Ho Chi Minh City, locally known as ‘Saigon’, is the most populous city in Vietnam. The metropolis has a rich culture, diverse architecture, and lots of history. From traditional cuisines through museums to vibrant nightlife, Ho Chi Minh City is a destination that allows for a versatile itinerary. For accommodation, you will find plenty of great hotels to stay. Prefer a homier place? You can book an Airbnb vacation rental. Adding to this versatility is Ho Chi Minh City’s convenient location which makes it very easy to embark on day trips to nearby destinations and attractions. These day trips take you away from the hustle and bustle of the city and provide you with a different experience of Vietnam. We’ve compiled a list of day trip options with all the information you need. Browse below for a well-compiled list of the best day trips from Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
1. Mekong Delta (from USD 73.0)
The Mekong Delta is a truly unique site to visit and makes for one of the best tours from Ho Chi Minh City. A labyrinth of rivers and swamps and home to floating markets and villages, its lively activity can be quite overwhelming for tourists. Where exactly should you go? How to get there? What should you see? A guided tour of the Mekong Delta is the ideal solution to all your worries! A full-day cruise from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta will take you through the waterways on a longtail boat. Explore villages and islands, dig into yummy local cuisine, and ride through the lush foliage of coconut trees on this cruise.
Traveler's tips
Mekong Delta, located in the south of Vietnam, has several fishing villages, rivers, and islands. From here, my friends and I enjoyed the serene Vinh Trang Pagoda, which is a Buddhist temple with sleeping and sitting Buddhas. Other activities include rowing in the delta and visiting a coconut candy establishment, where we bought delicacies and gifts for our families and friends. Guests will also love tasting seasonal fruits from local orchards, sipping honey tea, and indulging in a sumptuous seafood meal at An Khanh.
Mekong Delta Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
Duration: 8 hours
2. Ho Tram
Take a break from the busy city life and sink your toes into the soft sand of Ho Tram. A little beach town just two hours away from Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Tram can be conveniently accessed by ferry or taxi. It’s an up-and-coming destination, which means that getting around will not be a challenge, yet it isn’t overrun by tourists so you can expect a relatively peaceful and private experience.
3. Cai Rang
Cai Rang is the largest of the floating markets in Vietnam’s famous Mekong Delta. Located on the Cai Rang River, its original purpose was to facilitate the needs of the trading locals before roads and traffic systems were established. It’s been more than 100 years since and Cai Rang floating market still remains as busy as ever. Visitors can witness wholesale trading here, where traders carefully balance a variety of local products while negotiating prices. You can enjoy traditional cuisines on the boat restaurants, with meals starting from as low as 1 USD. To get here from Ho Chi Minh City, embark on a five-hour journey in a sleeper bus to Can Tho, from where you can get a taxi to Ninh Kleu Wharf and a further two-hour boat ride will take you to Cai Rang floating markets. This option might be a little more challenging if you do not speak Vietnamese and the boat rides to the markets often only begin when a boat is full. If you’re on a tight schedule, opt for a guided tour of the markets instead.
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4. Ba Den Mountain
Bring out the adventurous side in you with a trip to Ba Den Mountain, located just three hours’ drive away from Ho Chi Minh City. It’s the highest mountain in southeastern Vietnam, promising astonishing views from the peak and of course, a scenic drive along the way, passing plantations and friendly villages. The hike up the mountain takes approximately two-and-a-half to three hours and is known to be one of the tougher trekking options from Ho Chi Minh City.
5. Can Gio (from USD 29.3)
Swap out the two-wheeler traffic and bustling crowds of Ho Chi Minh City for the nature and wildlife of Can Gio island. The island is a Mangrove Biosphere Reserve and often known as the ‘green lungs’ of the city since it provides environmental protection to many wildlife and plant habitats. It is home to more than a thousand monkeys, plants and various mangrove-dwelling animal species. Take a guided tour of the island that offers a great combination of the key highlights of Can Gio: monkeys, crocodiles and a ride into the mangrove forests to visit camps from the Vietnam War.
Can Gio Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh
Duration: 9hrsDuration
6. Cai Bae (from USD 60.0)
The Mekong River is the longest river in southeast Asia and runs through China, Tibet, Myanmar, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. As you’d expect, it serves many purposes, one of which is to facilitate trade through its many floating markets. Visitors to Cai Bae can check out Cai Be village and see its floating market from a sampan (flat-bottomed local boat) cruise. You can immerse yourself in nature with a bicycle ride through An Binh island and taste the local speciality dishes, such as snake wine and exotic fruits.
Small-group Mekong Delta Day Trip: Boat Ride, Village & Cooking
Duration: 8 to 10 hours
7. Cat Tien National Park
Cat Tien National Park is a well-maintained and beautifully preserved collection of wildlife and tropical forests near Ho Chi Minh City. The journey from the city to the national park can take about four-five hours, depending on the mode of transport. You could take a bus, hire a private taxi or rent a motorbike if you’re feeling adventurous. The night safari is one of the highlights of Cat Tien National Park, an opportunity to see nocturnal animals such as porcupines, civets and deer.
8. Black Virgin Mountain (from USD 135.0)
Travelling is an exciting experience, but it also comes with its challenges, such as language barriers, navigating through unfamiliar roads and systems and most importantly, insufficient time. But on a day trip to Black Virgin Mountain from Ho Chi Minh City, most of your travel challenges will fade away. Visitors to this beautiful mountain can choose from a range of hiking trails or take a cable car to the top, where spectacular views await them. You can also learn a little more about Vietnam’s history and culture with visits to Cao Di Temple and Cu Chi Tunnels. Take a break to sample delicious local fare and round off your trip with a visit to Ba Den Pagoda.
Black Virgin Mountain, Cao Dai Temple & Ben Duoc Cu Chi Tunnel
Duration: 10 hours
9. Vung Tao (from USD 146.0)
Vung Tao city is a great choice for travellers who’d like a combination of beach and city life. Previously a French colonial town, Vung Tao city’s architecture is a beautiful blend of east and west complimented by majestic beaches. On a full-day tour of the city, visitors can get a holistic travel experience encompassing cultural sites, such as a Buddhist temple and a statue of Jesus Christ, coastal views, fresh seafood and some time to relax by the sea.
Full-day Vung Tau Beach City from Ho Chi Minh City
Duration: 10 hours
10. Can Tho (from USD 89.0)
One of the major tourist attractions around Ho Chi Minh City is Can Tho, which is a vibrant city in the heart of Vietnam’s mesmerizing Mekong Delta. Embark on an unforgettable journey as you uncover this enchanting destination’s hidden treasures and rich cultural tapestry. Explore the famous Cai Rang Floating Market, where vibrant boats laden with fresh produce create a captivating spectacle. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere, taste local delicacies, and witness the vibrant trade of the Delta.
Cruise along the picturesque canals and witness the daily life of locals in charming riverside villages. Visit the enchanting pagodas and immerse yourself in the spiritual traditions of the region. Delight your taste buds with the flavors of Can Tho, from delicious street food to authentic regional dishes. Indulge in fresh tropical fruits, aromatic coffee, and the renowned Mekong Delta cuisine.
Can Tho 1 Day Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
Duration: 7 to 8 minutes
11. Tan Lap Floating Village
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
Sightseeing in Vietnam is not complete until you have discovered the tranquil oasis of Tan Lap Floating Village, nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s picturesque wetlands. Step into a world of natural splendor and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this unique destination. Embark on a boat journey through the peaceful waterways, surrounded by lush greenery and floating lotus flowers. Explore the rich biodiversity of the wetlands, home to diverse bird species and fascinating wildlife.
Witness the traditional lifestyle of the local community as you visit stilt houses and learn about their harmonious coexistence with nature. Engage in cultural activities, such as making traditional handicrafts or participating in a floating market experience. Stroll along the wooden pathways, breathing in the fresh air and savoring the tranquility of the surroundings.
12. Cu Chi Tunnels (from USD 24.0)
Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-see in Vietnam, not only for the sheer magnificence of the distance they covered but also for the important role they played during the Vietnam War. The tunnels were mostly dug by hand and serve as a poignant reminder of the war, which forms a large part of Vietnam’s history. Visitors can opt for a guided tour to learn more about the war, construction of the tunnel network and even go through some tunnels to get a first-hand experience of living in them.
VIP Group (max 10 pax) - Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day
Duration: 5 to 6 hours
Take a refreshing day trip from Saigon
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is a must-see place when visiting Vietnam. The city is known for the vital role it played during the Vietnam War, its French colonial landmarks, delicious cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. However, there are many options just outside the city that will allow you to experience a different side of Vietnam. So book a trip to some of the best getaway spots from Ho Chi Minh City and add more to your travel experiences!
Frequently asked questions about day trips from Ho Chi Minh City
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