Travel Guides
Explore Ho Chi Minh City with These Amazing Tours
Introduction: Overview of Amazing Tours in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and one of the most vibrant cities in Southeast Asia. Situated near the banks of the Saigon River and bordering Cambodia, Ho Chi Minh City has become a popular tourist destination, with its bustling metropolitan atmosphere, amazing sights and attractions, delicious cuisines, and friendly locals.
Often referred to as the ‘Paris of the East’ due to its French colonial past, the city itself is home to a fascinating mix of cultural influences that span centuries. With its architectural wonders, colonial landmarks, vibrant markets, and lively nightlife, it’s no wonder tourists flock to the city in droves.
A visit to Ho Chi Minh City wouldn’t be complete without exploring the city’s many attractions. Some of the more popular sites include the Reunification Palace, which served as a government HQ during the Vietnam War; Notre Dame Cathedral, a French Romanesque-styled cathedral; and the War Remnants Museum, which showcases the lasting effects of the Vietnam War.
Other must-see spots include the Central Post Office, an impressive building designed by the famous French architect Gustave Eiffel; the Cu Chi Tunnels, a complex underground network of tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War; and the legendary Ben Thanh Market, where visitors can wander around and explore the myriad of stalls offering local souvenirs, food, clothes, and much more.
The city also boasts an abundance of green spaces. Parks and gardens such as Tao Dan Park, Tao Dien Garden, and history-filled Hoang Van Thu Park offer respite among the city’s hustle and bustle. The nearby Ho Chi Minh City Zoo and Botanical Gardens are also popular attractions.
For foodies, Ho Chi Minh City is a veritable paradise. From hawker stalls to high-end eateries, visitors can savour a multitude of Vietnamese cuisine. Popular dishes include banh cuon (rice noodle rolls), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and ca phe sua da (Vietnamese iced coffee).
Weather and Best Months to Visit Ho Chi Minh City
The weather in Ho Chi Minh City generally falls under the category of moist tropical and semi-arid climates. The city has two distinct seasons. The dry season is from December to April when temperatures remain hot, but rarely exceed 34 degrees Celsius. The wet season is from May to November accompanied by torrential rain and humidity levels reaching up to 85 percent.
Regardless of the season, Ho Chi Minh City has relatively high temperatures throughout the year. Hikers may choose to avoid the wet months as the humidity may make the journey a bit unbearable. However, if gusty winds and low humidity are important factors in your decision, then April is an excellent time to visit. The temperature is still hot, and the breeze makes the experience much more enjoyable.
If you are planning to visit Ho Chi Minh City, the best months are likely between December and March. These months are the most popular as they are cooler and drier than the rest of the year, making activities and sightseeing much more enjoyable. During these times of year, you will also be able to experience two major festivals – the Tet Festival in February and the Reunification Day in April.
Adventure Tours: Description of Adventure Tours & Activities
Experience mesmerising beauty of the limestone karsts in Nghe An province, and cruise your way through a lush mangrove forest in Vung Tau area, while you soak in the vitality of this city.
Below we have listed some of the most exciting adventure activities and tours you can enjoy in Ho Chi Minh City & surrounds:
Cable car adventure tour:
Take in the breath-taking beauty of Ho Chi Minh City from the diving cable car. The cable car offers a complete view of the city and its surrounding landscapes. The ride will take you across the length of the city with stops in popular temples, pagodas and other cultural highlights.
Kite surfing and windsurfing:
Surf your way through the waters of Vung Tau beach for an action-packed afternoon. You can learn to kite-surf and windsurf from any of the professional instructors or rent a surfboard and hit the waves.
Rock climbing:
Experience the thrill of scaling a limestone cliff in Nghe An province. Even if you are a beginner, you can get professional assistance from the many walls climbing outfitters here.
Waterfall jumping:
Hon Ba Waterfall is one of the most popular destinations for waterfall jumping lovers. With a jump platform of about 2.5m, you can jump from varying heights to conquer your fears of plunging into the deep waters.
Canyoning:
Experience the thrill of rappelling down into the abyss with the help of rope and harnesses. The areas surrounding Vietnam provides some of the best canyoning adventures for nature and adventure lovers.
Scuba diving:
Underwater paradise comes to life when you head on to any of the coral reefs and coral walls in Vietnam. The blue waters of the region provide a surreal experience for scuba-diving fanatics and novices alike.
Kayaking:
Paddle your way through the crystal-clear waters and across the mangrove forests of Vung Tau area. With professional instructors to guide your way, you don’t need to worry anymore if you are a novice.
Romantic Tours: List of Romantic Tours Available
From exploring nearby islands to taking a romantic cruise, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the most romantic tours that couples should consider when visiting these stunning destinations.
- Cruise the stunning Mekong River on a romantic tour that takes passengers through breath-taking landscape. Stop off at quaint riverside villages or simply relax on the deck while passing through picturesque scenery.
- Enjoy a romantic cruise along Halong Bay, taking in beautiful limestone cliffs and floating fishing villages. Stop off at Cat Ba Island for some private beach time and explore incredible sea caves while cruising around one of the most beautiful bays in the world.
- Take a tour of the incredible Cu Chi Tunnels, which allowed the Viet Cong to evade US bombing during the Vietnam War. This educational tour offers stunning insight into the history of the country, as well as opportunities to explore the lush jungle surrounding the tunnels.
- Take a romantic ride through one of the many vibrant floating markets in Ho Chi Minh City. Explore the many bargains to be found on the riverside boats and get lost in the hustle and bustle of the tight-knit community that trades their goods here.
- Take a day trip out to Can Tho for a romantic tour of the lush countryside and traditional villages that surround the city. Enjoy a tranquil ride through the surrounding rice paddy fields and delta towns for a relaxed tour of the countryside.
- Cruise the Mekong Delta on a romantic journey through colourful riverside towns and lush countryside. Stop off for authentic local dinners and partake in river-side activities, such as cycling and fishing.
- Explore the pulsating dunes and rolling hills of Mui Ne with a romantic tour that takes couples to this unique part of Vietnam. Enjoy a serene ride on quad bikes followed by a stop off for a sunset dinner and some stargazing. All this and more on the beaches and sand dunes that make the area so appealing.
Wellness Tours: Overview of Wellness & Relaxation Tours
From luxurious spa days to traditional spiritual experiences, these wellness tours provide visitors with an opportunity to foster a sense of inner balance and vitality.
Spa Days
If you’re looking for a way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, then a spa day is the perfect choice. Located throughout Ho Chi Minh City, spas offer a range of services, from full-body massages to beauty treatments. Some offer packages that combine a slew of relaxing treatments, making them perfect for visitors who want a luxurious getaway. Here, you can enjoy a massage, have your hair done, and even indulge in beauty treatments such as facials, manicures, and pedicures. The atmosphere of these spas is cosy and calm, providing visitors with the perfect opportunity to relax and unwind.
Yoga Tours
If physical relaxation and exercise is the goal, then look no further than a yoga tour. Led by knowledgeable guides, yoga tours provide a unique combination of physical and spiritual wellness, allowing visitors to focus on relaxation and re-aligning their body, mind, and spirit. From beginners to experienced practitioners, visitors can learn about the various types of yoga practices, including Hatha, Vinyasa, and Ashtanga. These yoga tours often visit picturesque spots in Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings, including beautiful city parks and sacred temples.
Cooking Classes
Cooking classes are also a great way to experience the culture and cuisine of Vietnam. With the help of local chefs, visitors can learn about the ingredients and cooking techniques that make up the delicious traditional dishes of the area. From making delicious pho and spring rolls to learning how to make fried shrimp cakes and other local favourites, these classes give participants the opportunity to discover the unique culinary specialties of the region.
Spiritual Experiences
For those looking for a spiritual experience, Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings are home to numerous sacred sites which are great for a transformative patient experience. From visits to authentic Buddhist temples to educational sites that illustrate the area’s history and culture, visitors can explore the spiritual side of the region and connect with their inner self.
City Highlights Tour: Description & Details of Beach Tours
Its history, culture, and vibrancy make it one of the most-visited cities in Southeast Asia, and its must-see attractions ensure that it offers something for everyone.
For those on the hunt for a unique and illuminating experience, there’s no better way to explore the city than on a City Highlights Tour. Operating all year round, this fun-filled tour gives you the full lowdown on Ho Chi Minh City and its many attractions, from the colonial mansions of District 1 to the bustling street-food markets of Chinatown. There’s something new to discover around every corner.
Your tour begins in the heart of downtown, where you can wander down Nguyen Hue Walking Street and admire the grand French colonial-era mansions. You’ll also explore the famous Ben Thanh Market, the bustling nightlife districts, and the infamous Cu Chi tunnels.
Your tour guide will regale you with tales of the city’s fascinating history, from the years under French colonial rule to the Vietnam War and beyond. You can visit some of the city’s breath-taking temples, including Giac Lam Pagoda and Quoc Tu Pagoda. Be sure to snap a few pictures to capture the moment!
If you’re looking to soak up the vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh City, the tour also offers the chance to explore a variety of street food markets. Here you can taste local specialties such as pho, banh mi, and che. Alternatively, sip a cool refreshing cocktail in the trendiest bars or sample some of the local craft beer.
The full City Highlights Tour experience typically takes around four hours and fully immerses visitors in all that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer. It’s a great way to explore the city in a short space of time and without spending too much money.
Family Tours: Overview & Features of Family Tour Packages
Whether you’re wanting to explore some of the city’s many museums, temples, and monuments or get a taste of the culture and cuisine, family tours in Ho Chi Minh City and the surrounding areas are sure to leave you with a lasting impression.
One great feature of Ho Chi Minh City family tours is the ability to tailor them to your individual travel needs. There are several tour packages available ranging from single-day excursions to longer trips that span several days. These tours are generally suitable for all ages, whether you have toddlers or teenagers.
Family tours in Ho Chi Minh City can be very adventurous and often feature visits to renowned buildings such as the Reunification Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. These tours allow families to learn about some of the city’s history and culture. Other tours may include boat trips to nearby islands or a visit to a local market.
The surrounding areas of Ho Chi Minh City offer a wealth of cultural and historical activities. From cave exploration in Cat Ba National Park to a traditional cooking class in Hoi An, families can be sure to find activities that everyone will enjoy. Beach visits are also popular, with activities such as swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking available. Rides on the legendary wooden junk boats, which wind through the picturesque waterscape of Halong Bay, are a must.
For those looking for a more refined experience, Ho Chi Minh City is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, and cultural attractions. For a truly unique experience, consider a private tour with a local guide. They can provide invaluable insight into the area’s traditions and can offer tips on where to find the best food.
No matter your family’s travel style, Ho Chi Minh City and the nearby provinces have everything to make your family tour a memorable one.
Cultural Tours: Overview & Highlights of Main Cultural Tours
Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1: This infamous district is the beating heart of Vietnam and is where you will find a vibrant cultural mix of both old-world charm and modernity. Home to historical sites such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, District 1 also has its fair share of luxury hotels, modern malls, and bustling restaurants and night clubs that make it the ideal spot to explore and experience Vietnamese culture. Plus, visiting the nearby Ben Thanh Market and Cho Lon Market will certainly be a feast for all your senses.
Saigon Outskirts Exploration Tour: Travelling outside of Ho Chi Minh City reveals an entirely different world – one full of sprawling rice fields, tranquil backwaters, and friendly locals. Taking a day trip to places such as Ben Tre and My Tho gives you a real taste of rural Vietnam, where you can explore ancient pagodas, charming markets and learn about traditional handicrafts.
Another option is to explore the culture of the Mekong Delta region. From Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can take a boat tour down the Mekong River to the nearby towns of Sa Dec and Tan Linh. Along the way, visitors will get to experience lush landscapes filled with rice paddies and vegetation, as well as local life. This tour ends with a visit to the Cai Be floating market, where all kinds of delicious foods and drinks can be sampled.
Finally, a visit to the Mekong River Delta region can be complemented with a visit to the cultural hub of Can Tho City. This city is in the heart of the Mekong Delta, and is known for its vast and vibrant markets, bustling with locals and tourists alike. Visitors can take in the sights and sounds of the local culture, as well as sample traditional dishes from the many street stalls and restaurants that line the streets.
Go Kayaking in the Mekong Delta: The Mekong Delta is where the spirits and the tranquillity of the past linger and will surely be an unforgettable experience. A deep exploration of the delta’s winding waterways by kayak will give you unparalleled access to local fishing villages, lush mangrove forests, and even bustling floating markets.
Cu Chi Tunnels Tour: A fascinating and eye-opening experience, the Cu Chi Tunnels will allow you to discover how the Vietnamese managed to survive during the war and fought a much larger military. Visiting the network of tunnels and tasting the special rice homemade by the locals will truly be a unique experience.
Nature Tours: Description & Details of Nature & Wildlife Tours
A nature tour in Ho Chi Minh usually begins with a trip to Cát Tiên National Park, one of the largest protected areas in the region. The park is home to a wide variety of species, including rare Gibbons, tigers, various birds and even the famous Asian elephant. You can take a guided tour of the park or hire your own guide to get the most out of your experience.
Another great stop for nature lovers is Ba Vi National Park, located just north of Hanoi. Here, you’ll find an incredible array of plants and animals, including monkeys, antelopes, civets, and nocturnal cats. The park is also home to a variety of bird species, and you may even spot some endangered species. You can take a guided tour or explore the park on your own.
For those seeking a unique experience, head to Phong Nha National Park. Here, you can explore one of the world’s largest systems of underground caves and grottoes as well as beautiful waterfalls and lush forest areas. You can also take an up-close tour of the area’s unique wildlife, including mammals, reptiles, amphibians, and birds. And if you’re lucky, you may even spot a rare wildcat or jaguar.
Finally, don’t forget to check out Long Khinh Nature Reserve near Ho Chi Minh. This scenic area is home to several different animal species, including sun bear, wild boar, weasels, and macaques. You can observe these creatures in their natural habitat on an eco-tour or explore the area’s walking trails to catch a glimpse of unique birds.
Another popular type of nature tour is a night safari. Participants can learn about nocturnal wildlife by embarking on a tour with experienced guides, using flashlights and night-vision scopes to track wildlife including flying foxes, pangolins, and owls.
River cruises in the Mekong Delta are popular options for those looking for a more relaxed tour. Tour operators can provide boat trips down the numerous rivers running through the region, allowing participants to take in the scenery and enjoy looking out for exotic birds, including storks, ibises, and cotton Pygmy geese.
For the more intrepid travellers, boat trips or kayaking trips are available in the emerald-green waters of Can Gio Mangrove Forest, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Tour participants can paddle out and explore a variety of types of mangrove habitats, all while looking out for birds, monkeys, reptiles, and amphibians.
Motorbike Tours: Overview & Highlights of Motorbike Routes
Seeing Ho Chi Minh from the seat of a motorbike gives you an entirely different experience than looking at it as a tourist would. The city is bustling with vibrant life and culture and its many markets and street carts offer a range of local dishes and snacks that can’t be found anywhere else. Stunning natural landscapes also await travellers, from stretches of lush green fields and rolling hills to waterfalls and lush valleys.
Motorbike routes around Ho Chi Minh are as varied and numerous as the attractions the city has to offer. A few of the highlights of motorbike routes in Ho Chi Minh include the Cu Chi Tunnels, Cao Dai Temple, Mekong Delta, Cat Tien National Park and the beautiful beaches of Dun Nhai.
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see destination for visitors interested in learning about the history of the Vietnam War. The tunnels were used by the Viet Cong during the conflict and visitors can visit the tunnels, explore the underground bunkers, and learn about the strategic importance of the area.
The Cao Dai Temple is an ornate and vibrant temple complex dedicated to a syncretic religion of Caodaism that combines elements of several religious traditions. The complex is filled with ritual and visual wonders, and it serves as a great way to experience art and culture across different religious lines.
The Mekong Delta is one of the most famous routes for motorbike tours as it encompasses a huge variety of landscapes, sites, and culture. It is possible to explore the Delta in a handful of days though extended itineraries can be arranged. Common sites along the route include Mekong markets, floating villages, and unique local produce.
Cat Tien National Park is serenity in its purest form. This untamed forest features endangered species of plants and animals, an impressive network of caves, and pristine rivers.
Finally, Dun Nhai Beach offers travellers a great opportunity to soak up some sun, wade in turquoise waters, or simply relax in a beach chair and enjoy the scenery.
Local Life Tours: Overview & Features of Unique Local Life Tours
The Tours feature a mix of guided exploration of the city and its attractions, including visits to markets, temples, streets, cafes, and even open-air food vendors. It helps to get an insider’s view of the city, without feeling overwhelmed.
As tours are tailored to the individual needs of each participant, the routes often vary. This makes each experience unique. For example, tours may include a stop at the historic Reunification Palace, a visit to the War Remnants Museum, a cruise down the Saigon River, or a trip to a Taoist Temple.
Tours can be anything from a one-day tour to a two-week journey. No matter the length of the tour, each participant can expect a fun-filled day of learning about the local culture and history of the area. For the more adventurous, special local experiences such as a cooking class, martial arts lessons, or a bike ride around the city could be arranged.
Local life tours provide participants with an immersive and interactive experience that involves exploring local markets, wandering secret alleyways, and visiting the hidden gems of Ho Chi Minh City, many of which are often overlooked by tourists. On these tours, travellers get to mingle with locals, sample traditional Vietnamese dishes, and immerse themselves in the culture of the city.
Local life tours cater to different interests and are designed to suit the needs of everyone. The tour guides guiding the groups are extremely knowledgeable and are often locals who can offer insight information on the city’s best kept secrets. They’ll take you to places off the beaten path in Ho Chi Minh City, as well as to nearby attractions and emerging neighbourhoods. Tourists will get the chance to dive deep into the culture, history, and lifestyle of the city – an experience that can be quite unique and unforgettable.
In addition, Ho Chi Minh City’s local life tours also offer cultural activities and demonstrations of traditional arts and crafts. During the tours, travellers can watch live performances, taste authentic dishes, and partake in other activities that give them a taste of what life is like on the ground.
Getting to explore and uncover the hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City and its surrounding areas is one of the most rewarding aspects of taking a local life tour. Some of the most popular places to visit on a local life tour are Ben Thanh Market, War Remnants Museum, Mariamman Temple, and Suoi Tien Theme Park. In addition, taking a day trip out of the city into the rural areas can provide an even more exciting and immersive experience.
Culinary Tours: Overview & Features of Culinary Tours
Culinary tours offer travellers a chance to immerse themselves in local cuisine, often cooking and sampling dishes in some of the city’s finest restaurants.
Culinary tours in Ho Chi Minh encompass a wide variety of foods, from classic Vietnamese dishes to international flavours from many different countries. Tourists can visit some of the city’s colourful markets to get a taste of the freshest produce, seafood, and spices. The markets also provide an opportunity to learn about traditional Vietnamese culture and foodways. From fragrant pho and savoury banh mi to freshly prepared spring rolls and other Vietnamese classics, visitors have the chance to taste a variety of authentic Vietnamese flavours.
For international visitors, the culinary tours of Ho Chi Minh offer a chance to discover and enjoy foods from around the world. From Indian, Thai, and Filipino favourites to European specialties, the city boasts a myriad of delicious dishes. Many tour companies offer expeditions that take travellers to the best restaurants in Ho Chi Minh, where they are guided by professional chefs to learn about and try different cuisines.
In addition to some of the city’s premier restaurants, Ho Chi Minh’s culinary tours also offer guests the chance to explore the countryside and its surrounding regions. From the old rural towns in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta to the breath-taking mountain scenery of Da Lat, tour participants can explore the unique culture and rituals associated with local food production. Guests might learn to help prepare sticky rice with freshly harvested ingredients, visit local farm-to-table restaurants to sample exquisite local dishes, or go fishing with a traditional Vietnamese fishing boat.
Finally, Ho Chi Minh’s culinary tours are an excellent way to form meaningful connections with the locals. By cooking and eating in people’s homes, travellers can learn the stories behind the food as well as gain insights into Vietnamese culture and its people. Through this immersive experience, visitors can come away with not only unforgettable memories, but also a better understanding of the region and its food.
Accommodation Options in Ho Chi Minh City
When it comes to accommodation, the city offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all types of budgets and tastes. Here, we take a closer look at some of the most popular accommodation options available in Ho Chi Minh City.
If you’re after a luxurious stay, try Sofitel Plaza Saigon, Park Hyatt Saigon, or JW Marriott Hotel Saigon. These hotels offer spacious rooms with all the amenities you’d expect for a comfortable stay. Caravelle Saigon, located in the heart of the city, is a reasonable alternative if you’re looking to save a bit of cash. Or if you’re after something more unique, the iconic Saphire Mytho Saigon Hotel offers hosted rooms in the old town and boasts a pool and spa.
For budget-conscious travellers, hostels and guesthouses are the best option. Located in the city centre, these properties offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities at competitive prices. Many of these establishments offer shared kitchens and living areas, making them a great choice for group visitors. Hostels and guesthouses can also be a great way to meet fellow travellers and make new friends.
For those looking for a more luxurious experience, hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer a range of accommodation options. These hotels provide guests with a variety of amenities such as fully-equipped rooms, on-site restaurants, swimming pools, spas, and a range of other services. Business travellers may be interested in the hotels that offer executive lounge access and boardroom facilities.
For a truly unique experience, homestay accommodation is recommended. Homestays allow guests to live with a Vietnamese family and learn more about the culture and customs. Hosts provide comfortable accommodation, meals, and activities, allowing visitors to gain insights into everyday life in Vietnamese society.
Apart from the above-mentioned accommodation options, Ho Chi Minh City also offers camping sites, vacation rentals, and villas. For those looking for an all-in-one experience, holiday resorts situated near the city are an ideal choice. These resorts provide everything needed for a relaxing and comfortable holiday in one convenient location.
Conclusion of Ho Chi Minh City: A Fabulous Adventurous Location
The hustle and bustle of Saigon contrasts dramatically to the tranquillity of its many rural villages, giving tourists a unique glimpse into Vietnamese culture and life. Tourists visiting the city can experience the diverse local cuisine, vibrant nightlife, and fascinating history that the city and its surroundings have to offer.
Outside of the city lies a variety of exotic landscapes, which can be explored on an exciting range of tours and activities. The stunning rivers and beaches of the Mekong Delta can be experienced on boat trips, which open up opportunities to visit the villages within the region as well as to explore its fascinating flora and fauna. Different tours also offer exciting opportunities for adventure seekers who want to explore Cu Chi Tunnels or join in the countless water sports available in nearby Ho Coc.
Travelling to the north of the city provides the opportunity to explore the fascinating culture of the ethnic minority peoples that inhabit it. Market towns such as Cao Bang, which is accessible from Ha Long Bay, offer a wealth of hospitality and handicrafts can be found at local Cao Bang Markets. Further north are opportunities to explore rugged mountain trekking routes, that provide a fantastic insight into the local culture of different communities and some breathtakingly beautiful views out over the mountainous landscape of the north.
Finally, the historical and cultural attractions of the city itself should not be ignored. Holidays in Ho Chi Minh offer tourists the chance to explore the city’s iconic sites, such as the War Remnants Museum, Ho Chi Minh City Hall and Reunification Palace. Other attractions include the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office and the Bitexco Financial Tower.
Overall, the city of Ho Chi Minh and its surrounding areas have some of the most spectacular and thrilling tours in Vietnam. The dynamic culture that exists in the city is further complimented by the tranquil rural villages and breath-taking landscapes that make up the surrounding areas.
