Ho Chi Minh City in 5 days
4.4 8

Itinerary

Experience the vibrant heart of Vietnam on this immersive 5-day tour of Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta. From the bustling streets of Saigon to the serene waterways of the Mekong, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, delicious cuisine, and unforgettable experiences. Discover the rich history of Vietnam, indulge in local flavors, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of the Vietnamese people.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, including the War Remnants Museum, Reunification Palace, and Notre Dame Cathedral
  • Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market and Chinatown
  • Take a scenic journey to the Mekong Delta, visiting local workshops and enjoying traditional folk music
  • Enjoy a leisurely day with optional tours to the Cu Chi Tunnels or Can Gio Mangrove Forest
  • Savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine with meals included throughout the tour

DAY 1: Saigon Arrival

Upon your arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your English-speaking guide. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel, where you can check in and unwind. This day is free for you to explore at your leisure. Consider taking a stroll around your hotel to get a taste of the vibrant city life, or relax and prepare for the exciting days ahead.

Tour guide: English speaking guide

Meals: N/A

DAY 2: Full day Saigon City tour

After breakfast, set off for an immersive full-day city tour of Ho Chi Minh City, a vibrant metropolis where historic charm meets modern energy.

Your day begins with a visit to the War Remnants Museum, offering a powerful and moving perspective on the Vietnam War through photographs, artifacts, and exhibits that provide valuable historical context.

Continue your journey with stops at several of the city’s most iconic landmarks:

Reunification Palace – Formerly the Presidential Palace of South Vietnam, this building played a significant role in the country’s history and remains frozen in time since the events of 1975.

Notre Dame Cathedral – Built by the French in the late 1800s, this elegant red-brick church is a symbol of colonial architecture and Christian heritage.

General Post Office – Just across from the cathedral, admire the beautiful design of this functioning post office, designed by Gustave Eiffel.

Opera House – Take in the ornate exterior of this stunning French colonial building, still used for performances today.

In the afternoon, explore the city’s more local side:

Ben Thanh Market – A lively indoor market where you can browse local produce, textiles, souvenirs, and street food.

Chinatown (Cholon) – Dive into the energy of this bustling district, home to temples, herbal medicine shops, and traditional markets.

Later, hop aboard a cyclo, a traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxi, for a leisurely and atmospheric ride through the city’s bustling streets. It’s a great way to experience Saigon’s charm from a slower, street-level perspective.

Wrap up your day with a delicious Vietnamese dinner at a local restaurant. Savor signature dishes like pho, bun thit nuong, or ca kho to, while reflecting on the city’s blend of heritage and vitality.

Tour-guide: English Speaking Guide 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Welcome to Saigon sightseeing

DAY 3: Full day Mekong Delta

After breakfast, set out on a scenic drive to the Mekong Delta, often referred to as the “rice bowl” of Vietnam for its fertile lands and vibrant river life.

Your first stop is the charming riverside town of Cai Be, where you’ll gain insight into traditional village life. Begin your exploration with visits to local workshops, where you can observe:

  • The making of pop rice and popcorn, using age-old techniques

  • Coconut candy production and how locals shape these sweets by hand

  • Rice paper making, essential to many Vietnamese dishes

Next, board a boat for a relaxing cruise along the Mekong River. As you glide past stilt houses, fruit orchards, and lush greenery, take in the peaceful scenery and watch daily river life unfold.

Your journey continues with a stop at the Ut Trinh homestay, a welcoming local house nestled along the canals. Here, you’ll:

  • Enjoy a live performance of traditional Southern Vietnamese folk music (Đờn ca tài tử) by local artists

  • Stroll through the garden to see tropical fruits and plants

  • Interact with friendly hosts and learn about rural customs

A home-cooked lunch will be served featuring regional dishes such as elephant ear fish, fresh spring rolls, and caramelized pork—a true taste of the Mekong.

After lunch, relax before making your return journey to Ho Chi Minh City, where you’ll arrive in time for dinner. Enjoy the evening at leisure or explore more of Saigon’s vibrant dining scene on your own.

Tour-guide: English Speaking Guide 

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and dinner


DAY 4: Leisure day in Saigon

Today is a leisurely day in Ho Chi Minh City. This is a perfect opportunity to slow down, reflect on your journey, or explore more of the city’s vibrant neighborhoods at your own pace.

Suggested activities include:

  • Relaxing at a street-side café with a traditional iced coffee or fresh coconut

  • Browsing boutique shops or souvenir stores in District 1

  • Taking a peaceful stroll through Tao Dan Park or along Nguyen Hue walking street

If you’re in the mood for more adventure, you can choose from two enriching half-day excursions for an optional:

Option 1: Cu Chi Tunnels – Discover an incredible underground world used by Vietnamese soldiers during the war. Explore parts of the tunnel network, view hidden trapdoors, and learn about the resourceful techniques used to survive and communicate underground.

Option 2: Can Gio Mangrove Forest – Escape the city with a trip to this UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve, home to monkeys, crocodiles, and a dense mangrove ecosystem. A relaxing boat ride and nature walk offer a breath of fresh air and insight into Vietnam’s unique wetlands.

**Please contact us for more details about an optional

In the evening, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling more of Vietnam’s delicious cuisine. From grilled meats to fragrant soups and tropical desserts, the city offers endless options to satisfy every palate.

Tour guide: None

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Cu Chi Tunnels for Optional

DAY 5: Saigon Departure

After breakfast, check out of your hotel. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for last-minute shopping or sightseeing. You will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat International Airport for your departure, concluding your memorable journey through Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta.

Tour guide: None

Meals: Breakfast

Pricing

From US $299. Please contact us for more details!

Below is the hotel list for standard quality. If you’d like to upgrade to a premium hotel, just let us know by contacting us here. Since this is a private tour, we can easily adjust your journey to fit your travel wishes.

Cities Hotel Category
Standard
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) Roseland Corp hotel
Deluxe room

Include & Exclude

TRIP INCLUSIVE

  • Private transportation (with AC) in pickup, drop off airport and during the tour
  • Accommodation at hotel with breakfast
  • English speaking tour guide
  • Meals as indicated in
  • Entrance fees for sightseeing

TRIP EXCLUSIVE

  • International flights
  • Meals not included in
  • Drinks during the meals
  • Tips & Personal expenses
  • Banking service fee

Note:
* Check in time: 02.00 pm – Check out time: 12.00 pm
* Price is based on a minimum of 2 people sharing 1 double/ twin room. Single supplement is surcharged when one person occupies one room.

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