A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Can Tho vs. Arrowtown for Attractions, Food, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Can Tho and Arrowtown can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a vibrant, friendly, and cultural city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. Other reasons to visit include food, shopping, and museums. See Can Tho travel costs.

Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a quirky, historic, and charming town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. This destination also has one of those special and quaint feelings. Visitors also love the nightlife, food, and hiking. See Arrowtown travel costs.

Can Tho and Arrowtown: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular for skiing
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Scenic old town
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm


Is there more to do in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Arrowtown. Although Can Tho and Arrowtown are popular destinations, Arrowtown has more sights and attractions for tourists. Arrowtown is very popular for its skiing, historical sights, hiking, small town charm, and quaint atmosphere, while Can Tho attracts visitors for its museums and attractions, shopping, and big city activities. Can Tho is famous for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. Arrowtown is famous for its gold rush history, impressive ski slopes, and famous hikes. It is also well known for the Chinese Settlement.

How is Can Tho different from Arrowtown?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Arrowtown and Can Tho. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Skiing?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Arrowtown is great for skiing. However, Can Tho is not a skiing destination.

Visitors travel far to experience snow skiing in Arrowtown. In the area you'll find amazing skiing that ranges from professional level to family-friendly.

Can Tho is not a skiing destination.


Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for its museums and history. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its museums and landmarks.

Many visitors head to Can Tho specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. The main attraction nearby is Cai Rang Floating Market, but visitors also enjoy seeing Binh Thuy Ancient House, the Can Tho Rice Noodle Factory, Ong pagoda, and Nam Nha Pagoda.

Arrowtown offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. The town feels likes a living museum with its historic sights. There's also the Lakes District Museum in town that you can visit.

Is the Food Better in Can Tho or Arrowtown? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Both Can Tho and Arrowtown offer a number of very good restaurants to choose from.

Can Tho has a huge number of terrific restaurants. It's the largest city in the Mekong Delta, and there are many restaurants with rooftop views and lively atmospheres. The food is local and fresh. Grilled meats, noodle soup, and local produce are all popular. Many visitors come to Cantho specifically to experience the nearby floating markets. You really must sample the many dishes available at the markets, which are unique to the area and offer a whole new approach to street food.

Dining out in Arrowtown is an experience not to be missed. For such a small town, there's a surprising number of great restaurants with award winning chefs. You'll find quaint cafes, traditional eateries, and casual restaurants where you can sample the local dishes.

Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Nightlife?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

The vibe at night is nice in both Can Tho and Arrowtown.

If you're looking for night time activities Can Tho has a few options to choose from. The city is very beautiful at night with many colorful lights. There are a number of bars and places for tourists to hang out and socialize.

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Arrowtown. For such a small town, there's a surprisingly bustling nightlife scene with casual pubs and waterfront bars.


Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for its Old Town?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Arrowtown is great for its old town. However, Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

There is a nice variety of sights in the old town of Arrowtown. This is a quirky and charming historic mining town that has many cottages and historic buildings. Many places have been restored to maintain their original character.

Can Tho does not have a historic old town.

Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Hiking?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Arrowtown is a must-visit destination for hiking. However, Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Arrowtown specifically for its hiking. Many people use this town as a jumping off point for some of the world's most iconic hikes. You can explore Lord of the Rings country or do one of fifteen different listed walks in the area.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Can Tho is terrific for shopping. Also, Arrowtown is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its shopping opportunities.

People travel from around the world to go shopping in Can Tho. The city is large with malls and a central market, but most visitors come specifically for the nearby floating markets. These unique markets are best visited by boat. Goods and food are sold out of vendor boats and popular food dishes include noodle soup and local fruits. Each boat has a tall bamboo stick displaying the items that it sells.

Arrowtown is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. Shopping is an experience in town. Head to Buckingham Street, which is the main street in town. You can wander through a wild west setting with local vendors and quirky galleries.


Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Families?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Can Tho or Arrowtown.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Can Tho is very family-friendly. Kids and adults alike will be fascinated by the floating markets and the beautiful Mekong Delta. Most visitors use this growing city as a base for exploring the area, which has a fascinating culture and interesting sights.

Arrowtown is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy the old world charm as much as adults. There's gold panning, bike trails, and even a historic Chinese village. During the winter there are snow sports and during the summer there are outdoor activities that take advantage of the nice weather.

Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Couples?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Both Can Tho and Arrowtown are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Can Tho is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. Couples can take a romantic evening boat ride on the Mekong Delta. During the morning hours, the floating markets are one of Vietnam's most interesting destinations. You can sample local dishes and experience a completely different way of life.

Arrowtown is a very popular place to visit for couples. The charming atmosphere and beautiful walks make this a great weekend destination for couples. You can take a stroll on the Arrow River Walkway or grab a meal at a quaint cafe followed by ice cream at a classic ice cream parlor.

Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

For backpackers, both Can Tho and Arrowtown are very good places to visit.

Many backpackers visit Can Tho. This is a large city with a number of hostels and many backpackers who pass through during their trip to the floating markets and through the Mekong Delta.

Arrowtown is a very popular city for backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in town and backpackers love the frequent festivals and activities that the town hosts.


Is Can Tho or Arrowtown Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Arrowtown is very good for times when you don't have a car. However, Can Tho is not a good destination for its public transit.

While Arrowtown offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There are public buses throughout the region.

Public transit is generally limited in Can Tho. There are local buses, but many visitors come to this area as part of an organized tour because transportation can be a bit a tricky.

Is Can Tho or Arrowtown a more walkable city?

Can Tho
Arrowtown

Can Tho and Arrowtown are nice when it comes to walkability.

Can Tho is a somewhat walkable place. The city center is relatively walkable.

Arrowtown is a somewhat walkable city. Parts of the town are fun to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Can Tho Worth Visiting? and Is Arrowtown Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Arrowtown or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Can Tho or Arrowtown to fill your time. In our opinion, Arrowtown has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Arrowtown than Can Tho. However, 1-2 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Arrowtown than Can Tho. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Arrowtown, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Arrowtown than Can Tho. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Arrowtown that are perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Arrowtown than Can Tho if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Arrowtown.


  • How many days in Can Tho or Arrowtown? Ideal Length of Stay
    Can Tho 1-2 
    Arrowtown 1-2

One day in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

You'll find shopping and museums around the city of Can Tho. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Can Tho has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Arrowtown is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.


A weekend in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

You'll find museums and nightlife around the unique destination of Can Tho. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. This city offers a variety of activities to choose from.

Arrowtown might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Arrowtown has to offer.

Five days in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Travelers enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the fascinating city of Can Tho. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Most people head to the area for the shopping. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

Arrowtown is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

A week in Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Can Tho is a popular choice for travelers. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Arrowtown. Since Arrowtown is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. One reason most visitors come is for the hiking. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Ho Chi Minh City, The Best 10-Day Tours from Hanoi, The Best Contiki Tours to New Zealand, and The Best G Adventures Tours to New Zealand.


Which place is cheaper, Arrowtown or Can Tho?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations. These travel costs come from the actual spending of real travelers.

The average daily cost (per person) in Can Tho is $66, while the average daily cost in Arrowtown is $136. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Can Tho and Arrowtown in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Can Tho $26
    Arrowtown $67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Can Tho $52
    Arrowtown $134
Compare Hotels in Can Tho and Arrowtown

Looking for a hotel in Can Tho or Arrowtown? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Can Tho


Hotels in Arrowtown


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Can Tho Hotel Prices and Arrowtown Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Can Tho $12
    Arrowtown $27

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Can Tho

Also for Can Tho, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport to/from Can Tho City Center: $35
  • Private Transfer from Vinh Long to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $116
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $123
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Can Tho (VCA) Airport: $51
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Can Tho City: $135
  • PRIVATE CAR: Can Tho AIRPORT <=> CanTho Hotels (one way transfer): $30
  • Can Tho To Ho Chi Minh Private Car Transfer: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Prices for flights to both Arrowtown and Can Tho change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Can Tho $28
    Arrowtown $52
Typical Food Prices in Can Tho

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Can Tho:


  • Restaurant Dinner (for Two)
    $4.93
  • Coconut
    $0.27
  • Mango
    $1.02
  • Hot Pot Dinner (for Two)
    $6.60
  • Two Vietnamese Iced Coffees
    $0.61
  • Casual Lunch (for One)
    $2.65

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Can Tho

For Can Tho, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Boat tour on Mekong river see the sunset, small canal, Vegan dinner, street food: $29
  • Biking and Cooking Class in Can Tho Rural: $32
  • Explore Can Tho City tour combine Local Food tour - in afternoon: $35
  • Can Tho food tour voted by local - Vegan option is available: $38
  • Street food tour back of the bike in Can Tho: $39
  • Full-Day Experience in Mekong Cycling and Authentic Home Cooking: $60

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Can Tho $16
    Arrowtown $15
Typical Entertainment Prices in Can Tho

For Can Tho, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Sunset Boat Ride
    $1.90
  • Half Day Floating Market Tour
    $7.96

Tours and Activities in Can Tho

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Can Tho.

  • Private ecotour in floating market-nature reserved: $93
  • Victoria Sunset Cruise on Hau River: $35
  • 1 day-Tra Su cajuput forest tour pick up from Chau Doc or Can Tho: $155
  • Bicycle Tour Through Peaceful Villages: $37
  • Boat tour visit 3 pagodas, Ancient house, see sunset on mekong river: $59
  • CASA Authentic Bicycle Tour: $89
  • CASA Authentic Mekong Motorbike Tour: $89
  • Cai Rang Floating Market - My Tho & Ben Tre - VIP Private Tour: $125
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour & Rural Cycling: $63
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour -Amazing Can Tho : $78
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour with Lung Ngoc Hoang Nature Reserve: $92
  • Can Tho Countryside Bike Tour with Fruit Garden Visit: $30

Tours and Activities in Arrowtown

For Arrowtown, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • From Queenstown: 'Valley of the Vines' Wine and Bike Tour: $87
  • Queenstown: Arrowtown To Queenstown Biking Adventure: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Can Tho $6.26
    Arrowtown $13
Typical Alcohol Prices in Can Tho

Here are a few samples of the prices for alcohol and nightlife in Can Tho from other travelers:


  • Beer
    $3.03


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Can Tho and Arrowtown, we can see that Arrowtown is more expensive. And not only is Can Tho much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. Since Can Tho is in Asia and Arrowtown is in Pacific, this is one of the main reasons why the costs are so different, as different regions of the world tend to have overall different travel costs. So, traveling to Can Tho would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Can Tho and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Arrowtown would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Arrowtown than you might in Can Tho.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Can Tho Expensive? and Is Arrowtown Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Arrowtown?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 120 times larger than the population of Arrowtown. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho and Arrowtown, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.