Today, you will fly from your chosen airport to Ho Chi Minh City, with connecting flight(s) along the way.

You will arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, where you will pass through immigration and collect your luggage. In the arrivals hall, you will be greeted by your local guide, who is ready with a TourCompass sign, and from here, you’ll be driven to your centrally located hotel in the heart of the city.

Upon arrival at the hotel, you’ll check in, and then have the rest of the day at your own leisure.

Today offers an exciting guided city tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Your guide and driver will pick you up from the hotel, and the first stop is the impressive Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, an overlooked gem among the city’s temples. Here, you can discover classic Vietnamese architecture characterised by finely carved wooden details and a particularly peaceful atmosphere. The pagoda houses a large Buddha statue and a tranquil sacred area dedicated to the Mother Goddesses, considered the female protectors of nature’s forces and human prosperity.

The tour continues to the poignant War Remnants Museum, where you will gain deep insight into Vietnam’s dramatic history. The exhibitions depict the harsh realities of war and its human consequences.

The tour then heads to the historical Reunification Palace, the place where the Vietnam War, or the American War as the Vietnamese call it, officially concluded. On April 30^th, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the palace gates, marking the end of a bloody conflict that claimed the lives of around 58,000 Americans and 3 million Vietnamese.

Next, you’ll visit the Old Post Office, an architectural masterpiece designed by the world-renowned French engineer Gustave Eiffel. With its beautiful arches, intricate iron constructions, and historic atmosphere, the building bears witness to the colonial influence on Ho Chi Minh City.

Directly opposite the Old Post Office lies the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral, constructed between 1863 and 1880. The cathedral is an impressive remnant of the French colonial era with its distinctive red bricks and towering spires. Facing the church, behind you stands a grey building that history enthusiasts might recognise: “Pittman Apartments” at 22 Gia Long Street. This building became globally famous when Dutch photographer Hubert van Es captured an iconic image on April 29th, 1975 of a helicopter landing on its roof during the fall of Saigon. Many believed it to be the American embassy, but it actually housed the American aid office, USAID, and CIA officer Conrad LaGueux. The picture captured the dramatic moment American staff were evacuated at the last minute as North Vietnamese troops approached the city.

From here, stroll down the elegant street, Dong Khoi, one of Saigon’s most iconic boulevards. Amidst upscale shops and historic buildings, you’ll feel the city’s pulse and might recognise the atmosphere from Graham Greene’s classic novel ‘The Quiet American’, where the street played a central role.

The excursion concludes at the Saigon Opera House, a stunning example of French colonial architecture constructed in 1901, and a vibrant symbol of the city’s cultural heritage.

You may choose to be driven back to your hotel or remain in the area for lunch. Discover a charming eatery and indulge in some of Vietnam’s most beloved dishes, such as pho (noodle soup), banh xeo (crispy pancakes), or fresh spring rolls.

Today you will have the opportunity to explore Ho Chi Minh City at your own pace. The city is full of contrasts, from historic landmarks and colourful markets to modern skyscrapers and cosy coffee shops.

If shopping and local city life are your thing, venture into the bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you’ll find everything from street food and exotic fruits to textiles and handmade souvenirs. For a more modern shopping atmosphere, Saigon Square and Saigon Centre offer a wide selection of international brands.

When you need a break, it’s a good idea to settle down in one of the city’s many cosy coffee shops. Here, you can enjoy a cup of Vietnamese iced coffee while watching the bustling street life.

In the evening, take a stroll down the broad pedestrian street, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, stretching from the Town Hall to the Saigon River. Here, locals and tourists mingle amidst street performers, light shows, and a uniquely lively evening atmosphere. From here, it’s a perfect opportunity to end the day in one of the city’s skyscrapers, such as the Bitexco Financial Tower or Landmark 81, which offer stunning panoramic views over the illuminated Ho Chi Minh City.

You might also choose from our exciting optional tours, which you can read about below.

After breakfast, you will be collected by your guide and driver, as today the journey takes you towards the lush Mekong Delta, one of Vietnam’s most fertile and life-sustaining regions. The Mekong River, with its origins in the Himalayas, runs 4,500 km through six countries before branching into the vast delta area south of Ho Chi Minh City. The delta spans about 40,000 square kilometres, but how much is underwater depends on the intensity of the rainy season and changing seasons.

You won’t travel far from Ho Chi Minh City before the landscape starts to transform. Along the road, you’ll see green fields and pass small rivers and canals winding through the flat terrain. It’s not uncommon to spot local farmers working the fields, water buffalo grazing along the edge, and roadside stalls tempting with fresh fruit.

The climate here is ideal for agriculture, and many farmers plant and harvest up to three crops a year. With its large production of rice, fruit, and vegetables, the delta is rightfully known as Vietnam’s food bowl.

After about two hours of driving, you’ll reach the town of My Tho, the gateway to the mighty Mekong Delta. Here, you will board a traditional, motorised sampan boat made of wood, and from here, you will glide through the broad river waters, sailing around the Tan My and Thoi Son islands. On your way, you’ll pass numerous floating fish farms and houseboats that have been moored here for generations and continue to serve as homes and workplaces for many families.

You will stop at one of the fish farms, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet local fishermen, hear about their daily lives, and learn more about the area’s fishing industry. Then, you’ll board a smaller rowing boat and quietly glide through narrow canals, surrounded by dense water coconut palms.

Back on land, you’ll swap the boat for a bicycle to explore a verdant, lush island covered in fruit plantations with grapefruit, coconuts, bananas, durian, jackfruit, and longan. Along the way, you’ll visit a local family and gain insight into mushroom cultivation – a process requiring both experience and patience.

You will also visit Mr. Hai Phuong, where you will experience his diverse farm with cows, pigs, chickens, and a small fish pond. Here, you’ll also have the chance to taste fresh fruit that you pick directly from the trees.

Your cycling continues to a local family’s home for a lunch stop, where you’ll be served a delicious meal of local Mekong region specialities. At the same time, you’ll get to watch the host prepare banh khot, small crispy pancakes and a local favourite.

After lunch, continue the cycling tour on small paths through the island’s tranquil backstreets. Along the way, visit local artisans and small, family-run productions. You’ll see how homemade spirits are produced and visit a small apiary where you can see old tools used in agriculture and fishing. Here, you’ll also meet a skilled craftsman who weaves hats, baskets, and jewellery from water hyacinth and straw.

Finally, you’ll board the boat again, which will take you back to the mainland. Here, you’ll say goodbye to the captain and will be driven back to your hotel in Ho Chi Minh City, arriving in the late afternoon.

Today, you will leave Ho Chi Minh City and head towards the coastal town of Mui Ne – a journey of approximately 3 hours. Along the way, you’ll notice a distinct shift from the bustling city pace to the tranquillity of the sun-soaked beaches.

Upon arrival at the hotel, check-in takes place, and the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Get out your swimwear and savour a relaxing moment by the hotel’s pool or on the golden sandy beach.

The following days are designated for relaxation and your own adventures.

Mui Ne initially started as a small fishing village but has since evolved into a charming beach holiday destination. Here, you can relish broad, golden beaches with soft sand and a warm, inviting sea. Along the coast, you’ll find small, local restaurants where you can taste authentic Vietnamese dishes in relaxed settings.

The area is particularly famous for its impressive sand dunes, which the sea breeze continuously shapes into undulating landscapes, reminiscent of the Sahara.

To the south, on the road to Phan Thiet, you’ll discover the historic Po Shanu Cham towers, built by the Cham people in the 9th century. Beside them lies a beautiful Chinese temple. From the hilltop where these structures stand, you’ll have a magnificent view of the coast and sea.

As the sun sets, you can enjoy an evening stroll along the coastal road, stretching over 10 kilometres. Here, you’ll find cosy cafés, small shops, and restaurants. Alternatively, you can head into Phan Thiet to purchase the famous fish sauce, which is known and loved throughout Vietnam.

Today marks the start of your journey home. You will be picked up at the hotel and driven to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. From here, your flight back to Europe begins, with connecting flights along the way.

You will arrive at your chosen airport after a delightful tour filled with countless new experiences and well-deserved relaxation.