My Tho, Vietnam’s Essential River Life, Floating Markets & Coconut Candy (2025)
While 85% of Mekong Delta visitors rush straight to Can Tho, My Tho offers the same authentic river culture just 70 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City without the tourist crowds. Here, you’ll find family-run sampan boats waiting to navigate narrow canals where water coconut palms create natural tunnels, elderly women hand-making coconut candy using century-old techniques, and floating markets where commerce happens over morning bowls of hu tieu noodles. This is the Mekong experience travelers imagine – just closer, cheaper, and more intimate.
Why My Tho, Vietnam Stands Out
Serene sunset over Rach Mieu Bridge and river in Mỹ Tho, My Tho, Vietnam
- Historic Architecture: Vinh Trang Pagoda (1849) blends Vietnamese, Chinese, and European styles with giant Buddha statues in lush gardens
- Cultural Scene: Traditional Don Ca Tai Tu music performed on river islands by local families preserving Southern Vietnamese folk art
- Local Specialties: Hu Tieu My Tho – the city’s signature clear broth noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and quail eggs
Pro Tip: Visit between December and April during the dry season when water levels are ideal for boat trips, and arrive at the boat docks by 7:30 AM to beat both the heat and the day-trip crowds from Ho Chi Minh City.
Map of My Tho, Vietnam
Use these interactive maps to explore My Tho, Vietnam and plan your route:
📍 View My Tho, Vietnam on OpenStreetMap
🗺️ Open My Tho, Vietnam in Google Maps
Planning Your Trip: Practical Essentials
Getting There and Around
- By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, served by Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, and international carriers. Take a 2-hour bus or private car to My Tho. Book flights at Skyscanner for best deals.
- By Train: No direct rail service to My Tho; nearest station is in Ho Chi Minh City with connections throughout Vietnam. Reserve tickets at Trainline or the national railway website.
- By Car: National Highway 1A connects Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho (70km, 1.5-2 hours). Limited parking in city center. Compare car rentals at RentalCars.com.
- Local Transport: Xe om (motorbike taxis) for short trips (15,000-30,000 VND), cyclos for leisurely tours, and private boats for island hopping (300,000-500,000 VND for half-day).
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from December to April offers ideal conditions for exploring the Mekong Delta, with comfortable temperatures and lower humidity making boat trips and island visits most enjoyable.
| Season | Weather | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun–Aug) | 28-34°C, high humidity, afternoon showers | Lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, floating markets active despite rains |
| Winter (Dec–Feb) | 22-28°C, low humidity, minimal rainfall | Perfect boat weather, clear skies for photography, peak fruit season |
| Shoulder (Apr–May/Sep–Oct) | 26-32°C, moderate humidity, occasional rain | Best value accommodations, comfortable exploration, local festivals |
Budgeting for My Tho, Vietnam
A woman in a traditional Ao Dai crosses a bustling street in Gia Lai, Vietnam., My Tho, Vietnam
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 250,000-400,000 VND/night | 600,000-1,200,000 VND/night | 1,500,000+ VND/night |
| Meals | 30,000-80,000 VND/meal | 100,000-200,000 VND/meal | 300,000+ VND/meal |
| Transport | 20,000-50,000 VND/day (local) | 500,000 VND (private car half-day) | 1,000,000+ VND (private boat) |
| Activities | Free temples, walking tours | 300,000 VND (group boat tour) | 800,000 VND (private guided tour) |
| Daily Total | 400,000-600,000 VND | 1,200,000-2,000,000 VND | 3,000,000+ VND |
Top Attractions and Must-See Sights
| Attraction | Description | Hours | Entry Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vinh Trang Pagoda | Ornate 19th-century Buddhist temple blending Asian and European architectural styles | 7:30 AM-5:30 PM | Free (donations appreciated) |
| My Tho River Boat Tour | Traditional sampan ride through narrow canals to four famous islands | 7 AM-4 PM | 300,000-500,000 VND |
| Coconut Candy Workshop | See traditional candy-making process using local coconuts on Ben Tre Island | 8 AM-5 PM | Free (purchase candy) |
| Dong Tam Snake Farm | Unique conservation area with venom extraction demonstrations and traditional medicine | 7 AM-5 PM | 100,000 VND |
3-Day Itinerary: My Tho, Vietnam’s Highlights & Hidden Gems
Day 1: River Life & Island Discovery
- Morning: 7:30 AM private boat tour (400,000 VND) from My Tho pier to Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix Islands. Navigate narrow canals by traditional rowboat (50,000 VND extra) through water coconut forests.
- Afternoon: Visit coconut candy workshop on Ben Tre and sample fresh tropical fruits at local orchard. Lunch at Ut Trinh Restaurant (120,000 VND) for elephant ear fish and spring rolls.
- Evening: Sunset walk along My Tho River promenade followed by dinner at Nam Bo Restaurant overlooking the water, trying their hu tieu My Tho (85,000 VND).
Day 2: Culture & History Immersion
- Morning: 8 AM visit to Vinh Trang Pagoda (free) to see the 18-meter Buddha statue and ornate architecture. Continue to nearby Khmer pagodas for cultural contrast.
- Afternoon: Explore My Tho Market’s food section for local delicacies and Dong Tam Snake Farm (100,000 VND). Lunch at Com Nieu Thanh for claypot rice (75,000 VND).
- Evening: Traditional Don Ca Tai Tu music performance at a local cultural center (150,000 VND) followed by street food dinner at Night Market along Trung Trac Street.
Day 3: Local Life & Craft Villages
- Morning: Motorbike tour (250,000 VND) to surrounding villages to see rice paper making, coconut processing, and mat weaving traditions. Stop at local coffee shop for Vietnamese iced coffee (25,000 VND).
- Afternoon: Boat to fishing villages along Mekong tributaries and visit floating fish farms. Lunch at family-run restaurant on An Khanh Island with fresh river prawns (140,000 VND).
- Evening: Final Mekong sunset cruise (200,000 VND) before farewell dinner at Song Tien Restaurant with caramelized fish in claypot (110,000 VND).
Cultural Insights & Etiquette
- Language: Basic Vietnamese phrases appreciated: “Xin chào” (hello), “Cám ơn” (thank you), “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (how much?)
- Customs: Remove shoes before entering homes and temples; use both hands when giving/receiving items; avoid public displays of affection
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated (5-10% in restaurants, 50,000 VND for guides, 20,000 VND for drivers)
- Dress Code: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees for temples; light, breathable fabrics for humid climate
- Business Hours: Shops 7 AM-9 PM, government offices 7:30 AM-4:30 PM (closed 11:30 AM-1:30 PM), banks until 3:30 PM weekdays
Where to Eat: My Tho, Vietnam’s Best Bites
My Tho’s culinary scene revolves around fresh river ingredients and Chinese-Vietnamese fusion, with family-run establishments often serving the most authentic versions of local specialties passed down through generations.
Must-Try Local Specialties
- Hu Tieu My Tho: The city’s signature clear broth noodle soup with pork, shrimp, quail eggs and fresh herbs – best at Hu Tieu Chay 92 or street stalls near the market
- Ca Tai Tuong Chien Xu: Whole elephant ear fish deep-fried and served with rice paper, herbs and tamarind sauce – specialty at Ut Trinh Restaurant
- Banh Trang My Tho: Unique rice crackers with shrimp, sesame and spring onions – perfect souvenir from local markets
Restaurant Recommendations by Budget
| Type | Restaurant | Specialty | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Hu Tieu 44 (44 Thu Khoa Huan) | Classic hu tieu noodles | 35,000-60,000 VND |
| Mid-range | Nam Bo Restaurant (28 30/4 Street) | River-view dining with local dishes | 120,000-250,000 VND |
| Fine dining | Song Tien Restaurant (101 Trung Trac) | Upscale Mekong cuisine | 300,000-600,000 VND |
Where to Stay
Accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to comfortable riverside hotels, with the most convenient locations near the city center for easy access to boat piers and markets. Compare prices and book at Booking.com or Airbnb for apartments.
Best Neighborhoods for Accommodation
- City Center: Walking distance to boat piers, night market and restaurants – ideal for first-time visitors wanting convenience
- Riverside: Scenic views and cooler breezes but slightly further from main attractions – perfect for romantic getaways
- Outskirts: Quieter, more local experience with homestay options – best for immersive cultural experiences
Person in traditional attire by the iconic Japanese Bridge in Hoi An, Vietnam., My Tho, Vietnam
FAQs: Your My Tho, Vietnam Questions Answered
1. Is My Tho, Vietnam safe at night?
My Tho is generally very safe at night, especially in the city center and tourist areas. However, travelers should take normal precautions like avoiding poorly lit alleys and securing valuables. The riverfront area is particularly pleasant for evening strolls with families and couples enjoying the cooler air.
2. What currency is used and are credit cards accepted?
Vietnamese Dong (VND) is the official currency. While larger hotels and upscale restaurants accept credit cards, most local establishments, markets, and boat operators are cash-only. ATMs are widely available in the city center, and you’ll get better exchange rates withdrawing local currency rather than bringing foreign cash.
3. How do I get from the airport to the city center?
From Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, take a bus (150,000 VND, 2 hours), private car (800,000-1,200,000 VND, 1.5 hours), or join a shared transfer. Buses depart regularly from the airport bus station. Book airport transfers at GetYourGuide for convenience.
4. Do I need to speak the local language?
While Vietnamese is the official language, basic English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Learning a few simple phrases will be appreciated by locals. Boat operators and market vendors often use calculators to show prices if language becomes a barrier.
5. What’s the appropriate dress code?
Light, breathable clothing is essential due to the tropical climate. For temple visits, cover shoulders and knees. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring islands and markets. A light rain jacket is wise during the wet season, and sun protection is necessary year-round.
Final Thoughts: My Tho, Vietnam Awaits
My Tho delivers the authentic Mekong Delta experience many travelers seek – intimate river encounters, generations-old food traditions, and genuine local hospitality – without the crowds of larger delta cities. Here, you’ll discover the rhythm of river life that has sustained this region for centuries, from morning markets to sunset fishing boats. Savvy travelers know to extend beyond a day trip, allowing time to wander smaller canals, learn family recipes, and understand why this region is called Vietnam’s “rice bowl.” Don’t miss the simple pleasure of sipping fresh coconut water straight from the fruit while floating through water coconut forests – this is the magic that makes My Tho unforgettable.
