Private Shore Excursion To Ho Chi Minh City From Cruise Port

Experience every corner of Saigon in one day with our local professional guides. Discover untold historical stories when visiting Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, Opera House, Museum of War Remnants, and other famous architectures. Learn about Vietnamese rich culture at Ben Thanh Market, Jade Emperor Pagoda, and enjoy Vietnamese cuisine through rustic but delicious dishes... And you will feel more secure knowing that we guarantee to take you back to the port on time for your next journey.

• Best price guarantee
• Free cancellation
• Flexible & customizable
• Private air-conditioned vehicle
• On-time back-to-ship  guaranty
• Dockside pick-up and drop off

08:00 Meet our guide in front of the main gate (5 minute walk from the dock, shuttle bus is also available for most of the cruiseliners ), heading to Saigon city center where we start our tour today. 

Visit inside Ben Thanh Market: A bustling hub of commerce and culture. Its vibrant atmosphere showcases an array of goods, from local produce to handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Built in the 19th century, it stands as a landmark of Vietnamese heritage and trade. You can expect a sensory overload of sights, sounds, and smells; lively bargaining sessions with vendors, where haggling is part of the experience.

Photo stop at Saigon Opera House: A majestic architectural gem. Built during the French colonial era, it boasts a stunning neoclassical design and hosts a range of cultural performances, including ballet, opera, and concerts. Its ornate facade and grand interiors reflect the city's rich cultural heritage

People Committee Building: Formerly known as Saigon City Hall, boasts neoclassical architecture dating back to French colonial rule (1902-1908). Designed by architect Gardès, its symmetrical layout features a central clock tower, arched windows, and ornate balconies, showcasing French opulence. Once the South Vietnamese government's headquarters during the Vietnam War, it now serves as the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee's seat. Despite its colonial past, the building symbolizes the city's resilience and historic evolution, embodying its governance and architectural heritage.

Visit outside Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral: Built from 1877 to 1880, under the direction of French architect Jules Bourard, the church epitomizes French colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Its twin bell towers rise 58 meters, dominating the skyline. The cathedral's red bricks, imported from Marseille, contrast with its white façade. Inside, stained glass windows depict biblical scenes. Despite war damage, it stands as a testament to the city's history and a symbol of culture.

Visit inside Saigon Central Post Office: Designed by Gustave Eiffel - author of the famous Paris Eiffel Tower & New York's Liberty statue - and completed in 1895, is an iconic blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French architectural styles. Its ornate facade features arched windows and intricate metalwork. Inside, a cavernous hall with high ceilings showcases historical maps and a grand clock. Symbolizing colonial heritage, it remains operational and draws tourists to marvel at its beauty and history.

Visit inside Independence Palace: Built in the 1960s, this iconic landmark witnessed pivotal moments in Vietnamese history. Explore its grand halls, preserved in time, where decisions that shaped the nation were made. Marvel at its blend of modernist and traditional design, reflecting Vietnam's journey to independence. Walk through the underground bunkers, a glimpse into wartime strategies. Saigon Independence Palace offers a captivating journey through Vietnam's past, where visitors can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of culture, politics, and resilience that define the nation today.

13:00 Lunch at Hoa Tuk restaurant with Vietnamese 3 dishes meal

Visit inside Museum of War Remnants: Which show you a poignant insight into Vietnam's turbulent past, particularly during the Vietnam War. Exhibits feature powerful imagery, including photographs and artifacts, documenting the war's impact on the country. Visitors encounter thought-provoking displays on Agent Orange, prisons, and wartime atrocities. The museum serves as a solemn tribute to those affected and a reminder of the horrors of war

Visit Minh Phuong Lacquer-Ware Gallery: A nice place to witness the traditional Vietnamese art form of lacquerwork that dates back centuries. These premises house the workstation as well as a showroom that is open to the public for tours. Visit the gallery and watch the artists create beautiful lacquer masterpieces and browse through their collection of paintings, furnishings, jewelry boxes, vases, coasters, and wall dishes to take home as a gift and souvenir.

Visit inside Emperor Jade Pagoda: A spiritual oasis nestled in the heart of Saigon. Built in the early 20th century, this sacred site is a testament to Vietnamese religious heritage. Enter its ornate gates to discover a sanctuary dedicated to Taoist and Buddhist beliefs. Marvel at the intricate statues of deities, adorned with offerings and incense. Discover its unique, fusion of architecture, art, and spirituality that cherishes the symbol of cultural richness in Saigon.

17:30 Tour complete when we drop you off at the port.

• Private air-conditioned transportation 
• Licensed professional English-speaking guide (other languages are available on request)
• Admission ticket t0 Unification Hall & War Museum
• Bottled water 
• Vietnamese traditional 03-course lunch 
• Coffee tasting
• Wi-fi on board
• Souvenir

Personal expenses, gratuities