No curious traveller should miss the chance to explore Vietnam’s captivating Mekong Delta. Scattered along the banks of the mighty Mekong River are vibrant towns bathed in endless blue skies, bursting with tropical fruits, and alive with bustling markets, serene temples, and remnants of colonial charm. This region invites you to sway in a hammock under the shade of coconut palms or gently glide along tranquil canals in a traditional sampan. It’s here that you’ll savour some of Vietnam’s most unforgettable dishes and encounter the country’s warmest hospitality — from welcoming locals to the diverse ethnic communities living harmoniously on the water. For those with a spirit of adventure, here are five must-visit destinations in the Mekong Delta.
Can Tho: Gateway to the Mekong Delta
Can Tho is the perfect starting point for exploring Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Though it’s the fourth-largest city in Vietnam, Can Tho maintains a relaxed, riverside charm. Visitors can enjoy boat rides through peaceful canals, visit traditional workshops, and stay in rustic homestays with serene water views.
A must-see is the Cai Rang Floating Market, best visited around 6 AM. Watch boats piled high with tropical fruits like pineapple and durian trading on the river, while smaller rowboats serve coffee and steaming bowls of hu tieu — the region’s signature noodle soup.
Tip: Ask your hotel about smaller, less touristy floating markets nearby for a more authentic experience.
Cai Be: Authentic Charm in the Mekong Delta
Cai Be is a peaceful riverside town that remains off the typical tourist trail, making it a hidden gem in the Mekong Delta. The highlight here is Tan Phong Islet, a lush island surrounded by the Tien River. A short ferry ride takes you to this quiet, canal-lined paradise, where locals grow rambutan, mangosteen, and other tropical fruits. Explore the islet by sampan or bike to experience local life and the region’s natural beauty up close.
On the mainland, Cai Be Market comes alive at dawn. Ride a bike past the colorful Cai Be Church and the Cao Dai Temple, or simply enjoy the small-town rhythms of ferry crossings and school children on their morning commutes. Don’t miss the local flavors — from ginger candy and fresh banh mi to banh canh noodles and just-picked fruit. And if you need a break? Follow local tradition: relax in a hammock and let time slow down.
Chau Doc: Cultural Crossroads of the Mekong Delta
Located near the Cambodian border, Chau Doc is a vibrant riverside town where diverse cultures blend seamlessly. Set along the Hau (Bassac) River, Chau Doc is known for its bustling market, where boats unload produce from distant provinces. The market is a sensory delight — fragrant flowers, fermented fish, palm nuts, and tamarinds fill the air, while colorful shop signs showcase goods from gold to sandals.
Food lovers shouldn’t miss bun ca Chau Doc, a turmeric-laced fish noodle soup made with fermented fish paste, banana blossoms, and điên điển flowers — a unique Mekong Delta specialty found right on the street outside the market.
Chau Doc is also a spiritual mosaic. The town is home to Cham mosques, Khmer pagodas, and Vietnamese temples. The most famous is the Ba Chua Xu Temple on Sam Mountain, a major pilgrimage site especially busy during the annual April festival. For a quieter experience, visit Chua Hang (Cave Pagoda), nestled in the hillside, where panoramic views stretch across rice fields to the Cambodian border.
Sa Dec: A Romantic Town Steeped in History and Flowers
Sa Dec is one of the most charming towns in the Mekong Delta, known for its literary legacy and blooming beauty. French author Marguerite Duras set her famous novel The Lover here, and the historic home of her real-life muse, Huynh Thuy Le, still stands. Open to visitors, the 1895 mansion showcases colonial-era architecture, antique furnishings, and a timeless atmosphere that brings the story to life.
Stroll along Sa Dec’s peaceful riverside streets to discover more colonial mansions, ornate temples, and traditional shopfronts — all echoing the town’s rich past.
At the heart of town, Sa Dec Market buzzes with fresh produce and local flavors. Behind it, boats load and unload directly from the river, offering a glimpse into daily Mekong life. Just a short ride away, Sa Dec’s famous flower villages spread across greenhouses and open fields, filled with vibrant blooms and photo spots designed for visitors.
Quieter than other Delta towns, Sa Dec wins hearts with its old-world charm, colorful gardens, and lasting romance.
Ben Tre: Coconut Capital of the Mekong Delta
Just a short drive from Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Tre is one of the most accessible towns in the Mekong Delta — perfect for a day trip or a quiet riverside getaway. Known for its peaceful canals and abundant coconut groves, Ben Tre offers a laid-back escape filled with authentic Delta charm.
A highlight here is a boat ride through palm-lined waterways, often including a stop at a coconut candy workshop, where visitors can sample treats and see how they’re made. For a deeper experience, hop on a bicycle and explore the countryside, where you’ll find mat weaving villages, brick kilns, and tranquil canals ideal for a sampan ride.
Don’t miss the local specialty — fried elephant ear fish, served with fresh herbs, pineapple, cucumber, and rice noodles, wrapped in rice paper and dipped in sweet fish sauce.
Tip: Short on time? Book a one-day tour with a trusted provider like SaigonTourist, which includes round-trip transport, two boat rides, a countryside house visit, and a delicious lunch — all guided by professional, English-speaking guides.