War Relics of Saigon Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

An Authentic 9-Hour Journey through Saigon’s War and Cultural Heritage

If you’re stopping in Vietnam’s southern port of Phu My and looking to get a comprehensive taste of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), this War Relics of Saigon Shore Excursion offers a fascinating blend of history, culture, and local life. With a carefully curated itinerary that covers everything from historic temples to bustling markets and poignant war museums, this tour aims to give visitors a balanced view of Vietnam’s complex story.

One of the standout features of this experience is the inclusion of local guides who are not just knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about sharing Vietnam’s history and culture. Another highlight is the opportunity to sample traditional Vietnamese cuisine—pho and spring rolls—which are authentic flavors you’d likely want to try on your own as well.

The main consideration? This tour can be quite packed, leaving little room for lengthy explorations at each stop. It’s perfect for travelers eager to cover multiple sites in one day rather than those seeking a slow, contemplative experience. If you’re someone who loves history, vibrant markets, and authentic local food, this outing probably aligns well with your interests.

Ideal for those with limited time in Saigon, history buffs, or travelers who appreciate guided tours with all logistics taken care of. It’s also suitable for cruise ship passengers wanting a well-rounded glimpse of the city without the hassle of organizing transport or entry tickets.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary includes markets, temples, museums, and colonial architecture.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with insightful commentary.
• All transportation and entrance fees are included for stress-free sightseeing.
• Authentic local food offers a taste of classic Vietnamese flavors like pho and spring rolls.
• Short stops mean a fast-paced but informative day — good for those on tight schedules.
• Pickup and drop-off at Phu My Port make logistics simple.

A Deep Dive into the Tour Experience

Starting Point: Phu My Port

The adventure begins at Phu My Port, a bustling hub recognized for its high safety standards and efficient services. From here, you’ll be whisked away in an air-conditioned vehicle, leaving behind the port’s busy environment for the sights of Saigon. The convenience of pickup and drop-off means you don’t have to worry about navigating Vietnam’s transport systems—everything is handled smoothly, which is a real plus if you prefer a hassle-free day.

The journey from Phu My to Saigon takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, giving you a chance to settle in and get a preliminary glimpse of the countryside and urban landscapes en route. It’s a good time to start chatting with your guide, who will probably share some interesting tidbits about the city’s layout or recent history.

Binh Tay Market: A Vibrant Trading Hub

Your first real taste of Saigon’s lively spirit will be Binh Tay Market in Chinatown (Cho Lon). This market, dating back to the late 19th century, was built by the French to replace an older market lost to fire—it’s a vivid reminder of Saigon’s colonial past and Chinese community influence.

Inside, you’ll find a chaotic but charming maze of stalls selling everything from fresh produce, spices, textiles, to handicrafts. Here, you’ll catch the scent of herbs and the visual chaos of vendors calling out their wares. The market’s history is as textured as its goods; it’s a place to observe local commerce in action.

One review mentioned how the market was a “vibrant hub of culture,” where shopkeepers are eager to explain their products, adding a personal touch to your shopping experience. While not designed for leisure shopping, it’s a visual feast and a great spot to take candid photos.

Ba Thien Hau Temple: A Peaceful Cultural Oasis

Next, your tour heads to the Ba Thien Hau Temple, a stunning 19th-century shrine dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau. This temple is a beautiful example of Chinese-style architecture with intricate ceramic friezes and lively incense coils hanging from the ceiling.

Visitors often comment on its serene atmosphere, which provides a stark contrast to the bustling market. You’ll see worshippers lighting incense and making offerings, while the temple’s guardians—two land turtles—add a mystical element.

A guide might point out the miniature wooden structures used during festivals, adding context to the religious traditions. The temple offers a peaceful pause and a glimpse into the spiritual life of Saigon’s Chinese community.

The Independence Palace: Vietnam’s 1960s Architectural Icon

The next stop is the Independence Palace, a place that feels frozen in time. Surrounded by royal palm trees, its architecture—Bold, 1960s style—is instantly recognizable. The building’s history is poignant: it was the site where the fall of Saigon officially unfolded in 1975, marking the end of the Vietnam War.

Inside, you’ll explore deserted halls and period decor, which evoke the era’s political atmosphere. Guides often highlight the significance of this building as the home of South Vietnamese presidents and the political upheavals associated with it.

Reviews note that the architecture, while somewhat kitschy, offers a visual narrative of Vietnam’s past. The rooms filled with period furniture and war memorabilia help you understand the complexity of Vietnam’s history.

Lacquer Art at SN Mài i Vit

For a change of pace, the tour includes a visit to SN Mài i Vit, where you’ll learn about Vietnamese lacquerware. This traditional craft involves layering resin from lacquer trees with pigments, often decorated with mother-of-pearl or eggshells.

We loved the informative guide’s explanation of how lacquerware evolved from temple decorations to larger furniture pieces. You might see beautiful statues, panels, or trays—each a testament to Vietnamese artistry. Many reviews mention how the demonstration was detailed but accessible, making it a memorable cultural highlight.

War Remnants Museum: A Sobering Reflection

Perhaps the most emotionally impactful stop is the War Remnants Museum. It houses powerful exhibits that document Vietnam’s wartime experiences, including war crimes and consequences inflicted on the Vietnamese people.

The museum’s 9 permanent exhibitions and collections show a raw, unfiltered view of history, often leaving visitors with a sense of reflection. Guides emphasize the importance of understanding Vietnam’s resilience and hope for peace.

One reviewer called it “an eye-opener,” noting how the exhibits provide context for Vietnam’s ongoing journey toward reconciliation. It’s a sobering but essential part of the tour that adds depth to the cultural experience.

Tasty Pause: Pho and Spring Rolls

No trip to Vietnam is complete without tasting authentic Pho. The tour includes a stop at PH 24 – 158D Pasteur, where the aroma of simmered broth fills the air. Here, you can customize your bowl of Pho—adding herbs, lemon, and chili—just as locals do. This short but satisfying meal is a genuine taste of Vietnamese comfort food.

The guide explains the history behind Pho, noting it emerged during French colonial rule when beef became more available. It’s a delicious, filling, and affordable introduction to Vietnamese cuisine.

Ho Chi Minh City Central Post Office

Your last major stop is the French-era Central Post Office, an architectural marvel designed by Gustave Eiffel’s team. Its grand, yellow facade and interior with high domed ceilings and beautiful tiled floors evoke a romantic nostalgia.

You’ll have a quick opportunity to snap photos and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two from the small gift shop. Reviewers often highlight the detailed tile work and the mosaic of Ho Chi Minh that adorns the interior, which make it a charming ending to your tour.

Return to Phu My Port

After a full day of sightseeing, you’ll be driven back to Phu My Port. The entire experience lasts around 9 hours, giving you a comprehensive glimpse into Saigon’s history, culture, and daily life.

Practical Details and Value

This tour, priced at $90 per person, includes transportation, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, bottled water, and a light lunch—a very reasonable package considering the depth of sites covered. The group size is private, meaning you’re not sharing the experience with strangers, which allows for more personalized interactions.

While the pace is brisk, it means you get to see quite a bit without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Keep in mind that the itinerary is quite full—if you prefer slow, contemplative visits, some stops might feel somewhat hurried.

The reviews suggest that the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the history come alive. Visitors also appreciated the well-organized logistics, leaving them free to enjoy each stop without the stress of planning.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, culture lovers, and those eager to see multiple highlights in a single day. It’s perfect if you want a balanced overview without the hassle of organizing transport and tickets. It’s also suitable for cruise travelers, as the pickup and drop-off at Phu My Port make logistics simple.

However, if you prefer longer visits or in-depth exploration at individual sites, this might feel a bit rushed. The tour’s value lies in its efficient coverage and authentic insights provided by guides.

Final Thoughts

This War Relics of Saigon Shore Excursion strikes a good balance between historical education, culture, and local flavor. It’s a practical choice for travelers who want to understand Vietnam’s complex past while experiencing its lively present. The inclusion of market visits, temples, museums, and culinary treats ensures you get a well-rounded view of Ho Chi Minh City in just one day.

If you’re after a meaningful, guided experience with knowledgeable guides, tasty food, and convenient logistics, it’s a solid pick. Just remember, the pace is fast, and you’ll be covering a lot of ground, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding day.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off at Phu My Port, an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, bottled water, and a light lunch featuring pho and spring rolls.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 9 hours, including travel time and site visits, making it a full but manageable day.

Is this a private or group tour?
It’s a private tour, meaning only your group participates, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees for the listed sites are included in the price.

What are the main stops on this tour?
Stops include Binh Tay Market, Ba Thien Hau Temple, Independence Palace, Lacquer Art Center, War Remnants Museum, Pho stop, and Central Post Office.

Is lunch provided?
Yes, a light lunch with pho noodle soup and spring rolls is included, giving you a taste of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.

How much walking is involved?
Most stops involve short walks, with some standing and exploring, but the pace is guided and manageable for most travelers.

Is transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, all transport is air-conditioned, ensuring comfort during the approximately 1 hour 45-minute drive each way.

Are tips expected?
Tipping is not included; while not mandatory, it’s appreciated if you enjoyed the guide’s service.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This tour offers a meaningful way to see some of Saigon’s most important historical and cultural landmarks in a single, well-organized day. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a guided, hassle-free introduction to Ho Chi Minh City’s past and present.