On 1/7/2025, Can Tho officially merged with Hau Giang and Soc Trang, becoming the central metropolis of the Mekong Delta with a larger scope and a more diverse ecosystem of destinations. On 14/9, the city will host the VnExpress Marathon for the first time, expected to attract 9,000 runners from Vietnam and abroad.

Ben Ninh Kieu shimmering at night, often a place for visitors to stroll when visiting Can Tho. Photo: Vu Khanh

Ben Ninh Kieu shimmering at night, often a place for visitors to stroll when visiting Can Tho. Photo: Vu Khanh

The "race-cation" trend, combining sports competition with tourism, opens up opportunities for athletes to both experience the race and explore the unique cultural life, cuisine, and river-based nature. With a travel time of only 1-1.5 hours from the center, runners can visit urban structures and explore temples and ecological areas further afield.

On Saturday morning, runners can start by visiting the expo to pick up their bibs and participate in activities with the running community in the exciting pre-race atmosphere. For lunch, a light meal of broken rice, grilled pork vermicelli, or rice paper with roasted pork will provide energy without feeling too full.

That afternoon, visitors can visit the Binh Thuy Ancient House, a French architectural structure over 150 years old that has appeared in many films, or visit the Can Tho Museum to learn about the region's history. As dusk falls, runners should replenish their carbohydrates with fish noodle soup, hu tieu, or lightly-oiled stir-fried noodles, then visit Ben Ninh Kieu and explore the vibrant night market along the river.

Victoria Can Tho Resort has spacious grounds and a view overlooking the Hau River. Photo: Victoria Can Tho Resort

Victoria Can Tho Resort has spacious grounds and a view overlooking the Hau River. Photo: Victoria Can Tho Resort

In the evening, runners can stay at Victoria Can Tho Resort. This is the only resort located in the city center, featuring characteristic Indochinese architecture, harmoniously combining traditional Mekong Delta features with modern amenities. The grounds, spanning over 20,000 m2, are surrounded by a tropical garden overlooking the Hau River, creating a relaxing and natural space.

Early Sunday morning, runners will embark on the official race day of the VnExpress Marathon Can Tho 2025, starting from Ben Ninh Kieu and conquering the characteristic river routes of the Mekong Delta.

After finishing the race, runners should visit the Cai Rang floating market, enjoy a bowl of hot hu tieu and a cup of coffee right on the boat amidst the bustling trading atmosphere. Runners can return to the hotel for lunch, rest, and recover. In the afternoon, the journey continues with a trip of about 45 km to Hau Giang.

A 63-meter-long Buddha statue in Som Rong Pagoda, Soc Trang. Photo: Quang Du Hy

A 63-meter-long Buddha statue in Som Rong Pagoda, Soc Trang. Photo: Quang Du Hy

Along the way, runners can stop at Truc Lam Hau Giang Zen Monastery to relax, then explore the Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve, known as the "green lung" of the Mekong Delta, with its pristine wetland ecosystem. In the evening, runners can enjoy hotpot with dien dien flower and ca linh fish, bitter melon stuffed with snakehead fish, and stay overnight in Vi Thanh.

On Monday morning, from Vi Thanh, runners travel about an hour to Soc Trang, a land rich in Southern Khmer identity. The first stop is Som Rong Pagoda, notable for its giant 63-meter-long reclining Buddha statue, considered one of the most impressive Buddhist structures in the region.

Next, runners visit the Bat Pagoda (Mahatup), home to thousands of bats hanging from ancient trees, creating a unique and rare sight. Don't miss the Chen Kieu Pagoda (Sa Lon) with its splendid multicolored ceramic tile architecture.

At noon, visitors can enjoy Soc Trang noodle soup, try durian mooncakes with salted egg yolk, and Dai Tam banh cong before returning to Can Tho, concluding a short but fulfilling three-day journey.

Three days is enough for runners to participate in a vibrant marathon and fully explore a miniature version of the Mekong Delta. Traveling between Can Tho, Hau Giang, and Soc Trang only takes 1-1.5 hours, which won't put too much strain on the body after race day. However, if too tired, runners should prioritize recovery before considering sightseeing.

Hai Long