Exploring Vietnam’s past has never been so immersive. This full-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City takes visitors on a journey through key historical sites, from the grand Independence Palace to the sobering War Remnants Museum. But the true highlight lies underground, where the intricate Cu Chi Tunnels offer a firsthand glimpse into wartime life. Whether crawling through the narrow passageways or sampling traditional cuisine, this experience promises an unforgettable day of cultural discovery.
Key Points
- A full-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City that combines a city tour and a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, priced at £33.20 per person.
- The tour includes morning visits to landmarks like the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Central Post Office, showcasing French colonial architecture.
- Approximately 100 minutes spent at the War Remnants Museum, providing a Vietnamese perspective on the Vietnam War and its impact.
- Afternoon exploration of the 220-kilometer underground Cu Chi Tunnel system, with opportunities to crawl through narrow passages and learn about their historical significance.
- Flexible booking options, live guides in multiple languages, and the choice of private or small group tours to suit individual preferences.
Tour Overview
This full-day tour from Ho Chi Minh City provides an immersive experience for £33.20 per person.
The flexible booking allows you to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
With various start times available, the tour lasts 1 day and is led by live guides in English, Vietnamese, and Chinese.
Opt for private or small group tours to suit your preferences.
The tour includes pickup, entrance fees, lunch, and mineral water, offering a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the city’s top sights and the famous Cu Chi Tunnels.
Looking for more options in Mui Ne? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Itinerary Highlights
The morning portion of the tour begins with a pick-up at 243 De Tham Street or the customer’s hotel.
Guests will visit the iconic Independence Palace, the former residence of the President of South Vietnam.
A visit to the iconic Independence Palace, the former residence of the President of South Vietnam.
Next, they’ll explore the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, iconic examples of French colonial architecture.
The tour then heads to the War Remnants Museum, where they’ll spend approximately 100 minutes learning about the Vietnam War through the museum’s exhibits.
After lunch, the group departs for the Cu Chi Tunnels, a 220-kilometer underground tunnel system with a strategic role in the war.
Morning Sights
The tour begins with a visit to the Independence Palace, the former residence of the President of South Vietnam. Guests will explore the iconic building, which now serves as a museum, and learn about its historical significance. Next, the group will head to the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, two architectural landmarks showcasing the French colonial influence in the city.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|————|————|
| Independence Palace | – Former residence of the President of South Vietnam
– Now a museum showcasing historical significance |
| Notre Dame Cathedral | – Iconic French colonial architecture
– Impressive neo-Romanesque design |
| Central Post Office | – Stunning French colonial building
– Serves as a functional post office |
Following these morning sights, the tour will move on to the War Remnants Museum, where visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War’s impact.
The War Remnants Museum
Visitors spend approximately 100 minutes exploring the thought-provoking exhibits at the War Remnants Museum.
The museum’s extensive collection provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. Displays include graphic war photography, military equipment, and victims’ personal belongings.
Visitors learn about the devastating Agent Orange impact and the plight of former prisoners of war. While the subject matter is heavy, the museum offers an insightful and emotional experience, encouraging greater understanding of this complex conflict.
More Great Tours NearbyAfternoon at Cu Chi Tunnels
After exploring the sobering exhibits at the War Remnants Museum, visitors depart for the Cu Chi Tunnels, located about 1.5 hours outside of Ho Chi Minh City.
The tour delves into the 220-kilometer underground tunnel system that played a strategic role in the Vietnam War. Visitors can crawl through the narrow passages, learn about the tunnels’ history, and even try wartime cuisine.
An optional activity allows guests to fire an AK-47 rifle, providing a glimpse into the military experience. The tour of the Cu Chi Tunnels spans approximately 3 hours before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Optional Activities
Two optional activities allow guests to further enjoy the wartime experience at the Cu Chi Tunnels.
Travelers can try traditional wartime food, including the staple of boiled cassava roots, which helped sustain Viet Cong fighters.
Boiled cassava roots, a wartime staple that sustained Viet Cong fighters, offer travelers a taste of the past.
For the bolder adventurers, they can also shoot an AK-47 rifle at a nearby firing range. This simulated combat experience provides a visceral connection to the warfare that once raged in the tunnels.
Both activities are available for an additional fee and offer a unique chance to step into the shoes of those who lived through the Vietnam War.
Transportation and Logistics
To ensure a seamless tour experience, an air-conditioned bus is provided for transportation throughout the day.
The tour includes:
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Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in District 1, ensuring a convenient start and end to your adventure.
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A comfortable journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, located approximately 1.5 hours outside of Ho Chi Minh City.
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Scheduled breaks, photo stops, and sightseeing opportunities along the way, allowing you to fully learn about the day’s activities.
The itinerary is subject to change, but rest assured that the logistics are carefully planned to provide you with a memorable and stress-free tour.
Inclusions and Customer Feedback
The tour package includes several key inclusions to enhance the overall experience.
Entrance fees to all the major attractions are covered, ensuring seamless access. Lunch at a local restaurant provides an authentic culinary experience. Mineral water is provided on the bus, keeping travelers hydrated throughout the day.
The sightseeing itinerary is comprehensive, covering iconic landmarks like the Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum.
Based on customer feedback, the tour receives an impressive 5/5 rating, with positive remarks highlighting the knowledgeable guide and unexpected highlights, including the lunch.
The full-day experience lasts from 7:20 AM to 7:30 PM.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour to Fit My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your interests. The tour provider offers flexible booking options, including private or small group tours, allowing you to tailor the itinerary and experience to your preferences.
Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Tunnel Visit?
No special equipment is needed for the Cu Chi Tunnel visit. The tour provides flashlights and there’s no need for special clothing or gear. Just wear comfortable walking shoes and bring sun protection if desired.
What Kind of Food Is Served for Lunch?
The tour includes lunch at a local restaurant. While the specific menu is not provided, it’s likely to feature traditional Vietnamese cuisine to give participants a taste of the local flavors during the day’s activities.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
The tour does not mention any discounts for students or seniors. The price of £33.20 per person appears to be the standard rate for all participants, regardless of age or student status.
What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?
The tour has a casual dress code. Comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, and sun protection are recommended, as you will be spending time outdoors exploring historical sites and the Cu Chi Tunnels.
The Sum Up
The "From HCM: City Tour & Cu Chi Tunnel Full Day Tour" offers an immersive exploration of Vietnam’s history. Participants will discover iconic landmarks, explore the Cu Chi Tunnels, and engage in optional activities, creating a memorable cultural experience. With convenient transportation and positive customer feedback, this tour provides a comprehensive and enriching day of sightseeing and discovery in Vietnam.
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