6-Day Best of South Vietnam: Saigon History, Mekong Delta Adventure & Cu Chi

Today, you will dive deep into the city's history and iconic architecture, leaving you with a profound sense of connection to Vietnam's resilient spirit.

Morning: Presidential Legacy & Colonial Grandeur

• 9:00 AM: Our guide picks you up for a journey to the Independence Palace (Reunification Palace). Walk through the preserved rooms and the infamous bunker basement, standing exactly where the Vietnam War officially ended in 1975. This visit offers a powerful, emotional encounter with 20th-century history.

• Leisurely Walking Tour: We then stroll through the city center to admire the stunning French colonial architecture. Marvel at the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral (currently under restoration, but a picturesque sight nonetheless) and the beautifully preserved Saigon Central Post Office, designed by the legendary Gustave Eiffel.

Afternoon: Reflection & City Life

• Lunch Break: You have time to grab lunch or enjoy a refreshing Vietnamese coffee (at your own expense) near the central area.

• The War Remnants Museum: Prepare for a powerful, essential experience at the museum. The exhibits provide a raw, multi-sided view of the Vietnam War, inspiring a deep sense of humility and global perspective.

• Ben Thanh Market Immersion: We finish the day at the bustling Ben Thanh Market. Opened since 1870, this is where you can truly feel the local life—a vibrant symphony of sights, sounds, and smells. It’s the perfect place to hunt for unique souvenirs and sample authentic street food.

Practical Details: Focus: History, Colonial Architecture, Local Market Life.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: Breakfast (B), Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day.

Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar

Today takes you outside the city for an unforgettable day of historical intrigue and unique spiritual exploration, leaving you with a genuine sense of awe at human resilience.

Morning: The Underground City

• 8:00 AM: We drive out to the Cu Chi Tunnels, the legendary underground network that was vital during the war.

• Hands-on History: You'll crawl through sections of the incredibly narrow tunnels, witness the ingenuity of the booby traps, and see the makeshift kitchens and living quarters. This immersive experience gives you a tangible understanding of the tough conditions and Viet Cong’s determination.

• Optional Thrill: For those seeking extra adventure, there is an optional shooting range where you can try real gun firing (paid on the spot, not included).

Afternoon: The Great Divine Temple

• Cao Dai Temple, Tay Ninh: We continue to one of Vietnam’s most sacred and visually striking sites. Caodaism is a uniquely Vietnamese religion that blends beliefs from various global faiths.

• Witness the Midday Mass: If timed correctly, you will attend the midday mass, a colorful, mesmerizing ceremony filled with chanting and beautiful, symbolic attire. The Temple’s architecture—a vibrant fusion of Eastern and Western design—is truly breathtaking, offering a profound spiritual and visual journey.

After a local Included Lunch (L), we transfer back to your Ho Chi Minh City hotel, full of historical insight.

Practical Details: Focus: War History, Religious Syncretism, Rural Drive.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day.

Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar

Today marks a dramatic, tranquil shift as we leave the urban intensity of Saigon and journey to the Mekong Delta, filling you with a blissful sense of escape and serenity.

Morning: Cai Be's Gentle Flow

• We drive south to Cai Be. Upon arrival, we immediately embark on a traditional boat trip to explore the canals and orchards. The gentle rocking of the boat and the lush greenery offers an instant calming effect.

• Local Craft Discoveries: Visit small craft workshops specializing in rice popcorn, creamy coconut caramel, and delicious rice cakes. You’ll witness the simple, traditional processes of Delta life.

• Biking & Tranquility: Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or walk along the peaceful village paths, passing ancient houses and visiting the serene Phu Chau Pagoda. This is where you truly feel the warmth of the local community.

Afternoon: Fish, Fruit, and Can Tho

• Included Lunch (L): Savor a delicious meal featuring the local specialty, Elephant Ear Fish, served in an open-air restaurant overlooking the river.

• Fruit Orchard Delight: End the Cai Be experience by tasting delicious tropical fruits and enjoying a relaxing rowboat trip through shaded, smaller canals.

• Journey to Can Tho: We then drive to Can Tho, the largest city in the Delta. Check into your riverside hotel and enjoy a free evening to explore the bustling Ninh Kieu pier area, where the river comes alive after dark.

Practical Details: Focus: River life, Local crafts, Biking, Transfer to Can Tho.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Boat (Cai Be), Transportation, Bike (Cai Be), 2 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day.

Accommodation: Ninh Kieu Riverside Hotel (Executive Superior City view) or similar 2 Hai Ba Trung street, Ninh Kieu district, Can Tho city, Vietnam

Experience the early morning magic of the Mekong, followed by a cultural deep-dive and a smooth return to the city, giving you a strong sense of wonder and accomplishment.

Morning: The Watery Marketplace

• Early Start: After breakfast, we head to the pier for a boat trip to the Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest and most vibrant market in the Delta.

• Sensory Overload (in the best way!): Hundreds of colorful sampans loaded with fresh produce create a buzzing, lively atmosphere. You will witness commerce conducted entirely on the water, a unique cultural sight that will captivate your senses.

• Fruit Garden & Ancient House: Continue the boat trip through peaceful canals to visit a local fruit garden. We then stop at the historical Binh Thuy Ancient House, famous for being the filming location of the movie The Lover.

Afternoon: Journey North

• Included Lunch (L): Enjoy a final taste of the Delta with lunch before beginning the transfer back north to Ho Chi Minh City.

• Late Afternoon Arrival: We check back into your hotel in Saigon. The evening is free for you to grab dinner, revisit a favorite spot, or simply relax after your immersive river adventure.

Practical Details: Focus: Floating market experience, Historical house, Transfer back to Saigon.

Inclusions: English speaking guide, Meal: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Boat (Cai Rang), Transportation, Entrance fees, 2 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day.

Accommodation: Elios Hotel (Senior Superior Room) or similar

Enjoy your last Included Breakfast (B) in Vietnam, reflecting on the unforgettable mosaic of experiences—from the tunnels of Cu Chi to the serenity of the Mekong.

At the scheduled time, our private driver will pick you up from your hotel and ensure a smooth, comfortable transfer to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) for your departure.

You leave having explored the Best of Southern Vietnam, carrying a rich tapestry of history, adventure, and cultural connection.

Practical Details: Focus: Seamless departure.

Inclusions: Meal: Breakfast (B), Transportation, 2 bottles of mineral water (500 ml)/pax/day.