Experience the Best of Vung Tau with a Private Full-Day Tour from Phu My Port

If you’re visiting Vietnam and have a few hours to spare while docked at Phu My Port, a private full-day Vung Tau tour offers a fantastic way to explore this charming seaside city. For around $135 per person, you’ll spend about 6 to 8 hours visiting some of Vung Tau’s most iconic sites—think breathtaking views, historic architecture, and tranquil temples. The tour includes comfortable air-conditioned transport, a knowledgeable guide, and all entrance fees, making it a stress-free adventure.
What we love about this experience is how flexible and personalized it feels—your own driver and guide tailor the day to your interests, and you get to see multiple highlights without the hassle of navigating yourself. We also appreciate the combination of natural beauty and cultural sights, from relaxing on the beach to admiring spiritual temples.
A possible consideration might be the busy schedules at some sites, especially the Jesus Christ Statue, which can get crowded. It’s worth planning your visit early in the day to beat the crowds. This tour is ideal for travelers who want a balanced mix of relaxation, scenic vistas, and cultural insights—all in a manageable, well-organized package. It suits those curious about Vietnam’s coastal charm but who prefer a guided, comfortable experience over wandering alone.
Key Points

- Comfortable private transportation ensures a smooth, personalized day without the hassle of group tours.
- Highlights include Vung Tau beach, White Palace, Jesus Christ Statue, and sacred temples.
- Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with local insights and flexible recommendations.
- All entrance fees are included, so planning your budget is simple.
- A mix of scenic views and cultural sites helps you experience both the natural beauty and spiritual heritage of Vung Tau.
- Ideal for cruise passengers wanting to make the most of their port visit in a manageable, well-organized way.
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Exploring Vung Tau: A Detailed Look at the Tour Itinerary

Starting Point: Bai Bin Vung Tau Beach
The tour kicks off with a pickup at Phu My Port, then heads straight to Bai Bin Vung Tau, a popular stretch of sandy shoreline where you can dip your toes in the water or just enjoy the sea breeze. We loved the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to unwind after a busy morning of travel. The beach stop is just about an hour, but it’s enough time to snap some photos or grab a quick swim if you’re feeling spontaneous.
White Palace (Bach Dinh)
Next, you’ll visit Bach Dinh, known as the White Palace, perched atop Big Mountain at 50 meters above sea level. Its architectural style and history echo France’s colonial influence, and standing there, you get a sense of grandeur and history. The 45-minute visit allows you to walk through the ornate rooms and take in sweeping views of the coast. The admission fee is included, so you can explore without extra cost, and you’ll find plenty of photo opportunities here.
The Iconic Jesus Christ Statue
Vung Tau’s most famous landmark is the 32-meter-high Jesus Christ Statue perched atop Nui Nho (Small Mountain). From afar, it’s hard to miss, but climbing up offers a real reward: panoramic vistas of the sea and city. Tour guides often recommend going to the top of the statue’s observatory, which provides a breathtaking perspective of the coastline and cityscape. Expect about an hour there, including the walk and photo time. The admission fee is covered, and as the reviews praise, the guide’s local knowledge makes the climb more insightful and enjoyable.
Thich Ca Phat Dai (Shakyamuni Buddha)
A highlight for many spiritual travelers is Thich Ca Phat Dai, a serene Buddhist temple built between 1961 and 1963. Set on a five-hectare plot, it combines Zen Buddhist architecture with peaceful gardens. Here, you can reflect among statues, pagodas, and lush greenery. Our guide explained that the temple’s peaceful setting and meaningful construction make it a must-see. The 45-minute visit includes an exploration of the temple and monastery at the foot of the hill.
The Whale Temple and Whale Skeleton
The Whale Temple and Whale Tomb are fascinating and less crowded stops. The tomb houses a huge whale skeleton collected over a century ago by local fishermen, showcasing Vietnam’s maritime heritage. It’s a quirky, memorable site that adds a layer of authenticity to your trip. The 1-hour stop allows ample time to explore and take photos of this unusual relic.
What It’s Like to Travel on This Tour
Transportation is exclusively private and air-conditioned, which means you travel comfortably and on your schedule. Your guide, often praised for being knowledgeable and flexible, provides not just historical context but also friendly suggestions on what to see and do. The lunch at a local restaurant is included, giving you a taste of Vietnamese cuisine—something we found to be both convenient and delicious.
The group size is just your party, giving you plenty of room to ask questions and customize the stops if desired. The timing is well-structured: you’ll get enough time to enjoy each site without feeling rushed, yet the itinerary is tight enough to see all the main sights.
Authentic Experiences and Value
From reviews, it’s clear that many travelers value the guides’ local insights and the stunning vistas they get to enjoy. The admission fees are included, which adds to the overall value and transparency of the price. For just over a hundred dollars, you’re getting a comprehensive, hassle-free way to see Vung Tau’s highlights—especially appealing for cruise passengers with limited time.
Some Considerations
While the tour is highly praised, keep in mind that popular sites like the Jesus statue can get crowded, especially later in the day. If you’re an early riser, you’ll beat the crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience. Also, since it’s a private tour, it’s more costly than group alternatives, but many find the convenience and personalization worth the extra expense.
Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour suits travelers who want a comfortable, guided experience that covers both natural beauty and cultural sites. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want to see Vung Tau’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning transportation or navigating alone. It’s also great for those who value local insights—your guide’s recommendations make the experience richer, especially at sites like the Whale Temple or White Palace.
If you’re traveling with family, friends, or as part of a cruise, this private option offers flexibility and a relaxed pace. It also appeals to those seeking authentic views and spiritual sites along with some beach time, making it a well-rounded day trip.
The Sum Up

In summary, the Private Full-Day Vung Tau City Tour offers a thoughtfully curated taste of one of Vietnam’s most scenic and culturally rich coastal cities. The combination of stunning vistas, historic architecture, and spiritual sites makes it a well-rounded experience. The private transport and guides ensure comfort and tailored insights, which many travelers appreciate, especially when navigating a new city.
The value of this tour lies in its all-inclusive pricing, flexibility, and the chance to see Vung Tau’s highlights without feeling rushed. The stops are well-chosen, and the guide’s local knowledge adds depth to your visit, making it more meaningful rather than just ticking off sights.
This tour is ideal for cruise travelers, families, or anyone wanting an easy, informative day that balances relaxation and exploration. If you enjoy scenic spots, cultural landmarks, and the chance to taste local cuisine, you’ll find this tour hits the mark. Just arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare for some beautiful views and interesting stories.
FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour typically lasts around 6 to 8 hours, including all stops, travel time, and lunch.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it is a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for a personalized and flexible day.
What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, lunch at a local restaurant, and all entrance fees listed are included.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is pickup offered from Phu My Port?
Yes, the tour includes pickup service directly from your cruise port, making logistics simple.
Are there any hidden costs?
No, all listed entrance fees are included. Personal expenses like shopping or beverages are not included.
Is this suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but if you have mobility issues, check with the tour provider for accessibility details.
How much should I expect to pay?
The price is $135 per person, which covers most of the key sites and the convenience of a private guide.
Will I have enough time at each site?
Yes, the itinerary is designed to give ample time at each stop without feeling rushed, based on reviews.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and good walking shoes are recommended, especially for the outdoor sites.
If you’re after an engaging, well-organized way to see Vung Tau’s highlights, this private tour really delivers. It combines scenic beauty, cultural insights, and authentic experiences—all at a pace suitable for most travelers.
