Ho Chi Minh City private walking tours with young local volunteers
Active
2h - 8h
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
As a non-profit club, we charge no service fee, you are only paying for the booking system and in need of covering the transportation fees, attraction entrance fees and meals.
Founded in 2006, Saigon Hotpot is a non-profit organization and voluntary student club committing to promote the beauty of Ho Chi Minh city by taking visitors on private walking street tours. We have accompanied friends from all around the world - from the US, the UK, Greece,... to Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong,...
At busy times, we can conduct more than 200 tours per month with top-notch quality service as all our guides spend at least 3 months in training. We peaked at TripAdvisor top 5 and remains one of the top choices for visitors ever since.
The tour is totally customizable to give you the most personalized experience. For further information as well as free booking, please visit our website.
For weekday booking, please visit our website.
Available options
Ho Chi Minh City private walking tours with young local volunteers
Pickup included
What's included
Tour-guide service
Detailed itinerary
1
- City Option, including: The Independence Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, Central Post Office, and many more.
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is the important economic, political, cultural and educational center of Vietnam. This city is a combination of modern and classic, skyscrapers and ancient architectures in the Western style which is associated with interesting stories of Vietnamese history.
What can be more interesting than having a tour around the city center in a fresh morning? With young and dynamic locals, fun facts and fantastic untold stories, we will unveil the history and the culture of Saigon through some of the most symbolic places of this 300-year-old city.
2
Stop 2
- Chinatown Option, including: Ba Thien Hau Temple, Ong Bon Pagoda, Father tam Church, and many more.
“Chinese culture always has its own uniquely ancient vibe”
There is an existing downtown area in Saigon where Cantonese people predominantly resides. Taking a long ride from early morning or enjoying sunlight during the afternoon, Saigon Hotpot will blow your mind with many interesting facts, mysterious religious stories and legendary anecdotes among top destinations in Chinatown.
Also known as Cholon, China town covers a broad area, including District 5, part of District 11 and District 6 in Ho Chi Minh City. This place is now a significant commercial center of the Chinese in Ho Chi Minh City which still preserves the precious values of culture, religion and architecture dating back thousands of years. The pipe-shaped tiled roofs in Chinatown streets combining with typical Chinese architectures feature a unique classic beauty.
3
- Inside Out Option, including: Cheo Leo / Do Phu Cafes, The Secret Weapon Cellar, Tan Dinh (pink) Church, and many more.
Is this the first, the second or the x time you have been to Ho Chi Minh city, or as many people intimately call “Saigon”? It does not matter how many times you have visited this city, because it still has a lot more to offer. From the perspective of local student, we would like to be your partners from little alleys to corners of the streets to discover the hidden historic building and unique cuisine that creates the “true” Saigon.
4
- Night Food Option, including: Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, Nguyen Thien Thuat apartment buildings, with special local dishes.
Saigon is most definitely a magical place for your taste buds. The street food here is diverse with specialties from the North to the South of Vietnam. Various dishes come from the flexible combination of fresh ingredients, delicious spices and processing methods, which varies between different regions. Join us on a tour and you will have the chance to dive into local life in bustling alleys packed with food vendors who have spent decades perfecting their special dishes, see the whole process of preparing a dish and experience Saigon’s history and culture through its foods.
What's not included
Coffee and/or Tea
Private transportation
Attractions Entrance Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
16 reviews
5★
14
4★
1
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.9
313 reviews
5★
302
4★
6
3★
0
2★
3
1★
2
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
