Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: Bus | Prices & Schedules

There are 1 way(s) to get from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho

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🚌 Departure from Ho Chi Minh City

📍Most buses to My Tho depart from Mien Tay Bus Station (Bến xe Miền Tây) in Ho Chi Minh City. This is the largest bus terminal for routes to the Mekong Delta, located southwest of the city center.

🚇From the city center (District 1), you can reach Mien Tay Bus Station by taxi or ride-hailing app (Grab, Gojek). The ride typically takes 25-40 minutes and costs around 80,000-150,000 VND, depending on traffic.

⏰Buses to My Tho are very frequent, departing every 15-30 minutes from early morning (around 5:00 AM) until late afternoon (around 6:00 PM). It's easy to find a bus without a long wait.

Practical tips

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Book tickets directly at the station

For this short route, buying your ticket at the bus station on the day of travel is usually fine. Buses are frequent, so you won't wait long. Online booking isn't essential and can sometimes add extra fees.

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Choose a reputable bus company

Opt for well-known operators like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) or Kumho Samco. They offer comfortable coaches and reliable service. Avoid smaller, lesser-known companies if possible to ensure a smooth journey.

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Arrive early for your bus

Even though buses are frequent, aim to arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your desired departure time. This gives you time to buy your ticket, find your gate, and settle in without rushing.

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Pack light for easy transfer

Since My Tho is often a starting point for Mekong Delta tours, you might transfer to smaller boats. Keeping your luggage manageable will make these transitions much smoother and less stressful.

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Beware of unofficial transport

Stick to official bus stations and known operators. Avoid offers from individuals outside the station claiming to offer cheaper or faster rides, as these can be scams or less safe options.

🛣️ The journey experience

Heading from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, the gateway to the Mekong Delta, is a straightforward journey. You’ll find that for this particular leg, a bus is undoubtedly your best and only practical option. Unlike some of Vietnam's longer stretches where you weigh up sleeper buses, trains, or even flights, this route is short and sweet, meaning you won't lose precious travel time trying to figure out the best mode. It's a quick hop, designed for day trips or starting your delta adventure without any fuss.

For this short trip, local buses are the way to go. Expect a comfortable ride that takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours, making it perfect for a morning departure to maximize your time in My Tho. Tickets are incredibly affordable, usually around 4€ (100,000 VND), and can be purchased directly at the bus station or sometimes through your hotel. Operators like Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) are reliable and offer frequent services throughout the day, ensuring you won't be left waiting around.

Don't stress about complex schedules or picking the wrong transport for this route. Your biggest concern here isn't a cramped overnight bus or a missed ferry, but rather simply getting to the right bus station on time. It's one of those legs in Vietnam where the choice is clear, letting you focus on the excitement of exploring the Mekong Delta rather than poring over comparison tables. Just grab a bus, sit back, and enjoy the short ride.

Frequently asked questions — Ho Chi Minh City → My Tho

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✨ Why visit My Tho?

✓ Boat trip along the Mekong River, exploring traditional villages and fruit orchards.
✓ Visit Vinh Trang Pagoda, a unique blend of Vietnamese, Khmer, and French architectural styles.
✓ Enjoy local delicacies like fresh coconut candy and honey tea at a bee farm.
✓ Explore the bustling My Tho market, offering a glimpse into local life and produce.
✓ Paddle through the narrow canals (arroyos) on a traditional sampan.

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Recommended stay

1 to 2 nights — Ideal for experiencing the Mekong Delta's essence and local culture without rush.

☀️ When to visit My Tho?

TROPICAL SUBEQUATORIAL

November to February — Dry season with cooler temperatures, perfect for boat trips and outdoor activities.

Jan 😊

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What to do in My Tho?

Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you

INCONTOURNABLE

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Mekong River Boat Trip

Explore the iconic Mekong Delta by boat, stopping at various islands like Unicorn Island. You'll witness daily life along the river, taste local fruits, and perhaps hear traditional music. Aim for an early morning departure to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. Expect to spend around 4-5 hours for a comprehensive tour.

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Dong Tam Snake Farm

This unique farm is a research center, a snake breeding facility, and a hospital for snakebite victims. You can observe various snake species, from pythons to venomous cobras. It's an educational experience that sheds light on local wildlife and medicine. Best visited in the late afternoon. Entrance fee is usually under 5€.

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Vinh Trang Pagoda

A beautiful and historic Buddhist temple blending Vietnamese, Khmer, and European architectural styles. Its ornate facade, serene gardens, and giant Buddha statues make it a peaceful retreat. Allow an hour to explore its grounds thoroughly. Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees. Free entry, but donations are welcome.

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Taste My Tho Hu Tieu

My Tho is famous for its 'Hu Tieu,' a delicious noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and fresh herbs. Seek out a local eatery, often indicated by busy queues, for an authentic experience. This dish is a staple and a must-try for any food enthusiast. A bowl typically costs less than 2-3€. Don't hesitate to try street food stalls.

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Thoi Son Island Exploration

Also known as Unicorn Island, Thoi Son is a hub for local crafts and fruit orchards. Enjoy a short sampan ride through narrow canals, visit a coconut candy workshop, and sample tropical fruits. It's often part of a larger Mekong tour, but you can arrange independent visits. Consider buying local honey or handicrafts as souvenirs.

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Bee Farm Visit

Discover the local beekeeping industry on one of the Mekong islands. You'll learn about honey production, sample fresh honey tea, and even get to hold a beehive frame (under supervision). It's a sweet and informative stop, often combined with other island activities. You can purchase local honey and royal jelly products. Tip: Wear light, comfortable clothing.

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Cycling through Rural My Tho

Rent a bicycle and explore the quieter, lesser-known parts of My Tho. Cycle along narrow country roads, past rice paddies, and through small villages. This offers a glimpse into authentic rural life away from the tourist crowds. Bicycle rentals are generally available for a few euros per day. Remember to carry water and sunscreen.

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My Tho Cathedral

While not as grand as some European cathedrals, My Tho Cathedral (Immaculate Conception Cathedral) offers an interesting contrast to the Buddhist pagodas. Its French colonial architecture stands out, providing a moment of historical reflection. It's typically open for visitors outside of service times. Take a few minutes to appreciate its unique design. Entry is free.

⏱️ How long to visit My Tho?

1 to 2 days

For an independent francophone traveler, 1 to 2 days are ideal to explore Mỹ Tho. In one day, you can cover the main attractions like the boat tour on the Mekong, visit an island, and taste local specialties. With two days, you can delve deeper into the local life, visit more orchards, or take a cooking class. We recommend an overnight stay to experience the calm of the delta.

Other trips from Ho Chi Minh City

How to get from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho

🗺️ Route & distance: Ho Chi Minh City → My Tho