. Visitors can enjoy a colorful array of fruits such as mangoes, pineapples, dragon fruits, and pomelos, all sourced directly from local orchards.
Try The Most Fresh Tropical Fruits
Listen To Vietnam Traditional Music “Don Ca Tai Tu”
One of the most unique aspects of the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho is that every weekend (Saturday and Sunday), there is a boat of Don Ca Tai Tu performers that cruises along the river to entertain locals and tourists alike.
Have The Chance To Enjoy The Traditional Don Ca Tai Tu
Accompanied by an ensemble of traditional instruments such as the zither, monochord, and moon-shaped lute, skilled musicians serve visitors with melodic songs.
How To Get There
Motorbike Rental
Below are some suggestions for convenient and reliable travel options.
Brand & Contact | Price (Per Day) |
Dong Ha (0911773978) | US $3.3 - $6.5 |
Anh Vu Motel (0939688898) | US $3.3 - $6.6 |
Giang Anh (0941961164) | US $3.4 - $6.5 |
The journey by motorbike takes approximately 15 - 20 minutes to travel from Can Tho central to Cai Rang Floating Market. You can rent a motorbike from rental shops in Can Tho above or through your accommodation. Simply navigate using GPS or ask locals for directions to the Cai Rang Floating Market.
Motorbike offers flexibility in exploring the surrounding areas and stopping at other attractions along the way. Suitable for adventure-seekers and budget travelers. However, you need to have a full driver's license and be knowledgeable about Vietnamese traffic.
By Taxi
- Price: From US $0.3 to $7 per kilometer.
It might take around 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, to get to Cai Rang Floating Market from Can Tho Central. You can easily hail a taxi on the main street or use online apps to book a taxi.
Taxis provide more comfortable travel conditions, especially in the hot weather of summer. But it has a higher price compared to other transportation.
Visit Nearby Interesting Attractions
After exploring Cai Rang Market, you can pay a visit to the nearby attractions below, which offer unique insights into the history, culture, and architecture of Can Tho.
Binh Thuy Ancient House
- Address: 142/144 Bui Huu Nghia Street - Binh Thuy Ward - Binh Thuy District.
- Opening hours: Daily from 08:00 to 12:00 and from 14:00 to 18:00.
- Ticket price: Around US $0.6.
Admire The Stunning Architecture Of Binh Thuy Ancient House
This place is a well-preserved 19th-century mansion showcasing French colonial architecture blended with Vietnamese cultural elements.
Visitors can explore the elegant interiors, lush gardens, and antique furnishings, gaining insights into the wealthy lifestyle of the Nguyen family.
Can Tho Museum
- Address: 1 Hoa Binh Avenue, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District.
- Opening hours:
Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: From 08:00 to 11:00 and from 14:00 to 17:00.
Saturday, Sunday, Holidays: From 08:00 to 11:00.
- Ticket price: Around US $1.2.
Pay A Visit To Can Tho Museum
Can Tho Museum include artifacts, photographs, and multimedia displays depicting the region's rich heritage, traditional customs, and economic development.
Visitors can learn about local industries such as agriculture, fishing, and handicrafts, as well as the role of Can Tho in shaping the cultural landscape of Southern Vietnam.
Local Tips When Exploring Cai Rang Floating Market
- Suggested Time
The appropriate time for you to explore the Cai Rang Floating Market in Can Tho is from December to April of the following year because it is always sunny and has little rain, so it is easy to visit the market. From 06:00 to 08:00 is the appropriate time to go to the floating market.
- Beware Of Scams
Be vigilant and cautious when dealing with vendors. Negotiate prices beforehand, clarify any additional fees, and avoid making impulsive purchases. Seek recommendations from locals to ensure a fair and enjoyable experience.
- Wear A Life Jacket
Ensure your safety by wearing a life jacket while traveling on boats at Cai Rang Floating Market, especially if you're not a confident swimmer. Life jackets can potentially save your life from an accident or emergency.