My Son is one of Vietnam’s most captivating archaeological sites, famous for its ancient Cham temples and lush jungle surroundings. Unlike many tourist spots, My Son offers a deeply tangible connection to an exotic civilization that flourished from the 2nd to the 19th century. What’s particularly appealing about the tours here is their variety — you can choose a quick private visit, an immersive craft experience, or a comprehensive day trip that combines nearby sights. Our favorites include a thoughtfully guided private tour for history lovers and a vibrant wood-carving class that turns sightseeing into a hands-on activity. If you’re curious about the Cham civilization, these tours bring history to life in different ways.
Quick Overview
Below, you’ll find three standout tours in My Son, each with a unique approach. The My Son Sanctuary Private Tour – Early Morning or Half Day offers a detailed exploration with a knowledgeable guide, perfect for those wanting a deep dive into the temples’ history. The Hoi An Experience 3 Hours Wood Carving Class is ideal for travelers who want to learn a traditional craft while enjoying local artistry. Finally, the Private Shore Excursion from Chan May port to My Son Holyland & Marble Mountains is a full-day adventure that combines My Son with a visit to the Marble Mountains, suitable for those with limited time and a taste for multiple sights.
1. My Son Sanctuary Private Tour – Early Morning or Half Day Tour
For around $50 per person, the My Son Sanctuary Private Tour – Early Morning or Half Day offers a well-rounded experience of one of Vietnam’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This 5-hour tour is perfect if you want an intimate, personalized look at the ancient Cham ruins. The guide is your key to understanding the significance of each structure — learning about the ingenious construction techniques, the spiritual rituals, and the cultural history. This tour typically begins early in the morning, allowing you to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures, or you can opt for a half-day option that suits a more flexible schedule.
What makes this tour stand out is the depth of information provided, helping you visualize how the temples served both religious and societal purposes. The guide’s storytelling makes the ruins come alive, whether explaining the symbolic carvings or the sacred purpose of the site. With admission included, you’ll spend about 3 hours wandering the sprawling site, soaking in the atmosphere while learning fascinating details. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it ideal for history buffs or travelers seeking a more meaningful visit.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a flexible, in-depth tour led by an expert, this private experience is tough to beat for its personalized insights and focused time at My Son.
2. Hoi An Experience 3 Hours Wood Carving Class with Local Artist
For $47 per person, the Hoi An Experience 3 Hours Wood Carving Class offers a creative twist in your My Son trip. This hands-on class puts you right in the studio with local artists, who have a YouTube following of over a million subscribers. Here, you get to learn traditional Vietnamese wood carving techniques in a relaxed setting—discover how to carve your own personalized frame or small artwork, combining both traditional and modern styles. The class is held in a dedicated Wood Carving Garden, where you can admire various pieces, including anime and Marvel characters, crafted live during the session.
What makes this experience special is the opportunity to create something tangible while learning about Vietnamese artistry. The guides are talented and enthusiastic, helping beginners or those with some experience turn raw wood into a finished piece. It’s a fun way to connect with local culture, especially for art lovers or families with kids. Guests often comment on the lively, interactive atmosphere, which turns sightseeing into a memorable activity rather than just a passive tour.
Bottom Line: This class suits travelers who want to take home a unique souvenir and engage with Vietnamese craft firsthand. It’s a lively, creative break from temple touring.
3. Private Shore Excursion from Chan May port to My Son Holyland & Marble Mountains
For approximately $180, this Private Shore Excursion from Chan May port to My Son Holyland & Marble Mountains offers a comprehensive, full-day experience suited for cruise travelers with limited time. The tour begins with a roughly 90-minute drive to My Son, where you’ll explore the remains of the Champa temples with your licensed guide. This guided visit is especially valuable for understanding the complex history of the site, from the 4th to 13th centuries, with detailed stories about the architecture and religious significance. Admission is included, and you’ll have about 1.5 hours to wander and take photos.
Afterward, the tour continues to the Marble Mountains, five limestone peaks representing the five elements. Here, you’ll explore natural caves, visit a Buddhist pagoda, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The itinerary provides a great balance, combining cultural history with natural scenery, all within a manageable time frame. The reviews highlight the professionalism of the guide and the flexibility of the private setup, making it a stress-free way to see multiple sights in one day.
Bottom Line: If your cruise schedule is tight but you want a rich experience with expert guiding, this full-day tour covers two major attractions, with the convenience of private transportation and a flexible timeline.
$179.81 per person
How to Choose
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If deep historical knowledge and a personalized experience appeal to you, the My Son Sanctuary Private Tour fits perfectly. For those interested in hands-on activities and local art, the Wood Carving Class offers a creative break. If you’re on a cruise or short on time but want a full overview of My Son plus nearby sights, the Full-Day Shore Excursion is an excellent choice.
Consider your budget and schedule as well. The private tour provides depth without a high price tag, while the full-day trip offers convenience with multiple sites. The carving class is best suited for those who want a memorable craft experience rather than just sightseeing.
Final Thoughts
My Son offers a range of tour options that suit different interests and schedules. For history enthusiasts seeking a detailed, private exploration, the private tour is unbeatable. Art lovers and families will enjoy transforming a visit into a creative adventure with the wood-carving class. Meanwhile, travelers on cruise excursions will appreciate the full-day private trip that combines My Son with the Marble Mountains for a well-rounded day.
No matter which tour you choose, early booking is recommended—these experiences tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. By selecting the right option, you’ll gain a richer understanding of Vietnam’s Cham civilization, enjoy a meaningful craft activity, or efficiently explore multiple attractions in one go. Whichever path you pick, My Son’s temples and stories are sure to leave a lasting impression.