15 Must-Try Tours & Experiences In Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam stands out as a destination packed with contrasts: bustling cities, historic sites, lush waterways, and poignant war memories. Its rich tapestry of experiences makes it ideal for those who want authentic, hands-on encounters. Whether you’re interested in exploring underground tunnels, cruising the Mekong Delta, or discovering Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant streets, this region offers a variety of tour options that cater to different interests and schedules. For instance, the Private Shore Excursion: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City from Phu My Port combines deep history with personalized service, making it perfect for history buffs and first-time visitors alike.

Below, you’ll find a curated list of the 15 best tours and experiences in Southern Vietnam, showcasing everything from cultural explorations to scenic river cruises. Each offers a unique way to see and understand this lively corner of Southeast Asia.

1. Private Shore Excursion: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City from Phu My Port

At number 1, this private shore excursion provides an immersive look into Vietnam’s wartime past. The tour includes a visit to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, a sprawling underground network where Viet Cong soldiers lived and fought. Your guide will share stories of resilience and survival—ideal for history enthusiasts. The tour also features a stop at Ben Thanh Market for souvenirs and local snacks, with optional visits to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Independence Palace if time allows. With a perfect 5-star rating from 42 reviews, this tour offers personalized service, including lunch and round-trip transport. Guests say Liam, the guide, made their experience memorable with his storytelling and local insights.

Bottom Line: Perfect for history lovers who want a private, flexible day combining battlefield history with city sights.

2. PHU MY SHORE EXCURSION: Car Services + LOCAL TOUR GUIDE in Saigon

For around $119, the Phu My Shore Excursion offers a full-day, hassle-free way to see Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions. This private tour includes all entry fees, lunch at a local restaurant, and a dedicated guide who makes the experience personal. Highlights include the Independence Palace, the historic Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral, with some guests adding visits to the Opera House. The guide, Khang, is praised for his knowledge and friendly approach, making even long drives feel engaging. This tour suits travelers short on time but eager to cover the city’s essentials comfortably.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a comprehensive, private overview of Saigon in one relaxing day, with no worries about logistics.

3. Private Ho Minh City Sightseeing Shore Excursion From Phu My Port

Number 3 offers a customizable full-day private tour exploring both the well-known and lesser-known sites of Ho Chi Minh City. This includes visits to Notre Dame, Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum, with flexible stops to suit your pace. It’s perfect if you want a personalized experience, with the opportunity to explore specific interests like local markets or historic landmarks. Rated 5 stars from 52 reviews, guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, especially given the long drive from the port. The tour balances major sights with authentic local experiences, making it a favorite for first-time visitors.

Bottom Line: A flexible, well-rounded way to see Saigon’s highlights with expert guidance and tailored stops.

4. Phu My Port to Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion Private Tour

This all-day private tour takes the hassle out of visiting Ho Chi Minh City, focusing on top landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. The tour includes a delicious Vietnamese lunch and comfortable transportation, making it perfect for travelers who value convenience. Guides are known for their friendly approach and deep local knowledge, ensuring a smooth experience even with limited time. Guests comment that the tour was well-organized, with many appreciating the flexibility to include additional sights if time permits.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable introduction to Saigon with minimal planning.

5. Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon City Tour from Phu My Port

Number 5 combines the historic Cu Chi Tunnels with a comprehensive city tour. Starting at the tunnels, you’ll learn about Vietnam’s underground war strategy, with guides sharing insights into this formidable network. Afterwards, explore Saigon’s Notre Dame, Post Office, and War Remnants Museum. The tour has received high praise, with guests noting guide Vinh’s extensive knowledge and the opportunity to see both battlefield and city highlights in one day. At $139, it offers a good balance of history, culture, and sightseeing.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a full-day experience of Vietnam’s wartime history combined with urban exploration.

6. Best of Saigon Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Cruise Port

This semi-private tour covers many of Saigon’s signature sights, including War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and Thien Hay Temple. It offers a concise, well-paced itinerary with a focus on understanding the city’s complex past and lively present. The inclusion of a Vietnamese lunch makes it a full experience, ideal for travelers with limited time but wanting to maximize their visit. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guides and the flexible, customizable approach.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers seeking a rundown within a shorter timeframe, with the comfort of private transportation.

7. Private Mekong Delta Tour – My Tho – Ben Tre from Cruise Port

Number 7 offers an immersive Mekong Delta experience, focusing on waterfront scenery, local markets, and traditional crafts. The tour includes a longtail boat ride through the canals, with stops at Vinh Trang Temple and local villages. Guests love the personalized service and the chance to see the agricultural heart of Vietnam. The tour lasts from 7 to 15 hours, making it a full-day adventure suited for those eager to explore beyond the city. The guide’s knowledge and the scenic boat rides earn high praise.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want to see Vietnam’s lush delta landscape and experience rural life firsthand.

8. Saigon in a day from Phu My Cruise Harbor

This full-day private tour is designed for cruise passengers, focusing on the city’s top sights like Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Notre Dame. It includes a private driver, flexible stops, and a focus on personalization. Guests report the tour was well-paced and that the guides were helpful and knowledgeable. It’s a solid choice if you want to see as much as possible without feeling rushed, especially for those with tight schedules.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want a comprehensive city overview in a single day with minimal hassle.

9. Vung Tau City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

Number 9 features a full-day trip to Vung Tau, with visits to beaches like Front Beach, the White Palace, and the Thich Ca Phat Dai temple. It’s perfect for those wanting a change of scenery, combining seaside relaxation with cultural sights. Travelers enjoy the flexible pace and the included local lunch. The guide helps you explore at your own speed, making it suitable for families or travelers who prefer a less hectic day.

Bottom Line: A good choice for those seeking a mix of beach time and cultural exploration within a single day.

10. Phu My Port: Bestseller Top Site Saigon Trip/Cu Chi Tunnel

This small-group tour offers a carefully curated experience, combining Saigon highlights with a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. It emphasizes comfort and a personalized approach, with a focus on efficient sightseeing. Many reviewers appreciate the guide’s knowledge and the smooth organization. For $159, it balances cost with a well-rounded experience tailored to smaller groups.

Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers wanting a focused, intimate tour with expert guiding.

11. Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion Private Tour From Phu My Port

Offering a full-day private experience, this tour covers major sights like the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Saigon Central Post Office. The guide, Tony, is highly praised for his knowledge and friendly manner. The tour includes flexible options like visiting the Roof of the helicopter evacuation site, which adds an authentic touch. It’s ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience with no rushing.

Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a personalized, in-depth exploration of Saigon’s key landmarks.

12. Private Saigon city from Phu My Port

Rated 5 stars from three reviews, this private city tour emphasizes comfort and flexibility, taking you from the French colonial buildings to local markets and historical museums. It’s best suited for travelers who prefer a relaxed pace and personal attention. Highlights include the Jade Emperor Pagoda and optional visits to hard-to-see sites like the roof where the helicopter took off during the evacuation.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, relaxed day exploring Saigon’s cultural and historical highlights.

13. Cultural Bike Tour in Nam Cat Tien

For just $15.73, this bike tour takes you through Vietnam’s countryside, including local markets, temples, rice fields, and gardens. It’s a low-cost way to experience everyday rural life and learn about Vietnamese culture firsthand. The guide, Peter, shares insights into local life, making it a genuine experience. It’s perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration and want an authentic look at Vietnam beyond the cities.

Bottom Line: Best suited for active travelers wanting a short, immersive cultural experience with a focus on rural Vietnam.

14. Ho Chi Minh City Historical Discovery Pick Up At Phu My Port

This premium tour offers a comprehensive, guided exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s top landmarks, including Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Notre Dame. The focus is on history and culture, with a detailed narrative from knowledgeable guides. Guests rate it highly for its seamless organization and rich content. It’s ideal for travelers who want a deep dive into the city’s past in a single day.

Bottom Line: A great pick for those wanting an all-encompassing, historically focused tour with expert guidance.

15. Ho Chi Minh Shore Excursion: Private Historic Saigon & Food Tour

Number 15 combines city sightseeing with a culinary experience. Your guide takes you through major landmarks and then on a food tour, sampling authentic Vietnamese dishes. The tour includes lunch and all entrance fees, making it a convenient all-in-one experience. Guests especially enjoy the personal attention and the chance to taste local flavors, with recommendations for iconic spots and hidden favorites. It’s perfect for foodies and those who want to pair history with gastronomy.

Bottom Line: Excellent for travelers who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and authentic local cuisine in one day.

How to Choose the Best Tour in Southern Vietnam

When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, time constraints, interests, and fitness level. For history lovers, the Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon City Tour or the Ho Chi Minh City Historical Discovery are top picks. If you prefer a relaxed, private experience, tours like the Private Shore Excursion: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City or the Private Mekong Delta Tour offer personalized attention and flexibility.

For those looking to maximize time with a full-day city tour, the Saigon in a day from Phu My Cruise Harbor is especially convenient. Budget travelers might prefer the Cultural Bike Tour in Nam Cat Tien, while foodies will love the Private Historic Saigon & Food Tour.

Booking early is wise, especially during peak season (November to April). Consider your interests—whether it’s history, cuisine, or scenic views—and pick a tour that aligns with your travel style and schedule.

To sum it up, Southern Vietnam offers a great variety of tours that can suit every type of traveler—be it the history enthusiast, the adventurous foodie, or the cultural explorer. From carefully curated private safaris to immersive city walks, the options are rich and rewarding. Be sure to book your preferred experience early, and prepare for a memorable journey through this vibrant region.