The historic Con Son Island packs a remarkable mix of colonial architecture, dramatic coastlines, and compelling Vietnam War history into its compact size. The best tours here cut straight to the island’s highlights while avoiding tourist traps. My favorite excursions combine the sobering prison sites with stops at pristine beaches and local markets. The half-day historical tours efficiently cover French-era buildings and war memorials, while full-day nature tours showcase the island’s rugged beaches and mountain trails. Having explored dozens of similar Southeast Asian islands, I find Con Son’s blend of history and natural beauty truly distinctive. Let’s examine the most worthwhile tour options for experiencing this remarkable destination.
Key Points
- Con Son Island offers private tours exploring its scenic beaches, historic sites, and natural attractions like the Con Dao National Park.
- Guided tours of the Con Dao Prison, a former political prison, provide insights into the island’s turbulent history.
- Boat tours around the island’s coastline showcase its stunning natural beauty, including crystal-clear waters and lush mangrove forests.
- Hiking tours in the Con Dao National Park allow visitors to witness diverse wildlife, including sea turtles and rare bird species.
- Private tours can be customized to include activities such as snorkeling, kayaking, and visiting traditional fishing villages on the island.
Private Tours of Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City or Mekong Delta From Any Cruise Port
For travelers who want to explore the highlights of Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, or the Mekong Delta during their cruise stop, this private tour offers a comprehensive and customizable experience.
Lasting 5 hours, the tour includes transportation by cyclo, ’80 Vespa, ’70 Royal Enfield motorcycle, or ’67 Ford Mustang, ensuring a unique and memorable journey.
Key attractions on the itinerary include Ho Chi Minh City’s historic and French-colonial architecture, the Emperor Jade Pagoda, Reunification Palace, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum.
A traditional Vietnamese lunch is also included.
With a minimum of 2 people per booking and child rates available, the tour is priced from $229 per person and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Boasting an impressive 4.9 rating from 56 reviews, this private tour is a popular and highly recommended way to experience the cultural and historical highlights of southern Vietnam.
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Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion From Phu My Port
This private Ho Chi Minh City shore excursion from Phu My Port offers travelers a comprehensive and customizable full-day experience exploring the city’s major landmarks.
With 239 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence. Priced from $119 per person, the flexible itinerary includes visits to the War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and General Post Office, as well as a traditional Vietnamese lunch and café sua da (coffee with condensed milk).
Pickup and drop-off from the port, professional guides, and private air-conditioned transportation ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Travelers praise the knowledgeable, flexible, and friendly guides, as well as the comfortable transportation and excellent local cuisine.
The tour is designed for private groups only, and confirmation is provided upon booking.
While not wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate in this comprehensive shore excursion from Phu My Port.
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Ho Chi Minh City Private Shore Excursion From Phu My Port
Travelers seeking a comprehensive and customizable shore excursion from Phu My Port to explore the highlights of Ho Chi Minh City will find this private tour an excellent choice.
The tour covers key sites like the Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, Chinatown, and the lively Ben Thanh Market, while also providing opportunities to experience the city’s French colonial architecture and indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine and coffee.
Rated 4.7 stars with 91% recommendations, the tour includes roundtrip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a provided lunch that accommodates dietary requirements.
Along with mineral water and all entrance fees, the package offers a hassle-free experience. While tips for the guide and driver aren’t included, the private nature of the tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility.
Travelers should confirm their cruise ship details at booking, and be aware that some past guests have had issues with food quality or air conditioning.
Nevertheless, the shore excursion remains a well-reviewed option for those seeking to make the most of their time in Ho Chi Minh City.
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Best of Vung Tau City Shore Excursion From Phu My Port
Exploring the coastal city of Vung Tau is a must-do for travelers docking at Phu My Port. This 4.9-star rated shore excursion takes visitors on a journey through the city’s French colonial architecture, stunning temples, and breathtaking views.
Highlights include the Niet Ban Tinh Xa pagoda, Thich Ca Phat Dai pagoda, Nirvana Meditation Retreat, Pagoda of the Lying Buddha, and the iconic Vung Tau Lighthouse.
The tour includes a Vietnamese-style lunch at a local restaurant, where guests can savor dishes like banh khot and pho. The private, air-conditioned minivan transport and knowledgeable guide ensure a seamless and personalized experience.
Travelers rave about the guides’ friendliness, local insights, and attention to detail. With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers convenient and flexible logistics.
Whether you’re seeking culture or simply breathtaking coastal vistas, the Best of Vung Tau City Shore Excursion is an excellent choice for your Phu My Port visit.
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Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion From Cruise Port
One of the best ways to discover the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh during a cruise stop is through the Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from the Cruise Port.
This all-day guided adventure, operated by Maximus Travel Vietnam, offers a rundown of the city’s key landmarks.
The tour includes visits to the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Chinatown, and the famous Ben Thanh Market. Travelers will also enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant.
Throughout the day, guests will be transported in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan with a private guide.
With a rating of 4.6/5 from 5 reviews, this excursion provides a memorable and flexible experience.
Highlights include a visit to the 52nd floor of the Bitexco Tower and personalized gestures like receiving flowers.
While some feedback mentions minor issues with pickup and language, the tour’s overall positive reviews suggest it’s an excellent way to make the most of a Ho Chi Minh City cruise stop.
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Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 1 Day Excursion From Phu My Seaport 5*
For cruise ship passengers seeking a comprehensive exploration of Ho Chi Minh City during their limited time, the Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 1 Day Excursion From Phu My Seaport 5* offers an immersive and customizable experience.
This private full-day tour provides an in-depth look at the city’s highlights, from temples and palaces to colonial-era quarters and vibrant markets. Travelers will enjoy a delicious Vietnamese lunch, including a vegetarian option, and have the flexibility to tailor the itinerary to their preferences.
The tour includes private transfers, an English-speaking guide, all entrance fees, and a bottle of water per person. While the tour has received mixed feedback on guide knowledge and English proficiency, positive reviews highlight the punctuality, informative guides, and excellent lunch.
Travelers should note that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and modest attire is required for temple visits. This tour provides cruise passengers a chance to make the most of their time in Ho Chi Minh City.
Read our full review: Ho Chi Minh City Tour – 1 Day Excursion From Phu My Seaport 5* Review
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Sum Up
Con Son offers a variety of private tours that allow visitors to explore the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. These tours provide convenient options for cruise ship passengers, departing from the Phu My port. The excursions cover the best sights and attractions, giving travelers a comprehensive experience of the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.