Private Saigon Shore Excursion and Real Local Tour
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Private Saigon Shore Excursion and Real Local Tour

Active
(3 reviews)
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

7:30Am-8:00Am: Pick up from the Cruise port and start your Shore Excursions tour then drived around 45 minutes to 1 hours to Saigon then we will stop at local area:
9:30AM: Flowers market
10:30Am: Another half hours drive to China Town with wholes sales market and Thien Hau Temple - the most charming and unit ancient temple in Saigon.
- Walking through a non-tourism wet market in another corner of the city.
12:30Pm: We will come to Reunification Palace (Independence Palace), where witnessed the event that marked the end of Vietnam War.
1:30Pm: Enjoy traditional Vietnamese lunch at a restaurant
2:00Pm: You will stop at all symbolic destinations of the City:
- Saigon City Hall
- The Central Post Office
- The Notre Dame Cathedral
- Saigon Opera House
2:30Pm: Continue to War Museum
3:30Pm: Drive back to Cruise Port

Available options

Private Saigon Shore Excursion and Real Local Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Lunch
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide
Private transportation with A/C- Bottled drinking water on the car or bus - All entrance fee

Detailed itinerary

1

Established in the year 1987, the market has flourished to become the largest wholesale flower market in Saigon today. It proudly bears the name of a courageous young woman, aged merely 23, who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Vietnam War.
Ho Thi Ky flower market, due to the huge demand for flowers in Vietnam, there is a huge variety of flowers displayed everywhere in the market. There are also flower decoration goods like baskets, vases, painted flowers, flower standee… with an affordable price since this is the largest wholesale market of flowers. You can find any kind of goods here if it’s related to flowers.

2
Stop 2

Thien Hau temple is one of the oldest pagodas in Saigon, bearing the style of the ancient Chinese pagoda, from the architecture to construction materials.
The pagoda was built in 1760 by the Chinese community who has donated money to build the temple of lady Thien Hau to show their gratitude for the blessings. After 256 years of existence, Thien Hau pagoda still retains the unique architecture despite several restoration. Thien Hau temple is a spiritual home that has a great influence on the cultural life of the Chinese community living in HCM city.
The pagoda has hundreds of antiques dating from the late 18th century to the early 20th century, including wooden statues, stone statues, stone stele, bronze statues, parallel sentences, bas reliefs..

3

Chinatown also known as Saigon Cho Lon, located on the west bank of Saigon River, Cho Lon (Big Market) consists of the western half of District 5 as well as several adjoining neighborhoods in District 11. At the center of Cho Lon stands Binh Tay Market as the most important commercial one there. For decades, it has been long inhabited by Chinese people, called Chinatown. Cho Lon has become an enormous trading market and an appealing destination for most of the tourists once coming to Ho Chi Minh City.
Though Cho Lon is not famous for the variety of goods compared to other big markets in Ho Chi Minh City, it is known as a wholesale market as with the unique and qualified products that you can hardly deny. Popular items range from Vietnamese silk to lacquerware and hand-embroidered clothes to skillfully woven textiles. If you love shopping, you should visit it once.

4
Stop 4

The Independence Palace, or the Reunification Palace, was built on the site of the former Norodom Palace with an area of 120,000 square meters. Standing at the end of Le Duan Street crossing Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, it symbolizes the traditional philosophy, oriental rituals and personalities of Vietnam nation in the harmonious combination with modern architectures.
With a glamorous design with hundreds of rooms equipped with luxurious furnishings and decorations together with the tremendous gorgeous external space, The Independence Palace or the Reunification Palace is a perfect visiting place for travelers to take away from the burning sunlight of Saigon’s weather, enjoy the fresh cool air and explore one of the most amazing structure in Ho Chi Minh City.

5
Stop 5

The War Remnants Museum, also known as the Museum of American War Crimes, until now, has stored more than 20,000 documents, exhibits and films, in which more than 1,500 documents, artifacts, films have been applied to introduce in eight thematic exhibition frequently. In 35 years, the War Museum Ho Chi Minh has welcomed over 15 million visitors at home and abroad.
Visiting the War Remnants Museum Ho Chi Minh, you will feel shivery because it offers a shocking reminder of the long and brutal Vietnam War, with many graphic photographs and American military equipment on display, including a helicopter with rocket launchers, a tank, a fighter plane, a single-seater attack aircraft and a 6,800kg conventional bomb.

6
Stop 6

Saigon Opera House or also known as the Municipal Theatre Saigon, is located in Lam Son Square at the beginning of Le Loi Street, a popular shopping street that runs from the park across the road through to Ben Thanh market. Standing magnificently at the heart of Ho Chi Minh City where it crosses out many important routes, the building is outstanding as one the impressive sight in Saigon both night and day

7

Ho Chi Minh City Hall is closed to the public as it’s an official Vietnam government building. It is beautiful French Colonial architecture and sunny cream-and-yellow hue, make it a tourist favorite and a symbol of Saigon, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The building stands at one end of Nguyen Hue Boulevard on Le Thanh Ton Street, a brisk walk away from Dong Khoi Street.
Ho Chi Minh City Hall officially known as the People’s Committee Building. It’s French colonial city hall built in the early 1900s. Its French builders drew inspiration from town halls in Europe. The building was known as the City Hall of Saigon before 1975, now the headquarters of the People’s Committee.

8
Stop 8

Notre Dame Cathedral Saigon is one of the most unique architectures in Ho Chi Minh city, looking from the outside, you can see the bright red color of the refined brick wall, which has not been covered with moss for hundred years. These bricks were made in Guichard Carvin, Marseille St André France and were directly imported from France. There are 56 colored glass plates on the wall to portray characters and events in the Holy Bible. These glass plates reflect the light and create a magnificent beauty. There are 31 air holes on the wall in flower shape, looks like a carpet of flowers. There are 25 windows assembled by multi-color glasses.

9
Stop 9

Saigon Central Post Office, in Vietnamese we call Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn, is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City – at number 2, Paris Commune Street, District 1 and nearly opposite Saigon Notre Dame Basilica, the city’s grand cathedral. Built around 1886 – 1891 when Vietnam was part of French Indochina and based on the design of Gustave Eiffel, a famous French architect, together with his collaborator Alfred Foulhoux, it is the largest post office in Vietnam and a must-go tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City.

10
Stop 10

Ben Thanh Market is a large central market, located right in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Built in 1870 by the French, Ben Thanh market was initially called Les Halles Centrales before being renamed to Ben Thanh in 1912. From a wet market created by street vendors by the early 17th century, Ben Thanh market has experienced many ups and downs throughout its history, it is the oldest surviving market and one of symbols of Saigon city, which is absolutely a must-see for any visitor traveling to this 300-year-old city Ho Chi Minh.

What's not included

- Beverage or drinks on meal (if any) - Personal expenses

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 4.7
3 reviews
5★
2
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.

Top Attractions

War Remnants Museum

This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Cu Chi Tunnels

A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.

Historical Half-day tour Moderate (tour prices vary)

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Ben Thanh Market

One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.

Market 1-2 hours Budget to Moderate

Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck

Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.

Observation Deck 1 hour Moderate

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pho

A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.

Dinner Vegetarian options available

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.

Lunch Vegetarian options available

Com Tam

Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.

Lunch Vegetarian options available

Goi Cuon

Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.

Appetizer Vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels Boat tours in the Mekong Delta Beach relaxation in Vung Tau Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest Spa and wellness treatments Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum Exploring local markets and temples

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.

25-35°C 77-95°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Vietnamese
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
  • • Bargain for better prices at markets

Getting there

By air
  • Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train

Saigon Railway Station

By bus

Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

District 1 District 3 District 5 (Chinatown) District 7 Phu Nhuan District

Day trips

Mekong Delta
130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day

The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.

Cu Chi Tunnels
60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day

A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.

Vung Tau
120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day

A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.

Festivals

Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year) Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year) Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)

Pro tips

  • Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
  • Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
  • Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
  • Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 10-90
1
Childs
Age 2-9
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 12
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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