A long layover in Can Tho is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Can Tho International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 50 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave VCA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Vietnam. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Can Tho takes about 50 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Transport from Can Tho International Airport to Downtown
The most straightforward way into Can Tho is the local transport, which takes about 50 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 70 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the local transport is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Can Tho layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$10 |
| Meal | ~$20 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$40 |
If you’re only out for a few hours, you might not need much cash at all — many places accept contactless payments.
What’s Worth Seeing in Can Tho
If you head into Can Tho, here are two things worth checking out:
Ninh Kieu Wharf is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Ong Temple (Chua Ong) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. The architecture is worth seeing, even from the outside.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside VCA, you can spend time at VCA VIP Lounge or try Airport Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Where to Eat
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Can Tho: L’Escale Restaurant and Quán Hạnh Phúc (Happiness Vegetarian Restaurant). Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for Highlands Coffee (VCA) or Airport Food Court & Restaurant. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Storing Your Luggage at Can Tho International Airport
Luggage storage options at VCA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Can Tho for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at VCA, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Can Tho itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Vietnam that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at VCA.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Can Tho count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave VCA. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.