Ho Chi Minh: PRIVATE Off the Beaten Track Tour with a Local
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Ready to experience a side of Ho Chi Minh like a local, with a local? This is a tour, unlike any other! If you want to take a step away from the touristy path, there's no better way than by diving into the city's alternative side. Welcome to Quân 6!
If you're done with the main highlights, why not step away and take a less-traveled path that will show you an unexpected side of Ho Chi Minh? Follow a local guide on a private tour full of surprises and check out Ba Chien Hau pagoda and Binh Tay market, and more that let the true form of the city shine!
Withlocals Off the Beaten Track Tour™ is one of Withlocals' signature tours available in major cities worldwide. We work with passionate local guides who earn a fair fee. We support local economies by only offering local produce and prevent over-tourism with only small non-intrusive groups. Our tours are carbon-neutral and away from the standard tourist routes.
Available options
PRIVATE TOUR
What's included
Private Local Guide
Private Tour - only you and your local
Sustainable Carbon Neutral Experience
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Done with the main highlights of Ho Chi Minh City? Check out the Quân 6. Explore a lesser-known part of the city that will give you a more authentic feel of Ho Chi Minh City. Check out Binh Tay market and more!
2
Let a local expert in the area you’ll visit show you their Ho Chi Minh City from a different perspective - away from the tourist traps. See street art, cultural hot spots, local vendors, hangout spots, and historical gems, and embrace the vibe!
3
Want to explore more of the area after the tour? Your host is happy to recommend their favorite eateries and where to take a break while wandering in this vibrant area
4
Stop 4
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
5
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
6
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
7
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
8
Stop 8
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
9
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
10
Stop 10
Pass by
Depending on your host and their chosen route for the tour, this stop might also be included in your route.
What's not included
Hotel pick-up and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
VI
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.6
12 reviews
5★
10
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
104 reviews
5★
99
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
3
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
PRIVATE TOUR: only you & your local guide
Meeting point
Meet up at Ben Thanh Market, exit/gate 3, address: Phan Chu Trinh
Important notes
• Private guide
• Fruit tasting in the market
• Vietnamese coffee at a unique coffee place
• Grab taxi costs
• Local bus tickets
About Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's largest metropolis, is a vibrant blend of tradition and modernity. Known for its rich history, bustling markets, and French colonial architecture, it offers a dynamic travel experience with its lively street food culture, historical landmarks, and energetic nightlife.
Top Attractions
War Remnants Museum
This museum provides a sobering look at the Vietnam War and its impact on the country. It houses a collection of war machinery, photographs, and artifacts.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations appreciated)
Cu Chi Tunnels
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Historical
Half-day tour
Moderate (tour prices vary)
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
A beautiful example of French colonial architecture, this cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It is a peaceful place to visit and offers a glimpse into the city's religious heritage.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free
Ben Thanh Market
One of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a wide variety of goods, including food, clothing, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience local culture and shop for bargains.
Market
1-2 hours
Budget to Moderate
Bitexco Financial Tower Skydeck
Offers panoramic views of the city from the 49th floor. The Skydeck provides a unique perspective on Ho Chi Minh City's skyline and landmarks.
Observation Deck
1 hour
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Pho
A traditional Vietnamese noodle soup made with beef or chicken broth, rice noodles, and various toppings such as meat, herbs, and bean sprouts.
Dinner
Vegetarian options available
Banh Mi
A Vietnamese sandwich made with a baguette, filled with various ingredients such as grilled meat, pâté, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Com Tam
Broken rice served with grilled pork, a fried egg, and various accompaniments like pickled vegetables and fish sauce.
Lunch
Vegetarian options available
Goi Cuon
Fresh spring rolls filled with shrimp, pork, herbs, and rice vermicelli, served with a peanut or fish sauce dipping sauce.
Appetizer
Vegetarian options available
Popular Activities
Golfing at Long Thanh Golf Resort
Exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels
Boat tours in the Mekong Delta
Beach relaxation in Vung Tau
Nature walks in Cần Giờ Mangrove Forest
Spa and wellness treatments
Visiting historical sites like the War Remnants Museum
Exploring local markets and temples
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with lower humidity and less rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The weather is generally pleasant, though it can be quite hot.
25-35°C
77-95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Vietnamese
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in other areas
Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Time Zone
GMT+7
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Ho Chi Minh City is generally safe for travelers, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and at night. Exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Bargain for better prices at markets
Getting there
By air
- Tan Son Nhat International Airport • 7 km from city center
By train
Saigon Railway Station
By bus
Mien Dong Bus Station, Mien Tay Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are an affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow due to traffic. Routes are numerous and well-marked.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Grab, Gojek
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
District 1
District 3
District 5 (Chinatown)
District 7
Phu Nhuan District
Day trips
Mekong Delta
130 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
The Mekong Delta is a vast network of rivers, canals, and islands known for its lush landscapes, floating markets, and traditional villages. It offers a unique glimpse into rural Vietnamese life.
Cu Chi Tunnels
60 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Half day
A network of underground tunnels used by Viet Cong soldiers during the Vietnam War. Visitors can explore the tunnels, learn about their history, and see various war relics.
Vung Tau
120 km from Ho Chi Minh City • Full day
A coastal city known for its beautiful beaches, seafood, and relaxed atmosphere. It's a popular destination for a day trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
Festivals
Tet Holiday (Vietnamese New Year) • January or February (varies each year)
Ho Chi Minh City International Film Festival • December (varies each year)
Mid-Autumn Festival • September or October (varies each year)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
- Use ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek for convenient and affordable transportation
- Bargain for better prices at markets and street vendors, but do so politely and with a smile
- Try street food and local eateries for an authentic and delicious culinary experience
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the midday heat
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
