Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions, Day Trips & Tours from Phu My Cruise Port

A must-visit attraction during Ho Chi Minh City shore excursions is Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, which remains almost exactly as it was in 1966 and served as the official residence of the president of South Vietnam during the war. On the morning of April 30, 1975, North Vietnamese forces broke through the palace gates with their tanks, leading to Saigon's surrender. Situated in District One, try to fit in a visit before the gates close at 4 p.m. You'll need at least an hour to leisurely explore the lavish state rooms. Alternatively, you can join one of the free guided tours, which run every 15 minutes.

The War Remnants Museum requires a few hours and a clear mind, so it's best to plan your visit for the next morning. This extensive exhibition offers a grim account of the brutal conflict. Originally called 'The Museum of Chinese and American War Crimes,' it presents a highly subjective view and doesn’t shy away from the horrors. The museum features notorious 'tiger cage' prison cells, bamboo torture devices, and disturbing images of chemical weapon victims, spread across multiple floors. It’s undoubtedly intense, but a must-see in Ho Chi Minh City for those who wish to grasp the immense suffering endured by the Vietnamese.

During the American War, the villages in the Cu Chi district were home to a significant Viet Cong presence. In response to American efforts to neutralize them, they literally dug their way to safety, resulting in the famous Cu Chi tunnels. Today, visitors can explore a small section of the tunnels, crawling on their hands and knees to experience life as a tunnel-dwelling resistance fighter. While some areas have been enlarged for Western visitors, the tunnels remain dark, humid, and claustrophobic, so it's advisable to proceed only if you’re comfortable in tight spaces. Phu My shore excursions often include a visit to these historic sites, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in this unique experience. There are two sites where the tunnels can be visited: Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc, which is 15 km further, although most tourists are taken to Ben Dinh.

Located beneath a pillbox-style clock tower, Ben Thanh Market has been the city’s busiest and most significant market for nearly a century. Inside, a tightly packed grid of aisles, organized by product type, buzzes with activity. If you’re hunting for souvenirs, you’ll find conical hats, basket ware, bags, shoes, lacquerware, Dalat coffee, and "Good Morning Vietnam" T-shirts on display. Venture to the wet market at the back, where you’ll encounter buckets of eels, bundles of live frogs tied at the legs, piles of pigs’ ears and snouts, and baskets crammed with hens, among other startling sights. In the evenings, seafood stalls line the sides of the market, drawing both locals and tourists with their fresh offerings. Many travelers on Phu My shore excursions make it a point to visit Ben Thanh Market, ensuring they experience the vibrant hustle and bustle that defines this iconic hub of commerce and culture.

Street food may not appeal to everyone, but for those willing to give it a try, it's one of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh City shore excursions. The food is often tastier than what's served in restaurants, it's much cheaper, and the experience is more exciting. Just be selective—choose spots with high customer turnover and visibly fresh ingredients. Ho Chi Minh City's food scene is vibrant, and if you're feeling adventurous, consider joining a motorbike street food tour to sample the city's top dishes, from Banh Mi to Banh Xeo. Most visitors dine in two main areas: the city center, known for its variety of quality spots, and the budget-friendly district around De Tham, Pham Ngu Lao, and Bui Vien.

A few kilometers off Highway 22 in Long Hoa, the Cao Dai Temple stands as a colorful and unique site. Described by Graham Greene as a "Walt Disney fantasia of the East," its bright dragons, snakes, and Day-Glo hues make a striking impression. Despite its ornate decor, the temple avoids tackiness. Two pagoda-like towers frame the front, topped by a balcony and the Divine Eye—a recurring symbol seen throughout, similar to the one on the American dollar bill.

A river cruise is a must-do experience in Ho Chi Minh City, offering stunning views of the skyline and bustling riverbanks. These cruises come in various lengths, from quick daytime jaunts to relaxing evening dinner excursions, perfect for soaking in the city's charm. As you glide along the Saigon River, you'll encounter notable landmarks like Saigon Harbour, Nha Rong Wharf, and Thu Thiem Bridge. Ho Chi Minh City day tours provide an excellent opportunity for travelers to unwind while discovering the city’s beauty and vibrant life from a unique vantage point.