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

Should you visit Can Tho or Rockhampton?

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 Rockhampton can help you decide which place is right for you.

Can Tho

Can Tho is a fascinating, vibrant, and friendly city. Because this is such a big city, visitors will find many sights and attractions around town. It's also popular because of the food, shopping, and museums.

Rockhampton

Rockhampton is a cultural, natural, and rural town. With fun activities and sights, this is a small town worth visiting. Visitors also love the food, beaches, and hiking.

Can Tho and Rockhampton: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Good for hiking
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for shopping


Is there more to do in Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Can Tho than Rockhampton, as it is bigger with more sights, attractions, and activities for visitors. Can Tho is more popular for its shopping and big city activities, while Rockhampton is known for its beaches, hiking, and small town charm. Can Tho is popular for its colorful floating markets, fresh produce, friendly people, and intricate waterways. It is also home to Cai Rang Floating Market. Rockhampton is popular for its cultural centers and surrounding national parks.

How is Can Tho different from Rockhampton?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Can Tho and Rockhampton.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Rockhampton can be an interesting and educational experience. While many people come for the area's natural beauty, there are also educational centers where you can learn about the indigenous culture. Make sure you visit the Dreamtime Cultural Centre as well as the Rockhampton Museum of Art. Also of interest are the Rockhampton Heritage Village and the Mount Morgan Historical Railway Museum.


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

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Both Can Tho and Rockhampton offer a number of great 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 Rockhampton is an experience not to be missed. Despite its small size, the food scene is surprisingly diverse. There are local cafes that offer local produce, waterfront restaurants that have great views, and casual international eateries, as well as low key pubs.

Is Can Tho or Rockhampton Better for Nightlife?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

The vibe at night is good in both Can Tho and Rockhampton.

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 Rockhampton. It's a small place, but there are still a number of pubs and bars around town. Many visitors enjoy going to a coastal beach bar for the evening.

Is Can Tho or Rockhampton Better for Beaches?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for the beache. However, Can Tho is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Rockhampton to enjoy the beach. The town is about 40 kilometers inland from the Capricorn Coast beaches.

Can Tho is not a beach destination.


Is Can Tho or Rockhampton Better for Hiking?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is great for hiking. However, Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors go to Rockhampton for the hiking trails. The area has several national parks that are perfect for an avid bush walker or anyone looking for an afternoon in nature. Whether you're interested in a day trip or overnight camping trip, there are many natural scenic areas nearby.

Can Tho is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Can Tho is a world-class destination for its shopping areas. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for shopping.

Many people travel to Can Tho specifically to go shopping. 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.

Rockhampton is a great destination for shopping. There are several shopping centers in town where you can pick up anything you might need.

Is Can Tho or Rockhampton Better for Families?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Can Tho or Rockhampton.

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.

Rockhampton is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy a visit to the Rockhampton Heritage Village. You can also picnic and walk around the nearby Mount Etna Caves National Park or explore the Capricorn Caves which is about half an hour outside of town. Other kid-friendly places include Kershaw Gardens and Rockhampton Botanic Gardens.


Is Can Tho or Rockhampton Better for Couples?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Both Can Tho and Rockhampton are great 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.

Rockhampton is a very popular place to visit for couples. Near several great national parks and interesting outdoor settings, this is a wonderful couple's destination. There are sunset cruises and beautiful gardens as well as wellness spas and great food and wine.

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

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Can Tho is an excellent place to visit for backpackers and budget travelers. Also, Rockhampton is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for backpackers.

Plenty of budget travelers and 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.

Rockhampton is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. There are a couple of hostels in the area as well as a low key backpacker scene.

Is Can Tho or Rockhampton Better for Students?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Rockhampton is very good for its student-friendly activities. However, Can Tho is not popular with students.

It's common for students to visit Rockhampton. The city has universities that attract an international crowd. It's a friendly setting that welcomes cultural diversity.

Can Tho is not popular with students.


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

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Can Tho and Rockhampton both offer decent public transit to get you around.

Public transit is mostly 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.

Public transit is generally limited in Rockhampton. There are regional buses operated by Sunbus.

Is Can Tho or Rockhampton a more walkable city?

Can Tho
Rockhampton

Can Tho and Rockhampton are good when it comes to walkability.

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

Rockhampton is a somewhat walkable city. It's fun to explore the Riverside Precinct on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Rockhampton or Can Tho?

How long in Can Tho or Rockhampton?

It's fun to spend time in either Can Tho or Rockhampton. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Rockhampton due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Can Tho, and 2-4 days is enough time in Rockhampton.

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

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Can Tho than Rockhampton 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 Can Tho.


  • How many days in Can Tho or Rockhampton? Ideal Length of Stay
    Can Tho 1-2 
    Rockhampton 2-4

One day in Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the unique city of Can Tho. Most people visit for the shopping. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

In Rockhampton, you'll find nightlife and food. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do.


A weekend in Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the fascinating destination of Can Tho. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

In Rockhampton, you'll find food and shopping. 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. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Rockhampton has to offer.

Five days in Can Tho or Rockhampton?

The fascinating city of Can Tho offers shopping and museums. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Rockhampton is a great place to explore. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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 Rockhampton?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Can Tho. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Rockhampton. Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Rockhampton. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. 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 Bicycle Tours in Vietnam, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Vietnam, The Best Food and Culinary Tours in Australia, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Australia.


Which place is cheaper, Rockhampton or Can Tho?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Can Tho is $57, while the average daily cost in Rockhampton is $170. 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 Rockhampton in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Can Tho $27
    Rockhampton $101
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Can Tho $54
    Rockhampton $202
Compare Hotels in Can Tho and Rockhampton

Looking for a hotel in Can Tho or Rockhampton? 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 Rockhampton


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 Rockhampton Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Can Tho $13
    Rockhampton $19

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: $43
  • Private Transfer: Can Tho Airport - Can Tho City Center: $40
  • Private Transfer from Vinh Long to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $105
  • Private Transfer from Thanh Thoi to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $106
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Tan Son Nhat (SGN) Airport: $112
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho City to Can Tho (VCA) Airport: $25
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Ho Chi Minh: $112
  • Private Transfer from Can Tho (VCA) Airport to Can Tho City: $25
  • PRIVATE CAR: Can Tho AIRPORT <=> CanTho Hotels (one way transfer): $30

Is it cheaper to fly into Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Prices for flights to both Rockhampton 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 $17
    Rockhampton $49
Typical Food Prices in Can Tho

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


  • Restaurant Dinner (for Two)
    $5.19
  • Coconut
    $0.28
  • Mango
    $1.08
  • Hot Pot Dinner (for Two)
    $6.95
  • Two Vietnamese Iced Coffees
    $0.64
  • Casual Lunch (for One)
    $2.80

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
  • Explore Can Tho City tour combine Local Food tour - in afternoon: $35
  • Can Tho food tour designed by local chef: $38
  • Street food tour back of the bike in Can Tho: $39
  • Eco Cooking Class and Market Tour: $47
  • Walking street food tour designed by local chef: $47
  • Full-Day Experience in Mekong Cycling and Authentic Home Cooking: $60
  • Can Tho Cooking Class - Motorbike trip in the countryside: $69
  • 2 Days Tour in Can Tho with Boat Trip and Cooking Class : $139

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Can Tho $17
    Rockhampton $40
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
    $2.00
  • Half Day Floating Market Tour
    $8.39

Tours and Activities in Can Tho

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

  • 'Cai Rang' Floating Market 2-Day Tour With Biking & Boating: $140
  • 3-DAY CA MAU CAPE TOUR IN MEKONG DELTA FROM SAI GON: $166
  • A unique tour of the floating market includes a cacao plantation.: $48
  • An Giang Full Day tour visit Tra Su bird sanctuary From Can Tho: $155
  • Bicycle Tour Through Peaceful Villages: $40
  • 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 One Day Private Tour from Ho Chi Minh City: $145
  • Cai Rang Floating Market Tour -Amazing Can Tho : $45
  • Can Tho Sunset Tour : $35
  • Cycling in the village in Can Tho - countryside bike tour: $55

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Can Tho $6.59
    Rockhampton $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
    $3.20


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Can Tho and Rockhampton, we can see that Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Rockhampton 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 Rockhampton Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Can Tho has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Rockhampton. When comparing the sizes of Can Tho and Rockhampton, 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.


When is the best time to visit Can Tho or Rockhampton?

Rockhampton has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, but Can Tho experiences a warm climate with fairly sunny weather most of the year.

Should I visit Can Tho or Rockhampton in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Can Tho and Rockhampton. Warm weather and sunshine bring visitors to Can Tho year-round. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Rockhampton because of the beaches, the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Can Tho is around the same temperature as Rockhampton. Typically, the summer temperatures in Can Tho in July average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 27°C (81°F)in January.

Rockhampton receives a lot of rain in the summer. Can Tho gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Can Tho usually receives more rain than Rockhamptonin January. Can Tho gets 313 mm (12.3 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 124 mm (4.9 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July and January
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F) 
    Rockhampton 27°C (81°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Rockhampton in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Can Tho as well as Rockhampton. Can Tho attracts visitors year-round for its warm weather and sunny climate. Also, the hiking trails, the shopping scene, and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Rockhampton this time of year.

In October, Can Tho is generally a little warmer than Rockhamptonin April. Daily temperatures in Can Tho average around 28°C (82°F), and Rockhampton fluctuates around 23°C (74°F).

Can Tho receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Can Tho usually gets more rain in October than Rockhamptonin April. Can Tho gets 343 mm (13.5 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year. Also, December to April in Can Tho is the dry season. May to November in Can Tho is the rainy season.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October and April
    Can Tho 28°C (82°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Rockhampton in the Winter?

Both Rockhampton and Can Tho are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The warm climate attracts visitors to Can Tho throughout the year. Also, many travelers come to Rockhampton for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Can Tho is much warmer than Rockhampton in the winter. The daily temperature in Can Tho averages around 26°C (78°F) in January, and Rockhampton fluctuates around 16°C (61°F)in July.

In January, Can Tho usually receives less rain than Rockhamptonin July. Can Tho gets 16 mm (0.6 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 29 mm (1.1 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January and July
    Can Tho 26°C (78°F) 
    Rockhampton 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Can Tho or Rockhampton in the Spring?

Both Rockhampton and Can Tho during the spring are popular places to visit. Plenty of visitors come to Can Tho because of the warm climate and sunshine that lasts throughout the year. Furthermore, many visitors come to Rockhampton in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm.

In the spring, Can Tho is a little warmer than Rockhampton. Typically, the spring temperatures in Can Tho in April average around 29°C (84°F), and Rockhampton averages at about 23°C (74°F)in October.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Can Tho. Can Tho usually gets more rain in April than Rockhamptonin October. Can Tho gets 103 mm (4.1 in) of rain, while Rockhampton receives 47 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year. December to April is the dry season in Can Tho. May to November is the rainy season in Can Tho.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April and October
    Can Tho 29°C (84°F) 
    Rockhampton 23°C (74°F)

Typical Weather for Rockhampton and Can Tho

Can Tho Rockhampton
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 26°C (78°F) 16 mm (0.6 in) 27°C (81°F) 124 mm (4.9 in)
Feb 27°C (80°F) 8 mm (0.3 in) 27°C (80°F) 120 mm (4.7 in)
Mar 28°C (82°F) 33 mm (1.3 in) 26°C (78°F) 109 mm (4.3 in)
Apr 29°C (84°F) 103 mm (4.1 in) 23°C (74°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 29°C (84°F) 268 mm (10.6 in) 20°C (69°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 28°C (82°F) 332 mm (13.1 in) 17°C (63°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Jul 28°C (82°F) 313 mm (12.3 in) 16°C (61°F) 29 mm (1.1 in)
Aug 28°C (82°F) 365 mm (14.4 in) 18°C (64°F) 30 mm (1.2 in)
Sep 28°C (82°F) 360 mm (14.2 in) 20°C (69°F) 27 mm (1.1 in)
Oct 28°C (82°F) 343 mm (13.5 in) 23°C (74°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Nov 27°C (81°F) 163 mm (6.4 in) 26°C (78°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 26°C (79°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 27°C (80°F) 125 mm (4.9 in)