Vietnam Shore Excursions, Day Tours & Trips for Cruise Ship Passengers
Xin Chao!
Welcome to Vietnam
Vietnam shore excursions take cruise guests from Halong Bay to Ho Chi Minh City, offering private and flexible tours designed around your interests. From women in traditional Non La hats to lantern-lit streets, floating markets, and ancient temples, Vietnam is full of cultural charm and natural beauty. Shore Excursions Asia curates immersive Vietnam shore excursions at every port, highlighting the country’s most iconic sights like rice paddies, street food stalls, historic citadels, and peaceful pagodas.
Explore Vietnam's Rich History
Step back in time at the Imperial Citadel of Hue, Cu Chi Tunnels, and My Son Sanctuary.
Immerse in Local Culture
Experience the charm of Vietnam’s daily life from floating markets in the Mekong Delta to traditional villages in Hoi An.
Admire Stunning Architecture
See French colonial buildings in Ho Chi Minh City and historic wooden bridges and pagodas in central Vietnam.
Top Shore Excursions in Vietnam Departing from Cruise Ports
Note: Sending us your request is free and easy. Our consultants will contact you within 12 working hours.
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 10 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port
- Highlight: Vietnam War Remnants Museum, Independence Palace, Secret Weapons Bunker, Thich Quang Duc Statue
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Let us know your special requests in the inquiry form)
Halong Bay Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Halong Bay cruise, Dragon Pearl cave,"The Quest for the Dragon Pearl" show
- Best for: Cruise passengers docking overnight or pre & post cruise night in Halong.
TOP-PICKED
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 10 hours (from Sai Gon port) - 12 hours (from Phu My port)
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port or Saigon Port
- Highlights: Cu Chi Tunnels, Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Old Post Office
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 9 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port/Phu My Port
- Highlights: Thich Quang Duc Monument, War Remnants Museum, French colonial architecture, Independence Palace, Saigon Opera House, Mariamman Temple, Ben Thanh Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 10 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port/Phu My Port
- Highlights: Reunification Palace, Old Central Post Office, War Remnants Museum, Chinatown, Thien Hau Pagoda, Ben Thanh Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Shared Tour
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
$115.00 USD
Duration: 8 hours
Port:Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
Highlights: Japanese Covered Bridge, Pottery Museum, Tan Ky Old House, Cantonese congregation, Silk Street, Chinese temples and pagodas, Marble Mountain, Non Nuoc Beach, Cham Museum
Tour Date: Nov 07 2025
Cruise: Celebrity Millennium
Back-to-ship Guarantee
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Bana Mountain, French Villas, Linh Ung Pagoda, Chua Mountain, Golden Bridge
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Tien Sa Port/ Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Linh Ung Pagoda, My Khe Beach, Marble Mountains, Dragon Bridge, Cham Sculpture Museum, Han Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Nha Trang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 4-5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Nha Trang Port/ Nha Trang Port
- Highlights: Kito King Cathedral, Nha Trang's historic train station, and Dam Market.
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 9 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Marble Mountain, Non Nuoc Beach, Cham Museum, My Son Holly Land, shopping experience
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Nha Trang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 6 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Nha Trang Port/ Nha Trang Port
- Highlights: Hand Embroidery Workshop, Rice paper-making factory, Conical Hat-making house, Dam Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Thanh Ha Terra Cotta Park Museum, Hoi An Museum
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Local farm house, Chinese assembly halls, Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An Museum
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 11 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Nguyen Art Gallery, Vietnamese coffee experience, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Museum
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hue Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port/Chan May Port
- Highlights: Boat trip along Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda, Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City, Tomb of King Tu Duc
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hue Shore Excursions
- Duration: 7-8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port/ Chan May Port
- Highlights: Thanh Toan Bridge, Phu Gia Pass tunnel, Tam Giang Lagoon, Lang Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon, Bach Ma Mountain
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 10 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: French Quarter, Railway Train Tracks, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Huu Tiep Lake, West Lake, Truc Bach Lake, An Duong Market, Kumquat Farms, Long Bien Bridge
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 10 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Port
- Highlights: Hanoi Opera House, Long Bien Bridge, West Lake
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Halong Bay Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Yen Duc Cultural Village, Halong Bay Cruise, Hai Au seaplane (optional)
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 11 Hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Cam Thanh Coconut Village, Old Town, Japanese Covered Bridge, The Pottery Museum, Tan Ky old house, Cantonese Congregation, Hoi An’s Silk Street
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 11 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Cyclo tour, Train Street of Hanoi, tasting Hanoi’s iconic street food and local specialties.
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Halong Bay Shore Excursions
Amazing Halong Bay Tours with Hai Au Aviator & 4-hour Cruise
- Duration: 6 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Islet of Rocky Dog, Incense Burner, Fighting Cock, Heavenly Palace Cave, Wooden Stake Cave
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Halong Bay Shore Excursions
- Duration: 1 day
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Yen Duc Cultural Village, Experience the local life, Join in local daily activities
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Halong Bay Shore Excursions
- Duration: 1 day
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Yen Tu Pagoda - Yen Duc Cultural Village
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 2 days
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Boat trip in Halong Bay, Thien Cung – Heaven Cave, Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, Old Quarter
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Nha Trang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 7 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Nha Trang Port
- Highlights: Cai River, Coco Island, Thap Ba Hot Mineral Spring Centre
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Nha Trang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 3 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Nha Trang Port
- Highlights: Central Highlands of Vietnam, coffee farming, harvesting, making your own coffee
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 11 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Fine Art Museum, the Temple of Literature, Nguyen Art Gallery
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hai Phong Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Hai Phong Port
- Highlights: Post Office, Opera House, Great Church, Du Hang Pagoda, Vinh Bao Cultural Village
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Phu Quoc Shore Excursions
- Duration: 4 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu Quoc Port
- Highlights: Learn how to catch squid in traditional method
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Vung Tau Shore Excursions
- Duration: 11 hours (from Hiep Phuoc port) - 9 hours (from Phu My port)
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port or Hiep Phuoc Port
- Highlights: Nui Dat Task Force Base, Nui Dat Kindergarten, Long Tan Cross Memorial
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Phu Quoc Shore Excursions
- Duration: 1 Day
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu Quoc Cruise Port
- Highlights: Phu Quoc Prison - Bai Sao Beach - Sim Wine factory -Pepper farm
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Phu Quoc Shore Excursions
- Duration: 1 day
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu Quoc Port
- Highlights: Khu Tuong Eco Farm
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Phu Quoc Shore Excursions
- Duration: 1 day
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu Quoc Port
- Highlights: Fish Sauce Factory - Pepper Farm - Nguyen Trung Truc Temple - Ganh Dau Cape - Cua Can River
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Vung Tau Shore Excursions
- Duration: 11 hours (from Hiep Phuoc port) - 8 hours (from Phu My port)
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port or Hiep Phuoc Port
- Highlights: Nui Nho (Nho Mount), Niet Ban Tinh Xa (Nirvana Pagoda), Whale Temple, Vung Tau Lighthouse
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Nha Trang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Nha Trang Port
- Highlights: Beach Boulevard of Tran Phu, Thap Ba Hot Mineral Spring Centre, Dam market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Nha Trang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 6.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Nha Trang Port
- Highlights: Cham Po Nagar Tower, River cruise, Tropical fruit tasting, Handicraft workshops, Village markets
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 12 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Dong Ngac Cultural village - Temple of Literature - Hoa Lo Prison Museum
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Duration: 12.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison Museum, Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, Bat Trang Ceramic Village
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8-9 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: Cooking class, Hoi An city tour
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Halong Bay Shore Excursions
- Duration: 1 day
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Halong International Cruise Port
- Highlights: Quang Ninh Museum, Yen Duc Cultural Village, Canh Huong Pagoda, Traditional Quan Ho Folk Song Performance
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hue Shore Excursions
- Duration: 9 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port/Chan May Port
- Highlights: Dong Ba market, Royal Tomb of Emperor Tu Duc, Boat trip upstream Perfume River, Thien Mu Pagoda, Traditional Music Show
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hue Shore Excursions
- Duration: 9.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port/Chan May Port
- Highlights: Cyclo tour, Dong Ba Market, boat trip on Perfume River, cooking lesson, Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City, unique garden house in Hue
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hue Shore Excursions
- Duration: 7.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port/Chan May Port
- Highlights: Phuoc Tich Village, boat trip along O Lau River, Imperial Citadel and Forbidden City
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8-9 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Chan May Port or Tien Sa Port
- Highlights: biking through the village, Hoi An Eco-tour, Vietnamese bamboo basket boat, Tra Que Village
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Shared Tour
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
$115.00 USD
Duration:7 hours (from Sai Gon Port) - 10 hours (from Phu My Port)
Port:Phu My Port (or Saigon Port)
Highlights: Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Old Post Office, China Town, Ben Thanh market
Tour Date: Nov 09 2025
Cruise: Celebrity Millennium
Back-to-ship Guarantee
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 8.5 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port/Phu My Port
- Highlights: Hoa Tuc Cooking Class - Notre Dame Cathedral - Ho Chi Minh City Central Post Office - Ben Thanh Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 6 hours (from Sai Gon port) - 9 hours (from Phu My port)
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port or Saigon Port
- Highlights: Lacquerware shop, XQ showroom, Sai Gon Square, Vincom Center, Ben Thanh Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: Approx. 11 hours
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port/Phu My Port
- Highlights: Explore the jungle and traps in Cu Chi Tunnels, Real guns shooting.
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Duration: 7 hours (from Sai Gon port) - 10 hours (from Phu My port)
- Pick-up/Drop-off: Phu My Port or Saigon Port
- Highlights: Vespa tour in Ho Chi Minh City including Tao Dan Park, Ong Bon pagoda & Nhi Phu Temple, General Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, Ben Thanh Market
- Tour Customizable: Absolutely! (Tell us your specific requirements in the inquiry form)
How to Choose the Best Vietnam Shore Excursions
Vietnam shore excursions offer cruise travelers the chance to explore a country rich in culture, history, and landscapes. From the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay to the lively streets of Ho Chi Minh City, these tours are carefully planned to suit your cruise schedule and personal preferences.
1. Check the Port Distance
Major Vietnam cruise excursions start from ports like Phu My, Halong, Chan May, or Da Nang. All tours are timed to match cruise schedules.
2. Match Tours to Your Interests
Vietnam shore excursions can be tailored to match what you enjoy most:
- City Highlights: Iconic sites like Reunification Palace and Ben Thanh Market.
- Culture: Explore Hue’s Imperial Citadel or join lantern making in Hoi An.
- Nature: Halong Bay cruises or countryside views in Central Vietnam.
- Cuisine & Crafts: Local dishes, cooking classes, and artisan markets.
Consider Mobility and Comfort
Some tours involve stairs or longer walks. Many Vietnam shore excursions offer air-conditioned transport, flexible pacing, and senior-friendly support.
Must-Try Local Dishes on Vietnam Shore Excursions
Vietnam shore excursions offer more than beautiful landscapes and historical sites. They also open the door to a rich and flavorful cuisine. From vibrant cities to quiet coastal towns, every stop on your Vietnam cruise excursion brings a chance to enjoy iconic local dishes that reflect the country’s diverse food culture.
Phở (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)
Bánh mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
Bún chả (Grilled Pork with Noodles)
Gỏi cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Bánh xèo (Crispy Vietnamese Pancake)
Cơm tấm (Broken Rice with Grilled Pork)
Phở (Vietnamese Beef Noodle Soup)
Often served during shore excursions in Vietnam’s major cities, phở is a flavorful bowl of rice noodles, tender beef, and fragrant broth. It reflects the warmth and comfort of Vietnamese cooking.
Bánh mì (Vietnamese Baguette Sandwich)
Available across most stops on Vietnam shore excursions, bánh mì is a crisp baguette filled with grilled meat, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. This convenient street food favorite blends Vietnamese ingredients with French inspiration.
Bún chả (Grilled Pork with Vermicelli)
Commonly featured in northern Vietnam excursions, bún chả is a local favorite that pairs grilled pork with vermicelli noodles, fresh herbs, and a light dipping sauce.
Gỏi cuốn (Fresh Spring Rolls)
These soft rolls are filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli. They are often introduced during Vietnam cruise excursions as a refreshing and healthy option that reflects the country’s balanced flavors.
Bánh xèo (Crispy Vietnamese Pancake)
Golden and savory, bánh xèo is filled with pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. It is especially popular on shore excursions in southern Vietnam, where guests explore local markets and try regional specialties.
Cơm tấm (Broken Rice with Grilled Pork)
A signature dish in Ho Chi Minh City, cơm tấm includes grilled pork chop, broken rice, pickled vegetables, and a fried egg. This hearty meal is a staple of daily life in southern Vietnam.
Many Vietnam shore excursions also include the chance to try other beloved dishes such as cao lầu (Hoi An-style noodles), bún bò Huế (spicy beef noodle soup), chả giò (fried spring rolls), and chè (Vietnamese sweet dessert soups), each reflecting the flavors of a different region.
Highlights of Vietnam Shore Excursions
Vietnam shore excursions reveal the country’s vibrant contrasts through its cities, temples, markets, and coastal towns. From historic landmarks to everyday life, each port offers meaningful experiences for cruise travelers. These well-organized day trips are designed to be efficient, comfortable, and rich in cultural insight.
Architectural Icons That Tell a Story
Step inside the past at the Reunification Palace or admire Notre Dame Cathedral’s quiet elegance. These buildings reflect Vietnam’s layered identity and colonial heritage.
Sacred Spaces and Cultural Quarters
Wander through lantern-lit temples and market alleys in old Chinese quarters. The scent of incense and rhythm of trade offer a window into local tradition.
Hidden Streets and Local Encounters
Hop on a vintage Vespa or open-air jeep to explore tucked-away cafés, leafy boulevards, and quiet backstreets. These immersive rides bring you closer to real Vietnam.
Why Choose Our Vietnam Shore Excursions?
Vietnam shore excursions are thoughtfully designed for cruise travelers seeking a balance of culture, comfort, and local discovery. With expert local guides, relaxed pacing, and seamless itineraries, each day ashore reveals a different side of Vietnam. From elegant architecture to ancient temples, bustling markets, and flavorful street food, our Vietnam cruise excursions turn every stop into a meaningful and enjoyable experience.
Personal travel consultant
Easy-paced experiences
Private & small group tours
Full support at your port call
What to Expect on Our Vietnam Shore Excursions
- Itineraries are tailored to match your interests, cruise timing, and preferred activity level
- Round-trip transfers from the port ensure a seamless start and end to your day
- Small-group formats offer a more personal and relaxed way to explore
- Knowledgeable local guides bring cultural landmarks and hidden stories to life across Vietnam
More Than Just Sightseeing
- Discover signature sites like the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market
- Walk through Cholon to visit historic temples such as Thien Hau Pagoda
- Taste regional flavors at local eateries and traditional food markets along your vietnam cruise excursions
- Dive deeper into culture with Vespa or jeep rides, live music, or craft-making experiences that reflect everyday Vietnam
Best Time to Visit Vietnam
Each season in Vietnam brings its own charm, making Vietnam shore excursions enjoyable year-round. Spring offers blossoms in the north, summer brings vibrant countryside scenes, autumn showcases golden rice fields, and winter delivers festive charm with mild weather.
Though short rains may occur in central and southern regions during summer, Vietnam cruise excursions are thoughtfully planned for comfort. Local guides and flexible itineraries ensure smooth travel in every season. No matter the month, there is always something unique to explore in Vietnam.
Vietnam Weather by Region and Season
Vietnam shore excursions take cruise travelers through a country with diverse climates. North to south, weather patterns shift noticeably, so the experience you have can vary depending on the season and the port you visit.
Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay)
The north has four distinct seasons. Spring (February to April) is mild and humid, with blooming flowers and fresh air. Summer (May to August) is hot and rainy, ideal for lush green landscapes but includes afternoon showers. Autumn (September to November) offers cooler air and clear skies, making it one of the most recommended periods for shore excursions in Halong Bay. Winter (December to January) can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to 10–15°C.
Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hue, Hoi An)
Central Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate. From January to August, the weather is generally warm and dry, especially in Da Nang and Hoi An. Rainfall increases from September to December, and typhoons can affect the region in late summer and early autumn. Many Vietnam cruise excursions in this area are planned to avoid the heaviest rains, while still capturing the charm of ancient towns and cultural sites.
Southern Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)
This region has two main seasons. The dry season lasts from December to April, offering sunny skies and ideal conditions for outdoor activities. The rainy season runs from May to November, with short tropical showers mostly in the afternoon. Mornings remain bright, and many shore excursions Vietnam-wide continue as planned during this time with minor adjustments.
Best Places to Visit on Vietnam Shore Excursions
Explore the beauty, history, and cultural depth of Vietnam through expertly crafted shore excursions tailored for cruise passengers. From the timeless streets of Hanoi to the limestone seascapes of Halong Bay and the imperial legacy of Hue, each tour in our Vietnam shore excursions collection is thoughtfully designed to maximize your time ashore. Travelers can enjoy smooth logistics, engaging local insights, and memorable highlights without the stress of independent planning.
Hanoi
Halong Bay
Hue
Hoi An
Ho Chi Minh City
Hanoi - Where Ancient Temples Meet French Boulevard
Hanoi is a highlight of Vietnam shore excursions, offering a vibrant mix of culture and history. Stroll through the Old Quarter, enjoy dishes like pho and bun cha, and visit landmarks such as the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Discover Hanoi’s charm and hospitality in every moment.
Halong Bay - Sail Through Vietnam’s Dreamscape of Limestone Peaks
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is a must-see on any Vietnam shore excursion. Cruise through emerald waters, kayak among limestone islands, and explore caves like Sung Sot. Enjoy local seafood and peaceful floating villages while taking in the bay’s stunning natural beauty.
Hue - Step Into the Royal Past of Vietnam’s Imperial Capital
For history lovers, Hue is a top destination on Vietnam shore excursions. Explore the Imperial Citadel, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs along the Perfume River. Beyond its heritage, Hue delights with local dishes like bun bo Hue and banh beo, offering a taste of the city’s rich culinary culture.
Hoi An - A Riverside Tapestry of Lanterns, Flavors, and Ancient Charm
Discover the essence of Vietnam excursions in Hoi An with a day tour that blends culinary delights and cultural landmarks. Start with a hands-on cooking class using fresh local ingredients, then explore highlights like the Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky Ancient House, and Cantonese Congregation Hall.
Ho Chi Minh City - Discover the Pulse of Modern Vietnam
Experience the best of shore excursions Vietnam in Ho Chi Minh City. Visit the Notre Dame Cathedral, Old Post Office, Ben Thanh Market, and Cu Chi Tunnels. Explore the War Remnants Museum and Thien Hau Pagoda to discover the city’s vibrant culture and history.
Explore Vietnam’s Most Popular Ports for Shore Excursions
Halong Port
Tien Sa Port
Chan May Port
Phu My Port
Each port along Vietnam’s coastline reveals a distinct aspect of the country’s cultural and natural richness. Halong Bay enchants cruise passengers with its dramatic limestone islets, peaceful waters, and fresh seafood tastings. In central Vietnam, Tien Sa and Chan May ports lead to lantern-lit streets, ancient temples, and imperial palaces in destinations like Hoi An and Hue.
Southern highlights begin at Phu My Port, the perfect starting point for exploring Ho Chi Minh City. Iconic French architecture, bustling local markets, and flavorful street food await those who seek both energy and elegance in their day ashore.
Vietnam shore excursions are thoughtfully crafted to fit cruise schedules while offering authentic local insight, comfortable transport, and memorable experiences at every stop.
Essential Tips for Vietnam Shore Excursions
Before heading ashore, here are a few essentials to help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable Vietnam shore excursion.
- Population: 90.5 million
- Capital: Hanoi
- Currency: VND
- Language: Vietnamese
Passport and Visa
To enter Vietnam, ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date. It's a good idea to keep a photocopy and digital scan in your email for safekeeping. While some countries are exempt from visa requirements for stays ranging from 14 to 90 days, others can apply for an e-visa valid for 30 days. For passengers on Vietnam shore excursions, day trips may be possible without a visa.
Transportation
Getting around in Vietnam may seem overwhelming at first, but with time, it becomes easier. Follow the locals and traffic signals when crossing streets. Stay confident, find a gap, and the flow of traffic will adapt. Taxis are common in large cities, but it's best to agree on the fare beforehand. For a more scenic and relaxed journey, consider using a cyclo in cities like Hanoi, Hoian, Da Nang, and Nha Trang, ideal for travelers enjoying Vietnam shore excursions.
Postal, Phones & Internet Service
Vietnam’s postal services are reliable, and you can send postcards through the post office or hotel staff rather than letterboxes. To save on international calls, consider purchasing a local Vietnamese SIM card after unlocking your phone. Internet access is widely available in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and malls, especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, ensuring you stay connected throughout your shore excursions in Vietnam.
FAQs About Vietnam Shore Excursions
Vietnam shore excursions offer cruise travelers the opportunity to explore cultural highlights, scenic landscapes, and local life across different regions of the country, even within a limited port stop. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions to help you plan a smooth, enriching, and well-paced day trip during your time ashore.
Are your Vietnam shore excursions timed to match cruise ship schedules?
Yes. All our Vietnam shore excursions are specifically designed for cruise passengers, with pick-up and return times carefully aligned to your ship’s arrival and departure. You’ll return to the port with plenty of time to spare.
Do you offer private tours or only group shore excursions?
We offer both. You can choose a private Vietnam shore excursion for a fully personalized experience, or join a small group for a more social and affordable option. Both are led by licensed, local guides who speak excellent English.
What ports in Vietnam do you serve?
We offer Vietnam shore excursions from all major cruise ports, covering both cultural highlights and natural wonders across the country. You can explore:
- Halong Bay Shore Excursions
- Hanoi Shore Excursions
- Hue Shore Excursions (via Chan May Port)
- Hoi An & Da Nang Shore Excursions (via Tien Sa Port)
- Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions (via Phu My Port)
Each port comes with curated day tours tailored for cruise guests, offering a safe, authentic, and enriching Vietnam experience.
Are shore excursions in Vietnam suitable for older travelers?
Absolutely. Most of our shore tours in Vietnam are designed with comfort and accessibility in mind. We offer gentle walking tours, air-conditioned transport, and flexible itineraries, especially suitable for senior guests from cruise lines like Holland America Line or Oceania.
What makes your Vietnam shore excursions different from the ones offered by cruise ships?
We specialize in small-group or private shore tours with local guides who know the region deeply. Compared to cruise-line tours, our excursions often offer more flexibility, better value, and a more authentic cultural experience.
Is it safe to join a shore excursion in Vietnam with a local tour operator?
Yes. All of our Vietnam shore excursions are professionally organized with cruise passengers in mind. We monitor your ship’s schedule in real time and guarantee on-time return to port. With over 18 years of experience serving cruise passengers, our team is known for reliability, clear communication, and thoughtful service.
Ready to Plan Your Vietnam Shore Excursion?
Let us help you choose the perfect Vietnam shore excursion for your cruise stop. From the limestone seascapes of Halong Bay to the imperial sites of Hue and the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, our expert-led tours are designed to match your cruise schedule and highlight the best of each region.
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