Essential Saigon Free Walking Tour: All Must-see

Our journey begins at 9 A.M./4 P.M. from the Vietravel headquarters. At this location, our guide will provide you with essential information regarding the walking tour. You will also have the opportunity to refill your water before we depart.

Our initial destination is Turtle Lake, an unusual edifice enveloped in enigma. This intriguing architectural wonder offers more than what is apparent. Its eight-sided form, a skillful combination of yin and yang, murmurs age-old truths of Feng Shui.

The Independence Palace, often referred to as the Reunification Palace, is one of the most recognised historical sites in Ho Chi Minh City. Situated in the city's center, it formerly functioned as the presidential residence and office of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The structure we see today was created by the Vietnamese architect Ngô Viết Thụ and finished in 1966, reflecting a distinct mix of modernist design and Eastern philosophy. It gained international attention on April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank broke through its gates, marking the fall of Saigon and the formal conclusion of the Vietnam War. Currently, the palace operates as a museum, maintaining the rooms, war command center, and original decor from that period. Visiting the Independence Palace provides a deep dive into Vietnam’s contemporary history and serves as a poignant reminder of the nation's path toward reunification and peace.

Proceed to the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a stunning architectural marvel constructed by the French. It is considered a replica of the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris. More than a hundred years old, this cathedral serves as a symbol of Saigon and possesses great cultural importance for the local residents.

Afterwards, we will stroll down Pham Ngoc Thach Street towards the Central Post Office. This is the spot where Eastern and Western influences converge in a beautiful blend of concepts and customs. Immerse yourself in the history of letters and telegrams, each contributing to the vibrant cultural fabric of Saigon. Here, we’ll give you a free postcard — feel free to write a few words to yourself, your family, or friends and send it home. It’s a simple but special way to remember your time in Saigon and this iconic post office, a place full of history and charm.

The Saigon Opera House calls from across the street. Once a gathering place for the elite, it reflects Saigon’s evolution into the "Pearl of the Far East."

The People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City is situated in a magnificent colonial-style building on Lê Thánh Tôn Street in District 1, functioning as the city's executive government body. This structure was originally built in the early 1900s as the Hôtel de Ville (City Hall) during the French colonial period and is celebrated for its classic French architecture, intricate façade, and notable clock tower. While it is not accessible to the public, it stands as a significant emblem of the city's governance and is a favored location for photographs, especially at night when it is stunningly lit up. The Committee is responsible for executing policies, urban planning, and public services throughout the city, playing a vital role in the growth and administration of Vietnam’s largest and most vibrant metropolis.

Tucked away on bustling Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the Café Apartment is one of Saigon’s most charming hidden gems. Once an old French-era apartment block, this unique building has been transformed into a vertical maze of creativity, now home to a variety of indie coffee shops, boutique stores, and cozy co-working spaces. Each unit has its own character — from minimalist espresso bars to vintage-style cafés with balconies overlooking the city.

Lastly, our expedition takes us to Bach Dang Quay Park, a tranquil stretch by the Saigon River that has silently observed the city’s transformation over the centuries. Once a hub for grand arrivals and significant departures, this riverfront has served various roles, from a colonial port to a venue for contemporary festivities. Here, you can enjoy a magnificent view of Saigon’s skyline—gleaming glass towers alongside leisurely boats and floating lotus lanterns. It’s a realm where history and modernity coexist, where skyscrapers rise from ancient earth, and where the river carries echoes of empires, conflict, resilience, and rebirth. This spot represents more than just a tour's conclusion; it is a fitting punctuation mark in the ongoing narrative of Saigon—and now, you are part of that narrative. You'll depart with a mind brimming with stories, a phone filled with pictures, and perhaps, just perhaps, a piece of Saigon in your soul.