A Day Ho Chi Minh City

Today’s tour will begin at 08:30. Explore the many wonders of Vietnam’s southern metropolis on this guided Ho Chi Minh City one day tour. Start with a trip to the Jade Emperor Pagoda, one of the city’s most significant pagodas. Continue on with a visit to Tan Dinh Market, which is said to be the oldest market in all of Ho Chi Minh City. Dating back to the 1800’s, this typical Vietnamese market sells all sorts of goods, though is particularly known for its local foods and fabrics. Enjoy a much more local market experience here, a place where tourists seldom visit.

Take a closer look at Vietnamese culture with a visit to the FITO Museum. This museum has an impressive collection of 3,000 items related to the development of traditional Vietnamese medicine. See implements used to prepare indigenous herbs, objects commonly found in traditional pharmacies as well as ancient books and documents on traditional Vietnamese medicine.

After the museum visit, fuel up with a local lunch at Propaganda Restaurant. Delicious dishes are accented by unique, propaganda-themed artwork from throughout Vietnam’s recent history. Continue the history-themed experiences with a more poignant walk into Vietnam’s past with either the War Remnants Museum or the History Museum (based on personal preference).

Then take a walking tour from the historic Presidential Palace through the city centre. See the Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), Continental Hotel, Opera House and City Hall and learn about Vietnam’s colonial past. If time permits, wrap up the walking tour with a stroll through the classic Ben Thanh Market.

Having gained a greater understanding of Ho Chi Minh City’s culture and history, return to the hotel late this afternoon. (L)