Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions are an ideal option for cruise ship passengers docking at Phu My Port who wish to explore the city’s highlights in just one day. By booking these excursions, you can visit top-rated landmarks, including the Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Saigon Central Post Office, and Notre Dame Cathedral, offering a comprehensive overview of Ho Chi Minh City’s rich history and vibrant culture. Additionally, you’ll have the chance to savor some of the most delicious local cuisine, making the experience even more memorable.

These tours typically provide seamless transportation, knowledgeable guides, and well-organized itineraries to ensure you maximize your time in the city.

With over 16 years of experience in organizing Vietnam tour packages or Ho Chi Minh Tours for international customers, lalatour offer a local perspective that ensures a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you and your family. Explore our suggested Vietnam Shore Excursions to discover the best of what Vietnam has to offer. If you don’t find an itinerary that suits your needs, feel free to reach out to our Vietnam travel experts. We’ll work with you to customize a unique Halong bay Shore Excursion from Phu My Port, tailored exclusively for you and your group.

Ho Chi Minh Shore Excursions from Phu My Port: 10 summary you should remember

Port: Ho Chi Minh city Phu My port
Pickup location: Ho Chi Minh city ( Phu My port )
Drop-off location: Ho Chi Minh city ( Phu My port)
Shore excursion duration: 8 – 10 hours
Transportation: New Private car from 4 – 7 – 16 seater with good air-conditioner
Tour Type: Ho Chi Minh shore excursions – Phu My port shore excursions
Difficulty level: Easy
Restriction: Should take on long arm shirt and trousers (to visit temple or pagoda)
Allergy: Tell us which food you get trouble allergy with it
Another note: if you need us notice anything, please take note for us

it is very good recommendation, you can take only 1 minutes to fill this form to help us to understand about your requirement tour and you here Tailor-made tour requirement

Ho Chi Minh shore excursions itinerary

Option 1: Ho Chi Minh City Tour – Full Day Private Tour

End of Tour: Return to Phu My Port with plenty of time to reboard your cruise ship, enriched by the sights, sounds, and tastes of Ho Chi Minh City.

08:00 AM: Begin your Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion as our tour guide and driver pick you up from Phu My Port. As you travel to the city, enjoy scenic landscapes along the way.

First Stop: Independence Palace
Visit the historic Independence Palace, formerly the palace of the South Vietnamese president before 1975. The palace showcases a blend of Vietnamese traditional philosophy and modern architectural elements, providing a glimpse into the country’s political history.

Second Stop: War Remnants Museum
Continue to the War Remnants Museum, one of Saigon’s oldest and most impactful museums. Opened in 1975, the museum reveals the brutal realities of the Vietnam War and has undergone various renovations to reflect the evolving relationship between Vietnam and the U.S.

Third Stop: Notre Dame Cathedral & Central Post Office
Visit the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office, both landmarks rich in French colonial architecture. These sites are integral to the city’s heritage and a window into its past.

Lunch: Enjoy an authentic meal at a local restaurant, sampling some of the best flavors that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer.

Afternoon: Chinatown & Thien Hau Temple
Head to Chinatown and visit the historic Thien Hau Temple, a beautiful shrine dedicated to the sea goddess. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the district.

Special Experience: Trishaw Ride
Take a memorable trishaw ride, winding through the bustling streets, witnessing the vibrant life of local markets, street cafés, and modern eateries.

Option 2: Cu Chi Tunnels and Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions Tour

08:00 AM: Start your journey as our tour guide and driver pick you up from Sai Gon Port. The tour begins with a scenic transfer to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels, one of the most remarkable sites from the Vietnam War.
Morning: Cu Chi Tunnels
Experience life underground as the guerilla fighters did during the war. You’ll crawl through 50–100 meters of the tunnel system, gaining insight into how these tunnels functioned as living areas, storage units, weapon factories, field hospitals, and command centers. The tour also includes a look at the intricate trap-door systems and surrounding rice paper workshops and picturesque paddy fields along the way.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious meal at a local restaurant, savoring the regional cuisine.
Afternoon: Ho Chi Minh City Tour
After lunch, return to Ho Chi Minh City and visit iconic landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office, both prime examples of French colonial architecture.
Special Experience: Trishaw Ride
Hop on a traditional trishaw for an exciting ride through the bustling city streets, taking in the lively atmosphere of street markets, sidewalk cafés, and modern pubs and restaurants.
End of Tour: After your exploration of both the historic Cu Chi Tunnels and the dynamic life of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll be transferred back to Sai Gon Port.

Tour Includes

The English or Thai-speaking accompanying guide except during free time
All travel according to the program by private vehicle except during free time
Fees for entry to the sites to be visited
Lunch in program (if have)
File fees
Taxes
All logistical services required for the organization of the program

Tour Excudes

International airport flights and taxes from/to your country (see FAQ)
Visa fees (if have) (see FAQ)
Tips for guides and drivers (for the guide, to be provided for between 5 and 12 USD per day per traveller and half for drivers if you are happy with their services)
Drinks and other meals not mentioned in “the price includes”
Bottle of water (possibility of buying it locally)
Telephone, personal expenses
All the small tips of rowers, porters, baggage handlers, etc. These will be regulated by your guides (see FAQs)
Any other service not mentioned in the section “The price includes”.

You may be interested in Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions, Nha Trang Shore Excursions or Da Nang Shore Excursions, Ha Long Shore Excursions when you travel to Vietnam with your Vietnam Shore Excursions.

Why should choose our Ho Chi Minh city shore excursions?

Reliable Tour Operator: Highly recommended by many customers, Private Tour Guides.
Quality: Experienced, reliable local guides
Convenient: Port pick-up and drop-off with high quality private car rental services
Personalized: Fully tailor-made tour itineraries, at your own pace
Service: 24/7 Customer Support
Food we serve: All kinds of food are selected carefully and safely

How many ways to book Ho chi minh city shore excursions from lalatour

It is very simple to book Ho Chi Minh city shore excursions from Phu My Port via:

Step 1: please help us to fill tailor-made tour requirement form or email: [email protected]
Step 2: Contact from lalatour adviser
Step 3: Send quotation and confirmation
Step 4: start your trip

here is detail about Lalatour booking procedure

Terms & Conditions

We require a 50% deposit upon receipt of our PayPal invoice to secure your Ho Chi Minh city shore excursion. The remaining balance can be paid at the end of your tour in cash (USD or VND at the current exchange rate) or in advance online via PayPal, credit, or debit card. Your booking will be instantly confirmed upon payment.

Please note: A 3% fee will be added to the deposit or total payment if made via PayPal, credit, or debit card to cover bank service charges.

Deposit Cancellation Terms:

If customers cancel some or all portions of their booking, regardless of the reason, the following cancellation fees will apply:

40 days or more before arrival: Full deposit refund.
39 – 30 days before arrival: 10% of the full payment will be charged.
29 – 15 days before arrival: 30% of the full payment will be charged.
14 – 7 days before arrival: 50% of the full payment will be charged.
6 – 2 days before arrival: 75% of the full payment will be charged.
Less than 2 days before arrival: 100% of the full payment will be charged.

Travelers are good to know

Important notice when travel in Ho Chi Minh

Ho Chi Minh is generally considered a safe city for travelers. However, as with any major urban area, it’s wise to stay vigilant to avoid common issues like pickpocketing. Here are some tips to stay safe:

Safety Tips

Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Pay attention to your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and markets.

Keep Copies of Important Documents: Have photocopies of your passport, visa, and other important documents in case they get lost or stolen.

Secure Your Belongings: Keep your valuables like passports, money, and electronics secure. Use a money belt or a crossbody bag that you can easily keep an eye on.

Avoid Displaying Valuables: Don’t flaunt expensive items or large amounts of cash in public.

Use Reputable Services: Stick to well-known transportation services and tour operators. Be cautious when using street taxis or motorbike taxis; opt for reputable companies or apps.

Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Avoid poorly lit or deserted streets, especially at night.

Roaming and 4G 5G tourist vietnam sim card

Travelers should take precautions and arrange Tourist SIM card roaming at least one day before starting their Vietnam shore excursions. This will make it easier to stay in touch with your tour guide or the Lalatour tour manager via app or phone. Keep in mind that phone signal strength can sometimes be unreliable when using international roaming in Vietnam. For better connectivity, we recommend contacting us in advance to register for a 4G or 5G SIM card. We can send you a QR SIM card one day before your trip, which is easy to set up and provides better signal quality during your travels.

Food and Drink

Ho Chi Minh City, often regarded as the culinary capital of Vietnam, offers an incredible array of food and drink, blending traditional Vietnamese flavors with French colonial influences. The city’s vibrant street food scene and high-end dining options reflect its cultural diversity, catering to both locals and tourists eager to explore its rich gastronomy.

Popular Dishes

Pho
Pho is Vietnam’s most iconic dish, and in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find plenty of variations. Typically, this flavorful broth-based noodle soup is served with either beef (pho bo) or chicken (pho ga), along with fresh herbs, bean sprouts, lime, and chili. The broth is slow-cooked, and its rich, aromatic taste makes it a must-try meal.
Bánh Mì
A testament to Vietnam’s French colonial past, bánh mì is a crispy baguette filled with various ingredients such as grilled pork, pate, pickled vegetables, fresh cilantro, and chili sauce. It’s a perfect fusion of Vietnamese and French flavors and is widely available at street vendors.
Com Tam (Broken Rice)
Com tam is a popular street food dish, particularly for lunch. It’s made from fractured rice grains and often served with grilled pork (suon nuong), a fried egg, and a variety of accompaniments like pickles, cucumbers, and fish sauce. Topped with a bit of scallion oil, it’s a filling, affordable dish that locals love.
Hu Tieu
Hu tieu is a versatile noodle soup that offers both Chinese and Cambodian influences. It can be served dry or with broth and is typically topped with pork, shrimp, and a range of vegetables and herbs. Variations of the dish can be found throughout the city, each offering different regional takes.
Goi Cuon (Spring Rolls)
Goi cuon are fresh spring rolls made with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli, all wrapped in rice paper and served with a peanut-hoisin dipping sauce. These light, healthy rolls are a popular appetizer or snack, reflecting the city’s focus on fresh ingredients.
Bun Thit Nuong
This dish features grilled pork served over vermicelli noodles, mixed with fresh herbs, peanuts, and a tangy fish sauce. It’s a refreshing, light dish perfect for a hot day in the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City.

Drinks

Vietnamese Coffee (Cà Phê)
Ho Chi Minh City is famous for its Vietnamese coffee, a strong brew made from robusta beans. Served hot or cold, it is typically sweetened with condensed milk (ca phe sua da) or enjoyed black (ca phe den da). For a more unique experience, egg coffee is a must-try, combining whisked egg yolk with sugar, coffee, and milk for a rich and creamy treat.
Sugarcane Juice (Nước Mía)
A refreshing street drink made from freshly pressed sugarcane, nước mía is often mixed with a splash of lime juice for an extra zing. It’s the perfect way to cool down in the tropical heat of Ho Chi Minh City.
Coconut Water (Nước Dừa)
Fresh coconut water is readily available from street vendors. Served straight from the coconut, it’s a natural, hydrating drink that’s especially popular in the city’s hot climate.
Beer (Bia Saigon)
Bia Saigon is the city’s local beer, often enjoyed alongside grilled meats or seafood at bustling beer gardens. Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife includes a growing craft beer scene, with local brewers offering a range of interesting flavors and blends.
Sinh To (Fruit Smoothies)
The city’s tropical location means a wide variety of fruits are available year-round. Sinh to (smoothies) are made from fresh fruit like mango, passion fruit, and avocado, blended with condensed milk or yogurt, and can be found at almost every corner.

Street Food Culture

Street food is integral to Ho Chi Minh City’s culinary identity. Markets like Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market are packed with vendors selling fresh meals, snacks, and drinks. You’ll find locals grabbing quick meals from pushcart vendors, creating a bustling and energetic atmosphere. The street food is not just convenient but a reflection of the city’s diverse food traditions, offering a taste of authentic Vietnamese culture at affordable prices.

Ho Chi Minh City’s food scene is a delicious blend of old and new, where you can enjoy a humble bowl of pho at a roadside stall or indulge in fine dining at a chic restaurant. The city’s culinary landscape provides something for every palate, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Cultural and history

Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is Vietnam’s largest city and a vibrant economic and cultural hub. Its rich history reflects a tapestry of indigenous traditions, colonial influence, and modern growth. The city’s roots can be traced back to the 17th century, when it was originally a Khmer fishing village before being annexed by the Vietnamese. Known then as Prey Nokor, it became an important trading port due to its strategic location along the Saigon River.

In 1859, the French colonized the region, renaming it Saigon and turning it into the capital of French Cochinchina. French colonial rule left a lasting mark on the city, visible today in its architecture, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office, and tree-lined boulevards. During this time, Saigon grew into a major commercial center, blending Eastern and Western influences, and became known as the “Pearl of the Far East.”

After World War II and the collapse of French colonial rule, Saigon played a pivotal role in the Vietnam War, becoming the capital of South Vietnam. The city was a focal point of political and military activity until 1975, when the fall of Saigon marked the end of the war and the reunification of North and South Vietnam. The city was renamed Ho Chi Minh City in honor of the North’s revolutionary leader, though the name Saigon is still commonly used by locals, especially in reference to the city’s central district.

Culturally, Ho Chi Minh City is a fascinating mix of tradition and modernity. It is home to a variety of cultural landmarks, including temples, such as Thien Hau Pagoda, and bustling markets like Ben Thanh Market, which showcase the city’s vibrant daily life. Traditional Vietnamese customs, such as ancestor worship and Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations, are woven into the city’s fast-paced lifestyle.

The city’s culinary scene is world-renowned, offering a mix of Vietnamese street food and French-influenced cuisine, with dishes like pho, banh mi, and com tam (broken rice) delighting locals and tourists alike. Ho Chi Minh City is also a hub for contemporary arts, theater, and music, with a growing number of galleries, cafes, and live music venues contributing to its dynamic cultural landscape.

Today, Ho Chi Minh City is a symbol of Vietnam’s economic resurgence, with its towering skyscrapers, expanding commercial districts, and a young, entrepreneurial population. Despite its modernization, the city retains its historical charm, balancing traditional Vietnamese culture with its colonial past and rapid development. This blend of the old and the new gives Ho Chi Minh City a unique energy that captures the spirit of Vietnam’s evolution over the centuries.

Facilities & Location Phu My Port

Phu My Port is a key gateway for cruise ships docking in southern Vietnam, serving as a major access point for travelers looking to explore the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly Saigon) and its surrounding areas. Located approximately 80 kilometers southeast of Ho Chi Minh City, in Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, Phu My Port is a popular stop for international cruise liners.

Transportation

Transportation options from Phu My Port are somewhat restricted. So it is hard to travelers do not have booking plan in advanced. The most convenient options include booking private transport. The journey from Phu My Port takes around an hour and 25 minutes to Ho Chi Minh city.

Shopping

There aren’t many shopping opportunities directly at the cruise terminal, but once you reach Ho Chi Minh, the bustling “Ben Thanh Market” or “night walking Market” is a popular destination for locals.

Another famous for shopping center are Takashimaya center, Aeon Mall, Vincome plaza…

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is located in Central District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. This bustling, lively street is conveniently situated near many of the city’s most famous attractions and destinations.

The street is a hub of excitement and energy, offering a diverse range of bars, clubs, and entertainment options that cater to every taste and budget. Thanks to its diversity, Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. From sophisticated bars to bustling street markets, everyone can find something to enjoy on Nguyen Hue Street.

China town – 5 district where Chinese people have lived here for many generations, they have business and chinese restaurants

Ho Chi Minh city also features open-air markets and walkable shopping areas such “An Dong” – 5 district, “Ba Chieu market”, “Tan Binh market”, offering a relaxed shopping experience. It’s a great time to pick up souvenirs for your family during your Ho Chi Minh city Shore Excursions.

Currency & Best Way to Get Money

The official currency in Vietnam is the dong (VND) change is recommended for purchasing souvenirs. ATMs are available at Vietcombank branches in Ho Chi Minh. It’s advisable to exchange your money before beginning your Ho Chi Minh city Shore Excursions.

or go to exchange at Ben Thanh Market

Language

Vietnamese is the official language, and almost old and mid-age, car driver people are not good speak another languages. So Requried Tour guide in English, or others that is comfortable and making it easier for international visitors during their Ho Chi Minh Shore Excursions.

Or You should prepare to translator device or Google translate app that is good to communicate with local people

Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions From Phu My Port

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