Ho Chi Minh City Craft Beer Tour: Saigon Snacks & Night Ride

Discovering Saigon’s Craft Beer Scene: A Night Ride Through Local Flavors

We haven’t personally jumped on this tour, but from what’s shared, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s growing craft beer culture. This experience is advertised as a relaxed, street-focused exploration that combines beer tasting, local street eats, and an authentic night vibe.

What makes it stand out? First, you get to visit three carefully selected local spots—not typical bars or breweries—but rather casual, street-side hangouts where the city’s energetic nightlife is in full swing. Second, the option to explore on motorbike or private car offers flexibility and a local flavor that big tour buses can’t match. Third, the pairing of street bites with each beer promises a true taste of Saigon’s daily life and culinary culture.

However, some reviews suggest that the craft beer element might not be as prominent as expected—one reviewer pointed out that only the last stop was truly at a brewery, with other stops featuring canned beers and street snacks. That’s something to keep in mind if your main goal is to sample Vietnamese craft brews specifically.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want an authentic, lively evening experience with a focus on local street culture, without the pretension of fancy breweries or bars. If you’re keen on discovering Saigon’s street-side nightlife while sampling some fresh drinks and bites, this could be a fun, laid-back way to spend an evening.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic local spots: Visit three diverse street-side venues with a rotating selection of Vietnamese beers.
• Flexible transport options: Choose between a motorbike ride or a private car for a personalized experience.
• Street food pairing: Enjoy grilled skewers, crunchy snacks, and local bites alongside your drinks.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides share insights into Saigon’s drinking habits and nightlife culture.
• Vibrant night atmosphere: Experience the energy of street-side nightlife, markets, and buzzing sidewalks.
• Value for social travelers: A casual, fun way to meet others and explore Saigon’s evening scene.

The Itinerary: A Night in Saigon’s Streets

This tour promises a lively journey through some of the most vibrant parts of the city after dark. While specific timings aren’t disclosed, the overall flow typically involves hotel pickup, a ride through bustling streets, and visits to three local venues—both hidden alleys and popular corners. The focus is on casual outdoor venues rather than upscale breweries, which makes the experience more authentic and accessible.

First Stop: Setting the Scene

You’ll start with a pickup from your hotel, after which your guide—possibly Tuco or Eddy based on reviews—will take you on a ride through Saigon’s lively streets. The choice of transportation (motorbike or private car) influences the vibe: the motorbike offers an intimate, wind-in-your-hair experience, while a private car provides comfort and a more relaxed pace.

Once at the first venue, you’ll be introduced to Vietnamese beer styles like bia hi, a local phenomenon, and fresh tapped craft beers. It’s a great way to begin your understanding of Vietnam’s evolving beer culture outside the typical beer scene.

Second Stop: Hidden Gems & Street Snacks

The second venue is often a bustling street corner or a lesser-known alleyway, where you’ll find street food paired thoughtfully with your drinks. Think grilled skewers, crunchy snacks, and other treats that locals love to munch on with beer. One reviewer noted that their guide, Tuco, “knows a lot about the city and the culture,” which added layers of insight to the experience.

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Third Stop: The Final Taste

The last stop might be at a local brewery or a spot serving mini brew setups. Here, you can sample tropical fruit-infused styles or classic pale ales brewed in Vietnam. While one reviewer was disappointed that only the last stop was at a brewery, others appreciated the chance to try fresh, local brews in casual outdoor settings.

Evening Atmosphere & Cultural Insights

Throughout the night, your guide will share stories about Saigon’s nightlife, drinking habits, and the local love for small-batch brews. Expect a relaxed, friendly environment—no crowds, no pretension, just genuine street energy. Some reviews mention guides like Eddy and Tuco as especially knowledgeable and personable, making the experience more engaging.

Transportation & Logistics

You have the option to explore on a motorbike or a private car, which significantly influences the tour’s mood. The motorbike ride adds adventure and the chance to feel the city’s pulse up close, but it might be less comfortable if you’re not used to riding. The private car provides a more relaxed experience, especially if you prefer comfort or are traveling with a group or family.

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it convenient and hassle-free. The total duration isn’t specified, but with three stops, expect around 3 hours of activity, making it a manageable evening outing.

Cost & Value

At $48 per person, the tour offers a good value for those interested in a local, outdoor nightlife experience rather than a traditional brewery tour. However, if your priority is to sample a wide variety of Vietnamese craft beers, you might find some stops leaning more toward street snacks and canned beers.

Authentic Experiences & Tips for Travelers

Based on reviews, guides like Eddy and Tuco are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Their insights add depth to the tasting experience, making each stop more than just drinking—it’s about understanding Saigon’s street culture.

For practical tips, wear comfortable shoes since the tour involves walking through lively street areas. Bring cash for additional purchases, and keep your smartphone charged to capture the vibrant scenes. Also, a valid ID card or copy is necessary for age verification, as the tour is not suitable for those under 21.

Potential Drawbacks

While the experience aims to focus on craft beers, some guests might be disappointed if they’re expecting a brewery-focused tour. As one reviewer noted, “only the last stop was at a local brewery, everything else was basically street snacks with canned beers.” If your main goal is to taste Vietnamese craft beers exclusively, this may be a consideration.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see Saigon through a local’s eyes—sampling street-side drinks and bites while soaking in the city’s lively street vibe. It suits those who enjoy casual outdoor settings, are open-minded about beer varieties, and seek an authentic, social night out.

It’s also perfect for adventurous types who appreciate a mix of tasting, storytelling, and experiencing nightlife on two wheels or in a private ride. If you’re looking for a laid-back, culturally enriching evening, this tour offers a memorable taste of Saigon’s street life.

FAQ: Your Practical Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since the focus is on beer tasting and street snacks, non-drinkers might find it less engaging. However, you can still enjoy the street scenes and snacks without alcohol.

What is included in the price?
Your fee covers transportation (motorbike or private car), hotel pickup and drop-off, a friendly guide, visits to local spots, tastings of Bia Hi, craft beers, and street food, plus stories about Saigon nightlife.

Can I choose between a motorbike and a car?
Yes, the tour offers both options. You can select your preferred mode at booking.

How long does the tour last?
While not explicitly specified, expect around 3 hours, including multiple stops and riding time.

Are vegan or specific dietary options available?
Yes, the tour mentions both vegan and non-vegan street food options, so you can request suitable snacks.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s not suitable for unaccompanied minors or those under 21. It’s designed more for adult travelers wanting a casual, lively experience.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, cash, a charged smartphone, and ID are recommended.

What if I don’t like canned beers?
Some reviews suggest that not all stops feature craft beers; a focus on street snacks and canned beers might not satisfy all craft beer enthusiasts.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts

This Ho Chi Minh City craft beer tour, combining street-side nightlife with local snacks and insights, offers a genuine, laid-back way to experience Saigon after dark. It’s a fantastic option for travelers who want to see the city’s lively streets, meet friendly guides, and taste its evolving beverage culture without the fuss of formal brewery visits.

While it might not satisfy hardcore craft beer aficionados seeking extensive tasting, the combination of vibrant street scenes, authentic bites, and friendly storytelling makes it a memorable outing. The flexibility of transport choices, the inclusion of hotel pickup, and the opportunity to explore local hangouts make this a convenient and engaging way to spend an evening.

Overall, if you enjoy casual, outdoor experiences with a focus on local culture and socializing, this tour promises a lively, flavorful night in Saigon. It’s best suited for those curious about street life, looking for an authentic vibe, and happy to keep an open mind about what constitutes a “craft beer” experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: