Ho Chi Minh City stands out as a vibrant hub where history, culture, and modern life collide. This city is packed with stories of war, colonial architecture, and resilience—and luckily, it offers a wide array of historical tours to bring those stories to life. Whether you’re zooming around on a scooter or exploring underground tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City offers authentic ways to understand its past. One of our favorites is the Saigon Afternoon City Historical Scooter Tour, which combines the thrill of zipping through traffic with visits to major sites like the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. Plus, the chance to explore colonial landmarks on a motorbike makes for an unforgettable experience.
If you prefer a more immersive or private experience, the Private Saigon History, Hidden Gems & Culture Motorbike Tour offers a tailored route across districts, with stops at secretive weapon bunkers and local markets. For those interested in Vietnam’s wartime underground network, the Cu Chi tunnels are a must-visit, and options range from half-day group tours to private, in-depth explorations. Ho Chi Minh City’s rich mix of colonial heritage, wartime relics, and bustling street life makes it a perfect city for history enthusiasts.
Quick Overview
Ho Chi Minh City offers a variety of history-focused experiences, including motorbike tours, walking explorations, and full-day excursions. For a fast-paced introduction, the Saigon Morning City Historical Scooter Tour provides a lively ride through key sites like the War Remnants Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. If you’re after off-the-beaten-path sites, the Private Cu Chi Tunnels Tour delves into Vietnam’s underground war history with a personalized touch. Budget travelers will find options like the Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day Tour, which combines history with affordable prices, while full-day tours let you explore multiple districts and landmarks.
Below, we’ve ranked and described 15 of the best historical tours in Ho Chi Minh City, carefully considering their content, reviews, and value.
1. Saigon Afternoon City Historical Scooter Tour
This private 4-hour scooter tour is a lively way to see Ho Chi Minh City’s key sites without the hassle of traffic. You’ll zip around on a motorbike, visiting landmarks like the War Remnants Museum, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office, all while your guide shares stories about Vietnam’s recent past. The tour’s highlight is the personalized experience—no big bus, no crowd, just you and your driver.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of comfort and authenticity: hotel pickups, flexible stops, and the chance to ask endless questions. It’s praised for its safety and knowledgeable guides like Jus and Navin, who make navigating chaotic traffic fun and educational. The reviews consistently mention how this tour is the best way to see Saigon after landing, with one saying it felt “very safe in the crazy traffic.”
Bottom Line: A perfect pick for travelers wanting a personal, fast-paced overview of Ho Chi Minh’s top sights with a dash of adventure.
2. Private Saigon History, Hidden Gems & Culture Motorbike Tour
This customizable motorbike tour is suited for those eager to explore less touristy spots. Starting at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, your guide takes you through districts 1, 3, and 10, showing how Saigon’s neighborhoods differ. Highlights include flower markets, secret weapon bunkers, and a stop at a famous Vietnam War-era coffee shop where you can peek into a tunnel used during the conflict.
The tour is highly rated, with travelers noting guides like Kien and Harry who are enthusiastic and knowledgeable. The inclusion of a complimentary Vietnamese breakfast and visits to off-the-beaten-path sites makes this an engaging mix of culture and history. One reviewer shares how they felt “completely safe” on the scooters, even in busy traffic.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a personalized, insightful ride exploring Saigon’s hidden corners and vibrant street life.
3. Vung Tau Essential: Beach, Christ Statue & Colonial Heritage
A day trip that combines beach relaxation with cultural sightseeing, this tour takes you from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau. You’ll visit the Jesus Christ Statue for panoramic views, explore the White Palace, and enjoy a delicious lunch included in the price. The tour also features visits to Whale Temple and some free time at Thuy Van Beach.
Rated highly for its balanced mix of history, nature, and leisure, this tour offers a rundown of Vung Tau’s colonial and spiritual sites. The scenic drive and comfortable transportation make it easy to relax, while the visits to landmarks like the Cape Nghinh Phong provide cultural depth. Reviewers love the tour for its great views and delicious lunch.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a full-day escape combining beach, history, and scenic coastal views.
4. Saigon Morning City Historical Scooter Tour w Ao Dai Rider option
This 4-hour private scooter experience is a fantastic way to start your day. It covers major sites like the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Jade Emperor Pagoda, all while riding on the back of a scooter—an experience that’s both exhilarating and intimate. The tour offers an option to include an Ao Dai rider, adding a cultural flair to your adventure.
What sets this tour apart is its convenient hotel pickup and focus on history, making it ideal for first-timers. Guests praise the safety and friendliness of the guides, with many noting how fun and informative the ride is.
Bottom Line: Suited for those who want a fast, engaging, and personalized introduction to Saigon’s landmarks without sacrificing comfort.
5. Full-Day Ho Chi Minh City Tour with Colonial Heritage & Chinatown
This full-day private tour offers a broad look at Ho Chi Minh City’s history, architecture, and vibe. It includes visits to the Reunification Palace, the Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Central Post Office, with an additional stop at Chinatown. A unique feature is the water bus tour across Bach Dang Harbor, providing scenic views of the city skyline.
Rated highly for its comprehensive itinerary and expert guiding, this tour is perfect for those wanting to maximize their time. The inclusion of lunch and transportation ensures a seamless experience, making it an excellent value for a full day of exploration.
Bottom Line: A good choice for travelers who want a deep, all-encompassing look at Ho Chi Minh City’s key historical and cultural sites in one day.
6. From Ho Chi Minh: Cu Chi Tunnels Half-Day History Tour + Snacks
This budget-friendly half-day tour takes you to the famous Cu Chi Tunnels with hotel pickup. You’ll watch a documentary, explore the tunnels and bunkers, and even try local war-time foods like tapioca. The tour lasts around 6 hours and is perfect for those interested in Vietnam’s wartime strategies.
The reviews emphasize how informative the guide is, with many mentioning that it’s a must-do for understanding Vietnam’s history. The tour’s affordable price makes it accessible, and the snacks included add a nice touch.
Bottom Line: Excellent for history lovers on a budget who want to see the underground network that shaped Vietnam’s past.
7. 6 Hours Historical Tour in Cu Chi Tunnel with Free Snack
This tour offers a short, immersive experience exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels with a focus on history and architecture. It includes a visit to booby traps, the hospital, and the fight bunkers. The tour also provides time to crawl through tunnels, giving you a hands-on understanding of wartime conditions.
Rated for its informative guide and value, this tour is ideal for travelers with limited time but a deep interest in Vietnam’s wartime history. It’s praised for its well-paced schedule and small group size.
Bottom Line: A compact yet thorough option for those wanting to experience Cu Chi’s underground tunnels without a long day.
8. Saigon Historical City Tour
This 4-hour tour focuses on the historical core of Ho Chi Minh City, walking through the Notre Dame Cathedral, Post Office, and Independence Palace. It includes hotel pickup by scooter, making it a lively and engaging introduction.
Reviewers highlight the personalized approach and deep insights, especially the story about the Vietnamese monk who self-immolated. The tour is suitable for first-timers and those wanting a short but meaningful history lesson.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a focused, walking-based overview of Saigon’s main historical landmarks.
9. Private Cu Chi Tunnels Tour – Explore History & Off-the-Path Local Sites
This private 7-8 hour tour is perfect for history enthusiasts wanting deep insights. It combines a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels with stops at little-known sites like a rice paper village and local markets.
The guide provides personal attention and allows plenty of time to ask questions. The longer duration means you get a more genuine feel for Vietnam’s wartime efforts and local life. Reviewers appreciate the detailed storytelling and customization options.
Bottom Line: Recommended for travelers craving an in-depth, personalized history experience beyond the standard tourist route.
10. Cu Chi Tunnels Guided Tour: Vietnam War History Half-Day
This a/c bus tour offers a guided half-day exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels. It’s straightforward, with storytelling about Vietnam’s military history and the chance to crawl through original tunnels. The small or large group options cater to different budgets.
Rated well for engaging guides and accessible logistics, it’s a good choice for those who prefer organized, less physically demanding visits. The reviews mention how it provides powerful stories and hands-on experiences.
Bottom Line: Suitable for travelers who want a guided, comfortable way to learn about Vietnam’s war tunnels.
11. Historical Walking Tour of Saigon
This 2.5 to 3-hour walking tour covers top sites like the Independence Palace, Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral. It combines history and architecture with a chance to relax over Vietnamese egg coffee by the Saigon River.
Perfect for first-time visitors or those who prefer walking, the tour provides deep stories about Saigon’s past. Reviewers love the personalized service and the opportunity to see both famous landmarks and hidden corners.
Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a short, history-rich stroll with local flavor.
12. Cu Chi Tunnels by Jeep – The Ultimate Off-Road War History Tour
This adventurous 5-hour tour combines off-road fun with a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels. Riding in a vintage jeep, you explore the tunnels and surrounding countryside, feeling like you’re back in wartime.
Rated top for its unique experience and scenic ride, it’s perfect for those who want to combine history with a bit of thrill. The durability of the vehicles and the longer exploration make it stand out.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a memorable, adrenaline-fueled way to explore Vietnam’s war history.
13. Explore Cu Chi Tunnels & Saigon History 1 Day Tour
This full-day tour covers Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, and Chinatown. It includes a special lunch and a scenic water bus ride, making it perfect for those wanting a rundown.
Rated highly for depth of content and smooth logistics, it suits travelers who want to see many facets of Saigon in one day. The guides are praised for their engaging storytelling and local insights.
Bottom Line: Best for visitors who want a full, diverse exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s war history and multicultural sites.
14. Ho Chi Minh Best Walking Tour: Food, Coffee & History
This 4-hour walking experience mixes Vietnamese dishes, local coffee, and history. Starting with the Thich Quang Duc monument, you’ll explore authentic eateries, historic neighborhoods, and end with a relaxing coffee break.
It’s ideal for food lovers and those who enjoy cultural stories. Travelers mention how the guide’s storytelling makes the city’s history come alive while also tasting local flavors.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a culinary and cultural introduction combined with walking.
15. Ho Chi Minh City Tour with Colonial Heritage and Chinatown
This full-day small group tour visits Independence Palace, Notre Dame, Chinatown, and includes a scenic Waterbus ride. It balances history, architecture, and local culture with a focus on Vietnamese and colonial influences.
Rated highly for its well-rounded itinerary and personalized guide service, it suits travelers who want to combine sightseeing, history, and local flavor in one package.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a comprehensive, culturally rich experience of Ho Chi Minh City.
How to Choose Your Ideal Historical Tour
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re after a speedy overview, the Saigon Morning City Historical Scooter Tour offers quick access to major landmarks. For a deep dive into Vietnam’s wartime history, the private Cu Chi Tunnels tours provide detailed stories and personalized attention, with options like the Private Cu Chi Tunnels Tour or the Half-Day Guided Tour. Budget travelers will appreciate the half-day group tour, which packs history into a shorter, more affordable experience.
If you’re interested in combining cultural sites, consider a full-day tour like the Chinatown and Colonial Heritage. For active explorers, the scooter or jeep rides add a fun element that makes the city’s stories more tangible.
Final thoughts
Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of history-focused tours, from fast-paced scooter rides to in-depth private explorations. If you’re new to the city, the Saigon Afternoon Scooter Tour is a fantastic starting point. For those craving a detailed war history, the Cu Chi tunnels—especially the private or jeep options—are unbeatable. Travelers with limited time and a curiosity for Vietnam’s colonial past will find the full-day cultural tour a perfect fit.
Whatever your style, booking early ensures you secure a spot on these popular experiences. Ho Chi Minh City’s history is waiting—dive in and discover its stories firsthand.