When you visit Can Tho, Vietnam’s lively gateway to the Mekong Delta, it’s not just the scenery that will capture your attention. It’s the food—fresh, flavorful, and often cooked right on the street or on boats drifting along the river. We particularly love tours that combine stunning sunset views with local bites or those that let you explore authentic Mekong cuisine away from the crowds. For example, the Boat tour on Mekong river see the sunset, small canal, Vegan dinner, street food offers a memorable evening on the water, blending scenic beauty with a delicious vegan dinner.
Can Tho’s food scene is deeply tied to its waterways, markets, and street stalls, making it a perfect place for foodies to explore. Whether you prefer a river cruise with sunset views, a local chef-designed walking tour, or a cycling street food adventure, there’s something that will satisfy your curiosity and appetite.
Quick Overview
Our list features diverse options:
– A sunset boat cruise with vegan dinner (Tour #1) — perfect if you want scenic views and a peaceful ride.
– A local-voted food tour with unique dishes like frogs and rats (Tour #2) — for tastings that push your culinary boundaries.
– An authentic street food walking tour designed by a local chef (Tour #3) — ideal for those who want to learn cooking techniques and discover hidden eateries.
– A comprehensive city and food experience combining urban sights and street eats in the afternoon (Tour #4) — great for a well-rounded city day.
– A walking foodie tour exploring the best local spots (Tour #5) — suited for those who want to explore on foot.
– A bike-based street food tour along the Mekong’s back roads (Tour #6) — perfect for active travelers.
– And a premium, lively street food tour called “Wrap & Roll”, emphasizing local street snacks and vibrant city scenes (Tour #7).
Let’s explore each in detail so you can pick the one that best suits your taste and travel style.
1. Boat tour on Mekong river see the sunset, small canal, Vegan dinner, street food
At number 1, this boat tour on the Mekong River offers a relaxing three- to four-hour experience that combines scenic sunset views with authentic Mekong Delta sights. The tour begins at the Winter Spring hotel around 4:15 pm, with the boat boarding from Ninh Kieu ferry around 4:30 pm. As you drift past the Can Tho Bridge, small canals, and brickyards, you’ll get a peaceful perspective of the river life.
During the sunset, the views of the Mekong River’s winding waterways are especially stunning, with the sky turning fiery orange. The boat then navigates through smaller channels, giving you a glimpse of local industries and village life. The highlight for many is the vegan dinner served at a local restaurant, offering plant-based Vietnamese dishes that are both flavorful and satisfying. After dinner, the tour visits Phat Hoc and Muniransay pagodas, where you can walk around and sample street foods at nearby stalls.
This tour is praised for its intimate setting—often just small groups or private bookings—and the knowledgeable English-speaking guide who shares insights about the region. Reviewers love the combination of scenic sunset, cultural visits, and street food sampling.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a tranquil river experience with a focus on scenery, culture, and a wholesome vegan dinner.
2. Can Tho food tour voted by local – Vegan option is available
Number 2 on our list is the Can Tho food tour voted by locals, which offers a rich taste of Can Tho’s culinary favorites. For about $38.43, the three-hour tour takes you to carefully selected spots that locals swear by. The tour includes dishes like Vietnamese pancakes, fried frogs, and even fried rats, reflecting the region’s culinary diversity.
The itinerary starts at a local restaurant where you try pork rolls wrapped with fresh veggies and rice paper, then progresses through markets and street stalls to sample eggplant in clay pot. The tour is not shy about pushing boundaries—frog and rat dishes are on the menu, but these are considered delicacies for many local residents, making this a true taste of regional authenticity. It also includes tropical smoothies or soy milk, perfect for cooling down.
What makes this tour stand out is the local-voted status—these are dishes favored by residents, not travelers. The guide’s storytelling adds depth, often sharing the history behind each dish. Reviewers mention the “delicious and unusual delicacies” and call it a highlight of their Vietnam trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for adventurous eaters eager to try authentic Mekong cuisine and learn about food culture directly from locals.
3. Can Tho: Walking street food tour designed by local chef
Number 3 is the Walking street food tour, crafted by a local chef with a passion for sharing traditional recipes. For approximately $42, this 3.5-hour experience combines walking with stops at street stalls and small eateries, all located within easy strolling distance.
The tour kicks off in Tan An and takes you through bustling streets, visiting markets, and hidden alleyways that travelers often overlook. Highlights include street food tastings at four different stops, from savory snacks to sweet desserts, with a focus on regional specialties like cocoa-based treats and regional street food. You’ll learn about how local dishes are prepared and the history behind each flavor profile.
This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy a hands-on approach, with opportunities to watch cooking techniques and even participate in some food preparations. The guide, a local chef, shares insights about the culinary influences that shape Can Tho’s street food scene. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity and attentiveness of the guide, especially noting the discovery of less touristy spots.
Bottom Line: Excellent for food lovers who want to enjoy the local street food culture while walking through Can Tho’s lively neighborhoods.
4. Explore Can Tho City tour combine Local Food tour – in afternoon
Number 4 offers a combination of city sightseeing and food tasting in a relaxed afternoon setting. For $35, the tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, and includes visits to Can Tho University, An Binh market, and Ninh Kieu Quay. You’ll enjoy Vietnamese spring rolls, grapefruit pudding, and crab noodles along the way, with stops at famous local eateries.
The itinerary also features cultural visits to sites like Ong Pagoda and Munirangsyaram Pagoda, blending spiritual and culinary experiences. The tour concludes with an exploration of the night market, where you can sample street snacks and desserts. It’s suitable for travelers who want a mix of sightseeing and local food without rushing.
Reviewers mention this tour’s great value and its ability to offer a comprehensive city experience. The added visits to markets and temples provide context and a deeper understanding of Can Tho’s daily life.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a full city day that balances culture, sights, and street food in one relaxed tour.
5. Can Tho Foodie Walking Tour
Number 5 is the Can Tho Foodie Walking Tour, a dedicated walk through the city’s best local food spots. For $45, it offers a deep dive into Can Tho’s culinary scene, with four distinct stops that highlight hidden eateries and local drink culture.
Designed for those who want to explore on foot, this tour emphasizes authentic flavors and culinary techniques. Your guide ensures you experience the city’s vibrant street life and discover specialty dishes often missed by travelers. Reviewers praise the tour for its all-inclusive approach and the chance to experience local drinks alongside food tastings.
This walking tour is ideal for curious food lovers who prefer to explore small alleys and local markets over large restaurants. Expect a friendly guide sharing stories behind each dish, making it more than just a tasting—it’s an immersion.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who prioritize walking exploration and want an authentic local food experience.
$45 per person
6. Street food tour back of the bike in Can Tho
Number 6 takes you on a bike tour of Can Tho’s back roads. For about $39, this four-hour journey offers a slow-paced, scenic look at local food production and street eating. The tour begins with a pickup at your hotel, then heads to Cai Rang and Cu Lao, sampling Vietnamese pancakes and sugar cane juice, two Mekong specialties.
You’ll cycle through small villages and markets, gaining insight into how local dishes are made with ingredients sourced directly from the farms. The tour includes a visit to Cu Lao island hotpot, a regional favorite featuring pork and vegetables in a hotpot style. Later, you’ll sample steamed sticky rice with coconut and hot soy milk at the Can Tho Museum.
This tour appeals to active travelers who want to blend exercise with culinary discovery. The reviews mention the friendly guides and the authentic experience of riding through the countryside. It’s excellent for those who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to see the Mekong Delta from a different perspective.
Bottom Line: Ideal if you’re looking for a bike adventure that combines sightseeing with local food sampling.
$39.00 per person
7. Premium Can Tho Food Tour – “Wrap & Roll”
Number 7 is the “Wrap & Roll” tour, a lively street food experience priced at $29. It highlights the bustling street scenes of Can Tho and local snacks. The tour lasts about three hours, starting at Ninh Kieu and walking through popular food spots.
This tour emphasizes local street snacks and the interactions with vendors that bring Can Tho’s street scene alive. You’ll try regional specialties, watch vendors craft their dishes, and learn about the city’s culinary culture in a casual, energetic setting. The reviews note the friendly guides and the fun, engaging atmosphere.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a short but lively introduction to Can Tho’s street food. The tour’s affordability and focus on vibrant city life make it a good choice for budget-conscious visitors or those with limited time.
Bottom Line: A fun, energetic tour that captures the essence of Can Tho’s street food scene in just a few hours.
$29 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Food Tour in Can Tho
Choosing the right food tour in Can Tho depends on your interests, fitness level, and how much time you want to spend. If scenic views and a peaceful evening appeal, the sunset boat cruise offers a calming, picturesque experience.
For culinary adventure, the local voted tour’s inclusion of unusual dishes like frogs and rats provides a true regional taste. If you prefer walking, the Chef-designed street food tour allows you to explore canny local eateries and learn cooking techniques.
Active travelers might enjoy the bike tour for a scenic, physical journey through the countryside, while those on a budget or in a hurry may find the “Wrap & Roll” tour the best value.
In general, consider your willingness to try adventurous foods, your preferred pace, and whether you want a scenic cruise, walking, or biking experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred date.
To sum it up, Can Tho offers a variety of food tours that cater to different interests—from tranquil sunset boat rides to lively street food walks. For an unforgettable culinary adventure, consider trying a few options: the boat tour for scenery, the local-voted dishes for authenticity, or the street food walk for an immersive experience. Whichever you choose, these tours promise a delicious, memorable way to experience the Mekong Delta. Happy eating!