This half-day tour of Saigon is the perfect introduction to the city and the country’s colourful past. As well as ticking off the principal sights in District 1, it also serves as excellent orientation, which will then enable you to maximise any free time you have in Saigon. The tour includes the Reunification Hall, formerly known as the Presidential Palace, the Old Saigon Post Office, Dong Khoi Street (formerly Rue Catinat), The Continental Hotel, Opera House and City Hall. Whilst a vehicle is at your disposal, its easier and more enjoyable to stroll between these sights.
After this tour of the major colonial buildings, you continue on to the War Remnants Museum, where exhibits include graphic imagery of both the French and American wars, as they are referred to locally. The tour ends at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, dating from 1909 and built by Cantonese Buddhists strictly observing the principals of feng shui. It serves as a peaceful and contemplative conclusion.
