• The Independence Palace - Encircled by royal palm trees, the unique 1960s design of this government edifice and the mysterious atmosphere of its empty corridors make it a captivating sight. The first Communist tanks reached Saigon here on April 30, 1975, and it feels as though time has been frozen since that day. The building is closely linked to the city’s fall in 1975, yet it’s the quirky details and retro motifs that truly capture attention.
• War Remnants Museum - Previously known as the Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes, the War Remnants Museum is a favorite among Western visitors. Few museums worldwide depict the harsh impacts of war on civilians as effectively. Many of the horrors shown here were widely reported, but it’s rare for Westerners to hear the personal accounts of US military action victims. While some exhibits may be biased, many of the most shocking images of US atrocities are sourced from the US, including those of the notorious My Lai Massacre.
• Emperor Jade Pagoda - Constructed in 1909 to honor the supreme Taoist deity (the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, Ngoc Hoang), this is one of the most enchantingly atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City, filled with statues of ethereal deities and bizarre heroes. The air is thick with the scent of incense (huong), veiling the intricate woodcarvings. Its roof is adorned with elaborate tile work, and the temple’s statues, representing figures from both Buddhist and Taoist traditions, are crafted from reinforced papier mâché.
• Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral - Erected between 1877 and 1883, Notre Dame Cathedral brightens the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s government district, facing Ð Dong Khoi. A brick, neo-Romanesque church with 40m-high square towers capped with iron spires, the Catholic cathedral is dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Interior walls are decorated with devotional tablets and some stained glass remains.
• Central Post Office - Situated directly opposite Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh City’s impressive French post office is a classic of its era, designed by Marie-Alfred Foulhoux (though often attributed to Gustave Eiffel) and constructed between 1886 and 1891. Painted on the walls of its grand concourse are intriguing historic maps of South Vietnam, Saigon, and Cholon, while a mosaic of Ho Chi Minh is prominently displayed at the end of its barrel-vaulted hall. Note the splendid tiled floor of the interior and the abundant green-painted wrought iron.
• People’s Committee Building - Located at the end of Nguyen Hue walking promenade, it features three buildings with embossed statues of animals and people, intricate bas-reliefs on the walls, and a statue of Ho Chi Minh in front of the main building. The ideal time to visit is in the evening, as these features are beautifully lit with LED lights.
• Dong Khoi Street - Home to numerous French colonial buildings, Dong Khoi Street has witnessed many transformations in Ho Chi Minh City. During the French occupation, it was the hub of glamour and was known as Rue Catinat.
• Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater) - Adorning the intersection of Ð Dong Khoi and ÐL Le Loi, this magnificent colonial structure with a grand staircase was built in 1897 and is one of the city’s most iconic buildings. Officially called the Municipal Theatre, the Opera House embodies the extravagance of France’s belle époque. Performances range from ballet and opera to modern dance and musicals.
• Nguyen Hue Street - Nguyen Hue Street is a wide walking promenade in the heart of District 1 city center. This pedestrian area is lined with some stunning French colonial architectural marvels like the People’s Committee, the Rex Hotel, and a luxury shopping mall. In front of the People’s Committee, there is a statue of Uncle Ho Chi Minh and a nighttime fountain show.
• Ben Thanh Market - Centrally situated, Ben Thanh and its surrounding streets form one of HCMC’s most vibrant areas. Everything commonly consumed, worn, or used by the Saigonese is stacked high, and souvenirs are equally plentiful. Vendors are persistent and prices are typically higher than elsewhere (restaurant stalls are reasonable), so negotiate assertively and disregard any ‘Fixed Price’ signs.

• Private transportation
• Bottled water
• All fees and taxes included
• Lunch provided
• Personal tour guide

• Accommodation
• Air ticket
• Beverage during the meal
• Personal expenses
• Other services not above mentioned
• Tips for guide and driver

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