Tour snapshot
PGT-CTCC
1 day
Ho Chi Minh city
Day Trips In Ho Chi Minh City
Overview
Experience Vietnam’s Evolution Through History and Culture
Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s captivating blend of colonial charm and modern dynamism, interwoven with the Cu Chi Tunnels’ poignant wartime narrative. A day-long journey is offered, showcasing Vietnam’s past through iconic urban sights and the remarkable underground network reflecting unwavering national spirit. Historical understanding and cultural appreciation are thoughtfully provided, ensuring respectful engagement with Vietnam’s rich and multifaceted legacy. This meticulously planned tour promises an unforgettable experience
Tour Highlights
– Independence Palace – Explore this architectural marvel and witness where the Vietnam War officially ended
– Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office – Admire stunning French colonial landmarks showcasing Vietnam’s diverse cultural influences
– War Remnants Museum – Gain deeper understanding of the conflict through powerful exhibits and authentic artifacts
– Cu Chi Tunnels Network – Discover the ingenious underground complex that sheltered entire communities during wartime
– Authentic Wartime Cuisine – Sample traditional tea and cassava that sustained fighters during the conflict
Why Our Saigon & Cu Chi Full-Day Tour?
– Complete Historical Perspective: Experience both sides of Vietnam’s wartime story – from city landmarks to rural resistance – in a single comprehensive day.
– Cultural Insights: Our expert guides provide balanced context and nuanced understanding of Vietnam’s journey from colonialism through conflict to its vibrant present.
– Perfect Balance: This tour combines urban exploration with rural discovery, offering both architectural grandeur and historical authenticity.
– Intimate Experience: Our small group size ensures personalized attention and meaningful engagement with both historical sites and cultural contexts.
Timeline Itinerary
07:30 – 08:00 | Hotel pick-up in central district 1
08:30 – 11:30 | Saigon city tour (Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum)
11:30 – 12:30 | Lunch at local restaurant
12:30 – 14:00 | Scenic drive to Cu Chi Tunnels
14:00 – 16:30 | Explore Cu Chi Tunnels complex
16:30 – 18:00 | Return to Ho Chi Minh City
18:00 | Tour ends, hotel drop-off
Duration: Approximately 10.5 hours
Important Notes
Pickup Service: Available only for hotels/accommodations in central District 1 (excluding Đa Kao Ward and Tan Dinh Ward)
Pickup Time: Between 07:30 – 08:00 AM (please be ready in your hotel lobby)
– Exact time depends on your accommodation location
– For those staying outside our pickup zone, please meet at TNK Travel office (112 Tran Hung Dao Street, Ward Pham Ngu Lao, District 1) by 07:45 AM
Weather Considerations: This tour includes outdoor activities that are most enjoyable in favorable weather conditions
– Please note that tour itinerary and drop-off times may fluctuate due to traffic and weather conditions
– We may adjust activities slightly while ensuring all highlights are included
Physical Considerations:
– The tunnel exploration includes some crouching and crawling through narrow spaces
– Alternative viewing options are available for those with mobility concerns
– We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear
Responsible Tourism:
– Please follow your guide’s instructions regarding photography and respectful behavior at this historical site
– We operate with respect for the historical significance and cultural sensitivity of this location
Join us in practicing responsible tourism that preserves the cultural integrity and natural beauty of the Mekong Delta for future generations.
TNK Travel Group is committed to sustainable tourism practices that benefit local communities while providing travelers with authentic Vietnamese experiences.
Itinerary
Ho Chi Minh City and Cu Chi Tunnels Full-Day
Nearby, the Neo-Romanesque Notre Dame Cathedral stands as a striking example of French colonial influence. Its vibrant red brick façade provides a stunning contrast against the city's bustling streets. The cathedral's distinctive twin bell towers and serene interior offer a haven of tranquility amidst the urban energy.
A captivating blend of European and Vietnamese architectural styles is evident in the historic Central Post Office, a masterpiece designed by the renowned Gustave Eiffel. Inside, a sense of timelessness pervades as visitors admire the soaring arched ceiling and antique phone booths, evocative of a bygone era. This cultural landmark continues to serve as a fully functioning post office.
The morning culminates at the War Remnants Museum, where powerful exhibitions offer a poignant reflection on the profound impact of war. Through authentic artifacts, compelling photography, and deeply personal narratives, a deeper understanding of Vietnam's complex history is conveyed, illuminating the human cost of conflict.
After a delightful lunch savored at a carefully selected local restaurant, a journey through time commences with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. As one approaches this subterranean labyrinth, the modern world subtly recedes, yielding to the whispers of a turbulent past.
Descend into this intricate network of tunnels, once home to an entire underground city. Narrow passageways are navigated, leading to meticulously recreated scenes of wartime life – from kitchens filled with the aromas of period cuisine to command centers where strategic whispers once echoed. The ingenuity of these structures, serving as living quarters, hospitals, and meeting places during years of conflict, is truly remarkable.
The guide's compelling stories breathe life into the past, transporting visitors back in time. The ingenuity of hidden trapdoors and the harsh realities of underground life are revealed. The traditional tea and cassava offered provide a tangible connection to the resilience of those who once inhabited these tunnels.
An optional activity for the adventurous includes a visit to a nearby shooting range, offering the chance to fire historical firearms (additional cost applies).
As the day concludes, a return to Ho Chi Minh City is made, carrying with it a profound appreciation for the city's remarkable transformation and the unwavering spirit of its people. This immersive experience provides unparalleled insights into Vietnam's journey from colonial rule and conflict to its current status as a vibrant and thriving nation.
Price & Bookings
What’s Included
- Transportation in air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide
- All entrance fees
- Local lunch
What’s Not Included
- Additional food and beverages, tax
- Optional shooting range fees
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Gratuities (though appreciated by local service providers)
Reservations
Reviews
Share your thoughts with other customers.
