Eternalized and romanticized in films such as The Lover, the Mekong Delta is one of Southeast Asia’s quintessential landscapes. But behind the serene and tranquil vistas lies a compelling history that concerns large chunks of the world. The Vietnamese conquered the Cham and claimed this land from the Khmer, only to be colonized by the French soon after.

Understanding the agricultural value of the delta, European and Asian business-people set up shop here and built grand mansions along the riverbanks. Ho Chi Minh reportedly worried that without the food production capabilities of the south, the north would starve.

You won’t learn about this on a Mekong Delta day-trip, so if you especially love learning about history and culture, have a look at some of our favorite experiences in the area, which include a little bit of history, sight-seeing, and cultural immersion, as well as overnight stays in rustic Mekong lodges and simple cruise ships.

The Mekong Delta is synonymous with floating markets, and it’s easy to see why. These vibrant hubs have spread throughout the region, showcasing the indomitable spirit of the Vietnamese and their ability to make-due with any obstacle in their paths, from small affairs with just a few boats to grand spectacles where market “stalls” number in the hundreds. You’ll see boats filled to the brim with colorful tropical fruits and buyers and sellers striking animated deals.

Many of the most interesting floating markets can be found in and around Can Tho, the largest city in the Mekong Delta. Board a modernized sampan (traditional-styled boat) for a breakfast cruise and drift through the stalls of Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest wholesale floating market in Southeast Asia, on our specially developed Can Tho Mekong tour. This is the best way to get a view of the unique cultural identity of southern Vietnam.

Like virtually every other river delta in the world, the Mekong Delta is entirely flat. This makes it a great place to hop on a bicycle and craft your own adventure, whether you’re an avid cyclist or not. Most 1-day Mekong Delta tours offer some time to experience the views from the soft seat of a comfy easy-rider bicycle, and guide you along from temple and farm to traditional house and make-shift floating market.

To enhance the experience, we recommend spending at least 2 nights in a Mekong Delta homestay like this one to get to know the locals – the people in southern Vietnam are famous for their friendliness – and to enjoy a much-deserved sundowner after a day of cycling.