“3-Day Southern Vietnam Tour: Saigon, Mui Ne & Mekong”

Experience the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, relax on Mui Ne’s stunning sand dunes, and enjoy a peaceful cruise on the Mekong River—all in just three days. For $419 per person, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of urban exploration, natural beauty, and river life. We love how the itinerary combines iconic sights with authentic local flavors, from a sunset cruise along the Saigon River to tasting fresh seafood by the ocean and discovering the lush Mekong Delta.

One of our favorite parts is the Saigon River cruise at sunset—seeing the city’s skyline light up from the water is truly magical. We also appreciated visiting Mui Ne’s red and white sand dunes, which offer fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to experience Vietnam’s diverse landscapes.

A possible consideration is the pace—three days can feel busy, especially if you want to linger longer at each location. But overall, this tour suits travelers who appreciate a mix of scenic views, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics. It’s especially great for first-time visitors wanting a structured, immersive overview of southern Vietnam’s highlights.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary blending city, nature, and river experiences
• Includes comfortable hotel stay and all necessary transfers
• Highlights iconic sights like Saigon’s skyline, Mui Ne sand dunes, and Mekong waterways
• Authentic local flavors through seafood lunches, Vietnamese dinners, and fruit tastings
• Ideal for first-timers or those wanting an accessible overview
• Pre-arranged with included entrance fees and guided support

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City: A Dynamic Urban Hub

Your adventure begins as soon as you land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport, where an English-speaking guide will meet you and whisk you to your hotel in central Saigon. Staying in the heart of the city means easy access to bustling markets, historic landmarks, and vibrant street life. After settling in, your first evening features the Saigon River cruise, which we found to be the perfect way to unwind after travel.

The cruise itself is a highlight, offering stunning views of the city skyline as the sun dips. You’ll pass sights like the Bitexco Tower and Landmark 81, which look especially striking when lit up at dusk. The boat’s dual decks let you choose between a relaxing lower level or a breezy upper deck for the best photo ops.

Following the cruise, dinner at Propaganda Vietnamese Bistro is a feast of local flavors. The house-made ice cream made from soursop and sugar cane is a memorable finish. The restaurant’s trendy vibe, decorated with colorful propaganda art, adds a fun, contemporary twist to your first night in Saigon.

Day Two: Mui Ne’s Sand Dunes and Coastal Charm

The drive to Mui Ne takes about three hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the changing scenery from the window. Once there, you’ll visit the Van Thuy Tu Temple, home to Southeast Asia’s largest whale skeleton. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the region’s seafaring traditions and a peaceful spot amid the busy coast.

Next, the Champa ruins of Tháp Chm Po Sah In date back to the 8th-9th centuries, making them the southernmost remnants of the Cham Kingdom. These well-preserved towers offer a window into ancient Vietnam’s cultural landscape.

The highlight of the day is the Mui Ne sand dunes. The red and white dunes are striking formations that seem almost otherworldly. We loved how the dunes offered not only memorable photo opportunities but also a chance for some playful exploration — whether by walking or trying out a little sand sledding if you’re feeling adventurous.

Lunch at Cay Bang Restaurant is a seafood lover’s dream, with oceanfront views and dishes like grilled shrimp, steamed clams, and stir-fried water spinach. We appreciated the fresh ingredients and the chance to taste regional flavors.

Returning to Saigon in the evening, you’ll have time to relax before dinner, which features Phan Thiet’s famous local noodles. It’s a great way to round out the day and get a taste for local culinary traditions.

Day Three: The Mekong River and Authentic Delta Life

Your final day begins with an early breakfast before heading out to the lush waterways of the Mekong Delta. The morning cruise offers a peaceful contrast to the urban chaos of Saigon. You’ll visit Tay Son Island, where traditional boats ferry you through quiet canals, giving a genuine feel of everyday life in the delta.

The rowboat ride through the Mekong’s narrow canals is surprisingly serene. We loved the chance to see locals working in their orchards and workshops, tasting fresh tropical fruits and coconut candies along the way. These moments of authenticity make the Mekong experience so special.

Your farewell dinner at Pizza 4Ps adds a surprising twist—this beloved local pizzeria serves up Japanese-Italian fusion with a focus on farm-to-table ingredients. It’s a relaxed way to end your trip, sharing good food and memories.

The Practical Side: What’s Included and What to Know

This tour offers a comprehensive package with the key benefits of convenience and guided expertise. Hotel accommodation in central Saigon is rated as superior class, providing comfort and ease of access to the city’s best sights. Round-trip airport transfers, all transportation, and entrance fees are included, which simplifies planning and makes the overall cost very attractive.

The guided nature of the tour means you’re never left guessing about what’s next, and the English-speaking guide ensures you get the stories behind the sights. The scheduled activities—like the Saigon cruise, Mui Ne dunes, and Mekong boat rides—are well-paced, though they do require some early mornings and a bit of travel time.

The price of $419 per person offers good value considering the included hotel, meals, transportation, and guided experiences. You’ll want to budget extra for drinks and personal souvenirs but these are not included.

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Considerations and Who Should Take This Tour

While this tour covers a lot, the schedule can feel a little brisk, especially if you prefer more relaxed pacing or time to explore each site at leisure. The group size isn’t specified but the shared transfers and guided format suggest a comfortably social experience, suitable for travelers who enjoy a shared adventure.

It’s best suited for first-time visitors eager for a structured introduction to southern Vietnam or travelers with limited time who want a taste of city life, beach scenery, and river culture. If you’re seeking a deep dive into local history or want to relax on beaches longer, you might want to extend your stay or choose individual activities.

The Sum Up

This 3-day tour of southern Vietnam offers a thoughtfully curated experience emphasizing stunning views, authentic local flavors, and cultural highlights. With comfortable accommodations, expert guides, and well-organized logistics, it provides excellent value for those wanting a rundown without the hassle of planning every detail.

Travelers who enjoy a bit of everything—city lights, sandy dunes, and river tranquility—will find this trip satisfying. It’s especially well-suited for first-timers or those with limited time who want to hit key highlights comfortably and authentically.

If you’re looking for a way to see the best of southern Vietnam in a manageable package that balances sightseeing with genuine experiences, this tour is a solid choice. It will leave you with vivid memories of bustling Saigon, striking desert landscapes, and peaceful delta waterways.

FAQ

What locations are visited on this tour?
You will explore Ho Chi Minh City, the Mui Ne coast with its sand dunes and Cham ruins, and the Mekong River delta with a morning cruise and boat rides.

How long does the drive to Mui Ne take?
The drive from Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne is approximately three hours, offering a scenic transition from city to coast.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers airport transfers, two nights in a superior hotel in central Saigon, daily breakfast, all scheduled transportation, guided tours, cruises, entrance fees, and meals like seafood lunches and dinners.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the package, so you should budget extra for beverages during meals or at other times.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay in a superior-class hotel located conveniently in central Ho Chi Minh City, providing comfort and easy access to the city’s sights.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is suitable for most travelers, especially those comfortable with some early mornings, short drives, and guided group activities.

Can I customize the tour or extend my stay?
Since this is a set package, customizations are not included. However, you might find opportunities to extend your visit after the tour, especially if you want more beach time or city exploration.

How active is the itinerary?
Expect some walking, exploring dunes, boat rides, and a few moments of physical activity, but overall it’s designed to be manageable for most travelers.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable clothing for daytime activities, swimwear for the beaches and river cruises, sun protection, and a camera for capturing the scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here: