Things To Do
in Mỹ Tho
Mỹ Tho is the provincial capital of Tiền Giang in the Mekong Delta, situated along the Mỹ Tho River. It serves as a welcoming gateway to the Cai Be and Cai Mon regions, with riverside markets, fruit orchards, and colonial-era architecture. The city is compact and easy to explore on foot or by boat, offering friendly locals and a relaxed pace.
Visitors can savor river fish, tropical fruits, and traditional crafts while wandering along the waterfront and its temples.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Mỹ Tho Market, where the vibrant colors and sounds immerse you in local life. Stroll through the market stalls, tasting fresh tropical fruits and observing the bustling trade of fish and vegetables. Afterward, head to the Vinh Trang Pagoda, an iconic structure with stunning architecture and serene gardens.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, embark on a boat tour of the Mekong River, where you'll witness the traditional lifestyle of riverside communities. Stop at local fruit orchards, where you can sample exotic fruits and learn about the cultivation process. The afternoon sun casts a warm glow as you glide past lush landscapes and observe fishermen at work.
As dusk settles, enjoy a dinner of local specialties at a riverside restaurant, where the sound of the flowing river enhances your dining experience. Afterward, take a leisurely walk along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil ambiance while watching the boats pass by. End your evening with a traditional music performance, immersing yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Set off early for an adventure into the Mekong Delta, where you can experience the unique ecosystem and local culture. Visit a floating market, where vendors sell goods directly from their boats, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the local people. Engage with the vendors and sample some local snacks as you soak in the lively atmosphere.
Continue your journey to a coconut candy workshop, where you can see the candy-making process and enjoy tasting the delicious treats. Afterward, hop on a bicycle and ride through scenic paths lined with lush greenery and rural landscapes, connecting with the warm hospitality of the locals. Stop at a traditional home for a delicious homemade lunch featuring regional specialties.
Return to Mỹ Tho and unwind at your hotel before heading out for dinner at a nearby restaurant. Savor the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine as you enjoy a leisurely meal. Conclude your day by wandering through the town, experiencing the night market's vibrant energy and perhaps picking up some local handicrafts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🚲Bicycle rental (half day) | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $30-60 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| ☕Coffee at local cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful riverside scenery and laid-back vibe
- Accessible day trips to islands and orchards
- Delicious Mekong Delta cuisine at affordable prices
- Friendly locals and easy navigation by boat or bike
- Hot and humid climate, especially in summer
- Limited nightlife and nightlife options compared to bigger cities
- Market crowds can be dense and navigation on foot may be challenging
- Many small vendors accept cash only
- "Xin chào" - Hello
- "Cảm ơn" - Thank you
- "Bao nhiêu tiền?" - How much is this?
- "Tôi muốn gọi món" - I would like to order
- "Bạn có nói tiếng Anh không?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ở đây có nhà vệ sinh không?" - Is there a toilet here?
- "Xin lỗi" - Sorry
Places to Visit in Mỹ Tho
Visit one of these nice places.
A grand Buddhist temple with intricate architecture, lotus ponds, and atmospheric courtyards ideal for wide-angle and detail shots.
Golden-hour reflections, colonial-era façades, boats, and activity along the Tien River provide dynamic waterfront compositions.
Village lanes, fruit trees, and traditional crafts offer colorful, candid opportunities among locals.
Food in Mỹ Tho
Mỹ Tho Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A regional noodle soup with a clear, flavorful broth, typically featuring pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs.
Must-Try!
Snakehead fish braised in a clay pot with coconut juice, tomatoes, and aromatics; a comforting Mekong specialty.
Crispy savory pancakes stuffed with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, served with herbs and a fish-sauce dip.
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli, paired with a peanut-hoisin sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market where you can sample river fish, fried snacks, fresh fruit, and local sweets from morning stalls.
Evening carts along the riverfront offering grilled seafood, bánh xèo, and tropical fruit smoothies.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes when entering sacred spaces.
Be polite, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and use both hands when giving or receiving items.
Safety
Tipping in Mỹ Tho
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not expected; small tips for guides and service staff are common.
Cash in Vietnamese dong is widely preferred; some larger restaurants and hotels accept cards or mobile wallets, but many street vendors operate cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with abundant sunshine. Dress light, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Frequent showers and higher humidity; river levels rise, making boat trips lush but potentially delayed by rain.
Pleasant temperatures and lower humidity; ideal for walking tours, cycling, and outdoor markets.
Mỹ Tho at Night
Hiking in Mỹ Tho
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Near Ho Chi Minh City, this scenic mangrove reserve offers boardwalks and nature trails suitable for easy hiking and birdwatching.
Forest-edge paths around Ho Chi Minh City; combine a historical visit with short walks through green surroundings.
Airports
How to reach Mỹ Tho by plane.
Major gateway to Ho Chi Minh City; about 60–70 km from Mỹ Tho; accessible by bus, car, or private transfer.
Serves Can Tho and surrounding delta; roughly 110–140 km by road from Mỹ Tho; mainly domestic and regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant urban and market-dwelling population with diverse small communities.
Smaller communities contributing to local markets, cuisine, and crafts.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular pastime across urban and rural areas with local leagues and casual games.
Common in schools and community centers; enjoyed by families in parks and on beaches.
Part of Mekong river culture; occasional events near markets and riverside areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mỹ Tho.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many options rely on fresh vegetables, tofu, and tofu-based dishes. Request no fish sauce or shrimp paste and look for vegetarian tagged menus or clear 'Chay' labeling.