FREE WALKING TOUR SAIGON – CITY HIGHLIGHTS

Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours

Language: English

Group size: Maximum 30 guests in total. For a better experience, the group will be divided into smaller groups of around 10–15 people.

Walking distance: About 2.0–2.7 km, depending on the final destination.

Meeting Point

Starbucks Café – Saigon River Tourist Pier (Bến Bạch Đằng)

📍 https://maps.app.goo.gl/isu141W5LDvokKmB9

Your guide will be easy to recognize, wearing a green hat with a red walking tours logo.

Please arrive 10 minutes before the start time.

Tour Highlights & Stops

1️⃣ Saigon River Tourist Pier

This is where Saigon’s story began. For centuries, the river played a vital role in trade and migration. Today, it offers a striking contrast between Saigon’s historical roots and its modern skyline, making it the perfect starting point for the walk.

2️⃣ Nguyen Hue Walking Street

A wide pedestrian boulevard at the heart of the city, surrounded by colonial-era architecture, lively street performances, and public events. It reflects the everyday rhythm and vibrant energy of modern Saigon.

3️⃣ People’s Committee Building (City Hall – exterior)

Completed in 1908, this elegant French colonial building stands as a symbol of Saigon’s past. Its architecture and the nearby statue of Ho Chi Minh represent the transition from colonial history to national independence.

4️⃣ Saigon Opera House (exterior)

An architectural jewel from the French era, once hosting operas, concerts, and social gatherings. The building remains one of the most beautiful landmarks in the city.

5️⃣ Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica (exterior)

Constructed entirely with materials imported from France, this iconic red-brick cathedral is one of Saigon’s most recognizable landmarks and a reminder of its European influences.

6️⃣ Saigon Central Post Office

Step inside this beautifully preserved building to admire its high iron-vaulted ceiling and large historical maps of Saigon. Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s firm, it continues to serve locals to this day.

7️⃣ Independence Palace (exterior)

Also known as the Reunification Palace, this site was once the residence of the South Vietnamese president. On April 30, 1975, a tank entered its gates, marking the end of the Vietnam War.

End of Tour – Flexible Options

At the end of the walk, your guide will help the group choose the most suitable ending point:

✅ Option 1 – Ben Thanh Market

Explore Saigon’s most famous market, where hundreds of stalls offer local food, souvenirs, and a glimpse into daily life.

✅ Option 2 – War Remnants Museum

For guests interested in Vietnam’s modern history, the tour can continue toward the War Remnants Museum, located just a short walk away.

These options will be discussed at the beginning of the tour so everyone can enjoy the experience that suits them best.

Additional Notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
   
• Please bring water, as the weather is warm throughout the year.
   
• The route is mostly flat and easy to walk.

Practical Information Summary

Meeting point: Starbucks Café, Saigon River Tourist Pier

Start times: 9:00 AM or 2:00 PM

End point: Ben Thanh Market or War Remnants Museum

Distance: Approximately 2.0–2.7 km