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Ho Chi Minh City Private Tour with Local Expert
Select Date and Travelers
Free cancellation
Up to 24 hours in advance. Learn More
4 Hours
Mobile ticket
Pickup offered
Offered in: English
Overview
Start with a glimpse of this elegant French colonial building Saigon Opera House, setting the tone for the city's architectural beauty. Visit Reunification Palace: Dive into Vietnam's modern history with a tour of this iconic landmark, the site of the end of the Vietnam War.
Central Post Office: Explore this beautiful example of French colonial architecture, designed by Gustave Eiffel. Pass by Former U.S. Embassy and Ba Son Bridge: Reflect on significant historical moments as you pass these landmarks, pivotal during the Vietnam War. Visit Jade Emperor Pagoda: Experience spiritual tranquility and admire intricate carvings and statues at this important Taoist temple.
Dai Viet Lacquerware: Witness the artistry & craftsmanship of traditional Vietnamese lacquerware. War Remnants Museum: Gain a poignant insight into the impact of the Vietnam War through powerful exhibits. Pass by People’s Committee Building as a majestic colonial-era building, symbolizing the city's administrative heritage.
What's Included
- Bottled water
- English speaking tour guide
- Parking Fees
- Tipping/ Gratuities or personal expenses
- Ticket entrance & air-con transportation vehicle fee $20 USD/ each will be collected on tour
Meeting And Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Pickup details
We will pick you up at hotels within district 1 of Ho Chi Minh city
What To Expect
Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater)
The Saigon Opera House, a stunning architectural gem in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, stands as a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage and vibrant arts scene. Built in 1897 by French architect Eugène Ferret, this magnificent edifice boasts an exquisite blend of French colonial and Renaissance architectural styles. Its elegant façade, adorned with intricate carvings and statues, draws visitors into a world of artistic splendor. Inside, the opulent interior, featuring grand staircases, chandeliers, and plush seating, provides an ideal setting for a variety of performances, from classical concerts and ballets to modern theatrical productions. Located on the bustling Dong Khoi Street, the Saigon Opera House not only serves as a cultural hub but also as a historical landmark, offering a glimpse into the city's colonial past while celebrating its contemporary artistic spirit.
• Admission Ticket Free
Reunification Palace. Hcmc. Vietnam
Standing majestically in the heart of Saigon, the Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, is a powerful symbol of Vietnam's turbulent history & resilient spirit. This architectural marvel, completed in 1966, served as the presidential headquarters during the Vietnam War. Today, it offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past with its well-preserved rooms, war command bunkers, historical artifacts. Explore the opulent state rooms, the president's living quarters, and the grand conference hall where critical decisions were made. The palace's stunning 1960s design, featuring elegant lines & spacious interiors, reflects a blend of traditional Vietnamese & modernist styles. The lush gardens & iconic tank display add to the historical ambiance. Visit to the Reunification Palace is not just a step back in time but a profound journey through Vietnam's path to peace and reunification, making it a must-see landmark for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike..
45 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Central Post Office
Experience a unique dining adventure amidst the grandeur of the Saigon Central Post Office. Step into this architectural masterpiece, where history and gastronomy intertwine in a captivating fusion. Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch served in the elegant surroundings of this iconic landmark. Delight in a menu crafted to tantalize your taste buds with authentic flavors and local delicacies. As you dine, marvel at the soaring ceilings, ornate columns, and exquisite architectural details that adorn the post office's interior. Let the ambiance transport you to a bygone era while you indulge in a culinary journey through Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. From fragrant pho and savory banh mi to delicate spring rolls and vibrant salads, each dish is a celebration of the country's diverse and vibrant cuisine. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, lunch at the Saigon Central Post Office promises to be an unforgettable affair.
15 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Former U.S. Embassy
The former U.S. Embassy in Saigon, now Ho Chi Minh City, stands as a significant historical site from the Vietnam War era. Located at 4 Le Duan Boulevard, the embassy became a symbol of American involvement in Vietnam. Its most iconic moment occurred on April 30, 1975, during the Fall of Saigon, when dramatic images of helicopters evacuating American personnel and at-risk Vietnamese from the rooftop were broadcast worldwide. The embassy complex, originally built in 1967, witnessed numerous key events, including peace talks and military strategizing. After the war, the building was repurposed and later demolished in the 1990s. Today, the site is occupied by the U.S. Consulate General, serving as a reminder of the complex history between the United States and Vietnam. The legacy of the former U.S. Embassy in Saigon remains a poignant chapter in the story of the Vietnam War and its lasting impacts on both nations.
• Admission Ticket Free
Ba Son Bridge, also known as Thu Thiem 2 Bridge, is an architectural highlight in Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon), connecting District 1 with the Thu Thiem New Urban Area in District 2. Spanning the Saigon River, this cable-stayed bridge is a key infrastructure project aimed at easing traffic congestion and promoting urban development in the city. Completed in 2022, Ba Son Bridge is approximately 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles) long and features a distinctive design with a main tower rising 113 meters (371 feet) above the river. The bridge is part of the city's broader plan to enhance connectivity and support economic growth, symbolizing the city's modernization and strategic planning. Ba Son Bridge not only facilitates smoother transportation but also offers stunning views of the Saigon River and the surrounding urban landscape. It has quickly become an iconic landmark, representing the city’s commitment to infrastructure improvement and its vision for future development.
• Admission Ticket Free
Emperor Jade Pagoda
The Jade Emperor Pagoda, also known as Chua Ngoc Hoang, is a mystical gem in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1909, this Taoist temple is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the King of Heaven in Chinese mythology. Stepping into the pagoda, you are enveloped in an atmosphere thick with the scent of burning incense and the glow of candlelight. The temple's intricate wood carvings, elaborate statues, and colorful tile work captivate the eye, each piece telling a story from ancient lore. The main hall houses the majestic statue of the Jade Emperor, surrounded by a pantheon of deities and guardian figures. Outside, a tranquil pond filled with turtles, symbolizing longevity, adds to the serene ambiance. The Jade Emperor Pagoda is not just a place of worship but a spiritual oasis, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and religious heritage of Vietnam. Whether you seek peace, blessings, or cultural insight, this enchanting pagoda promises a deeply fulfilling experience.
20 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty of Vietnamese artistry at the Dai Viet Lacquerware Factory, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh city. This renowned factory invites you into a world where tradition meets innovation, showcasing the meticulous process behind the creation of stunning lacquerware. As you explore the factory, you'll witness skilled artisans at work, transforming raw materials into intricate masterpieces through techniques passed down through generations. Each piece, whether a decorative plate, vase, or jewelry box, embodies the rich cultural heritage and artistic finesse of Vietnam. The vibrant colors and intricate designs are a testament to the dedication and passion of the craftsmen. At Dai Viet, you can also try your hand at this ancient craft, creating your own lacquered souvenir under the guidance of expert artisans. Dai Viet Lacquerware Factory is not just a shopping experience but a journey into the heart of Vietnamese artistry and tradition.
30 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
War Remnants Museum
The War Remnants Museum, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is a profound journey through Vietnam's turbulent history. Established in 1975, this museum offers a stark, compelling look at the impact of the Vietnam War. Its exhibits include haunting photographs, poignant personal artifacts, and military equipment like tanks, helicopters, and fighter jets. The museum's most gripping feature is the collection of graphic imagery and detailed accounts of wartime atrocities, highlighting the resilience and suffering of the Vietnamese people. The War Remnants Museum is more than a historical archive; it's a sobering reminder of the horrors of war and a powerful call for peace. Visitors leave with a deep sense of the war's lasting legacy and an enhanced appreciation for the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome.
50 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
People's Committee Building
The People’s Committee Building in Ho Chi Minh City is a stunning architectural gem that captures the essence of the city's colonial past. Built between 1901 and 1908, this iconic French colonial-style structure features a beautiful facade with ornate details, grand columns, and a towering clock spire. The building, also known as the Hôtel de Ville, serves as the headquarters for the city’s government but stands out as a historic landmark. Nestled at the end of Nguyen Hue Street, it offers a picturesque backdrop for photos, especially when illuminated at night. The surrounding gardens and the nearby statue of Ho Chi Minh add to the charm, making it a favorite spot for both tourists and locals. Although the interior is not open to the public, the exterior alone is worth a visit for its elegance and historical significance. The People’s Committee Building is a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Ho Chi Minh City.
5 Minutes • Admission Ticket Included
Additional Info
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Everyone can join this tour
Operated by Local Travel Vietnam
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
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