Ho Chi Minh Tour Packages

Ho Chi Minh City is an amazing location when it comes to experiencing the authentic aspect of Vietnam tourism. From iconic landmarks and historical sites to natural beauty and regional Asian cuisine, Ho Chi Minh City is a must-visit holiday destination for a short break. It can also be an ideal part of a long Vietnam trip. Whatever the requirement is, you can always find the best deals and travel plans for international trips with Thomas Cook India. For instance, you can go over 10+ Ho Chi Minh City tour packages offered by Thomas Cook if you want an ideal vacation without spending hours planning it. These Ho Chi Minh City tour packages are made with tons of research and planning to make certain travellers get to experience the best out of their international trip. 

From 6 nights/ 7 days to 13 nights/ 14 days, you can pick the right duration that fits your criteria from these select Ho Chi Minh City holiday packages. In addition, you don’t have to worry about hotels, flights, meals or sightseeing, as our packages take care of various Ho Chi Minh trip essentials. So, if you are interested in travelling to Ho Chi Minh City or any other place in Vietnam, give our detailed Vietnam Tourism guide a read. Check out the following sections for more information on popular Ho Chi Minh City tour packages, must-try cuisines, and other things.

Table of Content

• Most Popular Ho Chi Minh City Tour Packages
• Holidays in Ho Chi Minh City
• How to reach Ho Chi Minh City
• Travelling within Ho Chi Minh City
• Best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City
• Ho Chi Minh City COVID-19 tourist guide
• Best Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City
• What to eat in Ho Chi Minh City
• Things to do in Ho Chi Minh City
• Forex/Currency exchanges in Ho Chi Minh City
• Visa for Ho Chi Minh City
• People also ask about Ho Chi Minh City Tour Packages

Most popular Ho Chi Minh City tour packages

If you are looking for the most popular Ho Chi Minh City packages, here are some options you can go over:

About Ho Chi Minh City 

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly called Saigon, is Vietnam’s most populous city. This bustling city offers a quintessential tourism experience that showcases the smooth blend of Vietnam’s rapid modernity and age-old culture and traditions. The cityscape of Ho Chi Minh City is dominated by skyscrapers as well as vibrant markets, cultural landmarks, colonial architecture, etc. It is also a prominent hub for entertainment and culinary delights. All these aspects make for an ideal holiday experience, which the Ho Chi Minh tour package by Thomas Cook covers. 

From learning about the rich history of the city while exploring the War Remnants Museum and Cu Chi Tunnels to walking the Bui Vien Walking Street for shopping and nightouts, Ho Chi Minh City caters to diverse vacation needs. Make the most out of your holidays with the Ho Chi Minh tour package by Thomas Cook. We offer pre-arranged Ho Chi Minh package options for all kinds of themed vacations. The Ho Chi Minh tour package on our website starts from only INR 39,700. During booking, you can also avail of attractive discounts of up to 13% off on select Ho Chi Minh tour package options. Check out Thomas Cook for limited-time exclusive offers on pre-arranged Ho Chi Minh trip plans 

Holidays in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly called Saigon, is located in Vietnam’s southeastern region. The current official name of the city was adopted to commemorate one of the most influential leaders of the region, Ho Chi Minh (a.k.a Uncle Ho). It is the largest city in the country in terms of population and covers an area of around 2,061 square kilometres. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) served as the capital of South Vietnam till 1975 and was also the capital of French Indochina from 1887 to 1902. Alongside being a major centre of historical significance, the metropolitan beauty, local culture and traditional life of Ho Chi Minh City have made it a massive site of tourism in Asia. Ho Chi Minh City also works as an ideal starting point for your Vietnam tour. So, if you have selected Vietnam as your next international trip location, add Ho Chi Minh City to your list of must-visit places. If you want to go through the authentic Vietnam tour experience, you can consider our Classic Vietnam tour package that includes the major cities, including Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City). And if you are planning on including Saigon as a part of your Vietnam and Cambodia trip, you may consider this Ho Chi Minh City travel package. 

How to reach Ho Chi Minh City

In terms of connectivity, Ho Chi Minh City is well-linked with other parts of Vietnam and various regions of the world. Here are the best ways to reach Ho Chi Minh City:

• Reaching Ho Chi Minh City by air
• Reaching Ho Chi Minh City by rail
• Reaching Ho Chi Minh City by road

Reaching Ho Chi Minh City by air

For your Ho Chi Minh trip, travelling by air Travelling to Ho Chi Minh City by air is the best option for both domestic travellers and international visitors. The main airport serving Ho Chi Minh City is called Tan Son Nhat International Airport, located just 5 miles from the city. It features daily domestic flights from and to major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Ca Mau, and so on. It also has an international terminal operating daily. For instance, if you are travelling from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata or any other major Indian cities, you can easily opt for a one or multi-stop flight to Tan Son Nhat International Airport and then take a 20-minute cab ride to reach Ho Chi Minh City. Make sure to book flight tickets for your Ho Chi Minh trip in advance. Book a Ho Chi Minh tour package with included flights on Thomas Cook.

Reaching Ho Chi Minh City by rail

Reaching Ho Chi Minh city by train is only a sensible option for individuals travelling from other parts of Vietnam. The Saigon Train Station is its main railway hub and features daily trains from and to other Vietnamese cities.

Reaching Ho Chi Minh City by road 

Ho Chi Minh city is served by two main bus terminals and features daily buses from various Vietnamese cities, including Da Lat, Hanoi, Da Nang, etc. Taking Highway 1 from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in a shared taxi is also a way of reaching by road. You can find a Ho Chi Minh package that also include other popular destinations in Vietnam, like Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, etc.

Travelling within Ho Chi Minh City

Once you enter Ho Chi Minh City, you don’t have to worry about local transfers. The city has an extensive local transport network, with options like;

• Taxi: Taxis are the most convenient way to travel within the city during the Ho Chi Minh trip. However, it can get a bit expensive as you will be charged a base fee and a price per KM.
  
  
• Cyclo: These are 3-wheeled vehicles resembling cycle-rickshaws in India. For short-distance travel, a cyclo can be ideal.
   
• Local bus: The local bus is a cheap way to get around the city on a Ho Chi Minh trip. It covers over 100 routes across the city and features A/C and comfy seats.
   
• Rental bikes and cycles: To enjoy the liberty of exploring the city at your own accord, you can get a cycle or motorbike/scooter on rent. Also, note that a Ho Chi Minh tour package usually covers local transfers.
   
• Xe Om: Alternatively, you can try Xe Om or a motorcycle taxi on your Ho Chi Minh trip. It is quite inexpensive and helps you get to your destination without being affected by the traffic. 

Best time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Generally, the dry season (December to March) is considered the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City. The average temperature range around this period usually remains from 20 to 32°C, with an absence of precipitation for the most part. It features pleasant weather for tourists, allowing them to explore the city without hindrance. This period also features some of the major events and festivals in the city, including Christmas, Gregorian New Year, Tet festival, and so on. During this peak season, the month of January is often referred to as the best time to go to Ho Chi Minh City. Consider booking your Ho Chi Minh tour package in advance to ensure availability.

The time from April to July is considered shoulder season for a Ho Chi Minh tour . The average temperature range is usually 24 to 35°C, with a high frequency of rainfall. Tourists usually avoid visiting Ho Chi Minh City during this time as rainfall can often hinder their sightseeing plans. However, this is the best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City for the shoulder season discounts and notable events, including Reunification Day, International Labor Day, Southern Fruit Festival, etc.

The off-season for a Ho Chi Minh tour stretches from August to November. Apart from a few notable Ho Chi Minh City holidays and festivals, rain remains prevalent throughout and only starts to slow down in late November. If your Ho Chi Minh City visit is part of a comprehensive Vietnam tour, make sure to learn about the Best time to visit Vietnam as a whole. Find seasonal deals on Ho Chi Minh tour package options on Thomas Cook

Ho Chi Minh City COVID-19 tourist guide

A trip to Ho Chi Minh City or any other Vietnamese city is surely exciting, however, travellers must stay informed and follow the regional COVID-19 travel safety guidelines to ensure their, as well as others’ safety. You can check out our detailed International Travel Guidelines page to get details on various popular holiday destinations across Asia and other parts of the world. In addition, don’t forget to wear a face mask, follow personal hygiene, avoid travelling with a cough or fever, and other general COVID-19 health and safety measures. 

Best Places to Visit in Ho Chi Minh City

Amidst the usual metropolitan cityscape views of Ho Chi Minh City, there are numerous exciting tourist landmarks you can check out. Here are some of the must-visit sites in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Cu Chi Tunnels
• Independence Palace
• Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
• War Remnants Museum
• Thien Hau Temple
• Ho Chi Minh City Museum

Cu Chi Tunnels

Located about 50 kilometres from the city centre, the Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the most interesting places in Ho Chi Minh City. It is an extensive network of several underground tunnels with an estimated length of more than 250 kilometres. The Cu Chi Tunnels served as a place for hiding, supply routes, hospitals, and other facilities for the Viet Cong during various war eras. It is the perfect place to visit on a Ho Chi Minh tour for history buffs. The Cu Chi Tunnels are also one of the must-visit places in all of Vietnam and a prominent inclusion in several Ho Chi Minh tour package options.

Independence Palace

The Independence Palace, also known as Reunification Convention Hall, is one of the major landmarks and interesting places in Ho Chi Minh City. This building served as the workplace and residence of the then-president of South Vietnam after the split. However, on April 30th, 1975, a tank of the North Vietnamese army crashed through the palace’s gates, marking the end of the ongoing Vietnam War. This huge building and its dated architecture stand today as a representation of Vietnam’s reunification. Besides seeing the notable features of the palace, like basement tunnels, war command rooms, etc., tourists can opt for a guided tour if they want to learn more about the site’s historical significance. Explore more iconic landmarks like this with a Ho Chi Minh tour package from Thomas Cook.

Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

The Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon was established by French colonists during the late 19th century. Today, its remarkable architectural work and link to Vietnam’s history have made it a massive site of tourist interest. Apart from its grand interior, this red-brick structure features two tall bell towers that stand tall at 190 feet. It is one of the most beautiful structures and interesting places in Ho Chi Minh City. Look for a Ho Chi Minh package featuring this site on our website.

War Remnants Museum

Among the various museums in Ho Chi Minh City, the War Remnants Museum holds a major place of importance. It opened for public viewing back in 1975 and became one of the most visited museums in the world in recent times. This museum features over 20,000 documented exhibits, with the majority belonging to the Vietnam War era. Featured in popular Ho Chi Minh package options, this museum successfully illustrates the horrifying history and brutality of war to a certain extent. Some famous display items in the museum include various graphics, photos, tiger cages, military vehicles, weapons, guillotine, etc. This museum is also one of the most interesting places in Ho Chi Minh City.

Thien Hau Temple

The Thien Hau Temple in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the most famous religious landmarks in the region. It was built by a Chinese group that used to reside in the Saigon region. The temple’s beautiful architecture and divine atmosphere attract both locals and international visitors on their Ho Chi Minh tour. The temple is dedicated to Thien Hau, the Chinese goddess of the Sea, and has a very interesting story associated with the site. It is one of the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, located in the Chinatown area. Get great deals on a Ho Chi Minh package with limited-time offers from Thomas Cook.

Ho Chi Minh City Museum

The Ho Chi Minh City Museum, previously known as Gia Long Palace, is a must-visit site near the Independence Palace. It is one of the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City for history buffs, and you can find it in the itinerary of several Ho Chi Minh package options Beneath the site of this fine establishment lies a series of underground connecting tunnels and refuge bunkers previously used during the time of war. Even though they are not offered for public viewing, the exhibits within the museum are equally interesting. These display items are connected to Saigon’s culture, handicrafts, nature, and struggle for independence.

What to Eat in Ho Chi Minh City

Apart from the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, the local cuisine is also quite famous among visitors. Here are some of the best dishes to try in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Banh mi- This food item is a local favourite and can be found across various eateries and street food vendors in Ho Chi Minh City. It is prepared by taking a baguette and then filling it with a healthy serving of chopped vegetables, meat, sauces and other flavourful goodness. It can be a go-to snack to fill your hunger while exploring the city during a Ho Chi Minh tour.
• Bun bo hue- Bun bo hue is a delectable food option and a must-try dish in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a bowl of rice noodle soup made with chopped pork and has a thick but tasty broth. Even though the dish originated in Hue city, it is a popular street food item in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Goi cuon- Goi cuon is simply one of the best Vietnamese cuisines you must try on your Ho Chi Minh tour. It is a type of spring roll, ideally made with pork, shrimp, vegetables and some other rich ingredients. It is served alongside a bowl of spicy dipping sauce and makes up for a fantastic light meal or snack.
• Grilled meat and seafood- While exploring Ho Chi Minh City, make sure to give the local streetside grilled meat and seafood a go. Apart from being delicious, you get tons of options to pick from, including pork, chicken, prawns, crabs, lobsters and so on. While on the topic of food, note that meals are a standard inclusion of most Ho Chi Minh package options from Thomas Cook.

Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City

The massive area of Ho Chi Minh City features tons of exciting activities that you can do for a memorable vacation. Here are the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Take a 360° view of Ho Chi Minh City- While on your Ho Chi Minh tour, make sure to check out the Bitexco Financial Tower, just 10 kilometres from the city centre. It is one of the tallest buildings in all of Vietnam and features a Skydeck on its 49th floor. You can catch a unique 360° view of Ho Chi Minh City and take marvellous photographs. 
• Learn about the local history- There are various sites across Ho Chi Minh City where you can learn more about the rich history of Vietnam. From multiple museums and underground tunnels to significant places and landmarks, Ho Chi Minh City is an iconic place for history buffs.
• Go on a river cruise- There are multiple options for dinner cruises and sunset city boat tours along the Mekong delta that you can consider during your Ho Chi Minh tour.  It offers various facilities, like guided tours, sightseeing, live music, tasty food, etc., and makes up for an excellent way to spend some time in Ho Chi Minh City. 
• Catch a show at Saigon Opera House- If you are searching for some live entertainment on your Ho Chi Minh tour, make sure to catch a show at the famous Saigon Opera House. Apart from the amazing night visuals of the building itself, the Saigon Opera House hosts various events, including classical music, conventional theatre plays, ballet, concerts and so on.

Forex/Currency for Ho Chi Minh City

When visiting a foreign holiday destination, your best chance at handling the expenses you make there will be by using their local currency. For example, the main currency used in Ho Chi Minh City is the Vietnamese Dong, and you will need it during your Ho Chi Minh tour to pay for the purchases you make there. In today’s day and age, getting hold of foreign currency over the internet is as easy as ever. For example, you can use Thomas Cook India’s foreign exchange services and get foreign currency notes or forex cards in just a few steps. There are also multiple payment modes and foreign currency options that you can pick from.

Visa for Ho Chi Minh City

Similar to other trips abroad, you will be required to apply for a visa in order to visit Ho Chi Minh City. However, as Vietnam offers an eVisa facility for over 80 countries, getting a visa for the Ho Chi Minh City tour is very simple for individuals meeting the eligibility criteria. For example, Indians travelling to Ho Chi Minh City can apply for a Vietnamese eVisa in order to enter the country. The application process for this eVisa is explained on the official Vietnam eVisa website. This eVisa has a 30-day validity, which is perfect for most Ho Chi Minh City trip plans. In addition, if you are a citizen of a country under the Vietnam Visa Exemption list, you can travel to Ho Chi Minh City without a visa if you intend to stay within the stipulated period.