Travel guide
Visiting Saigon and the Mekong Delta
Ho Chi Minh City, still widely called Saigon, is Vietnam's biggest and busiest city. To the south, the Mekong Delta is a world of rivers, canals, orchards and floating markets.
Best time to go
December to April is dry. May to November brings short, heavy afternoon rain. River levels in the delta are highest from about September to November.
What to see
- The War Remnants Museum, the Central Post Office and Ben Thanh Market.
- The Cu Chi tunnels, about 1.5 to 2 hours from the city.
- Boat trips through the Mekong Delta's canals.
- The early-morning Cai Rang floating market near Can Tho.
Getting there
Tan Son Nhat airport (SGN) is in the city. Can Tho is about 3.5 hours by road, and our 2-day Mekong trip includes the night there.
Frequently asked questions
Is one day enough for the Mekong Delta?
A day trip shows you the canals. To see the Cai Rang floating market, which is busiest at dawn, it's much easier to stay overnight in Can Tho.
How many days should I spend in Ho Chi Minh City?
Two days covers the city and the Cu Chi tunnels.