Southern Vietnam is a lively mix of history, culture, and scenery, making it a fantastic destination for guided tours. Whether it’s walking through underground war tunnels, cruising along mangrove forests, or exploring bustling markets, this region offers an array of experiences that bring the local stories and traditions to life. For example, the Private Shore Excursion: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City from Phu My Port takes you below ground to see where Viet Cong fighters once hid, while the Mekong Delta Tour offers a water-based journey into Vietnam’s rice-growing heartland. With so many options, you can choose a tour that fits your interests, schedule, and style.
Quick Overview
In this list, we highlight 15 of the best tours in Southern Vietnam, covering a variety of interests. From private city sightseeing and heritage tours to full-day excursions in the Mekong Delta and boat trips along rivers, each experience offers something unique. Some tours focus on wartime history, like exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels (see Tour #1), while others explore local markets or religious sites. The list includes private guides, small group experiences, and full-day adventures, ensuring there’s something for every traveler.
1. Private Shore Excursion: Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City from Phu My Port
This private tour offers a personalized visit to the legendary Cu Chi Tunnels combined with a stroll through Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling streets. It lasts approximately 7 to 12 hours and costs $149 per person. You’ll explore the underground network where Viet Cong fighters hid and fought during the Vietnam War, walking through secret passages, trapdoors, and storage rooms. Your guide will tell vivid stories of life in the tunnels, making history come alive. Afterwards, a quick stop at Ben Thanh Market provides a chance to shop for local arts and crafts. This tour stands out for its flexibility and private guide, perfect for those wanting an in-depth, tailored experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for history enthusiasts and travelers valuing personal service, this tour offers a detailed look at wartime Vietnam with plenty of time to explore.
2. PHU MY SHORE EXCURSION: Car Services + LOCAL TOUR GUIDE in Saigon
For around $119, the Phu My Shore Excursion provides a flexible, private day exploring Ho Chi Minh City. This 8-hour tour includes visits to key sites such as the Independence Palace, Central Post Office, and the Notre Dame Cathedral, along with a tasty local lunch. Your guide can customize the stops based on your interests, from museums to markets. Reviewers appreciate the smooth logistics, especially since transportation is included, avoiding the hassle of hailing taxis or navigating traffic. The tour is perfect for those wanting a relaxed, private experience with insightful commentary.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a personal, customizable city tour with all entry fees included and no stress.
3. Private Ho Minh City Sightseeing Shore Excursion From Phu My Port
This 10-hour private tour costs about $110 per person and dives into Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights, blending historic sites with local flavor. You’ll visit the War Museum, see the Water Bus (Ferry), and explore landmarks like the City Hall and Opera House. The tour emphasizes flexibility, allowing you to spend more time at your favorite spots. Reviewers mention the guide’s engaging storytelling, which brings history to life, and appreciate the well-organized logistics. It’s suitable for travelers who want a balanced mix of culture, history, and local life, all with the comfort of private transportation.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, flexible private experience suited for those who want to maximize their time in the city.
4. Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon City Tour from Phu My Port
At number 4, this Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon City Tour combines underground exploration with city sightseeing in a 7 to 11-hour package for $139. The tour includes a visit to a section of the tunnels, where you’ll see trapdoors and storage facilities, and learn how the Viet Cong survived during the war. Later, you’ll explore the Notre Dame Cathedral and Saigon Post Office, both excellent examples of French colonial architecture. Reviewers note the tour’s thoroughness and the guide’s ability to explain complex history in an accessible manner. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a full day combining history and culture.
Bottom Line: A solid choice for history buffs and those wanting a comprehensive tour with a mix of underground history and city sights.
5. Best of Saigon Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Cruise Port
For a shorter but packed half-day, the Best of Saigon hits many highlights in about 6 hours for $115. You’ll visit the War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market, and Thien Hay Temple, along with a Vietnamese lunch. This tour is perfect if you want to squeeze in the essentials without rushing or missing out. Reviewers praise the guides for their friendly service and deep knowledge. It suits cruise travelers who want an efficient but meaningful overview of Saigon’s top sights, with the convenience of round-trip port transfers.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those short on time but eager to experience Vietnam’s history, food, and culture.
6. Private Mekong Delta Tour – My Tho – Ben Tre from Cruise Port
Number 6 on our list, the Private Mekong Delta Tour at $139 per person, is a water-focused adventure lasting around 7 to 15 hours. You’ll start in My Tho, cruising on traditional longtail boats, visiting Ben Tre Village, and tasting tropical fruits. Highlights include a rice wine distillery and a honey bee farm. This tour offers a personal touch and a chance to see the lush riverine landscape up close. Renowned for its scenic beauty and authentic experiences, it’s a great fit for travelers wanting to explore Vietnam’s agricultural heartland.
Guests say: “Our guide Mr. Fabio was very knowledgeable, helpful and pleasant.”
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a relaxed, water-based exploration of Vietnam’s rural life.
7. Saigon in a Day from Phu My Cruise Harbor
This full-day, private tour costing $202 offers an in-depth look at Ho Chi Minh City’s key landmarks, including the Re-Unification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral. With a flexible itinerary, it’s designed for cruise passengers wanting to see a lot in one day without feeling rushed. Reviewers highlight the guides’ professionalism and the carefully curated stops. It’s ideal for travelers willing to prioritize sightseeing and want a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive option for maximum sightseeing in a single day, with the comfort of private transport and tailored stops.
8. Vung Tau City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port
Number 8 offers a 6 to 8-hour private tour to Vung Tau, including visits to beaches like Front Beach and Pineapple Beach, plus the Christ the King Statue. For $135, this trip provides a relaxing break from city sightseeing, with options for swimming or just enjoying the sea views. The tour includes an included local lunch and the chance to explore at your own pace. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and the scenic, less crowded beaches.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of cultural sightseeing and beach relaxation.
9. Phu My Port: Bestseller Top Site Saigon Trip/Cu Chi Tunnel
This 7 to 8-hour tour, priced at $134, offers a bestseller package combining Saigon highlights and the Cu Chi Tunnels. It’s perfect if you want a well-rounded experience, exploring historic sites and the underground network used in wartime. The tour includes a detailed visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels, with visitors able to see trapdoors and storage rooms, and a city tour of key landmarks. Reviewers emphasize the guide’s knowledge and the well-coordinated logistics.
Bottom Line: A great pick for travelers wanting a blend of history, culture, and efficient use of time.
10. Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion Private Tour From Phu My Port
This 8-hour private experience at $104 includes visits to Re-Unification Palace, Saigon Opera House, and Saigon River kayaking. It caters to travelers who want a flexible, private day that combines cultural landmarks with a relaxing river activity. Reviewers mention the ease of transport and the knowledgeable guides making the history accessible. It’s excellent for those seeking a mix of sightseeing and leisure.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers looking for a personalized, diverse day in Ho Chi Minh City.
11. Private Saigon city from Phu My Port
This 7 to 8-hour tour, costing $155, takes you through French colonial architecture, local markets, and the War Remnants Museum. The guide’s detailed storytelling makes history engaging, and reviews praise the seamless logistics and friendly service. It is suited for travelers who want an intimate look at Saigon’s past and present, with plenty of time to explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for travelers wanting a deep dive into Saigon’s history with personalized attention.
12. From Ho Chi Minh: Mekong Delta 3 Days Chau Doc, Cai Be tour
Number 12 offers a 3-day journey into the Mekong River region for $195 per person. This tour includes visits to floating markets, Tra Su Forest, and Cai Rang. It’s a comprehensive way to see the rural side of Vietnam, with opportunities to taste local fruits and learn traditional crafts. Fans of longer, immersive trips will appreciate the detailed itinerary, and previous travelers mention Trena’s excellent guidance.
Bottom Line: Best suited for adventurous travelers wanting to experience multiple aspects of the Mekong’s culture and landscape over several days.
13. Cambodia-Viet Nam: 3 Days Mekong tour An Giang – Can Tho – HCM
This 3-day tour for $298 takes you through Chau Doc, Ba Chua Xu Temple, Sam Mountain, and the Tra Su Bird Sanctuary. It’s perfect if you want a deep, multi-day experience exploring both Vietnamese and Cambodian regions, with visits to floating markets and mangrove forests. Past travelers mention the guide’s responsiveness and the opportunity for authentic cultural encounters.
Bottom Line: Designed for travelers seeking an extended, in-depth Mekong experience with cross-border highlights.
14. Cultural Bike Tour in Nam Cat Tien
For a quick, active outing, this Cultural Bike Tour lasts 2-3 hours and costs just $15.73. You’ll cycle through rice fields, local markets, and temples, gaining insight into Vietnamese rural life. It’s ideal for active travelers wanting a hands-on experience of the countryside without a full-day commitment.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a short, engaging taste of Vietnam’s rural culture with minimal planning.
15. Ho Chi Minh Shore Excursion: Private Historic Saigon & Food Tour
Finally, the Private Historic Saigon & Food Tour offers a culinary and cultural deep-dive in 6 to 12 hours for $125. You’ll explore landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Reunification Palace, then enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes at local eateries. The guide’s expertise ensures a meaningful experience through historical sites and delicious food. Reviewers value the personalized service and the chance to sample Vietnam’s flavors directly.
Bottom Line: Perfect for food lovers and history fans wanting an immersive, personalized day.
How to Choose Your Tour
Selecting the right tour in Southern Vietnam depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you love history and underground warfare, the Cu Chi Tunnels offers an in-depth look at wartime Vietnam. For those wanting a water-based experience, the Mekong Delta Tour combines scenic boat rides with local crafts. Budget travelers may prefer short, focused visits like the Saigon in a Day, while travelers with more time should consider multi-day tours such as the Chau Doc Mekong trip.
Practical tips include booking early to secure spots on popular tours, especially during peak seasons, and considering your fitness level—some tours involve walking or biking, like the Cultural Bike Tour. Also, think about your preferences for private guides versus small group experiences to match your comfort level.
Final Thoughts
Southern Vietnam offers a diverse array of tours that cater to history buffs, food lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural explorers alike. For a comprehensive experience, the Cu Chi Tunnels & Ho Chi Minh City tour is hard to beat, while water enthusiasts might prefer the Mekong Delta. Budget travelers will find value in shorter, activity-packed trips like the Bike Tour in Nam Cat Tien, and those with more time should consider multi-day excursions that dive deeper into the region’s landscapes and cultures.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these top-rated experiences. Southern Vietnam’s tours promise a memorable way to understand this complex, vibrant corner of the world—so pick one that matches your interests and enjoy the journey.