Ho Chi Minh City, often informally called
‘Saigon,’ is a vibrant metropolis rich with layers of history and modernity,
offering something for everyone on this full-day exploration.
Your journey begins at 8:30 AM with a visit to
the FITO Museum, a captivating private museum showcasing a remarkable
collection related to the history of traditional Vietnamese medicine. Here,
you’ll find artifacts from traditional pharmacies, along with valuable books
and documents.
Next, return to the city center and embark on a
walking tour through the historic district and central business area. Marvel at
the stunning architecture of City Hall, stroll down the historic Dong Khoi
Street, and admire the Continental Hotel and the Saigon Opera House before
visiting the Central Post Office. From this vantage point, you can also view
the former CIA building, notable for being the site of one of the last
helicopter evacuations in 1975.
After a well-deserved lunch break to recharge,
continue your exploration at one of the city’s most iconic landmarks—the
Reunification Palace. Preserved like a time capsule, its war rooms and lavish
displays offer a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s past.
Depending on your preference, continue either on
foot or by vehicle to one of the city’s museums. You can choose between the War
Remnants Museum, which features artifacts and photographs from the country’s
conflicts.
Conclude your day at the historic Ben Thanh
Market, a vibrant local market that remains a hub for the community and
welcomes visitors with an array of stalls.
With a deeper
understanding of Saigon's rich culture and history, you'll return to your hotel
in the late afternoon.