Art is our guide for this unique exploration of the stories of Saigon and Vietnam – From Sacred sculpture to socialist propaganda and contemporary art.

Starting with the ancient history of southern Vietnam, we look at traditional Khmer and Cham pieces, before exploring dynastic art, the art of the French colonial period, Communist propaganda and battlefield art.

We wrap up with a look at the dynamism of Vietnam’s contemporary art, including a visit to a local artist’s studio. We’ll reference art back to its context in the complex evolution of Saigon and Vietnam to the present.

YOUR GUIDES

Duong and Nhi, our expert guides, have been interested in Vietnamese art for decades. Nhi’s father is a lacquer artist and Duong began working in a Saigon contemporary art gallery after graduating from university. She counts Saigon based artists and gallery owners among her friends. Their interest in Vietnamese art has expanded beyond the contemporary scene to the centuries of art that have been created here and the connection between art and the city’s past.

WHO YOU ARE
You’re a curious, active traveller interested in exploring Saigon through its art history. You’ll need to be mobile – but we move at a casual speed. Expect to be on your feet for 3 – 4 hours with some breaks.

HOW WE GET AROUND
We walk between some of the places we visit. We also use a quality private car or van when required.

The tour commences at 8.30AM at The Old Compass Cafe in the heart of Saigon where we begin with a briefing. We conclude at around 12PM in District 1.

WHAT YOU NEED
Comfortable walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, water bottle.

COST
9.300,000VND or $365USD per group (1 – 4 pax)