Vietnam Shore Excursions
Top Tours & Day Trips for Cruise Passengers
Vietnam is a captivating cruise destination in Southeast Asia, where visitors are greeted with lush landscapes, ancient temples, bustling markets, and a rich tapestry of cultural heritage. For cruise passengers, Vietnam shore excursions offer an excellent opportunity to go beyond the port and experience the heart of this beautiful country in a limited time.
Booking a trip with Global Shore Excursions allows you to make the most of your day ashore, whether you’re docking at Halong Bay, Chan May, Phu My, or Nha Trang Port. Enjoy immersive experiences such as exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites, meeting friendly locals in traditional villages, tasting authentic Vietnamese cuisine, or cruising along the Mekong Delta. Whether you prefer small-group cultural tours, private guided visits, or soft adventure activities, Vietnam has something memorable for every type of traveler.
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Destination Info
| Visa Requirement: | E-visa available for most nationalities (apply online in advance) |
| Languages Spoken: | Vietnamese |
| Currency Used: | VND |
| Attractions: | Halong Bay, Hue Imperial City, Hoi An, Cu Chi Tunnels, Mekong Delta, Hanoi Old Town, Ba Na Hills ,… |
Discover the most unique Vietnam shore excursions crafted by experienced local experts. These handpicked tours offer authentic, immersive experiences designed to make the most of your limited time ashore.
Explore Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage with shore excursions that dive deep into the country’s fascinating history and traditions. Visit ancient temples, colonial-era landmarks, and vibrant local markets. These excursions provide travelers with a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s past, showcasing its unique cultural diversity.
Step back in time with shore excursions that explore Vietnam’s compelling wartime history. Tour war museums, historic prisons, and colonial-era landmarks in cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. These excursions provide eye-opening insights into the country’s turbulent past and its journey toward peace and independence.
Enjoy peaceful journeys along Vietnam’s iconic rivers such as the Mekong or Perfume River. These relaxing cruises take you through tropical landscapes, floating markets, and lush gardens. Discover the tranquil beauty of Vietnam’s countryside while immersing yourself in the daily rhythms of riverside life. Ideal for travelers seeking a gentle pace and stunning scenery.
For those seeking excitement, Vietnam’s shore excursions include soft adventure activities. You will have chances to cycle through the rice fields of Hoi An, or kayak among the limestone cliffs of Halong Bay. These active tours are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking to explore off the beaten path.
Itineraries including must-see attractions while maintaining a comfortable pace
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Hassle-free transportation picking you up directly from the cruise port and ensuring a timely return to your ship.
Our team works closely with you to create a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Vietnam is one of Asia’s most captivating cruise destinations, offering a unique blend of ancient culture, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes. For cruise passengers docking at ports across the country, Vietnam Shore Excursions offer unforgettable opportunities to explore the very best of what Vietnam has to offer. Below are the top-rated destinations for shore tours, each offering distinct experiences tailored to time-conscious cruise travelers.
Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Halong Bay is famous for its emerald waters and limestone karsts. Shore excursions here often include scenic boat cruises, kayaking, or cave exploration. Popular stops include Thien Cung Cave, Titop Island, and Ba Hang Floating Village. For those with limited time, a short bay cruise combined with a seafood lunch makes for a perfect day.
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For cruise ships that dock overnight in Halong, a shore tour to Hanoi is a top pick. This vibrant capital offers a deep dive into Vietnamese culture and history. Discover landmarks like Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the bustling Old Quarter. It’s a rewarding full-day journey for travelers interested in Vietnam’s political, colonial, and ancient heritage.
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Known as the former imperial capital of Vietnam, Hue is a cultural treasure with stunning royal architecture. Shore excursions from Chan May Port typically include visits to the Imperial City, Thien Mu Pagoda, and royal tombs along the Perfume River. Hue’s slower pace and historical charm make it a standout for history lovers.
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Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most atmospheric towns, famous for its lantern-lit streets, historic architecture, and tailor shops. Cruise passengers can take a relaxing shore tour from Da Nang or Chan May Port to this UNESCO World Heritage town. Tours may also include Da Nang’s Marble Mountains, My Khe Beach, or Linh Ung Pagoda with its towering Lady Buddha statue.
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Also known as Saigon, this dynamic southern metropolis offers a mix of French colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers, and wartime history. From Notre-Dame Cathedral and Ben Thanh Market to the powerful War Remnants Museum, shore excursions here are both exciting and eye-opening. For those interested in Vietnam War history, the Cu Chi Tunnels are a must-visit, located about 1.5 hours outside the city.
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Experience the charm of Vietnam’s southern countryside with a relaxing tour to the Mekong Delta. Cruise passengers can enjoy a traditional sampan boat ride through palm-fringed canals, visit coconut workshops, and sample tropical fruits. It’s a perfect way to experience Vietnam’s rural life in a short time.
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This coastal resort town is ideal for travelers looking for a blend of beach time and cultural exploration. Shore excursions often include a visit to Po Nagar Cham Towers, the Long Son Pagoda, and a boat trip to nearby islands. Nha Trang is also known for its seafood and hot spring experiences.
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Whether you’re drawn to history, nature, culture, or adventure, Vietnam’s shore excursions offer something for every traveler. From the imperial past of Hue to the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City, these tours are curated to fit cruise schedules while providing meaningful experiences. At Vietnam Shore Excursions, we tailor private and small-group tours to ensure your time ashore is unforgettable.
Shore excursions in Vietnam offer cruise passengers a fantastic opportunity to explore the country’s rich culture, natural beauty, and historic landmarks. To make the most of your visit, it’s important to prepare in advance. Below are essential tips to help ensure your Vietnam shore excursion is smooth, enjoyable, and memorable.
Whether you're docking in Halong Bay, Phu My Port, or Chan May, many cruise travelers have questions about how to make the most of their limited time ashore. Below are frequently asked questions to help you confidently book and enjoy your Vietnam shore excursions.
While cruise lines offer convenience, many travelers prefer booking with local companies like us – Global Shore Excursions for more personalized service, flexible itineraries, and better value. Local experts know the ports intimately and can tailor your Vietnam shore trip to suit your interests and schedule.
Yes. There are many types of Vietnam excursions ranging from cultural sightseeing and food tours to light adventure activities. Providers like Vietnam Shore Excursions offer custom tours that accommodate all ages, mobility levels, and interests, whether you’re traveling with young children, seniors, or multi-generational groups.
Vietnam’s main cruise ports are located outside city centers, so travel time should be factored in:
Well-planned shore excursions in Vietnam always include sufficient buffer time to return to port.
Most Vietnam shore excursions include:
Some packages may also include meals or optional activities like cyclo rides, cooking classes, or boat tours.
Weather in Vietnam can be warm and humid, so it’s best to stay cool and hydrated during your Vietnam shore trip with these neccessary items:
Absolutely. One of the advantages of booking with local providers like Vietnam Shore Excursions is the ability to customize your tour. You can adjust departure times, choose preferred attractions, and set the pace that suits your group. This makes your shore excursions in Vietnam more comfortable and rewarding.
Excellent Service, Unforgettable Experience!
“We booked a tour in Dunedin and were truly impressed by the professionalism of Global Shore Excursions. The transportation was punctual and comfortable, and the itinerary was fantastic. We marveled at the breathtaking scenery of the Otago Peninsula and visited the historic Larnach Castle. Our guide was passionate and shared fascinating insights into the local history and culture. This was definitely one of the best experiences of our cruise!.”
Fantastic from Start to Finish!
"We had an unforgettable day with Global Shore Excursions on our tour in Tauranga, New Zealand. The guide was extremely professional, friendly, and knowledgeable. The trip to Hobbiton and Rotorua was incredible—everything was perfectly arranged, from the transportation to the delicious lunch. We felt well taken care of, even better than the tours offered by the cruise line. Absolutely worth it!"
High-Quality Private Tour, Worth Every Penny!
"We chose a private tour in Wellington instead of the cruise ship’s tour, and it was the best decision! The private car was comfortable, and our driver-guide was incredibly friendly and flexible, allowing us to explore the city at our own pace. The highlight of the tour was our visit to the Weta Workshop—a must-see for any Lord of the Rings fan. Thank you, Global Shore Excursions, for an amazing day!"
Whatever you want from your vacations on Vietnam Shore Excursions, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.
