Ho Chi Minh City Tour Half Day

Captivating the essence of Ho Chi Minh City, this half-day tour unveils the city's iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere, offering an engaging and insightful journey.

Exploring the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh can be an enriching experience. This half-day tour introduces visitors to the city’s iconic landmarks, immersing them in the bustling atmosphere of the Ben Thanh Market and the historical significance of the Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum. With free pickup available, the tour offers a convenient way to uncover the essence of this dynamic destination. For those seeking an insider’s perspective on Ho Chi Minh City, this tour promises an engaging and insightful journey.

Key Points

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  • A 4-hour group tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions, including Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, and the War Remnants Museum.
  • Tour cost is $28.26 per person, with free pickup available in Districts 1, 3, and 4, and an additional charge for areas outside these districts.
  • The tour has a maximum group size of 11 participants and allows for browsing local wares, admiring historic architecture, and learning about the Vietnam War’s impact.
  • Highlights include the bustling Ben Thanh Market, the neo-Romanesque Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, and the thought-provoking exhibits at the War Remnants Museum.
  • Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance, making it a flexible option for exploring the key sights of Ho Chi Minh City.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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What does the Ho Chi Minh City Tour entail?

It’s a 4-hour tour with a maximum group size of 11 participants. The guided tour is conducted in English and costs $28.26 per person.

Free pickup is available in Districts 1, 3, and 4, with an additional charge of 150,000 VND outside these areas. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes a visit to historical landmarks like Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, Saigon Central Post Office, Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Jade Emperor Pagoda.

Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s iconic landmarks, including Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, and Reunification Palace.

Lunch at a local restaurant and transportation by private air-conditioned vehicle are also provided.

Key Attractions

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The tour visits several notable landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights include the historic Ben Thanh Market, a 1914 landmark selling local wares.

Visitors can marvel at the neo-Romanesque architecture of the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica and the grand Saigon Central Post Office designed by Alfred Foulhoux.

The tour also stops at the Reunification Palace, a historic site with lush grounds and significant architectural features.

For history enthusiasts, the War Remnants Museum provides an in-depth look at the Vietnam War.

Finally, the Jade Emperor Pagoda, built in 1909, offers insights into local religious practices.

Ben Thanh Market

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Ben Thanh Market is a historical landmark that has stood in Ho Chi Minh City since 1914.

It’s a bustling hub offering an array of goods, from kitchenware and souvenirs to clothing and local specialties. Visitors can browse the stalls, haggle with vendors, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

The market is a popular destination for both locals and travelers, providing a glimpse into the city’s thriving commercial activities.

Whether you’re seeking unique finds or simply soaking up the lively ambiance, Ben Thanh Market is an essential stop on any Ho Chi Minh City tour.

Saigon Notre Dame Basilica

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Constructed in the 1870s by French architect J. Bourad, the Saigon Notre Dame Basilica is a prominent landmark in Ho Chi Minh City.

This neo-Romanesque cathedral is known for its striking red brick facade and iconic bell towers. It’s a popular destination for wedding photography, drawing visitors from around the world.

Key features of the Basilica include:

  • Ornate bell towers reaching 58 meters high

  • Stained glass windows depicting Catholic imagery

  • Imposing interior with seating for over 1,000 worshippers

  • Statue of the Virgin Mary in the front courtyard

  • Ongoing religious services and cultural events

More Great Tours Nearby

Saigon Central Post Office

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Designed by Alfred Foulhoux, the Saigon Central Post Office stands as an architectural masterpiece constructed in 1891.

Its neo-Baroque design features high ceilings, arched windows, and a clock tower that’s a prominent landmark.

Inside, visitors can admire the ornate tile work, wooden counters, and historic postal equipment. It remains a functional post office, allowing travelers to experience the building’s history firsthand.

The post office’s grand scale and colonial-era elegance make it a popular photo spot, complementing the nearby Notre Dame Cathedral.

It’s an essential stop on any tour of Ho Chi Minh City’s historic landmarks.

Reunification Palace

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The Reunification Palace stands as a significant landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, highlighting Vietnam’s tumultuous history.

The palace, formerly known as the Presidential Palace, was the site of the last conflict during the Vietnam War in 1975.

Visitors can explore:

  • The grand halls and staircases that reflect French colonial architecture.

  • The underground network of war rooms and communications centers.

  • The helipad on the roof, a remnant of the chaotic evacuation.

  • The preserved 1960s-era furnishings and vintage cars on display.

  • The lush gardens and tranquil courtyards that offer a respite from the bustling city.

War Remnants Museum

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The War Remnants Museum stands as a poignant testament to the Vietnam War’s devastating impact. Visitors are confronted with harrowing displays of military equipment, photographs, and personal artifacts that evoke the war’s brutality. The museum’s exhibits are organized into three main sections:

| Sections | Focus |

| — | — |

| Vestiges of War | Showcases deformed fetuses and Agent Orange victims |

| Historical Truths | Documents American war crimes and atrocities |

| International Condemnation | Highlights global opposition to the war |

The museum’s powerful narrative captures the immense human suffering caused by the conflict, leaving a lasting impression on all who visit.

Jade Emperor Pagoda

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Nestled within Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling streets, the Jade Emperor Pagoda stands as a serene oasis of cultural and religious significance.

Nestled within Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling streets, the Jade Emperor Pagoda stands as a serene oasis of cultural and religious significance.

Constructed in 1909 by the local Chinese community, this temple honors the Jade Emperor, a revered Taoist deity.

Visitors can admire:

  • Intricate woodcarvings and ornate statues depicting deities and mythological figures

  • Serene courtyards and tranquil ponds filled with koi fish

  • Burning incense and the chanting of prayers by devoted worshippers

  • Unique architectural features blending Vietnamese and Chinese design elements

  • The opportunity to participate in traditional rituals and make offerings.

Since You Asked

Can I Request a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, you can request a private tour instead of a group tour. Many tour operators offer private tours for an additional fee, allowing you to have a more personalized and flexible experience.

Do You Provide Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?

Yes, the tour company offers a 10% discount for students and seniors with valid ID. The discounted price per person for these groups starts from $25.43. Booking must be made in advance to receive the discount.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Families?

The tour is suitable for children and families, with a limited group size and child-friendly activities. The itinerary includes historical sites and cultural attractions that can engage all ages. Discounts may be available for children.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Include Other Attractions?

The tour’s itinerary can be customized to include other attractions upon request. Customers can work with the tour operator to adjust the itinerary to meet their specific interests and preferences within the overall tour duration.

How Do I Get a Refund if I Need to Cancel the Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. To receive a full refund, customers can cancel their reservation through the booking platform or contact the tour operator directly before the cutoff time.

The Sum Up

This half-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City‘s iconic landmarks offers an immersive experience for just $28.26 per person. From the bustling Ben Thanh Market to the historical Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, the tour provides a comprehensive glimpse into the city’s vibrant culture and history. With free pickup available in select districts, this 4-hour adventure is a convenient and affordable way to explore the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City.

You can check availability for your dates here: