Ho Chi Minh Half-Day City Tour

Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City as the city is still frequently referred to be Vietnam’s largest city. It is a fast-paced city full of contrasts as street vendors selling fruit and vegetables can be seen next to glitzy western-style bars and boutiques. Saigon’s history is only 300 years old.

In 1859 the city was captured by the French and became the capital of Indochina. From 1956 until its dramatic demise in April 1975 it was the capital of the US-backed Republic of Vietnam. This half-day city tour unravels Saigon’s turbulent past and also provides a glimpse into the fascinating variety the city has to offer.

Highlights

• Half-day history and culture tour of Ho Chi Minh City
• Learn about the Vietnam War at the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum
• Admire the French colonial architecture of Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office.
• Visit to Jade Emperor Pagoda
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Small-group tour ensures personalized attention

Itinerary

We will visit the following places of interest:

The Reunification Palace: Here on April 30th, 1975 the Vietnam War officially ended when tank number 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of what was, at the time the residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam.

War Remnants Museum: Formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this is a poignant display of the futility of war. Some of the black and white photography in the ‘Requiem’ exhibit is particularly touching, dedicated to both foreign and Vietnamese journalists and photographers who perished during the conflict. The courtyard outside contains the spoils of war, namely rusting jets, tanks and cannons captured from the American military machine.

Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office: Built between 1877 and 1883 this is one of the best examples of classical French colonial architecture. Remarkably every stone used in its creation was shipped from France to Vietnam. Her two 40m towers, topped with iron spires dominate the city’s skyline. The Old Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture and is also the country’s largest post office.

Jade Emperor Pagoda: Built in 1909 in honor of the supreme Taoist god, this is one of the most spectacularly atmospheric temples in HCMC, stuffed with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. The pungent smoke of incense fills the air, obscuring the exquisite woodcarvings.

Tour ends at Ben Thanh Market or drive back to your pickup point on request.

Inclusions

• Air-conditional minivan transfer
• Vietnamese English-speaking guide
• All admission fees
• Drinking water (01 bottle of 500ml/Person)
• Local taxes, fees and handling charges
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (only in District 1)