Private Saigon Walking Tour with Food Tasting
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle downtown Saigon is the world of alleys where the real life of Saigonese reveals. Our authentic walking tour will lead you through these hidden mazes where you will see how locals live. Come and join us to explore the backyard of this city through its hidden alleys and immerse yourself from a truly local experience!
HIGHLIGHTS
Be a Saigonese for half a day (the magic wears off before midnight)!
Experience Saigon’s nightlife like a local.
Have a surprise 3-hour walking around Saigon’s alleyways to reach hidden places frequented by local patrons.
Enjoy sightseeing Saigon and sampling delicious street foods (snack, dinner & dessert).
See nighttime Saigon at its best from one of the riverside viewing spots.
Capture the most incredible photos of the surrounding scenery.
Enjoy panoramic views of Ho Chi Minh City at Saigon Skydeck.
Available options
Private Saigon Walking Tour with Food Tasting
What's included
Transport by car back to District 1
Food tasting: two light snacks, one main dish (Noodle soup of choice: pho, hu tieu or bun)
One dessert
Drink (soft-drink or bottled water)
Detailed itinerary
1
4:30 AM
You will be greeted at the Fine Arts Museum, the main entrance.
The tour starts through busy streets in downtown areas. You will be introduced with stories of the then-and-now Saigon while we pass by modern and old houses, local markets, pagodas, hidden cafes, street food vendor and shrines.
Our first stop is the Fine Arts Museum (outside), a masterpiece of Sino-French architecture and once the mansion of one of the wealthiest man of Saigon in the old days. Our steps continue to the street dubbed as “mini-Chinatown” to visit a small Pagoda of the Chinese Hokkien community. The Chinese community, along with the majority Vietnamese as well as Khmer, Cham, Indian and European people all left their footprints and made a culture-diverse modern Saigon.
The journey goes on into the chaotic-yet-lovely of Saigon alleys. From now on, you will be experiencing the real local life, with street vendors roaming, bikers riding just next to you and open-space living room in a very up-close distance. Our guide will show you how urban people live, how they make their lives with small businesses at home and get lost in the endless maze of small alleys and dead-ends. Expect to see beauty salons, coffee shops, grocery stores or family living scenes as you pass by houses along the roads.
We will also pass through countless street-food stalls where you can get a taste of local delicacies that can’t be found in upmarket restaurants or touristy areas. Feel free to ask your guide to stop at any places that you feel interested.
6:30 PM
The walk concludes with a stop at local noodle shops for a local dinner. Visit one of the oldest churches in town. After that, we will drop you off at the ultra-modern Saigon Skydeck to enjoy 360-degree views of Ho Chi Minh City at night around 7:30 PM.
What's not included
Additional food and drinks
Personal expenses
Tips/ gratuities for local guide, insurance
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
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
