Are you ready for an incredible adventure in Vietnam? Get ready to explore the vibrant and fascinating world of floating markets. These unique marketplaces are not only a hub for trade but also a major tourist attraction. Let’s dive into the top 5 most beautiful and attractive floating markets in Vietnam!
1. Cai Rang Floating Market (Can Tho City)
Situated on a branch of the Hau River, just 600m from Cai Rang Bridge, Cai Rang Floating Market is a sight to behold. This market is not only the largest and busiest in the Mekong Delta but is also recognized as a national intangible cultural heritage. Youramazingplaces has even ranked it as the most beautiful floating market in Asia!
Photo: @chomchom_ken_52
To reach the market, hop on a boat from Ninh Kieu Wharf and enjoy a 30-minute ride to the center of the action. The market is most bustling at dawn, from 5 am to 8 or 9 am, as hundreds of locals from nearby provinces gather here to sell their goods. Each boat has its own bamboo pole, creatively displaying the items for sale. From home-grown agricultural products to handicrafts and ceramics, you can find it all at Cai Rang Floating Market. Don’t miss this unique advertising spectacle!
2. Phong Dien Floating Market (Can Tho City)
Driving a little further from Can Tho City, around 17km, you’ll stumble upon the vibrant trading scene at Phong Dien Floating Market. Take a short boat tour or capture a bird’s-eye view from the nearby bridge to immerse yourself in this chaotic experience.
Photo: @xinchao_vietnam.vn
Operating from 5:30 to 7:30 am daily, Phong Dien Floating Market is packed with small boats and sampans offering fruits, food, noodles, and drinks to travelers. Though smaller than Cai Rang Floating Market, it is often included in sampan tours along with visits to a rice noodle factory, fruit gardens, and an organic cacao farm.
3. Tra On Floating Market (Vinh Long Province)
Located at the junction of Mang Thit and Hau River, Tra On Floating Market is a prominent wholesale market in the region. Get ready to capture the vivid and authentic atmosphere of this bustling market.
Photo: @mymirie_traveldiary
Tra On Floating Market starts early, between 2 and 3 am, and lasts until around 6 am. Here, locals gather to sell a variety of agricultural products, with an emphasis on tropical fruits. Bananas, guavas, oranges, coconuts, durians – the options are endless! Just like at Cai Rang Floating Market, the items for sale are hung on “beo,” long sticks that serve as a unique and informative display for buyers. Don’t miss the vibrant trading scene at dawn, and once night falls, witness this site transform into a charming boat wharf.
4. Chau Doc Floating Market (An Giang Province)
Located near the Cambodian border, Chau Doc Floating Market is a must-visit attraction in An Giang Province. As you explore the Temple of the Goddess Xu and Sam Mountain, don’t forget to immerse yourself in the unique ambiance of this market along the Hau River.
Photo: @asianimages_adammartin
Wooden boats not only serve as places for exchange but also as shelters for local people. The most sought-after products here are fruits from various regions, including Ben Tre, Tien Giang, Long An, and Hau Giang provinces. To experience the bustling atmosphere, make sure to visit Chau Doc Floating Market around 7-8 am.
5. Long Xuyen Floating Market (An Giang Province)
Welcome to one of the most popular floating markets in the Mekong Delta – Long Xuyen Floating Market. As you navigate through the deep waters of the Hau River, you’ll be enchanted by the picturesque scenery and warm hospitality of the locals.
Photo: @langthang.angiang
Hop on a traditional boat and sail through the crowds of merchants showcasing their products. Hung on bamboo poles, you’ll find samples of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and more. Aside from shopping for high-quality merchandise, this is the perfect opportunity to soak in the charming countryside and engage in friendly bargaining. The natural beauty and lively atmosphere make Long Xuyen Floating Market a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Now that you’ve discovered the top 5 most beautiful and attractive floating markets in Vietnam, it’s time to plan your journey. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, interact with friendly locals, and experience the unique culture of the Mekong Delta. Don’t miss out on this incredible adventure!
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