Vietnam Shore Excursion: What You Need to Know
From exploring the dynamic streets in big cities to cruising peacefully along the shaded canals in the countryside, Vietnam shore excursion offers authentic experiences and unforgettable moments that you may cherish for years. But how to choose the best shore excursions in Vietnam that match your interests and budget? What to expect from the cities your ship visits? Prior research guarantees a worry-free shore excursion, and you can avoid frustrating situations on shore.
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An overview of Vietnam shore excursion
Vietnam is becoming one of the most popular countries to visit in Asia, and if you want to plan your next shore excursion in Vietnam, it’s recommended to learn some useful tips beforehand, from visa requirements to the best means of transport. But first, brush up on some knowledge you need to know about a shore excursion itself.
1. What is a shore excursion?
Shore excursions are pre-booked activities and experiences that you engage during your port visits. When your cruise ship docks at a port of call, you can make the most of your time on land with a short day tour from your port or an overnight tour (with accommodation on your cruise ship or on land).
There are two ways cruise passengers can book shore excursions: through the cruise line or with independent tour operators. The options are countless. Either you love to marvel at the architecture, savour local cuisine or delve into local history, there are tons of things to experience on your shore excursion. Here are five of the most sought-after types of shore excursions that you might be interested in.
• Traditional sightseeing tours
With a sightseeing tour, you can fully admire the beauty of the destinations your ship visits. If you are a first-time cruiser, it’s a smart choice to consider. You can book a walking tour or a private city tour that includes the city’s key landmarks.
• Thrilling water sports shore excursions
For those who are intrigued by fun-filled water sports, opt for a shore excursion that allows you to have fun with gleaming water and refreshing breezes. Research your next port of call and there’s a good chance you can enjoy a variety of water sports on offer, such as scuba diving, kayaking or snorkelling.
• Relaxing eating and drinking excursions
The food scene can tell a lot about the place you visit. Having someone expert to guide you where to go and which dishes to try will save you time. Whether it’s a Michelin-starred restaurant or a casual street food stall, every taste makes for an unforgettable epicurean journey.
• Authentic cultural tours
Cultural tours allow you to have a better understanding of the city or the country, in terms of history, arts, beliefs, religions, and many more. People eager to learn, explore, and study memorials, folklore or local traditions can go on these shore excursions. It’s not only about taking photos but also about delving into the cultural heritage and helping in preserving traditional values.
• One-of-a-kind wildlife tours
There’s no way better than a wildlife tour to get an up-close view of all types of flora and fauna, from exotic plants to rare birds. You can take a boat ride to admire the natural beauty along the river banks or enjoy a forest walk while listening to stories behind each species you encounter.
⋙ See more on 3-Day Mekong Delta Tour
2. How to choose a good shore excursion?
The efficiency of tour operators creates a seemless shore excursion. You don’t want your journey to translate into crowded bus rides with drop-offs at shopping centre. So, what factor should be taken in account when choosing a shore excursion?
• Full vs Half-Day Shore Excursions
We couldn’t stress enough how important it is to understand the schedule of your cruise ship. You can start planning the activities based on that time frame, including port pick-up and drop-off. Choose a full-day tour to maximise your time at each port or a half-day tour that focuses on one specific area with some more free time to explore the port at your own pace.
• Guided vs Free Time
Guided shore excursions are extremely popular. You will travel privately or in a shared group with pre-arranged transportation and a tour guide. According to the flexibility of the tour, you can decide your preferred destinations or follow a fixed itinerary. You don’t always need to book a guided tour. If your transit time is short or the places of interest are within a short walking distance, you can see around by yourself.
• Highlights vs In-Depth
Shore excursions vary in length, ranging from a few hours to a full day or two days with an overnight stay. While the highlight tours allow you to see as many tourist attractions as possible, the in-depth ones provide an insightful understanding of a specific place.
3. What to consider when booking a shore excursion in Vietnam?
Blessed with natural wonders, Vietnam is a great option to consider for your next shore excursion. The diverse landscape from the south to the north comes with unique traditions and cuisine that guarantee lively shore excursions. Consider a few pointers to help you avoid frustration when disembark in any cities of Vietnam.
• Your fitness level: Most shore excursions cater to all types of travellers, and don’t require a specific level of fitness. However, if you’re seniors, slow walkers or anyone with mobility issues, it’s important to get in touch with the tour operator for the most suitable arrangements, for example a wheelchair or a special meal.
• Transportation: Research in advance whether your shore excursion includes port pick-up and drop-off service or not. Why is this important? You don’t want to waste your time for navigating the port and finding ways to get around. Most major ports of call in Vietnam are located far away from the city centre, and it’s easy to get lost without pre-booked transportation services.
• Travel season: To fully enjoy the best of Vietnam, it’s vital to pick the right time as the weather may make a big difference to your travel experiences. Though you can visit Vietnam all year round, your shore excursion during the rainy season may not up to your expectation. For example, cruises in Halong Bay may be unexpectedly cancelled due to bad weather. In addition, while incessant rainfalls are not unusual in Hue or Da Nang, extreme floods may hinder some activities.
⋙ See more on A Traveller’s Guide to Weather and Climate in Vietnam
• LGBT+ travelers: As any other travellers, LGBT+ cruisers have their own specific needs, but being a minority traveller in Vietnam can be both exciting and intimidating. LGBT+ travellers may familiarise themselves more easily in big cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. However, in some other destinations, it can be quite more challenging to immerse yourself in the local community.
⋙ See more on LGBT+ Guided Tours | On Tour with Locals
Packing list for Vietnam shore excursion
If you are new to cruising, packing for your comfort is a rule of thumb. There are a few special considerations – onboard dress codes, temperature variations between ports of call, and what kind of shore excursions you are going to join. Bear in mind that you are visiting a country where heat and humidity dominate. So, make sure to pack lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that make you feel comfortable and get ready to transition from fun-in-the-sun beach outfits to ones for a rainy-day city walking tour.
1. Documents
Passport and visa are the things to remind yourself first if you don’t want to get in trouble at the port and waste time struggling with port procedures. Check if you need a visa to enter Vietnam or not, and what type of visa you will need. Make sure you have copies of important documentation as backup.
2. Technology items
Your phone is definitely a top item in your packing list, and you should also bring along your charger and powerbank as it won’t be easy to find a free charging station in the middle of your trip. Don’t forget a proper camera (with lens, memory cards, etc.) as you will have endless opportunities at each port of call.
3. Clothes
You can wear as freely as you can on your shore excursions in Vietnam. You don’t need to change your fashion style, but make sure to adapt your outfits to the weather in Vietnam, and the specific region you are going to visit.
For example, wear simple T-shirt with lightweight, breathable fabrics to stay cool in nug tunnels, and dark colours to avoid stains from the dirt. An important dress code to keep in mind is that always dress properly when you visit religious sites. A sarong to cover your shoulders or your legs can be of great help.
4. Toiletries and medications
Your carry-on bag should contain essential toiletries and a first-aid kit for your shore excursions in Vietnam. If you take prescription medicine, remember to bring enough for the day tour and a few extra days. It will be a mistake to return to your cruise ship to take the medicine, and it will be very difficult to buy the same brand or dosage at local pharmacies.
In addition, it’s highly recommended to pack hand sanitiser (gel or wipes), sun cream, lip balm (with SPF protection), and insect repellent. These items are likely to save you from unpleasant conditions at the places you will visit.
Best Vietnam shore excursions
Vietnam encompasses stunning scenery and diverse culture, making it a must-visit destination for your next shore excursion. If your cruise ship docks at Vietnam’s major ports, don’t take it for granted. You can make the most of your time on shore exploring key landmarks and learning interesting things about the city.
Depending on the exact port of call your cruise ship visit, you can get around the city or make your way to the nearby regions if your time allows. Here are the best Vietnam shore excursions that we have compiled.
Hanoi shore excursions
Among many Vietnam shore excursions, Hanoi – the capital city of Vietnam is bursting at the seams with historical buildings, ancient monuments, and world-class cuisine. Hanoi boasts many heritage sites that reflect its thousand-year-old history, such as the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison or Hanoi Opera House. Visiting Hanoi is like time travel that lets you connect with the past’s values while living in the modern present.
Another reason that gives Hanoi a bonus point for your next shore excursion – its colourful food scene. The northern-style street food has captured the hearts of many visitors with its rich flavours and casual dining style, allowing you to have a full meal sitting on a plastic stool on the sidewalk.
☛ Available from: Ha Long Port | Hai Phong Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Culture | Food Tours
Explore the Hanoi Capital – Shore Excursion | Explore the Capital City of Hanoi – Small Group Shore Excursion
Halong Bay shore excursions
Whether you are a first-time traveller or a return traveller, Halong Bay deserves a place on your must-see list. The bay, famed for its emerald waters and over 1,600 limestone islands, has been listed as a World Heritage Site since 1994. These islands include limestone caves with limestone statues and carvings magically created by Mother Nature.
You can take in the postcard-like view of the bay on a wooden junk or cruise. While some love the traditional cruising experience by simply admiring the incredible views on board, others find more thrills kayaking to explore hidden lagoons. Visiting Halong Bay is not all about cave exploration, you will also be impressed by tempting seafood dishes and interesting fishing practices.
Here are the top places to visit in Halong Bay:
- Sung Sot Cave
- Thien Cung Cave
- Luon Cave
- Ti Top Island
- Cua Van Fishing Village
- Viet Hai Fishing Village
As an extension to the remarkable Halong Bay, your shore excursions can be made to visit a lesser-crowded spot, like Lan Ha Bay or Bai Tu Long Bay. You can enjoy the breathtaking view of natural surroundings, remote beaches, and islands for a closer connection with nature.
☛ Available from: Ha Long Port | Hai Phong Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Water sports
Halong Bay Cruise: Shore Excursion | Explore the Capital City of Hanoi – Small Group
Hue shore excursions
Set in from the coast on the poetic Perfume River, the former imperial capital of Vietnam is an ideal place to dig through the layers of history. Being not only the political centre, Hue was the country’s cultural and religious heart, and the Complex of Hue Monuments has made its way onto the UNESCO World Heritage list. Walking through the different areas of the Imperial Citadel is like walking through a textbook, where you feel how history comes to life.
Your Hue shore excursions would be incomplete without a visit to the royal tombs. These are not simply the resting places for the kings but also architectural wonders that represent the era’s solemn and significance. In addition to historic attractions, Hue showcases its charm through a variety of spots, such as Thien Mu Pagoda, Thuy Xuan Incense-Making Village, Truong Tien Bridge, Dong Ba Market, etc. Each place has a story to tell about the city’s past values and modern touches.
Activities you can try on shore:
- Scenic river cruises
- Cycling tour
- Hue countryside motorbike tour
☛ Available from: Chan May Port | Tien Sa Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Culture
Hue Private Day Tour – Shore Excursion | Hue Highlights Small Group Tour – Shore Excursion
Da Nang and Hoi An shore excursions
Besides Hue as a prime destination for Chan May Vietnam shore excursion, you may find shore excursions in Da Nang and Hoi An an attractive alternative. Famed for its renowned Golden Bridge on Ba Na Hills, the dynamic energy of Da Nang in addition to its well-planned city centre earns it a place among the most worth-living cities in Vietnam. Just a 45-minute drive away, Hoi An is where time seems to slow down amidst ancient architecture and tranquil atmosphere.
If your cruise ship docks at Chan May Port in Hue, you can take a scenic coastal drive through Hai Van Pass, a natural border between Hue and Da Nang. It is certain that Da Nang is also a place for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts where you can catch the sea vibes at My Khe, one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches.
☛ Available from: Chan May Port | Tien Sa Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Culture | Food Tours | Water Sports
Da Nang & Hoi An Private Day Tour – Shore Excursion | Da Nang & Hoi An Small Group Tour – Shore Excursion
Ho Chi Minh City – Vietnam shore excursion
Ho Chi Minh City or as locals still like to call it – Saigon, has a reputation for incredible hustle and bustle. With 25 times more motorbikes than cars, the city is filled with all sorts of noises and constant traffic flow. Put any big city fears aside, you will have an unforgettable shore excursion in this lovely city.
With countless high-rise buildings being built and avenues litting up in the night, Ho Chi Minh City has always been a leading example for the huge developments taking place in Vietnam over the years. While modernity finds its way to dominate every corner, a wave of nostalgia still lingers in the elegant French-colonial architecture – the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, the Opera House, to name just a few.
Look for something different from the city vibes? Make your way to a wet market where you can see how locals trade almost everything, from fresh local produce, prepared foods, and clothes to souvenirs. Tired of walking? Hope on a cyclo for a one-of-a-kind ride around the city, racing against other motorbikes on the streets. Want to try a new street food style? A food walking tour is an amazing introduction to the city’s food haven. Ho Chi Minh City always has something for everyone.
☛ Available from: Nha Rong Port | Hiep Phuoc Port | Phu Huu Port | Phu My Port
☛ Best types of Ho Chi Minh City shore excursions: Sightseeing | Culture | Food Tours
Ho Chi Minh City Private Tour – Shore Excursion | Private Cu Chi Tunnels and HCMC Highlights – Shore Excursion
Mekong Delta shore excursions
Escape from the rush of the crowded city, you can opt for authentic experiences in the Mekong Delta – the ‘rice bowl of Vietnam.’ Mekong Delta shore excursions let you capture typical moments of local’s life revolving around the rivers. To help you better imagine, it’s like Ben Thanh Market, but on the river.
In addition to a vast network of canals and rivers crisscrossing each other, the Mekong Delta comprises a variety of nature reserves, ancient houses, floating markets, and tropical orchards. You will find it impossible to visit the Mekong Delta without a boat ride. Whether it is along the narrow coconut-lined canals or in a nature reserve, you can learn a lot about the natural world up-close. If you are interested in rare species, start researching Tra Su Cajuput Forest, Tram Chim National Park, or Dong Tam Snake Farm.
An important part of the Mekong Delta is delving into local customs reflecting in the rural way of life, family-owned handicraft workshops, and the traditional art form of Don Ca Tai Tu (Southern Amateur Music). With a short shore excursion in the Mekong Delta, you can witness a slower pace of life while having more interactions with local people.
☛ Available from: Nha Rong Port | Hiep Phuoc Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Culture | Wildlife
Mekong Delta Private Tour – Shore Excursion | Mekong Delta Small Group Tour – Shore Excursion
Vung Tau shore excursions
If your cruise ship docks at Phu My Port, Vung Tau is the nearest beach city and the best alternative to the bustling Ho Chi Minh City. Easily drawn to its pristine beaches, cultural heritage, and delicious seafood, visitors will find a lot of fun with the Vung Tau shore excursions from Phu My Port. It’s not only about the gorgeous extensive beaches, Vung Tau is the place to consider when you look for solitary self-reflection and connection with nature on Vietnam shore excursions.
Simply stroll along the beach and take a deep breath of fresh air, you will find peaceful moments for your soul with this beach retreat. Although not as famous as many historical buildings in Ho Chi Minh City, the ones in Vung Tau cannot be underestimated. You can climb Mount Tao Phung to reach Christ the King Statue for a panoramic view of the city or travel back in time by visiting the historic White Palace with an impressive collection of carefully preserved antiques.
☛ Available from: Phu My Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Water Sports
Best of Vung Tau Private Tour – Shore Excursion | Best of Vung Tau Small Group Tour – Shore Excursion
Phu Quoc shore excursions
Phu Quoc has been one of the top destinations in Vietnam shore excursions, loved by travellers across the world for many reasons. First and foremost, its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for sunrise and sunset views, are undoubtedly favoured by beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts. The white sands and coconut palms also serve as a terrific background for photographs.
Compared to other tropical islands in Southeast Asia like Phuket, Boracay or Bali, Phu Quoc still has some work to do to catch up with its peers, but this ‘pearl island’ will never let you down. While Phu Quoc is often seen as a beach destination, it also features fascinating historical landmarks and a vibrant culinary scene waiting to be explored. History buffs can hardly miss a visit to the Coconut Tree Prison, a real ‘hell on Earth’ used to imprison soldiers during the war. If museums are not your favourite theme, opt for local farms and factories where you can witness the production process of local specialities, including pepper, fish sauce, pearls, sim (rose myrtle fruit) wine, etc.
☛ Available from: Phu Quoc Port
☛ Best types of shore excursions: Sightseeing | Water Sports
Full-Day Phu Quoc Island Discovery
Vietnam shore excursion, seamlessly organised by a trusted operator, from transportation to meals to experiences to local guide — everything that is carefully planned will bring you the best travel experiences. If you are still not certain about how to make the most of your time at each port of call, don’t hesitate to contact us for advice from our travel experts.