Small-group Saigon City Tour: 1-day Must-See Icons & Cyclo Ride

Ho Chi Minh City , Vietnam

Small-group Saigon City Tour: 1-day Must-See Icons & Cyclo Ride

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

• 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
• 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

Available options

Private Tour option

Personalized & Flexible route : Pick-up all places in Ho Chi Minh city <br/>Pickup included

Small-Group Option

Small group tours : limited to 12 participants per group.<br/>Aircon shared minivan <br/>Pickup included

What's included

(02 bottles of 500ml/Person)

Local taxes, fees and handling charges

Hu Tiu Nam Vang (Noodle Soup)

Cyclo transfer as itinerary

Hotel pickup and drop-off (only in District 1,3,5)

Air-conditional minivan transfer

Vietnamese English-speaking guide

Detailed itinerary

Saigon 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 also provides a glimpse into the fascinating variety the city has to offer.

We pick up guests at several hotels; your hotel might be the first, so please be ready by 09:00a.m.
Our friendly drivers can take you to Hồ Thị Kỷ Flower Market, where you can enjoy a short walking tour through the busy stalls, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy and scents of this beloved landmark of the local flower trade.

Stop 3

Take a cyclo ride to “Sài Gòn’s Chinatown” in District 5. Visit the Thiên Hậu temple to experience the fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese culture and Bình Tây Market for a vibrant atmosphere filled with goods and produce.

Stop 4 Pass by

We’ll pass by Bình Tây wholesale market, one of the biggest markets in Hồ Chí Minh city.

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

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.

Stop 6

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.

Stop 7

The Old Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture and is also the country’s largest post office.

Stop 8

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.

Stop 9

Bến Thành Market is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Hồ Chí Minh City. It’s a bustling hub of activity where visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture and shop for a variety of goods, from clothing and souvenirs to fresh produce and street food. We’ll drop you back to pick-up point or somewhere in city center as your request.

What's not included

Personal expenses

Tips and Gratuities (recommended)

Drinks (beer, soft drinks

Travel insurance

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

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1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

100 reviews

5★

4★

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1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

This tour requires minimum 2 participants for the first booking.

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

About Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.

Top Attractions

War Remnants Museum

This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Cu Chi Tunnels

A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.

Historical Half-day tour Moderate (tour prices vary)

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Ben Thanh Market

One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.

Market 1-2 hours Budget to Moderate

Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.

Observation Deck 1 hour Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Lunch Vegetarian options available

Com Tam

Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.

Lunch Vegetarian options available

Goi Cuon

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.

Appetizer Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels Boat tours in the Mekong Delta Beach relaxation in Vung Tau Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest Spa and wellness treatments Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum Exploring local markets and temples

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.

25-35°C 77-95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Bargain for better prices at markets

Getting there

By air

Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center

By train

Saigon Railway Station

By bus

Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

District 1 District 3 District 5 (Chinatown) District 7 Phu Nhuan District

Day trips

Mekong Delta

130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

Cu Chi Tunnels

60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day

A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.

Vung Tau

120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day

A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.

Festivals

Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year) Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat