The Real Ho Chi Minh City Excursion

TOUR OVERVIEW

Discover the true spirit of southern Vietnam on The Real Ho Chi Minh City Excursion. This is an immersive Ho Chi Minh City shore excursions designed for cruise travelers arriving at Phu My Port. Journey from the port into the heart of bustling Ho Chi Minh City, where French colonial architecture blends with vibrant street life and layers of living history. Visit sacred temples, bustling markets, and poignant historical landmarks while sampling the city’s world-famous cuisine.

This Tour is Perfect For:

• Cruise passengers seeking an authentic and comprehensive look at Ho Chi Minh City.
• Travelers who enjoy a mix of culture, history, and local flavor.
• Visitors looking for a guided, worry-free experience from port to city and back.

FULL ITINERARY

Pick up from Phu My Port

Your English-speaking guide and private driver will greet you warmly at Phu My Port with a personalized welcome sign. After a comfortable transfer by air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll head toward Ho Chi Minh City, observing everyday rural and urban scenes along the way.

Visit Thien Hau Temple

Your first stop is Thien Hau Temple, located in the city’s historic Chinatown. Dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu, protector of sailors and fishermen, the temple is an exquisite example of Chinese architecture and devotion. Its intricate wood carvings, incense coils hanging from the ceiling, and ornate ceramic dioramas depicting traditional tales make it one of the city’s most photogenic spiritual sites. Here, you’ll witness locals offering prayers and see how faith continues to shape daily life in modern Saigon.

Visit the War Remnants Museum

Your next destination is the War Remnants Museum, one of Vietnam’s most powerful and thought-provoking sites. The museum preserves a sobering collection of photographs, artifacts, and historical documents from the Vietnam War era.

Exhibits include restored military vehicles, personal letters, and poignant images that reflect the resilience and courage of the Vietnamese people. Despite its serious tone, this visit offers a deeper understanding of the nation’s journey toward peace and independence.

Visit a Lacquerware Workshop

Continue to a traditional lacquerware workshop, where you’ll learn about one of Vietnam’s most time-honored art forms. Skilled artisans will demonstrate each step of the process, from preparing the wooden base to applying layers of resin, polishing, and decorating with eggshell or mother-of-pearl inlay. You’ll gain a newfound appreciation for the patience and precision that go into every piece, and have the opportunity to purchase high-quality crafts directly from the makers.

Visit Local Market in Ho Chi Minh City

Depending on your ship’s schedule and port timing, the tour will include a visit to one of the two local markets listed below.

Ben Thanh Market

*This market is arranged for Sapphire Princess & NCL Jade cruise guests

Next, dive into the lively energy of Ben Thanh Market, the beating heart of downtown Saigon. Wander through aisles packed with colorful stalls selling everything from handicrafts and silk garments to aromatic spices and tropical fruits. It’s a sensory experience like no other, filled with sounds, scents, and smiles. Bargaining is part of the fun, so don’t hesitate to practice your skills while picking up authentic Vietnamese souvenirs.

Cho Lon Market

*This market is arranged for Diamond Princess cruise guests

Visit Cho Lon Market, one of the lively traditional markets in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere and everyday life of the local community. The market is also a great place to discover the Chinese-Vietnamese cultural heritage of the Cho Lon area, with its distinctive trading traditions and flavors.

Lunch with Pho at Local Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese lunch at a local restaurant, featuring the country’s beloved dish Pho – a fragrant noodle soup served with herbs, lime, and chili – along with freshly made spring rolls. This meal provides a delicious glimpse into Vietnam’s culinary traditions and the balance of flavors that define its cuisine.

Photo Stops: City Landmarks

After lunch, take a leisurely drive through central Ho Chi Minh City to admire its iconic landmarks. Pause for photo opportunities at:

• Independence Palace – once the presidential residence during wartime
• Notre Dame Cathedral (currently under restoration)
• Central Post Office – designed by Gustave Eiffel
• Saigon Opera House – a stunning example of French colonial architecture.

These sites capture the city’s fusion of historical grandeur and contemporary life.

Return to Phu My Port

As the tour concludes, your guide and driver will escort you safely back to Phu My Port in good time for your ship’s departure. Reflect on a day filled with history, culture, and the unforgettable sights and sounds of Ho Chi Minh City.

Thanks for traveling with Vietnam Shore Excursions!