This study aims to explore perceived authenticity and its impact on emotional solidarity, memorable experiences, and destination loyalty among tourists visiting a cultural heritage site. This research employed a quantitative method to examine the research phenomenon. Cai Rang floating market was selected as a research site for data collection which took place from May to December 2023. Using a convenient sampling method, both domestic and international tourists were recruited for the study. A structured questionnaire yielded 447 valid responses, comprising 222 from international tourists and 225 from domestic tourists. Smart PLS-SEM and multigroup analysis were employed to test hypotheses and compare models based on both data samples (i.e., international and domestic tourists). The findings indicate that perceived authenticity significantly influences emotional solidarity, memorable tourism experiences, and destination loyalty. Moreover, emotional solidarity notably enhances memorable heritage experiences and fosters tourists’ loyalty to the cultural heritage site. Importantly, positive memorable tourism experiences directly contribute to tourists' destination loyalty. The comparative analysis highlights varying effects of perceived authenticity on emotional solidarity between the two markets. These findings provide significant theoretical and practical implications for heritage destination managers and tour operators aiming to enhance tourists' authentic experiences and promote destination loyalty.