Southern Vietnam Discovery 5 Days: Ho Chi Minh City-Cu Chi Tunnels-Mekong Delta-Vung Tau

Day 1: Arrival in Ho Chi Minh City – Dinner Cruise on Saigon River (D) – No Guide

Upon arrival at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and transferred to your hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in after check-in.

In the evening, enjoy an unforgettable dining experience aboard the Indochina Queen dinner cruise. As you board, the captain will greet you and introduce you to the highlights of traditional Vietnamese cuisine. This dinner cruise offers not only delicious food but also spectacular views of Ho Chi Minh City’s illuminated skyline as you glide along the scenic Saigon River.

A buffet dinner will be served on board. 
Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 2: Ho Chi Minh City – Cu Chi Tunnels (B/L)

07:30–07:45 AM: Begin your city tour with a visit to the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, a historic symbol of Vietnam. Continue to admire iconic French colonial landmarks including Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, followed by a visit to the War Remnants Museum, which offers profound insights into the country’s wartime history.

After lunch at a local restaurant, depart for Cu Chi Tunnels (approx. 1.5-hour drive). Upon arrival, you’ll watch an introductory video explaining how the tunnels were constructed and how people lived during wartime. Explore the preserved tunnel system, featuring underground living areas, kitchens, field hospitals, command centers, and hidden traps.

Try some wartime snacks such as cassava and tea. Optional: experience live firing at the shooting range (at your own expense).
Return to Ho Chi Minh City. Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 3: Full-Day Mekong Delta Tour (B/L)

After breakfast, 07:30 AM: depart from your hotel in District 1 and travel to My Tho City, passing through picturesque rice paddies, pineapple plantations, and traditional hamlets (approx. 2-hour drive).

Upon arrival, embark on a motorboat to explore Dragon Island, Unicorn Island, Turtle Island, and Phoenix Island. Stop at Unicorn Island to visit a local bee farm, taste honey, honey wine, rice wine, and banana wine.

Continue to Ben Tre Province to visit a coconut candy workshop. Then, board a smaller boat to cruise through the lush canals and enjoy lunch at a local riverside restaurant.

After lunch, visit an orchard to taste seasonal fruits while enjoying a live performance of Southern traditional music. Return by boat to My Tho, then head to Vinh Trang Pagoda before returning to Ho Chi Minh City.
Arrive around 5:30 PM.  Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 4: Full-Day Vung Tau Tour (B/L)

After breakfast, 07:00–07:30 AM: your tour guide will pick you up for the journey to Vung Tau City.
09:00 AM: Arrive and enjoy free time at Thuy Van Beach (Back Beach), one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches, featuring 10 km of sandy shoreline and gentle waves.

Enjoy an authentic Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit the Jesus Christ Statue, Thang Tam Temple (Whale Temple), Bach Dinh (White Palace), and Cape Nghinh Phong for scenic photos and relaxation.
06:00 PM: Return to Ho Chi Minh City.  Overnight in Ho Chi Minh City.

Day 5: Departure – Tan Son Nhat Airport (B)

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel. When it’s time for your departure, you will be transferred to Tan Son Nhat International Airport by a private vehicle for your onward flight.