The South
During the 1960s, the South developed a reputation for a more westernized culture. There’s more of a party atmosphere, more shots of rice wine, and more late-night sidewalk feasts. This is also where you’ll find Vietnam’s largest and most populous city, Ho Chi Minh City. Visit museums here to get a sense of the government-sanctioned outlook on the country’s tumultuous history.
Reunification Palace
Originally named the Presidential Palace, the Reunification Palace was a key chess piece in the struggle between the North Vietnamese Communist Party and the US-backed South Vietnamese government. On April 30, 1975, two tanks manned by the National Liberation Front crashed through the palace gates, forcing the surrender of the South Vietnamese president, who turned over power after only two days in office. The palace was promptly renamed, while the takeover signified the end of the war and two decades of American presence in South Vietnam.
Explore PlaceWar Remnants Museum
Easily one of the most highly charged stops on any Ho Chi Minh City tour, the War Remnants Museum has three floors of exhibits and galleries dedicated to telling the story of the Vietnam War from the perspective of the North Vietnamese. Many of the photographs and displays are extremely graphic and disturbing, so make this stop only if you're mentally prepared.
Explore PlaceBen Thanh Market
Residents in Ho Chi Minh City have a saying that goes, “If it’s in Ho Chi Minh City, you can find it in Ben Thanh Market.” The city’s central market spreads on one side of a major roundabout in District 1, which has been the market’s location for more than a century.
Explore PlaceHo Chi Minh City
There’s no better place to get a feel for urban Vietnam than the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This is Vietnam's largest city and one of the country's most free-spirited destinations. Still referred to as ‘Saigon’ by locals, it is known for hordes of motorbikes, mouthwatering food, and hip coffee shops.
Explore PlaceVung Tau
For a quick getaway to a sunny coast, a breath of fresh air, and a few nights above the sand, here is an easy solution. The nearest beach escape from the hustle of Ho Chi Minh City, breezy Vung Tau receives its fair share of expat and local vacationers, but not many tourists.
Explore PlaceDong Nai
To the east of Ho Chi Minh City, the Dong Nai Province encompasses the Cat Tien National Park. Travelers come here to take incredible, scenic hikes and see some of Vietnam’s endangered wildlife. Although just a short distance outside of Ho Chi Minh City, it feels a universe away from its steamy streets filled with city scooters.
Explore PlaceMore about The South
Ho Chi Minh formerly went by Saigon and served as the capital of the Republic of Vietnam (aka South Vietnam). Many locals still refer to it by its old name. In Ho Chi Minh’s historic district, you’ll get a powerful sense of the country’s colonial history. Walking tours of the city will take you to French landmarks like the Saigon Opera House and the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral. This is also where you’ll find some of Vietnam’s top nightlife, with exclusive bars that require a dress code. Travel outside of Ho Chi Minh to see the Cu Chi Tunnels — a fascinating place to learn about the Vietnam War and the central role these tunnels played in the Tet Offensive.
Itineraries through South Vietnam should include a stop at Cat Tien National Park. This is a UNESCO Heritage Site in recognition of its populations of endangered animals, including some endemic species. It’s also home to the Chau Ma and Stieng minority communities, adding its appeal as a carefully preserved piece of rural Vietnam.
Browse some of our favorite itineraries
Get excited and browse our selection of our favorite hand made tours including The South. From romantic honeymoons to family-fun; these are completely flexible and arranged to your needs.
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Our Ultimate Vietnamese Adventure
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Our Family Week in Vietnam
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It's more than just having a good time or visiting beautiful places (although that's absolutely a part of it!), it's about being part of a unique experience that stays with you.
