Getting around Ho Chi Minh City from your cruise ship is best done through private shore excursions, which pack the most sights into your limited port time. Local operators run well-organized tours with reliable English-speaking guides, comfortable transportation, and built-in flexibility for ship schedules.
I’m especially fond of the cultural combo tours that mix key historical stops like the War Remnants Museum with vibrant local experiences in Chinatown and the markets. The food-focused motorbike tours, while not for everyone, offer an authentic slice of Vietnamese street life that you just can’t get any other way.
For cruise passengers short on time but eager to experience the city’s highlights, these tours deliver good value starting at $115 per person. Let’s explore the best shore excursion options that consistently earn top marks from fellow travelers.
Key Points
- Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions, including the War Remnants Museum, Chinatown, and local markets, through customizable private shore excursions.
- Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine and culture through food-focused tours and unique activities like cyclo rides and coffee-making demonstrations.
- Venture to the Mekong Delta for a day trip to discover floating markets and cultural heritage sites.
- Enjoy the convenience of private transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and flexible scheduling aligned with cruise ship timings.
- Benefit from high traveler satisfaction, with excursions consistently receiving positive reviews and a 99% recommendation rate.
Best of Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion From Cruise Port
The private Ho Chi Minh City shore excursion from the cruise port offers travelers an immersive and personalized experience.
With 126 reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation, this tour highlights the city’s must-see attractions, including the War Remnants Museum, Chinatown, and the Reunification Palace.
Travelers can expect a customizable itinerary, an authentic Vietnamese lunch, and knowledgeable, friendly guides like Anna, Tap, and Kain.
The tour includes private transportation, port pickup and drop-off, and bottled water.
Flexibility is key, with the ability to depart at any time based on the ship’s schedule and free cancellation up to 24 hours prior.
At $115 per person, this shore excursion provides excellent value and an unforgettable glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City.
Read our full review: Best of Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion From Cruise Port Review
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Ho Chi Minh: Shore Excursion City Tour From Nha Rong Port
Travelers seeking an immersive shore excursion in Ho Chi Minh City will find the “Ho Chi Minh: Shore Excursion City Tour from Nha Rong Port” an excellent option.
This fully customizable, 8-hour private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s highlights. Guests can expect a cyclo ride through local markets, visits to iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and Independence Palace, and an understanding of the Vietnam War’s impact at the War Remnants Museum.
The tour also includes a Vietnamese cuisine experience, a coffee-making demonstration, and an optional visit to a rooftop bar.
With free cancellation, air-conditioned transportation, and wheelchair accessibility, this shore excursion provides a well-rounded and accessible introduction to Ho Chi Minh City.
Read our full review: Ho Chi Minh: Shore Excursion City Tour From Nha Rong Port Review
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Private Shore Excursion From Phu My Port: Food & Sights by Motorbike
For travelers seeking a thrilling and immersive experience in Ho Chi Minh City, the “Private Shore Excursion From Phu My Port: Food & Sights by Motorbike” is a must-try.
This highly-rated tour offers a unique way to explore the city’s vibrant food scene and iconic landmarks. Guests will be picked up at Phu My Port, transferred to motorbikes, and taken on a journey to sample 4-5 authentic local dishes.
Along the way, they’ll enjoy private vehicle transport, beverages, and the expertise of an English-speaking guide.
With a 100% recommendation rate and 5-star reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for those wanting to make the most of their time in Ho Chi Minh City.
Read our full review: Private Shore Excursion From Phu My Port: Food & Sights by Motorbike Review
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Day Trip to Mekong Delta From Ho Chi Minh Ports – Shore Excursion
From the Ho Chi Minh ports, travelers can embark on an immersive day trip to the Mekong Delta, a region renowned for its lush waterways, vibrant floating markets, and rich cultural heritage.
This private tour, priced from $155 per person, offers a comprehensive experience with a focus on personalization. Highlights include an air-conditioned vehicle, English-speaking guide, lunch, and travel insurance.
Pickup and drop-off can be arranged directly from the cruise ship, with a port permit service available. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and suitable for most travelers.
Participants are advised to dress respectfully and bring essential items like sunscreen and insect repellent.
Read our full review: Day Trip to Mekong Delta From Ho Chi Minh Ports – Shore Excursion Review
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Shore Excursion to Visit Ho Chi Minh City From PHU MY PORT ( Private Tour )
Setting out on a private tour from the Phu My Port offers travelers an immersive exploration of Ho Chi Minh City‘s vibrant sights and cultural heritage.
Priced at €183.51 per person, this 5-star rated excursion includes a private car or minivan, an English-speaking guide, entrance tickets, and lunch.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.
Customers can take advantage of the flexible cancellation policy and reserve now, pay later option.
While some past guests reported issues with vendor responsiveness and punctuality, the Venture Ashore agent’s positive assistance is noteworthy.
Read our full review: Shore Excursion to Visit Ho Chi Minh City From PHU MY PORT ( Private Tour ) Review
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Private Phu My Port Shore Excursion: Unseen Parts Of Saigon
Travelers seeking a more immersive experience beyond the typical tourist hotspots will find the Private Phu My Port Shore Excursion: Unseen Parts of Saigon a compelling option.
Priced from $118 per person, this private tour offers a comprehensive exploration of Ho Chi Minh City’s lesser-known areas. Highlights include private transportation, a local lunch, and a knowledgeable English-speaking guide.
With an impressive 4.7-star rating based on 3 reviews, this excursion provides an opportunity to discover Saigon’s hidden gems, away from the crowds.
The tour’s flexibility, with free cancellation and rescheduling, makes it an attractive choice for cruise passengers seeking a personalized and authentic Vietnamese experience during their port of call.
Read our full review: Private Phu My Port Shore Excursion: Unseen Parts Of Saigon Review
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Sum Up
From the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh to the serene Mekong Delta, cruise passengers have a wealth of shore excursion options. Whether it’s a private tour, a food-focused adventure, or a visit to historical landmarks, these excursions offer an immersive experience that showcases the best of what this vibrant region has to offer. Travelers can expect to discover the hidden gems and cultural highlights that make Ho Chi Minh City and its surroundings a must-visit destination.