Ho Chi Minh City , Vietnam

Saigon’s Street Secrets

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(5 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Turning around new corners to capture local life redefines the Saigon experience from start to finish. Void of the city’s tickbox essentials, the real street secrets can only be found when knowing where to look. An authentic trail through bustling Saigon.
• An unaltered wander through dynamic Ho Chi Minh City
• Watch how local flower trade flourishes throughout the day
• Enter the country’s first medicinal museum
• Enjoy local treats and snacks along the way
• Return transfer from and to your hotel are included

Available options

Private Tour (25-26)

Private Morning Tour<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All entrance fees for visits as mentioned in the description

Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver

All applicable taxes and service charges

A half-day tour with a professional English-speaking guide

Local snacks during the tour

Detailed itinerary

We will pick you up from your hotel and head down to lesser-known parts of this southern Vietnamese city. Our tour starts with a leisurely walk through some thematic streets selling birds, bonsai trees, miniature landscapes, local antiques and handicraft.

Visit a traditional medicine museum and explore the art of healing, passed on from generation to generation. The very first museum of traditional medicine in Vietnam is known for its stunning interiors, entirely made from wood. Frames of wooden houses were transported from some northern provinces to Ho Chi Minh City to give the museum an antique look.

Included during this 5-hour tour are some unique local markets, located off the tourism radar yet well worth your attention. From street side stalls selling decorative flowers to wartime objects, evoking strong scents of local life, these places of commerce are some of Saigon's secrets. Our port of call is a hectic local market, where around 100 households receive between 1,000-3000 flower boxes daily, which then will exchange hands to buyers from all areas of the city.

During this highly interactive exploration, you will learn how crucial various objects and practices remain for the Vietnamese population, both physically and spiritually. Our little surprise is waiting at an authentic home meal dining or a nostalgic Saigon café, hidden in an old flat. It goes without saying; a peek into the authentic side of the city includes local snacks and delicacies, unique to this part of the world.

After 5 hours of wandering through little-known Saigon exploring this vibrant, electric city, away from the more common sights, we head back to your booked accommodation in Ho Chi Minh City.

What's not included

Personal expenses such as meals, drinks, tips and gratuities

Hotel accommodation in the destination of commencement

Single supplement charges for single travellers, where applicable

Any airline tickets, visa fees, additional transportation cost from and to the general meeting point

Supplements for transfers outside the general pick up and drop off area

Hotel expenses of a personal nature, should an overnight be included

Travel insurance coverage for customers (highly recommendable)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.5

4 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

This tour is operated on full private basis with English-speaking guide. Other languages are on request / subject to availability and supplementary charges may apply

Return transfers for this excursion apply only / are inclusive for customers staying in and inside Ho Chi Minh City centre. Transfers outside these areas, including any accommodation outside the city, harbour and the Ho Chi Minh’s International Airport are excluded. Supplements apply for customers who want to join this excursion outside one of these regions.

Customers are advised that during the TET celebrations (celebration of Vietnamese New Year), excursions and tours may be subject to supplementary charges and/or may see longer waiting times than normal

We will do all possible to comply with any dietary requirements during this excursion; it may not always be possible to confirm your wishes in advance based on the choice of snacks during the excursion

We regret to inform you that this excursion is not suitable for wheelchair users. Guests are advised that some walking is required during this excursion

We always ensure that we take the most comfortable ways from the entrance of the sight to the sight itself. For any operational issues in which are not able to confirm the exact pick-up time in advance, we reserve the right to inform you the day before the departure of the tour

Please note pickup and drop-off services may not be confirmed for customers staying at private residences, apartment complexes, or other non-registered tourism accommodations. Customers may be asked to meet at a nearby hotel for pick-up and drop

Natural elements of any kind have a destructive effect on electronic equipment. It is the customer’s own responsibility to ensure that any camera, mobile telephone or other device is properly wrapped and protected against these elements. We cannot be held responsible in any way for negligence and/or not following suggestions for any damage related to this

Please ensure that you bring sunglasses, a hat /cap and sunblock with a high SPF factor when traveling with us on this tour – even when it is cloudy, the sunrays still have an immense power

We reserve the right to make necessary changes to the excursion in case of unfavourable weather conditions or situations where we are forced to make alterations to guarantee the safety of our guests

It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request

In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions

Important notes

• It is the responsibility of the customer to provide us with the correct hotel information, should pick-up and drop-off services be included in the package. Any changes in accommodation outside 24 hours will be handled accordingly: changes within 24 hours may be on request

• In the event of no-show or change of accommodation without prior consent and confirmation from us within 24 hours may result in the applicable cancellation charges as outlined in the terms and conditions
• Hotel pickups commence approximately at 8am for morning tour and 1pm for afternoon tour

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time, you must contact the local service provider to verify your exact pickup time.

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