Full-day Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Highlights

Ho Chi Minh City , Vietnam

Full-day Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City Highlights

Active

(4 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover Vietnam's rich heritage with a visit to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, a 250-kilometer network that played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War. Explore underground hospitals, kitchens, and more. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Ho Chi Minh City's iconic sites, including the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Thien Hau Pagoda, each echoing the city’s unique cultural and historical significance.

Experience Highlights:
Cu Chi Tunnels Exploration: Traverse the legendary underground tunnels, hospitals, and living quarters from the Vietnam War era.
War Remnants Museum Visit: Gain insight into the Vietnam War’s impact through powerful exhibits.
Historic City Icons: Admire Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral.
Thien Hau Pagoda: Discover Chinese architecture and spirituality in Cho Lon's Chinatown.

Available options

Group Tour (max 15 pax/group)

Group Tour (max 15 pax/group) <br/>Pickup included

Private Tour

Private Tour <br/>Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off in Ho Chi Minh City Center

Travel insurance

Transportation with air-conditioning

Bottled drinking water

Entrance fees

Lunch

English speaking guides (other languages available upon request with surcharge)

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Start the day with a visit to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, which stretch over 250 kilometers. Cu Chi is one of the most notable and historical landmarks of the Vietnam War. The tunnel system was created in 1948 to assist the Viet Minh in their fight for independence from the French, and it later became legendary during the 1960s for its vital role in the Vietnam War. It allowed the Viet Cong (communist guerrillas) to control large rural areas just 65 kilometers from Ho Chi Minh City.
The tunnel network includes hospitals, living quarters, kitchens, storage areas, and workrooms, all located underground. Excavated in an area with clay mixed with laterite, the tunnels are highly durable and stable, with air circulation provided through strategically placed ventilation holes.

Stop 2

The temple is located right on busy Nguyen Trai Street. It can be accessed by entering through an iron gate and crossing a small courtyard. The roof is decorated with small delicately fashioned porcelain figurines expressing themes from Chinese religion and legends. Lanterns and wooden models of Chinese theaters hang over the entrance.

Stop 3

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a cathedral located in the downtown of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Established by French colonists who initially named it the Church of Saigon (French: l'Eglise de Saïgon), the cathedral was constructed between 1863 and 1880. The name Notre-Dame Cathedral has been used since 1959. It has two bell towers, reaching a height of 58 meters (190 feet).

Stop 4

Saigon Central Post Office is a post office in the downtown Ho Chi Minh City, near Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, the city's cathedral. The building was constructed when Vietnam was part of French Indochina in the late 19th century. It counts with Gothic, Renaissance and French influences. It was constructed between 1886 and 1891 and is now a tourist attraction

Stop 5

Operated by the Ho Chi Minh City government, an earlier version of this museum opened on September 4, 1975, as the Exhibition House for US and Puppet Crimes.
In 1995, following the normalization of diplomatic relations with the United States and end of the US embargo a year before, the references to "war crimes" and "aggression" were dropped from the museum's title as well; it became the War Remnants Museum

Stop 6

Independence Palace, also publicly known as Reunification Convention Hall , built on the site of the former Norodom Palace, is a landmark in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon), Vietnam. It was designed by architect Ngô Viết Thụ and was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. During the Fall of Saigon on 30 April 1975, it was the site of the end of the Vietnam War, when a North Vietnamese Army tank crashed through its gates.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as: shopping, telephone, beverage, etc.

Tips and gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.3

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Maximum 1 child accompanied 1 adult, the 2nd child will pay the adult price.

Important notes

Please provide the names and nationalities of each person joining the tour for insurance registration.

If you have a special event or a celebration occurring during the trip, please provide the date and the occasion. For dietary and medical requests, please provide specific information when booking.

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