Top 10 Vietnam excursions from Saigon

If you're planning a trip to Saigon, also known as Ho Chi Minh City, and are looking for some exciting excursions to explore the beauty of Vietnam, then this article is for you. We have curated a list of the top 10 Vietnam excursions from Saigon that you don't want to miss.

1. Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Saigon (Day Tour)

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The Saigon - My Tho - Ben Tre - Saigon tour will take you to unique experiences and discover the colorful land of the Mekong Delta. The tour starts from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) with the first destination being the city of My Tho. Some highlights of the tour include:

• Con Lan: a fresh orchard, paddling a three-leafed boat to admire the beautiful scenery of the river and water.

• Con Phung: immersing yourself in the Coconut Religion, admiring unique structures.

• Bee farm: exploring the "sweet taste of homeland", enjoying fragrant honey tea.

• Coconut candy factory: trying your hand at making coconut candy, listening to the traditional music of Don Ca Tai Tu, and tasting local fruits.

• Vinh Trang Pagoda: admiring the grand architecture of the largest pagoda in Tien Giang province.​

2. Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho - Saigon

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On this excursion, besides the landmarks mentioned in part 1, you will be taken to a beautiful city - Can Tho. Here, you will experience the Cai Rang floating market in the early morning mist, enjoy picking fruit right at the orchard, and savor the cultural cuisine of the Mekong Delta. We introduce you to some highlights as follows:

• Cai Rang floating market, one of the largest floating markets in the Mekong Delta, where you can learn about the unique trading culture on the river of the people in the South.

• Boat and walking tour to visit rice noodle and rice paper factories.

• The Purple House, a new tourist destination in Can Tho with a green space, a purple house, and a lovely purple photo corner.

• Vua Hung Temple with unique architecture will surely be a not-to-be-missed destination when exploring the Mekong Delta.

3. Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Tra Vinh – Can Tho – Saigon

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In this journey, we have a new destination which is Tra Vinh, a province in the Mekong Delta region surrounded by two rivers, Co Chien and Hau, and bordered by the sea. Let's explore some typical tourist destinations in Tra Vinh with Vietnam Original Travel to understand why this land is so attractive!

• Ao Ba Om is a cluster of lakes and ponds - with lush green trees creating a cool climate all year round. It is also known as Vuong Lake, a peaceful and clear water lake, stretching about 500m long and 300m wide. Surrounding the lake are sandy hills with hundreds of ancient trees, most of which are Star trees and Oil trees with large roots protruding from the ground, forming many interesting shapes.

• Next to the lake is the Museum of Culture - a place displaying artifacts that are characteristic of the Khmer people's way of life. Across from the museum is Ang Pagoda, considered the most ancient, unique, and beautiful temple among the system of over 140 Khmer pagodas in Tra Vinh.

• The Cu Lao Long Tri tourist area captures the hearts of visitors with a series of exciting activities and delicious food, such as boat rowing, fishing, cycling around the tourist area, and visiting the abundant fruit garden.

• Tra Vinh market is the main market of the city, and you will be excited to witness the bustling buying and selling space of Tra Vinh's small traders. Stop by the market and choose some specialties as gifts for your family, and enjoy all the famous delicacies, which is a perfect thing to do for your Tra Vinh tour.

>>> We organize some Vietnam excursions to these destinations. Read our tours here.

4. Saigon – My Tho – Ben Tre – Can Tho – Chau Doc – Saigon

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If you don't go to Tra Vinh, this excursion will still be complete if you visit Chau Doc - a city located next to the Vietnam - Cambodia border, an area with a rich history and a strong influence of Southern culture during the era of expanding territories.

When in Chau Doc, you should visit these famous tourist spots:

• Tra Su Cajuput Forest is a unique destination that you shouldn't miss. This place is not only a gathering place of many tall and green cajuput trees but also a fun and memorable experience for you to explore by boat.

• Chau Doc Market, located in the city center, is not only a place for tourists to buy An Giang specialties as gifts for their families, but also an interesting place to walk and visit. The market sells many diverse items, from clothing to fresh seafood, vegetables, and fruits.

• Sam Mountain, located in Vinh Te Commune, is a beautiful and majestic mountain landscape. When visiting Sam Mountain, you can experience the feeling of climbing a mountain and take pictures for your memorable check-in!

• Ba Chua Xu Temple on Sam Mountain is not only a tourist destination but also a famous spiritual place that reflects the belief in the Mother Goddess of the Vietnamese people. Many people from the Mekong Delta and even foreigners come to visit and pray for good luck.

• Tay An Pagoda is a temple that you can visit when traveling around the majestic Sam Mountain. When coming to Tay An Pagoda, tourists can experience exciting activities during festivals or simply find a peaceful space to relax.

5. Saigon – Can Tho – Chau Doc – Ha Tien – Phu Quoc

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Great tourist destinations in Can Tho and Chau Doc have been mentioned in the previous parts. In this Vietnam excursion, tourists can choose the following destinations in Ha Tien:

• Mac Ancestral Temple: The tombs of the Mac family are all located on Binh San Mountain with a very picturesque scenery. This is a place of worship for the people who have contributed to the discovery of this ancient land by the Mac family. The sanctity and tranquility of this place have truly attracted many tourists from all over to come to pay respect and visit.

• Thach Dong is one of the very attractive tourist destinations not only because of its magnificent scenery but also because of the legend of Thach Sanh rescuing the princess. This is a destination in My Duc commune, about 5 km from the center of Ha Tien. You can easily get there by motorcycle or car.

• It would be a great omission if you come to Ha Tien without visiting the night market here. The night market is located right in the city center with convenient transportation and easy to find. Coming to the Ha Tien night market, tourists will experience the essence of the Vietnamese - Chinese - Khmer cultural exchange with colorful stalls, various types of goods, souvenirs, and delicious Ha Tien specialties.

The next destination is Phu Quoc - a beautiful island with serene and pristine natural scenery. Here are some of the must-visit destinations on the island:

• Phu Quoc Prison, located at 350 Nguyen Van Cu, An Thoi Commune, was once a place where South Vietnamese soldiers were held captive. In 1995, the prison was recognized as a national historical monument and opened to visitors. Here, you can learn about the heroic but also terrifying history of the Vietnamese people with the dark and numerous punishments in the gloomy prison cells.

• When it comes to Phu Quoc, no one can forget about the famous fish sauce - a national delicacy of Vietnam. Therefore, it would be a great pity if you missed the chance to visit the fish sauce factories. This is an opportunity for you to learn how the locals here produce the rich and flavorful fish sauce, visit the large wooden barrels, and see how they process the fresh seafood.

• Ham Ninh fishing village in Phu Quoc has a rustic and peaceful charm. This is also the main source of seafood for the people of Phu Quoc island. The wide and cool beach in Ham Ninh is one of the most popular backgrounds for young people to take beautiful photos. This is also a favorite destination for food lovers with various fresh seafood dishes caught and prepared right on the spot.

• Phu Quoc night market: Here, you can enjoy a variety of delicious snacks, famous seafood and specialties of Phu Quoc, buy local souvenirs, and products at very affordable prices.

6. Saigon – Vung Tau – Saigon

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Located about 125km east of Saigon, Vung Tau attracts domestic and international tourists not only because of its 20km long coastline but also its various entertainment destinations suitable for all ages and all times.

• Sheep field: Located only about 70 km away from Saigon, the sheep field is a new check-in spot in Vung Tau that few people know about. In this area, there are three flocks of sheep, each with about 150 mostly used for wool and meat. But thanks to the cuteness and adorableness of the sheep, this place has become a tourist destination, a favorite photo spot for young people and couples taking wedding photos.

• Marina Wharf: The attraction for young people coming to Marina Wharf is the beautiful bridge on the sea that is breathtaking. On the water are super impressive boats with unique colorful sails. Marina Wharf is not only a photo spot for young people but also a place for couples to choose to capture beautiful moments for their wedding album.

• Coc Lake possesses a rare and enchanting beauty that makes anyone who comes here mesmerized. The deep blue seawater flows over the smooth white sand beach, while the rocks are cleverly arranged to create a romantic and beautiful scenery.

• The lighthouse is a place where you can overlook the entire city of Vung Tau, gaze at other mountains, admire the vast blue sea and the rooftops of houses. Moreover, this is a place for amateur photographers to show off their most unique and surreal photos amidst the nature that covers the land and sky. The road up to the lighthouse is beautiful and easy to navigate due to clear signs. You just need to be careful with some sharp turns. Enjoy the sea breeze and the most comfortable atmosphere.

7. Saigon – Dalat – Saigon

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When coming to Da Lat, surely everyone is fascinated by the unique beauty of this city with thousands of flowers. With its gentle weather all year round and peaceful life with friendly people, Da Lat is always the number one choice for short adventure trips or long vacations. The distance from Saigon to Dalat by road is 309km and by air is 275km.

• Langbiang Mountain Da Lat: Known as the heart of Da Lat, Langbiang Mountain is famous for outdoor activities, nature exploration, and attracts young adventurers. This is the common home of many herbs, medicinal plants, and rare birds.

• Lumiere Garden Da Lat: Lumiere Dat Lat is a space for art light exhibitions, bringing the most advanced technology applications in Vietnam into extremely impressive projection shows.

• Tuyen Lam Lake Da Lat is one of the most beautiful lakes in Da Lat. Along with Xuan Huong Lake, Tuyen Lam Lake is the green lungs of the city - where you can immerse yourself in the beautiful wind, water, clouds, and pine forest.

• If you love bonsai art, visit QUE Garden Da Lat, the largest evergreen bonsai garden in Vietnam.

• Located on Mai Anh Hill, Domaine De Marie Da Lat Cathedral is famous for its bright brownish-pink lime color, standing out in the midst of the fairy flower garden planted throughout the cathedral's grounds.

• Da Lat Night Market, also known as Am Phu Market, is located in the city center, very close to the bus stations and the city square. The night market is bustling both indoors and outdoors, making it very convenient for you to visit.

8. Saigon – Nam Cat Tien - Saigon

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Cat Tien National Park (also known as Nam Cat Tien Tourism Area) is a lush green land with an incredibly diverse system of flora and fauna. It has been recognized by UNESCO as a "World Biosphere Reserve" with hundreds of rare animal species listed in the Vietnam Red Book. 

The tourist area is only about 150km away from Sai Gon and the relatively easy route is often chosen by tourists to explore on weekends.

• Once you have set foot here, you cannot miss the most prominent activity at Bau Sau. That is to witness with your own eyes the natural habitat of over 60 rare freshwater crocodile species.

• Visit the Dao Tien Bear Rescue Station: Dao Tien is simply a dense forest area covering 57 hectares with protective fences to conserve rare animal species. Here, there are silvered langurs, black-shanked doucs, pygmy lorises, and golden-cheeked gibbons. In particular, this is also the place to care for injured bears due to illegal hunting.

• Experience night wildlife feeding: If you plan to stay overnight at the National Park, don't miss the chance to experience watching wild animals hunt for prey at night. Exciting and stimulating, this is definitely a "one-of-a-kind" experience in your Cat Tien National Park travel itinerary!

• Explore the beauty of ethnic minorities at Ta Lai tourism village: Here, you will have the opportunity to admire the daily life of Tay, S'tieng, and Ma ethnic groups; learn about traditional hand-woven brocade; and enjoy delicious local cuisine that will capture your heart.

9. Saigon and its surroundings 

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Known as the "Pearl of the Far East" and also the largest economic and cultural center of the country, Saigon tourism has long been a familiar journey for many travelers who love this vibrant land.

City tour

• War Remnants Museum: It is a place where exhibits are displayed from the war against America to save the country. Visitors can admire the modern war machines of that time such as tanks, fighter planes, bombs, and ammunition. Especially, visitors can visit the place known as "Hell on Earth" or "Tiger Cages".

• Chinatown & Binh Tay Market is the trading center of the Vietnamese and Chinese community in Saigon. This place also preserves the intact architectural value of the Chinese people from hundreds of years ago.

• Thien Hau Pagoda, also known as Ba Cho Lon Pagoda, is one of the oldest temples of the Chinese in Ho Chi Minh City. In addition to the value of architectural art, sculpture, and antiques, it is also a place that not only meets the needs of beliefs but also brings together and supports each other of Vietnamese people of Chinese origin.

• Independence Palace was formerly the palace of the United States in South Vietnam.

• Notre-Dame Cathedral: a masterpiece of architecture - a typical work that contributes to the appearance of Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City. The project also reflects the integration, exchange, and transformation of East-West culture and architecture.

• Ho Chi Minh City Post Office: a must-visit destination for tourists when coming to Ho Chi Minh City, an ancient architectural work that is over 120 years old.

Can Gio nature reserve

Can Gio mangrove forest - A world biosphere reserve. It is a very famous destination in Vietnam. Sometimes you may hear people refer to it as the "green lungs" or the "excellent kidney" of Ho Chi Minh City.

The location is a complex consisting of terrestrial and aquatic mangrove forest species, formed on the vast alluvial plain of the Dong Nai, Saigon, Vam Co Dong, and Vam Co Tay river systems.

According to the synthesis results of the Southern Institute of Ecology, the mangrove forest vegetation system in Can Gio has recorded 296 species and groups of mangrove plants. Can Gio mangrove forest is also home to many rare and valuable plant and animal species listed in the Vietnam Red Book.

With its diverse, unique, and abundant flora and fauna, typical of a mangrove reserve, this is an ideal destination for scientific research and is also a major tourist attraction in the country.

Cu chi tunnels

Cu Chi tunnels tourism is an experience of exploring the "underground maze" - one of the famous national historical sites in Saigon. This destination offers you an exciting experience in your travel journey to the city named after Uncle Ho.

The Cu Chi tunnels tourism is currently growing because it is not only a destination of historical and cultural value, but also an attractive tourist spot associated with famous military works in Vietnam. Exploring the Cu Chi tunnels will give you and your family a meaningful and experience-rich trip.

>>> Discover Saigon city and Cu Chi tunnels Day Tour to plan fo your Vietnam excursions.

10. Saigon – boat ride on Saigon river (day tour)

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The Saigon River is known as one of the largest rivers in the city, having gone through many ups and downs and stages of development with the people of Saigon. Compared to overland tourism, a journey on the Saigon River offers a unique and impressive attraction. In addition to the famous forms and tourist destinations in Ho Chi Minh City, tourists can participate in a Saigon River tour with exciting experiences such as:

• Enjoying a diverse menu of cuisine prepared by talented chefs with professional service.

• In addition, performances of solo and ensemble pieces of ethnic musical instruments and unique dance performances will bring visitors deep impressions of Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City, a region of convergence and cultural exchange of many different ethnic groups.

>>> Discover Sunset on Saigon River by Speed Boat to complete your excursion.

These top 10 excursions from Saigon offer a glimpse into Vietnam's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, these day trips and multi-day tours are sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. So, pack your bags and embark on an adventure of a lifetime in Vietnam.