Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, Ho Chi Minh City has an endless array of attractions. But what if you only have half a day to explore? Don't worry, we've got you covered! Join me on this exhilarating journey as we uncover the top 3 places for a Ho Chi Minh City tour 1/2 day that will leave you enchanted and wanting more. Buckle up, and let’s get started!
Independence Palace
The first place on our tour is Dinh Độc Lập, which is also recognized as Independence Palace. It is not only the historical site but also the building, which symbolizes the victory of Vietnam gaining independence. The construction was set on the place of the former Norodom Palace, which unfortunately was destroyed during the war because of the bomb attacks. This structure was the place for the living of the President of South Vietnam who was in charge at the time of the Vietnam War. On April 30, 1975, his structure saw the finish of the war when a tank from North Vietnam broke the gate of the palace.
When you step into the Independence Palace, you are walking through history. Here are some of the highlights:
If you plan on visiting the Independence Palace, here’s what you should know.
Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is a market with a long history – it was established in the very early 17th century and grown from a small riverside market to a heart of all that can be called Vietnamese. Located at the center of the city, it is a true reflection of local life, a bustling intersection between the past and the future, between the old ways and the new ideas. It is filled with the vivid life of merchants and goods, with the irresistible smell of street foods. It is a source of colorful experience, a sightseeing must that is the best way to sink into local culture.
Ben Thanh Market is indeed overwhelming in terms of the number of impressions received. Try to:
To make the most of your visit, here are some tips:
Nha Tho Đuc Ba
The last amazing spot you should see is the amazingly mesmerizing Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, also known as the Đuc Ba Church. Constructed by the French colonists in the period of 1863–1880, it represents the French influence in the architecture with its red brick outside and two imposing bell towers. Not only does the Notre Dame Cathedral serve as a place of worship, but it also is an architectural relic in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. There, in the hub of District 1 stands beautiful and serene, inviting people to admire its beauty.
There’s much to admire and explore at the Notre Dame Cathedral:
The inside of the structure is a sight to marvel at, with graceful stained-glass windows and peaceful solemnity filling the cathedral. The higher arched ceilings, great wooden decor, and peace make it a perfect room to reflect. The stained-glass pictures tell various biblical stories and are also an interesting sight for visitors.
You can also read more about the history of the cathedral and its increasing relevance with the local Catholic community. Being the seat and administrative center of the Archbishop of Saigon, the Notre-Dame Cathedral is an important part of the religious life. The church was built using French materials, including all the red bricks, also shipped directly from France. Standing there for over 150 years, the cathedral has witnessed the ups and downs of the city life.
You can also read about the feelings of the people during their stay in this place. Most of them are moved by the solemnity of the church, as evidenced by the increased number of photo shots there. The twin bell towers are also attractive for visitors, at nearly 60 meters in height they offer an astounding view. Turrets are often used as a background for photo shoots. The feelings of awe are shared by practically everyone, as is the feeling of peace in such a busy city.
Here’s all you need to plan your visit:
Other places to visit
To spend your half-day tour as efficiently as possible, you can follow this route:
Navigating through Ho Chi Minh City can be part of the adventure:
This option can also help you navigate language barriers and get the most out of your visit.
Keep these tips in mind to ensure a smooth trip:
Now you know the best sites to visit on your Ho Chi Minh City tour in 1/2 day if you want to enjoy a lifetime experience from the city. These are the sites that will introduce you to the history, culture, and beauty of this city. From Independence Palace, which serves as a landmark to the rich history of this nation to the busy, adjacent Ben Thanh Market, to the grand Cathedral, you will get lifelong memories. Pack your photography tools and your bag and plan for the trip to Ho Chi Minh City. Don't forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling Ho Chi Minh City to and to book Ho Chi Minh City Tours at the best prices.
South Vietnam Ho Chi Minh City Tour package begins from the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh with the most iconic attractions. The upcoming journey is the historical Cu Chi Tunnels as well-known as a magical network of tunnels with 250 kilometers, giving the visitor a unique experience and a feeling of what underground life in the American war was truly like. We take a two hour’s drive to My Tho (Mekong River Delta), then riding on a sampan cruise along the tributaries of the Mekong River for the authentic way of local life. There we wander through orchards where you can taste some of the huge variety of tropical fruits. For the true value of Ultimate Experiences of Ho Chi Minh South Vietnam Tour:4Days.
Email:hochiminhcitytour@impresstravel.com or contact the hotline (Whatsapp, Zalo, Viber, Skype) at +84.912 379 189 – Mr. Alex.
What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, hotel in Ho Chi Minh city
Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. We will visit the following places of interest:
• Free time & overnight at hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City
• Your free leisure time may be spent shopping in Ho Chi Minh City center at Supermarkets etc or at Ben Thanh market.
• You will be transferred to the Ho Chi Minh city airport via your scheduled flight back home or continue seeing other cities in Vietnam.
• We hope you enjoyed your trip and see you again!
3 STAR HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination |
Room Type |
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE |
Ho Chi Minh City 3-star Hotels |
Signature Deluxe |
HA HIEN SIGNATURE HOTEL Refer:http://hahienhotel.vn |
4 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination |
Room Type |
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE |
Ho Chi Minh City 4-star Hotels |
Palace Saigon Suite Room |
SAIGON PALACE HOTEL Refer: www.palacesaigon.com/en/ |
5 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED
Destination |
Hotel Category |
HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE |
Ho Chi Minh city |
Superior Room Sofitel Hotel Saigon |
SOFITEL HOTEL SAIGON Refer: https://sofitel.accorhotels.com/ |
The hotels and cruise are subject to change to similar category in case of fully booked
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress