Vung Tau’s 14 Best Tours & Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)

Vung Tau isn’t just a pretty seaside spot; it’s a hub of diverse tours and experiences that let you explore everything from Vietnamese culture to breathtaking landmarks. Whether you’re docked for a day or planning a longer stay, these experiences give you a taste of authentic Vung Tau life and nearby Ho Chi Minh City. Some tours, like the Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port, stand out with their personalized approach, making sure you hit the highlights efficiently. Others, like the Full Day Experience to Farm and Chocolate, appeal to those wanting to connect with nature and indulge in local cacao. With options ranging from cultural city strolls to scenic mountain climbs, Vung Tau’s tour scene offers something for every traveler looking for an authentic, memorable experience.

Quick Overview

This list covers a variety of guided tours tailored for different interests and timeframes. You’ll find private city excursions, group cultural tours, scenic nature trips, and even specialized experiences like meditation retreats or chocolate farm visits. For an easy, comprehensive city tour, the Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion delivers a personalized experience. For those seeking a unique taste of rural Vietnam, the Full Day Experience to Farm and Chocolate offers cacao farm visits and chocolate-making lessons. And if you want to explore Vung Tau’s iconic landmarks, the The Best Of Vung Tau Seatown Private Tour is a great pick. Each of these tours provides a different perspective on the region, so you can tailor your trip to your interests and schedule.

1. Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

For around $119, the Private Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion from Phu My Port offers a flexible, all-day exploration of Vietnam’s largest city. You’ll be met with a private guide and driven in a comfortable, air-conditioned minivan. The itinerary features major landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Independence Palace, with the option to customize your stops based on your interests.

What makes this tour stand out is the personalized approach—your guide can focus on what interests you most, whether that’s history, architecture, or local cuisine. The included Vietnamese coffee and lunch give you a taste of local flavors, adding to the culture. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, making this a solid choice for travelers who want to see the highlights without feeling rushed. The tour’s flexibility and comprehensive coverage make it ideal for first-time visitors and those with limited time.

Bottom Line: If you want a personalized, hassle-free experience covering Ho Chi Minh City’s top sights, this private tour is hard to beat.

2. Group share Phu My Port: Ho Chi Minh City Tour

At number 2, the Group share Phu My Port: Ho Chi Minh City Tour provides a budget-friendly way to explore Vietnam’s bustling metropolis. For just $119, you’ll join a small group for about 7 to 8 hours, traveling in a comfortable coach with a guide. The tour hits key sites like the Notre Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, and the War Remnants Museum, with plenty of commentary on Vietnam’s history and culture.

What’s special here is the focus on the Mekong Delta as well—cruising down the Tiền River at sunset and stopping at a traditional village offers a relaxing, scenic experience. Reviewers mention the stunning sunset, peaceful village visits, and the friendly guide, Milo, who makes the day memorable. This tour balances sightseeing with cultural insights and is perfect for travelers who prefer a group setting and value good value for money.

Bottom Line: If you’re after a well-organized group experience that combines city highlights with a scenic river cruise, this tour delivers.

3. The Real Ho Chi Minh City – Phu My Shore Excursions

Rated at $102.57, The Real Ho Chi Minh City – Phu My Shore Excursions takes a deeper dive into local life and authentic cuisine. This 8-hour tour skips the usual tourist spots in favor of Heavenly Lady Pagoda, the oldest coffee shop, and Ben Thanh Market—perfect for food lovers and culture seekers.

What makes this tour unique is its focus on local food and traditions. Guests often comment on the engaging guide who shares genuine stories, and the opportunity to learn how to make traditional Vietnamese coffee. For those wanting more than just landmarks, this experience offers a chance to see Ho Chi Minh City as locals do.

Bottom Line: If you prefer authentic, food-focused experiences with a knowledgeable guide, this tour is a fantastic choice.

4. Full Day Experience to Farm and Chocolate

At just $16.55, the Full Day Experience to Farm and Chocolate offers an unexpectedly sweet adventure in Ba Ria Vung Tau. This tour combines a visit to BINON CACAO PARK, a working cacao farm, with a chance to learn about sustainable cacao cultivation and see how local chocolate is made in the artisanal factory.

This experience is perfect for families and chocolate lovers. Reviewers highlight the friendly staff, tasty chocolate making, and the beautiful, well-maintained park. The included meal and the opportunity to explore the cacao groves make it a fun, educational outing that’s very affordable.

Bottom Line: If you’re looking for an inexpensive, fun, and tasty day out, this tour gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Vietnamese cacao.

5. Phu My Port : Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion Day Tour

For $86, the Phu My Port : Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursion Day Tour offers a classic city tour with highlights like Reunification Palace, War Remnants Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral. It includes a delicious Vietnamese lunch, making it ideal for travelers who want to maximize their port time efficiently.

Guests appreciate the well-structured itinerary and the knowledgeable guides who keep things moving smoothly. The tour balances historical sights with cultural flavor, providing a rundown in a manageable timeframe.

Bottom Line: A great choice for cruise passengers wanting a reliable, well-paced introduction to Ho Chi Minh City.

6. The Best Of Vung Tau Seatown Private Tour

The Best of Vung Tau Seatown Private Tour is a private 8.5-hour journey that showcases Vung Tau’s most iconic landmarks. Highlights include the Jesus Christ Statue, the Lying Buddha, and the Vung Tau Lighthouse. Your guide will share insights as you hike up Mount Nho, enjoy views of the city, and explore sacred sites.

Rated highly for knowledgeable guides and smooth logistics, this tour is perfect for those who want an intimate look at Vung Tau’s religious and scenic highlights. Reviewers mention the ability to customize the itinerary and the impressive views from the Christ Statue.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, scenic exploration of Vung Tau’s famous monuments.

7. Phu My Shore Excursion: A Wonderful Day in Vung Tau City

Rated at $109, this Vung Tau city tour covers beaches, temples, and local culture. Highlights include Bai Bien beaches, White Palace, and the Jesus Christ Statue. It’s a flexible tour that lets you explore the city’s natural beauty and historical sites.

The guide’s flexibility is often praised, and the inclusion of local cuisine makes it especially appealing for those who want a relaxed, yet culturally rich day.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a balanced dose of beaches, religious sites, and local atmosphere.

8. Phu My Shore Excursion: Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour with Guide

This private, 8-12 hour tour available for $115 offers an all-encompassing experience of Ho Chi Minh City. You’ll see Notre Dame Cathedral, Reunification Palace, and Chinatown, with a personalized guide to tailor the day to your interests. It includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch and flexible timing.

Reviewers highlight the smooth logistics and the opportunity for a customized experience. It’s ideal for those who want to avoid crowds and prefer a more intimate, in-depth exploration.

Bottom Line: A good pick for travelers wanting a flexible, private tour with a focus on cultural and historical highlights.

9. Ho Chi Minh City – 3 Day Meditation & Monastic life experience

If spiritual reflection interests you, the 3-day Meditation & Monastic life offers a profound chance to learn about Buddhist practices. It includes meditation sessions, volunteer work, and rituals alongside monks and nuns. This immersive experience is best suited for those serious about mindfulness and spiritual growth.

Participants rave about the tranquility and deep learning during the retreat, making it a rare chance to connect on a spiritual level. Be prepared for early mornings and a disciplined schedule.

Bottom Line: Great for spiritually-minded travelers seeking a profound, immersive retreat.

10. Private Saigon city from Phu My Port

The Private Saigon city tour is perfect if you’re looking for a personalized, flexible day in the city. For $155, you’ll explore French colonial buildings, local markets, and important landmarks like the Jade Emperor Pagoda. The tour adapts to your pace and interests, with guide insights on local culture.

Guests appreciate the professional guides and the opportunity to visit less touristy spots like the local wet market. It’s ideal for travelers wanting to customize their city experience.

Bottom Line: Best suited for those who want a private, tailored Vietnamese city experience.

11. Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour for Cruise Passengers

Tailored for cruise passengers, this Private Ho Chi Minh City Tour covers key landmarks in 10-11 hours, including City Hall, Opera House, and Ben Thanh Market. You’ll enjoy hassle-free port pickup and drop-off, making it ideal for tight schedules.

Reviewers mention the friendly guides and efficient itineraries that maximize your time ashore. This tour balances sightseeing with shopping and dining.

Bottom Line: Excellent for cruise travelers wanting a seamless, comprehensive city tour.

12. Phu My Port: Private tour to Ho Chi Minh City

This private tour is designed for those who want an in-depth exploration within 6 to 8 hours. Highlights include the Thien Hau Pagoda, Reunification Palace, and Ben Thanh Market, with a fun trishaw ride through busy streets.

Rated highly for personalized attention and well-planned logistics, it’s a good fit for travelers who prefer customized itineraries with local flavor.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those seeking a well-rounded, personal experience of Ho Chi Minh City.

13. Cu Chi Tunnels Shore Excursion from Phu My Port

For a compelling glimpse into Vietnam War warfare, the Cu Chi Tunnels Shore Excursion is a must. For $584.62 per group, it’s perfect for history enthusiasts wanting to explore the vast underground tunnel network. You’ll learn about guerrilla tactics and see preserved sections of the tunnels.

This experience offers a hands-on look at wartime ingenuity, making it a memorable part of your Vietnam trip. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a full day of touring and walking.

Bottom Line: A top pick for history buffs eager to explore Vietnam’s wartime past in detail.

14. Private Cu Chi Tunnels Shore Excursion Tour From Phu My Port

This private tour combines a visit to Cu Chi Tunnels with a panoramic drive through Ho Chi Minh City. For about $142 per person, it’s perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive day.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guide, smooth logistics, and the chance to see both history and city sights in one trip. It’s suitable for history lovers who want an immersive, full-day experience.

Bottom Line: Excellent for those wanting a deep dive into Vietnam’s historical sites combined with city views.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and time available. Want a personalized experience? The private tours like the Ho Chi Minh City private options or the Saigon city from Phu My Port give you customization. For culture, consider the real Ho Chi Minh City tour. If your passion is history and wartime sites, then Cu Chi Tunnels or the private Cu Chi + city are unbeatable. For scenic or relaxing experiences, the Vung Tau private tours and group Mekong Delta cruise are great options.

Consider your budget—some tours like the cacao farm are very affordable, while private city tours offer more exclusivity at a higher cost. Think about your fitness level; walking up the Christ Statue or exploring tunnels requires energy. And book early — popular tours fill quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

Vung Tau and nearby Ho Chi Minh City offer a broad range of tours and experiences suitable for almost every traveler. From cultural city explorations to historical battlefield visits and scenic religious sites, you can craft a trip that fits your specific interests and schedule. We highly recommend trying a private tour if you prefer personalized attention or a group experience for budget-friendly sightseeing.

Whether you’re after learning about Vietnamese history, tasting local food, or marveling at sacred monuments, these tours promise a memorable adventure. Don’t forget to book early, especially for popular options with high reviews, to ensure you get your ideal experience. Now, all that’s left is to pick your favorite and get ready for an unforgettable trip in Vung Tau and its surroundings.