Discovering the My Son Holly Land & Cruise Luxury Group Morning Tour

If you’re planning to visit central Vietnam, this tour offers a well-rounded glimpse of My Son Sanctuary—a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its Cham architecture and history—paired with a scenic boat ride along the Thu Bon River. For just $26 per person, you’ll spend about six hours immersed in culture, history, and beautiful river views, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances cultural exploration with moments of relaxation—like the peaceful boat cruise—and how it includes a local Vietnamese lunch that adds authenticity. The guide’s storytelling makes the history come alive, and the boat trip offers a refreshing perspective of Hoi An from the water.

One consideration is the entrance fee of 150,000 VND and the electric car transfer fee, which aren’t included, so travelers should budget for these. Also, the tour doesn’t cover areas outside Hoi An’s center or Da Nang, so if you’re staying far from the city, extra transport costs might apply.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history and culture, are comfortable with moderate walking, and love scenic boat rides. It’s ideal for those wanting an affordable, well-organized day trip that combines cultural discovery with relaxing moments.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Cultural highlights: Visit My Son Sanctuary and learn about the Champa Kingdom with a local guide.
Performance: Enjoy a traditional Apsara dance in a mystical setting.
Scenic cruise: Relax on a boat trip on Thu Bon River with lovely views of Hoi An.
Authentic meal: Savor Vietnamese dishes, specifically My Quang, served during lunch.
Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off within Hoi An or Da Nang.
Additional costs: Entrance fees and electric car transfer are extra; budget accordingly.

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Starting the Day: Pickup and Journey to My Son

The day begins early, with pickups between 7:30 and 8:00 am from your hotel—an advantage if you’re staying within Hoi An’s old town or Da Nang. Your guide, who speaks fluent English, will transfer you in a comfortable vehicle, covering about 100 kilometers round trip. The drive offers a chance to settle in, perhaps chat with fellow travelers, and get a preview of the scenic countryside.

We liked how the pickup process is straightforward, and that the tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, saving you the hassle of finding transport. Just keep in mind that if you’re staying outside certain areas—like Hoi An Old Town prohibited zones or in some resorts—you might need to arrange your own transfer or pay extra.

Exploring My Son Sanctuary: History and Traditional Performances

Arriving around 9:30 am, you’ll spend about two hours exploring My Son—a site of ancient Cham temples and ruins. The guide, say Linh, brought the site alive with stories of the Champa Kingdom and explained the significance of the architecture and sculptures. We loved the way she pointed out details like the intricate carvings and explained their cultural symbolism.

During the visit, you’ll experience a captivating Apsara dance performance, held in a mystical space that enhances the otherworldly feel of the site. The dance, performed in traditional costumes, offers a glimpse into Cham artistic traditions, making the visit both educational and entertaining.

The walk through the landscape is leisurely, allowing you to absorb the history and take plenty of photos. Expect some uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Lunch with a Local Touch

After touring, you’ll return to a local house for lunch, which is a real highlight. The Vietnamese dishes, especially the My Quang noodle dish, are flavorful and authentically prepared. The setting—surrounded by greenery and fresh air—adds to the experience. We appreciated the opportunity to sit down, relax, and enjoy cold herbal tea alongside the meal, giving a break from the morning’s activity.

This part of the tour is especially valuable for those interested in local culinary traditions, as it offers a taste of genuine Vietnamese home cooking rather than touristy restaurants.

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Scenic Boat Ride on Thu Bon River

Post-lunch, it’s time for a gentle boat trip on the Thu Bon River. The boat, with a cooling breeze and scenic views, offers a peaceful way to see the river and the outskirts of Hoi An. As we glided along, the view of the town from the water was truly lovely, especially with the traditional Japanese Covered Bridge and riverside houses in sight.

The boat ride lasts about 30 minutes, giving you a chance to unwind and enjoy the fresh air. Some reviews mention that this part of the tour adds a special touch, with many noting how the views and tranquility made it a memorable moment.

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Arrival in Hoi An and Tour The Sum Up

Arriving in Hoi An around 1:00 pm, the tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel. From there, you’re free to explore the charming town at your leisure, perhaps visiting the ancient streets, markets, or simply relaxing in a riverside café.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This experience offers a practical combination of cultural insight, scenic beauty, and local cuisine—all at an accessible price point. The inclusion of hotel transfers, a guide, and a boat cruise makes it a better value than many standalone excursions. It’s especially suited for history buffs, lovers of Vietnamese food, and those seeking a relaxed yet enriching day with comfortable logistics.

The only possible drawback is the extra costs for entrance tickets and electric car transfers, so plan accordingly. However, these are minor compared to the overall value, and the guided explanations help make the trip more meaningful.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic experience that combines history, nature, and local flavor, this tour hits the mark.

This tour is perfect for travelers who want a cost-effective, scenic, and educational day in central Vietnam. It’s ideal if you’re interested in Champa architecture, Vietnamese cuisine, and river views, but don’t want the hassle of arranging separate transport or tickets. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate authentic cultural performances and a leisurely pace.

Families, small groups, or solo travelers will find the small-group vibe welcoming and intimate. Keep in mind that the tour isn’t designed for those with mobility issues or large luggage, but for most other travelers, it offers a genuine taste of Hoi An’s historical and scenic charm.

FAQ

What is the duration of this tour?
It’s approximately six hours long, starting around 7:30-8:00 am and ending at 1:00 pm with hotel drop-off.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $26 per person, which includes hotel pickup and drop-off, guide, lunch, and the boat ride.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the 150,000 VND entrance fee for the site and electric car transfer are not included. Budget for these separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, generally suitable for kids, as long as they’re comfortable with walking and sitting for parts of the day. Keep in mind the terrain at My Son.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun hat, sunscreen, camera, and light clothes are recommended.

Is there a dress code?
Casual, modest attire is fine. Remember, it’s a cultural site, so respectful clothing is appreciated.

Can I book this tour privately?
Yes, private groups are available, providing a more personalized experience.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
The provided lunch is traditional Vietnamese, so special requests should be discussed beforehand, but generally, the dishes are straightforward.

Are there options for extra transfers?
Yes, if you stay outside the designated pickup areas, extra fees apply for private transfers in a 4-seat car, 7-seat van, or 16-seat van.

Is this tour recommended for seniors or those with mobility issues?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchairs due to walking and uneven terrain at My Son.

This well-rounded day trip offers a satisfying blend of history, scenery, and local flavors. For travelers eager for a genuine glimpse into Vietnam’s past and present, it’s a solid choice that combines value with authentic experiences.