Embarking on a captivating exploration of Saigon City and Chinatown promises an immersive cultural experience. Complemented by a refreshing water bus adventure, this 5-star tour offers a unique blend of vibrant landmarks and stunning sights. Visitors can witness the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, bargain at the lively Binh Tay Market, and savor a delectable Vietnamese-style lunch, all while gaining insights from an English-speaking guide. As the tour glides along the Saigon River, the dynamic skyline unfolds, leaving travelers eager to uncover more of this captivating destination.
About Our Review: We hope you find our review helpful! Though we don’t operate tours, you can easily book this experience using the button at the bottom of this page. If you do make a booking, we will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Key Points
- Comprehensive full-day tour exploring the highlights of Saigon City and Chinatown, including iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and a water bus adventure along the Saigon River.
- Priced at $45 per person, the tour includes bottled water, a Vietnamese-style lunch, all entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
- Convenient pickup options and flexible cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the experience, ensuring a hassle-free planning process.
- Not recommended for individuals with certain health conditions, and infants must sit on laps, ensuring a safe and enjoyable tour for all.
- Discover the blend of ancient traditions and modern influences in the vibrant streets of Saigon, as well as the rich Chinese culture of Chinatown.
More tours and experiences nearby.
Tour Overview and Details
This comprehensive tour offers travelers the opportunity to explore the vibrant Saigon City and the captivating Chinatown district.
Dubbed "Saigon City and Chinatown Exploration with Water Bus Adventure," the 5-star rated tour provides a full-day adventure through Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Priced at $45 per person, the tour accommodates up to 14 travelers, starting at 8:30 am.
It includes bottled water, a Vietnamese-style lunch, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and a waterbus ticket. Pickup is available from the meeting point or by request.
While not recommended for certain medical conditions, the tour is accessible to most travelers. Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the experience.
Inclusions
The tour includes a variety of amenities to enhance the sightseeing experience.
Travelers will receive bottled water to stay hydrated throughout the day. A Vietnamese-style lunch is also provided, allowing participants to sample authentic local cuisine.
Entrance fees to all the attractions on the itinerary are covered, so there are no additional costs. An English-speaking professional guide will accompany the group, providing insightful commentary and ensuring a seamless experience.
Transportation is by air-conditioned vehicle, and a waterbus ticket is included for the river cruise portion of the tour.
All taxes are paid, and tips for the guide and driver are also included in the tour price.
Pickup Information
Travelers can meet the group at the designated meeting point, located on Bui Vien Street in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City.
Pickup options include directly at the meeting point or by requesting a pickup from the tour provider.
To facilitate the process, travelers should provide their hotel name, address, phone number, any food allergies, flight plans, and a passport photo (for overnight stays).
The tour also accommodates children, with one child under 5 years old free of charge, while a second child under 5 must purchase a ticket.
- Meeting point: Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Pickup options: Directly at meeting point or request pickup
- Required information: Hotel details, food allergies, flight plans, passport photo
- Child policy: 1 child under 5 free, 2nd child under 5 must buy ticket
Health and Accessibility
According to the tour details, the Saigon City and Chinatown Exploration tour isn’t recommended for travelers with certain health conditions.
Specifically, it’s not suitable for those with back problems, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers. Infants must sit on laps, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.
However, most travelers can participate. The tour operator advises guests to consider their physical abilities before booking.
This ensures everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the vibrant Saigon cityscape and the captivating Chinatown district by water bus.
Cancellation and Special Notes
Providing free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, the tour operator accommodates travelers’ schedule changes.
However, extra charges may apply on holidays and special occasions.
Plus, the Binh Tay market isn’t included in the program during January 23-28, 2020.
Customers should review these details carefully when booking.
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
- Extra charges apply on holidays and special occasions
- Binh Tay market not included in the program during Jan 23-28, 2020
- Customers should review details carefully when booking
Exploring Saigon City
The bustling streets of Saigon City offer a captivating blend of ancient traditions and modern influences, setting the stage for an immersive exploration.
During the tour, visitors will explore the city’s vibrant history, visiting iconic landmarks like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the iconic Reunification Palace.
The bustling Binh Tay Market in Chinatown provides a glimpse into the local way of life, where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices and the sounds of lively bargaining.
The water bus adventure along the Saigon River offers a unique perspective, allowing travelers to witness the city’s skyline from a different vantage point.
This comprehensive tour provides an engaging introduction to the energy and diversity of Saigon.
Discovering Chinatown
Leaving the bustling streets of central Saigon behind, the tour takes visitors on a captivating journey into the vibrant heart of Chinatown.
Immersed in a rich tapestry of Chinese culture, the group explores the iconic Binh Tay Market, renowned for its diverse array of goods and culinary delights.
Visitors can:
- Peruse the stalls, haggling for unique trinkets and souvenirs
- Sample authentic Vietnamese-Chinese cuisine at local eateries
- Admire the intricate architecture of historic temples and pagodas
- Witness the bustling activities of the neighborhood’s tight-knit community
This immersive experience provides a glimpse into the centuries-old traditions and modern-day vibrancy that make Chinatown a must-visit destination in Ho Chi Minh City.
Adventuring on the Water Bus
After exploring the vibrant streets of Chinatown, the tour takes an exhilarating turn as participants embark on a water bus adventure along the Saigon River.
Gliding across the serene waters, the group will witness the city’s skyline from a unique perspective. The water bus offers a refreshing respite from the bustling streets, allowing travelers to soak in the sights and sounds of the riverside.
As the tour progresses, the guide shares insights into the history and significance of the Saigon River, enhancing the overall experience.
This water-based segment adds a delightful and memorable element to the Saigon City and Chinatown exploration.
Here's a few more nearby tours and experiences we think you'll like.
- From HCM: Mekong Delta & Cai Rang Floating Market 2-Day Tour
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Discovery Tour
- Enjoy the Sunshine With Vung Tau Beach Private Day Tour
- Private Transfer From HO CHI MINH to MUINE
- HCM: War Remnants Museum & Independence Palace Walking Tour
- HCMC: English or German War History Tour: Tunnels & Museums
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?
There is no minimum age requirement specified for this tour. However, it mentions that infants must sit on laps, and that one child under 5 years is free, while a second child under 5 must purchase a ticket.
Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not mention any discounts for seniors or students. The pricing is a flat rate of $45 per person regardless of age or student status. Travelers should check with the tour operator for any potential discounts or special offers.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Include Additional Activities?
The tour can be customized to include additional activities, though there may be extra fees. Travelers should contact the tour operator to discuss any special requests or modifications they’d like to make to the standard itinerary.
How Long Is the Water Bus Ride and What Can We See?
The water bus ride typically lasts around 30-45 minutes and allows travelers to see the scenic waterways and riverside neighborhoods of Ho Chi Minh City. Passengers can observe local life along the river and get a unique perspective of the city.
Are There Any Dress Code or Other Requirements for the Tour?
The tour has no specific dress code, but participants should wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes. Travelers should also bring sun protection, as some outdoor activities are included. No other special requirements are mentioned.
Not for you? Here's more of our most recent tour reviews happening neaby
- Cu Chi Tunnels Half-day Tour| From Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam
- Explore Can Gio: Monkey Island Adventure
- Traditional Cooking Class With Market Tour in Ho Chi Minh
- Can Gio Mangrove Forest and Monkey Island Full Day Tour
- Cu Chi Tunnel Halfday – Must See in HCMC
- Airport Transfer From Hotel in Ho Chi Minh to Airport By 4 Seats Car
- Amazing Night With Saigon Skydeck and Local Beer Tasting
- Small Group To Mekong Delta 1 Day
- Ho Chi Minh: Afternoon Cu Chi Tunnels – Join Small Group
- 16 Best Vegetarian & Vegan Experiences In Ho Chi Minh City
- Mekong Delta Exploring Full Day Trip Review
- Private Vung Tau Beach
- Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnel Full Day Trip
- Cu Chi and Ben Duoc Tunnels – Ho Chi Minh City Full Day Tour
- Cu Chi Tunnels Day Trip (Morning and Afternoon)
Recap
This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience, blending Saigon’s vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and scenic river views. Travelers can explore the historic Notre-Dame Cathedral, bargain at Binh Tay Market, and enjoy a delightful Vietnamese lunch, all while gaining insights from an expert guide. The water bus adventure offers a unique perspective of the city’s dynamic skyline, making this a must-do excursion for anyone seeking to discover the heart of Saigon.