Ho Chi Minh: City Highlights Small Group Full-Day With Lunch

Enjoy the vibrant culture and rich history of Ho Chi Minh City with this small group full-day tour. Discover iconic landmarks, from the awe-inspiring Independence Palace to the thought-provoking War Remnants Museum. Indulge in a delectable local lunch as you explore the city’s unique blend of Vietnamese heritage and colonial architecture. But the adventure doesn’t stop there. Prepare to be captivated by a scenic water bus trip showcasing the city’s dynamic skyline. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking an immersive cultural experience, this tour promises to leave you with lasting memories.

This experience made our list of the 25 Best Lunch Experiences In Ho Chi Minh City.

Key Points

• Comprehensive 8-hour small group tour (up to 12 participants) exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic landmarks, including Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and War Remnants Museum.

• Includes hotel pickup, air-conditioned transportation, local lunch, entrance fees, and a scenic water bus trip along the Saigon River.

• Offers a balanced itinerary highlighting the city’s colonial history, modern architecture, and cultural heritage, with an in-depth experience at the War Remnants Museum.

• Flexible booking with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no upfront payment required.

• Comprehensive inclusions and services provided by an English-speaking guide, ensuring a personalized and well-rounded experience of Ho Chi Minh City.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This Ho Chi Minh City Highlights Tour offers an exciting 8-hour small group experience, priced from €51.05 per person.

The tour is limited to 12 participants, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience. Travelers can enjoy the convenience of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and flexible booking with no upfront payment required.

The tour covers key highlights of the city, including the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum, as well as a scenic water bus trip for panoramic views of the city’s landmarks.

Transportation, lunch, and essential inclusions are provided, making this tour a comprehensive and hassle-free way to explore the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City.

Itinerary Highlights

Commencing the day with a hotel pickup, the tour first visits the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace), an iconic landmark designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu.

Next, the group explores the city’s French colonial structures, including the impressive Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office.

The War Remnants Museum provides an in-depth look at the Indochina wars through its extensive exhibits.

After a local lunch, the exploration continues in Chinatown, where visitors can experience the lively Cho Lon (Big Market) and the serene Thien Hau Pagoda.

The tour culminates with a scenic water bus trip, offering panoramic views of Vinhomes Central Park, Landmark 81, and Bitexco Financial Tower.

Transportation and Inclusions

The tour includes pickup from the hotel lobby, with guests advised to wait up to 5 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned bus and a water bus for scenic views. The tour includes the following:

Inclusions	Exclusions
English-speaking tour guide	Tips
Entrance fees	Personal expenses
Lunch	Services not mentioned
1 bottle of mineral water per person	–
Water bus ticket	–
Travel insurance	–

The tour provides a well-rounded experience, allowing visitors to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s landmarks, historical sites, and the vibrant atmosphere along the Saigon River.

Independence Palace and French Colonial Structures

The tour begins at the iconic Independence Palace, the former residence of the President of South Vietnam. Designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu, the palace reflects the country’s history and political significance.

Next, visitors explore the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Nearby, the impressive Central Post Office, also a French colonial structure, showcases the city’s rich architectural heritage.

These landmarks provide a glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s past, blending traditional Vietnamese culture with European influences. As the tour progresses, participants gain a deeper understanding of the city’s complex history and the enduring impact of its colonial past.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

War Remnants Museum and Lunch

After exploring the iconic French colonial landmarks, the tour continues to the War Remnants Museum.

This sobering museum offers extensive exhibits on the Indochina wars, providing visitors with a deeper understanding of the region’s turbulent history. Guests will have the opportunity to examine a collection of military equipment, photographs, and personal artifacts that vividly depict the human toll of these conflicts.

Following the museum visit, the group will enjoy a local lunch, savoring the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine in a relaxed setting.

This balanced itinerary allows participants to gain historical insights while also experiencing the vibrant culture and cuisine of Ho Chi Minh City.

Exploring China Town and Thien Hau Pagoda

Venturing into China Town, the group explores the bustling Cho Lon (Big Market), a vibrant hub of commerce and cultural exchange.

Weaving through the maze of stalls, they encounter a diverse array of goods, from traditional herbs and spices to intricate handicrafts.

The group then visits the Thien Hau Pagoda, a stunning 19th-century temple dedicated to the goddess of the sea.

Ornate altars, intricate carvings, and the fragrance of incense create an atmosphere of serenity and spirituality.

As they wander through the pagoda’s serene courtyards, the group gains insights into the rich cultural heritage that permeates every corner of Ho Chi Minh City.

Scenic Water Bus Trip

Departing from the bustling streets of China Town, the group boards a water bus for a scenic journey along the Saigon River.

This relaxing ride offers breathtaking views of Vinhomes Central Park, Landmark 81, and the Bitexco Financial Tower. As the boat glides through the waterway, passengers can admire the dynamic skyline and get a glimpse of the city’s rapid development.

The tranquil atmosphere on the water provides a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the streets. This water bus trip allows travelers to appreciate the city from a unique perspective, showcasing the bustling energy and modern architecture that define Ho Chi Minh City.

Important Information and Experience

Travelers can notify the tour operator about any food allergies or special requests in advance, ensuring their needs are accommodated.

While entrance fees, lunch, and transportation are included, tips, personal expenses, and other services not mentioned are excluded.

This immersive adventure through Ho Chi Minh City allows participants to explore landmarks, historical sites, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city, including the scenic water bus trip along the Saigon River.

The tour showcases the essence of Saigon, once known as the "Paris of Indochina."

At the end of the trip, travelers will be transferred back to their hotel or the meeting point around 6 PM.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

The maximum group size for this tour is limited to 12 participants. This small group size allows for a more personalized and intimate experience as participants explore the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City together.

Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no specified dress code for this tour. Travelers should wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. No formal attire is required, and the tour allows for casual, relaxed attire.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can be customized to individual preferences. Travelers can notify the tour operator about any special requests or dietary requirements in advance, allowing the experience to be tailored to their needs.

How Accessible Is the Tour for People With Disabilities?

The tour’s accessibility for people with disabilities is not explicitly stated. However, the tour provider likely offers accommodations upon request, such as wheelchair-accessible transportation and assistance, to ensure an inclusive experience. Guests should inquire about specific accessibility needs when booking.

Are There Any Age Restrictions or Requirements for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions or requirements. Children of all ages are welcome to join the tour, which is suitable for families and individuals alike.

Recap

This Ho Chi Minh City tour offers a comprehensive introduction to the city’s vibrant culture and history. Visitors will explore iconic landmarks, indulge in local cuisine, and experience the city’s dynamic waterways, all with the convenience of hotel pickup and expert guidance. It’s an ideal way to take in the unique blend of Vietnamese heritage and colonial architecture that defines this captivating destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: