The Real Ho Chi Minh City Tour

Tour Overview

Discover the vibrant soul of Ho Chi Minh City on this perfectly balanced shore excursion that blends history, spirituality, craftsmanship, and everyday local life. From ancient temples and powerful wartime stories to colorful markets and elegant colonial landmarks, this Ho Chi Minh City shore excursions offers a rich introduction to Saigon - capped off with a delicious Vietnamese lunch featuring iconic pho and fresh spring rolls.

Designed to maximize your time in port, this experience delivers the city’s must-see highlights with comfortable transportation, insightful commentary, and plenty of photo opportunities.

Who This Tour Is For:

• Cruise passengers seeking a well-rounded city overview
• Culture and history lovers
• Travelers who enjoy local food, markets, and easy-paced sightseeing

Full Itinerary

Port Pickup

Meet your friendly English-speaking guide at the cruise port holding a welcome sign. Depart by private, air-conditioned vehicle for your Ho Chi Minh city exploration.

Thien Hau Temple (Chinatown)

Tucked away in the lively streets of Chinatown, Thien Hau Temple offers a moment of calm and mystery. As incense smoke drifts upward through the open courtyard, you’ll discover the spiritual traditions of Saigon’s Chinese community and admire beautifully preserved carvings, ceramic figures, and centuries-old architecture. It’s a peaceful and photogenic start to your day.

Vietnam War Remnants Museum

More than just a museum, this is one of the most impactful stops in Vietnam. Through compelling photographs and exhibits, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the Vietnam War and its lasting effects. This visit adds meaning and context to your journey, making your time in Ho Chi Minh City more memorable and thought-provoking.

Lacquerware Workshop

Witness Vietnamese craftsmanship firsthand as skilled artisans demonstrate the intricate process of creating lacquerware - an art passed down through generations. This intimate visit gives you insight into local culture and offers a chance to find authentic, handmade souvenirs that are far more meaningful than mass-produced items.

Stroll Local Market

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

Continue the Real Ho Chi Minh City Tour at the city’s most iconic market. Ben Thanh is colorful, lively, and full of character, where the sounds, scents, and smiles capture the spirit of Saigon. It’s the perfect place to shop, people-watch, and bring home a piece of Vietnam.

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.

Local Lunch with Pho & Spring Rolls

Enjoy a satisfying local lunch featuring Pho, Vietnam’s world-famous noodle soup, paired with fresh spring rolls. This meal isn’t just food, it’s part of the cultural experience, offering flavors that locals enjoy every day.

Ho Chi Minh City Highlights & Photo Stops

Drive through the elegant heart of the city and stop at Saigon’s most famous landmarks:

• Independence Palace, where history changed in 1975
• Notre Dame Cathedral, a striking reminder of French colonial influence
• Central Post Office, an architectural gem still buzzing with local life
• Saigon Opera House, refined, graceful, and ideal for photos

These highlights give you classic postcard images and a clear sense of Saigon’s colonial past.

Return to Port

After this Ho Chi Minh City shore excursion, relax on the drive back to the cruise port with ample time before your ship’s departure.

Special Notes

• Comfortable walking shoes recommended
• Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites
• Lunch is included; please advise of dietary restrictions in advance
• Traffic conditions may affect timing, but port return is guaranteed

Inquire about this tour now with Japan Shore Excursions - Your local experts in unforgettable journeys!