Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi - Tay Ninh: 1 - Day Discovery Tour

Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, once fondly called “the Pearl of the Far East” - a vibrant land where cultures blend in fascinating ways. Before carrying its proud modern name, the city was known as Saigon, a symbol of romance, energy, and generosity.

Here, beyond the soaring skyscrapers and bustling shopping centers, countless heroic stories remain. From a humble fishing village along the river, Saigon has weathered centuries of change to become Vietnam’s cultural and economic hub. Every street and corner whispers its own tale - from elegant French architecture to serene, time - honored temples.

So, what awaits us on today’s journey?

In just one day, we’ll not only explore the city center but also travel back in time to visit historic landmarks in Cu Chi and experience the unique culture of Tay Ninh.

Ho Chi Minh City - Cu Chi - Tay Ninh: 1 - Day Discovery Tour

Morning: The Secrets of Cu Chi Tunnels & The Sacred Cao Dai Holy See

• Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels - “Where the earth speaks and the stones tell stories”

Our journey begins at The Rice Hotel, from where we head to the world-famous Cu Chi Tunnels. You may have heard of them before, but nothing compares to witnessing them firsthand.

The Cu Chi Tunnels are not just an underground network - they are a military masterpiece. Hand - dug and stretching over 250 km, these tunnels once connected Cu Chi to the Cambodian border. Inside, you’ll find a hidden world: meeting rooms, hospitals, kitchens, storage facilities and cleverly disguised traps.

Every inch of soil tells stories of resilience, creativity and unyielding spirit. Here, you’ll have the chance to crawl through the tunnels yourself, taste boiled cassava with sesame salt - the staple of soldiers during wartime - and truly feel history come alive.

Cu Chi Tunnels

• The Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh - Harmony in Architecture

Leaving Cu Chi, we journey to the colorful and spiritual Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh. This stunning temple blends Asian and European styles in a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and intricate details.

Founded in the early 20th century, Cao Dai is a Vietnamese religion that unites the world’s major faiths - Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, Christianity, and Islam. Inside the temple, you’ll see sacred symbols from all these religions coexisting in harmony.

If we arrive in time, you’ll witness the midday prayer ceremony – an unforgettable sight, with thousands of worshippers in white robes chanting together with deep devotion.

The Cao Dai Holy See in Tay Ninh

Noon: Savor Tay Ninh Specialties and Return to Saigon

After our heartfelt visit to the Cao Dai Holy See, we will make our way to a local restaurant in Tay Ninh for lunch. This will be a wonderful opportunity for you to savor some of the region’s most distinctive dishes.

Among the specialties you may get to enjoy are Trang Bang rice noodle soup - featuring chewy noodles, a naturally sweet and delicate broth, and tender slices of boiled pork - or young beef wrapped in rice paper, where lightly cooked, thinly sliced veal is paired with wild herbs and dipped in rich, flavorful fermented anchovy sauce. These dishes are not only delicious but also carry the authentic culinary spirit of Tay Ninh.

After lunch, you will have a short time to relax and recharge before continuing our journey. Around 2:00 PM, we will board the bus and begin our return trip to Ho Chi Minh City.

Afternoon: Back to the Charm of Saigon

The journey from Tay Ninh back to Saigon takes about 2 - 3 hours, depending on traffic conditions. As we arrive in the Tan Binh district, our first stop will be the Giac Lam Pagoda.

• Visiting Giac Lam Pagoda

Built in 1744, Giac Lam is one of the oldest and most significant pagodas in Saigon. It reflects traditional Vietnamese architecture, with three main halls covered by yin-yang roof tiles and gracefully curved eaves shaped like dragon tails.

Stepping inside, you will immediately feel the calm and serene atmosphere, a sharp contrast to the bustling city outside. The pagoda houses nearly 100 wooden Buddha statues and numerous precious antiques, each telling stories of Buddhist history and culture in Southern Vietnam. This is truly a perfect place to reconnect with tranquility while admiring the artistry of ancient Vietnamese architecture.

Giac Lam Pagoda

• Exploring Ben Thanh Market

After the pagoda visit, we will continue to Ben Thanh Market - a cultural and historical icon of Saigon. More than just a bustling marketplace, it is also a living museum that reflects the daily life of the local people.

As you walk through the market, you’ll be dazzled by the sheer variety of goods on display: from exquisite handicrafts and traditional ao dai dresses to aromatic coffee, spices, and fresh tropical fruits. And don’t miss the vibrant food court, where you can sample authentic Saigon street food such as pho, bun rieu, fresh spring rolls, or sweet che desserts.

Strolling around Ben Thanh Market is not only about shopping but also about experiencing the culture - an opportunity to engage with friendly locals and feel the warmth of their hospitality.

Ben Thanh Market

Evening: The Vibrant Spirit of Bui Vien Night Street

Finally, we will return to the hotel located right in the heart of Saigon’s lively backpacker district. After checking in at The Rice Hotel on Bui Vien Street, you will find yourself immersed in the vibrant atmosphere of this famous area. Known as Saigon’s “street that never sleeps,” Bui Vien attracts travelers from all around the world.

As night falls, the street transforms into a true festival, alive with music, colorful neon lights, and the irresistible aroma of street food. Here, you can enjoy a cold beer, strike up conversations with new friends, or simply sit back and watch the bustling crowd pass by.

Relax at The Rice Hotel and explore the vibrant nightlife of Saigon

This is the perfect way to conclude a day full of discoveries - an opportunity to truly feel the dynamic, modern rhythm of life in Ho Chi Minh City.

* Tour Price (All - Inclusive):

• Groups of 4 - 5 guests: 1,925,000 VND per person
• Groups of 10+ guests: 1,540,000 VND per person

* Price includes: transportation, entrance fees, professional tour guide, 2 main meals, and 1 - night stay at The Rice Hotel.

📍 The Rice Hotel: 40/9 Bui Vien, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City

📞 HOTLINE:

• +84 356154334 (Mrs. Ly)
• +84 979209793 (Mr. Son)
• +84 28 88887888

Note: To provide the best service - especially in our VIP rooms, designed with private space, premium amenities, and professional service quality - our restaurant and hotel apply an additional 10% service charge. We kindly ask for your understanding.

With this carefully designed itinerary, we believe you will enjoy a truly memorable day in Vietnam - discovering its history, culture, and people in the most authentic way.