1. Overview
Ho Chi Minh City is not only the economic center but also the largest tourism gateway in Southern Vietnam. Choosing tours from Saigon enables travelers to easily connect with heritage sites, natural areas, and stunning beaches.
Tour packages departing from here are always designed to optimize the experience for those with limited time. You can easily go and return in a day while still experiencing the cultural differences and landscapes.
2. Suggested Unique Tours from Saigon You Absolutely Can’t Miss
2.1. Exploring Cu Chi Tunnels: A Unique Journey Back to the Roots
Cu Chi Tunnels consistently top the list of most popular tours from Saigon due to their unique historical value. This is a magnificent underground defense system, a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people during the war.
Visitors will experience the feeling of navigating through narrow tunnels and learn about the layout of booby traps and the Hoàng Cầm kitchens. The lush green surroundings of the Củ Chi suburbs also provide a welcome respite after hours of historical sightseeing.
Explore the tunnels located deep underground at Cu Chi Tunnels. (Source: internet)
2.1.1. Choosing Between “Bến Đình” and “Bến Dược”
“Bến Đình” is the most popular destination for group tours due to its proximity and comprehensive range of experiential services. Here, the tunnel sections have been widened to accommodate the physical capabilities of international visitors.
Conversely, “Bến Dược” offers a more pristine and tranquil atmosphere for those who want to delve deeper into the historical site. This is also where the Bến Dược Martyrs’ Memorial Temple is located, with its solemn architecture and rich cultural heritage.
The Ben Duoc Martyrs’ Memorial is a historical and cultural landmark of Ho Chi Minh City, commemorating the contributions of Vietnamese soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives in the Saigon – Cholon – Gia Dinh region during the two wars of resistance against French and American colonialism. (Source: internet)
2.1.2. Reference Costs for Cu Chi Tours
A half-day tour package by tourist bus currently costs approximately 16.37 USD per passenger. This price usually includes pick-up and drop-off in District 1, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees to attractions.
2.2. Mekong Delta River Journey: The Soul of the Western Region
The Mekong Delta is an unmissable destination in a series of tours from Saigon, whether long or short. Visitors will be immersed in the space of lush fruit orchards and intricate canals.
The simplicity of the people of the Western region and their lifestyle on the waterways create an irresistible charm. You will sit on traditional sampan boats, weaving through the verdant coconut groves.
2.2.1. Experiencing 4 Islands in My Tho and Ben Tre
The program usually takes guests to four islands named after four mythical creatures: Dragon, Kirin, Turtle, and Phoenix. Visitors will enjoy fragrant honey tea, eat seasonal fruits, and listen to unique traditional folk music (Đờn ca tài tử).
Visiting a traditional coconut candy factory will help you understand more about the process of making this specialty gift. You can also challenge yourself by rowing a boat or riding a rickshaw around the village roads.
Experience listening to Don Ca Tai Tu—an intangible cultural heritage recognized by UNESCO—on tours from Saigon to the Mekong Delta River Journey. (Source: internet)
2.2.2. Prices and Included Services
A one-day Mekong Delta tour departing from Saigon by limousine currently costs around 22.85 USD. This price includes lunch with the region’s signature deep-fried elephant ear fish.
2.3. Can Gio Ecotourism: The Green Lung of the City
If you want to find a pristine natural space right next to Saigon, tours from Saigon to Can Gio are an ideal choice. This world biosphere reserve boasts an incredibly rich and diverse mangrove forest system.
Can Gio offers fresh air and a feeling of complete separation from the hustle and bustle of the city. This is a great location for weekend picnics or biology research trips.
2.3.1. Visiting Monkey Island and Vam Sat Conservation Area
Monkey Island is home to thousands of wild monkeys that are very friendly and playful with visitors. However, you need to be careful to protect your personal belongings when in close contact with them.
Vam Sat Tourist Area offers adventurous experiences such as crocodile fishing or birdwatching by boat. From the top of Tang Bong Tower, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the vast green mangrove forest.
The Can Gio Biosphere Reserve boasts a diverse and rich ecosystem of flora and fauna, and is the first World Biosphere Reserve in Vietnam. (Source: internet)
2.3.2. Cost of Visiting Can Gio
The price of a full-day tour package to Can Gio by car usually ranges from 32.37 USD. If your group travels privately and requests more premium services, the cost can go up to 57.13 USD per person.
2.4. Vung Tau Beach Resort: A Vibrant Weekend Destination
Vung Tau has long been a familiar destination in tours from Saigon thanks to its short travel distance. This coastal city boasts long beaches, religious architecture, and delicious fresh seafood.
With the completion of the expressways, the travel time from Saigon to Vung Tau will be only about an hour. This gives tourists more time to enjoy the entertainment services here.
2.4.1. Must-See Check-In Spots
The Christ the King statue on the top of Nho Mountain is an iconic landmark that every visitor wants to conquer when coming to Vung Tau. From the statue’s arm, you can admire the panoramic view of the vibrant coastal city under the sunlight.
The Vung Tau lighthouse, with its classic French architecture, is also a stop that provides beautiful commemorative photos. In addition, strolling on Bai Sau beach at sunset will bring wonderful moments of relaxation.
The Christ the Redeemer statue, also known as the Statue of Christ with outstretched arms, is considered a miniature version of the Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil and is a must-see destination when traveling to Vung Tau. (Source: internet)
2.4.2. Tour Price and Transportation
A one-day Vung Tau tour, including sightseeing and a seafood lunch, costs approximately 30.47 USD. If you choose to travel by GreenlinesDP speedboat from Bach Dang pier, the cost will increase by approximately 14.47 USD for a round-trip ticket.
2.5. Tay Ninh – Ba Den Mountain: A Spiritual and Adventurous Journey
Ba Den Mountain is the “Roof of Southern Vietnam” and a very important spiritual destination in tours from Saigon. With a large cable car system, visitors can easily conquer the mountain peak to worship the statue of the Goddess of the West.
The climate on the mountaintop is always cool year-round, creating favorable conditions for visiting the vibrant flower gardens. The space here offers peace and tranquility, helping visitors recharge after days of work.
Ba Den Mountain is not only a place of pilgrimage and worship, but also a destination for “healing” and balancing body, mind, and spirit, especially for those on a Tay Ninh – Ba Den Mountain trip as part of tours from Saigon. (Image source: Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism)
2.5.1. Cao Dai Holy See and Unique Architecture
A visit to the Cao Dai Holy See, a unique religious architectural masterpiece, is often included in tours to Tay Ninh. Visitors will witness a colorful prayer ceremony and learn about the harmonious doctrines of the Cao Dai religion.
The architecture of the Holy See is a sophisticated blend of Eastern and Western artistic elements. The columns carved with winding dragons and the dazzling domes will amaze you upon entering.
2.5.2. Cable Car Ticket Prices and Tour Packages
A round-trip cable car ticket to the summit of Ba Den Mountain currently costs around 15.24 USD for adults. A one-day all-inclusive tour package from Saigon to Tay Ninh costs approximately 34.28 USD, including transportation, a guide, and lunch.
Visitors can check ticket prices and promotions at Sun World Ba Den Mountain. Buying tickets online saves you time waiting at the ticket counter on weekends.
2.6. Experiencing Saigon After Dark: When the City Lights Up
2.6.1. Saigon River Dinner Tour
Enjoying a meal on the Indochina Queen or Saigon Princess cruise ship is a luxurious and romantic experience. The ship will take you along the Saigon River to admire iconic buildings like Landmark 81 from the water.
The price for a dinner and sightseeing tour ranges from 34.28 USD to 53.32 USD. This is a perfect choice for celebrations or simply to see the city from a different perspective.
2.6.2. Exploring Food by Motorbike
A street food tour by motorbike (Scooter Food Tour) offers the most exciting and authentic experience of Saigon life. You will be taken by young drivers through different districts to sample street food specialties.
The price for a 4-hour food tour by motorbike is approximately 26.66 USD per person. This is one of the most popular tours from Saigon you should definitely try when visiting Saigon, allowing you to enjoy the cuisine while cruising around the city on a motorbike.
Saigon spring rolls (Gỏi cuốn) are a popular and familiar street food in Ho Chi Minh City that you should try during your Food by Motorbike trip. (Source: internet)
2.7. Long Phuoc Tunnels: A Historical Experience Near Saigon
Long Phuoc Tunnels is a suitable destination for tourists who want to learn about the history of the resistance war through tours from Saigon but do not want to travel too far or spend too much time. The space here is quiet and less crowded, offering a more relaxed and accessible experience compared to other famous historical sites.
The site is located in Long Phuoc commune, Ba Ria city, Ba Ria-Vung Tau province (formerly), about 90 km from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. The tunnel system is of moderate scale, consisting of tunnels connecting shelters, living quarters, and combat zones, and is still quite well preserved.
Thanks to its convenient location, tours from Saigon to the Long Phuoc Tunnels are often organized as half-day or full-day trips. Visitors depart in the morning, explore the tunnels, listen to historical explanations, and experience a short tunnel walk, then return to Ho Chi Minh City or combine the trip with a visit to Vung Tau beach on the same day.
Tour costs range from approximately 28.89 to 69.34 USD per person, depending on whether it’s a group or private tour. The price usually includes transportation, entrance fees, and a tour guide.
2.8. Nam Cat Tien National Park: Experiencing Wild Nature Near Saigon
Nam Cat Tien National Park is a suitable destination for nature lovers when choosing short-term exploration and relaxation tours from Saigon. The vast primeval forest, fresh air, and lush green landscape allow visitors to temporarily escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
Located about 150 km from Ho Chi Minh City, Nam Cat Tien is suitable for a 2-day, 1-night trip. This tour is ideal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking eco-friendly experiences and research trips.
2.8.1. Highlights of Nam Cat Tien National Park
Participating in tours from Saigon to Nam Cat Tien, visitors have the opportunity to hike through the forest, exploring the tropical forest ecosystem with many ancient trees and rich vegetation.
In addition, the nocturnal wildlife viewing experience is a special highlight, allowing visitors to observe the natural life of animals in their wild environment. Cycling in the forest or along the internal roads is also a relaxing activity, allowing you to fully enjoy the peaceful and fresh atmosphere.
Experience cycling through the forest in Nam Cat Tien National Park. (Source: internet)
2.8.2. Estimated Costs
Tours from Saigon to Nam Cat Tien National Park are usually all-inclusive packages, focusing on nature experiences and overnight stays in the area near the national park.
- 2-day, 1-night group tour: approximately 88.6 – 105 USD/person
- Private tour (small group): approximately 123–145 USD/person
Tour prices usually include transportation, entrance fees, a tour guide, one night’s accommodation, and some meals as per the itinerary. Costs may vary depending on the time of year and included services.
Choosing the right tours from Saigon not only saves you time but also provides valuable insights into the South. Contact Asia Luxury Travel or book directly through our website to get the best prices. We are always ready to assist you in finding the most unique and unforgettable itineraries.
