City Essentials: First Day • 2 hours
5
(90)
Your Perfect First Day in Ho Chi Minh: Local Tips & Orientation
Start your trip calmly with a local host who helps you get oriented and offers everyday tips for exploring Saigon with confidence
What makes this experience special
Your host plans a first day that matches how you like to explore, from landmarks to daily life, sharing practical tips and insight that make the city feel easy from the start.
Key highlights
- Your host plans around your needs and questions from the first moment
- Learn how to move around the city with local know-how and confidence
- Walk through areas that fit your interests, not a fixed checklist
- Visit key spots at your own pace with time to pause or ask questions
- Discover how locals really use the city, cafés, markets, and streets
- Get personalized advice on transport, customs, and etiquette
- A friendly start that sets the tone for the rest of your trip
What to know before you go
Here’s everything you need to know before your day unfolds.
2 hours
Fully tailored to your preferences
Walking experience may use public transport for long distances
English Other languages may be requested
What’s included
Tailored itinerary based on your preferences
A knowledgeable host who knows the hidden gems
Flexible start times to fit your day
What’s not included
Food, drinks and shopping expenses
Transport fares or attraction entry fees
Meeting point
Saigon Central Post Office, 02 Công trường Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, VietnamCancellation
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experienceWhat to bring
How your day could unfold
A flexible, unscripted experience designed entirely around your interests. Your host will adapt the day based on what excites you mostHere’s what your experience could look like
These are just suggestions from our hosts to inspire your day. Your host will tailor the experience to suit your interests and tastes
Meeting point
Saigon Central Post Office, 02 Công trường Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
1. Select a date
2. Select start time
Real Stories, Real Connections
See our hosts and guests creating memories
Off the beaten path and into local life – unexpected corners, unforgettable moments.
A night to remember – soaking in the sparkle of the skyline with great company.
Embracing the heart of the city – where iconic meets intimate in one perfect pause.
Pausing for a photo, not the adventure
High above the hustle, discovering breathtaking views with those who matter most.
Standing in awe beneath timeless grandeur
From city peaks to memory highs – a skyline framed by connection.
Exploring life by the water – where local charm meets skyline silhouettes.
Reaching new heights together – a toast to trails, tales, and towering skylines.
Catching smiles and stories as the city glides by – an effortless journey with unforgettable faces.
Colourful Streets & Cultural Beats
Rainforest Whispers & Waterfall Wonder
Between Columns and Culture
Chopsticks & Chuckles
Urban Harmony in Every Smile
Above the City, Beneath the Clouds
Golden Hours, Golden Rings
25,672+ 5-Star Reviews and Counting
Trusted and recommended by travelers worldwide, including 99% on Google and TripAdvisor.
recommended by 99% of travelers on google
recommended by 99% of travelers on tripadvisor
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What travelers think of our City Essentials: First Day experiences in Asia
Barbara
Oct 2025
Noguchi’s Moerenuma Park with his biological history was amazing. Ryuki was a good communicator, his English is perfect. He was extremely helpful in taking the role of translator for our personal logistics.
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Jim
Oct 2025
Great tour!!
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Lea
Oct 2025
We had a cruise port stop in Fukuoka and we hired Chris to show us around town for a few hours. He met us at the port and took us to Five different destinations we wanted to see. He will customize base on timeline and your desired wish list. We even got to pop into a 7-Eleven very quickly so we could try one of their Eggie sandwiches. :) Chris teaches English at the local university so it was nice to be able to communicate so clearly We were done on time and he assisted us with the directions back to the ship, definitely better than a ship tour!
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Torsten
Sep 2025
Great!
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Alexandra
Sep 2025
Great tour!
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Alexandra
Sep 2025
Our Tourist guide was so nice and knew so many interesting things to tell us. We felt really confident with Jade - it was very interesting and she showed us the secrets of Hoi An. We can highly recommend her as tourist guide ❤️
Show moreFAQs
Your questions, answered
Is this a traditional tour or something different?
This isn’t a traditional tour with a fixed script. It’s a fully personalized day shaped around your interests, whether it’s culture, history, neighborhoods, or hidden local spots. Your host is a knowledgeable local, more like a friend showing you their city. It’s flexible, one-on-one, and tailored entirely to you.
How does personalization work?
After booking, you’ll receive a short questionnaire where you can share your interests, travel style, and any must-see spots. Based on that, we’ll match you with a local host who’ll reach out to plan your personalized itinerary..
Can I adjust the plan on the day?
Absolutely. Your host can adjust the itinerary on the day based on your pace, energy, or any new ideas you have. It’s a flexible experience from start to finish.
Will I know my itinerary in advance?
Yes, you will have the opportunity to chat with your host directly and agree on a plan for the day. However, there’s always room for spontaneity and local surprises!
Can I request specific places or types of stops?
Yes! After booking, you will receive a questionnaire where you can highlight must-visit spots and anything else you’d like to include, and your host will craft your experience around them.
Can I change the meeting place?
Yes, you will be in touch with your host before your experience, and you can agree on a different meeting point with them. Your host can meet you anywhere central that’s convenient.
Can my host meet me at my accommodation?
Hotel meet-ups are available upon request in central areas. If you're staying outside the city, your host will recommend the best meeting spot and guide you with directions.
Will I see famous landmarks or just hidden gems?
Both! Your host will take you to iconic sights if you want to see them, but they’ll also introduce you to places and stories most travelers miss.