PHU MY PORT: SAIGON SHORE EXCURSION-Old and New Parts of Saigon

Experience the best of Ho Chi Minh City in a single day with this private shore excursion designed for cruise travelers. For $135 per person, you’ll spend about 7 to 8 hours uncovering the city’s historical landmarks, vibrant markets, and local life, all with the comfort of private transportation and a dedicated guide. Your journey includes a flavorful Vietnamese lunch, visits to key sites like the Independence Palace and Notre Dame Cathedral, and stops at lesser-known gems like Binh Quoi Village.

What we really love about this tour is how flexible and personalized it feels—your guide takes your interests into account, tailoring the experience. Plus, the inclusion of local insights and historical context brings the city alive, making it much more than just a sightseeing checklist. The convenience of cruise port pickup and drop-off means you won’t be stressing about logistics or navigating busy streets.

The only thing to consider is that the tour requires moderate physical activity and a bit of walking, which might be tiring for some. Also, it’s a full day, so if your cruise schedule is tight or you prefer a relaxed pace, make sure the timing fits your plans.

This experience suits travelers who want a comprehensive, authentic look at Saigon without the hassle of planning every stop. It’s ideal for those who appreciate local culture and history, enjoy good food, and value comfort and flexibility.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: Your own guide and transportation mean a personalized experience.
• Cultural and historical insights: Visits to landmarks like the Independence Palace and War Remnants Museum.
• Local flavor: Sampling Vietnamese cuisine and exploring bustling markets.
• Comfort and convenience: Cruise port pickup and drop-off included.
• Well-reviewed guides: Many visitors praise guides for their knowledge and friendly approach.
• Moderate activity level: Suitable for travelers with decent mobility.

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City with Confidence

This private shore excursion offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and local life, all packed into a manageable day. It’s especially appealing if you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City for the first time and want a curated experience that hits all the highlights without feeling rushed. The $135 fee covers not only admissions but also the cost of a delicious Vietnamese lunch and private transportation, making it excellent value considering the inclusiveness and comfort.

The tour is designed to be seven to eight hours long, providing enough time to enjoy each site without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the pickup and drop-off at the cruise port eliminate any stress about logistics, letting you relax and soak in the sights from the moment you arrive. This is especially helpful if you’re arriving with limited time or unfamiliar with the city.

In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Binh Quoi Village – A Peek at Local Rural Life

Your journey begins with a visit to Binh Quoi Village, about 40 minutes from the city center. This spot offers a rare glimpse into Vietnamese countryside traditions within Saigon’s urban fabric. It’s a favorite among locals for weekend picnics and fishing, but it remains a hidden gem for travelers. Here, you’ll see how rice is grown and fishermen catch their dinner, providing an authentic snapshot of rural Vietnam.

Visitors often mention this as a highlight because it’s a stark contrast to the city’s hustle. One reviewer loved the way it exposed “an unseen part of Saigon,” noting that it’s a peaceful, beautiful spot to start your day.

Stop 2: Central Ho Chi Minh City – The Heart of the Action

Next, your guide takes you into the city’s core, where you’ll explore a mix of historic sites and lively markets. Expect to see the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, an enduring symbol of French colonial architecture, and the Reunification Palace, a building frozen in 1975, with its tanks parked outside. The Central Post Office is another highlight, with its ornate, European-style design.

You’ll also visit the Nguyen Hue Street, a bustling promenade where locals gather, and the Ben Thanh Market, perfect for browsing Vietnamese crafts and trying street food. The market can be overwhelming but also very rewarding if you enjoy bargaining and sampling local snacks. Many reviewers find this lively market a true taste of Saigon’s buzzing street life.

Stop 3: Emperor Jade Pagoda – Spiritual Serenity in District 1

A short drive takes you to Emperor Jade Pagoda, one of the oldest temples in Saigon. Its intricate carvings, incense-filled atmosphere, and spiritual aura make it a peaceful stop. Visitors often comment on the authenticity and historical significance of this temple, appreciating its quiet contrast to the busy city streets.

Stop 4: The Independence Palace – Time Capsule of Saigon

The Independence Palace is arguably the tour’s most iconic site. It’s a place where history is palpable—original tanks parked on the grounds and rooms preserved to reflect 1970s decor. The lush gardens and secret rooms offer a peek into the city’s past, and guides often share stories that bring the palace to life.

Many guests describe this as a highlight, noting it’s like stepping back in time. One reviewer called it “a real time capsule,” emphasizing the antique furniture and command bunker that tell stories of Vietnam’s tumultuous history.

Stop 5: Ben Thanh Market – A Shopper’s Paradise

Guests have the chance to browse Ben Thanh Market, a bustling hub of commerce and culture. Whether you’re after souvenirs, artwork, or local snacks, this market offers a sensory overload in the best way. The inside stalls serve hawker-style Vietnamese cuisine, giving you a quick flavor of local flavors.

Some travelers find it difficult to navigate, especially during the hottest hours, but they agree it’s worth the effort for the authentic experience and vibrant atmosphere.

Stop 6: People’s Committee Building – Architectural Icon

Your tour concludes with a quick visit to the People’s Committee Building, a stunning example of French colonial architecture. Originally constructed as a hotel in 1898, it now functions as the city hall. It’s a perfect photo stop, capturing Saigon’s colonial heritage.

Authentic Experiences and Travel Insights

Throughout the day, your guide provides engaging commentary, sharing insights into Vietnamese history, culture, and daily life. Reviewers repeatedly praise guides like Ms. Linh, Penny, and Mia for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to tailor the tour to interests. One guest noted how guide Khang made the day “a real joy,” especially when discussing life in Vietnam and its religions.

Transportation is private and comfortable, allowing for quick transitions between sites and avoiding the chaos of public transit. This means you can spend more time soaking in each location rather than stressing over logistics.

Food and Refreshments

The included Vietnamese lunch is another high point for many travelers. They often highlight it as a delicious and authentic meal that complements the culture. Bottled water is provided throughout, keeping guests refreshed during the warm parts of the day.

Flexibility and Customization

One of the best aspects is the flexible itinerary. If there’s a particular site you’re especially keen on, guides are happy to adjust the schedule. This personal touch makes the experience worthwhile, especially compared to pre-packaged group tours.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $135, the tour covers admission fees, lunch, private transportation, and expert guiding. Considering the depth of sites visited and the comfort offered, it’s excellent value. Many reviews emphasize the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, which greatly enhances the experience. Visitors also appreciate how the tour manages to balance sightseeing with meaningful storytelling—not just ticking off boxes but really understanding what makes Saigon special.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This private excursion is perfect for cruise passengers eager to see both the historic and modern sides of Saigon in one day. It’s great for those who prefer a personalized, in-depth experience over large group tours. If you’re traveling with family or friends and want a flexible schedule, this tour can be tailored to your interests.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts about 7 to 8 hours, providing ample time to visit all the key sites comfortably.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation from and back to the cruise port is included, making logistics hassle-free.

What is the tour price?
It costs $135 per person, which includes all entrance fees, lunch, and bottled water.

Can the tour be customized?
Absolutely. Guides are happy to modify the itinerary based on your interests and time constraints.

What sites are included?
Highlights include Binh Quoi Village, Ho Chi Minh City center, Emperor Jade Pagoda, Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, and the People’s Committee Building.

Is this suitable for all fitness levels?
The tour involves some walking and moderate activity, so it’s best for those in good health and with moderate mobility.

Final Thoughts

This private Ho Chi Minh City tour offers a well-rounded and authentic introduction to Vietnam’s most vibrant city. With a knowledgeable guide, convenient logistics, and a mix of history, culture, and local life, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want to maximize their time and enjoy a tailored experience. Whether you’re fascinated by historic landmarks or eager to sample authentic Vietnamese cuisine, this tour covers all the bases.

Most guests leave feeling they’ve gained a deeper understanding of Saigon, thanks to engaging guides and thoughtfully curated stops. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate personalized service and want to avoid the pitfalls of large group tours—making your day in Saigon both memorable and meaningful.

If you’re looking for an efficient, insightful, and enjoyable way to explore Ho Chi Minh City on a cruise stop, this private tour fits the bill perfectly.