freelance tour guide in ho chi minh

• For tour guides
• For tourists

• All countries ―
• Vietnam ―
• Ho Chi Minh City

Find a local private tour guide for sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam using Private Guide World by filtering your preferred language in the box at the top of this page in the center

Choose a local private tour guide in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Thanks to the Private Guide World service in a few clicks you can choose a personal tour guide to local attractions of Ho Chi Minh City city in Vietnam. Enter the destination, search parameters, and preferred language to see the results. You can use the filter ONLINE ONLY to see which local tour guide in Ho Chi Minh City is currently online!

Our private tour guides know Ho Chi Minh City and the surrounding region very well, speak the local vietnamese language plus the other languages, too, and can help you to understand the local people, culture, traditions, and history better while you are in Ho Chi Minh City. During the tour in Ho Chi Minh City, you will not have any problems with locals if a tour guide is by your side. Your local personal tour guide in Ho Chi Minh City will help you learn a lot about the region and share only the most exciting knowledge and best experiences with you. Check out some of the local sights & attractions of Ho Chi Minh City, wildlife & nature, and ask your personal tour guide to show you the local gems hidden from a regular tourist without a professional tour guide. Before you travel to Ho Chi Minh City, be sure you have enough local currency Vietnamese dong with you in case you need to buy a souvenir or tip a tour guide!

New GENERIC REQUEST

Please add some text to the message. The tour guide will answer you in a private message

• Already have an account? Log in
• Don’t you have an account? Sign up

Explore the world with tourHQ

• Destinations
• I am a Guide
• I am a Traveller
• Online Experiences
• Currency (USD)

Ho Chi Minh

Pulsing with scooters and Francophone churches, ramshackle food markets and soaring skyscrapers, Ho Chi Minh City is one of Vietnam’s most energetic cities. Click here to Experience Ho Chi Minh with city travel guide.

Search Cities in Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh Tour Guides

Dear Clients!. My name is Lee. I was born in South of Vietnam and graduated from National ...

Tour guide is not only my job but also my passion, i love to be a guide and meet tourists around ...

Varsha Soni

I'm a professional tour consultant. Done my MBA in travel and tourism management. I'm fluent ...

Jane Nguyễn

Xin Chao ! My name is Duyến or you can just call me Jane :)) I was born and grown up in a ...

Nguyen Tien Du

I have been working as a tour leader and local guide in Vietnam and Indo-China land for 19 years ...

HOANG NGUYEN (JOHN)

Hello World Travellers ! I'm HOANG, a professional English speaking tourguide/tour ...

I have been working for several adventure travel companies since 2002 as a Tour Leader and Tour ...

Anatoly Lobanov

It happened by a twist of fate that me and my wife turned up in Vietnam four years ago. After a ...

I am just a guy who want to go with you wherever you want to do whatever you desire. I am not a ...

Joseph Tran

Hello, Bonjour, Ciao, Hola valued Travellers.I was born and raised in the North of Vietnam and have ...

David Nguyen

Xin Chao! It's Nam (David ) from Hanoi, Vietnam. I was born and raised in Hanoi which is my home ...

Travelling is one of our life's targets, right? Yes, we love travelling a lot, especially we like ...

I am Mia, english speaking tour guide in Viet Nam. If you are planning a vacation here, I can ...

Thomas Thang Quach Trong

Hi, My name is Thanh Thao (Ken) and I’m a sophomore at university. Almost I can see some students ...

Vietnam Package Tours

Vietnamtours would like to customize any tour for you in the south & middle of ...

Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam’s largest city, a place that has emerged from its tumultuous time as Saigon, to become one of Southeast Asia’s most immersive and exhilarating experiences without question. Around the city centre, endless streams of purring mopeds weave their way through lanes and tight-knit streets, past the vast green parks and curious architectural relics of French-colonial rule, like the life-size replica of Notre Dame Cathedral on busy Han Thuyen Street. For the historically interested visitor, this city is an absolute must on the Vietnam trail, many of its structures standing testimony to the country’s late 20th century strife. The War Remnants Museum puts up an enthralling and harrowing exhibition while a visit to the Củ Chi tunnels is best experienced with a tour guide’s vivid ‘live’ chronicle into the lives of the soldiers at that time. This living, breathing, enormous metropolis, sprawled over the vast flatlands of the south seamlessly blends the old with the new, where skyscrapers and malls rub shoulders with old world temples and boisterous markets. To get into the complete local vibe, however make your way to the Ben Thanh Market and its surrounding streets, a splendid place for souvenirs, quirky street food and an authentic bowl of Pho noodles.

Tell us your destination, date, and group size.

Our team of travel experts and guides will design a tailored itinerary just for you., enjoy your trip with peace of mind knowing everything is taken care of..

Say Goodbye to Travel Stress

Choose Currency Close modal

• USD US, dollar
• GBP British Pounds

Cookie icon We use cookies!

We, and third parties, use cookies for technical and analytical purposes, for marketing purposes and for integration with social media. For more information, refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Consent.

By clicking on 'I agree', you consent to the use of these cookies.

Ho Chi Minh City tours

The best Ho Chi Minh City tours show you the past during the Vietnam War and colonial times. Go out with local guides to try the best street food and visit the local authentic spots.

Best tours in Ho Chi Minh City

Cu Chi Tunnels tour by speedboat

Sunset boat tour in Ho Chi Minh City

Island hopping & Floating temple by speedboat in Ho Chi Minh City

Diner cruise on the Saigon River

Cyclo tour Saigon: Discover authentic markets

Ho Chi Minh City street food tour

Saigon City & Food Tour on a vintage Vespa

Discover Saigon’s nightlife on a vintage Vespa

Cu Chi Tunnels half day deluxe tour

Saigon City Tour half day

Mekong delta day trips.

Mekong Delta speedboat tour from Ho Chi Minh City

Cu Chi Tunnels & the Mekong Delta combo tour

Authentic Mekong Delta tour (My Tho)

Deeper into the Mekong Delta tour (Ben Tre)

Discover the Mekong Delta tour (My Tho)

Looking for multi-day trips? View all our Mekong Delta Tours here.

Package tours including Ho Chi Minh City

About ho chi minh city.

Southern Ho Chi Minh City is a lively metropolis full of contrasts. From cheap guesthouses to luxury hotels, from expensive restaurants to the best street food, and from colorful markets to impressive war memorials. Are you going to Vietnam? Then you shouldn’t skip Ho Chi Minh City.

Frequently asked questions about Ho Chi Minh City tours

There is plenty to do in Ho Chi Minh City, but it is a busy city with millions of residents and scooters everywhere. It promises to give an impression during your trip, but for some this can be too much and prefer to leave the city as soon as possible.

The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City is in the dry season. This is in the months of December to April. But you can actually visit Ho Chi Minh City all year round. The city does not have to deal with violent natural phenomena (such as can occur in North and Central Vietnam) and the climate is actually always pleasant.

10 Ho Chi Minh City tours highlight

1. Cu Chi Tunnels

Crawl through the Vietnam War tunnels, watch out for the traps, shoot the shooting range and learn more about the war.

1. War Remnants Museum

Perhaps the best museum in the country. An impressive display of artifacts, photos and military vehicles that tell the story of the Vietnam War.

3. French colonial buildings

Between tall skyscrapers you will find French colonial buildings that are still in use today.

4. Street food tour by motorbike

Hop on the back of the motorcycle to explore the vibrant city and stop along the way to taste street food like a local.

5. Nightlife

The best nightlife can be found here; skyscrapers with a rooftop bar, beer stalls on the street, busy nightclubs, cozy bars and opera performances.

6. Reunification Palace

The place where the Vietnam War ended is now a museum. A visit takes you back to that time, since everything is still there from that time.

7. Bitexco Financial Tower

It was the tallest building in the city, but is still the most beautiful skyscraper. Upstairs you will find a restaurant and viewpoint.

8. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

The place where Vietnamese come in the evening for social life. A good insight into the daily life of the Saigoneers.

More authentic life can be found in the local markets throughout the city. From normal markets, to pet, flower and motorcycle markets.

10. Saigon River

Take a speedboat across the Saigon River to the Mekong Delta or take a dinner cruise with a view of the skyline.

Destinations near Ho Chi Minh City

• Destination Guide
• Essential Guide
• Getting Around
• Vietnam Month by Month
• Inspiration
• Vietnam blog
• Travel tips
• Custom Made Trip
• Day- & Multiple Day tours
• Holiday Packages
• Local Meo Vac Homestay
• Local Dong Van Homestay
• Our Team & Company
• Our Customers & Reviews

Copyright © 2023 Local Vietnam

Start typing and press enter to search

Free ebook vietnam travel guide​.

Maika Tours uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to our use of cookies. More details can be found in our terms and conditions .

• +84 909 343 760
• Open Facebook account in a new tab.
• Open Instagram account in a new tab.
• Open Youtube account in a new tab.
• Open Tripadvisor account in a new tab.

Full-Day Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Full-Day Tour

Private Groups

Kid-Friendly

On this guided tour you’ll experience Vietnam’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and lifestyles with a local guide . We’ll venture to ‘every corner’ of Ho Chi Minh City, soaking up the city’s iconic French colonial architecture and its bustling local markets .

This Tour Includes Visits To...

The City's Biggest Flower Market

The Beautiful Thien Hau Temple

Secret Weapon Cellar

The War Remnants Museum

Notre-Dame Cathedral

General Post Office

Reunification Palace

CIA Building Story

Click the Tabs to See More

Tour details.

From $55 per person.

• 1 person $159
• 2 people $95 per person
• 3 people $79 per person
• 4 people $70 per person
• 5 people $65 per person
• 6-8 people $60 per person
• 9+ people $55 per person

Please note – Children up to 3 years old are free of charge, while children 3-11 years old will be required to pay 75% of the adult rate. Please see our FAQs page for further pricing details.

We operate all year round, except for Vietnamese New Year, which runs from January 20th-24th, 2023

Trip specifications

Tour is recommended to start at 8:00 am, finish around 5:00 pm. However, this is a private tour so we can be flexible to meet your interests.

Pick-up & drop-off

We will collect and return you to any hotel located within Ho Chi Minh City.

If you are staying out of the city we can collect you for an extra charge depending on the distance. Please get in touch for prices.

• All Entrance Fees
• Fully Air-Conditioned Vehicle
• Two Bottles of Water
• English Speaking Guide
• Full Lunch – please note we can cater to any dietary requirements just be sure to get in touch beforehand.

Not included

• Booking fees

What to bring

• Insect Repellent
• Light Jacket

What to wear

Please be sensitive to the local customs and ensure you dress respectfully

Loose, free-flowing clothing is preferred given we will be visiting local communities. Knees and shoulders should be covered at all times.

We start our great day by heading for a beautiful stroll through the pretty Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, the biggest in Ho Chi Minh City! You’ll get to view the daily life of the city’s local traders as you are dazzled by the scents and a kaleidoscope of colours while we navigate through the narrow winding streets of the market before we explore the Saigon Chinatown.

Gaze At Cholon – Chinatown Saigon

Cholon, which directly translates to “Big Market”, was first established in the late 1700s when a large number of Hoa, an ethnic Chinese minority residing in Vietnam. Thien Hau is widely considered the most beautiful temple in the area and really worth paying a visit! After visiting this legendary temple, we will head to Secret Weapon Cellar.

Secret Saigon Underground

The NLF dug numerous secret cellars in the heart of Saigon to store weapons and explosives brought from rural bases such as Cu Chi for fighting against the South Government, particularly the 1968 Tet Offensive. Early in 1967 the house’s owner, Trần Văn Lai, dug two cellars underneath the house to store pistols, rifles, grenades and over 350kg of TNT were transported there in hollowed-out boxes and specially-adapted wickerwork baskets and plant pots. After visiting this historic place, we will head to the memorial of Thich Quang Duc who shocked the world by burning himself to death in 1963.

Learn From Different Perspectives During The Vietnam War!

Next, we will head back to the city centre to visit the fascinating War Remnants Museum. This will be an emotionally hard-hitting experience given the graphic content of the museum. Nevertheless, it will be a valuable stop for anybody wishing to learn more about different perspectives surrounding the Vietnam War and its continuing effects today.

Stop For A Tasty Local Lunch

After the museum, we’ll take a well-earned rest and enjoy a tasty Vietnamese set-menu lunch at an authentic restaurant. After we’ve fueled up on these delicious local dishes, it’s off to our first stop of the afternoon which will be the Reunification Palace. Here you’ll learn all about its important place in Vietnamese history.

An Afternoon Of Amazing Architecture

Our next stop will be the famous Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office. Your knowledgeable guide will explain all the history behind these two incredible buildings. Your guide will show you the historic CIA building where one of the last U.S Helicopters flew out of Saigon in 1975. Next, we’ll walk you to visit more HCMC highlights including the Opera House, Hotel Continental, Rex Hotel and City Hall as well as viewing the mighty Bitexco.

Our Final Stop!

In order to wrap up a wonderful day, we recommend you to come up to Rex Hotel rooftop for the legendary “Five O’Clock Follies” cocktail or simply have a cup of coffee or tea at the Coffee Apartment. After the last stop, we will get you safely back to your hotel in the comfort of our private vehicle. Don’t forget to give a hug to your lovely guide and ask for recommendations from our local expert!

See What Our Guests are Saying

Nice experience, very customer-oriented company fast and easy booking, very fast reaction. Mr. Bien a well-prepared guide and enthusiastic. You should try this experience.

JonnoMelbourne

I now refer my friends, family and colleagues, as well as book all of my tours, accommodation and flights with Maika because I feel very lucky to have finally found an organisation in Asia that gives me the confidence to do so.

The tour was very well organized, and the guide spoke very good English. We got to see and experience so many things: Besides visiting a pagoda and Buddha statue, we also went on a boat ride (with a stop to enjoy a coconut drink) and visited local businesses producing rice paper, conical hats and mats. We had fresh fruit and tea for a snack and Pho soup for lunch which was delicious! We had such a good day and would highly recommend this tour!

We went on this tour, two families of four, with children aged 9-12 years old. We were really happy with it and highly recommend. Lin was our guide and she was fantastic, would really do a trip with her again. It was nice to do this privately and easy to adjust with Lin if needed. Maika helped us book the accommodation in Can Tho which we really appreciated. Would highly recommend and for sure do again.

PaulSoltheran

You did a great job looking after all of our family of 7. The kids enjoyed all the tours and especially the Mekong cruise …as did we……because the kids were so happy we got to enjoy some time to ourselves too. I would recommend Maika Tours if your thinking of visiting Vietnam!

You May Also Like...

Coastal drive from hue to hoi an, hue countryside motorbike tour, ba na hill and golden hands bridge experience.

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience and security.

Ho Chi Minh Unique Local Experiences

Unveiling Unique Stories

Experience Local Life On Two wheels

Hop On The Back of Our Motorbikes

Unique Street Food Tour

Lead By Expert Female Guide

Ho Chi Minh Unique Experiences

Why choose us.

• Our slogan is "SATISFACTION - We Live It. You'll Love It".
• We are offering a money-back guarantee if guests don't enjoy our experiences.
• Specialized: We are locals who are licensed Tour Guides with knowledge, passion, and personal perspective.
• An experience like a local: Something guests can’t find anywhere else.
• Connect: Warmly welcome guests, turning strangers into friends.
• Accident insurance included with every single tour.

AS RECOMMENDED

Choose a Best Tour

Private Saigon’s History Tour & Adventurous Sightseeing By Scooter

Overview Hop on the back of our motorbikes like the locals. We will take you through various districts to witness the city's shift from downtown areas to vibrant local neighborhoods,…

• 224 Reviews on Tripadvisor

Thirteen Authentic Street Food Tastings Tour By Walking In Ho Chi Minh City

Overview If Saigon is known for one thing, it's the fantastic food—and maybe its swarms of buzzing motorbikes. If you're wary of being behind scooters in this bustling city, this…

• 87 Reviews on Tripadvisor

The Ultimate Street Food Tour With Zero Tourists Inside By Scooter Ho Chi Minh City

Overview Join me for a unique Saigon evening street food adventure, where we'll take you on a culinary journey off the beaten path to dive into the heart of authentic…

• 34 Reviews on Tripadvisor

What Our Customers Say

Tripadvisor reviews.

It's wonderful to hear that our valued customers are providing us with glowing reviews! Their positive feedback is a testament to the quality and uniqueness of our tours. Providing unforgettable experiences and quality services not only delights our customers but also helps them gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destinations they visit. Our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and fostering personal growth and knowledge among your guests is commendable. We Keep up the fantastic work, and continue delighting our customers with our outstanding tours!

I booked the Saigon sightseeing tour for the first morning after we landed in Vietnam! I Because we had limited time in Ho Chi Minh City I wanted to get an idea of where to go, what to eat and have a chance to ask someone local some questions. I…

We had a great time on this tour, you couldn't help going around with a smile on your face. It was great to experience Saigon traffic from the back of a scooter instead of watching it from the side of a road. We felt very safe the whole time. The…

One of the best tours I have ever done and a great way to see the city! The guides made us feel safe at all times on the scooters. The tour was very interesting and the guides were very friendly!

It's a surprisingly enjoyable motorbike tour. Emmie and Lily took us to a few tourist sites and provided some good historic stories. They took our photos and shared with us which was convenient. We really enjoyed our tour.

I looked Ben up after meeting him on my first trip to Vietnam in 2022, when he took my friend and I on a foodie tour. This time I was with my mum, two aunties and sister-in-law. Ben and his mates escorted us around the city to enjoy several local…

Urii was such a great guide. We had the best time exploring Saigon! Don’t be scared of the roads! Highly recommend - fun and very safe.

I book evening street food tour for some of turist from my group and afterwards got feedback that it was one of tne best experiance trooughout whole 18-days trip around Vietnam! They feel safe on the bikes and have great time with super positive and profesional guides. This tour gives…

Urii was a great guide and scooter driver ! It was a great experience. Definitely a must do while in Ho Chi Minh to see the city from a local perspective

Amazing tour. Wonderful team who were really knowledgeable, chatty and made some very nervous moped passengers very comfortable. The food was without exception amazing at all the places we visited

We had an exceptionally delightful experience with the event. The level of enjoyment and excitement surpassed our expectation. We would wholeheartedly recommend this group to others. Their professionalism, friendliness and courtesy were truly outstanding.

Sherpa68038807220

Very nice tour with amazing guides. Emmie and the team (Lily, Bob and Lin) were really nice and knowledgeable. We visited few places and learnt a bit more about Vietnam history. Felt safe at all times.

Testimonial Clips

Saigon Local Tour - Different Taste of Saigon Travel with Locals

• Search for:
• Ho Chi Minh City Tours
• Mekong Delta Tours
• Cooking Class
• Vespa Tours
• Luxury Golf Tours
• Phu My Shore Excursions
• Dalat Tours
• Vung Tau Tours
• Mui Ne Tours
• Nha Trang Tours
• Nam Cat Tien National Park Tours
• Central Highland Tours
• South Vietnam Tours
• Travel Services

Ho Chi Minh City Tours - Immerse Yourself in the Vibrant Soul

Ho chi minh attractions - things to do & see in saigon.

Considered as “The Pearl of the Far-East”, Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) owns itself not only the magnificent beauty of a metropolis but also simple but surprising things waiting to be explored. Home to many appealing places to visit, the mix of past and present Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City tour promises you a flawless travel time in Vietnam.

 Make the most of the cultural show in Ho Chi Minh City

Best time to visit ho chi minh city & southern vietnam.

Local people in Saigon often dub the weather as “a teenager with mood swings” just because of how unpredictable it is. Let’s imagine on a sunny Sunday, you dress fancy, put on some nice make-up to go out with us and delve into the ecstatic tours in Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City Tours & Day Trips – Saigon Local Tour

If you are setting up a vacation, you definitely should set foot in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), which is one of the most hustle and bustle cities in Southeast Asia Vietnam. This charming city has an irrepressible soul and entrepreneurial energy. Moreover, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) has acquired a reputation for a wide range of things including local cuisines, stunning landscapes and a wealth of history, culture through the time. Certainly, your trip would not be complete without a visit to Saigon mostly because this enchanting city will develop a sense of enjoyment. To be more precise, from in the early part of the morning until midnight, you will have ample opportunity to immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere and a variety of amazing things in some popular attractions such as Bitexco Financial Tower, Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, Binh Tay Market, and Cat Tien National Park. It is apparent that Saigon in all of the time always offers you unforgettable things to do, see and taste. This is the reason why Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) has become an ideal destination for visitors to discover the authentic insight into the local way of life, get a deeper understanding of the historical war stories and capture a great shot of the beautiful city. Let Saigon Local Tour awake your travel sense!

Happy 18th Anniversary of Saigon Local Tour

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

CUSTOMIZED TRIPS

EXCELLENT REVIEWS 

HAPPY GUESTS

Celebrating a momentous milestone, Saigon Local Tour proudly marks 18 years of weaving enchanting tales across the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City and the picturesque landscapes of Southern Vietnam. Our heartfelt gratitude extends to our cherished partners and intrepid travelers, the driving force behind the heartbeat of our extraordinary journey.

Easy Saigon Vietnam Trips Planning

• Speak 1-1 with a dedicated Vietnam Travel Expert
• Free Inquiry - Promptly Response - Consistent service - Seamless itineraries
• We share commitment to quality & the delivery of authentic Saigon tour packages

Local Expert Customizing

• Over 18 years of experience in tailoring Ho Chi Minh City tour packages
• Hand-picked accommodations with thorough scouts
• Your time, your pace - No limited change, without charge

Authentic Tours from Ho Chi Minh City

• We want you to go home with amazing stories about your Vietnam trips
• Unlock the real Vietnam, local insights
• Visit local families, rural farmers, and experience local life

Outstanding Reviews

• Tripadvisor Hall of Fame for eight years in row (2015 to 2023)
• Thousands of customers chose us each year including Celebrities, M.I.C.Es, TV Shows

We are Proud of A Leading Saigon Tour Package

Saigon Local Tour delivers discerning travelers in-style and in-depth Ho Chi Minh City day tours as well as Vietnam tour packages. Our services, expertise, and reputation are exactly what you need for your fascinating vacations.

We are True Locals

People of Saigon Local Tour are locals that were born and grew up in Ho Chi Minh City. We consider travel the most meaningful and wonderful way to share the overwhelming love for our hometown with others. From travel consultants, bloggers, tour guides to drivers, you will completely feel we are not working merely for being paid. We are doing profoundly for our pride of hosts welcoming our honor guess

We exceed expectation

Your satisfaction and happiness from sending us an inquiry to receiving our farewell after your trip is the utmost part of everything we work. Our services are created to get that right and ensure that your experiences are as perfect as it can be possible.

You are unique and so is your journey

"Your trip is absolutely personal, bespoke, and stress-free" is our strong commitment to you. We hear from you and care about what matters to you the most. All is done to handcraft a trip that is completely perfect for you and we belive that you will love it. From a private visit to a vibrant floating market to impressive discovery at the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels. Whatever you need, we can make it for you.

Another Destination, Another Experience

No effort has been spared to bring you the most distinctive and authentic Ho Chi Minh City tours. We give you the promise of no dogdy detours and no commission-based shopping stops. We wish you will come back home with a ton of interesting stories to tell and unforgettable memories to remember.

Ho Chi Minh City Day Tours & Trips by Theme

Dubbed “a city never sleeps”, Ho Chi Minh City is a place that is suitable for all visitors, a place that satisfies the needs of entertainment as well as a passion for discovering historical sites, places that still exist after historical wars.

Away from the city to immerse yourself in the vast river nature, this area will surely surprise you with the river life of the people, their daily life, and activities associated with the river from birth to adulthood.

The Southern part of Vietnam is the most mesmerizing land ever. The authentic things create flawless art, let the tour itineraries in South Vietnam below awaken your sense of travel. Go for it!

Saigon Vietnam Tours

From the point of departure - Ho Chi Minh City, visitors have the opportunity to join tours to various destinations throughout Vietnam, for both those who enjoy trekking in the mountains to scuba diving, this tour is sure to fulfill all your wishes.

Top-Picked Ho Chi Minh City Tours

Nam Cat Tien National Park Discovery – 3 Days

Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh City - Nam Cat Tien National Park - Ho Chi Minh City

Tour Highlights

• Discover the diverse wildlife and endangered species of Nam Cat Tien National Park.
• Experience the magic of a two-hour night cruise into the jungle, where you can observe wild animals.
• Bike through the forest to capture the beauty of the enchanting Heaven Waterfall and explore the botanical garden.
• Embark on a trekking adventure to the Crocodile Lake, encountering diverse bird species and soaking in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

Ho Chi Minh City Tour & Home-hosted Meal – 2 Days

Tour Route: War Remnants Museum - Saigon Opera House - Central Post Office - ChoLon - Thien Hau Temple

• Explore busy streets
• Get a personal introduction to Ho Chi Minh City attractions
• Enjoy the lively atmosphere of a local market
• Learn the secrets of Vietnamese cuisine
• Learn to prepare famous local recipes
• Enjoy the home-hosted meal
• Get great recipes and surprise guests back home

Ho Chi Minh City To Cu Chi Tunnels Tour – 1 Day

Tour Route: Reunification Palace – War Remnants Museum – Notre Dame Cathedral & Saigon Old Post Office – Ben Thanh Market – Cu Chi Tunnels

• Have a chance to get the beautiful shots of Ho Chi Minh City
• Visit the historical relics in Ho Chi Minh City
• Experience the most bustling market in Southern Vietnam: Ben Thanh Market
• Explore Cu Chi Tunnel - one of the most famous battlegrounds in the world
• Feast on delicious Southern Vietnamese cuisine

Discover Mekong Delta & Cai Be Town – 1 Day

Tour Route: Cai Be Town - Tan An Town - Mekong Delta

• Discover the lively Mekong Delta and Cai Be Town in a single day.
• Immerse in local culture as you cruise the scenic rivers and witness the bustling town.
• Enjoy a serene rowing boat ride through shady canals, observing traditional houses and interacting with farmers.
• Savor a delicious lunch and listen to traditional folk music while exploring orchards and fruit plantations.
• Conclude your day with a cruise back to Vinh Long and transfer to Ho Chi Minh City.

Mekong Delta – Phu Quoc Tour from Saigon – 5 Days

Tour Route:  Saigon - Mekong Delta Area - Phu Quoc - Saigon

• Cruise along the Mekong Delta, visit Unicorn Island, and experience the local village life.
• Explore the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market, the largest market in the Mekong Delta.
• Fly to Phu Quoc and enjoy the beautiful beaches, visit fishing ports, and discover local attractions.
• Experience snorkeling and fishing on the islets of Phu Quoc, surrounded by crystal-clear waters.
• Relax on the beach and indulge in the delicious seafood of Phu Quoc before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.

Glimpse of Mekong Delta – 2 Days

Tour Route: Saigon - My Tho - Ben Tre - Can Tho - Saigon

• Explore My Tho and Ben Tre, witnessing the charming stilt houses and fruit plantations on a boat ride along the river.
• Visit Tortoise Island, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and experience the authentic rural lifestyle.
• Cruise through the small channels to Cai Rang Floating Market, immersing yourself in the bustling market atmosphere.
• Discover a rice noodle making village and savor delicious rice noodles for breakfast.
• Interact with locals, try your hand at rowing a boat, and enjoy a local lunch before returning to Saigon.

South Vietnam Tours From Ho CHi Minh City

Amazing Vietnam Tour – 9 Days

Tour Route: Hanoi - Halong - Ninh Binh - Hoi An - Ho Chi Minh City

• Explore Hanoi's historic sites, vibrant streets, and serene lakes for an introduction to the city's charm.
• Sail amidst Ha Long Bay's limestone formations, kayak, and unwind on a private island.
• Cycle through rural landscapes, experience local hospitality during a homestay, and discover Ninh Binh's natural beauty.
• Wander Hoi An's ancient alleys, visit tailor shops, and enjoy its bustling nightlife.
• Try crab fishing, take a basket boat tour, and join a cooking class to master Vietnamese cuisine.

Ho Chi Minh City – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho – 6 Days

Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho – Ho Chi Minh City

• Visit to historical sites like Reunification Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral.
• Explore the intricate Cu Chi Tunnels, a fascinating underground network used during the Vietnam War.
• Cruise along Mekong Delta's waterways, enjoy fruit orchards,
• Witness local life at the bustling Cai Rang Floating Market.

Vietnam Discovery Tour from South to North – 10 Days

Tour Route: Ho Chi Minh City - Can Tho - Da Nang - Quang Nam - Hanoi - Halong Bay - Hanoi

• Immerse in the local life of Cai Be Town, and explore the tropical beauty of Tan Phong Islet
• Descend into Cu Chi Tunnels, and delve into the underground world of Viet Cong fighters
• Wander ancient streets, create tailor-made fashion at Ann Tailor, and master local culinary secrets during a cooking class
• Discover Hanoi's cultural treasures and embark on a breathtaking cruise through Ha Long Bay

Saigon – Mekong – Nam Cat Tien National Park Tour – 7 Days

Tour Route: Saigon - Cai Be - Sa Dec - Vinh Long - Can Tho - Saigon - Nam Cat Tien National Park - Saigon

• Cruise through vibrant floating markets and charming villages.
• Explore diverse forests, spot wildlife, and engage in night jungle experiences.
• Experience local life in Sa Dec, witness traditional practices, and visit ancient houses.
• Enjoy sunrise views over lakes, lush orchards, and serene waterways.
• Take part in jeep rides, boat trips, and guided treks through picturesque surroundings.

Ho Chi Minh City Tour Reviews

Mesmerizing & Unforgettable Ho Chi Minh City Tour

"At first, making the initial reservation for our tours was simple because of easy mail correspondence. The tour guide always arrived on time in a small van & a friendly driver. Thanks to his excellent English skills, we're heard fabulous commentary about the tourist sites we visited. Besides, we enjoyed the personal attention and service while cruising along the Mekong Delta. It made our vacation in Vietnam absolutely pleasure and enjoyable. Special thanks to Ms. Jeanny and I will highly recommend Saigon Local Tour to all my friends!"

Anna Dorris and Daniel James

Ms. Lynn & Ms. Jodi are superstars of Saigon Local Tour!

"From the moment I started planning my first trip to Vietnam about 6 months ago to our visit to Ho Chi Minh City last week, our tour was faultless. Saigon Local Tour offers us great things, which all made our Saigon experience the best. Everything exceeds our expectation. I love taking photographs and I had a lot of chance to do it in Mekong Delta. I could recommend for those who are planning Ho Chi Minh City Tours and do not know what you should do first, contact Saigon Local Tour and they will do the rest!"

Emily Wilson & Her Friend

Unlocking Hidden Treasures of Ho Chi Minh City with Saigon Local Tour

"Our Vietnam trip was an extraordinary adventure, made possible by the exceptional services of Saigon Local Tour. From start to finish, every moment exceeded our expectations. The highlight was our captivating journey to the Cu Chi Tunnels, where Saigon Local Tour curated an unforgettable experience. If you're seeking an unparalleled adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than Saigon Local Tour for an unforgettable journey."

Michael Brown & His Family

A Journey Beyond Expectations in Ho Chi Minh City

Prepare to be amazed! Saigon Local Tour not only met but exceeded all our expectations during our incredible journey through Ho Chi Minh City. Their meticulous attention to detail and extensive knowledge elevated our experience to new heights, leaving us in awe at every turn. For an extraordinary and unforgettable adventure in Ho Chi Minh City, look no further than Saigon Local Tour.

Rachel Johnson

Saigon Travel Blog

Heritage Train Route Connecting Hue to Da Nang Officially Launched

The unveiling of a remarkable addition to its services by the Vietnam Railways Corporation has set the stage for an extraordinary journey from Hue to Da Nang. Beginning its operations on March 26th, the “Connecting Central Heritage” train service has emerged as a beacon of fascination for eager travelers seeking [...]

[News] Vietnam Among World’s Safest Places for Solo Female Travel by Time Out

Time Out, a renowned British magazine, has recently named Vietnam as one of the top nine safest destinations worldwide for solo female travelers. This recognition positions Vietnam as the sole representative from Southeast Asia on this esteemed list. The magazine highlights Vietnam’s reputation for safety, stemming from its political stability [...]

Night Tour To Cu Chi Tunnels Officially Operates

The Cu Chi Tunnels, celebrated as Vietnam’s remarkable “underground city,” have now unveiled an intriguing nocturnal experience, inviting travelers to uncover the secrets of its wartime past under the cover of darkness. Recently announced by the Management Board of Cu Chi Tunnels Historical Relic Area, the eagerly anticipated Cu Chi [...]

Information in saigon trips

People and life in saigon, transportation in saigon, traffic in saigon, festivals & events in saigon, climate in saigon.

• Health & Safety in Hanoi

Shopping in Saigon

Wearing in saigon.

Saigon people are known as friendly and generous people. The enthusiasm and hospitality of them to travelers are no doubt, so travelers who come to tour Saigon will be impressed by the people here. Especially, the life of Saigon is bustling and full of colorful, you can wait until 12:00 pm and realize that Saigon is still awake with lots of street foods, music, and stream of people going around. 

As a reputable Saigon tour agency, Saigon Local Tour will introduce regular transportation that local people use.

• Bicycle : Usually use for short distances or when you want to enjoin the moment of street in Ho Chi Minh city. 
• Motobike: Is the most popular vehicle of Vietnam people, easy to move in the alleys of Hanoi.
• Car: Vehicle suitable for tourists, avoiding the inclement weather and dust of Hanoi city.  
• Bus: Cheap transportation for tourists, you need to look for suitable routes. Moving by bus can lose more time than motorbike and car for your Saigon tour. It is also crowded sometimes so you need to be careful with your package. 

Vietnam's population density is higher than European countries, so Tourists traveling to Vietnam can be overwhelmed by the number of vehicles moving on the road. Especially, the big cities of Vietnam such as Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh,… often has serious traffic jams. To have the best day trips from Saigon, visitors need to note a few things when participating in Vietnamese traffic:

• Avoiding the rush-hour traffic (7:30 am - 9:00 am and 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm)
• Don't be afraid when pasting by the road, just be careful and drivers will reduce speed.
• Flexible and lean the way moving with the same speech as others.
• Motobike is easy to move than the car in the street of Saigon.

Tet Holiday:

Tet holiday is the biggest holiday for Vietnamese people. Travelers can enjoy the festive atmosphere of Tet from January to February. At this time, people are busy and eager to prepare for the Tet holiday. The traditional markets are full colors of flowers, with the scarlet color of Tet decorations. The flow of people also seems to be more crowded. Banh Chung dishes, cardinal red, peach blossom branch, and Kumquat Trees are sold everywhere. One more attraction for travelers who come to tours from Saigon. If you come to Vietnam for the official Tet holiday (1/1- 4/1 in the Lunar calendar), you will see empty streets with no restaurants or markets.

Mid-Autumn Festival:

Mid-Autumn Festival is an ordinary holiday in East Asian and Southeast Asian countries. This holiday is beginning from different ancient stories: “Hang Nga and Hau Nghe”, “King Duong Minh Hoang went to the moon” and the story of ”Uncle Cuoi” of Vietnam. Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam is usually known for its Lion dance tradition and mid-autumn festival lanterns. This holiday is expected from children in Vietnam, hoping to receive a lot of confectionery. Especially, Trung Thu cake only appears at Mid-Autumn Festival, and Saigon people will enjoy this delicious food with a few cups of tea on the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Coming to Saigon day tours and discovering. 

Although Chrismas is not a traditional festival in Vietnam, International integration has brought this festival coming up to Vietnam. A large number of young Saigon people wait for the Christmas holiday, as the moment to hang out with friends and family. 

Saigon has 4 seasons in a year that are not as hot and sultry as the North or Central region. The temperature in Saigon fluctuates around 27 degrees Celsius, on hot days the peak can reach 40 degrees Celsius.

Saigon weather is divided into two main seasons, the dry season and the rainy season. In particular, the rainy season lasts from May to November, with sudden rains so you need to bring suitable clothes.

Healthy & Safety in Saigon

Saigon Local Tour makes each precaution to make sure the journeys are safe, enjoyable, and fun for everyone. The company takes the health and safety of its visitors carefully in each day tours, private tours,.. from Hano i. We advise all passengers to get the most recent information prior to boarding from their local government or regional travel guide agency.

But if you want to know more about Safety in Saigon, we think that you need more attention to your luggage and personal belongings. Because this city usually has accidents related to theft.

In a developing country like Vietnam, small markets appear around on streets and become the most popular buying and selling among Vietnamese people. You can find the cheapest and the most familiar things there, from light meals, clothes,... to sundry things. If you want to experience a tour in Saigon , you can spend your time enjoying the life of local Hanoians in the market.

With the rapid development of the economy, Shopping mall centers are built in a quick way. If you want shopping with full of entertainment facilities such as the movie theater, High-end fashion shops, restaurants,... Mall Shop is the best choice for your Saigon tour.

You can see a lot of small shops on Hanoi’s streets. With many local brands of clothes, traditional foods, fast foods, coffee, souvenir,... But sometimes there are too many things to discover, so you can find a Saigon tour guide to help you.

Street vendors:

Shopping around the markets and small shops will be more interesting if street vendors come and offer special things in Saigon. Street vendors can make you when you walking around the streets in Saigon, you will suddenly.

If you travel to Saigon during the rainy season( from May to November), you will need to bring an umbrella or a raincoat with sudden rains in Saigon. Besides it, for visitors coming to Vietnam, costumes when visiting spiritual places of Asians such as temples, pagodas, and tombs,... need to be polite and not too revealing.

The weather in Saigon is changing so fast, although the day is hot and sunny, the night is sometimes refreshing. Therefore, in your luggage, you should also have 1-2 thin coats to prevent cold weather or protect your skin from the hot sun with sunglasses and sunscreen during the dry season. 

Username or email address  *

Password  *

Remember me Log in

Lost your password?

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide

Last Updated: January 16, 2024

Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon, though all the locals still call it that) is the largest (and most chaotic city) in Vietnam . Motorbikes, bicycles, cars, and rickshaws go wherever they please, and lots of street stands and markets spill into the traffic lanes. It’s a city with a billion things happening at once.

It’s also one of the most popular destinations in the country and has recently evolved into a hotspot for digital nomads thanks to its cheap cost of living.

The city has a lot to offer: wonderful shops, fantastic nightlife, delicious food, and plenty of historic sites. Additionally, you’ll find some interesting (and propaganda-heavy) museums like the War Remnants Museum as well as the famous Cu Chi Tunnels, secret tunnels used by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. It’s my second favorite city in Vietnam (after Hoi An) and worth spending a few days visiting.

This travel guide to Ho Chi Minh can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this hectic metropolis!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Ho Chi Minh

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Ho Chi Minh City

1. Admire the Notre Dame Cathedral

The Notre Dame Cathedral is an imposing red brick building built between 1877 and 1883 by the French. At nearly 58 meters (190 feet), the two towers in the front of the cathedral rise above visitors and the neon-lit statue of the Virgin Mary. The cathedral still functions as a religious site and a major tourist destination, especially after gaining international recognition for a supposed sighting of a teardrop falling from the Virgin Mary statue in 2005. ( Note : The Notre Dame Cathedral is temporarily closed for renovations until 2023.

2. See the Cao Dai Holy See Temple

The Cao Dai religion (known as Caodaism) is relatively new (it’s less than 100 years old). It combines the teachings of several religions, including Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism. This Cao Dai temple is the main temple for the religion and is hugely ornate and colorful, with a giant globe behind the main altar displaying the religion’s “divine eye” symbol. Entrance is free but there are a few rules to follow when visiting. You will need to enter through the side door instead of the main door and be sure to keep your shoes outside. Men will need to use the door on the right side and women on the left. Most people combine a trip to the temple with the Cu Chi Tunnels excursion.

3. Crawl through the Cu Chi Tunnels

Here you can crawl through the extensive network of narrow tunnels used by the Viet Cong in the 1960s to fight American soldiers during the Vietnam War. Tours involve a walk-through of the tunnels (over 100 meters of tunnels are open to visitors) which give you a sense of how the Vietnamese were able to defend their country for so long against a stronger force. It’s a sobering experience and not one for anyone claustrophobic. Tours cost around 350,000 VND.

4. Ascend the Saigon Skydeck

For a 360-degree panorama of the city, head to the Saigon Skydeck, one of the tallest buildings in the country. The observation deck is on the 49th floor of the Bitexco Financial Tower and offers amazing views. Admission costs 200,000 VND and includes a bottle of water. Just check the weather forecast ahead of time. You can also go at night to see the city lit up. Open daily from 9:30am-9:30pm.

5. Take a food tour

Other things to see and do in ho chi minh city, 1. get lost in chinatown.

Chinatown is a hive of activity and a maze of temples, restaurants, jade ornaments, and medicine shops. Aside from the sprawling Binh Tay Market, you’ll find some fascinating temples in the area including the Chinese Chua Quan Am Temple and Cha Tam, a Catholic cathedral. It’s the biggest Chinatown in the country (there are around 500,000 Chinese people living in the city alone).

2. Visit the Ho Chi Minh City Museum

At one point or another, this city museum has been a Governor’s Palace, a committee building, and a Revolutionary Museum. Today, you’ll find a collection of weaponry and memorabilia from the country’s revolutionary struggle as well as captured U.S. fighter planes and tanks from the Vietnam War. Located in the former Gia Long Palace, there are some permanent exhibitions along with special exhibitions that rotate on a regular basis (check the website for details; it has an English version). Admission costs 30,000 VND plus 20,000 VND if you want to take photos.

3. See the Emperor Jade Pagoda

This temple was built in 1909 to honor the supreme Taoist god, Emperor Jade. It’s one of the most impressive pagodas in Vietnam. It’s also referred to as the Tortoise Pagoda and the pond on site is filled with turtles. The building is filled with intricate woodcarvings and statues of divinities and heroes, including Emperor Jade himself. The roof is also covered in detailed tile work showing characters from Buddhist and Taoist legends.

4. Shop at the Ben Thanh Market

Though this market in District 1 is crowded and rife with pickpockets, it is the ideal place to pick up some handicrafts, bargain souvenirs, and try some traditional (and inexpensive) Vietnamese food. It’s the largest market in Vietnam, so get lost in the chaos and enjoy it all. Don’t be afraid to negotiate the price since you will be given the “tourist price” on items here. Just keep your wallet secure and out of reach as you wander.

5. Escape to Can Gio Island

Also known as Monkey Island, Can Gio Island is popular with tourists and locals looking to escape the chaos of the city. The beaches here aren’t mind-blowing like they are in Thailand, but it’s a cool place to relax and is one of Vietnam’s better islands. The Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve (which is where the island is located) is a recognized UNESCO site and the island’s monkey sanctuary and mangroves are perfect for wildlife fans. It’s about a two-hour drive to get here and you can take the #75 bus from 23/9 Park. If you don’t feel like navigating the island by yourself, there are tours available for purchase in District 1 that provide transportation. Prices range from 590,000-1,170,000 VND for full-day tours.

6. Unwind in Twenty-Three September Park

Formerly the location of the Saigon Railway Station, this park was built in its place after the station was demolished. In the early morning and just after the work day is done, this park is packed with people exercising and playing games. Watch a Tai Chi class, play a game of badminton, or chat with one of the many students who hang out in the area. There is a large underground entertainment complex just below the park and plenty to do nearby. Bring a book and a snack and enjoy the local pace of life.

7. Visit Ba Thien Hau Temple

Located in Chinatown, the Ba Thien Hau Temple is a Buddhist temple that was built in 1706 for the Chinese sea goddess, Mazu. It’s believed she flies around on a cloud or a mat, rescuing people at sea. The outside of the temple doesn’t look like much but the inside is filled with porcelain figures and the roof is covered in colorful dioramas. On March 23rd of the lunar calendar, you can expect to see celebrations in the form of parades and dancing honoring Lady Thien Hau’s birthday (Mazu).

8. Tour the War Remnants Museum

This museum has a very “pro-communist, down-with-the-capitalists” bend to it but is nevertheless very interesting. Focused on the Vietnam War, which killed between 1,500,000-3,500,000 people, the museum’s best exhibit is the collection of bombs, tanks, planes, and war machinery, including an American F-5A fighter jet at the front entrance. The entrance fee is 40,000 VND.

9. Take a cooking class

For the best souvenir, take a cooking class. It’s a great way to learn new skills, try new dishes, and explore the country’s food culture and history. You can usually combine your cooking class with a market tour as well, allowing you to shop for your own, fresh ingredients before you cook. Tours vary but a quality tour with a local chef usually starts around 800,000 VND.

10. Catch a show at the Opera House

The Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best-preserved examples of French colonial architecture in the country (Vietnam was annexed by France and under French control for the better part of a century). It was built in 1897 for the opera but now hosts lots of different performances, including ballet, a bamboo circus performance, and Vietnamese traditional dances and plays. Check the website or stop by the front gate to see what’s on during your visit.

Ho Chi Minh Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Hostels start from 90,000 VND for a room with 8-10 people and 140,000 VND for a bed in a smaller dorm with 4-6 beds. Most hostels offer free Wi-Fi and free breakfast. Private rooms start at around 375,000 VND for a double room, but they average closer to 470,000 VND.

Budget hotel prices – Two-star budget hotel starts at around 170,000 VND, but for something a little nicer and less bare bones, 300,000-650,000 VND per night is the average. Expect standard amenities like free Wi-Fi, AC, and TV.

Airbnb is also available, with private rooms starting from about 350,000 VND. An entire home/apartment starts at around 800,000 VND. Expect prices to double if you don’t book early.

Food – Vietnamese cuisine is fresh, flavorful, and uses a lot of herbs and vegetables. Rice and noodle dishes are common, as are various soups such as the iconic pho (a beef noodle soup). Wonton soup, meat curry, fresh French bread (known as bahn me , and grilled fish are also really popular.

If you’re looking to eat at the delicious street stalls (and you should because it’s the best), expect to pay between 25,000-40,000 VND for a meal, with bahn mi’s on the lower ends and noodles and soups on the higher end.

Sit-down restaurants serving Vietnamese food cost around 70,000 VND per meal.

For fast food, expect to pay around 100,000 VND for a combo meal while a large pizza is around 150,000-200,000 VND. If you want Western food, expect to spend 200,000 VBD minimum.

If you want to splash out and have a nice meal (think semi-fine dining), a three-course meal with a drink costs around 400,000 VND.

Beer costs around 24,000 VND (60,000 VND if you want a craft beer) while a latte or cappuccino is 50,000 VND. Bottled water is around 7,000 VND. Coffee with milk (ca phe sua da) from a street vendor will cost 20,000 VND. Wine and cocktails start at 150,000 VND.

I don’t recommend cooking your meals here since there is plenty of delicious street food to eat at very cheap prices. You won’t make it as good as they do and the food is too delicious to miss. It really won’t be much cheaper either.

Backpacking Ho Chi Minh City Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 515,000 VND per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat street food for all your meals, limit your drinking, take public transportation to get around, and do mostly cheap activities like museum visits. If you plan on drinking, add another 25,000-50,000 VND to your daily budget.

On a mid-range budget of 1,125,000 VND per day, you can stay in a private Airbnb or private hostel room, eat out at some restaurants, drink more, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels.

On a “luxury” budget of 2,350,000 VND or more, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, hire a private guide or driver, drink as much as you want, and do whatever tours you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in VND.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

You don’t need to do much to save money in Ho Chi Minh City as it’s super inexpensive to visit. If you stick to local cuisine, cheap guesthouses, and public transportation, you’ll be hard pressed to spend a lot of money. Nevertheless, here are some additional ways you can cut down your costs:

• Only take metered taxis – Make sure the taxi drivers turn on their meters, otherwise, drivers can rip you off. Better yet, skip them and walk or take the bus as taxi prices add up fast!
• Ask your hostel staff – Before you leave the hostel, ask them to estimate how much what you want to do should cost. How much should a ride to the museum cost? How much should you pay to have a custom dress or suit made? They will be able to give you bargaining guidelines so you don’t get ripped off.
• Eat street food – Street food in Ho Chi Minh City is inexpensive and delicious. Be sure to try a banh mi , a Vietnamese sandwich popular in the south. You can find many different kinds of noodle soup at small street stalls for just a couple bucks a day.
• Enjoy happy hour – The bars in the Pham Ngu Lao area have plenty of Happy Hours, including half-price drinks, cheap cocktails, and buy one get two free!
• Save money on rideshares – Grab is the Uber equivalent in Asia and is way cheaper than taxis. It’s the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to wait for a bus or pay for a taxi.
• Take a free walking tour – Free walking tours are one of the best ways to get oriented in a new city. I recommend Saigon Free Day Tours. Just remember to tip your guide at the end!
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is not safe to drink. To save money and reduce your plastic use, bring a reusable water bottle with you. LifeStraw make a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can be sure your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Ho Chi Minh

The city has a ton of hostels and cheap guesthouses.There’s lots of accommodation to choose from. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• The Hideout
• Hangout Hostel HCM
• The Like Hostel & Cafe
• City Backpackers Hostel

How to Get Around Ho Chi Minh City

Public transportation – Ho Chi Minh City has over 100 different bus routes, and you can reach all major tourist destinations this way. They’re safe and affordable, costing between 3,500-10,000 VND depending on the distance. You’ll pay the driver in cash as you get on the bus. However, if you’re going a short distance, this isn’t the most practical way to travel, as traffic is really bad here so it’s slow to get around.

Bicycle – A common way to get around the city is by bicycle, which you can ride easily since the city is so flat. You can rent a bike for about 130,000 VND per day. Some good companies to rent from include:

• Mr. Biker Saigon
• Saigon Bike Shop
• The Bike Coffee Cafe

Just a note of caution: traffic in Ho Chi Minh can be intense, so if you’re not an experienced cyclist, you may want to skip this option.

Taxis – Taxis start at around 12,000 VND for the first kilometer and 10,000 VND per kilometer thereafter. Grabbing a taxi from the airport to the center of the city should take about 30-minutes and costs about 200,000-330,000 VND. Do not take unmetered taxis!

You can also catch rides from motorcycle taxis for about 10,000 VND per kilometer or about 30,000 VND per short ride. Remember to set the price beforehand and always wear a helmet. Motorcycle taxis get you places the quickest, as they’re able to weave in and out of heavy traffic.

Cyclo – Cyclos are like tuk-tuks, except they run completely on man-power. Because cyclos are slow-moving and often a nuisance in traffic, many roads in Ho Chi Minh City are entirely closed off to them. If you choose to go this route, your driver may have to navigate around prohibited roads and may not be able to drop you off right at your address. Because of this, I do not recommend cyclos.

Ridesharing – Grab is Asia’s answer to Uber. It works the same way: you hire a local to take you somewhere via the app, and you can pay via the app or in cash. It’s often more affordable than a regular taxi too. Most rides cost around 40,000 VND.

When to Go to Ho Chi Minh City

The driest months in Ho Chi Minh City are from December to March, making it one of the most popular times to visit. The temperatures are warm during this time, ranging between 21-34°C (70-93°F). If you can, come during the Tet Festival (Vietnamese New Year) around the end of January or the beginning of February to enjoy the colorful celebrations. Prices are jacked up during this time, however, the city is lively and there are tons of parties and activities.

April and May are the hottest months of the year with highs reaching 37°C (99°F). The humidity can make it feel a lot hotter, though.

The rainy season lasts from May to September, but as in other parts of Southeast Asia, the downpour doesn’t tend to last long. The days are sunny and warm otherwise.

Another thing to note about the monsoon season: there are several public holidays during this time that may affect your visit. The most important ones are Vietnam Reunification Day on April 30th, May Day on May 1st, and Vietnam National Day on September 2nd. Shops and restaurants may be closed and public transit is unreliable.

How to Stay Safe in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City is a very busy city, but it’s a safe place to visit. Violent crime against travelers is very rare, but petty crime and theft are not. In crowded places, keep your purse/wallet close and be mindful of the activity around you. Don’t keep your cell phone or money in your hand as you’re walking around. Additionally, don’t leave your bags unattended when eating out. Always secure them so someone can’t grab them and run.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. The standard precautions apply as they do everywhere. For specific tips, check out one of the many solo female travel blogs on the web that go into more detail.

Traffic can be hard to navigate here. Motorbikes are everywhere, and as a pedestrian, crossing the street can be scary. Wait for a break in the traffic before crossing the road, but then don’t slow down or adjust your gait. Just make a beeline to the other side so the drivers can weave around you.

Be on the alert for scams. Most are really just cheap attempts to try to nickel and dime you so you’ll need to be vigilant. You can read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 113 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of safety advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Agoda – Other than Hostelworld, Agoda is the best hotel accommodation site for Asia.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on Vietnam travel and continue planning your trip:

The 6 Best Hostels in Hanoi

Is Southeast Asia Safe for Travelers?

Biking the Mekong Delta in Vietnam

Why I’ll Never Return to Vietnam

Get your  free travel starter kit.

Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Vietnam Private Tour Guides

Contact a private tour guide to plan your vietnam itinerary and book online..

View all 34 reviews

Popular Vietnam Destinations

Popular ho chi minh tour guides.

Xin Chao! Hello my fellow travellers and citizens of the world My name is Nhu (pronounced as New). I am a fully- blooded Saigonese. I would love to meet you in person, show you around my city and laugh with you. I love my home city and its unique blend of culture, history & delicious cuisine. In my entire life, I have always been in Saigon and have witnessed tremendous, exciting changes of the city in which I grew up in. Indeed, I am a happy local of this dynamic & vibrant city. Please let me and my hospitality show you the beauty of Saigon - Pearl of the far east I have extensive experience working as a local English-speaking guide for various companies, plus, many years during College as a Hotel Front-desk. My understanding of cultural differences and curiosity makes me a great local guide. I UNDERSTAND you and your needs because I am a traveller myself Why am I your great pick? There are many wonderful local guides in Ho Chi Minh city. However, I will not only be your guide, but also I will be the-friend-you-know in Saigon: I provide, including but not limited to: 1. Door to door service. Pick-up and drop-off as requested 2. Feel free to customize your own itinerary or go with my ready-to-book tours 3. I avoid touristy spots as much as I could to ensure you have off-the-beaten-track experience 4. No shopping (unless it is requested) 5. Come as customers, leave as friends Should you have any questions, do not hesitate to drop me a message. I am available to answer all of your inquiries, give recomendations about hotels, restaurants and how to navigate the city, etc. . . I am looking forward to the day we finally meet in person Locally yours, Ms. Nhu                                                                                                                                  

Dear Clients!. My name is Lee. I was born in South of Vietnam. - I graduated from National University in 2011 after 4 years learning for Bachelor degree in Tourism. - I used to be a local tour guide and a tour leader for Indochina countries (Vietnam - Cambodia - Laos) more than 10 years already. I love my country so much and desire sharing many things to all my clients included cultures, customs, history, landmarks, daily life, cuisine, characteristic locals among regions, how Vietnam has changed a lot after 1990… I'm confident that when you choose me for your journey, you'll not only get the hours entertainment, shopping, sightseeing and fun but also to get the experience of learning about the culture, cuisine, people and the values from the daily life of our people from urban to rural areas. I also have experienced with the clients from all Cruise come to Hochiminh City such as: Celebrity Mellenium, Silversea, Seabourn, Seven seas, Diamond princess. . . . - I also can arrange the Vietnam tour package 10-20 days depart from Saigon or Hanoi. - I think I have enough experience to make your trip more perfectly. - I would like to welcome and serve you and your friends to explore our beautiful country. Do not hesitate to contact me should you need any assistance and support from me here in Vietnam. Sincerely, Lee                                                                                                                                  

Chào(Hello)! I am Toàn, you can call me Fully. Saigon(Ho Chi Minh City) is my hometown, it's also the motorbike city with millions of bikes. I am a professional tour guide who love sharing full stories about the Vietnamese cuisine, history and culture. I have made this unique experience in order to let our foreign friends hang out with the local Saigonese on an adventure with motorbikes to experience the authentic Street Foods of the city. I have been doing motorbike tours for many years and have trained for many energetic university students who have the same passion like me to become my co-hosts. They are well-trained, fluent in English and excellent licensed drivers. Đi thôi(Let's go)! Let's put on the helmet, get on the motorbike and go with the flow! Thank you so much for your interest and see you soon!                                                                                                                                  

Hello, fellow travelers! My name is Kevin, and I am excited to introduce myself as your guide to the captivating wonders of Vietnam. Having been born and raised in Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, I possess an intimate knowledge of this enchanting country. Guiding people from around the world is not just a job for me; it is my passion. I take immense pride in showcasing the beauty of Vietnam, from its breathtaking landscapes to its warm and hospitable people. With over 5 years of experience as an English-speaking tour guide, I am dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable journey, immersing you in the rich culture and history of my beloved homeland. Let's do this adventure together guys!                                                                                                                                  

Popular hanoi tour guides.

Dear my beloved customers from all over the world, My name is Nhung, the local guide and foodie guide from Hanoi. I graduated from University of Languages & International Studies. A year after my first degree, I achieved International Tour Guide License issued by Vietnam Administration of Tourism. Additionally, from the love to Vietnamese cuisine, I joined culinary course and used to work as a professional chef for a local restaurant. I find myself to be lucky to have met numerous customers from all over the world to better understand and respect each culture and value. Beside all classic tours in Vietnam, I also have great ides for authentic tours as below: 1) Hidden Hanoi photograph tours 2) Hanoi backstreet motorbike tours: visit the beautiful parts of city and learn about local lives through hidden streets and alleys that only motorbikes can go through. 3) Non-touristy rural market visit and hands-on cooking experience at local home 4) Unspoilt Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi More customized options I can offer for your kind consideration. I will be your little ambassador in Hanoi. I will take you to best local restaurants, interact with locals who give their truly smile and heartily welcome you. Cheers, Nhung Nguyen                                                                                                                                  

Hello my dear customers from all over the world, My name is Steven. I was born and raised in Hanoi capital city. I identify myself as a reliable, friendly, experienced tour guide, wishing to introduce the hidden charm of our motherland to international friends. With many years of practical experience leading and guiding visitors around this most spectacular part of Vietnam and Asia, I am dedicated to giving my customers the holiday experience of a lifetime. To be confident that with my local know-how and regional connections, I can do just that time after time. I understand the essential ingredients for any holiday; from clean and comfortable accommodation to excellent cuisine and the chance to immerse oneself in the culture, history of the country you are visiting. Come and join me today to unlock the secrest of Hanoi and countryside. We will have a truly great connection with local people, historical witness. I will take you to places that no tourists there. Hence, beside the famous siteseeings, I have my unique tours to take you to visit traditional villages, tea plantation. Not only guiding in the Northern Vietnam, I can be your tour guide through all other parts of Vietnam such as ancient Hue capital city, Hoi An, Da Nang & Ho Chi Minh city. What I can offer: - Private tour guide services for Hanoi and parts of Vietnam - An expert in taking small group, private and family tour - The flexibility of tour duration & itinerary - The ability of taking care of customers through Vietnam in weeks/ months - The ability to create customized tours that best fit your expectations My ultimate goal is to bring the true beauty of our country, our people and our culture to friends all over the world. So join me to become my next happy customers and also my beloved friends. Please kindly contact me today to get wonderful tailor-made plan. With warm regards, Steven                                                                                                                                  

Hello my beloved customers from all over the world, If you are still doubting - Let me show you the best and the hidden gems in my city. My name is Nhan. I have been living in Hanoi and working as a professional tour guide for years. I am so fortunate to guide customers through all corners of Vietnam, especially the Northern part from Hanoi, Ninh Binh, HaLong Bay to Sapa. Besides the popular tourist attractions, my unique private tours will help you to unveil the things that you neither find on any travel map nor any guide books. Rolling on a private journey with me will make your trip unique, filled with unforgettable memories and enrich your experiences through the deep looks into the country. I love history, cuisine, culture. I am pleased, then to share the stories, the local lives with you. Are you a foodie? Let's savor the best specialties in truly local restaurants Are you solo traveler? No worries, let me become your host & show you the must-see & hidden treasures You are on a cruise ship with budget time? Let me tailor the wonderful proposal that best fits your expectations You are planning a business trip to Vietnam? Please let me be your translator, your business assistant. No matter your needs are, I am confident to bring you the best beautiful experience. To identify myself, I am well trained, experienced, flexible and insanely passionate about my job. I love sharing all to be shared. Come and join the tour with me today & you will feel the difference. Kindly give me your trust, I will give you satisfaction. With my best regards, Nhan                                                                                                                                  

I am a local guide team leader in Hanoi Capital where I am living, I have been working in Tourism for 10 years that's why I do almost understand travelers' behavior, requests. I'm interested in guiding tourists despite where you come from...Our Team will share you the valued experiences, acknowledgements, tips of trips, We are ready in Hanoi, Hoi An ancient town, Nha Trang beach city, Ho Chi Minh - Mekong delta                                                                                                                                  

Popular nha trang tour guides.

Because I need it for my job. I wish to work with foreigners tourist .I love to talk to share my experience with them and happy to talk about my country...                                                                                                                                  

Hey there! If you're ready to dive headfirst into the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam, then you've stumbled upon the right profile! I'm Thu, your go-to private tour guide. Picture this: You, me, and the bustling streets of Vietnam – a match made in travel heaven! With my knack for spinning a yarn and my impeccable English skills (if I do say so myself), you'll feel like you're strolling through Hanoi or cruising down the Mekong Delta with an old friend by your side. But wait, there's more! Not only do I know how to charm the socks off anyone I meet (thanks, socializing skills!), but I've also made it my life's mission to showcase the absolute best of Vietnam to make sure you leave with a heart full of memories and a camera roll bursting at the seams! And let's not forget my motto: "Prioritize the guest satisfaction!" Yep, you heard it right – your happiness is my top priority. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie on the prowl for the best pho in town, or simply looking to soak up the sights and sounds of this incredible country, I've got you covered. So, what are you waiting for? Let's turn your Vietnam adventure into an unforgettable escapade! Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even bust a move or two – because with me as your guide, the journey is bound to be as hilarious as it is enlightening.                                                                                                                                  

Michael loi H.

I'm michael loi - an english guide - granted for international tour guiding license - graduated from university of foreign studies. i have worked as a private tour guide for over 10 years in nha trang city, viet nam. tours that i have carried out in nha trang are: culture, history, islands, countryside, mountains, river, cruise ship landed at nha trang port, . i always bring discoveries, unforgetable expriences, fun and friendliness to international tourists. my motto: customers' satisfaction is my happiness. hope to see you one day have a good time.                                                                                                                                  , popular da nang tour guides.

We mainly focus on the authentic and signatured local experience beside popular destinations that we take our guests to explore in Central of Vietnam. We have worked with our customers for dozens of years so we know well our guests's expectation.                                                                                                                                  

Slogan: Experiencing things makes life meaningful and colorful I love to talk with people around the world and introduce about beautiful Vietnam in various areas such as history, food, people... It's interesting and I am absolutely a useful person. Moreover, it gives me good experiences with beautiful memories.                                                                                                                                  

Popular khanh hoa tour guides.

Hi Travelers Greetings from Nha Trang City - Beatiful beaches and island. My name's Stephen. I'm working as an tour operator and tour guide in Nha Trang City since 2006. I love my city with the culture and people are friendly that I want to share and bring to you the unforgettable memory in Nha Trang.                                                                                                                                  

Popular hoi an tour guides, popular hue tour guides.

Working as a tour-guide in central of Vietnam since 2014 and guided thousand of people the beauty of Vietnam's culture, history and people. From 2018, I started to work independently and focused in organizing tours in my Hue city only.                                                                                                                                  

Popular ninh binh tour guides.

My name is Anthony from Hanoi Vietnam, I have been working as a tour guide for 10 years, I like to travel, read book and chat with new people, sharing our beautiful country, I think it is a destiny that we know and meet each other, therefore I appreciate this relation with all the friends I meet, Lets come and travel with me                                                                                                                                  

I like to be your guide because I love to have more private visitors to show them our (Vietnam) beauty of nature and culture from my own expericences that I have been experienced and I think that is so worthy to share with travellers around the world                                                                                                                                  

Vietnam tour reviews.

Unlock the secrets of Hanoi on a half-day tour

“ Bike / food tour review ”

When I first arrived in Hanoi, my preferred mode of transportation would be walk or use a Grab car to go from point A to B. When I started the tour, it was a bit rocky for me to keep my balance, as I wasn't very familiar with motorbikes. However, I had nothing to worry about, as Nhung was a safe driver.If anything, the motorbike tours have not only improved my confidence but also enhanced my overall mindset and experience in Vietnam. Now, I can't get enough of using a Grab bike instead of a car. During the food tour with Nhung, I found one of the best banh mi in Hanoi, which I hadn't found anywhere else during my travels in Vietnam.

Dear Colin, I am so blessed to see your kind feedback. I cannot express enough my sincerest thanks for choosing my services and enjoying the tours with me. I am so glad that you loved the Banh Mi that I show you. Introducing the hidden treasures of my city from sightseeings, local people to local food is my passion. I am so excited to welcome you back next time. With my warmest regards from Hanoi, Nhung Rose

Hanoi city tour - train street & street food tour

“ Best Tour Guide in Vietnam! ”

Nhung gave us the absolute best tour of Hanoi. We ate wonderful Vietnamese food & went to many historical sites and went to train street! She was flexible with our many requests and just provided an overall excellent experience. Would recommend her 1000 times.

Dear Ms. Torri and team, Thank you so much for such glowing review. This really made my day. It was my great pleasure to be your local guide and show you the must sees and hidden gems of my home city. I am so glad that you love the local food as well. I sincerely wish one day the travel brings you back Vietnam and I would have another chance to show you around. With my warmest regards and best wishes from Hanoi, Nhung Rose

Wonderful Hanoi backstreet motorbike tour + food tour

“ Great tour ”

During Nhung tours my main highlight was when I unexpectedly forgot my hat at the Den Hang Bo, and was invited by the people running the temple to have tea and cake. It goes to show the nice hospitality of the people, when the unexpected occurs. Next time I come back, I will visit Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh with Nhung.

Dear Colin, Thank you so much for your kind feedback on my services. It is my great honor to be your tour guide for Hidden Hanoi walking tour and it was such a fabulous chance that we had a talk with local ladies in a local temple for the birthday of local God. I am so excited to welcome you back for another fabulous trip to Ninh Binh and HaLong Bay. With my best regards from Hanoi, Nhung Rose

The best tours and activities

With a real local of your choice

The option to personalize your tour

Just contact your favorite local

Only private tours!

So no group tours with strangers

Related Vietnam Tour Guide Pages

Local tour guides in vietnam.

Turn your Vietnam trip into a personalized memory with our private tours! With a local guide, you’ll navigate like a pro, soaking up authenticity as you go.

History and story lovers should venture south to the vibrant metropolis of Ho Chi Minh City, where the energy of modern Vietnam collides with echoes of a moving and deeply significant past. With your private tour guide as your navigator, delve into the maze-like Cu Chi Tunnels, a network of underground passageways that served as a strategic stronghold during the Vietnam War.

Then, immerse yourself in the sensory symphony of Ben Thanh Market, where the sights, sounds, and smells of Vietnamese cuisine come alive in a whirlwind of activity. Food tour anyone?

• Destinations

Free tours in Ho Chi Minh

• Tours in Ho Chi Minh

Compelling and Energetic Ho Chi Minh

From French colonial architecture and glorious temples to grand boulevards and a grid of narrow alleyways, Ho Chi Minh is a culture vulture’s paradise and addiction the moment upon arrival. Vietnam’s former Saigon is a chaotic, urban space mixing the old and new. Accessible at any taste and budget, this commercial hub offers accommodation at 5-star hotels, hip guesthouses, and anything in between.

After a long day of exploring Jade Emperor Pagoda, Notre Dame Cathedral, and War Remnants Museum, cool off and reflect in the beautiful Botanic Gardens. There’s still plenty of time to take advantage of the nightlife with live DJ’s, rock clubs, and music cafes to enjoying a walk along the Saigon River or hiring a motorbike for a ride through the frenzied streets of neon lights.

Eat your way through a culinary affair and slurp pho on the street by day, sip cocktails on the rooftop of a skyscraper by night. Head to the Binh Tay Market and galleries and try your hand at bargaining for the best faux-designer products before getting your fix on local coffee to die for, or take a cooking class to master the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia. There’s never a dull moment in Ho Chi Minh, so take advantage of the great Chinatown Free Tour found on Freetour.com.

• Join Freetour
• Provider Sign In
• Affiliate Program
• Security & Privacy
• Terms & Legal
• Cookie policy
• Freetour Awards
• Ratings & Reviews powered by

Freelance tour guide in ho chi minh

May 4, 2024 by kaitlyn - Emerald

YouTube Embed: No video/playlist ID has been supplied

Ho Chi Minh City One Day Tour Vietnam Tours

12-Day Vietnam Tour from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi

Freelance Tour Guide In Ho Chi Minh

Cu Chi Tunnels Morning or Afternoon Guided Tour Ho Chi

Ho Chi Minh tour guide AloTrip Da Nang To Nha Trang Ho Chi Minh City tours package Palm Vietnam Travel Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi in 12-day Vietnam tour, explore Mekong Delta, cruise along Halong Bay, taste charming Hoi An and discover more. Today your guide will pick you up at your hotel. Then you will start a tour of Ho Chi Minh City form the Thien Hau Temple (a Chinese temple) and the lively Binh Tay Discover Cu Chi Tunnels with an informative tour guide. Go underground to explore the tunnel system, walk around the forest and watch a war documentary. Freelance Tour Guide. 457 likes. Thanh Thu – freelance English speaking tour guide This is National Highway 1A connecting Hanoi captial with Ho Chi Minh City and With Luke Nguyen as your guide – find out how to spend 2 days in Ho Chi On tour: 48 hours in Ho Chi Minh you can see the Old Ho Chi Minh City’s street

Top 10 Tours from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City Saigon Motorcycle Tour Activities in Ho Chi Minh City Tour Guide In Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City: Hours, Address, Tour Guide In Saigon Reviews: 5/5 Ho Chi Minh City tours and things to do: Check out Viator’s reviews and photos of Ho Chi Minh City tours 7/05/2015 · Ho Chi Minh city one day itinerary. Where to go in Ho Chi Minh in one day. Ho Chi Minh private tour to French Quarter, Reunification Palace, Vietnam Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi in 12-day Vietnam tour, explore Mekong Delta, cruise along Halong Bay, taste charming Hoi An and discover more.

33 responses

Get the local experience downtown or in the countryside on a Ho Chi Minh tour. I highly recommend this tour. The tour guide was fun and gave us a lot of knowledge Freelance Tour Guide In Ho Chi Minh Ho Chi Minh City tours package Palm Vietnam Travel

Ho Chi Minh City is a center of all touristic activities and entertainments. There are many attractions and things to do. freelance tour operator Review of Detoured Asia Ho Chi Ho Chi Minh City tours package Palm Vietnam Travel Vietnam Tours Facts Top Destinations Best Time to Visit

Ho Chi Minh City tours and things to do: Check out Viator’s reviews and photos of Ho Chi Minh City tours top 5 Tours in Ho Chi Minh City Withlocals awesome tour guide service in Ho Chi Minh City Viet Saigon Motorcycle Tour Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Get the local experience downtown or in the countryside on a Ho Chi Minh tour. I highly recommend this tour. The tour guide was fun and gave us a lot of knowledge Vivy tour Tour Guide in Ho Chi Minh Synotrip Where can I find a freelance tour guide in hcmc? Quora

20/06/2014 · Detoured Asia: freelance tour operator – See 133 traveler reviews, 257 candid photos, and great deals for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, at TripAdvisor. Vietnam Tours Facts Top Destinations Best Time to Visit top 5 Tours in Ho Chi Minh City Withlocals Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide Read Our Full Holiday Guide

Ann.Nguyen is a local tour guide in Ho Chi Minh, , Vietnam. Book them on Synotrip at a rate of /day or choose from other Vietnam tour guides. Ho Chi Minh tour guide AloTrip Da Nang To Nha Trang Ho Chi Minh City One Day Tour Vietnam Tours Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City Private 3-Day Viator…

Hi, I’m Vivy. I’m a freelance tourguide and interpreter in Ho Chi Minh city with excellent English and 3 years experience in guiding in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi. Vietnam Fully Guided Motorbike Tours TigitMotorbikes

Saigon Square information for travelers. Check out local tips for visiting Saigon Square, beyond what’s in an ordinary Ho Chi Minh City guidebook! Saigon Motorcycle Tour Activities in Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City day Tour Private Tour Guide Interpreter

The marketplace for local tours, activities, home restaurants and private guides. Search. Destination. 28 Private Tours & Activities in Ho Chi Minh City + Filter. Lee Hogan Tour Guide In Saigon Ho Chi Minh City

Tour Guide In Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City: Hours, Address, Tour Guide In Saigon Reviews: 5/5 Tour Guide In Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) 2018 All You Vivy tour Tour Guide in Ho Chi Minh Synotrip

Ho Chi Minh City tours and things to do: Check out Viator’s reviews and photos of Ho Chi Minh City tours Vivy tour Tour Guide in Ho Chi Minh Synotrip Ho Chi Minh City One Day Tour Vietnam Tours

Discover the southern regions of Vietnam with our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide. At Flight Centre you’ll find great deals on a great selection of holidays. Ho Chi Minh City tours package Palm Vietnam Travel

7/05/2015 · Ho Chi Minh city one day itinerary. Where to go in Ho Chi Minh in one day. Ho Chi Minh private tour to French Quarter, Reunification Palace, Vietnam Guide Assisted Tours out of Ho Chi Minh Vietnam Fully Guided Motorbike Tours TigitMotorbikes ho chi minh free tours Your smiles are our happiness

Spend three full days exploring the Mekong Delta on a private tour from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh of Viator. The ‘guides’ are all freelance and get a Freelance job vacancies in Ho Chi Minh City expat

freelance tour guide in ho chi minh – The authoritative list for freelance tour guide in ho chi minh in 2018. Luke Nguyen’s 48 hour guide to Ho Chi Minh City SBS

Discover Cu Chi Tunnels with an informative tour guide. Go underground to explore the tunnel system, walk around the forest and watch a war documentary. 12-Day Vietnam Tour from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi

20/06/2014 · Detoured Asia: freelance tour operator – See 133 traveler reviews, 257 candid photos, and great deals for Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, at TripAdvisor. Saigon Motorcycle Tour Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Find freelance job offers in Ho Chi Minh City. Post your ad for free if you are offering freelance job opportunities in Ho Chi Minh City. Saigon Motorcycle Tour Activities in Ho Chi Minh City Where can I find a freelance tour guide in hcmc? Quora

Vietnam Fully Guided Motorbike Tours. Guide Assisted Tours out of Ho Chi Minh. Tigit has teamed up with a variety of freelance tour companies and guides to 28 Private Tours & Activities in Ho Chi Minh City

Hi, I’m Vivy. I’m a freelance tourguide and interpreter in Ho Chi Minh city with excellent English and 3 years experience in guiding in Vietnam from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi. Where can I find a freelance tour guide in hcmc? Quora Vietnam Tours Facts Top Destinations Best Time to Visit

7/05/2015 · Ho Chi Minh city one day itinerary. Where to go in Ho Chi Minh in one day. Ho Chi Minh private tour to French Quarter, Reunification Palace, Vietnam The Top 10 Ho Chi Minh City City Tours (w/Prices) Viator Freelance Tour Guide In Ho Chi Minh

Get the local experience downtown or in the countryside on a Ho Chi Minh tour. I highly recommend this tour. The tour guide was fun and gave us a lot of knowledge Freelance job vacancies in Ho Chi Minh City expat Ho Chi Minh tour guide AloTrip Da Nang To Nha Trang

Saigon Square information for travelers. Check out local tips for visiting Saigon Square, beyond what’s in an ordinary Ho Chi Minh City guidebook! Ho Chi Minh Fake Tour Guide Ho Chi Minh City Forum

We offer Vietnam tours package for your vacation. Travel to Vietnam and take a cruise on Mekong River. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Museum, the unique One Pillar Pagoda Saigon Motorcycle Tour Activities in Ho Chi Minh City Freelance job vacancies in Ho Chi Minh City expat Ann.Nguyen Tour Guide in Ho Chi Minh Synotrip

7/05/2015 · Ho Chi Minh city one day itinerary. Where to go in Ho Chi Minh in one day. Ho Chi Minh private tour to French Quarter, Reunification Palace, Vietnam Classic Vietnam Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam Where can I find a freelance tour guide in hcmc? Quora freelance tour operator Review of Detoured Asia Ho Chi

Here’s our list of private guides in Ho Chi Minh ensuring you have the best possible tour experience in Ho Chi Minh Starting as a freelance tour guide, Ho Chi Minh tour guide AloTrip Da Nang To Nha Trang Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City Private 3 ca.viator…

Saigon Square information for travelers. Check out local tips for visiting Saigon Square, beyond what’s in an ordinary Ho Chi Minh City guidebook! Ho Chi Minh City day Tour Private Tour Guide Interpreter

Vietnam Fully Guided Motorbike Tours. Guide Assisted Tours out of Ho Chi Minh. Tigit has teamed up with a variety of freelance tour companies and guides to ho chi minh free tours Your smiles are our happiness Ho Chi Minh City tours package Palm Vietnam Travel

Ho Chi Minh City is a center of all touristic activities and entertainments. There are many attractions and things to do. Ho Chi Minh tour guide AloTrip Da Nang To Nha Trang Where can I find a freelance tour guide in hcmc? Quora

I just want to share my bad experience here with my friend when we bound for Ho Chi Minh last He showed us he is a freelance tour guide and the tour fees is very Ho Chi Minh City One Day Tour Vietnam Tours Saigon Square Tour Guide in Ho Chi Minh City Meetrip Ho Chi Minh tour guide AloTrip Da Nang To Nha Trang

Here’s our list of private guides in Ho Chi Minh ensuring you have the best possible tour experience in Ho Chi Minh Starting as a freelance tour guide, Classic Vietnam Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam Freelance job vacancies in Ho Chi Minh City expat 12-Day Vietnam Tour from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi

Mekong Delta Tour from Ho Chi Minh City. Meet at Saigon Opera House prior to your 8am departure, and set out on your 8-hour tour from Ho Chi Minh City in an air Lee Hogan Tour Guide In Saigon Ho Chi Minh City

Vietnam Fully Guided Motorbike Tours. Guide Assisted Tours out of Ho Chi Minh. Tigit has teamed up with a variety of freelance tour companies and guides to Ho Chi Minh City tours package Palm Vietnam Travel

Comments are closed.

[email protected]

+84 938 3143 86 ( whatsapp / wechat ), the ultimate guide to tours with local students in vietnam.

The tourism industry has changed so much for a half decade thanks to information technology. Young people and middle-aged tend to book hotels, tours and services themselves directly with owners, hosts and tour operators or on Online Travel Agencies such as  AirBnB, Expedia, Agoda, Booking.com, Cookly, Eatwith, WithLocal, GetYourGuide, Viator. Package tours provided by tour agencies are not good choices, cruise passengers book day trips themselves but not join popular tours operated by their cruise ships in order to save money and experience less-known places. Tours with local students in Vietnam can help to minimize your budget and bring you a great chance to interact with local people, not experienced tour guides telling boring stories. “Is student tours in Vietnam good?” is one of the most frequently asked questions. This ultimate guide to tours with local students in Vietnam answer all questions about student tours and give you helpful tips on booking the tours and avoiding inconvenience and problems.

Table of Contents

Types of tours with local students in Vietnam

When you type “tours with local students in Vietnam” or similar keywords, you can find not less than one hundred results on Google Search Network. The results include websites of Vietnam’s student clubs, tour agencies, TripAdvisor, LonelyPlanet, OTAs such as AirBnB, WithLocal, GetYourGuide, Viator. Some of the tours are free, some cost from $15 USD. Student tours are more popular in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City than in other tourist destinations.

FREE tours with local students, provided by CLUBS

Well-known student clubs and tour guide clubs such as Saigon Hotpot (since 2006), Saigon Free Day Tours (2017), HanoiKids Free Tours (since 2006), Hanoi Free Tour Guides (since January 2010) provide free tours run by students and ex-students. The purposes of the clubs include introducing Vietnam’s attractions and hidden parts, Vietnamese culture and cuisines to travelers, making new friends from all around the world, improving their English, soft skills and knowledge. The clubs are usually sponsored by some organizations or companies, most of which are travel agencies. Travelers pay nothing for the tours except for transportation, entrance fee, foods and drinks.

A tour with Saigon Hotpot is full of smiles.

FREE tours with local students, provided by TOUR AGENCIES AND TRAVEL COMPANIES

Many tour agencies and travel companies offer free tours with local students in order to promote their brands and train students who are going to be tour guides and work for them. Similar to free student tours provided by clubs, the tour price is 0 Vietnamese Dong. Travelers pay for transportation, entrance fee, foods and drinks themselves.

The Saigon Student City Tour by Team Onetrip costs 0 Vietnamese Dong. It is marked as a donation-based tour.

CHEAP tours with local students, provided by TOUR AGENCIES AND LOCAL GUIDES

In recent, cheap student tours in Vietnam are very popular. It is true that not all travelers have enough money to pay for luxurious or expensive experiences. For example, the Saigon food tour provided by XOTours costs nearly $80 USD, the Saigon food adventure by Vespa Adventure costs from $90 USD. A number of Saigon food tours with local students cost from $15 USD, including motorbikes, foods and drinks. What are the differences? Expensive tours are usually advertised to be operated by experienced companies, run by non-student guides, provided with safe motorbikes (vintage vespas), safe and more foods. However, many food tours with local students receive a large number of 5-star reviews. Cheap student tours have been promoted by lots of OTAs because they bring the OTAs lots of profits and contribute to making advertisement campaigns effective.

XOTours – one of the first motorbike tour in Saigon provide tours run by Ao Dai riders. The price of the food tour costs $78 USD, the sight tour costs $52 USD.

Food tours with local students on AirBnB costs from $23, Hidden gems tours including coffee costs only $12 USD.

Some tour agencies create student tours and sell them at cheap prices in order to train their guides and earn money from the tours. In this case, you can find tours described and sold on the companies’ websites and OTAs. A local student can register an account on AirBnb, WithLocal and TripAdvisor and sell tours one these online marketplaces. You should learn about the information about the host or owner before booking the tour.

OXO Travel – a travel agency that sells tours with local students on TripAdvisor.

OXO Travel sells tours with local students on their website.

Van Bon Dat – a local student sells his tour on AirBnb.

Warmest Greetings To All from Tracy Do! If you have any questions about Vietnam, including Vietnam tours, do not hesitate to contact me.

• Tel (Call/SMS/Whatsapp): (+84) 938314386
• Email: [email protected]

Tracy’s team is proud to provide excellent Vietnam tours and Vietnam travel services to thousands of guests for 10 years. Let us have a chance to show you Vietnam to the fullest.

PROS of tours with local students in Vietnam

• Cheap prices or free tours help travelers maximize their budgets.
• Make friends with local people who are passionate, energetic and love the city at their best.
• Local students tell you about real stories that professional tour guides may not let you know.

CONS of tours with local students in Vietnam

• The quality of student tours is not guaranteed. Vehicles, foods and drinks provided on the tours can be safe or unsafe.
• Some local students usually speak limited English so that they can not introduce to you the city at its best and share with you the best stories about the local life and themselves.
• Students can not answer all of your questions about attractions, history, war, etc.
• The guides can not be trained as well as possible because there is no training expense.

Are student tours good enough?

If you choose reliable and experienced tours with good reviews, the answer is yes. As mentioned above, not all students are trained well so that they may arrange a student who lacks information and speaks limited English. In high season, the quality is worse than in low season.

TIPS on BOOKING and JOINING tours with local students in Vietnam

• Search on Google Search Network for free local student tours. Saigon Hotpot (since 2006), Saigon Free Day Tours (2017), HanoiKids Free Tours (since 2006), Hanoi Free Tour Guides (since January 2010) are good choices. Remember to read the reviews on TripAdvisor before contacting them.
• Search for local student tours (free or cost) on TripAdvisor.
• Cheap tours with local students are abundant on Viator, AirBnB, GetYourGuide, Freetour.com, WithLocal. I would like to recommend AirBnB which provides a wide range of choices.
• Read reviews as carefully as possible but you should be smart enough to discount unreliable reviews on TripAdvisor. Anyone can register using an email or Facebook account, then post reviews on TripAdvisor. Some companies in Vietnam hunt for as many reviews as possible. They may pay guides for reviews with their names, create fake accounts and posted fake positive reviews. A company can be given 1-star ratings by competitors. So that some reviews on TripAdvisor are not reliable. Discount one-time reviews and count on reviews by accounts who left some reviews, posted photos, provide locations.
• On OTAs, they can post reviews after joining the tours. However, the host or company only asks guests, who are satisfied with the tours, to leave reviews. A few guests who are really disappointed with the service leave negative reviews.
• The team of TripAdvisor and OTAs have experienced tours of the top 5 in order to guarantee the quality and reliability so that it will be safer to do the tour with top-rated hosts or tour operators.
• Free tours tend to be full so that you should book with them as soon as possible. The tours provided by well-known free tour clubs or travel companies may not available within one week.
• It is not a good behavior to cancel a free tour. You should plan the trip carefully first, then book with them. Try your best to not cancel free tours.
• It is recommended to tip tour guides on local student tours although tipping is not a must in Vietnam. You should tip at least $5 USD/person/day. Certainly, you can skip tipping if you are not happy with the tours.

TripAdvisor employee experiences a top-rated local student tour.

• City tours and food tours by walking or motorbike are the most popular student tours because students can not easily arrange to join one-day or multiday trips and do not have enough knowledge to take guests to other attractions except for places in the city. Certainly, students will not provide detailed information and can not answer all of your questions about attractions in the cities. You should learn more about attractions yourself before and after the tour by reading books and articles on the Internet.
• Food tours with local students are easy for students to lead and for guests to book. It is just a drive around the city, stop at local restaurants and enjoy delicious foods. Some restaurants and foods are researched carefully before taking you there and serving you. Some guides may take you to local restaurants serving unsafe foods which may make your stomach hurt. Make sure to read about the menu, reviews and see photos or videos of foods before booking. Refuse to eat dirty or oily, undercooked foods.

Related Posts

Top 10 most beautiful islands in Vietnam

Top 10 Tourist Attractions Nam Dinh, Vietnam

10+ Must things to know before booking any hotel in Vietnam

Top 5 Cinemas in Vietnam

7 Best ATMs in Vietnam

10+ Things You Should Never Pack for a Trip to Vietnam

About the author.

Hi everybody! I would like to say thank you for reading my blogs whether you are planning your trip to Vietnam, expats who live and work in the country, students and researchers who would like to find information about Vietnam, especially Vietnamese culture, foodies who are interested in delicious Vietnamese foods and recipes and others. My friends call me Tracy and I am living in Ho Chi Minh City. Having a huge passion for travel and a master's degree of Information Technology, I have launched some travel projects including Athena Travel Vietnam, Vietnam Trip Advice, Hidden Travel Vietnam, OXO Tour, Scooter Saigon Tour, Ao Dai Saigon Food Tour after graduating from abroad. Thousands of trav elers use our services and 99% of them are satisfied. What are my hobbies? Traveling, going to pagodas, museums and studying beautiful architectural works, visit tourist attractions. I have loved writing since I was a child. Writing blogs as well as sharing travel tips, tourist attractions and lots of hidden places are my top thing to do with my free time. Why are my blogs different from others? Ease of reading is the number one highlight. I have tried my best to use simple structures and vocabulary so that readers feel comfortable and convenient and find it easy to read. You may tend to read articles and blogs written by journalists of famous travel magazines, newspapers, travel websites or big travelers who travel around the world and have their own blogs. My blogs are written by a local so that you have a chance to learn more about less-known things, untold tips, hidden gems and foods. If you like my blogs, just share it on your social media. If you have any question relating to Vietnam, just comment or contact me via live chat, email, WhatsApp, Facebook. If you are going to travel to Vietnam, give our team a chance to show you Ho Chi Minh City and South Vietnam. Tracy's team can handle all of your needs including Ho Chi Minh city tours, Ho Chi Minh scooter (motorbike) tours, Ho Chi Minh food tours, Saigon unseen tours, Mekong Delta tours, Cu Chi Tunnels Tour, Ho Chi Minh City transfer services, Ho Chi Minh City shore excursions.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

The 10 best places to visit in Vietnam in 2024

Feb 24, 2024 • 8 min read

Experience the best of Vietnam with these top places to visit © hadynyah / Getty Images

With its rolling emerald landscapes, perfect beaches and energetic cities, Vietnam is unsurprisingly a magnet for visitors in search of an incredible travel experience.

This country is teeming with attractions, so it pays to plan your trip around the places you absolutely can't miss. Where you want to go will influence whether you fly into cultured Hanoi in the north or energetic Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) in the south, or whether you bypass these two megacities for the laid-back beaches of tropical Phu Quoc.

Start your travel to-do list now with our ten favorite places to visit in Vietnam.

1. Phu Quoc

Best for beach lovers

About as far south as you can get from Hanoi without splashing into the Gulf of Thailand, the island of Phu Quoc is where beach worshippers come to pray. Lapped by jewel-blue waters and edged by fine sandy beaches, this is a place to slip into low gear, reaching for a cocktail as the ember-colored sun dips into the bay.

But it's far from undiscovered – local tourists come in droves for theme park thrills at VinWonders and giddying views over the sea from the world's longest over-sea cable car. Phu Quoc is a popular stop for families, and if you fancy a change from the tourist scene, there are dense jungles to explore inland from the sand.

Planning tip: If you're bound for Phu Quoc, there's no need to go via Hanoi and HCMC; numerous Asian airlines offer flights from hubs such as Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur and Seoul, connecting with long-haul flights further afield.

Best for city slickers

Every trip has to start somewhere, and the ideal point of arrival for first-timers is Vietnam's historic capital. As well as easy infrastructure, inexpensive accommodation, world-class dining and more history than you'll ever have time to take in, Hanoi is the leaping-off point for the islands and outcrops around Halong Bay and the forest-draped trails of the mountainous northwest. Give yourself time to graze through Vietnam's catalog of street food treats  and pause to soak up the atmosphere in cozy cafes in the Old Quarter as well as rush around the sights.

Planning tip: To enjoy Hanoi nightlife on a budget, swing by the streetside bia hoi (draft beer) stalls at busy Bia Hoi Junction on the drinking strip of P Ta Hein.

3. Lan Ha Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay

Best for iconic photos

The crowds mob Halong Bay , but for our money, the shimmering bays to the north and south have a slight edge over Vietnam's most famous collection of outcrops and islands. While trips to Halong Bay are highly commercialized, with motorized luxury junks blowing diesel fumes around the eroded karst islands, Lan Ha Bay  and Bai Tu Long Bay  are a bit more laid-back, and you won't have quite so many cruise ships in your photos. Try kayaking between the outcrops, explore the tropical trails on Cat Ba Island – gateway to Lan Ha Bay – or kick back on the sand on Bai Tu Long's idyllic Co To Island.

Planning tip: If you visit Cat Ba Island, take time to explore the trails around Cat Ba National Park – if you trek with your own guide, it's easy to leave the crowds behind.

4. Ho Chi Minh City

Best for a sense of the past

Cosmopolitan Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is the southern counterweight to Hanoi in the north, taking its cultural cues from the Mekong Delta and neighboring Cambodia . It's fast-paced, frenetic and fun, particularly after dark, when the pavements transform into a mobile buffet of street food stalls and roadside bars.

A little of the frontier feel of the war years lives on in HCMC, and you can learn more about this violent period at sites such as the War Remnants Museum . The ghosts of French Indochina linger too – set aside some time to wander past the city's colonial-era landmarks, then settle into a coffee shop with a drip-brewed ca phi .

Planning tip: For a break from the city crush, swing out to nearby Tay Ninh, where the Cao Dai Holy See offers a fascinating introduction to the all-embracing Cao Dai religion.

5. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

Best for unique experiences

Vietnam's biggest natural attraction – literally – is Hang Son Doong Cave, the largest cavern in the world by volume and a true wonder. An entire New York City block could fit inside its vast main passage, but this monster cavern is only accessible on expensive guided treks.

The good news is that  Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park  is pockmarked with caverns that you can clamber, crawl, boat or zipline through for a fraction of the cost. Trips to the Tu Lan, Phong Nha and Paradise caves are possible on a shoestring budget; more cash will buy access to Hang En, where trekkers set up tents on an underground beach, illuminated by shafts of natural light.

Best for history

A stay in harmonious Hoi An is a journey into Vietnam's lavish, layered past. This was once one of the most important ports in Asia, and traders from as far afield as Japan, Spain and North America filled the pockets of its merchants with gold. Locals used their money wisely, packing the Old Town with teetering shophouses, tea warehouses, fanciful covered bridges, elaborate Chinese guildhalls, and colorful Confucian and Buddhist pagodas. History is only the beginning – many travelers stay for days, learning to make white rose dumplings and summer rolls on chef-led cooking courses, and ordering made-to-measure suits and gowns from the city's modestly priced tailors' shops.

Planning tip: For a change of pace, head inland from Hoi An and spend a night in a friendly community homestay in the Co Tu minority village of Bho Hoong.

7. The Central Beaches

Best for sun-seekers

Sandy bays stud Vietnam's central coastline, but the mood varies widely from beach to beach. Package tourists flock to high-rise Danang  and Nha Trang – famed as military R&R stops during the American War – but we rate the calmer beaches along the coast, where a little of Vietnam's old seaside charm still endures. To the south of Nha Trang, Mui Ne is a lively kitesurfing hub following a string of sandy coves, while Doc Let Beach to the north serves up 18km (11 miles) of sand, surf and seafood. For a quieter experience, hit the coast between Hue and Danang – Thuan An is the gateway to a string of serene and sandy beaches flanking a lagoon-backed barrier island.

Best for imperial history

The former capital of the Nguyen dynasty – which ruled over large parts of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia in the 19th and 20th centuries – drips with imperial history, despite the ravages of US bombers during the American War. Much was lost in Hue , but the grandeur of dynastic Vietnam lives on in the Citadel and Imperial Enclosure , housing the emperor's residence, temples, palaces and court. At one time, entering without permission would bring instant death. Just outside town are the tombs of Vietnam's greatest emperors, resting serenely in green compounds beside the Perfume River. Another relic of royal rule is Hue's imperial cuisine – arguably the finest in the country – try a spicy bowl of bun bo Hue (vermicelli noodle soup) or a crispy banh khoai pancake, and you'll see what we mean.

Planning tip: To stay one step ahead of the crowds at Hue's imperial tombs and rent a motorcycle or scooter to explore; don't miss the Thien Mu Pagoda on your way out of the city.

9. Ba Be National Park

Best for lake and forest scenery

Vietnam has more than 30 national parks , taking in everything from coastal swamps to mountain jungles, but some are firmly on the tourist trail, and the crowds can be an impediment to spotting wildlife. That's less of a problem in lovely Ba Be National Park , where trails weave between the limestone peaks to Hmong, Tay and Dzao villages, and boat and kayak trips cross serene lakes hemmed in by forested ridges, creating scenes worthy of a medieval woodcut. The park is a haven for everything from macaques and langur monkeys to rare black bears, scaly pangolins and the spectacular crested serpent eagle.

Planning tip: Comfy accommodation in village homes completes the sense of stepping off the mainstream tourist circuit. For an intimate homestay experience, check out the family-run guesthouses in Pac Ngoi village, accessible by bus from Hanoi, via the village of Cho Don.

10. Ha Giang

Best for mountain views

Trekking to the minority villages in the hills around Sapa  is one of Vietnam's top draws, but the country's trekking capital feels rather commercialized these days. Hikers have to walk further every year to find the rural idyll that first drew people to the northwest.

For scenic countryside without the company, remote Ha Giang  province is Vietnam's new frontier. Staying in simple village homestays, you can hike out to minority villages and rice terraces tucked between the soaring limestone peaks, and motor (or pedal) over some of Vietnam's most spectacular passes. You'll want to take plenty of photos on the winding mountain road between Ha Giang town, Dong Van and Meo Vac.

Planning tip: If you're confident in the saddle, motorcycles can easily be rented in Ha Giang town – just ride slowly and be ready for rainy conditions!

This article was first published Apr 13, 2021 and updated Feb 24, 2024.

Explore related stories

Mar 14, 2024 • 10 min read

Whether it's bus, train, private car, motorcycle, bike, plane or boat, you can plan your trip around Vietnam with this guide to getting around.

Feb 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Feb 3, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 17, 2024 • 8 min read

Dec 27, 2023 • 8 min read

Dec 15, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 17, 2023 • 5 min read

Nov 16, 2023 • 7 min read

Nov 7, 2023 • 5 min read

Oct 28, 2023 • 7 min read

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Restaurants
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Vietnam - English - USD
• Peter Franklin’s Saigon: Bars, Snail Shops, and More

The MICHELIN Guide invites you to experience Ho Chi Minh City through the captivating lens of Peter Cuong Franklin, the visionary chef who has redefined the city's culinary landscape.

My Ho Chi Minh City Ho Chi Minh City Editor's Pick Saigon Vietnam

Upon his return from Hong Kong in 2017 to open Ănăn Saigon , veteran chef Peter Cuong Franklin observed that the dining scene in Ho Chi Minh City has undergone a dramatic transformation. This dynamic city, the economic and culinary capital of Vietnam, is now emerging as one of the world's premier food destinations. Here, one can find anything and everything at any hour—from remarkable street food and bustling snail restaurants to raucous barbecue beer joints and international flavours, including traditional French, Malaysian, Latin American, Japanese, and world-class, single-origin chocolates.

According to Franklin , Vietnamese gastronomy is being showcased more prominently on the global stage following the arrival of the first MICHELIN Guide . Not only the food but the craft cocktail scene, too, is thriving, with a new generation of young, talented bartenders opening numerous bars, making it one of the most vibrant in Asia. "Young Saigoneses are transitioning from traditional daytime coffee shops and juice bars to cocktail bars at night," notes the 61-year-old culinary pioneer. "For those looking to experience the new Vietnam, Saigon is the place to be." The seasoned MICHELIN Star restaurant chef takes you on a journey through his Ho Chi Minh City , a city that pulses with life day and night. Experience a day in this bustling metropolis, from unforgettable bites to fine cocktail bars, after-hours meals, to snail shops. RELEVANT:  A Guide to Vietnamese Coffee

For a morning cuppa joe: E-Paso Coffee (94E Pasteur Street)

For a true Saigon experience: Com Tam

For a sip or more: BOO SG Cocktail Bar

For a night you won't forget: Ốc Đào

For a place to hide: Things Livingroom

For people-watching: Go2 Wine Bar Saigon

For mingling and meeting people: Pham Viet Chanh

For a late-night grub: Phở Hoà Pasteur and Phở Lệ (District 5)

READ FURTHER:  Refugee Turned Banker Turned Chef: Peter Cuong Franklin on the Story Behind Ho Chi Minh City’s First (and Only) MICHELIN Star Illustration image: © Mervin Lee/ MICHELIN Guide Vietnam

After over a decade of writing for leading luxury and lifestyle publications, and dining and wining with world’s famous, this Bangkokian finds herself as a Digital Editor of the MICHELIN Guide Thailand and Vietnam. She enjoys exchanging cultural views over a glass of wine or Gin Rickey. If not on the beach, she can be found at the gym, catching a plane, or at home reading Agatha Christie’s novels.

2 Days in Bangkok for Street Food Lovers

All the best places to eat in Bangkok without the pomp and circumstance of high-end dining. Plus the best spots to base yourself for an unforgettable street food adventure.

A History Lover's Guide to Penang

Visitors flock to Penang for two reasons: its vibrant street food scene and its rich history, which has earned its recognition from UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. A feast for the senses, here is a guide for history buffs who would like to take a trip to this delightful city.

A Nature Lover's Guide to Singapore

From tropical mangroves and coastal boardwalks to the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a UNESCO-recognised nature site with more than 160 years of history, here’s a nature lover’s guide to exploring the Garden City.

Keep Exploring - Stories we think you will enjoy reading

London in the Summer: 10 Things to See and Do

What better time of year to explore the capital? Discover our list of Inspector-approved activities for enjoying the warmer weather.

Pangina Heals’ Bangkok: Bars, Fab Shops, Rendezvous Spots, Sexy Nights Out, and More

The MICHELIN Guide invites you to discover Bangkok through the dazzling perspective of the fabulous Pangina Heals, the international Thai drag superstar who took RuPaul's Drag Race by storm.

3 Days in London

The Michelin Inspectors' top tips on where to eat, drink, stay and have fun in one of the world's busiest and most exciting cities

Paris in Summer: 14 Must-Sees to Live Like a Local

In July and August, Paris is transformed into a seaside resort. Terraces, beaches, and swimming on the banks of the Seine... Open-air swimming pools, music festivals, and cinemas... For a successful weekend or extended stay in the City of Light, follow The MICHELIN Guide's recommendations!

Chef Tran Quang Binh Shares His Northern Vietnamese Cuisine Secrets at MICHELIN-listed Backstage in Hanoi

What are the secrets of Northern Vietnamese cuisine at Backstage, a MICHELIN-listed restaurant?

5 Places in Ho Chi Minh City that Serve Vegetarian Menu

Check out these five MICHELIN-recommended hotspots serving up scrumptious plant-based delights.

2 Days in Ko Samui

48 hours in Ko Samui and you’ll never want to leave.

2 Days in Hanoi

Experience the "City of Lakes" with our 48-hour guide covering restaurants, hotels, and more.

2 Days in Ho Chi Minh City

Start your own adventure—the MICHELIN Guide way—in Ho Chi Minh City.

How to Be a Zero-Waste Hero at Home, Like Chapter, a MICHELIN Restaurant

Chef Quang Dung shares how you can go green like a pro.

MICHELIN Guide

Use the app to find the best restaurants and hotels everywhere

Be the first to get news and update about the michelin guide.

MICHELIN Guide selections

The michelin group.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Legal Notice

Display settings

Customize your experience by easily adjusting display settings for territory, and currency to suit your preferences!

Member privileges

The Plus program provides upgrades and amenities at participating hotels. For this hotel, Plus members will receive:

Non-members can add the privileges at checkout through our 30 day free trial, cancellable at anytime.

Ha Noi to Da Nang – The Famous Ho Chi Minh Road

5 – 7  days on the Famous Ho Chi Minh road

Day 1: ha noi – pu luong ~ 190 km, day 2: pu luong – vinh ~ 280km, day 3: vinh – phong nha ~ 240km, day 4: phong nha – khe sanh ~ 240 km, day 5: khe sanh – hue ~ 230km, day 6: hue – hoi an ~ 130km, day 7: hoi an – da nang (30km)..

Written by a Vietnamese Tour guide and lightly edited by Tigit Jon. Keeping natural language.

This route is the continuation of 7 days Ha Giang Loop and 7 days North West .

You will find another replacement for Pu Luong is Ninh Binh but in my eyes, if you are short on time Pu Luong will be a better suit for riders. If not, you can go to Ninh Binh on day 1 and Pu Luong on day 2 (take the route drive around Cuc Phuong National Park).

Pu Luong is famous because of its rice fields. It is the very beginning of “yellow” step paddies if your vacation is in September, and after that, it is filled with plum blossom.

It is a similar day 1 of North West by motorcycle.

The alternative to Pu Luong is Mai Chau, which has the same scenery from my perspective, but Pu Luong is a bit quieter compared with Mai Chau. Also, Pu Luong is 40 km away from Mai Chau, so it will be shorter on the second day of this trip.

Lunch:   Banh My – Ban Bakery & Tea Bun Cha Mai Chau Dinner: Pu Luong La Fumée Restaurant

Hotel: Pu Luong Happy Home (~ 30 USD per night). Another upgrade is Pu Luong Paradise Resort (50 USD per night).

Now is the time to start your journey on the Ho Chi Minh road.

Actually, there is nothing much to write about this day besides the scenery. You will encounter a couple of cars and trucks on this day and the reason we chose to stop in Vinh is because there are no soft mattress along the Ho Chi Minh road.

This part of Ho Chi Minh road is different from the rest because you will not see that many houses or buildings along the way, besides all the fields which are filled with green.

Breakfast: At the Hotel. Lunch: Khanh Thanh Restaurant (Vietnamese meal for drivers). Dinner: The American Steak Restaurant

Hotel:  Muong Thanh Thanh Nien Vinh (~30USD per night).

On this day, you will leave all the cities and busy roads behind and find your way to nature. Along the ride, you will see that the people, the cars, and the trucks continuously disappear, and you will find the pleasure of driving without any distractions from external factors.

The type of terrain, the way it looks, the color, etc. Everything changes since you are one step from the center of Viet Nam.

Besides, Phong Nha has many caves, so there are some proper tours exploring the area. You can take 1-2 or maybe 3 rest days in this area to relax and also do some tourist activities.

Breakfast: Preferably at the hotel. Lunch: Cuong Nhi Restaurant (typical Driver’s lunch) Dinner: The Villas (Western Cuisine)

Hotel: Son Doong Bungalow (35 USD per night). Lucky Homestay (25USD per night).

First, please fill up the tank before you drive. There are only 2 gas stations on this road, and you will not want to be concerned about the fuel.

But the good side is that this is the best drive on the Ho Chi Minh Road. You will drive along the Phong Nha arboretum, and you will find shade under all the trees. And the most interesting thing is that there are endless Moths on the driveway hanging and guiding you through this area.

You will find yourself alone on this road, and then the driver and the bike become one. You will be surrounded by nature, animals, and, of course, the beauty of it. You become a Lone Ranger.

Funny story: Some of our customers even decided to drive this road once more because they had a really great time.

Breakfast: At the hotel. Lunch: Thu’s Restaurant – Pho, Noodle, Fried Rice. Dinner: At the hotel.

Hotel:  Khe Sanh Luxury Hotel (30 USD per night).

On this day, you have some alternatives. You can go to Hue via the coastal route or go straight to Da Nang on the mountain route. Both are great and offer different experiences.

On the coastal side, you can visit museums and Vinh Moc tunnels, have some seafood, and enjoy the ocean view after a couple of days filled with mountains. It is Tigit’s recommendation to stay on the mountain route thought, and we prefer it to the famous Hai Van Pass.

Breakfast: At the Hotel. Lunch: Hoa’s Restaurant – Seafood Dinner: You can find a lot of great food in Hue both Western and Eastern styles. These are some Hue specials: Quan Cam – Best Bun Bo Hue in town. Chan Restaurant – Fine Vietnamese cuisine. Coffe Muoi – Best Salt Coffee in town.

Hotel: For our tour: La Paix Hue (~ 40 USD per night). Millennium Hue Hotel (~ 35 USD per night).

This day will be short on drive, so you can a bit of time to enjoy Hoi An’s old town. All the stores close quite early, around 8:30 p.m., so you will have to be in the old town at around 6-7 or maybe even 5 p.m. to feel the vibe.

During day time, you can visit Bay Mau Coconut Forest boat tour ~ 100.000 VND per person. During nighttime, you do have the option to be on a boat and float along the Thu Bon River, and you can also place a lantern on the river and have a wish (it is the tradition of the local people on the 15th of each month on Lunar Calendar but because of tourism, they now do it everyday!).

Breakfast: At the Hotel. Lunch: Madam Khanh – 2nd famous Banh My shop in Hoi An Dinner: You can also find great food in Hoi An in both Western and Eastern styles. Hong Phuc II Restaurant – Best pizza in town

Hotel:  It depends on where you want to stay, but I always prefer a quiet area. So this recommendation is quite far away from the old town, you can take a cab to the old town (around 100.000 VND one way). Another upside of this hotel is that the hidden An Bang beach is just across the road. Phuc Hung Riverside Villa

Just 30km and you can do it in an hour. Along the way, you can visit the Marble Mountains – You can visit Buddhist sculptures inside a cave and also they depict the 18 floors of hell inside the Am Phu Cave.

After that, it will be a short drive around the Son Tra Peninsula .

Videos View All

South West Hanoi Motorbike loop All you need to know

Motorbike lessons every tourist needs!

North West Motorbike Tours - Real Offroad Tours

Escape Saigon tour - 1 day dirt bike trip from Saigon

How to drive in the crazy traffic of Vietnam

Honda XR 150 - BEST motorbike for Vietnam

How to lube your motorcycle chain Vietnam rental

Leaving your bag and motorbike unattended in Vietnam

Honda Winner 150 the right bike for you?

How to deal with flat tires in Vietnam

Saigon to Danang motorbike, the non tourist route

Border crossing with a motorbike, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Thailand

Everything you need to know about hotels in Vietnam

Offroad Enduro Motocross training Hanoi City

North West Vietnam Adventure Enduro Motorbike Tour

Related posts.

The South West of Hanoi 3 to 4 day motorbike loop

Offroad and History Da Nang loop – 5 days

Route Research Ho Chi Minh To Danang

Offroad Ha Giang loop – 4 days

Offroad to The North West – Loop 4 days

The North West 7 days – No plan is a good plan

Mekong Delta Maps & Musings

Ha Giang Loop 7 days by Tigit Motorbike tour guides

Share article, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name and email in this browser for the next time I comment.

(your message will only be visible after moderation)

For a quick response use Facebook Chat.

Leave a Message

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

• From Hanoi To Ho Chi Minh That Include A Complete Vietnam Travel Guide

12 Jun 2024

Are you planning to visit Vietnam in 2024? With its rich culture and natural beauty, Vietnam has become a preferred tourist destination for Indians. The perfect Vietnam travel guide has it all – stunning landscapes, busy cities and amazing food! A major perk is that the white sand beaches and emerald paddy fields offer beautiful backdrops for insta-perfect pictures. Here’s a comprehensive Vietnam travel guide to ensure you enjoy your visit to the fullest. Scroll down to read more about the best places to visit and Vietnam travel tips you should not miss.

Vietnam Travel Guide To Explore Culinary Delights

Image Source: Shutterstock

Travelling means a lot of cheat meals. So, starting any plan with food is a must. Pack your taste buds for a wild ride through flavours in our travel guide for Vietnam! Slurp on steaming bowls of pho in Hanoi’s bustling streets and munch on crispy banh mi while you cruise through the chaotic traffic of Ho Chi Minh City. We’re just getting started… You can extend your adventure by uncovering hidden gems like the delicate flavours of Hoi An’s cao lau and a fiery bun bo Hue. Visit local markets to bargain for the crunchiest greens and fresh catch. Don’t forget to grab the chopsticks because Vietnam’s food is a flavour-packed rollercoaster you won’t want to miss. You can try noodle soups, banh mi sandwiches, herb and pickle rice paper rolls, or a bowl of comforting mushroom congee if you’re vegetarian.

Must Read: Heritage Sites In Vietnam

North Vietnam Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit

Here are some top picks from our travel guide for Vietnam’s northern region. Fascinating ethnic groups, centuries-old rice terraces, and majestic mountain ranges make a strong statement here. The best time to visit North Vietnam is when Northern Vietnam has pleasant weather from October to December.

1. Hanoi: Join The Locals And Explore Cafe Culture

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi, has popular tourist destinations. Walk through the Old Quarter, where time stands still within colonial facades. Go west of the French Quarter to discover an array of cafe culture, modernity and urban refinement as trendy cafes, classic eateries, and vibrant art galleries help rediscover the forgotten charms of the old city. The nightlife here is also electric, from contemporary chic rooftop bars to boisterous bia hoi joints overflowing with hungry locals looking for cultural experiences. Lastly, you should not miss sampling street food delicacies like pho and bún cha. For a more immersive experience, you can join the locals at Hoan Kiem Lake, a hub for morning walks, yoga groups and aerobic classes.

How to travel: Noi Bai International Airport is 45 km from the city centre. The Reunification Express trains to major destinations, including Dong Hoi (Phong Nha) and Lao Cai (Sapa). Popular tourist attractions: Old Quarter, Fine Arts Museum, Hoan Kiem Lake Best time to visit: April to June, September to October

2. Halong: Cruise the bay and explore floating villages

Halong Bay is crucial in every North Vietnam travel guide and symbolises Vietnam’s natural beauty. Tourists can board cruise ships that glide through the emerald waters and spend calm mornings among limestone karsts. Floating villages are a huge hit here and have centuries-old fishing communities. You can try kayaking through the lagoons to discover hidden caves. For adventure seekers, several rock climbing spots and cliffs are above the water. Moreover, there are plenty of ancient caves to explore the history and culture of Vietnam.

How to travel: Tourists usually take Halong Bay packages to and from Hanoi for transportation. Popular tourist attractions: Ha Long Bay, Floating Village, Butterfly Island Best time to visit: September to May

Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Hoi An

3. Ha Giang: Get Lost In The Hills And Visit The King Of Flagpoles

Vietnam’s far north hides the secret of the remote landscapes of Ha Giang. Hop on a motorcycle and explore the timeless charm of its ethnic villages and towns. The Ma Pi Leng Pass is another famous spot for motorcyclists, and it runs along the Nho Que River. For breathtaking views from Heaven’s Gate, you can trek through Quan Ba Pass and explore the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark. The Sa Phin H’Mong Palace is a historic reminder of the French colonial influence. A trip to Ha Giang ends with a visit to Lung Cu, where the Vietnamese flags wave proudly.

How to travel: Ha Giang is 300 km from Hanoi. You can take the bus, including sleepers or VIP minivans. Popular tourist attractions: Ma Pi Leng Pass, Sa Phin H’Mong Palace, Lung Cu Best time to visit: September to November

4. Ninh Binh: Take A Sampan Tour And Search For Wildlife

Ninh Binh, also known as the ‘Ha Long Bay on land’, is another hidden gem. Limestone formations are a key attraction in this region. It’s also home to a UNESCO-protected site where you can take a paddleboat tour. Hang Mua lies 500 steps above the land, with views of lush paddies and rivers. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, you can visit the Van Long Wildlife Sanctuary to spot rare species like the Delacour’s langur and black-faced spoonbill. The Bai Binh Temple offers a spiritual end to this visit and is the largest Buddhist temple complex in the country.

How to travel: You can take the bus from Ninh Binh to Hanoi or book luxury vans for Tam Coc. Popular tourist attractions: Tam Coc and Trang An boat docks, Hang Mua, Bai Dinh Temple Best time to visit: March to May, September to November

Suggested Read: Tam Coc in Vietnam

South Vietnam Travel Guide: Best Places To Visit

A Vietnam travel guide is incomplete without exploring the southern region. The mellow countryside and island escapes make it a wonderful choice for travellers. Ho Chi Minh has the urban energy for a sensory overload. And you’ll not regret visiting the Mekong Delta. The best time to visit South Vietnam is when the weather is dry; December to May is the best time to visit South Vietnam. However, the temperature may be hot and humid between March and May.

Scroll down to check out more details and plan your Vietnam trip.

Binh Thuan: Enjoy sandboarding at the dunes of Bau Trang or Mui Ne

1. Ho Chi Minh City: Explore The Bustling City Life Of Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh is not to be missed in any Vietnam travel guide. It is the economic centre of Vietnam. In Ho Chi Minh, the old blends with the new. You can visit iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Opera House and the Ben Thanh Market. In District 1, repurposed buildings house charming boutiques. The food culture is also delightful, including the savoury banh mi and fragrant bánh xèo.

How to travel: Tan Son Nhat International Airport is the hub for domestic and international flights. The city is well-connected by a network of buses, trains and shuttles. Popular tourist attractions: Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Opera House, Ben Thanh Market

Best time to visit: All around the year

2. Phu Quoc: Relax At serene beaches

Phu Quoc is a tropical paradise with pristine beaches like Long Beach. You can also explore some hidden and secluded beaches, including Ganh Dau and Bai Thom. The island has a mountain range with rock pools, waterfalls, and caves for adventure seekers. Ham Hinh is a traditional fishing village you may want to explore. A must-try is the fish sauce, a fermented Vietnamese delicacy.

Popular tourist attractions: Long Beach, Ganh Dau, Bai Thom Best time to visit: All around the year

Suggested Read: Hai Phong Nightlife

3. Binh Thuan: Enjoy Sandboarding At The Dunes Of Bau Trang Or Mui Ne

Bin Thuan is one of the best-kept secrets of local travellers in Vietnam. It has ancient Poshanu Cham Tower temples and Buddhist temples atop Ta Cu Mountain, with the largest reclining Buddha statue in Vietnam. If you seek some thrill, the sand dunes of Bau Trang or Mui Ne are the right place for you. You can enjoy 4×4 dune bashing, sand gliding, and sandboarding here. The sparkling ‘fairy stream’ Suoi Hong is a serene place to relax after a long day.

How to travel: Take a bus or train from Ho Chi Minh or Nha Trang to Phan Thiet and then a taxi to the city. Popular tourist attractions: Suoi Hong, Bau Trang, Mui Ne, Poshanu Cham Tower temples Best time to visit: November to April

Vietnam Travel Tips: An Unforgettable Experience Through The Land Of The Blue Dragon

What makes the best Vietnam travel guide? It’s tips and precautionary measures to ensure safe travel. Here are some things you must be aware of:

• Vietnamese society is relatively tolerant and conservative due to the influence of Confucianism and Buddhism. While you may wear sleeveless shirts and shorts to the beach, it is not recommended in pagodas and temples.
• Tipping is appreciated but unexpected, and a few thousand Dong is sufficient.
• As Dong is unavailable outside Vietnam, make sure you carry American Dollar bills in small denominations.
• Always check the change you receive at local markets. For instance, vendors sometimes give back 20,000 Dong instead of the 200,000 Dong bill.

Further Read: Hambantota Travel Guide

Now that you know the best places to visit in South and North Vietnam, you can immediately plan your trip to Vietnam . The food, culture, and landscape will make your trip memorable for you and your loved ones.

For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer, please click here .

Cover Image Source: Shutterstock

Frequently Asked Questions About Vietnam Travel Guide

How many days are enough to explore Vietnam?

One to three weeks are enough to explore Vietnam, depending on your budget and how much you’d like to explore.

What is the best time to visit Vietnam?

The weather in Vietnam varies according to the region. Generally, visiting between September to November or March to April is best if you’re planning to explore the country.

Is Vietnam cheap to travel?

Vietnam is popular among budget travellers due to its affordability. Travel, accommodation, activities, and food costs are much lower compared to Western and European destinations.

How much money do I need for a 1-week trip to Vietnam?

A budget trip to Vietnam can cost between $600-$1000 per person, while a luxury experience can cost over $2000.

Should I visit Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi in Vietnam?

Ho Chi Minh is a hub for city life, art, and commerce, while Hanoi is the cultural capital. A complete travel guide to Vietnam would include both regions. However, your itinerary can choose one depending on your budget and duration of your trip.

People Also Read:

Greenland Travel Guide Sofia Travel Guide Kalutara Travel Guide

Recent Posts

Exploring The Nature’s Symphony At Khlong Chak In 2024

Girija Devi Temple Is A Spiritual Haven In Uttarakhand In 2024

Unveiling The Idyllic Paradise Of Yung Island In 2024

Experience The Magic Of Thailand At Koh Poda In 2024

Visit Hanuman Chatti To Admire The Beauty Of Nature

Visit Srah Srang For A Wholesome Experience In Cambodia In 2024

Trending Blogs

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2024 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

• TravelTriangle
• International
• Vietnam »
• Tour Packages
• Honeymoon Packages
• Family Packages
• Budget Tour Packages
• Luxury Tour Packages
• Adventure Tour Packages
• Group Tour Packages
• Maldives Tour Packages
• Bali Tour Packages
• Dubai Tour Packages
• Singapore Tour Packages
• Thailand Tour Packages
• Europe Tour Packages
• Sri Lanka Tour Packages
• Tour Packages From Delhi
• Tour Packages From Mumbai
• Tour Packages From Bangalore
• Tour Packages From Chennai
• Tour Packages From Kolkata
• Tour Packages From Hyderabad
• Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
• Thailand Tourism
• Bali Tourism
• Singapore Tourism
• Maldives Tourism
• Mauritius Tourism
• Dubai Tourism
• Europe Tourism
• Hotels in Thailand
• Hotels in Maldives
• Hotels in Mauritius
• Hotels in Bali
• Hotels in Dubai
• Hotels in Singapore
• Hotels in Sri Lanka

• Kindle Store
• Kindle eBooks

Promotions apply when you purchase

These promotions will be applied to this item:

Some promotions may be combined; others are not eligible to be combined with other offers. For details, please see the Terms & Conditions associated with these promotions.

Buy for others

Buying and sending ebooks to others.

• Select quantity
• Buy and send eBooks
• Recipients can read on any device

These ebooks can only be redeemed by recipients in the US. Redemption links and eBooks cannot be resold.

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet, or computer - no Kindle device required .

Read instantly on your browser with Kindle for Web.

Using your mobile phone camera - scan the code below and download the Kindle app.

Image Unavailable

• To view this video download Flash Player

Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide 2024: Discover the Vibrant Culture, Delicious Cuisine, and Rich History of Vietnam's Bustling Metropolis Kindle Edition

Are you prepared to face the hurdles of preparing a vacation to Ho Chi Minh City? Do you wish to easily traverse this dynamic metropolis, discover its hidden jewels, and experience its rich culture like a local? If so, the "Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide 2024" is the ideal option. This detailed guide addresses three main issues:

1. Navigating the City: Understanding the intricate layout of Ho Chi Minh City. 2. Finding Top Attractions: Identifying must-see locations and experiences. 3. Cultural Immersion: Learning about the local culture and history will enrich your experience. Why This Book Is Your Ideal Travel Companion: 1. Detailed Map: Easily navigate the city with detailed map. 2. In-Depth History: Learn about Ho Chi Minh City's rich history and enhance your respect for its sites. 3. Comprehensive Planning Tips: Plan your vacation with ease thanks to extensive sections on flights, transportation, and lodging. 4. Top Attractions: Visit the city's top attractions, such as the Reunification Palace and the War Remnants Museum. 5. Discover religious and cultural landmarks including the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Fine Arts Museum. 6. Discover the greatest areas, including District 1, District 3, and Cholon (Chinatown). 7. Must-Try Dishes: Try the best of Vietnamese cuisine, including pho, banh mi, and goi cuon. 8. Shopping and Nightlife: Discover the top shopping and nightlife destinations. 9. Day Trips: Arrange fascinating day trips and excursions. 10. Do's and Don'ts: Feel confident when navigating cultural conventions and etiquette. How This Book Addresses Your Travel Issues: Navigating the City: Detailed maps and transportation information can help you get around. Top Attractions: With a carefully curated list of must-see locations, you won't miss any of the highlights. Cultural Immersion: Learn about Ho Chi Minh City's history, geography, and culture to enhance your experience. What To Expect: A thorough trip itinerary personalized to your preferences and schedule. Insider recommendations for the best places to dine, shop, and explore. Essential Vietnamese phrases to help you converse with the locals. Guides to historical and cultural places offer a thorough insight of the city's heritage. Practical guidance on lodging options for any budget. Don't pass up the opportunity to make your trip to Ho Chi Minh City unique. Purchase the "Ho Chi Minh City Travel Guide 2024" immediately and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

• Print length 111 pages
• Language English
• Sticky notes On Kindle Scribe
• Publication date June 5, 2024
• File size 2165 KB
• Page Flip Enabled
• Word Wise Enabled
• Enhanced typesetting Enabled
• See all details

Customers who viewed this item also viewed

Product details

• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0D6BCBWCS
• Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 5, 2024
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• File size ‏ : ‎ 2165 KB
• Simultaneous device usage ‏ : ‎ Unlimited
• Text-to-Speech ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Screen Reader ‏ : ‎ Supported
• Enhanced typesetting ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• X-Ray ‏ : ‎ Not Enabled
• Word Wise ‏ : ‎ Enabled
• Sticky notes ‏ : ‎ On Kindle Scribe
• Print length ‏ : ‎ 111 pages

Customer reviews

Our goal is to make sure every review is trustworthy and useful. That's why we use both technology and human investigators to block fake reviews before customers ever see them.  Learn more

We block Amazon accounts that violate our community guidelines. We also block sellers who buy reviews and take legal actions against parties who provide these reviews.  Learn how to report

No customer reviews

Report an issue.

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices