HO CHI MINH FULL-DAY TOUR – SHORE EXCURSION FROM PHU MY PORT
If your cruise is docking in Ho Chi Minh City, there is no better way to explore Vietnam’s most vibrant metropolis than with a fully-customisable Ho Chi Minh City private tour. Designed specifically for cruise passengers, this shore excursion blends culture, history, food, and iconic landmarks into an unforgettable full-day experience.
Whether you prefer to follow a curated itinerary or personalise your entire journey, this tour ensures you enjoy the very best of Saigon – from colonial architecture and bustling markets to war history and local coffee culture. Because shore excursions often sell ot quickly, early booking is highly recommended.
Tour Highlights
- Convenient pick-up & drop-off from Phu My Port
- Enjoy a traditional cyclo ride passing through 10 lively local markets
- Visit major landmarks: Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Independence Palace
- Learn how to make authentic Vietnamese dripping coffee
- Optional panoramic city view from a skydeck
- Fully customisable private experience tailored to your timing
Detailed Itinerary: Your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City
Warm welcome at the port
Your guide will greet you at the port with:
- A sign board with your name
- A warm Vietnamese welcome
- Comfortable, air-conditioned transport
From the port, your journey into heart of Ho Chi Minh begins.
Ride a traditional cyclo through local markets.
Start your city immersion with an iconic cyclo ride, one of the most unique and authentic ways to explore Saigon.
You will pass through 10 bustling locals markets, witnessing:
- Bright fabrics and local handicrafts
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Street food stalls with irresistible armas
- the every rhythms of Saigonese life
This ride is a fantastic introduction to the energy, color and culture of Ho Chi Minh City.
Discover Thien Hau Temple – A culture Treasure
Next, you will visit Thien Hau Temple, a chinese-influenced architectual gem located in the heart of Chinatown. This National Architectural Heritage Site offers:
- Intricate carvings
- Ancient ceramics
- Sacred altars
- Insight into Vietnamese folk beliefs
A peaceful culture stop amid the city’s dynamic atmosphere.
War Remnants Museum – A moving historical experience
Prepare for a powerful and emotional moment at the War Remnants Museum, featuring:
- Hard-hitting civilian-centered exhibits
- the renowned Requiem gallery by wartime photographers
- Mutil-layered perspective on the Vietnam War
This museum leaves a lasting impression and is one of the most important stops in Ho Chi Minh City.
Independence Palace – Step into a time capsule
Continue to the historic Independence Palace, featuring:
- Secret command rooms
- A preserved war bunker
- Original tanks from 1975
- Immaculate architecture from the 1960s
It’s one of Saigon’s most iconic political landmarks.
Vietnamese lunch & coffee-making experience
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch. Then learn how to make Vietnamese dripping coffee – a signature culture experience. This sweet, strong beverage is a staple in daily Vietnamese life.
Exploration Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office
You will ten take a relaxing walk through the city’s French Quater to see:
Notre Dame Cathedral
Built entirely with imported French materials, this church showcases neo-Romanesque architecture.
Central Post Office
Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s company, the building features:
- High vaulted ceilings
- Antique telephone booths
- Detailed colonial-era maps
From here, your guide will point out the former CIA Headquarters, sharing the dramatic story of the last helicopter out of Saigon.
Opera House & City Hall – Saigon beautiful icons
Continue your stroll to admire two architectural masterpieces:
- Saigon Opera House
- Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Perfect for photos and learning about colonial-era design.
Optional: Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
For breathtaking 360° views of the city, you may choose to visit the Bitexco Skydeck (additional fee applies). This is the perfect way to wrap up your day.
Many visitors say that the Bitexco Financial Tower looks similar to buildings in Marvel movies. The tower’s modern shape and shiny glass make it feel like something from a superhero city. There is no real connection to Marvel, but people enjoy pointing out the resemblance. For tourists, this fun comparison makes Bitexco even more interesting to see when exploring Ho Chi Minh City.
Return to port on time
Your guide will drive you safely back to your port with plenty of time before your ship departs. Expect helpful final tips, warm goodbyes, and unforgettable memories.
Price (From $100/person)
(Private group pricing – the more people, the lower the cost)
- 1 person: $230
- 2 people: $109 per person
- 3 people: $109 per person
- 4 people: $99 per person
- 5–8 people: $99 per person
- 9+ people: $99 per person
Season: Year-round
Duration: ~8 hours (adjusted depending on your ship schedule)
Max Group Size: We can accommodate a big group of up to 35 people. However, we recommend a max of 15/group to get the best experience.
Meeting point: Phu My Port
Inclusions
what’s included
- All entrance fees
- All taxes included
- Fully air-conditioned vehicle
- Unlimited bottled water
- English-speaking guide
- Vietnamese lunch (dietary needs accommodated – inform us in advance)
Not included
- Tip
- Booking fees
Need to know
What to bring
- Suncreen
- Hat
- Insect repellent
- Light jacket
What to wear
Please dress respectfully: shoulder and knees should be covered ar all times, especially when visiting temples or religious sites.
Final Thoughts
This Ho Chi Minh full-day tour – Shore Excursion is the perfect choice for cruise travelers who want a comprehensive, comfortable, amd culturally rich day in Vietnam’s largest city. With expert guides, flexible itineraries, and all-inclusive convenience, you will enjoy the very best of Saigon – from historic sites and spiritual landmarks to markets life, local food, and coffee culture.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, pr simply curious about Vietnam, this tour offers an immersive experience you will never forget.
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Saigon Taste Tours team
Welcome to SAIGON TASTE Tours!We’re a team of passionate local guides dedicated to sharing the real Saigon and Vietnam through food, culture, and hidden gems. From bustling street food stalls and historic landmarks to outdoor adventures and peaceful nature escapes, our tours are designed to be authentic and unforgettable. Every experience is private and tailored to you, guided by knowledgeable locals who go above and beyond to make you feel like you’re exploring with a friend. With us, you won’t just visit Vietnam — you’ll truly experience it.We can’t wait to welcome you! Best regards, Ben and the SAIGON TASTE Tours
saigontastetours@gmail.com
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