8:00 - 8:15: Our guide and bus pick you up at your hotel to visit The Reunification Palace. Here on April 30, 1975, what the Vietnamese refer to as the 'American War' officially ended when tank number 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of what was, at the time, the residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam. After that, visit War Remnants Museum which was formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this is a poignant display of the futility of war. Some of the black and white photography in the 'Requiem' exhibit is particularly touching, dedicated to both foreign and Vietnamese journalists and photographers who perished during the conflict. The courtyard outside contains the spoils of war, namely rusting jets, tanks and cannons captured from the American military machine.
And then, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office: Built between 1877 and 1883 this is one of the best examples of classical French colonial architecture. Remarkably every stone used in its creation was shipped from France to Vietnam. The Old Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture and is also the country's largest post office.
Have lunch in local restaurant with typical Vietnamese dishes.
In the afternoon, we go to Giac Lam Pagoda: This is HCMC's oldest pagoda, dating back to 1744 and one of the finest in Vietnam. Inside, 98 pillars and 113 statues and myriad mini-Buddha's vie for your attention. We head to Cholon, including the Thien Hau Pagoda The district is home to the city's 400,000 Chinese and has many beautiful temples and pagodas.
The last destination we are visiting is Ben Thanh Market. This bustling and well-organized market is very popular with tourists, primarily due to its central location. It has a wide selection of goods ranging from fake Nike shoes to beautiful silk Ao Dai.
Tour ends about 16:30
What you should bring?
This is the tour inside city, you should take hat, umbrella, bottled water and short clothes to make sure that you enjoy the whole tour.
Tour excluded:
Drink, entrance fee, insurance, government tax and others not clearly mentioned above
