Half Day Back Alleys Expedition in Saigon by Bike
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Half Day Back Alleys Expedition in Saigon by Bike

Active
(2 reviews)
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

If you compare Saigon to a giant ant nest, going deep into the back alleys is like having a microscopic cut into the slices of the ant nest. Inside each cut, we will experience spaces that are wide, narrow, deep, shallow, or dark with the constant changes and unpredictable transformation of the alleys. Back alleys in Saigon are a huge network that connects districts and are considered unique cultural features of this city with a high population of 14 million people.

Available options

Half Day Back Alleys Expedition in Saigon by Bike

What's included

Travel insurance.
01 cup/glass of coffee.
Breakfast
01 Certified English-speaking Tour Guide.
01 bottled water.

Detailed itinerary

1

6:45 AM: Arrive at the meeting point " The Bike Coffee " The address is 816 Truong Sa, Ward 14, District 3. Check in and try on your bikes.
7:00 AM: Walk through basic bike navigation and road safety instructions
7:15 – 8:30 AM: Ready! Set! Ride from the meeting point. We begin with a warm-up cycling exercise through the city to breathe early morning fresh air and observe the city getting ready for a new day.

2

8:30 AM: Stop for morning coffee and breakfast.

3

9:15 AM: Start the back alley expedition, going through 6 districts to experience a never-before feeling of going deep into super tiny alleys (some of which only fit 01 bicycle, not even motorcycles fit in). We will make frequent stops at a few historical alleys where you can see the city's contrast between rich and poor and learn about their history dating back a few hundred years.

4

Small alleys in Binh Thanh district. Explore the entire area of GRAFFITI street (next to the city's University of Fine Arts) from 1993 to 2013. It has evolved and transformed into beautiful streets populated by many residents and numerous accompanying alleys.

5

Small alleys in District 3. Come and hear about the alley with a nearly 100-year-old wall built alongside the Saigon Railway Locomotive Enterprise.
Explore "Chi Hoa Prison," a penitentiary built by the French in 1943. This place once detained political prisoners during the Vietnam War.

6

Explore small alleys in District 11. Enjoy the "Five Flavors" milk, with the main ingredient being five types of beans.

7

Explore small alleys in District 5. Explore and listen to two famous alleys in the Chinatown area, "Nha Thai Hang" and "Hao Shi Fang"".

8

11:30 AM (Estimated time): Return to meeting point. End the tour.

What's not included

All Fees and Taxes

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
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3★
0
2★
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1★
0

Important information

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Quick-dry clothes, specifically long pants and sleeved shirts (since we visit many temples). Not recommended: jeans or khaki trousers.
Sunglasses.
Small bag or waist bag (for phones and small personal belongings).
Sunscreen.
Sun protection sleeves.
Money for personal expenses.
This tour does not accept children under 14 years old.
Anyone over 16 years old with a basic fitness level: can mobilize for at least 5 hours (with breaks).
Have ever cycled on the street (not on a cycling machine at the gym) for more than 10km.
Car seat for children under 20 kg are not available for safety reason.

Meeting point

Arrive at the meeting point: " The Bike Coffe " address is 816 Truong Sa, Ward 14, District 3. Check in and try on your bikes.

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

Adults
Age 14-60
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 15
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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