Can Tho and Ben Tre stand out as two of the most captivating destinations in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Choosing between them can be a delightful dilemma! This guide compares these two incredible places to help you decide which one best suits your travel style, with insights on attractions, logistics, and more.
Comparing Can Tho and Ben Tre
To help you choose between Can Tho or Ben Tre, here’s a detailed side-by-side comparison of key travel aspects:
| Criteria | Can Tho | Ben Tre |
|---|---|---|
| Location & Transportation | Located in the heart of the Mekong Delta with an international airport—very convenient for travelers from Central and Northern Vietnam. | Close to Ho Chi Minh City, only about 2 hours by car, making it ideal for quick getaways. |
| Travel Style | Vibrant city energy mixed with natural charm, full of Instagram-worthy spots and dynamic vibes. | Peaceful, authentic countryside feel, deeply connected to nature and local culture. |
| Key Attractions | Cai Rang Floating Market, Truc Lam Phuong Nam Zen Monastery, Phong Dien Fruit Garden. | Coconut candy villages, Con Phung, Con Quy, local handicraft villages. |
| Accommodation & Facilities | Wide range—from riverside homestays to luxury resorts and high-end hotels. | Primarily garden-style homestays, local guesthouses, and a few eco-resorts. |
| Time Needed to Explore | 2–3 days to fully enjoy the top sights and activities. | Perfect for short trips; 1–2 days is usually enough to see the highlights. |
| Cuisine | Diverse food scene, with upscale restaurants and modern dining options. | Rustic, authentic dishes, featuring local ingredients and farm-to-table experiences. |
Can Tho or Ben Tre: Which is Right for You?
If you’re torn between Ben Tre and Can Tho, ask yourself: What kind of traveler are you?
- Choose Can Tho if you love vibrant city energy, trendy cafés, bustling floating markets, and sprawling eco-parks. Can Tho offers a modern side of the Mekong while still immersing you in river life’s charm.
- Choose Ben Tre if you’re seeking a slow-paced, peaceful escape. Imagine cycling beneath coconut trees, drifting along quiet canals accompanied by the sounds of folk melodies, and truly connecting with the authentic rhythm of Mekong rural life.
Can You Combine Can Tho and Ben Tre in One Trip?
Absolutely! You can experience the best of both worlds in one journey. In just 2 to 4 days, you could travel from Can Tho’s lively vibe to Ben Tre’s tranquil charm. One popular option is the Mekong Delta 2 Days 1 Night Tour, which lets you dive deep into local life, culture, and nature. From sampling tropical fruits in lush orchards to cruising the rivers at sunrise, this kind of tour captures the Mekong’s heart and soul beautifully.
How to Get To & Get Around Can Tho and Ben Tre
Getting to Can Tho
Can Tho is easily accessible by air, road, or river:
- By Air: Daily direct flights connect Can Tho International Airport to major cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- By Road: From Ho Chi Minh City, it’s about 165–170 km. Travel by private car or motorbike for flexibility, or take a comfortable bus.
- By River: Boat cruises along the Mekong River offer a scenic and unique way to reach Can Tho.
Getting to Ben Tre
Ben Tre doesn’t have its own airport. Travelers typically fly into either Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City) or Can Tho International Airport and continue by road:
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Approximately 90 km, about a 2- to 3-hour drive through scenic countryside.
- From Can Tho: Roughly 90 km, depending on your starting point and route.
You can book a private car for comfort or take a local bus for a budget-friendly option. Either way, the journey is smooth and a great start to your Mekong Delta adventure.
FAQs About Can Tho vs. Ben Tre
Is Ben Tre or Can Tho more budget-friendly?
Both are affordable destinations, but Ben Tre is generally cheaper, thanks to its focus on homestays and simpler dining options. Can Tho’s upscale hotels and restaurants can raise costs, though budget options are available.
Which is better for family travel with young children?
Can Tho is more family-friendly, thanks to modern amenities, diverse accommodations, and attractions like fruit orchards that kids enjoy. Ben Tre is fantastic for families with older children who love outdoor activities and cultural experiences.
Should you visit Can Tho or Ben Tre in summer?
Both are great in summer (May–August). Ben Tre’s coconut groves offer cool shade and comfort, while Can Tho’s riverside spots help beat the heat. Summer is also peak tropical fruit season, making either destination extra delicious!
Can you combine Can Tho and Ben Tre in one trip?
Definitely. A 3–4 day itinerary works well. Spend 1–2 days in Can Tho exploring floating markets and vibrant city life, then 1–2 days in Ben Tre relaxing among coconut groves and peaceful canals. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and tranquility.
Which offers more experiential tours—Ben Tre or Can Tho?
Both offer memorable tours, but Can Tho has a broader variety, including iconic floating markets, river cruises, and craft villages. Ben Tre focuses more on hands-on rural experiences like coconut candy making and eco-excursions but has fewer tour operators overall.
Is Can Tho or Ben Tre better during the floating season?
Can Tho is the top choice during the floating season when the Cai Rang Floating Market is at its most vibrant. While Ben Tre’s waterways remain scenic, its attractions are less tied to the floating season’s unique character.
Either way, Can Tho or Ben Tre promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Mekong Delta. Ready to plan your adventure? Let us help craft the perfect itinerary!
