Ho Chi Minh City Full Day Tour

Overview

Ho Chi Minh 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 full-day city tour unravels Saigon’s turbulent past and provides a glimpse into the city’s fascinating variety.

Highlights

• 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 Jade Emperor Pagoda
• Explore the old quarter of Saigon by visiting Chợ-lớn (China Town).
• Local experience with riding a cyclo throughout alleys and local markets.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off included
• Small-group tour ensures personalized attention

Itinerary

We will visit the following places of interest in the morning:

The Reunification Palace: 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.

After lunch at a local restaurant; we’ll take a cyclo to some of the bustling markets where Sai Gon life thrives: Flower market, pet market, and second-hand market, even the market where accessories and parts for motorcycles are sold… and Binh Tay wholesale market, one of the biggest markets in Ho Chi Minh city.

Your visit to Thien Hau temple, to gain insights into Vietnamese spiritual practices, will be the perfect finale for this enlightening and entertaining tour!

Your driver will complete the excursion by taking you back to your hotel (District 1 only) or drop you off somewhere in the city center as requested.

***Please note that timing and itinerary are subject to change without notice. However, we will do everything we reasonably can to ensure everything goes according to plan.

Visited Attractions

Reunification Palace

War Remnants Museum

Notre Dame Cathedral

Central Post Office

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Binh Tay Market

Thien Hau Pagoda

Inclusions

• Air-conditional minivan transfer
• Cyclo transfer as itinerary
• Vietnamese English-speaking guide
• All admission fees
• 5-course Vietnamese Lunch
• Drinking water (02 bottles of 500ml/Person)
• Local taxes, fees, and handling charges
• Hotel pickup and drop-off (only in District 1)

Exclusions

• Personal expenses
• Tips and Gratuities (recommended)
• Drinks (beer, soft drinks…)
• Travel insurance

Additional Information

• This tour requires minimum 2 participants for the first booking.
• Confirmation will be received within 24 hours of booking, subject to availability
• We pick up guests at several hotels; your hotel might be the first, so please be ready at your hotel lobby by 7:30am, and we’ll come to your door as soon as we can.
• Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Only one under-five free admission per family

Cancellation Policy

• If you cancel at least 7 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is no cancellation fee.
• If you cancel between 3 and 6 days in advance of the scheduled departure, there is a 50 percent cancellation fee.
• If you cancel within 2 days of the scheduled departure, there is a 100 percent cancellation fee.