Central Vietnam is a treasure trove for cruise passengers eager to explore vibrant cities, ancient temples, and stunning landscapes. The region’s diverse attractions—from the engineering marvel of the Golden Bridge to the UNESCO-listed Imperial City of Hue—offer a mix of culture, scenery, and fun. We particularly love tours that combine iconic sights like the Cable Car to Ba Na Hills with the chance to walk across the Golden Hands Bridge or explore historic towns like Hoi An. These experiences aren’t just sightseeing—they’re about creating memorable moments, whether by enjoying the panoramic views, tasting local cuisine, or wandering through centuries-old architecture.
If you’re visiting Central Vietnam, you’ll find a variety of excursions tailored to different interests and schedules. Whether you prefer a luxury private tour to Hue, a family-friendly adventure in Da Nang, or a quick yet comprehensive trip to Marble Mountain and the Golden Bridge, there’s something for all. Read on for an in-depth look at the ten best shore excursions, including practical details and what makes each unique.
Quick Overview
This list features a range of full-day and half-day tours that cater to different tastes. Some highlight modern marvels like the Golden Bridge, combining cable car rides and amusement parks, while others focus on historic sites like Hue’s Imperial City or the Tomb of Khai Dinh. There are private options, small-group adventures, and all-inclusive experiences. Whether you’re after culture, spectacular scenery, or family fun, these tours will help you make the most of your port day in Central Vietnam.
1. Shore Excursion: Chan May Port to Golden Bridge Ba Na Hills
Starting at number 1, this private tour takes you from Chan May Port to the famous Golden Bridge inside Sun World at Ba Na Hills. For around $236, you’ll spend 6 to 8 hours enjoying a flexible schedule designed to maximize your time. The highlight? Walking across the massive Hands supporting the Golden Bridge—a photo op you won’t forget. The trip includes a scenic cable car ride, which ascends to 1,487 meters and offers panoramic views of the mountains and forests below.
This tour includes three main stops: the Sun World Ba Na Hills complex, where you can explore the multi-culture theme park; the Golden Bridge, for incredible photos and leisurely walks; and the Fantasy Park, an amusement zone with almost 90 games to keep everyone entertained. The guide can tailor the itinerary to your pace, helping you avoid the crowds and take your time marveling at the views.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of efficiency and flexibility. Rated 5.0/5 by seven reviews, travelers love the seamless transfers and the chance to stand on the Golden Hands—a true modern wonder. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a hassle-free, full experience with all tickets included.
Bottom Line: If you want a smooth, comprehensive adventure that hits the main highlights of Ba Na Hills and the Golden Bridge, this private tour offers excellent value and a memorable experience.
2. Chan May Shore Excursion To Hoi An By Private Car- Pro Driver
At number 2, this private port transfer for up to three people offers a personalized day trip to Hoi An for $159. The journey lasts about 6 to 8 hours and includes not just Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage Old Town but also scenic stops along the way such as Hai Van Pass, Lang Co Beach, and Marble Mountain. The trip features a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and an attentive driver who can also serve as a guide if you request it (highly recommended).
What makes this tour special is the flexibility: you can customize your route, spend as long as you like in each spot, and enjoy a local lunch included in the price. Visitors often rave about the marble steps and caves of Marble Mountain—some even say it’s a good workout with steep climbs but well worth the effort. After lunch, you’ll wander the charming streets of Hoi An, exploring antique shops, temples, and tailors.
Rated 5.0/5 by four reviews, travelers love how easy and safe this trip is, especially for those pressed for time but wanting a rich experience of central Vietnam’s heritage and scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for small groups or couples seeking a private, flexible day trip that covers top sights and offers insider tips.
3. Chan May Port To Hue Private Tour- Hue Shore Excursion
Number 3 on our list is a 5-hour private journey from Chan May Port to Hue, costing $165 per person. This tour is ideal for travelers wanting a deep dive into Vietnam’s imperial past. It includes stops at the Khai Dinh Tomb, with its intricate mosaics and European-influenced architecture; Thien Mu Pagoda, a historic temple offering scenic views; and a sightseeing drive along the Perfume River.
What sets this tour apart is its blend of historical sites and easy-paced exploration. The guide will share stories about the Nguyen Dynasty, helping you imagine the royal courts and elaborate ceremonies. The Tomb of Khai Dinh is a highlight, with its ornate exterior and detailed interior—perfect for those interested in architecture and craftsmanship.
Rated 5.0/5 by four reviews, travelers appreciate the timing, the knowledgeable guide, and the personalized service which makes the experience feel intimate and relaxed. The tour is especially suited for history buffs or anyone eager to see Vietnam’s imperial landmarks.
Bottom Line: This private tour offers a well-rounded, insightful visit to Hue’s most famous sights, making it an excellent choice for culture lovers.
4. Private Hoi An and Da Nang Shore Excursion from Port
Taking the fourth spot, this all-in-one private tour from Da Nang and Hoi An costs $119 per person and lasts about 8 hours. It’s perfect if you want to cram in the highlights of Da Nang’s modern cityscape and Hoi An’s ancient charm in a single day. The tour kicks off with a visit to Marble Mountain with its caves and panoramic viewpoints, then moves on to the Cham Museum to learn about the region’s ancient civilization.
What makes this trip stand out is its personalized approach and flexible itinerary. The tour includes a stop at the Japanese Covered Bridge and free time for shopping or exploring Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets. The guide is friendly and informative, making complex history accessible and fun.
Rated 4.5/5 by 15 reviews, travelers love how this tour balances sightseeing and leisure, with many appreciating the private transport and included lunch. It’s ideal for families or small groups wanting a rundown without rushing.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a full day exploring Da Nang and Hoi An with a personal touch and lots of flexibility.
5. Private Hue Imperial City Shore Excursion from Cruise Ports
Number 5, priced at $135 per person for about 7 to 11 hours, offers a personalized tour of Hue’s UNESCO-listed Imperial City. This private experience includes visits to the Royal Tombs of Tu Duc, Khai Dinh, and Minh Mang, along with a walking tour of the Imperial Citadel.
What makes this tour stand out is its comprehensive focus on Hue’s royal sites and the personalized service that ensures you see what interests you most. The driver and guide are dedicated to making your day smooth, with a delicious Vietnamese lunch included. Visitors often comment on how the photos taken at the tombs are stunning, and the guide’s storytelling makes history come alive.
Rated 5.0/5 by one review, this tour suits those who want a deep, relaxed exploration of Hue’s imperial past without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for history lovers or first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: For a flexible, private day in Hue with a focus on royal architecture and history, this tour delivers a personalized experience.
$135.00 per person
6. Private Shore Excursion: Hue Imperial City – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Number 6 offers a full-day private tour for around 7 to 12 hours at $135 per person. It emphasizes ease of transfer, with private transport from your port, and visits to the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and the Royal Tombs. The tour is designed to give you a comprehensive introduction to Hue’s historical and cultural significance.
What makes this experience valuable is its focus on comfort and convenience. The guide can tailor the itinerary to your interests, ensuring you see the most iconic sites while enjoying delicious local meals. The boat cruise along the Perfume River is an optional highlight, providing a peaceful way to appreciate Hue’s scenery.
Rated 5.0/5 by one review, travelers enjoy the professional service and the opportunity to explore Hue with minimal stress. This tour is perfect for those who prioritize personalized service and a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice if you want a fully private, hassle-free exploration of Hue’s highlights.
$135.00 per person
7. Shore Excursion from CHAN MAY or Tien Sa port to GOLDEN BRIDGE, Marble Mountain
Number 7 features a full-day private trip combining the Golden Hands Bridge with Marble Mountain for $179.49 per person. This tour is perfect for travelers who want a curated experience with expert guides, including cable car tickets, lunch, and visits to caves and pagodas at Marble Mountain.
What’s unique? The Golden Hands Bridge is a true engineering marvel, supporting the Golden Bridge with enormous stone-like hands—an ideal photo opportunity. Afterward, you’ll visit Marble Mountain’s caves, pagodas, and viewpoints, giving a well-rounded experience of central Vietnam’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Rated 5.0/5 by one review, this tour appeals to those who value expert guidance and want a balanced itinerary with all transport and tickets included. It’s suitable for all ages, especially those eager to see iconic landmarks comfortably.
Bottom Line: For a hassle-free, comprehensive tour covering two of the region’s top sights, this option is hard to beat.
$179.49 per person
8. Chan May Shore Excursion: Private Danang City Tour & Bana Hills
Number 8 offers a private 7 to 10-hour tour from Chan May for $135 per person, including highlights like the Golden Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and Da Nang’s city sights. The tour begins with the Golden Hands Bridge, where you walk across the 150-meter structure supported by giant stone-like hands, right in the Baha Hills resort.
The tour also features the Dragon Bridge, with its impressive dragon sculpture spanning the Han River, and a visit to Da Nang’s city center with its modern architecture. The guide helps you navigate the traffic and scenery, making this a practical choice for first-timers.
Rated 5.0/5 by one review, travelers appreciate the well-paced schedule and local insights. Ideal for those wanting a mix of modern city culture and spectacular bridge views.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in both urban sights and iconic bridges with a private, guided experience.
$135.00 per person
9. Tien Sa Port / Chan May Port tour Bana Hills & Golden Hands Brige
Rounding out the list at number 9, this 7 to 8-hour private tour combines Bana Hills, the Golden Hands Bridge, and French Village for $149 per person. It includes a private pickup, cable car rides, and visits to the caves and pagodas within Marble Mountain.
What makes this tour especially appealing is its combination of cultural and scenic highlights. You’ll experience the famous bridge, walk through the European-inspired French Village, and explore caves and temples at Marble Mountain. The guide provides local insights, helping you appreciate the history and architecture of each site.
Rated 5.0/5 by one review, this tour suits travelers who want an organized yet flexible day covering major attractions, especially if visiting from Tien Sa or Chan May ports.
Bottom Line: If your goal is a full-view experience of the region’s most photogenic sites, this tour offers great value.
$149.00 per person
How to Choose Your Central Vietnam Shore Excursion
When selecting a tour, think about your budget, time constraints, and interests. For instance, if you love modern architecture and spectacular views, tours to Ba Na Hills (like Tour #1) or the Golden Hands Bridge are excellent choices. If you want a deep dive into history, the Hue tours (#3) or #5) provide detailed insights into Vietnam’s imperial past.
For those pressed for time but craving a comprehensive experience, the private Hoi An and Da Nang tour (#4) offers a great mix of city and coastal sights. Budget travelers might prefer the more affordable private tours with fewer inclusions but still plenty of local flavor.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred times and avoid last-minute disappointments. Consider combining cultural visits with scenic rides for a balanced day.
Final Thoughts
Central Vietnam offers a wide array of shore excursions tailored to different interests—from spectacular bridges and historic sites to family-friendly parks and scenic drives. For a luxury experience, the private tours to Hue or Ba Na Hills stand out. For a more relaxed, all-in-one day, options covering Da Nang and Hoi An are perfect.
Whether you’re captivated by the engineering marvels, eager to step back into royal history, or simply want to capture stunning photos, these tours provide excellent choices. Remember to book early and consider your personal interests—these are the moments you’ll remember long after your cruise docks in Central Vietnam.