Discover Saigon With Local Guide – City Tour Half Day

Uncovering the vibrant heart of Saigon has never been easier than with the "Discover Saigon With Local Guide – City Tour Half Day." This comprehensive tour whisks visitors through the city’s iconic landmarks, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural tapestry that defines Vietnam’s bustling commercial hub. From the bustling energy of Ben Thanh Market to the architectural marvels of Saigon Notre Dame Basilica and the Jade Emperor Pagoda, this immersive experience promises to leave participants with a deeper understanding of Saigon’s captivating history and traditions. With a knowledgeable local guide leading the way, the tour promises to be both enlightening and memorable.

Key Points

• Explore Saigon’s top attractions, including Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, and Saigon Central Post Office, on a 4-hour guided city tour.
• Experience the vibrant market life and haggle for deals at the historic Ben Thanh Market, a commercial hub in Saigon since 1914.
• Visit the Neo-Romanesque Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, a popular pre-wedding photography destination with its striking red brick façade and ornate stained-glass windows.
• Admire the architectural marvel of the Saigon Central Post Office, featuring intricate mosaic tiles and a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh.
• Discover the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a spiritual site blending Vietnamese and Chinese influences, dedicated to the Taoist deity.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Saigon City Tour is a half-day exploration of the vibrant city, lasting approximately 4 hours.

This small-group tour, limited to 11 participants, is led by a live English-speaking guide. Travelers can enjoy convenient pick-up and drop-off within central Saigon, as well as comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

The tour includes entrance fees to top attractions, such as the historic Ben Thanh Market, the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, and the architectural marvel of the Saigon Central Post Office.

Bottled water is provided, and participants have the option to visit either the War Remnants Museum or the Reunification Palace.

With free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the rich history and culture of Saigon.

Key Attractions

Established in 1914, Ben Thanh Market is a vibrant hub showcasing local market life with a variety of goods from kitchenware to fresh produce.

The Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, designed in the 1870s by J. Bourad, features imported materials from France and is popular for pre-wedding photos.

The Saigon Central Post Office, a 1891 architectural marvel attributed to Alfred Foulhoux, is known for its ornate design and historical significance.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda, built in 1909, is a spiritual site for locals seeking blessings for various aspects of life.

The tour also includes either the War Remnants Museum or the Reunification Palace, providing insights into Vietnam’s history and architectural heritage.

Ben Thanh Market

Visitors often find themselves captivated by the vibrant energy of Ben Thanh Market, a bustling commercial hub that has been at the heart of Saigon’s local life since its hotel in 1914. This iconic market showcases a diverse array of goods, from fragrant spices and fresh produce to handcrafted souvenirs and vibrant textiles. Navigating its maze-like stalls is an immersive cultural experience, allowing travelers to enjoy the sights, sounds, and aromas that define Saigon’s thriving marketplace. Whether haggling for the best deals or simply soaking in the lively atmosphere, Ben Thanh Market offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history and everyday traditions.

Product	Price Range	Popularity
Spices	$1 – $5	High
Textiles	$5 – $20	Moderate
Souvenirs	$3 – $15	High

Saigon Notre Dame Basilica

Nestled in the heart of Saigon, the neo-Romanesque Saigon Notre Dame Basilica stands as a testament to the city’s rich architectural heritage.

Designed in the 1870s by French architect J. Bourad, the church’s striking red brick façade and towering spires are instantly recognizable.

Inside, visitors are greeted by ornate stained-glass windows and intricate arches, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere.

The basilica has become a popular destination for pre-wedding photography, with its picturesque setting and historical significance drawing couples from around the world.

As a key stop on the city tour, the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s colonial past and the country’s enduring Catholic influences.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Saigon Central Post Office

Across the street from the iconic Saigon Notre Dame Basilica stands another architectural marvel – the Saigon Central Post Office.

Designed in the late 19th century by French architect Alfred Foulhoux, this building is a stunning example of French colonial-era architecture. Visitors can’t help but be captivated by its ornate facades, arched windows, and grand interior.

Key features include:

1. The intricate mosaic tiled floor.
2. The high vaulted ceilings adorned with decorative elements.
3. The large portrait of Ho Chi Minh displayed prominently.
4. The bustling postal services that continue to operate within its historic walls.

This landmark offers a unique glimpse into Saigon’s past and the city’s colonial heritage.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

Built in 1909, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a spiritual site where locals seek blessings for various aspects of their lives. The ornate temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, a Taoist deity. Visitors can explore the intricate altars, incense-filled halls, and numerous statues depicting Buddhist and Taoist figures. The pagoda’s architecture blends Vietnamese and Chinese influences, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere.

Feature	Description
Main Hall	Houses a giant statue of the Jade Emperor
Courtyard	Features a pond with a pair of carved stone dragons
Roof	Adorned with detailed ceramic figurines and dragons
Hours	Daily from 7 AM to 6 PM

The Jade Emperor Pagoda offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich spiritual traditions and cultural heritage.

Inclusions and Booking

The Saigon City Tour provides a comprehensive package for visitors, including pickup and drop-off in central Saigon, transportation in an air-conditioned car or minivan, and entrance fees to the key attractions.

Bottled water is also provided throughout the tour. Some additional details:

1. The tour has a duration of 4 hours and a group size limited to 11 participants.
2. A live English-speaking guide will accompany the group, providing insights and historical context.
3. Customers can cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
4. Pricing starts from K₫628 per person, with tips and personal expenses not included.

Booking can be done online, with the option to reserve a spot without upfront payment.

Recap

The "Discover Saigon With Local Guide – City Tour Half Day" offers an immersive and convenient way to explore Saigon’s iconic landmarks. Guided by a knowledgeable expert, visitors can experience the vibrant culture and history of the city, from the bustling Ben Thanh Market to the serene Jade Emperor Pagoda. With flexible cancellation and a small group size, this tour provides a worry-free adventure for discovering the heart of Saigon.

You can check if your dates are available here: