Located in the Mekong Delta, southern Vietnam, near Can Tho city, the Cai Rang is indeed by far the largest of all the local floating markets dotting the river. It is set right in the middle of the water far from the banks and the only way to reach it and shop there is by boat what is actually the main peculiarity of Cai Rang. The busiest hours at Cai Rang are just before and immediately after dawn. Daily over 400 boats gather at Cai Rang selling fresh produce, flowers, fruits, seafood and more.
There are tours offered for visitors but it is also possible to visit the market all by yourself. First get to the local market of Chợ An Bình, which sits on the river bank exactly opposite the floating market. There is a public dock by the market from where regular boats leave to Cai Rang.
Cai Rang is not the only floating market you can visit in the area. There are other markets, though smaller, but still deserving your attention: try checking Phong Dien, Phung Hiep, and Tra On.
The most convenient starting point for visiting the Mekong Delta's markets is Can Tho. It can be reached from Ho Chi Minh City via a 3 hour bus ride.
Vietnam's Floating Markets Among Asia's Best
News in Asia
Several newspapers and business and news companies including The Telegraph, Business Insider, and the AFP have recently mentioned the Cai Rang Market in Vietnam as one of the biggest and best floating markets in Asia.