Saigon Night Bites on Foot: Local Vendors, Stories & Sweet Finish
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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About this experience
Eat like a local on this 3-hour Saigon night food walk! Savor iconic dishes, from beef noodle stew to Cantonese BBQ pork, plus coffee, street beer, and a sweet flan finale. Explore hidden alleys, visit a historic temple, and discover how Chinese flavors shaped Vietnamese cuisine—all in a small group for an authentic, personalized experience.
Available options
Small Group Food Tour
Private Saigon Street Food by
Private Saigon Street Food by
What's included
Pass by Chua Ba Thien Hau, a temple honoring Chinese immigration and Saigon’s heritage
Learn how Chinese flavors shaped Vietnamese cuisine
Mingle with locals over a cold Saigon beer, peanuts, and rice crackers
Dive into Saigon’s legendary street food scene with an expert local guide
End on a comforting note with flan cake (crème caramel) at a beloved street stall
Experience Saigon’s coffee ritual at a hidden neighborhood café
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts – A stunning French-colonial building showcasing Vietnam’s rich artistic heritage. It’s centrally located and easy to find, making it the perfect starting point for your Saigon food adventure.
2
Begin your small-group walking tour with authentic local flavors! Taste Cháo Mực, Hu Tieu Bo Kho (beef stew noodles), and xa xiu (Cantonese-style barbecued pork). As you enjoy these dishes, discover how Chinese culinary traditions have influenced Vietnamese cuisine. Take in the spicy aromas of bustling street stalls and watch everyday life unfold in the heart of Saigon.
3
On the way to our next food stop, we’ll pass by Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu, a historic temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea. This former Chinese community house honors the rich heritage of Cantonese, Teochew, and Hakka immigrants who shaped Saigon’s culture. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s multicultural past.
4
As we make our way to the next food stop, we’ll pass by Ong Lanh Bridge Market, a bustling local spot where vendors sell fresh produce and everyday essentials. It’s a vibrant slice of Saigon life and a great chance to see how locals shop and interact in their neighborhood.
5
No local experience is complete without coffee! We’ll slip into a hidden hem (alley) to enjoy a cup just like Saigonese coffee aficionados do every day. Your guide will show you the traditional way to drink it—rich, bold, and full of character—so you’ll feel right at home.
6
Next on your food adventure is one of southern Vietnam’s most beloved dishes: Bò Cuốn Mỡ Chài (grilled beef meatballs wrapped in caul fat). Simple ingredients, bold flavors—this street food classic is a true local favorite, found everywhere from humble stalls to upscale restaurants. One bite and you’ll understand why it’s unforgettable!
Wrap up your Saigon food adventure with a cold street beer served with peanuts and rice crackers—a perfect chance to mingle with locals. Then, finish on a sweet note with a silky Vietnamese flan (crème caramel) at a beloved local stall.
What's not included
Additional Food and Drinks
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.5
119 reviews
5★
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4★
14
3★
2
2★
4
1★
6
Tripadvisor
4.9
588 reviews
5★
558
4★
19
3★
4
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2
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is the minimum age for this tour? The minimum age to join this experience is 6 years.
Will the food stops always be the same? This tour visits independent, family-owned businesses, and their schedules and menus may change. Street food venues and dishes often vary, but your local guide will make any final adjustments to ensure the best experience.
What food is included? Expect authentic tastings such as: Hu Tieu Bo Kho (beef stew with noodles), Xa Xiu (Cantonese-style barbecued pork or duck), Bo La Lot (grilled minced beef in betel leaf) and Flan cake (Vietnamese crème caramel)
How much walking is involved? The tour covers approximately 2.5 km (1.5 miles), so comfortable shoes are recommended.
Meeting point
Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, 97A Pho Duc Chinh Street, District 1.
Important notes
Dietary Note:
This tour can cater gluten free customers but unfortunately is not suitable for vegans. There are limited food options for vegetarians. For any specific dietary request, please notify us within 24hr of the start of the tour. Please emails us at email info@hochiminhurbanadventures.com.
Additional Information
Please note that this tour visits independent, family-owned businesses whose operating schedules and menus may change. Therefore, street food venues and local dishes often vary; your local guide will make any final adjustments on the spot.
Dress Code
Light and comfortable clothing is recommended
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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
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Free cancellation available
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