Ho Chi Minh City, or Saigon as it is still known locally, is one of the most extraordinary cities in Vietnam, if not all of Asia.
With a population of close to eight million people, this booming free-market city is ablaze with life.
It is a city of amazing contrasts: elegant new international hotels, exclusive restaurants and bars side-by-side with roadside noodle stalls and vociferous cyclo drivers. It is said that there are four million motorbikes and scooters in the city, and the battle for road space in a rush-hour has to be seen to be believed. Bustling, booming, crowded and noisy – all words that barely scratch the surface of the addictive and often mesmerising chaos that is Saigon.
And yet, within the madness are pockets of tranquillity and calm. Grand colonial-era buildings and boulevards, parks and rivers and an array of cuisine served from roadside cafes to high-end restaurants; it’s no wonder that British author Graham Greene was so drawn in by Ho Chi Minh’s charm that it inspired one of his greatest literary feats. “The Quiet American” was penned during his stay at the iconic Caravelle Hotel, now a deluxe hotel located in the centre of the city.
When it comes to hotels, whether you are looking for five-star luxury or a smaller boutique hotel with local charm, Ho Chi Minh has it all. For the ultimate luxurious living, try the beautiful Park Hyatt Saigon; a boutique 5-star hotel with world-class facilities and a fantastic outdoor swimming pool. The centrally located Liberty Central Riverside Hotel sits on the riverfront and offers comfort and a rooftop pool whilst keeping you close to the action in downtown Ho Chi Minh. Or, why not try escaping the dizzying rush as day gives way to night by heading to the rooftop restaurant of the charmingly colonial Hotel Majestic. Sit back, relax and let the city whiz by you whilst enjoying unrivalled views of the city illuminated at night.
For a truly unique experience, join the throngs of locals on two wheels and take a Saigon Vespa Tour; the coolest way to explore undiscovered corners of the city. As well as city tours, it is also possible to take half-day trips to the famous Cu Chi tunnels of the Viet Cong. In order to understand Saigon and where its residents are coming from, it really does make sense to combine the tunnels with the War Remnants Museum.
Further afield, the city can be used as a base for excursions to the Mekong Delta, where the mighty Mekong River concludes its winding journey from Tibet. Take to the water in a traditional sampan (flat-bottomed wooden boat) and cruise past colourful floating markets and shimmering rice paddies. We generally suggest tours to the vibrant waterways of Cai Be; packed with fruit orchards, floating markets and lush tropical flora and fauna. A trip to Cai Be will truly take you away from the main tourist route and give you an authentic taste of real life in the Mekong region.
ETG Sample Itineraries in Vietnam
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Vietnam
A Different Side of Vietnam
Vietnam’s long narrow geography lends itself to a fairly obvious and well-trodden travel route. This holiday weaves away from that and offers second-time visitors or those who like something different, the chance to discover Vietnam in a new way.
Highlights
Hidden street tours
Discover “Saigon” and Hanoi with insiders tours of the backstreets and traditional markets of the less-explored districts.
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park
Kayak, cycle and trek around incredible Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, home to the world’s largest caves.
Vintage Vespa experience
Zip along the famous Hoi An to Hue coastline riding pillion on a vintage Vespa bike.
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Cambodia
Cambodia to Vietnam via The Mekong
On this holiday, you’ll experience the highlights of Cambodia and Vietnam, connected by the winding Mekong River. Travelling at a relaxed pace by river and road means you’ll truly feel the contrast between laid-back Cambodia and lively Vietnam.
Highlights
Mekong journeys
Cross the border between Cambodia and Vietnam by boat
Private Angkor Experience
Explore the timeless temples of Angkor with your expert guide
Vespa experience
Feel the atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) as you travel pillion on a vintage Vespa
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Vietnam
Vietnam Train Odyssey
If you can spare a little extra time, then there is no better way to explore Vietnam than by train. Follow the route of the ‘Reunification Express’ from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City via paddy fields, mountains and ancient ports.
As well as taking in the scenery whilst on board, you’ll have plenty of time to see the sites with our unique guided tours in each place you visit.
Highlights
Scenic journeys
Watch the lush and varied scenery unfold from your vantage point on the train
Halong
Set sail on picturesque Halong Bay aboard a traditional junk boat cruise
City highlights
Explore the sights of Hanoi and Saigon, the highlights and some hidden gems
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Vietnam
Vietnam Luxury Family Holiday
The hotels featured in this itinerary are top-notch, with excellent facilities to keep everyone occupied. They’ve not been selected simply for luxury’s sake, though. From a riverside gem in the Mekong Delta to a vast nature and beachfront resort on a beautiful beach, each is in a location that will allow the whole family to explore with ease and feel immersed in the destination.
Highlights
Mekong Delta
Explore the rural fishing villages and floating markets of the Mekong Delta by boat and bike – before returning to your hotel for a delicious afternoon tea by the river
Coastal views
Take in the panoramic views from your villa at a beach resort on a remote peninsula in Phu Yen province. Downtime and adventure in equal measure
Hoi An
Spend the morning enjoying the pool at your luxury resort near Hoi An.
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Vietnam
Vietnam: The Highlights and Far Beyond
This holiday weaves on and off Vietnam’s well-trodden tourist trail. You’ll get an insider’s view of the main cities and visit some of the country’s most beautiful rural locations. The accommodation ranges from an eco-resort in the mountains to a beach hotel and a lovely homestay.
The itinerary is for all ages, but it’s a good option for families looking for an active and immersive holiday at Easter. Spring is a good time to visit both Phu Luong in the North, Hoi An on the Central Coast and the Mekong Delta in the South.
Highlights
Ninh Binh
Cycle through paddy fields and explore the caves and limestone mountains of Ninh Binh province
Mekong Delta
Explore the tropical tributaries of the Mekong Delta and spend the night in a homestay.
Pu Luong Nature Reserve
Paddle past idyllic steeped paddy fields as you raft along the Cham River in Pu Luong Nature Reserve.
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Vietnam
Vietnam with a Culinary Twist
Fresh, exotic and exciting: Vietnamese food, influenced by myriad culinary traditions, is one of the world’s best cuisines. It also provides an excellent historical narrative.
Experience the best of this country without missing a beat.
Sample the sublime local street-food of Hanoi and Saigon, shop for fresh ingredients and learn to cook in Hoi An. Once you’ve learnt to crack the street-food codes, you might be brave enough to explore alone!
Highlights
Street food tour
Pull up a stool with the locals and sample popular street food snacks in Hanoi
Lunch in Hue
Drift down the Perfume River in Hue and enjoy a hosted lunch in a traditional Garden House
Cooking class
Visit a local market to buy the freshest ingredients before trying your hand at cooking some classic Vietnamese dishes
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Vietnam
Luxury, Boutique & Beach
Experience the highlights of Vietnam in a unique way combined with luxury and boutique accommodation. Your expert private guides and drivers will bring the captivating country to life, and there will be plenty of time to relax.
Highlights
Food experience
Savour authentic street food on a guided tour through Hanoi’s lively Old Quarter.
Vietage Train
Ride the scenic Vietage train, with some seriously smooth travel washed down with breathtaking coastal views.
Zannier Bai San Ho
Discover pristine beaches at Zannier Bai San Ho, with watersports and local village to explore
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Vietnam
Ultimate Classic Vietnam
A journey through Vietnam immersing yourself in the rich culture, enjoying breathtaking landscapes, and staying in some of the most luxurious hotels in Asia. What’s not to like?
The itinerary is designed to show you a side of Vietnam that others may miss without compromising on quality. Your cruise takes you further than Halong Long to explore Lan Ha Bay, which is a longer and steadier routing but oh, so much more fun and peaceful. Local guides are on hand to take you deep into the market to enjoy Hanoi’s vibrant street food. And much more.
The hotels are of unbelievable quality. Have a look for yourself, and we can, of course, adapt them to suit your own preferences—there are plenty of fantastic options.
Highlights
Lan Ha Bay
Cruise the serene waters of Lan Ha Bay on a traditional junk boat as the sun sets behind limestone peaks.
Amanoi
Unwind at Amanoi, nestled within a national park, with yoga, watersports, and panoramic sunrise treks.
Hue
Explore Hue’s historic treasures, from imperial tombs to the tranquil Perfume River.
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Cambodia
The Mekong in Style
Take in the highlights of Cambodia and southern Vietnam and spend four days cruising along the Mekong River in the finest style. Stay in Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap’s best hotels and travel through the Mekong aboard the luxurious Aqua Mekong cruise.
From your hotel base, and whilst cruising, you’ll enjoy a range of specially crafted excursions to ensure you experience the region memorably and uniquely, tailored to your style.
Highlights
Aqua Mekong
Indulge yourself in a river adventure aboard the Aqua Mekong.
Song Saa Private Island
Relax in paradise on Song Saa Private Island with snorkelling, yoga, and spa treatments.
Angkor
The magnificent temples of Angkor – say no more….
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