Best of Saigon Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

A lively, intimate way to explore Saigon — that’s what this Best of Saigon Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port offers. For just under $98 per person, you’ll hop onto a vintage Vespa, guided by a knowledgeable local, and weave through the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City. The tour lasts roughly 8 to 12 hours, and it’s designed to give you a deeper, more personal look at this energetic city beyond the typical tourist spots.

What we love most is the flexibility of the private tour, which means no waiting around for the group to finish meals or visits. Also, the chance to see a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems — from the French colonial architecture to bustling Chinatown streets — makes this a well-rounded experience.

One thing to consider: the traffic in Saigon can be hectic. While your guide will expertly navigate the streets, it might be a bit overwhelming if you’re not used to busy urban traffic. This tour is best suited for travelers who are comfortable on a scooter or eager to experience a city’s pulse firsthand. It’s particularly appealing for those wanting an authentic, active adventure with family-friendly options for children aged 3 and up.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

If you enjoy lively city sights, street food, and culturally rich neighborhoods, this tour will suit you well. It’s especially good for travelers seeking a more personal, flexible experience and those willing to hop onto a Vespa. Perfect for history buffs, food lovers, or anyone interested in seeing Saigon’s contrasts — from colonial buildings to local markets — all in one day.

Key Points

• Private and flexible: No group waiting around, tailored to your pace.
• Authentic experience: Explore local neighborhoods, street food, and landmarks.
• Convenient logistics: Pickup from cruise terminal or hotel included.
• Family-friendly: Children aged 3+ are welcome on the Vespa.
• Cultural highlights: Tour includes visits to major sites like Notre-Dame Basilica and War Remnants Museum.
• Value for money: At $97.75, it offers a comprehensive, personalized day in Saigon.

In-Depth Review: What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

This 8 to 12-hour private tour combines convenience, adventure, and cultural insight. Starting with pickup directly from your cruise terminal or hotel, the experience is designed to maximize your time without the hassle of figuring out transport. Expect a comfortable private vehicle that takes you straight into the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, a city that’s both frantic and fascinating.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Phu My Port
Your guide will greet you with a friendly smile, holding a sign with your name. The initial pickup takes just five minutes, easing any first-day jitters. Many reviews mention how smooth this start is, meaning no stress from the get-go.

Stop 2 & 3: Central Post Office & Notre-Dame Cathedral
Walking into these French-colonial landmarks feels like stepping into a European postcard. The Saigon Central Post Office is a stunning example of architecture, and the Notre-Dame Basilica provides perfect photo opportunities. Both are free to enter, and your guide will likely share some history about their colonial past and significance.

Stop 4 & 5: War Remnants Museum & Independence Palace
These two stops are the tour’s emotional core. The War Remnants Museum offers a sobering look at Vietnam’s turbulent history, and the Reunification Hall (Independence Palace) is a grand, historic building symbolizing Vietnam’s resilience. Reviews indicate that these stops leave a lasting impression, and the museums are well worth the time.

Stop 6: People’s Committee Building
Often overshadowed, this building is an architecturally striking piece of Saigon’s colonial history. Its inclusion in the tour offers a quick but meaningful glimpse into the city’s administrative past.

Stop 7: Book Street & The Secret Weapons Cellar
Walking along Nguyen Hue Street reveals a lively, pedestrian-friendly boulevard with bookstores and cafes—an inviting spot for a quick coffee or souvenir. The Secret Weapons Cellar, tucked away in District 3, provides a fascinating look into Vietnam’s underground military history, and many reviewers find this stop surprisingly captivating.

Stop 8 & 9: Cholon (Chinatown) and Binh Tay Market
Here, you’ll encounter Vietnam’s vibrant Chinese community. The sprawling market is perfect for browsing local produce, fabrics, and street food stalls. As one reviewer noted, “Binh Tay Market offers everything from fresh seafood to lacquerware,” making it a lively, sensory-rich experience.

Stops 10 & 11: Ba Thien Hau Temple & Nguyen Hue Street
The Chinese-style Thien Hau Temple is dedicated to the Sea Goddess, giving insight into local religious practices. Then, a quick stroll down Nguyen Hue Boulevard offers views of modern Saigon, blending old and new in a lively outdoor setting.

Final stop: Emperor Jade Pagoda
This Taoist temple showcases intricate architecture and spiritual ambiance, providing a peaceful conclusion to your busy day of sightseeing.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer praised their guide, Bruno, saying, “He explained a bit about the history of the city to set the scene for the day. We saw all the major sights, and Bruno knew exactly where to take the best photos.” This personal touch and local insight elevate the experience beyond just ticking off landmarks.

Another review called the tour “memories to last a lifetime,” emphasizing the value of the private guide and the chance to see hidden spots like the secret weapons cellar.

Transportation & Timing

The Vespa experience is a highlight, allowing you to feel the city’s pulse firsthand. While traffic can be hectic, your guide’s expertise ensures safety and smooth navigation. The tour’s flexible length (8-12 hours) means you can tailor your experience—whether you prefer a shorter day or want to linger longer at certain spots.

Dining & Refreshments

Included in your package is lunch featuring Vietnamese cuisine and Vietnamese egg coffee, a local specialty. Many reviewers commend the food for its authenticity and flavor, adding an edible dimension to your cultural exploration. Bottled water keeps you hydrated as you hop between stops.

Price & Value Analysis

At just under $98, this private tour offers excellent value for money. It combines transportation, entry fees, a knowledgeable guide, and local cuisine—all tailored for your group. Compared to standalone entrance fees or self-guided tours, this package saves time and hassle, making it a worthwhile investment for a busy cruise day. The personalized approach means you won’t be herded through sites; instead, you can focus on what interests you most.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re comfortable on a Vespa and enjoy active sightseeing, this tour is ideal. It’s perfect for those who want to cover a broad range of sites efficiently while experiencing the city like a local. Families with children aged 3 and up will appreciate the flexibility and safety of the private vehicle and guided experience.

Travelers with a curiosity for history, architecture, and street food will find this tour satisfying. It’s also a practical choice for those who value convenience and personalized attention over larger group excursions.

The Sum Up

This Best of Saigon Shore Excursion is a well-rounded, engaging way to spend a day exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s highlights and hidden corners. The private Vespa ride offers an authentic, energetic perspective that’s hard to match while providing comfort and flexibility. From colonial architecture and historic museums to vibrant markets and spiritual temples, you’ll leave with a true sense of Saigon’s character.

It’s especially suited for travelers eager to see a lot without feeling rushed and who appreciate local insights and tasty food. The value for money, combined with the convenience of pick-up and a private guide, makes this experience a top choice for cruise visitors wanting an immersive, memorable day.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children aged 3 and up are welcome, making it family-friendly for those wanting to introduce younger travelers to Saigon with an active mode of transport.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, you’ll be picked up and dropped off in a private, comfortable vehicle, and the Vespa ride is part of the guided experience.

What landmarks are included?
Major sites like the Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, and other local neighborhoods and temples are part of the itinerary.

How long does the tour last?
It takes approximately 8 to 12 hours, depending on your pace and interests, giving ample time to explore or linger at key spots.

What is included in the price?
The price covers pickup/drop-off, a private guide, all entrance fees, lunch, Vietnamese egg coffee, and bottled water.

Are drinks and extra food included?
No, additional personal expenses are not included. However, the tour does feature a recommended Vietnamese egg coffee and lunch.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, your guide can tailor the stops based on your interests, within the provided schedule.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply eager to experience Saigon’s vibrant street life, this Vespa-led tour offers a fun, authentic, and memorable way to see the city.