Saigon City Tour

Saigon (officially known as Ho Chi Minh City) is the capital of the south and is a large lively city with a vast selection of restaurants, coffee shops, bars and markets to explore. It’s also home to some of Vietnam’s most important 20th century historical sights.

This half-day tour takes you through bustling streets to key buildings at the heart of Vietnamese history over the last 100 years.

Visit the former Presidential Palace, where Vietnam’s presidents were based during the American conflict. The site also served as a base for many wartime operations. Its typical 1960s Soviet block-style architecture blends with traditional Chinese and Vietnamese furnishings. Together, they create a striking image of government life during this period.

Look out for the grand and opulent meeting rooms used to entertain international guests. You will also see deer antlers presented by hill tribe communities from central Vietnam. The bunker-like basement recalls the UK’s Cabinet War Rooms. It contains corridors, communications rooms, and operation centres used during bombing threats.

Next, visit the History Museum, which traces Vietnam’s origins from prehistoric times. It houses many historical and religious artefacts collected by the French across Indochina. Be sure to look out for the spectacular Buddha statue with 1,000 eyes and 1,000 arms. The museum also explores Vietnam’s culture before colonisation. A colourful display of traditional water puppetry appears in the museum grounds.

Finally, stop at the Catholic Notre Dame Cathedral built by the French in 1887. Nearby, visit the pink central post office with its impressive interior architecture.

What you’ll do

• Discover Ho Chi Minh City’s recent history on a guided tour through its most significant political and cultural landmarks.
• Visit the former Presidential Palace, exploring opulent meeting rooms and the bunker-like basement used during the American conflict.
• Explore the History Museum, home to religious artefacts, early Vietnamese history and traditional water puppetry displays.
• Stop at Notre Dame Cathedral and the historic Central Post Office, two enduring symbols of French colonial architecture.