The short answer
Can Tho Bridge: what visitors should know first
A worthwhile viewpoint rather than a sight to visit. See it from a boat or the riverbank for 30 minutes, ideally at sunrise or sunset; there is nothing to do on the bridge itself.
History and context
The story behind Can Tho Bridge
The bridge opened on 24 April 2010 after construction supported by Japanese official development assistance. During construction, on 26 September 2007, a 90 metre approach ramp collapsed, and the official death toll was 54.
An inquiry traced the cause to temporary pillars built partly on soft sand that settled unevenly.
Useful facts
Can Tho Bridge facts at a glance
- Location
- Hau River, linking Can Tho and Vinh Long province
- Type
- Cable-stayed bridge
- Opened
- 24 April 2010
- Main span
- 550 metres
- Length
- About 2,750 m for the bridge itself
Why it matters
Why Can Tho Bridge is worth your time
The bridge changed the Mekong Delta's travel patterns. It replaced a ferry crossing on the main road and improved links between Can Tho and the rest of the delta. It is also a reminder that the river is a barrier as well as a highway.
Its history is also sombre: a section of approach ramp collapsed during construction in 2007, causing many deaths. The inquiry traced the cause to temporary pillars on soft sand. Visitors should treat the site with respect, and it is a reminder of how challenging the delta's soft ground is for engineering.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
The main span
A 550 metre span with a clearance that allows large ships to pass beneath.
- 02
The view from water
Boats on the way to the markets pass near the bridge, giving the best view.
- 03
Link to Vinh Long
The bridge opens up the orchard and canal country across the river.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Can Tho Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge over the Hau River, also called the Bassac. It opened in April 2010, and the main span is 550 metres. The bridge replaced a ferry crossing between Can Tho and Vinh Long.
The easiest way to see it is from a boat on the way to Cai Rang or on a river cruise; the view from the water shows the scale of the cables and towers. A taxi can also take you to a riverbank viewpoint. Do not stop on the bridge itself or walk on the roadway; traffic is heavy and the verges are narrow.
If you cross it by car on the way to Vinh Long and the delta countryside, you will have a brief view of the river. Combine it with a boat trip rather than making a special journey. The bridge is a good subject for photographs at sunrise or late afternoon.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- View from a boat or safe riverbank, not the roadway
- Visit at sunrise or late afternoon
- Do not stop on the bridge
- Combine with a river trip
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Hau River, south-east of central Can Tho
- Time needed
- 30 minutes as a viewpoint
- Best time
- Sunrise or late afternoon
- Walking level
- Easy
- Senior comfort
- Viewing from a car, a boat or the riverbank needs little walking. Roadside verges are narrow and traffic is heavy, so do not walk on the bridge.
- Tickets and access
- No entry; the bridge is a toll road for vehicles. View from the water or a safe riverbank spot rather than on the carriageway.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Can Tho Bridge
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Viewing from a car, a boat or the riverbank needs little walking. Roadside verges are narrow and traffic is heavy, so do not walk on the bridge.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
When did Can Tho Bridge open?
24 April 2010, according to Wikipedia.
Can I walk on the bridge?
No. It is a vehicle toll bridge with heavy traffic; view it from the water or a safe riverbank.
What is the best way to see it?
From a boat on the Hau River, ideally at sunrise or late afternoon.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
