The journey from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City offers a fascinating shift from the peaceful rhythms of the Mekong Delta to the fast-paced heartbeat of Vietnam’s biggest urban center. Many travelers combine these two destinations in a single itinerary, yet few realize how accessible and well-connected the route truly is.
This travel guide breaks down the exact distance, the most convenient transport choices, realistic travel times, and insider tips, helping you choose the smartest way to get from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City with ease.
How far is it from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City?
The distance from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 155 – 170 kilometers, depending on where you start within each city and the route you take. Most travelers follow the National Highway 1A corridor, the main road connecting the Mekong Delta to Ho Chi Minh City.
This relatively short distance makes the journey highly accessible, with travel times ranging from 2.5 to 4 hours depending on the mode of transport. Whether you choose a bus, private car, or domestic flight, the route is straightforward and regularly serviced, allowing travelers to move between the bustling metropolis and the calm river landscapes of Can Tho with ease.
How far is it from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City?
Common transport options from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City
Travelers moving from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City can choose from several convenient transport options depending on their budget, comfort preferences, and travel style.
By bus
Taking a bus is the most economical and straightforward way to travel between the two cities. Several reputable companies operate this route, including Futa Bus Lines (Phuong Trang), Thanh Buoi, and Trung Nguyen Limousine, offering standard coaches as well as limousine-style vans with wider seats.
Buses run frequently from early morning until late evening, typically departing every 30 to 60 minutes. Most services leave from Can Tho Bus Station or company-specific terminals and arrive at major hubs in Ho Chi Minh City, such as Mien Tay Bus Station or district-based drop-off points.
Travel time ranges from 3 to 4 hours, depending on traffic and bus type. Ticket prices generally fall between 150,000 and 220,000 VND, making it a budget-friendly option for solo travelers, backpackers, and anyone seeking a reliable, no-fuss journey.
By private car
A private car offers more comfort, flexibility, and privacy, ideal for families, business travelers, or visitors who want to control their schedule. The most common route follows National Highway 1A, crossing the Hau River via the Can Tho Bridge and continuing north toward Ho Chi Minh City. Travel time averages 2.5 to 3.5 hours, depending on traffic at the city entrances.
A private transfer allows for customized stops along the way, including visits to local fruit markets, rest areas with Mekong-style cuisine, or viewpoints along the river. This option ensures door-to-door service, air-conditioned comfort, and a smoother experience, especially for early flights, meetings, or travelers with luggage.
Travel from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City by private car
By rental car
Renting a car gives you complete freedom to explore not only Ho Chi Minh City but also the surrounding regions at your own pace. Many travelers combine their self-drive route with a broader itinerary that includes the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Mekong Delta’s floating markets, or short day trips around the city.
For visitors who prefer a hassle-free plan, companies like HoaBinh Tourist offer custom-designed Ho Chi Minh City tours with a professional driver, eliminating concerns about navigation or parking.
These rental services allow you to enjoy iconic attractions such as Notre-Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Skydeck, and vibrant culinary districts without rushing. A rental car paired with a curated tour is an excellent choice for travelers who want convenience while still experiencing Ho Chi Minh City in depth.
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Which transport option from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is the cheapest?
The cheapest way to travel from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is by bus, making it the preferred choice for budget travelers, students, and backpackers exploring Southern Vietnam. Standard bus services operated by companies like Futa Bus Lines and Thanh Buoi offer fares starting from 150,000 VND, which is significantly lower than private transfers or car rentals.
Despite the affordable price, buses run frequently, follow reliable schedules, and provide comfortable seats with air-conditioning, ensuring a smooth journey for the 3 to 4-hour ride. Limousine minibuses cost slightly more but remain a budget-friendly upgrade for those seeking extra legroom and better onboard amenities.
While private cars and rental vehicles offer greater convenience and flexibility, they come at a higher cost and are more suitable for families, business travelers, or visitors who prefer door-to-door service. For travelers prioritizing price above all, bus travel remains the most economical and widely accessible option between Can Tho and Ho Chi Minh City.
Read more:
>> Best ways to travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City
>> Best ways to travel from Nha Trang to Ho Chi Minh City
>> Phu Quoc to Ho Chi Minh City: distance and transport guide
Which route from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is the fastest?
The fastest route from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is the direct corridor via National Highway 1A, crossing the Can Tho Bridge and continuing straight toward the city’s western gateway. This route is the primary connection between the Mekong Delta and Ho Chi Minh City and offers the most consistent travel times, typically 2.5 to 3.5 hours by private car or limousine bus.
Its efficiency comes from wide road sections, fewer detours, and well-maintained bridges that minimize congestion, especially during off-peak hours. Travelers choosing this route also benefit from multiple rest stops and service areas along the way, allowing for a comfortable yet time-efficient journey.
While alternative paths through rural districts offer scenic views, they tend to add extra distance and slower driving conditions. For anyone prioritizing speed, such as business travelers, airport transfers, or those short on time, National Highway 1A remains the quickest and most reliable option.
Which route from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is the fastest?
Traveling from Can Tho to Ho Chi Minh City is easy, flexible, and accessible for every type of traveler, whether you prefer the affordability of buses, the comfort of private cars, or the freedom of a rental vehicle paired with a customized itinerary. Each option offers its own advantages, and choosing the right one depends on your schedule, budget, and travel expectations.
If you want a seamless journey with reliable vehicles, experienced drivers, and tailored city tours, HoaBinh Tourist provides professional transport and travel services designed for both domestic and international guests. For quick support or to book your trip, please contact HoaBinh Tourist via hotline: (+84) 939 311 911 – (+84) 913 311 911.
