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Day tours from Ho Chi Minh City offer a plethora of opportunities for exploring the vibrant and bustling metropolis of Vietnam. From historical sites to natural wonders, there is something for everyone. In this travel blog, we will explore the top 5 must-do activities that will give you the best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, history enthusiast, or food lover, these activities will leave you with lasting memories.
Experience the wartime tunnels with Cu Chi Tunnels
- Travel time: 3 hours (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
No visit to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without experiencing the The Cu Chi Tunnels,, an expansive network of underground passageways that played a crucial role in the Vietnam War. Descend into these claustrophobic corridors and feel the weight of history as you learn about the ingenious ways the Viet Cong used the tunnels for tactical advantage. Crawl through the tight spaces just as the soldiers did, and marvel at the resourcefulness and resilience of the Vietnamese people.
Your guide will bring the tunnels to life, sharing personal accounts and historical details that will give you a profound appreciation for the sacrifices made during this pivotal chapter of the war. Venture deeper underground to explore the field hospitals, command centers, and booby traps that kept the Viet Cong one step ahead of their opponents. Emerging from the darkness, you’ll gain a newfound respect for the determination and ingenuity of the Vietnamese forces that ultimately led to their victory.
Tasting the tranquil of Vietnamese countryside at Ben Tre and My Tho
- Travel time: 2 hours (round trip)
- Duration: 5-6 hours
If you don’t have time for an overnight trip to the Mekong Delta, the sister cities of Ben Tre and My Tho provide a rewarding glimpse of southern country life just two hours south of Ho Chi Minh City. Ben Tre, the so-called Coconut Capital of Vietnam, lies across the Mekong River from the more developed city of My Tho. Both make for a quaint getaway based around fruit orchards, local pagodas, intriguing cottage industries, and detours to surprisingly rural villages off the main highway.
Explore the four inhabited river islands between the two cities, where you can visit bee farms, coconut candy factories, and scenic orchards while being serenaded by Vietnamese folk singers. Hop on a boat tour to fully immerse yourself in the serene waterways and witness the daily life of the local communities. Savor freshly-picked tropical fruits, watch skilled artisans at work, and step into a world far removed from the bustling streets of Saigon.
Escape the hustle and bustle by lie out on Vung Tau’s beach
- Travel time: 2 hours (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
Known as Cap Saint-Jacques during the French colonial era, Vung Tau offers a refreshing respite from the urban intensity of Ho Chi Minh City. The city’s handful of respectable beaches provide the perfect opportunity to relax and soak up the coastal vibes. Lay out in style at the Beach Club at the Imperial Hotel, modeled after a Roman bathhouse with an infinity pool and sun loungers. For a quieter experience, head to the up-and-coming resort area of Ho Tram, where you can practically have the whole stretch of beach to yourself.
When you work up an appetite, indulge in freshly caught seafood at Ganh Hao, a no-frills but popular spot overlooking the water. With its combination of beach resorts, historical landmarks, and serene natural beauty, Vung Tau is an ideal day trip destination to escape the hustle and bustle of Saigon.
One day being a farmer in Tay Ninh
- Travel time: 2 hours (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
An easy add-on to a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels, the Cao Dai Holy See at Tay Ninh offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s homegrown religion of Caodaism. This elaborate and colorful temple, once described as the “Walt Disney Fantasia of the East,” fuses elements of Confucianism, Taoism, Buddhism, and Christianity. Witness the midday prayers attended by devotees dressed in white and observe the remarkable architectural details, from the dragon-wrapped columns to the mural depicting influential figures from different faiths.
Beyond the temple, Tay Ninh provides a chance to experience rural Vietnamese life. Venture off the main roads and explore the local markets, cottage industries, and agricultural landscapes that showcase the traditional way of life. Immerse yourself in the tranquil pace of the countryside and gain a deeper appreciation for the country’s cultural tapestry.
Get around mangrove forests in Can Gio
- Travel time: 2 hours (round trip)
- Duration: 4-5 hours
Exchange the urban jungle for a much greener version in the UNESCO-listed Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, about 40km southeast of Ho Chi Minh City. This vast area of wetlands, salt marshes, and mangrove forest is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including king cobras, saltwater crocodiles, and over 130 bird species.
Cruise the lagoon in a rowboat, keeping an eye out for the resident wildlife, or climb up a 25-meter-high observation tower to survey the treetops. Witness the “green lungs” of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of these delicate ecosystems. Whether you’re spotting rare birds or simply admiring the serene natural beauty, Can Gio offers a refreshing respite from the bustling city.
>> For a best day tours from Ho Chi Minh City, what should you eat? Find out now:
Food Tour Ho Chi Minh City – Top 10+ Best Dishes
From learning Vietnam War History in Cu Chi Tunnel to experience one day being a farmer in Tay Ninh, day tours from Ho Chi Minh City have you all to everything. So pack your bags, lace up your shoes, and get ready to uncover the hidden gems that lie beyond the bustling streets of Saigon.
>> You can explore more activities to do when visiting Vietnam here!
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Whenever you find day tours from Ho Chi Minh or Vietnam package tours, don’t hesitate to contact Asia Encounter. Our team with love and passion for travel all around Southeast Asia will always welcome you warmly!
