Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City

Explore a fascinating side of Vietnamese history in the countryside to the north of Ho Chi Minh City. During the Vietnam War, Viet Cong communist fighters dug a 250km-long network of tunnels here in which they could hide for long periods, store food and weapons, communicate with other resistance groups and more. For this visit, you’ll travel by private transfer straight to Cu Chi, where you’ll learn all about these extraordinary relics of the country’s past. You’ll hear about the challenging conditions in this three-level underground “village” at the time, from the darkness and foul-smelling air to invasions of snakes and scorpions, but also the ingenuity that enabled the creation of subterranean hospitals, kitchens and wells. A short section of tunnel has been widened a little (and cleared of insects), so brave and curious visitors can get an insight into what life was like below ground for themselves. From here, you’ll return to Ho Chi Minh City in time for lunch (not included).

• Daily departures
• Operates year round
• Private

Good to know
The heat and humidity make the narrow tunnels even stuffier than you’d imagine possible, so don’t feel you have to experience them if you’d rather not.

If you’ve always wanted to experience Saigon like a local, this fun-filled morning tour by vintage Vespa scooter is for you. Riding behind an experienced driver who knows the streets like the back of their hand, you’ll be whisked around a beguiling blend of must-see landmarks and off-the-beaten-track gems. You’ll discover a secret weapon bunker dating from the Vietnam War, watch coffee made the traditional way in clay pots at Saigon’s oldest café and be dazzled by the colour and scent of a vibrant flower market. You’ll also explore a historic residential district, stop at breathtaking Buddhist temples and check out specialist markets dedicated to everything from spare parts for motorbikes to fabrics from all around Asia. Lunch at a neighbourhood restaurant that serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine is a perfect way to round off an adventure that’s sure to be a hit with couples and honeymooners.

• Daily departures
• Operates year round
• Group experience

Good to know
This trip is suitable for those over the age of 16 only. Helmets - and raincoats in case of showers - are provided.

Plunge into Saigon’s dynamic night-time scene local-style as you zip between some of its buzziest foodie haunts on a vintage Vespa. Riding pillion behind an expert driver, you’ll begin the evening with a tour around several vibrant downtown districts, passing some of the city’s must-see sights. After pausing for a drink and a spot of people-watching at a neighbourhood café, you’ll head for one of Saigon’s best stalls for banh mi, a stubby baguette sandwich with an array of delicious classic fillings. The next stop is a bustling night flower market, ablaze with colour, followed by a taste of traditional rice pancakes and seafood at a popular restaurant. No gourmet experience is complete without something sweet to finish things off, so the final tasting of the evening is Vietnamese che - a sort of dessert soup - which comes in a dizzying range of varieties.

• Daily departures
• Operates year round
• Group experience

Good to know
This trip is suitable for those over the age of 16 only. While every effort will be made to cater for food allergies or special diets, this may not always be possible.

There are few more relaxing and rewarding ways of spending a day exploring Saigon, aka Ho Chi Minh City, than in your own car, complete with a driver and guide. It gives you the freedom to set your own itinerary and then change your mind if you spot something enticing along the way. There’s no timetable to stick to, so you can stop for a break when you want and stay for as long as you like - something that families will particularly appreciate. Want to mix up the guide-book highlights with places only the locals know about? Your guide will be happy to suggest options tailored to your interests, whether that’s a quirky shopping centre in what used to be a block of flats, a newly opened trendy café or just an overlooked corner of one of the city’s main sights.

• Daily departures
• Operates year round
• Private experience

Good to know
Entrance fees are not included. Mileage up to 100km is included; you can pay a small supplement directly to the driver for any extra distance or time.

A fantastic way to get to an introductory view of one of Vietnam’s largest cities, or explore if you are short on time, is by taking this private, guided tour. Begin in the historic heart of the city and walk along Dong Khoi Street, a District 1 thoroughfare once known as Rue Catinat which is lined with grand colonial buildings. Then it’s on to see the exterior of the Notre Dame Cathedral, a Romanesque landmark built in the 1800s, the grand Saigon Central Post Office and the Reunification Palace. The focus later in the day is Cholon, Vietnam’s largest Chinatown. Wander along Tran Hung Dao Street and through the clothing market, Soai Kinh Lam, and n to Cha Tam Chuch and Thien Hau Pagoda, the heart of Chinese culture in the city. The last stop of the day is the Ben Thanh Market, a city icon and a great place to bargain for textiles, jewellery and speciality dishes.

• Daily departures from Ho Chi Minh City
• Operates year-round
• Private experience