Vietnam's floating market under lenses of Western tourist
Falling in love with the bustling floating markets, Sebastian Hanke has captured vivid and realistic photos of these sites.
 | Interesting experiences that only found in Western Vietnam |
 | “Must-try” specialties of Northwestern Vietnam in ripening rice season |
 | Experience of making chocolate by yourself in Western Vietnam |
 |
| German - Mexican photographer Sebastian Hanke visited Western Vietnam in the early days of 2020. Sitting around the canals, visiting the floating market was a unique experience, he shared. "Life on the river was very exciting and bustling, especially in the early morning. I was very excited to see how the river could become a bustling market with small merchants coming from all over." (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| Located on the Can Tho River, Cai Rang and Phong Dien floating markets are the convergence of hundreds of boats coming here to trade every day. This is also one of the typical cultures of the river region.. Cai Rang Floating Market is located about 5 km from the city center and takes 30 minutes by boat from Ninh Kieu wharf. Phong Dien Market is about 17 km southeast of the city. From Cai Rang market, you can rent a boat to go straight to Phong Dien market. (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| Rivers play an essential role in the lives of people in the Mekong Delta. Rivers connect cities, villages, and towns, allowing people to move around and shop more easily. (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| In Western Vietnam, boats are the most popular means to transport goods and humans. The boats in floating markets are loaded with many kinds of goods, mostly fruits. (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| On the bow of the boat, people put a high pole tree that acts as a signboard to show what kind of goods that the boat sells. Each boat is a mobile store. Not only buying and selling food, visitors can also experience food right on the river thanks to many floating restaurants on boats. (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| Most floating markets in Vietnam “wakes up” in the very early morning. Though the busiest time lasts from 4 am to 6 am, you can find boats gathering since 3 am. At sunrise, the market will be at its best, boasting its vibrant colors of fruits and vegetables, and the clattering sound of water, chatter, and engines. If you seek an authentic experience in the south of Vietnam, getting up early is the only choice. (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| If hustle-bustle is not what you’re seeking, you can visit the float markets in the afternoon. The burning tropical sun will hinder you from going out from 1 pm-3 pm, so it’s best to pay a visit to the markets at 4 pm. The sunlight will be more gentle, and you will be able to gaze at the tranquil beauty of riverside villages. A good chill from the hectic pace of city life. (Photo: VN Express) |
 |
| Sebastian said that the floating market is one of the most impressive places during his visit to Vietnam. He is also very interested in the delicious food and impressed with the friendliness and hospitality of the people here. (Photo: VN Express) |
 | Cai Rang floating market, a highlight of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta The floating market is a typically cultural trait in the Mekong River Delta that cannot be found anywhere. In which, Cai Rang floating market in ... |
 | Floating markets, exceptional cultural features of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta The floating markets in the Mekong Delta are not only the places of trade but they also represent the unique customs and habits of Western ... |
 | Floating market still a popular Mekong trading hub It’s 5am. A cool breeze accompanies the rising sun in the middle of the flooding season. The peaceful landscape of the river starts to come ... |
Tags:
Related Stories
Handbook
Top Mekong Delta Tourist Spots to Visit in Spring
Take a look at famous destinations that offer the most signature experiences while traveling to the Mekong Delta of Vietnam this time of the year.
February 20, 2024 | 13:46
Travel
The Cultural Beauty of Floating Markets in the South
The image of floating markets crowded with merchant boats has long been a staple of rivers in the Western region of Vietnam. However, many floating markets are in danger of "sinking".
December 26, 2022 | 07:53
Travel
Exploring Western Vietnam in watery season
In the watery season annually, Western Vietnam attracts the influx of tourists to take photos. Here are 6 destinations that should not be missed.
October 15, 2020 | 08:40
Travel
Tra On floating market, enduring cultural trait of Vietnam’s Mekong Delta
Tra On floating market is one of the most unique tourist destinations in the Mekong River Delta that should not be missed.
September 20, 2020 | 15:59
Recommended
Travel
Phu Quoc - Top Choice for Eastern European Tourists Visiting Vietnam
In recent months, Vietnam’s expanded visa exemption policy has made it easier for European travelers to visit and explore the country, with the number of Eastern European tourists searching for Vietnamese destinations on the Agoda platform surging by 59%. Among these, the “Pearl Island” of Phu Quoc has emerged as the most favored destination, witnessing a remarkable 113% increase in searches compared to the same period last year.
October 24, 2025 | 15:09
Travel
“Vietnam Pho Festival 2025” Kicks Off in Singapore
On October 18, the Vietnam Pho Festival 2025 officially kicked off at Our Tampines Hub in Singapore, attracting a large number of visitors eager to explore and savor Vietnam’s iconic dish.
October 22, 2025 | 10:36
Travel
Vietnam Shines with Dual Wins at the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards
Vietnam has outshined many strong contenders to secure a place among the top 10 most beloved global destinations in two major categories: “World’s Best Destination” and “World’s Friendliest Country.”
October 16, 2025 | 09:42
Travel
6 Must-Visit Caves in Quang Tri
According to the announcement by the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism of Quang Tri province on October 07. The renowned travel magazine Travel and Leisure selected 6 caves in Quang Tri province as must-see destinations in Vietnam.
October 14, 2025 | 07:14
Popular article
Travel
Vietnam: Attractive Destination for French Tourists in Summer 2025
The 45-day visa exemption for French citizens and many other European nationals, together with increasingly convenient direct flight connections, has made Vietnam an appealing choice for French travelers.
October 12, 2025 | 14:43
Travel
Cultures of World Festival in Hanoi: Journey of Connection Across Five Continents
The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Hanoi People’s Committee, will host the first Cultures of the World Festival in Hanoi from October 10 to 12, 2025, at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. This major diplomatic and cultural event of Vietnam in 2025 carries special significance in honoring the diversity of world cultures, promoting people-to-people exchanges, and strengthening mutual understanding and friendship between Vietnam and international friends.
October 09, 2025 | 13:31
Travel
Vietnam Welcomes Over 15.4 Million International Visitors in Nine Months
Welcoming over 15.4 million international visitors (a 21.5% increase compared to the same period in 2024), Vietnam’s tourism and travel revenue in the past nine months was estimated at VND 69.6 trillion (up 20.5% year-on-year).
October 09, 2025 | 07:05
Travel
Peaceful Da Nang Rises as New Favorite Destination for French Retirees
Da Nang possesses modern infrastructure with hospitals, services, and comfortable cafes, while maintaining a close local life, which is very suitable for the elderly.
October 01, 2025 | 06:40