The Hidden Gems & Insightful Stories of Saigon Walking Tour
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The Hidden Gems & Insightful Stories of Saigon Walking Tour

Active
(40 reviews)
3h
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

What sets the Saigon Walking Tour by Joy Journeys apart is the unique perspective and experience it offers as this is a walking tour with maximum 6 travelers in the group.

Unlike traditional guided tours focused on historical facts, this tour provides an opportunity to connect with Saigon's heart and soul through the eyes of enthusiastic and energetic university students. These young locals, who are soon-to-be professional tour guides, have a genuine passion for sharing their love for Saigon and Vietnam with global travelers.

The tour goes beyond surface-level knowledge and aims to foster cultural exchange and create memorable experiences. It allows participants to engage in casual conversations, ask questions, and delve into the personal stories, local insights, and recommendations of university students. Through their narratives, visitors gain a vivid picture of Saigon's beauty, traditions, and way of life, making the tour an authentic and immersive experience.

Available options

Group of 6 Travelers

What's included

Bottled water
All Fees and Taxes
Cup of Vietnamese coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da)

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, commonly known as Notre-Dame Cathedral, is a Catholic cathedral located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Built in the late 19th century, the cathedral's architecture is inspired by the French Gothic style, with its iconic twin bell towers standing at a height of 58 meters. The building's red brick exterior is decorated with intricate stone carvings and stained-glass windows. Despite being a popular tourist attraction and a place of worship for local Catholics, the cathedral has faced challenges in recent years due to structural deterioration and pollution, requiring ongoing renovation and preservation efforts.

NOTE: WE DO NOT ENTER, JUST TO SEE FROM THE OUTSIDE

2
Stop 2

The Ho Chi Minh City Post Office, also known as the Saigon Central Post Office, is a historic building located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Built in the late 19th century during the French colonial period, the post office's architecture is a beautiful blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French influences. The interior of the building features a spacious hall with a high ceiling, decorated with intricate maps and murals. The post office is still in operation today, providing postal services to both locals and tourists, while also serving as a popular tourist attraction due to its stunning architecture and historical significance.

NOTE: WE DO ENTER, NO TICKET REQUIRED

3
Stop 3

The Last Helicopter is a sculpture located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, that commemorates the end of the Vietnam War. The sculpture depicts a Huey helicopter, the iconic symbol of the war, as it takes off from the rooftop of the United States Embassy, with a group of Vietnamese people clinging to its landing skids, desperate to escape the country. The sculpture is based on a photograph taken during the evacuation of the embassy in 1975, and serves as a powerful reminder of the human cost of the war and the enduring legacy of its impact on both the United States and Vietnam. The sculpture is located on the rooftop of the Bitexco Financial Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the city, and is a popular tourist attraction for visitors seeking to learn more about the history of the war and its aftermath.

NOTE: WE DO NOT ENTER, JUST TO SEE FROM THE OUTSIDE AS IT IS NOW RESTRICTED BY THE GOVERNMENT

4
Stop 4

ndependence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, is a historic landmark located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Built in the 1960s, it was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. On April 30, 1975, tanks belonging to the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of the palace, symbolizing the end of the war and the reunification of Vietnam. Today, the palace is open to the public as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the history and politics of Vietnam during a turbulent period of its past.

NOTE: WE DO NOT ENTER, JUST TO SEE FROM THE OUTSIDE.

5

The Thich Quang Duc Monument is a statue located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, that commemorates the self-immolation of Thich Quang Duc, a Buddhist monk who set himself on fire in 1963 to protest the persecution of Buddhists by the South Vietnamese government. The statue depicts the moment of Thich Quang Duc's self-immolation, with the monk seated in a meditative pose, engulfed in flames. The monument serves as a symbol of resistance against oppression and a tribute to the bravery of Thich Quang Duc and the Buddhist community during a turbulent period in Vietnam's history. The statue is located on a busy intersection in the city and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking to pay their respects and learn more about the story behind the monument.

NOTE: WE DO ENTER, JUST TO SEE FROM THE OUTSIDE. NO TICKET REQUIRED

6

Originally built by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War, the tunnels were used as a base for guerrilla warfare and as a means of transporting supplies and weapons undetected by American and South Vietnamese forces

NOTE: WE ENTER THE BUNKER, TICKETS ARE INCLUDED

What's not included

Gratitude and Tips

Available languages

Audio guide
EN
Guide guide
EN
Written guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0
4 reviews
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4
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Tripadvisor 4.8
36 reviews
5★
34
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1★
2

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

You will see a guy wearing a t-shirt white or blue. If you have some problem to find the location kindly reach us on Whatsapp or calling , ourphone number will be visible after the bookign confirmation. Tour guide will send information about meeting point and time, with pictures as help

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 18-59
1
Childs
Age 3-10
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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