The "Phu My Port to Saigon City and Ben Thanh Market Tour" offers an engaging cultural experience for travellers seeking to enjoy the vibrant heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Spanning eight hours, the tour combines scenic drives, historic landmarks, and culinary delights, promising a well-rounded exploration of the city’s rich heritage. Whether you’re captivated by the bustling energy of Ben Thanh Market or intrigued by the poignant exhibits at the War Remnants Museum, this private tour provides an opportunity to uncover the diverse facets that define Saigon’s unique character.
Key Points
- The tour departs from Phu My Port, with a 2-hour car ride to Ho Chi Minh City to explore key sights like Ben Thanh Market and Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- Ben Thanh Market, a shopper’s paradise, offers 1.5 hours of browsing local handicrafts, fresh produce, and traditional street food.
- Visitors can admire the French colonial architecture and rich history of Saigon Central Post Office and Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.
- A light lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant provides a culture and a break before visiting the poignant War Remnants Museum.
- The tour includes private transportation, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees for a seamless and convenient experience.
Tour Overview
The tour, titled "Phu My Port to Saigon City and Ben Thanh Market Tour," is priced from €96.34 per person and lasts approximately 8 hours.
It’s a private tour with an English-speaking guide, including private transportation, a light lunch, and all entrance fees.
The tour starts at Phu My Port, followed by a 2-hour car ride to Ho Chi Minh City. Highlights include 1.5 hours at Ben Thanh Market, visits to the Saigon Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral, a 1-hour lunch, and a stop at the War Remnants Museum.
The tour then heads back to Phu My Port, with a 2-hour car ride.
Recommended items include comfortable shoes and clothes, a camera, and cash.
Itinerary Highlights
Starting at the Phu My Port, the tour embarks on a 2-hour car ride to Ho Chi Minh City.
Upon arrival, guests spend 1.5 hours exploring the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, browsing local wares and souvenirs.
The next stop is the Saigon Central Post Office, where visitors can snap photos and admire the French colonial architecture.
After, the group heads to the iconic Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral for another photo opportunity.
Lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant follows, before visiting the War Remnants Museum for a somber 1-hour tour.
The day concludes with a 2-hour car ride back to the Phu My Port.
Starting Point
The tour begins at the Phu My Port, located just 500 meters from the cruise ship. This convenient starting point allows guests to easily access the tour from their ships.
The tour then departs on a 2-hour car ride to Ho Chi Minh City, where the key sights and experiences of the day await. From the vibrant Ben Thanh Market to the historic Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral, the tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s highlights.
With private transportation, a professional English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees included, the tour ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for guests starting their journey from the Phu My Port.
Ben Thanh Market
After the 2-hour drive from Phu My Port, the tour takes guests to the bustling Ben Thanh Market.
This iconic landmark is a shopper’s paradise, offering a wide variety of goods:
- Local handicrafts and souvenirs
- Fresh produce, meats, and seafood
- Traditional Vietnamese street food
Visitors can explore the vibrant stalls, haggle with the friendly vendors, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
With 1.5 hours allocated for this segment, guests have ample time to browse, shop, and soak up the local culture.
The market’s diverse offerings cater to all interests, making it a highlight of the tour.
Saigon Central Post Office
Departing the lively Ben Thanh Market, the tour proceeds to the iconic Saigon Central Post Office.
Built in the late 19th century, this magnificent French colonial-style structure is a must-see for visitors. The group will spend an hour exploring the grand interior, admiring the ornate architecture and high ceilings.
They’ll have the opportunity to photograph the impressive façade and learn about the building’s rich history from the knowledgeable tour guide. The post office is a functional landmark, still serving the community today, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s past and present.
After the visit, the tour continues to the next stop, the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral
Leaving the bustling Saigon Central Post Office, the tour group proceeds to the iconic Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.
This magnificent French colonial-style cathedral, built in the late 19th century, stands as a symbol of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
Visitors can:
- Admire the cathedral’s towering twin spires, which reach 60 meters into the sky.
- Step inside the grand interior, adorned with intricate stained-glass windows and impressive wooden altars.
- Capture stunning photos of the cathedral’s picturesque facade, framed by the bustling streets of Saigon.
The tour group spends an hour exploring this architectural masterpiece, taking in its spiritual ambiance and learning about its significance in the city’s past and present.
Lunch
The tour group then enjoys a 1-hour lunch at a local Vietnamese restaurant, where they savor the best beef noodles and sip on traditional Vietnamese coffee.
The meal is a chance to enjoy the local cuisine and culture. The restaurant offers a cozy and authentic atmosphere, allowing the travelers to take a break from the day’s activities and recharge for the remainder of the tour.
The light but satisfying lunch provides the energy needed to continue exploring the vibrant city of Saigon.
After the meal, the group is ready to move on to the next stop on the itinerary.
War Remnants Museum
After their filling lunch, the group heads to the War Remnants Museum. This poignant museum offers a sobering look at the Vietnam War’s impact.
Visitors can explore:
- Graphic photographs documenting the war’s atrocities
- Rusting military equipment, including a helicopter and tanks
- Chilling exhibits on Agent Orange’s devastating effects
The tour guide provides context, ensuring the group understands the museum’s significance.
Though the subject matter is heavy, the visit prompts meaningful reflection on humanity’s capacity for both destruction and resilience.
With a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s history, the group prepares to continue their exploration of Saigon.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
According to the details provided, the tour itinerary appears to be fixed. However, travelers can check with the tour operator about the possibility of customizing the itinerary to suit their preferences, though additional fees may apply.
What Happens if the Tour Is Delayed Due to Traffic?
If the tour is delayed due to traffic, the tour guide will adjust the itinerary accordingly. They’ll communicate any changes to the participants and ensure the tour runs smoothly within the allotted time frame.
Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?
There is no option to extend the tour duration. The tour operates on a fixed 8-hour schedule, and any delays due to traffic or other factors are not accommodated with additional time. Guests must adhere to the provided itinerary and timelines.
Can I Bring Large Bags or Heavy Luggage on the Tour?
No, large bags or heavy luggage are not allowed on the tour. The tour itinerary specifies that oversized luggage and large bags are not permitted. Travelers are advised to bring only comfortable clothes and a camera.
Are Gratuities for the Tour Guide Included in the Price?
The tour price does not include gratuities for the tour guide. Guests are expected to tip the guide separately if they are satisfied with the service provided.
Recap
The "Phu My Port to Saigon City and Ben Thanh Market Tour" provides a comprehensive 8-hour experience, blending history, culture, and cuisine. Travelers can expect a scenic drive, explorations of iconic landmarks, a delightful local lunch, and a thought-provoking visit to the War Remnants Museum. This private tour offers a well-rounded introduction to the vibrant city of Ho Chi Minh.