When seeking a premium experience in Ho Chi Minh City, travelers often look toward the shimmering skyline of District 1. However, the true luxury of Saigon lies in its secrets—the stories preserved in amber within its hidden alleys.

At the heart of our Ho Chi Minh Hidden Alleys & History: Private Motorbike Tour is a stop that defines the city’s heritage: Cheo Leo Café.

The Oldest Living Legend: Since 1938

Established in 1938, Cheo Leo is more than just a coffee shop; it is a living museum of Saigonese culture. While the city outside has transformed into a bustling metropolis, Cheo Leo remains a sanctuary of nostalgia. For the discerning traveler, this isn’t just a caffeine fix—it’s an exclusive invitation to witness a fading art form.

The Craft: The Art of the “Vợt” Coffee

In an era of espresso machines, Cheo Leo honors the traditional “Vợt” (cloth net filter) method. The coffee is brewed in century-old clay pots, ensuring a temperature and texture that cannot be replicated by modern technology.

As part of our curated travel experiences, we ensure you don’t just drink the coffee—you understand the craft. Watch as the owners meticulously filter the beans to create the perfect Bạc Xỉu (white coffee), a creamy, aromatic delight that has been a local favorite for over 80 years.

Why Visit Cheo Leo on a Private Tour?

Navigating the labyrinthine alleys of District 3 to find this hidden gem can be daunting for the solo traveler. By choosing a private motorbike tour, you elevate your visit from a simple outing to a professional, seamless experience:

• Expert Storytelling: Our professional, English-speaking guides provide deep historical context that you won’t find in guidebooks.

• Safety & Comfort: Skip the stress of traffic. Sit back on a vintage-style ride as we navigate the city’s dynamic streets safely.

• Personalized Itinerary: Because this is a 100% private tour, you can linger longer at Cheo Leo, soaking in the jazz music and the scent of roasting beans without feeling rushed.

Beyond the Coffee: A Gateway to History

Cheo Leo is just one chapter in the story we tell. Our tour bridges the gap between the aromatic quiet of the cafes and the pivotal historical landmarks of the 20th century. From the Secret Underground Bunkers to the Thich Quang Duc Monument, we offer a narrative-driven journey through the authentic heart of Ho Chi Minh City.

Plan Your Exclusive Saigon Adventure

If you are looking for an authentic Ho Chi Minh City experience that balances comfort with raw local culture, look no further. Our “Hidden Alleys & History” tour is designed for those who value depth, privacy, and the stories that make a city unique.

Ready to step off the beaten path? Book your Private Motorbike Tour and visit Cheo Leo Café today.

Many travelers arrive with a DIY (Do-It-Yourself) spirit, wanting to find those legendary hidden spots with just a map and a sense of adventure. However, deciding where to begin is tricky when there are so many great spots.. If you decide to go with an expert, you might wonder: how do I choose the best food tour company in HCMC? Look for a team that goes beyond the tourist center of District 1, prioritizes your safety (whether on a motorbike or a vintage Jeep), and employs local “storytellers” who know the history behind every bowl.

How to Choose the Best Food Tour Company in HCMC: 5 Things to Check Before You Book (2026)

With hundreds of scooter tours available in Saigon, it can be hard to tell the professionals apart from the amateurs. To ensure your night is about great food and not unnecessary risks, here is your essential checklist:

1. Check the “International Tour Operator License”

This is the most critical check for your safety. In Vietnam, a legal operator must deposit 500 million VND (~$20,000 USD) to hold an International Tour Operator License.

✪ The Insurance Trap: If you have an accident with a company that does not have this license, your travel insurance will not cover you.

✪ The Reality: 90% of scooter tours in Ho Chi Minh City do not have this license because they cannot meet the deposit requirements.

✪ The Saigon Adventure Difference: We are a fully licensed legal entity. Because we pay our taxes (VAT), your tour is officially recognized, and your travel insurance remains valid and secured.

2. Ask About Dedicated Accident Packages

Standard travel insurance is great, but a top-tier company should offer additional local protection for peace of mind.

Saigon Adventure offers a dedicated accident insurance package for just $3–$5 USD per person. This ensures you have immediate local support and coverage without having to fight with your home insurance provider over a minor incident.

3. Check Rankings Across Multiple OTAs

Don’t just trust a single review site. A truly reliable company will have a consistent, top-tier reputation across all major Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).

Look for companies that consistently hold the #1 spot on platforms like Viator, GetYourGuide, Tripadvisor, and Klook. This proves that their service quality is high enough to satisfy the strict standards of international booking platforms.

4. Inquire About Driver Training Standards

In the chaos of Saigon traffic, you want more than just a “guy with a bike.” You need a professional.

✪ Ask the company: How long are your drivers trained before they can lead a tour?

✪ At Saigon Adventure, every driver must undergo a rigorous one-month training program before they are allowed to lead a single guest. We don’t just hire riders; we train professional guides who prioritize your safety and comfort in traffic.

5. Look for Menu and Experience Flexibility

A “one-size-fits-all” tour is usually a sign of a company that doesn’t care about your specific needs. The best companies offer good customization:

✪ Dietary Needs: Can they handle vegetarian, vegan, or “no-seafood” requests?

✪ Tasting Options: Do they offer different “tiers” of eating, such as a 7-tasting light tour or a 12-tasting feast?

✪ Rider Preference: Do you have the option to choose between male or female riders to make you feel more comfortable?

The Bottom Line

Booking a food tour in Saigon should be about the thrill of the “unseen” alleys and the joy of local flavors, but it must start with a foundation of safety. By checking these five points, you ensure that your 2026 trip remains a highlight of your life, not a legal headache.

Ready to book the #1 rated experience in the city? 👉 View our Fully Licensed & Insured Saigon Food Tours Here

To help you on your journey, we have put together the ultimate 15-dish bucket list with detailed explanations and addresses so you can find the best of the best.

The Iconic 15: Your Saigon Street Food Masterlist

1. Com Tam (Broken Rice)

Once a humble meal for farmers made from “broken” rice grains that couldn’t be sold, this is now Saigon’s most beloved breakfast. It is a smoky, savory, and sweet masterpiece.

Top Choice: Cơm Tấm Ba Ghiền – 84 Đặng Văn Ngữ, Phú Nhuận District.

Why here? This spot is Michelin-recognized for its massive, tender pork chops marinated in a secret family sauce and grilled over open charcoal.

Pro Tip: Always ask for “Top mỡ” (crispy pork fat) and a side of “Chả” (steamed egg cake) for the full experience.

2. Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)

The ultimate fusion of French colonial influence and Vietnamese creativity. It is a crusty baguette packed with rich pâté, various meats, and fresh pickles.

Top Choice: Bánh Mì Bảy Hổ – 19 Huỳnh Khương Ninh, District 1.

Why here? This humble cart has been serving locals since the 1930s. They are famous for their homemade pâté, which has a flavor profile that has remained unchanged for nearly a century.

Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid of the chili; it balances the richness of the meats perfectly.

3. Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)

The world knows Phở, but Saigon-style Phở is unique—sweeter, bolder, and served with a forest of fresh herbs.

Top Choice: Phở Phượng – 25 Hoàng Sa, District 1.

Why here? Located right by the canal, this shop is famous for its slow-cooked, clear broth that highlights the natural sweetness of beef bones.

Pro Tip: Order a side of “Quẩy” (fried dough sticks) to dip into your soup; it’s the local way to soak up every last drop.

4. Bun Bo Hue (Beef Noodles Soup Hue Style)

While Phở is delicate, Bún Bò Huế is powerful. It features thick vermicelli in a lemongrass-infused spicy broth originating from Central Vietnam.

Top Choice: Bún Bò Huế Út Hưng – 6C Tú Xương, District 3.

Why here? They use a traditional recipe that emphasizes the savory depth of shrimp paste without being overpowering.

Pro Tip: If the broth is too spicy, have a cold glass of “Trà Đá” (iced tea) ready to cool your palate.

5. Oc (Street Snails & Shellfish)

In Saigon, “going for snails” is a social event. It is about sharing small plates of seafood cooked in garlic butter, tamarind, or salted egg.

Top Choice: Ốc Đào – 212B/C79 Nguyễn Trãi, District 1.

Why here? They are masters of sauces. Their “Ốc hương rang muối tuyết” (sea snails with a snow-salt crust) is a legendary local favorite.

Pro Tip: Order extra bread to dip into the leftover garlic butter sauces.

6. Banh Xeo (Sizzling Pancake)

Named after the loud “sizzle” it makes on the pan, this is a giant, crispy yellow crepe filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts.

Top Choice: Bánh Xèo 46A – 46A Đinh Công Tráng, District 1.

Why here? You can watch the cooks manage massive flames in an open kitchen, ensuring every pancake is perfectly crispy.

Pro Tip: Wrap a piece of the pancake inside a large mustard leaf with fresh herbs, roll it up, and dip it deep into the fish sauce.

7. Bun Thit Nuong (Grilled Pork With Noodles)

The perfect “all-in-one” meal: cold rice noodles, fresh herbs, crispy spring rolls, and smoky grilled pork.

Top Choice: Bún Thịt Nướng Kiều Bảo – 139 Đề Thám, District 1.

Why here? They offer high-quality, generously sized portions at very affordable local prices right in the heart of the city.

Pro Tip: Pour the entire bowl of sweet and sour fish sauce over your noodles and mix it thoroughly before your first bite.

8. Bot Chien (Sizzling Rice-Flour Omelet)

Saigon’s favorite late-night comfort food. Cubes of rice flour are fried on a flat griddle with eggs until they are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside.

Top Choice: Bột Chiên Đạt Thành – 277 Võ Văn Tần, District 3.

Why here? This spot has perfected the “crunch.” They serve it with a tangy soy sauce and shredded green papaya to cut through the richness.

Pro Tip: Visit after dark when the griddles are at their hottest and the atmosphere is most vibrant.

9. Pha Lau (Organ Meat Stew)

A unique, creamy stew made from organ meats cooked in coconut milk and five-spice powder. It is a nostalgic snack for many Saigonese.

Top Choice: Phá Lấu Cô Thảo – 243/29G Tôn Đản, District 4.

Why here? Located in a maze of local alleys, this spot is famous for its rich, aromatic broth that isn’t too heavy.

Pro Tip: Always order a baguette to soak up every last drop of the coconut broth.

10. Hu Tieu Nam Vang 

A multi-cultural dish with Cambodian roots, featuring a clear, savory pork broth with shrimp, quail eggs, and minced meat.

Top Choice: Hủ Tiếu Nhân Quán – 122D Cách Mạng Tháng 8, District 3.

Why here? They are renowned for their “Dry” (Khô) version, which features noodles tossed in a special savory soy-based sauce.

Pro Tip: If you order the dry version, it comes with a side bowl of soup to help cleanse your palate.

11. Banh Trang Tron (Rice Paper Salad)

The king of street snacks. It’s a mix of shredded rice paper, green mango, dried beef, quail eggs, and a tangy calamansi dressing.

Top Choice: Bánh Tráng Chú Viên – 38 Nguyễn Thượng Hiền, District 3.

Why here? This street is a legendary “snack heaven,” and Chú Viên is the most famous vendor, known for his perfectly balanced dressing.

Pro Tip: Don’t just eat at one spot; walk the whole block to see the variety of street snacks available.

12. Goi Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)

The healthy street food. These are translucent rice paper rolls packed with fresh herbs, vermicelli noodles, pork, and shrimp.

Top Choice: Gỏi Cuốn Hạnh – 420 Hòa Hảo, District 10.

Why here? They are famous for their thick, rich peanut dipping sauce that perfectly complements the fresh rolls.

Pro Tip: Ensure the rolls are tightly wrapped; it makes them much easier to dip without falling apart.

13. Sup Cua (Crab Soup)

A thick, comforting soup filled with real crab meat, wood ear mushrooms, and often a century egg.

Top Choice: Súp Cua Hạnh – 517 Sư Vạn Hạnh, District 10.

Why here? This spot is a local favorite for its consistent quality and generous portions of crab.

Pro Tip: Add a dash of chili oil and black pepper to sharpen and deepen the flavor of the broth.

14. Traditional Bun Mam

Known as the “Vietnamese Gumbo,” this bold soup features a pungent, fermented fish broth loaded with seafood and crispy pork.

Top Choice: Bún Mắm 444 – 375 Lê Quang Định, Bình Thạnh District.

Why here? It is an authentic representation of the Mekong Delta flavors, offering a deep and incredibly savory experience.

Pro Tip: This is for the adventurous eater; the aroma is strong, but the taste is unforgettable.

15. Che (Vietnamese Sweet Soup)

The most cooling way to wrap up your journey through the city’s heat and spice.. Chè is a cold dessert that can include anything from colorful jellies and mung beans to coconut milk and tropical fruits.

Top Choice: Chè Hà Trâm – Inside Hồ Thị Kỷ Flower Market, District 10.

Why here? Located in the heart of a vibrant flower market, this stall offers some of the most diverse and colorful desserts in the city.

Pro Tip: Try the “Chè Thái” for a tropical fruit explosion that will perfectly end your culinary journey.

DIY or Professional Guide?

Exploring Saigon’s food scene on your own is a rewarding challenge, but a professional guide can take you to those “unseen” locations that don’t appear on any map. When choosing the best food tour company in HCMC, remember to look for local expertise, diverse transport options, and a commitment to authentic, non-tourist routes.

Ready to skip the navigation stress and dive straight into the best flavors of the city? Let our expert storytellers lead the way.

👉 Join the Saigon Adventure Street Food Tour today and see the side of the city that most tourists miss!

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Saigon. Ho Chi Minh City. Call it what you will, but one thing is undeniable: this is Vietnam’s buzzing heart, an exhilarating metropolis that demands to be explored with an adventurous spirit. From the constant symphony of motorbike horns to the intoxicating aroma of Saigon street food on every corner, it’s an adventure for all five senses.

At Saigon Adventure, we want you to dive in headfirst. This comprehensive guide is packed with local insights and practical tips to ensure your trip to Ho Chi Minh City is smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.

1. Logistics: Visas, Currency, and When to Go

The Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh City

Saigon has a tropical climate with two main seasons:

• Dry Season (December to April): Hot, sunny, and the most popular time for travelers. December and January are slightly cooler, making them ideal for sightseeing.
• Rainy Season (May to November): Expect heavy, brief downpours, usually in the mid-afternoon. These storms rarely last long and often provide a welcome cool-down. Don’t let the “rainy” label deter you—it’s a great time to find flight and hotel deals!

Vietnam Visa Essentials

• Always check the latest requirements from a government source.
• E-Visa: The easiest option for many nationalities. Apply online via the official government portal before you travel.
• Visa Exemptions: Many countries qualify for short-stay (e.g., 15-45 days) visa-free entry. Confirm your status before booking!

Handling the Vietnamese Dong (VND)

• Currency: Get used to big numbers! 100,000 VND is a common note.
• Quick Tip: To estimate US Dollar cost, drop three zeros and divide the remaining number by 24 (e.g., 240,000 VND is roughly $10 USD).
• Payment: Cash is essential for street food, markets, and local cafes. Larger establishments accept credit cards.
• ATMs: Widely available, but most charge a transaction fee. Withdraw larger amounts to save on bank fees.

2. Navigating the Chaos: Transport Tips for Adventurers

From SGN Airport to City Center (District 1)

Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) is only about 6km away.

• Reputable Taxis: Use only Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white/green/red). Always insist the meter is running. Avoid random touts.
• Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab is the king. Download the app to book fixed-price cars or motorbikes. It is reliable, cheap, and eliminates language barriers.

Getting Around Ho Chi Minh City

• Grab Motorbike: The fastest, cheapest, and most authentic way to move around. It’s a core part of the Saigon adventure!
• Walking: District 1 is walkable, but save your strolls for the cooler mornings and evenings.
• The Saigon Crosswalk Rule: Walk slowly and predictably. The traffic flows around you. Do not suddenly stop, step back, or run. Maintain your pace and the motorbikes will adjust. It feels like a leap of faith, but trust the flow!

3. The Culinary Adventure: Must-Try Saigon Street Food

The real heart of Ho Chi Minh City lies in its culinary scene. Forget the fancy restaurants—the best food is found on a tiny plastic stool in an alleyway.

Check our Best Street Food Tour By Motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City 

4. Top Attractions & Day Trip Adventures

Essential Saigon Landmarks (District 1 Focus)

• War Remnants Museum: A sobering but essential visit. Offers a powerful, localized perspective on the Vietnam War (American War). Go early to avoid crowds.
• Reunification Palace (Independence Palace): The historical site where the war officially ended in 1975. The 1960s architecture is a fascinating time capsule.
• Central Post Office & Notre Dame Cathedral: Beautiful French colonial architecture side-by-side. The post office is fully operational and worth a look inside.
• Bitexco Financial Tower (Saigon Skydeck): Pay to go up for the best panoramic view of the sprawling city. The view at sunset is unbeatable.

The Top Two Saigon Day Trip Adventures

For the true “Saigon Adventure” experience, you need to leave the city center.

1. The Cu Chi Tunnels: An incredible network of underground passages used by the Viet Cong during the war. You can crawl through sections (if you dare!) and learn about the incredible ingenuity and resilience of the soldiers.
   • Adventure Tip: Book a small-group tour for a more insightful and less hurried experience.
2. The Mekong Delta Day Trip: Escape the urban jungle for the “rice bowl” of Vietnam. You’ll cruise down the maze-like network of rivers, visit fruit orchards, see a coconut candy workshop, and experience life on the water.
   • Adventure Tip: Look for tours that take you beyond the main tourist stops and include a small sampan boat ride down a narrow canal. You can also choose option Mekong Delta Tour by Luxury Speed Boat.
   • If you’re looking to explore the beauty of Vietnam while keeping an eye on your travel fund, our Classic Mekong Delta Tour is a fantastic choice. With prices ranging from $21 to $26.

5. Staying Safe: Local Tips & Advice

• Petty Theft: Be vigilant in crowded areas like Ben Thanh Market or Bui Vien. Keep your phone and camera secure. Carry bags across your body and keep them facing forward.
• Haggling: In local markets (like Ben Thanh), haggling is expected. Start at 50% of the initial price and work your way up to a fair middle ground. Note: Prices in cafes and established restaurants are fixed.
• Water: Only drink bottled water. Ice is generally safe as it’s machine-made with filtered water.
• Travel Insurance: A must-have. Don’t leave home without comprehensive travel insurance that covers emergency health issues and accidents (especially if you plan to ride a motorbike!).

Read more about Safe Travel Tip in Ho Chi Minh City

6. Hidden Gems & Local Culture: Beyond District 1

To truly experience the Saigon adventure, you need to step away from the major landmarks. The city’s soul lives in its bustling residential neighborhoods and charming hidden corners.

The Alleyway Life (Hẻms)

The narrow alleys known as hẻms are the DNA of Ho Chi Minh City. Venture off the main street (take a Grab into District 4 or Bình Thạnh) and you’ll discover:

• Tiny, family-run food stalls serving just one dish perfectly.
• Neighborhood shrines and temples tucked between houses.
• The genuine, community atmosphere of local life.

Saigon’s Unique Cultural Spots

• The Pink Church (Tan Dinh Church): (District 3). An unmissable, stunningly beautiful cotton-candy pink Catholic church built during the French colonial era. It’s an Instagram favorite and a genuine spiritual landmark.
  • Adventure Tip: It looks best on a bright, sunny morning!
• Chợ Lớn (Saigon Chinatown): (District 5). Explore the largest Chinatown in the world, a maze of markets and ancient pagodas. Visit the beautiful Thien Hau Pagoda (Temple of the Sea Goddess) for a truly atmospheric experience filled with spiraling incense coils.
• The Café Apartments (42 Nguyễn Huệ): This old, nine-story apartment block is an architectural marvel where each window houses a boutique café, fashion store, or co-working space. It’s a perfect symbol of Saigon’s blend of old structures and new creativity.

Check our Saigon Unseen Tour By Motorbike in Ho Chi Minh City

7. The Saigon Coffee Culture: More Than Just a Drink

Ho Chi Minh City’s coffee culture is legendary. It’s not just about the caffeine; it’s a social ritual, a meeting spot, and a way of life inherited from French colonialism and perfected by Vietnamese ingenuity.

Top Coffee Spot Styles to Explore:

• Modern Third-Wave Cafés: Focused on specialty beans and pour-overs, great for remote work (e.g., The Workshop Coffee).
• Vintage Apartment Cafés: Hidden gems inside old buildings, offering a peaceful, creative escape from the street noise.

8. Saigon After Dark: Nightlife & Rooftop Views

When the sun sets, Ho Chi Minh City nightlife explodes. From cheap local beer corners to world-class rooftop bars, the city truly refuses to sleep.

The City’s Nightlife Hubs

• Bùi Viện Walking Street (The Backpacker Street): Loud, chaotic, and vibrant. A must-see for a night of cheap drinks, street performances, and global backpacker energy.
  • Adventure Tip: Be extremely vigilant with your belongings here and stick to fixed-price bars/restaurants to avoid scams.
• Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street: A sophisticated, family-friendly evening spot. Locals gather here for socializing, street food, and dancing. The nearby colonial buildings (City Hall, Opera House) are beautifully lit up.

Chasing the Skyline: Saigon Rooftop Bars

For an elevated adventure, treat yourself to a drink with a view.

• Chill Skybar: The classic, high-end rooftop experience atop the AB Tower. Expect a strict dress code and high prices, but the panoramic view is worth it.
• Saigon Saigon Rooftop Bar: (Caravelle Hotel). Historically significant, this bar was a meeting spot for war correspondents. It offers incredible, lower-level views of the Opera House and the heart of D1.
• The View Rooftop Bar: (Duc Vuong Hotel). A fantastic budget-friendly option located in the backpacker area, offering great views without the luxury price tag.

Alternative Evening Adventure: Saigon River Cruise

For a more romantic or relaxing night, book a Saigon River dinner cruise. It offers a beautiful perspective of the city’s glittering skyline as you enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dinner.

Check our Saigon River Dinner Cruise

Vinpearl Land Nha Trang amusement park

• You should come to Vinpearl Land early in the morning because it will take you the whole day to explore the full range of activities and services here.
• During peak season (June, July, and August), visitors are very crowded, for that reason you should go early to line up around 8:30 AM.

Water park

Outdoor game area

Indoor playground

Aquarium

• Opening hours: 09:00 AM – 09:00 PM

• Mermaid show: 11:00 AM – 11:10 AM; 03:00 PM – 03:10 PM
• Fish feeding session: 10:00 AM – 10:15 AM; 05:00 PM – 05:15 PM

Performances

Movie castle

• Opening hours: 10:00 AM- 07:30 PM

Shopping Street

• Opening hours: 09:00 AM – 09:00 PM

Discover a wide range of eateries available at Vinpearl Land Nha Trang

Spend a night at Vinpearl Land Nha Trang, why not?

READ MORE: HOW TO SPEND 3 WEEKS IN VIETNAM

Shopping street in Hoan Kiem district

2. Hanoi Weekend Night Market

Lively street market in Hanoi’s Old Quarter

3. Dong Xuan Market

Large marketplace in the northern part of Hanoi Old Quarter

4. Lotte Center Hanoi

Popular shopping mall in Ba Dinh

5. Trang Tien Plaza

Shopping mall in Hanoi’s French Quarter

6. Hang Bac Street (Silver Street)

Atmospheric street specialising in jewellery

7. Nha Tho Street (Church Street)

Shopping street offering independent stores and restaurants

8. Hang Da Market

Modern 3-storey market in Hanoi Old Quarter

9.Hang Dau Street

Shopping street specialising in shoes

10. Thanh Binh Gallery

Art gallery near the Hanoi Opera House

Requirements:

• Testing:
  • Arrivals by air: are required to take a PCR test within 72 hours before departure or rapid antigen(ATK) test within 24 hours of departure.
  • Arrivals by land or by boat: are required to take a rapid test or PCR test at the border before entering the country if they do not have prior tests results as above.
• Visa exemptions: will be offered for citizens of the following 13 countries: Belarus, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Norway, Russia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, and the U.K.
  • Visa exemptions permit travel for up to 15 days without a visa regardless of passport type or entry purpose.
• E-Visas: will be offered for citizens of 80 countries including the United States and most European nations not included in the visa exemptions above.
  • E-visas are single-entry 30 day tourist visas.
  • E-Visas can be applied for here.
• Medical insurance: covering COVID-19 treatment worth at least US $10,000, which costs around $30 USD.
• Children: Children under 2 years of age are exempt from all requirements.
  • Children between the ages of 2 and 12 must be tested prior to departure.

• Install COVID Management and Prevention application (PC-COVID) for contact tracing.
• Make a health declaration.
• Anyone exhibiting symptoms of COVID infection will be asked to take a rapid antigen test at the airport before heading to their hotel.

• Monitor health for 10 days as per health ministry protocol
• If guests tests positive for COVID during their stay, they can self-isolate unless there are serious symptoms requiring medical services. In these cases, either we or authorities will assist in transportation to a local hospital depending on the situation and severity.

• Are unvaccinated travellers able to enter Vietnam?
  • We don’t know yet, although we recommend that all travellers be fully vaccinated.
• Will guests be required to show proof of COVID insurance? We don’t know yet, but we always recommend travel insurance covering COVID treatment and other incidents.
• What will the procedures be for the rapid antigen test on arrival for those who were not tested before departure?

1. Explore Cho Lon: Saigon’s Historic Chinatown

• Thien Hau Pagoda: The most famous temple in the area, dedicated to the Sea Goddess. Famous for its beautiful architecture and spiraling incense coils.
• Chua Quan Am Temple: A beautiful Chinese temple known for its colorful statues and tranquil atmosphere amidst the market chaos.
• Cha Tam Church: A striking Catholic cathedral located within the Chinatown district, serving as a powerful symbol of the diverse religious history and cultural blending in Saigon.

2. Historical & Modern Landmarks (French Quarter – Must-Visit Sights)

• War Remnants Museum: A powerful, essential, and often sobering look at the Vietnam War (American War). Allow plenty of time for reflection.
• Reunification Palace (Independence Palace): A fascinating mid-century time capsule where the war officially ended in 1975.

The Iconic French Quarter

• Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: This imposing red brick building was built between 1877 and 1883, with materials entirely imported from France. The two iconic towers in the front of the cathedral rise majestically above visitors at nearly 58 meters tall. (The statue of the Virgin Mary in the square is also an intriguing sight, especially when neon-lit at night).
  • Note: The cathedral is often undergoing restoration, so check ahead of time if you wish to view the interior.
• Central Post Office: Located directly opposite the cathedral, this stunning, still-operational post office was designed by Gustave Eiffel. Step inside to admire the grand, vaulted ceilings and period architecture.
• Bitexco Financial Tower (Saigon Skydeck): Pay to go up to the 49th floor for the city’s best panoramic views of the sprawling urban landscape. Perfect for capturing sunset over the Saigon River.

3. Uncover the Mystique of the Jade Emperor Pagoda

• Visitor Tip: The air is thick with the smoke of spiraling incense coils. This is a working temple, so please maintain silence and dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered) to honor the local worshippers.

4. Ben Thanh Market: Shopping & Street Food Hub

• Handicrafts & Souvenirs: The perfect place to pick up bargain souvenirs, clothing, coffee, and Vietnamese traditional crafts.
• Traditional Vietnamese Food: The food stalls along the outer perimeter (especially at night) are a great, inexpensive place to try local favorites like Bánh Xèo and Phở.

5. Nature Escape: Can Gio Mangrove Forest & Island Adventure

6. Uncovering the Legend of the Sea Goddess: Ba Thien Hau Temple

• Intricate Artistry: The halls are filled with countless porcelain figures, detailed dioramas covering the roof, and ornate wood carvings depicting Buddhist and Taoist legends.
• Atmosphere: Look up to see the iconic, giant spiral incense coils hanging from the ceiling, filling the air with a sacred, smoky scent.

8. Culinary Immersion: Master Vietnamese Cuisine with a Cooking Class

• Market-to-Table Experience: Many classes include a guided market tour where you shop for fresh ingredients, transforming your trip into a Saigon food tour with class.
• Recommended Adventure: We highly recommend the Saigon Cooking Class by Hoa Tuc. Led by passionate chefs who expertly combine classic and contemporary Vietnamese dishes, it offers a high-quality, memorable experience.
  • Budget Tip: Tours typically start from around 909,000 VND (~$39.50 USD), but great alternatives and more budget-friendly options can easily be found when you shop around online!

9. The Ultimate Foodie Adventure: Saigon Street Food Tour

• Conquer the City & Cuisine: Join a motorbike food tour HCMC to zip through the city chaos like a local, safely hitting hidden spots that tourists rarely find.
• What You’ll Taste: On a good tour, you will safely sample a huge variety of dishes, including Southern staples like rice vermicelli with BBQ pork (Bún Thịt Nướng), refreshing coconut juice, and, of course, authentic Vietnamese coffee.
• Recommended Adventure: Companies like Street Food Adventure Tours specialize in guiding you safely to the best local vendors, ensuring a delicious and memorable night out.
• Pricing Tip: Food tours are an excellent value, typically starting around $27 USD for several hours and many tastings. Be sure to check what’s included (e.g., drinks, helmet, insurance) when booking!

MEET OUR FEMALE RIDER TEAM

10. The Ultimate Foodie Adventure: Saigon Street Food Tour

  The Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best-preserved examples of French colonial architecture in the country. It was built in 1897 for the opera but now also hosts lots of different performances, including ballet and Vietnamese traditional dances and plays. Check the website to see what’s on during your visit.

More advices:

HOW TO SPEND 1 DAY IN HO CHI MINH CITY HOW TO SPEND 3 DAYS IN HO CHI MINH CITY 10 BEST PLACES TO GO SHOPPING IN HANOI Click me for our latest Promotions!

Vietnam Airlines is the national carrier and has the most flights daily, while Vietjet and Jetstar both offer affordable deals for short hops around the country.

Trains in Vietnam

Buying train tickets in Vietnam

• You can buy your train tickets at counters in Vietnam’s train stations days or months in advance of your trip, depending on the route. Train tickets are also sold through many travel agencies and online through Vietnam’s official train ticketing website.
• Children above 5 years old are charged the full ticket price.
• All trains have western and squat toilets on both ends of every carriage.
• Luggage transport and freight forward service is available on Reunification Express Trains (see below.)

If you’re traveling during Vietnamese holidays and peak times, be sure to book your train tickets well in advance. On ordinary days it’s still a good idea to buy your tickets a few days early. If you’re trying to buy tickets for same-day travel, you can expect the faster trains and best seats to be taken.

The Reunification Express

Buses in Vietnam

Motorbikes in Vietnam

Cycling in Vietnam

They explained the itinerary of the night and told us a few safety tips. It was going to rain soon, so we put on raincoats and went to our first stop.

CHILL SKY BAR

BIKE AROUND THE CITY CENTER AT NIGHT

After the drinks, we explored some highlights of the city by bike. The town looked different at night time, especially after the rain.

VISIT THÍCH QUẢNG ĐỨC MONUMENT 

If you’ve learned about the Vietnam war, you may have seen the very well-known photograph of the burning monk.

EXPLORE AN APARTMENT COMPLEX

Originally built for American soldiers, they are now home to a vibrant Vietnamese community, and also some of the best street food in Saigon.

VISIT THE FLOWER MARKET

Our next stop was the largest flower market in Ho Chi Minh City.

FILL YOUR BELLY WITH BANH XEO

The kitchen was placed at the entrance to the shop, and we watched as the chef expertly cooked four pancakes at once!

NEXT STOP BANH MI!

We then moved to a new location to try out Banh Mi – a Vietnamese style baguette.

This place was particularly famous for its tasty bread, which many of the other Banh Mi sellers in the area bought.

Each sandwich was packed with meat and other ingredients, and we could even try making one ourselves!

ENJOY DELICIOUS SEAFOOD DISHES

Seafood was the last stop and also our favorite one. We tried different food, including grilled shells and steamed clams. All of them were delicious!

OUR TOUR GUIDES 

We had a fantastic time with Michelle and Joey.

Although it rained during the tour and the traffic in Saigon was crazy (it was Saturday night!), their driving skills were impressive.

Overall, we enjoyed the tour. The tour guides were excellent, and the stops were great.

This review from Ms.Ha of Expatolife. See more at this link : https://www.expatolife.com/saigon-adventure-food-tour-vietnam/?fbclid=IwAR30zyG-6Sk4LekeeoWYR9aUhIrqNgpA3ohwzxg4aJ4F67_p8fS2P2B7TQc