Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion: Private City Tour Including Cyclo Ride
Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
When your cruise ship docks at Phu My or Lotus port, a local guide takes you on a private shore excursion to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s most populous metropolitan area. Visit the National History Museum, enjoy a photo op in front of the Presidential Palace and enoy the local cuisine at local restaurant. Swap your air-conditioned car for a cyclo as you take a relaxing ride past French-colonial buildings such as the Saigon Opera House. Finish at Ben Thanh market, a lively spot bursting with goods.
Available options
Option 1
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Professional guide
Lunch
Worry-Free Shore Excursion Guarantee
Port pickup and drop-off
Transport by air-conditioned private car
Detailed itinerary
1
Worry-free Shore Excursion: We will ensure your excursion ends with ample time for you to return to the Ho Chi Minh City port for your ship’s departure. In the extremely unlikely event your ship has departed, we will arrange for transportation to the next port-of-call. If your ship is delayed and you are unable to attend this activity, your money will be refunded. See our terms and conditions for full details.
2
Your full-day shore excursion begins with pickup at Phu My or Lotus port and a 2-hour drive into Ho Chi Minh City in the air-conditioned comfort of a private vehicle.
3
Start out at the National History Museum, which houses an excellent collection of artifacts illustrating the evolution of the cultures of Vietnam, from the Dong Son civilization of the Bronze Age to Cham, Khmer and modern-day peoples.
4
Stop 4
Then visit visit the Emperor Jade Pagoda, also known as Tortoise Pagoda, is one of the five most important shrines in Ho Chi Minh City, where American President Barack Obama chose to visit in 2016
5
After lunch at a local restaurant, take a 1-hour cyclo ride along Dong Khoi Street, formerly known as the Rue Catinat, which is the heart of old colonial Saigon. Pass by classic French-style landmarks such as Saigon City Hall and the Saigon Opera House, and pay a quick visit to the neo-Romanesque Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office nearby.
Make a photo stop at the Presidential Palace, renowned for its symbolic role in the fall of Saigon in 1975, and end your cyclo tour at Ben Thanh market, one of the liveliest areas of Ho Chi Minh City. You’re free to explore the market, packed with every conceivable commodity, before the return drive by private vehicle back to the cruise terminal.
What's not included
Food and drinks, unless specified
Gratuities
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
33 reviews
5★
18
4★
9
3★
3
2★
1
1★
2
Tripadvisor
4.5
11 reviews
5★
9
4★
0
3★
1
2★
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1★
1
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants. Failure to do so could affect services rendered.
About Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.
Top Attractions
War Remnants Museum
This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Cu Chi Tunnels
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Historical
Half-day tour
Moderate (tour prices vary)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Ben Thanh Market
One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.
Observation Deck
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Com Tam
Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Goi Cuon
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels
Boat tours in the Mekong Delta
Beach relaxation in Vung Tau
Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum
Exploring local markets and temples
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.
25-35°C
77-95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Bargain for better prices at markets
Getting there
By air
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Saigon Railway Station
By bus
Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
District 1
District 3
District 5 (Chinatown)
District 7
Phu Nhuan District
Day trips
Mekong Delta
130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
Cu Chi Tunnels
60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Vung Tau
120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Festivals
Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year)
Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
- Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
