Vietnam’s bustling southern capital showcases its dramatic history through well-organized tours that cut right to the heart of its wartime past. The must-do stops tell a powerful story: the sobering War Remnants Museum exposes the brutal reality of conflict, while the fascinating Cu Chi Tunnels let you experience the incredible underground network used by Vietnamese fighters.
I especially love the walking tours through District 1, where you’ll discover the French colonial architecture of Independence Palace and the lively commerce of Ben Thanh Market. For first-timers, the half-day “Saigon’s Greatest Hits” tour efficiently covers the main sites with knowledgeable guides who share personal family stories from the war era.
Let’s explore the best historical tours that bring Ho Chi Minh City’s past to life.
Key Points
- Ho Chi Minh City offers a range of historical tours, including visits to the War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Independence Palace, and other significant sites.
- Cu Chi Tunnels tours provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to crawl through the underground network and learn about guerrilla tactics used during the Vietnam War.
- Cultural immersion and learning are highlights of the tours, with opportunities to taste local delicacies and interact with knowledgeable guides who share stories about Vietnam’s past.
- Comprehensive city tours cover the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a well-rounded understanding of the city’s history, culture, and heritage.
- Tour options cater to various interests and timeframes, with durations ranging from 2 to 10 hours and prices starting from $19.79 per person.
Private Cu Chi Tunnels Tour – Explore History & Off-the-path Local Sites
This private Cu Chi Tunnels tour provides an immersive exploration into the historical significance of the Cu Chi Tunnels, a vast underground network that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War.
With a private English guide, travelers will gain insight into the tunnels’ construction, usage, and the hardships endured by Viet Cong fighters.
The tour includes visiting hidden bunkers, firing range demonstrations, and a chance to sample local cuisine.
Conveniently located in Ho Chi Minh City, this highly-rated experience offers an opportunity to explore Vietnam’s past while exploring off-the-beaten-path sites.
With a 100% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this private tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts visiting the area.
Read our full review: Private Cu Chi Tunnels Tour – Explore History & Off-the-path Local Sites Review
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Cu Chi Tunnels – Historical Exploration Start At Afternoon
The Cu Chi Tunnels historical exploration begins in the afternoon, providing visitors an immersive journey into Vietnam’s past.
This 6-hour tour departs from Ho Chi Minh City, 60 km away, and is limited to 11 participants. The English-speaking guide leads the group through the iconic tunnels, allowing them to crawl through sections and explore underground kitchens and the Museum of Self-made Weapons.
Visitors will also witness the Hoang Cam Stove, the food supply hub, and watch a documentary about the tunnels’ role during the Vietnam War.
The tour includes free pick-up and drop-off, entrance fees, and light refreshments. Guests can opt to fire an AK-47 for an authentic experience, remembering the resilience and sacrifice of the Viet Cong.
Read our full review: Cu Chi Tunnels – Historical Exploration Start At Afternoon Review
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6 Hours Historical Tour in Cu Chi Tunnel
A 6-hour historical tour takes visitors on an immersive exploration of the iconic Cu Chi Tunnels, located 60 km from Ho Chi Minh City.
This highly recommended experience offers 126 reviews and a 99% satisfaction rate among travelers. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, snacks, fees, and an English-speaking guide.
Participants can optionally try shooting guns. However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
At $19.79 per person, this tour provides an affordable glimpse into Vietnam’s captivating history.
Read our full review: 6 Hours Historical Tour in Cu Chi Tunnel Review
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From Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels and History
Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City can enjoy Vietnam’s captivating history by embarking on a comprehensive 6-hour tour to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. Priced from $36.46 per person, the tour offers an intimate group experience limited to 11 participants.
Guests will discover the underground living areas, kitchens, hospitals, and weapons factories that sheltered Vietnamese forces during the war. After exploring the intricate tunnel system, they’ll visit a rice paper workshop and savor local delicacies.
An optional shooting experience with AK47 or MK16 rifles is available for an additional fee. With free cancellation and flexible booking, this Cu Chi Tunnels tour provides an unforgettable glimpse into Vietnam’s storied past.
Read our full review: From Ho Chi Minh City: Cu Chi Tunnels and History Review
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Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour: Discover Vietnams History From HCM
Although steeped in Vietnam’s captivating history, the Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh City offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into the country’s storied past.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars with 133 reviews, this VIP tour provides a comprehensive exploration of the iconic Cu Chi Tunnels.
Travelers can expect to be led by a professional, English-speaking guide, with optional vehicle transfer, entrance fees, and snacks included.
Highlights involve tasting tapioca and tea, as well as the opportunity to shoot bullets – a unique chance to take in Vietnam’s history.
While not suitable for all, this tour is highly recommended by 98% of previous participants.
Read our full review: Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour: Discover Vietnams History From HCM Review
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Cu Chi Tunnels – Historical Exploration Tour
Nestled within the lush landscapes of Ho Chi Minh City’s Cu Chi District lies the Cu Chi Tunnels – an expansive network that offers visitors a captivating historical exploration.
For $27.85, guests can embark on a 6-hour tour, limited to just 11 participants, and led by an English-speaking guide.
The tour highlights include crawling through sections of the tunnels, exploring bomb craters and weapons exhibits, and witnessing the resilience of the Vietnamese people during the Vietnam War.
With free cancellation and flexible booking, this tour provides an immersive and insightful experience for those seeking to explore Vietnam’s rich history.
Read our full review: Cu Chi Tunnels – Historical Exploration Tour Review
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Saigon Afternoon City Historical Scooter Tour |Opt: Ao Dai Riders
The Saigon Afternoon City Historical Scooter Tour | Opt: Ao Dai Riders offers an exhilarating and insightful way for travelers to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s rich history. With a 5.0 rating from 306 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation, this tour provides an immersive experience, visiting key landmarks like the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. Guests travel by motorbike, avoiding traffic jams and crowds, while guides share their expertise. The tour includes essential safety gear, fuel, and accident insurance. Pickup and drop-off are available for central hotels, and private options are offered. Overwhelmingly positive reviews highlight the thrill of zipping through the city and the knowledgeable guides.
Read our full review: Saigon Afternoon City Historical Scooter Tour |Opt: Ao Dai Riders Review
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Private Cu Chi Tunnels By Car or Scooter – History Tour
Travelers seeking to explore the profound historical significance of the Vietnam War can embark on a private Cu Chi Tunnels tour, accessible by car or scooter from the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
This 6.5-hour excursion offers an in-depth look at the underground network, with the opportunity to crawl through cramped passageways and see reconstructed chambers. Guests will learn about the tunnels’ construction, including kitchens, bedrooms, and weapons factories, while also observing booby traps and handmade guerrilla tools.
The tour includes a documentary film, traditional guerrilla snacks, and an optional visit to a shooting range. With a maximum group size of 12, this small-group experience provides a personalized and immersive exploration of this historical site.
Read our full review: Private Cu Chi Tunnels By Car or Scooter – History Tour Review
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Saigon Historical City Tour
Saigon Historical City Tour offers a captivating exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s rich heritage, seamlessly transitioning from the private Cu Chi Tunnels experience.
This half-day tour whisks you through the city’s highlights by motorbike, immersing you in the sights, sounds, and stories of Vietnam’s vibrant past. Priced from $45 per person, the tour includes bottled water, coffee/tea, and high-quality helmets.
With 123 stellar reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, it’s clear this experience delivers. Knowledgeable guides like Chris, An, Linh, and Henry bring the city to life, blending popular landmarks with lesser-known gems.
Whether you’re seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a deep dive into history, this tour ticks all the boxes.
Read our full review: Saigon Historical City Tour Review
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Explore the Historical Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day Group Tour
Fascinating underground networks and remnants of a bygone era beckon visitors to the Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day Group Tour.
This 6-hour excursion explores the 250km tunnel system used by the Viet Cong during the French and Vietnam Wars. Travelers will learn about the guerrilla fighters’ tactics for hiding, living, and ambushing the enemy.
They can crawl through the tunnels, taste local cuisine, and participate in a rice paper workshop. An AK-47 shooting range is available for an additional cost.
With a maximum of 11 participants, this tour provides a personalized historical experience complete with hotel pick-up, a knowledgeable guide, and all necessary entrance fees and snacks.
Read our full review: Explore the Historical Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day Group Tour Review
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Saigon Morning City Historical Scooter Tour W Ao Dai Rider Option
After exploring the underground networks of the Cu Chi Tunnels, visitors can now embark on a Saigon Morning City Historical Scooter Tour W Ao Dai Rider Option to uncover the aboveground historical gems of Ho Chi Minh City.
This 5-star rated tour, recommended by 100% of travelers, offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s rich history on the back of a scooter, led by an Ao Dai-clad rider.
Included in the tour are high-quality helmets, rain ponchos, accident insurance, and vegetarian options.
With free pickup and drop-off from central hotels, this tour provides a hassle-free way to take in Saigon’s vibrant past, from just $25 per person.
Read our full review: Saigon Morning City Historical Scooter Tour W Ao Dai Rider Option Review
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Sunset Café Experience at Landmark 81 & Food Tour
For those seeking a unique blend of sightseeing and culinary exploration in Ho Chi Minh City, the Sunset Café Experience at Landmark 81 & Food Tour offers a captivating opportunity.
Priced at Kč 1,116 per person, this 3.5-hour tour promises panoramic views of the city from the 75th-76th floor café, as well as a chance to savor Vietnamese culinary delights like bánh xèo.
While the tour includes an English-speaking guide and scooter transportation, it has received mixed reviews, with some customers highlighting pricing concerns, hygiene issues, and communication difficulties.
The tour’s highlights, such as the vibrant local flower market, make it an intriguing option for those eager to enjoy Vietnam’s rich culture.
Read our full review: Sunset Café Experience at Landmark 81 & Food Tour Review
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Highlights of Saigon 1-Day City Tour With Culture & History
Visitors to Ho Chi Minh City seeking a rundown of the city’s rich culture and history can consider the Highlights of Saigon 1-Day City Tour.
This highly-rated tour, recommended by 93% of travelers, takes visitors to the city’s top attractions, including lunch at a local pho restaurant. The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, snacks, and bottled water.
While some travelers felt the tour lacked historical context, the overall rating of 4.7/5 suggests it’s a solid option for those wanting to see the city’s highlights.
Feedback indicates the tour could be improved by providing more in-depth historical information, perhaps through a separate culture and history-focused tour.
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Saigon Historical Half-Day Tour By Car
Travelers seeking a comprehensive introduction to Saigon’s storied history can embark on the Saigon Historical Half-Day Tour By Car. Priced at just $28.67 per person, this 4-hour tour offers a deep dive into the city’s iconic landmarks, including the War Museum, Independence Palace, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, and more.
With a live, multilingual guide, visitors can skip the ticket lines and enjoy a personalized experience. The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, entrance fees, and bottled water.
While past reviews have been mixed, the tour promises an immersive exploration of Saigon’s rich culture and tumultuous past. Travelers can reserve their spot with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Saigon War History & Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day Tour From HCM City
Embarking on a comprehensive exploration of Saigon’s war history and the renowned Cu Chi Tunnels, this full-day tour provides a captivating window into the city’s tumultuous past.
Spanning approximately 9-10 hours, the small group experience (max 15 participants) covers key sites like the Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Complementing the historical immersion, the tour includes Vietnamese-style cuisine, bottled water, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
With pickup available from District 1 hotels, the excursion caters to most travelers, though those with certain medical conditions may be advised against participation.
Priced from $43 per person, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Saigon War History & Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day Tour From HCM City Review
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From Ho Chi Minh: Cu Chi Tunnels – Vietnamese History
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the largest battlefields of the Vietnam War, provides a captivating glimpse into the resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people.
This 4-hour tour from Ho Chi Minh City offers visitors a chance to walk through the intricate tunnel network, once used by Viet Cong guerrillas.
Travelers can learn about the historical significance of the site, watch a documentary, and even crawl through the narrow tunnels to understand guerrilla life.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a light snack.
While additional fees may apply for activities like the shooting range, the overall experience promises a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s wartime past.
Read our full review: From Ho Chi Minh: Cu Chi Tunnels – Vietnamese History Review
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Explore Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon History 1 Day Tour
This captivating one-day tour offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of Ho Chi Minh City.
Explore the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels and discover Saigon’s past with this highly-rated experience. Priced at just $62 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, bottled water, and snacks.
Rated 4.9 out of 5 stars and recommended by 100% of travelers, this tour is both accessible and suitable for those without serious medical conditions.
With a maximum of 10 participants, you’ll enjoy a personalized experience as you uncover the fascinating stories of this vibrant city.
Read our full review: Explore Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon History 1 Day Tour Review
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Exploring Vietnam History of Cu Chi Tunnels Join Group Tour
Visitors can explore the rich history of Vietnam’s Cu Chi Tunnels on this captivating group tour.
Over 6 hours, participants explore the extensive underground network that played a crucial role during the Vietnam War. They’ll discover hidden trap doors, watch a documentary, and learn about the tunnels’ innovative design.
A highlight is tasting local foods like tea and tapioca, which sustained soldiers. There’s also an optional opportunity to shoot AK47 or MK16 rifles.
With pickup and drop-off, transportation, a guide, and entrance fees included, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to this important historical site.
Read our full review: Exploring Vietnam History of Cu Chi Tunnels Join Group Tour Review
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Private Sunset Photography Tour – Travel Through History and Time
Saigon Photography Tours offers a captivating Private Sunset Photography Tour that allows visitors to travel through history and time in Ho Chi Minh City.
This 2.5-hour private tour starts at 2:30 PM and includes private transportation, snacks, and coffee/tea. Participants will explore the city during the golden hour, capturing stunning photographs of the cityscape.
The tour is priced from $69 per person and features free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. With an overall 5-star rating from 9 reviews, this tour is a must-do for photography enthusiasts visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with heart problems or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Private Sunset Photography Tour – Travel Through History and Time Review
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Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon City Tour: Unveiling History
Travelers seeking to unravel the captivating history of Vietnam can embark on the Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon City Tour, a comprehensive exploration of the country’s past.
Priced from €52.23 per person, the one-day tour takes participants through the intricate underground network of the Cu Chi Tunnels and the iconic landmarks of Saigon.
Highlights include crawling through the handcrafted tunnels, visiting the War Remnants Museum, and exploring the Reunification Palace and colonial-era landmarks.
With free cancellation, flexible booking, and a limited group size, this tour offers an immersive and convenient way to explore Vietnam’s rich history.
Read our full review: Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon City Tour: Unveiling History Review
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The Sum Up
Cu Chi Tunnels and Saigon’s historical sites offer visitors a chance to explore Vietnam’s rich history. Whether it’s a private tour or a group experience, these tours provide a unique insight into the country’s past, from the ingenious Cu Chi Tunnels to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh. With a range of options available, travelers can tailor their experience to suit their interests and uncover the fascinating stories that have shaped Vietnam’s heritage.