My Tho

Mỹ Tho

The closest Mekong town to Ho Chi Minh City, My Tho serves as a convenient gateway to the delta with river cruises to small islands, temples, and orchards. Its proximity to the capital makes it ideal for short excursions exploring delta scenery.

Things to do

• Mekong River Island Cruises — Half-day or full-day boat tours depart from the waterfront to visit Dragon Island, Unicorn Island, and Tortoise Island, where you can see local fruit orchards, coconut candy workshops, and beekeeping operations.
• Vinh Trang Pagoda — This 19th-century Buddhist temple features ornate architecture blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and French colonial styles, with a peaceful garden and monk quarters open to visitors.
• My Tho Riverside Market — Visit the bustling waterfront market early in the morning to see vendors selling fresh produce, fish, and local goods while observing traditional delta commerce.
• Coconut Candy Workshops — Tour small family-run factories on the islands where you can watch artisans prepare and wrap traditional Vietnamese coconut candies, often included as a stop on river cruises.
• Ben Tre Bridge Crossing — Drive or take a motorbike across the impressive My Tho Bridge for expansive views of the Mekong River and access to Ben Tre Province on the opposite bank.
• Fruit Orchards and Homestays — Stay overnight or visit family-run fruit orchards on the islands to sample fresh tropical fruits and experience rural delta life with local hospitality.

Food to try

• Hu Tieu My Tho — A light, aromatic clear broth soup with thin rice noodles, pork, shrimp, and offal, served with fresh herbs and is the signature dish of the city.
• Fresh Mekong Fish Grilled with Dill — Local river fish seasoned with fresh dill and grilled, often served with a tangy fish sauce dip and rice, showcasing the delta's fresh seafood.
• Coconut Candy — Sweet, chewy candies made from shredded coconut and sugar, traditionally wrapped in rice paper, widely produced on the islands and sold as souvenirs.
• Fresh Tropical Fruits — Seasonal fruits including mangoes, custard apples, dragon fruit, and rambutans grown on local orchards and best enjoyed freshly picked during island visits.
• Shrimp Paste on Sugar Cane — A traditional delta appetizer of shrimp paste wrapped around sugar cane sticks, grilled and eaten by chewing the cane and dipping in fish sauce.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Modestly at Temples — When visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda or other religious sites, wear long pants or skirts and cover your shoulders out of respect for Buddhist customs.
• Haggle Politely at Markets — Prices at riverside markets and island shops are often negotiable, especially if buying multiple items, but remain friendly and respectful during the process.
• Respect River Life and Customs — The Mekong is the lifeblood of the community; avoid disruptive behavior on boats, ask permission before photographing locals, and be mindful that many families live and work on the water.
• Greet with 'Xin Chào' — A simple greeting and polite demeanor go a long way in rural delta communities where tourism is secondary to daily life and genuine friendliness is appreciated.