1 day
Ho Chi Minh
Following the war, Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, has evolved into a modern developing metropolis while maintaining its ties to the past. Each corner of the city reveals a unique blend of ancient colonial architecture and contemporary skyscrapers. This popular full-day city tour offers a comprehensive overview of Vietnam's largest city. Accompanied by your local guide, explore Saigon’s premier attractions and gain insights into the city’s history, the war it endured, and its rich culture with French and Chinese influences. Conclude your tour with visits to popular local markets and enjoy some shopping time.
By Day | Transfer | Destinations | Activities | Meals |
---|---|---|---|---|
Day 1 | Ho Chi Minh | Explore The Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office, Discover Giac Lam Pagoda, Big Market and Thien Hau Pagoda, End by Ben Thanh Market | L |
Explore The Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office, Discover Giac Lam Pagoda, Big Market and Thien Hau Pagoda, End by Ben Thanh Market
Prepare for a full day of discovering the city. Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest metropolis. Saigon is a vibrant city featuring a unique mix of French colonial architecture, Chinese influences, a modern entrepreneurial spirit, and numerous temples.
Over its 300-year history, Saigon served as the capital of French Indochina and later the independent Republic of South Vietnam. Following the war, the city was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City after President Ho Chi Minh. Today, it is a modern developing urban center that still retains its historical connections. Ancient pagodas and buildings with French elements are still easy to find.
08:00 Begin your tour at The Reunification Palace, the former residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam. On April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese soldier entered this building with a red flag in hand, the whole world knew the Vietnam War had ended.
Next, visit the War Remnants Museum, with stops at Notre Dame Cathedral and the Old Post Office along the way - two of the most famous and oldest examples of French colonial architecture, built over a century ago. The War Remnants Museum features numerous photographs from both Vietnamese and US sources, along with US military vehicles like tanks, jets, and bombs displayed outside.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
After lunch and a brief rest, continue the city tour by exploring the eastern side of the city. Visit Giac Lam Pagoda, the oldest in Ho Chi Minh City, featuring a large Buddha statue system built in 1774. Then, head to Cho Lon (Big Market) and Thien Hau Pagoda, located in Chinatown. This area holds significant historical and cultural importance, with many temples and pagodas in the vicinity. Before concluding the tour, stop for shopping at Ben Thanh Market in the city center.
Return to your hotel. End of services.
Meals
1 lunch
Accommodation
Transport
Car
Included services
Tours as mentioned and air-conditioned transfers
Sightseeing and permit fees during guided times
Meals listed in the itinerary ( 1 lunch)
Expert English-speaking local guide
Mineral water
Service charges and government VAT taxa
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