Can Tho Ancient Market – A century-old market hall by Ninh Kieu Wharf

Can Tho Ancient Market – a French-era covered market hall located on Hai Ba Trung Street right next to Ninh Kieu Wharf. The market has been restored to preserve its historic appearance, now serving as a place to shop for souvenirs and a relaxing stop while strolling along the Hau River.

History and Features

• The market was built around 1915 and was once known as Luc Tinh Market.
• In 2005, the market underwent a major restoration while retaining its traditional covered hall architecture.
• The market features yin-yang tiled roofs and traditional wooden truss structures.
• Today, it primarily caters to visitors sightseeing and shopping for gifts.

What to Buy at Can Tho Ancient Market

• Conical hats (nón lá), checkered scarves (khăn rằn), and traditional bà ba shirts.
• Handicrafts made from wood, coconut, and rattan/bamboo.
• Dried regional specialties and Mekong Delta souvenirs.
• It is recommended to compare prices across several stalls before purchasing.

What to Eat at Can Tho Ancient Market

• Along Hai Ba Trung Street and the nearby night market area, there are numerous restaurants and street food stalls.
• You can sample Mekong Delta specialties such as straw-grilled snakehead fish and fish cake thick noodle soup (bánh canh chả cá).

How to Get There

• The market is located right in the center of Can Tho, adjacent to Ninh Kieu Wharf.
• A taxi ride from Can Tho International Airport takes about 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
• It is easily accessible on foot from hotels located in the Ninh Kieu area.

Travel Tips for Visitors

• Visit in the late afternoon or evening to combine your trip with a stroll around Ninh Kieu Wharf and the night market.
• Bargain politely when shopping for souvenirs.
• Keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded areas.
• Nearby attractions include Ong Pagoda (Quang Trieu Assembly Hall), Ninh Kieu Pedestrian Bridge, and the boat pier for tours to Cai Rang Floating Market.

Reference Prices

• Checkered scarf (khăn rằn): around 30,000–100,000 VND each depending on the fabric quality.
• Conical hat (nón lá): around 50,000–200,000 VND each depending on craftsmanship.
• Bà ba outfit: around 150,000–500,000 VND per set depending on the material.
• Baskets and bamboo/rattan crafts: around 100,000–500,000 VND per item.

Prices are for reference only and may vary by season and individual stall.

Best Time to Visit

• The market is open from morning until around 10:00 PM; daytime is less crowded and cooler, making it ideal for admiring the market hall's architecture.
• Late afternoon and evening offer the liveliest atmosphere, perfect for pairing with a stroll along Ninh Kieu Wharf and the pedestrian bridge.
• December to April marks the dry season, offering ideal weather for walking along the Hau River.

Useful Visitor Information

• Payment: Many stalls accept QR bank transfers, but it is still advisable to carry small cash denominations for minor purchases.
• Restrooms: You can use public restrooms around the Ninh Kieu Wharf area or facilities in nearby restaurants and cafes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours of Can Tho Old Market?

The market is open from morning until night, with the surrounding area being liveliest in the evening.

When was Can Tho Old Market built?

The market was built around 1915 during the French colonial period and was restored in 2005.

What is sold at Can Tho Old Market?

It mainly sells souvenirs such as conical hats (nón lá), checkered scarves (khăn rằn), traditional bà ba shirts, handicrafts, and dried local specialties.

See Also

• Phong Dien Floating Market
• Ca Mau Floating Market
• Cai Rang Floating Market
• Ninh Kieu Night Market