Are you visiting Vietnam for the first time on a cruise and unsure about what to see and do with your limited time inland? In any case, if you Google “Shore excursions in Vietnam,” you’ll discover a ton of results, and I guess it will take you a while to go through them all to find the information you need and complete your bucket list with the ideal destination.
Because of this, I am here to serve as your local expert and show you to the top places in Vietnam for shore excursions. You may quickly determine which of the fantastic trips that depart from the ports in Southern, Central, and Northern Vietnam is your favourite by using the list that follows. Also, because we provide customized tours, we may adjust the schedule to reflect your interests, so do not be afraid to contact us with any suggestions.
1/ Saigon
Recommended ports include Phu My, Hiep Phuoc, and Nha Rong
Ho Chi Minh City, commonly known as Sai Gon, is a major tourist destination in this stunning nation and is situated in the southern part of Viet Nam. This city, which blends with many different cultures, faiths, and ethical systems, should be on your “must-visit” list.
What is the best time to travel to Saigon? The southern region of Vietnam has both wet and dry seasons. Theoretically, you may visit Sai Gon whenever you choose because the weather there isn’t particularly severe at any one time. But, if you want to get the most out of your trip, I strongly advise going during the dry season (around September – March). If you visit during the rainy season, you can experience a lot of unexpected rain throughout your tour, which could be a little upsetting to you. Moreover, if it starts to rain heavily (often in June and July), you’ll have to stay at your hotel rather than taking a tour.
Secondly, what or where should you see when you first travel to Saigon? Yet, depending on your interests and individual needs, there are numerous things to view. However, we do have a list of significant landmarks that you absolutely must see, such as the downtown area with its numerous historic French buildings, the China temples located inside the tiny Chinese neighborhood in district 5, or the numerous large wet markets that will astound you with their wide variety of fresh goods. In particular, join us so that we may jointly tour the neighborhood and streets of Vietnam while riding the distinctive Sai Gon mode of transportation known as the rickshaw.
2/ Cu Chi Tunnel and Saigon Highlights
Recommended ports include Phu My, Hiep Phuoc, and Nha Rong
Cu Chi Tunnels, which formerly served as an excellent hiding spot for Vietnamese soldiers during the Vietnam War, are now a top choice for history buffs who wish to learn more about the current history of warfare. And like with Sai Gon, the best time to tour these tunnels is during the dry season. If you travel during the wet season, it will be a bit difficult to crawl inside since the entire road is covered in dust and muck.
You will have two options when you arrive at this area. One is Ben Duoc, which has a lot of intricate and little tunnels and is also not overrun with visitors; however, it will take you quite a long time to drive there and explore, so I only suggest it if you have a lot of time to spend inland. The next one is Ben Dinh, which requires less driving time and has broader, easier-to-climb tunnels. Nevertheless, because so many people travel there, there is a strong likelihood that you will have to wait in line. And on the way back to the port, we will have the chance to stop and try out the most delicious Pho beef noodles in the town at the local restaurant.
You still have time after spending only a half-day exploring the Cuchi tunnels; should you go back to the ship at this point? Oh, no, because you must pass through this town on your trip from Cu Chi to your port, you may spend the remainder of the day traveling to Saigon or Ho Chi Minh City. Even if you’ve been here before, don’t worry; there are always a ton of fresh and intriguing things for you to do.
3/ Vung Tau City
Recommended port: Phu My
Although Cu Chi or Sai Gon are more well-known than Vung Tau, this seaside city is nonetheless well worth a trip. Beautiful seashores, a somber but serene ambiance, and nearby authentic villages all come together to make a classic beach town in the process of development.
You can engage in a variety of activities here, such as ascending the Jesus statue to take in the breathtaking view of Vung Tau City, strolling along the length of the coastline to feel the warm wind on your face, and visiting Ong Lon’s ancient home to learn about the distinctive religion of the locals. Also, the seafood in Vung Tau is really fresh and delectable to sample, much like in the other seaside cities.You may visit a variety of marketplaces and retail centers in Vung Tau. Be sure you’ve come to the proper spot because the majority of their wares are little, colorful gifts like key chains or hand fans and sun-dried seafood.
Also, the Ho May theme park in Vung Tau city is a fantastic choice to visit if you have a large family with many kids and you don’t want them to spend hours waiting in the car. You may spend the entire day relaxing there after traveling there in less than an hour, while your children play in a really fascinating playground.
4/ Mekong
Nha Rong, Hiep Phuoc, and Phu My are suggested ports (if you have more than 12 hours inland)
In contrast to Saigon’s crowded, frenetic environment, the Mekong region is considerably more rural and real, with calm weather and a stunning landscape.
Here are some helpful facts you should be aware of. Each season has its own intriguing aspect for you to investigate. You will be welcomed by mild rain and nice weather if you travel between April and June, which allows you to enjoy fruit orchard visits and riverboating. The greatest variety of tropical fruits are available from June through September, despite the extreme heat and humidity. However, as the water level rises the most from October to December, be cautious when traveling at this period.
My suggestion is to visit Bentre, which is well-known for its coconut candy, if you wish to explore and see local people at work. Despite being a popular tourist destination, there are several ways for visitors to get there based on their interests. Also, there are several companies where you may observe the production of brick, coconut sweets, straw mats, etc.
Although we go on a variety of vehicles, including “Xe Ba Gac” (or, for fun, “Mekong Lamborghini”), rowing boats, and other forms of transportation, our guide will give you an overall impression of the Mekong delta. collaborating with us to observe and understand the way of life of Vietnamese people in the South.
Another on your “must-visit” list, in my opinion, is Cai Rang floating market. As this location is in Can Tho, which is quite a distance from Sai Gon, it usually takes us 2 days to get there and explore. But what if your cruise itinerary includes a limited amount of time inland? The floating market will have to be forgotten, right? Instead, you may travel to Tien Giang, which is around two hours away by vehicle from Sai Gon, and see the Cai Be floating market. This market may nonetheless convey the notion of a daily floating market of people in the Mekong, albeit being smaller and perhaps less crowded than the largest one in Can Tho.
In addition to visiting the floating market, Tien Giang offers a variety of other activities, such as going to locals’ homes to observe their daily activities, taking a bamboo rowing boat down a small river to take in the tranquility of the rural town, riding along a rice field on the back of a local’s motorcycle, etc.
5/ Ho Coc Beach
Recommended port: Phu My
Ho Coc beach, which offers a variety of breathtaking natural landscapes, is the perfect place to go if you’re searching for a calm and straightforward hiking experience. This location, in the province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau, has become a popular weekend hangout for Vietnamese people, particularly those with large families and children.
If you visit Ho Coc in the Southern VietNam dry season, the terrain is breathtakingly gorgeous, with a warm wind and a dazzling yellow sun. It will be roomy for you to travel throughout the week; but, on weekends, there are large groups of Vietnamese visitors visiting this location.
Suoi Nghe Sheep Hill is the ideal location if you enjoy taking pictures. When residents began grazing sheep and building sheep fields, what was once a barren and dry area has become a popular location for visitors to visit and snap photographs. When you visit this place, you’ll be plunged into the wide expanse of sheep pastures with a variety of interesting filming viewpoints.
The Binh Chau Phuoc Buu nature reserve, one of the few places along the South Seacoast to keep the considerable sight of natural forest, is another place where we may spend some time performing simple trekking. You will be astounded by the richness of uncommon wild species and the variety of freshwater ponds and lakes when you visit this location. You will especially get the chance to observe and visit hot springs that are hidden amid an indigo forest with overgrown foliage.
We’ll stop at the Rung va Bien stop, where couples frequently stop to take wedding photographs, on the way back to the port. You may eat lunch while admiring the stunning and serene seascape.
6/ Nha Trang City
Recommended port: Nha Trang
While visiting Vietnam by ship, Nha Trang city should always be on your bucket list due to its famed Cham tower building and long, gorgeous beach shoreline.
What is the best time to visit Nha Trang, then? Although summer lasts from early May through the end of August, the best time to visit is between February and May, when the weather is dry, temperate, and little to no rain. As a result, it’s perfect for water sports like surfing, hiking, and island hopping. Summer’s warmest months are July and August. By scheduling your vacation before the end of June, you may avoid the oppressive heat.
You may try a lot of fascinating sites and activities. Moreover, Cham towers is the must-see location when visiting this coastal city. Po Nagar is a place where you may admire the grandeur of this building while learning about the culture and religion of the Cham people. Speaking of architecture, I’d like to suggest the French-built Nha Trang Stone Church, which is perched on a tiny hill. You can see the Nha Trang railway station from the top of the hill when standing there.
In addition to the hectic tourism industry, the people still rely on their regular jobs to support themselves. When you visit this city, you may watch not only the breathtaking scenery and eye-catching buildings, but also the locals going about their regular, everyday lives, such as creating hats, straw mats, noodles, etc.
7/ Natural Eco Water Park YangBay
Recommended port: Nha Trang
Yang Bay Eco Park is the perfect place to go if you want to enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery of the waterfall in Vietnam, and it is around an hour’s drive from the city center of Nha Trang. Furthermore, breathtakingly gorgeous scenery can be seen all along the route leading from Nha Trang port to Yang Bay.
During the rainy season, when the water level rises and the waterfall flows violently and strongly, is the ideal time to explore this location.
You can be sure that there will be a peaceful and calm atmosphere for you to appreciate there because this place is situated fairly far from the large resorts. Ho Che, Yang Kang, and Yang Bay are three beautiful waterfalls. There are also hot springs and a small zoo that hosts animal exhibitions for visitors. Also, you will be treated to genuine musical performances by the locals, which are well worth listening to. Ostrich riding, cockfighting, feeding black bears, and other activities that appeal to both adults and children make this Eco Park a good choice for large families with several kids.Also, the coffee shop and restaurant close to Yang Bay waterfall offers crocodile and ostrich meat if you’re hungry.
For those searching for a fun and relaxing experience, this park is the best option. You won’t regret taking a day trip there, I’m sure of it.
8/ Hoian Ancient Town
Recommended ports: Tien Sa, Chan May
The Center of Vietnam, Hoi An, is unquestionably a place that “should not be missed” on any vacation itinerary. If you want a thorough cultural and architectural tour, Hoi An is a fantastic option whether your cruise arrives at Chan May port or Tien Sa port.
First, let’s discuss the ideal time to visit Hoi An. Some people claim that between February and April, when the weather is nice and dry, is the best time to visit this town. Yet, some would prefer to wait until May or June to snap the greatest photos in Hoi An’s brilliant golden sunshine.
Nonetheless, Hoi An’s weather is often pleasant and dry throughout the year, so whatever suits you is fine.
What, then, makes Hoi An so unique and renowned in today’s world? The majority of visitors praised the area’s serene atmosphere and lovely surroundings. Together with exploring the old town, you may engage in a variety of other activities. You may visit a rural location to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and try your hand at riding a buffalo, taking a bowl boat trip, or going fishing. If you enjoy cooking, you may sign up for a cooking class and test your culinary skills by using unusual veggies to prepare classic Vietnamese recipes.
You may go via the magnificent Hai Van pass and enjoy some Vietnamese coffee while standing on the pass to take in the majesty of Lang Co beach and Da Nang city, especially if your cruise docks at Chan May port.
9/ Danang City
Recommended ports: Tien Sa, Chan May
Da Nang city is a terrific place for you to visit since it is the most advanced and contemporary city in the center of Vietnam and has a lot of tourist attractions.
Da Nang city is extremely suitable for you to come with a tropical monsoon environment and warm temperatures practically the entire year. As there is little rain from February to May, this is an excellent time to visit the city. Moreover, December and January are pleasant months with mild temperatures, little rain, and lovely sunset views.
Similar to Hoi An, travelers departing from Chan May port can access Da Nang through the Hai Van pass. The outstanding overall view of this town will be exposed from the height when you stand on Hai Van pass.
The top attractions in Da Nang, such as the Dragon Bridge, Cham Museum, Da Nang Cathedral, My Khe Beach, etc., are a combination of peaceful beaches with crystal blue waters, lush national parks, and centuries-old pagodas. If you travel with several kids who want to have lots of activities to do, Da Nang is the ideal location since it offers more activities than Hue and Hoi An. Also, you may discover excellent shopping opportunities for buying regional handicrafts at several large marketplaces, such as Han market or Con market.
10/ Amazing adventure through Hai Van pass
Recommended ports: Tien Sa, Chan May
Besides the big landmarks of Central of VietNam like Hoi An ancient town, Hue citadel, etc. Hai Van pass and Lap An lagoon are outstanding spots for you to explore.
You may take a day excursion from Chan May or Tien Sa port to ride the Hai Van pass, one of Vietnam’s most picturesque highways. From here, you can see the road winding through the high hills and the luxuriant tropical vegetation on all sides. The stunning view of the azure ocean and the extensive white sand beaches will also no doubt leave an impression on you. You may pull over in the middle of the pass, sit down, and have a cup of Vietnamese coffee while taking in the breathtaking views of Lang Co Beach and the whole arc of contemporary Da Nang.
We’ll also stop in Vinh An, the city of ghosts, where you’ll be astounded by the royal stone lions that abound there and the sparkling mosaic dragons that grace the roof slopes. Moreover, the architecture at this location combines elements from Buddhism, Taoism, Catholicism, Vietnamese, Chinese, and Western cultures. Also, you have an opportunity to learn about the locals’ long-standing practice of constructing graves for ancestors even while they are still alive.
In addition to Vinh An, one of Hue’s unique natural settings, we’ll transport you to the lovely Lap An lagoon. Due to the area’s stunning natural surroundings, it is highly recommended for those who enjoy taking scenic photos. It is regarded as a secret, enigmatic utopia that tourism hasn’t really explored much. And if you visit at the day’s low tide, you’ll be able to stroll down a sandy road that emerges from the ocean to admire and take in the area’s exceptional natural beauty in a totally new way.
11/ Hue City
Recommended port: Chan May
Once the capital of Vietnam, Hue is today a popular tourist destination. Many stunning and historic places may be found across Vietnam, which has a rich culture and history.
The best time to visit Hue is between January and April when the weather is mild and neither the rain nor the sun are too forceful. It is fairly pleasant for you to go around and examine these fascinating historical locations because it is neither too hot and muggy during the day nor too chilly during the night. There are many traditional festivals, spring markets, and traditional music performances for you to enjoy, especially if you’re lucky enough to travel during Tet (the Vietnamese lunar new year).
In addition to its rich history and historic imperial architecture, Hue is renowned for its upscale regional foods, preserved royal music (Nha nhac), kind inhabitants, and numerous authentic local villages. Hue has a wide variety of cuisines, and you can’t help but notice that there are many vegetarian restaurants there. Also, one must not overlook the graves of the Nguyen monarchs’ dynasty. Perhaps the most well-known of them all for its opulent and distinctive western-eastern style is Khai Dinh’s mausoleum.
12/ Ha Long Half Day on Cruise
Recommended port: Ha Long international port
What time of year is ideal for visiting Ha Long Bay? Go when the weather is the greatest if you don’t mind the costs and crowds. With great weather and a large range of genuine cultural events, September to December and March to June are the best and busiest times to visit Ha Long.
Ha Long Bay is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Vietnam and should be on your “must-visit” travel list. It is situated in the North and offers a beautiful natural view of more than 1600 islands and several intriguing caverns.
Situated in the North, Ha Long Bay is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Vietnam and should be included to your “must-visit” travel itinerary because of the beautiful natural scenery of more than 1600 islands and several intriguing caverns.
When is the ideal time to visit Ha Long Bay, then? In any case, if you don’t mind the costs and crowds, go when the weather is at its finest! The best and busiest times to visit Ha Long are between September and December and March and June, when the weather is favorable and a wide range of genuine cultural festivals are held.
You may engage in a variety of activities at Ha Long Bay, such as kayaking through the magnificent caverns, trekking, riding residents’ bamboo boats into lagoons, and lying on the beach. We advise taking a Ha Long cruise, which would be a memorable experience, to take in the grandeur of Ha Long Bay. You may see numerous famous islets in Ha Long Bay, such as Thumb, Duck, or Cock Fighting, in under 4-5 hours on a boat. Also, they will provide you with a lavish lunch and tea break along the journey.
13/ Hanoi city tour
Recommended port: Ha Long international port
Ha Noi is not only the capital of VietNam but also a “must-visit” location while traveling to the North of this S-shaped country. It blends the antique ambience with the active modern life with a range of ancient temples and historical structures.
Ha Noi has all four seasons, which sets it apart from other Southern cities: spring, autumn, winter, and summer. So, what time of year should we visit Ha Noi? Although it is fairly hot in the summer and quite cold and dry in the winter, the finest seasons are spring (from February to April) and autumn (from October to November). Also, you will have the opportunity to attend several traditional cultural events in nearby villages if you travel around spring and autumn.
Going to this city will allow you to experience local life, meet kind locals, and stroll through 36 historic districts to discover the inner beauty of ancient homes that still seem as they did in the 19th century. You may see the Hanoi Opera House, Hoa Lo jail, and other stunning French-Vietnamese buildings and historical attractions in the city’s core. Together with its renowned architectural and historical sites, Ha Noi is renowned for its varied cuisine. Many delectable delicacies, like Pho beef noodles, Bun Cha, Banh Trang Nuong, etc., are available for a reasonable price.
14/ Exploring the antique Yen Duc village
Recommended port: Ha Long international port
Yen Duc, which can be reached in 40–1 hour by vehicle from Ha Noi and Ha Long Bay, is a popular tourist attraction nowadays for those looking to explore and learn about the customs and everyday life of the Vietnamese wet rice civilization. It is situated in the province of Quang Ninh.
The best time to visit this village would be in the middle of the year when the weather is warm, dry, and comfortable, but it would also be very busy with tourists at that time. So, I strongly advise traveling in the spring (from March to May), when the temperature is milder and there may be some spring rains, if you wish to encounter less crowding.
You may engage in a variety of amusing activities in this hamlet, such as riding bicycles about to take in the serene surroundings, visiting a local home where people weave brooms for a living, or going to the ancient home of Mr. Te to learn about the local culture and traditional architecture. Also, you may get a taste of rural life by helping out with chores like harvesting fruit from trees, baking Bánh Trôi Nc, a unique traditional sticky cake from the North, etc., or learning how to use fish tackle, a typical equipment used by Vietnamese to capture fish in ponds. You will particularly have the opportunity to take in Vietnamese traditional narratives recounted by talented local artists in an unforgettable water puppet show.
You will be astounded upon arrival at this location by the variety of Northern cuisine’s cuisine. As a result of its agricultural heritage, Yen Duc village produces a variety of vegetable-based meals, including Banana Flowers Salad, Yen Duc vegetarian spring rolls, yellow flowers sticky rice sweet soup, etc.
15/ The fishing-equipment maker in Hung Hoc village
Recommended port: Ha Long international port
Hung Hoc hamlet in Quang Yen town, Quang Ninh province is a unique and captivating site for visitors traveling to the North of Vietnam because of its long-standing practice of knitting fishing equipment from bamboo, such as tiny boats, etc.
Due to its warm and dry climate, Hung Hoc hamlet, which is just about 30 minutes by vehicle from Ha Long harbor, is wonderful to visit any time of year. You may visit without worrying about the crowds because this location is still fresh to both Vietnamese and foreign tourists.
When you approach this location, you will see the lovely, serene rural hamlet environment with homes decorated with several elegant fishing equipment and knitting studios alongside the road. And as you make your way to the home of the local artist Mr. Six, who has more than 40 years of expertise with the traditional knitting work of fishing equipment, you will learn about the history and culture of this hamlet from the local officer. Spend some time conversing with Mr. Six to learn more about this work, from the preparation to the output. Following that, you may visit nearby factories and workshops to find out more about how bamboo boats are being repaired and maintained. Also, you may go to the nearby Song Chanh food market to sample the delectable, fresh local seafood specialties.
So, now that you’ve finished our list, is it exciting? What are you still holding out for? To have your trips tailored to your interests and wishes at your preferred visiting locations, get in touch with us at Xin Chao Private Vietnam Tours. Our competent and informed local specialists will provide you with the information you want so that you have enough resources to plan your own trip at your own speed. Our top concern during the tour is to ensure your comfort and happiness.
