Saigon culture & history

Duration

1 day

Tour Type

City Break

Group Size

10 Persons

Tour Guide

1 English-speaking tour guide

Southern Vietnam

Saigon culture & history

Saigon, the former name of Ho Chi Minh City and still often called Saigon, has a long history of immigration since its establishment in the 17th century. Initially a tiny fishing village, the city has grown to over 2,000 square kilometres with a population of about 7 to 9 million individuals (however, many residents still need to be registered). It is widely recognised as a centre of commerce and is Vietnam’s most thrilling city due to its bustling atmosphere. Despite its modern high-rises, the city has a rich culture and a complex history. Visitors are drawn to the city’s pagodas, museums, public buildings, parks, and boulevards. Let’s explore the more genuine and historical side of Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings beyond the contemporary buildings.

Highlight

Discover the captivating daily life of Cho Lon, a district that seamlessly blends vibrant modern living with echoes of old Saigon;
Immerse yourself in the knowledge of traditional Vietnamese herbal medicine within an ancient architectural setting;
Experience the essence of the city’s history and culture through its typical works;
Indulge in Saigon cuisine tucked away in a quaint alley and embrace the dynamic yet harmonious lifestyle of the locals.

Destination	Sai Gon/Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Included	Transfer service in an air-conditioned vehicle with an experienced driver Services of an English-speaking guide / French-speaking guide Meals as indicated in the itinerary All entrance fee
Excluded	Hotel in Ho Chi Minh city Beverages, gratuities, and personal expenses. Camera fees (if any) Insurance VAT and other taxes Surcharge in peak season (Christmas & New Year)
Travel by car

Price

Price per person based on private group of

1 pax

2 pax

3 pax

4 pax

5 pax

6 pax

VND 3,346,000

(US $ 134)

VND 1,995,000

(US $ 80)

VND 1,800,000

(US $ 72)

VND 1,525,000

(US $ 61)

VND 1,420,000

(US $ 57)

VND 1,300,000

(US $ 52)

Details

Experience the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh with a full day of orientation, starting at 8:30 AM. You will be picked up from your hotel and taken to Cho Lon, the city's most vibrant district that still retains its connection to the past. The day will begin with a visit to the impressive Thien Hau pagoda, followed by a stroll around the lively street life. You will pass a mix of architecture, from temples and shophouses to modernist classics.

Next, you will be visiting the Museum of Vietnamese Traditional Medicine, which provides a unique glimpse into the world of Vietnamese herbal medicine. Not only will you be captivated by the priceless artefacts on display, but also the architectural style that draws inspiration from ancient Vietnamese houses. This museum offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Saigon, allowing you to immerse yourself in the rich history of traditional medicine.

In the afternoon, you will spend time at the Reunification Palace, followed by a stroll to the major sights of colonial Ho Chi Minh City: the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, the Central Post Office, and the Opera House. You will then walk to the Ho Con Rua area for a cup of Saigon coffee and enjoy the unique way of drinking mobile coffee by the Saigon people. Here, you can chat with Saigon students who often gather before or after their lectures.

The trip will end at your hotel before 5:00 PM to avoid rush hour. With this full-day orientation, you will experience the best of Ho Chi Minh City, from its vibrant district to its historic sites and colonial architecture.