Ho Chi Minh City’s 15 Best Tours & Experiences: Which To Choose?

Ho Chi Minh City isn’t just Vietnam’s bustling economic hub; it’s a place bursting with unique tours and experiences that reveal its lively streets, deep history, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you’re cruising the waterways of the Mekong Delta, exploring underground tunnels, or savoring street food on a scooter, the city offers countless ways to see, taste, and feel its vibrant pulse. We especially love the Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Motorbike Tour, which balances local flavor with insider stories, all while you relax on a bike. It’s a fantastic way to uncover the city’s hidden culinary treasures.

Ho Chi Minh City stands out for its diversity of tours—from half-day city highlights on a vintage jeep to immersive multi-day trips into the Mekong. The list below features options for every interest: history buffs, food lovers, family travelers, or those seeking adventure. Read on to find the perfect experience for your trip.

1. From Ho Chi Minh City: Mekong Delta Small Group Tour

This small-group tour offers a taste of Southern Vietnam’s iconic waterways, with a mix of boat rides, village walks, and cultural sights. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, it takes you along scenic sampan rides through tranquil canals, visiting coconut farms, and exploring Vinh Trang pagoda’s architectural blend. The tour emphasizes authentic interactions with locals—cruising on motorboats, sampling tropical fruits, honey tea, and coconut candy, and enjoying a local lunch.

What makes this tour special is its intimate size—so you get personalized stories from guides who know the region well. With over 11,000 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, it’s proven popular for its value and genuine experience. It’s perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed day immersed in local life without breaking the bank.

Bottom line: Great for those who want a balanced, comfortable introduction to the Mekong Delta at an affordable price.

2. Saigon: Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike

If you want to experience Vietnam’s flavors on the move, this 4.9-star rated tour is hard to beat. For around $27, you’ll ride on the back of a scooter through different districts, sampling Banh Mi, sugarcane juice, flan, and banana crackers. The tour covers city highlights and lesser-known local favorites, with stops at bustling markets and hidden eateries.

The reviewers love how guides share fascinating insights about local culture, and how the scooter rides feel safe and fun. Expect to get a real taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s diversity, all in 3-4 hours. It’s ideal for adventurous eaters and those short on time but eager for authentic flavors.

Bottom line: Perfect for curious foodies who want a fast-paced, flavorful overview of Saigon’s street scene.

3. Ho Chi Minh: Full-Day Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta Tour

This luxury full-day trip combines two of the region’s most famous sights: the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta. Starting from Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll crawl through the intricate network of underground tunnels that played a pivotal role during the Vietnam War, then enjoy a set Vietnamese lunch. In the afternoon, explore charming island villages, take a sampan ride, and sample tropical fruits.

What separates this tour is the comfortable transportation and the balance of history, culture, and scenery. It appeals to travelers wanting a comprehensive day without feeling rushed. Guests comment on the guide’s attentiveness and the excellent value for money at $44.

Bottom line: Ideal for history lovers and families who want a full yet manageable day trip.

4. Ho Chi Minh City: Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings

For a culinary adventure, this Food Tour by Scooter stands out. It offers eleven tastings of authentic Vietnamese dishes, from local street stalls to small restaurants, all while riding through five districts. The guides often include a cooking class, where you’ll try to make Banh Xeo, the crispy pancake.

Rated 5 stars by over 1,500 travelers, it’s praised for its friendly guides, abundant food, and immersive storytelling. The tour’s flexibility and focus on authentic flavors make it perfect for food lovers wanting a hands-on, memorable experience.

Bottom line: Highly recommended for those eager to taste Vietnam’s culinary diversity with local hosts.

5. Saigon: Day-Night Sights & Local Food Tour l Female Option

This evening tour is designed to showcase Saigon’s dynamic nightlife, with an option for female riders in traditional Ao Dai. It includes visits to outdoor markets, ghost apartments, and savoring grilled pork vermicelli and spring rolls. The tour blends sightseeing, food, and local stories into a full evening adventure.

At only $20, it offers excellent value for travelers interested in experiencing both daytime and night scenes. It’s especially suitable for solo travelers or those wanting a relaxed, yet lively program after a day of sightseeing.

Bottom line: A flexible choice for evening explorers who want a mix of cultural sights and delicious street food.

6. Ho Chi Minh City Private Half-Day Tour by U.S Army Jeep

For a quirky, memorable tour, this private Jeep adventure takes you around Ho Chi Minh’s main sights—Reunification Palace, Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and War Remnants Museum—in style. This personalized experience is perfect for families and couples wanting to avoid traffic and see the city in comfort.

Rated 5 stars and costing $71, the tour offers flexibility and unique photo opportunities from the open-air Jeep. Guests love the personal touch and detailed stories shared by guides.

Bottom line: Best suited for those who appreciate comfort, privacy, and a fun way to see the city’s highlights.

7. Mekong Delta Guided Tour from Ho Chi Minh City

This small-group tour explores the Mekong’s scenic waterways, tropical gardens, and local villages. Starting early, it includes a visiting Vinh Trang pagoda, boat rides, and sampling local foods and music. It’s praised for its well-organized itinerary and friendly guides.

Costing $18, it delivers a full day of culture, with visits to coconut workshops and traditional markets. It’s especially good for travelers who want a relaxed, authentic experience with a small group atmosphere.

Bottom line: A great choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking rich Mekong experiences.

8. Saigon: City Highlights and Saigon Unseen Scooter Combo Tour

This 3.5-hour scooter tour covers every corner of five districts, including ancient temples and Chinatown. It’s perfect for travelers who want a fast-paced, rundown of Saigon’s more offbeat spots.

Rated 4.9 stars, reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides and the thrill of zooming through busy streets. The tour balances iconic sights with lesser-known places, offering a good mix of both.

Bottom line: Ideal for those who want to see a lot quickly, with a local’s perspective.

9. Saigon Evening Food Tour by Scooter

This private 4-hour night tour takes you to seven different Vietnamese dishes, including street food and local restaurants. Traveling on a scooter, you’ll explore various districts, sampling Bun Thit Nuong and other specialties, all guided by friendly locals.

Rated 5 stars, travelers rave about how the guides make food and culture accessible and fun. It’s perfect for those wanting a full culinary experience after sunset.

Bottom line: Great for food lovers who want a flavorful, relaxed evening outing.

10. Small-group Mekong Floating Market Day Trip

This 11-hour day trip offers a classic Mekong experience—floating markets, boat rides, and local workshops. It includes food tastings, live music, and visits to coconut workshops and fruit gardens. It’s designed for travelers wanting an authentic, all-in-one Mekong experience.

Rated 5 stars, with over 880 reviews, it’s praised for its well-organized itinerary and friendly guides. The trip is ideal for those who love immersive, full-day adventures.

Bottom line: Perfect for travelers seeking variety and a well-rounded Mekong experience.

11. Discover Cu Chi Tunnels & Mekong Delta Full-Day

This 10-hour group tour combines history and scenery with visits to the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta. It features private transport, an included lunch, and stops at key sights like My Tho and Cai Be.

Rated 5 stars, travelers appreciate the comfortable logistics and the knowledgeable guides. It’s suitable for those wanting a comprehensive day that balances war history and river life.

Bottom line: Excellent for first-timers who want a complete overview of southern Vietnam.

12. Cai Rang Floating Market & Mekong Delta 2-Day Tour from HCM City

For those with time, this 2-day tour includes overnight accommodation, boat excursions, and market visits. It’s perfect for travelers who want to relax and explore leisurely.

Rated 5 stars, travelers love the insider access to floating markets and authentic homestays. It’s ideal for those seeking a deep dive into local life, with a relaxed pace.

Bottom line: Great for first-time visitors or those wanting a comprehensive, immersive Mekong experience.

13. Cu Chi Tunnels and Mekong Delta 1 Day From Ho Chi Minh City

This group tour efficiently combines Cu Chi and Mekong in a 10-hour trip. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off, an included lunch, and guided visits to tunnels and villages.

Rated 5 stars, feedback highlights the smooth logistics and the friendly guides. It’s a good choice for travelers who want to cover both sites without overextending.

Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a cost-effective, all-in-one day out.

14. Saigon Afternoon Unseen Street Food by Scooter |Opt: Ao Dai Rider

This 4-hour private tour offers all food and drinks, plus visits to flower markets, local eateries, and historical sites. Riding on a scooter, you’ll experience Saigon’s less touristy areas while tasting authentic street food like Banh Xeo.

Rated 5 stars, travelers enjoy the personalized experience and the chance to see everyday life beyond the usual sights.

Bottom line: Best suited for food-focused travelers who want a relaxed, personalized exploration.

15. Private Cu Chi Tunnels Half Day Adventure Tour

This half-day private tour offers personalized attention while exploring the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. With a dedicated guide, you’ll crawl through tunnels, learn about their wartime role, and enjoy a light meal or drink afterward.

Rated 5 stars, it’s ideal for travelers wanting a more intimate and flexible experience, especially for those with limited time.

Bottom line: Excellent for history buffs or those seeking a customized, less rushed visit.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

When selecting your ideal Ho Chi Minh City experience, consider your interests, schedule, and budget. For history enthusiasts, the Cu Chi Tunnels or full-day combo provide deep insights. Food lovers should explore street food tours, which make every bite count. For a relaxed pace, the small-group Mekong or overnight floating market tour offer immersion without rushing.

Budget-conscious travelers might prefer shorter, focused trips like the half-day jeep or the small-group Mekong. Those with limited time can choose the city highlights scooter tour or evening food tour. Booking early is advised, especially for popular experiences like the Cai Rang Floating Market.

To sum it up, Ho Chi Minh City offers a dazzling array of tours and experiences—from cultural deep dives and historical explorations to culinary adventures and scenic river cruises. If you’re after a well-rounded introduction, the full-day Cu Chi and Mekong provides a rundown. For foodies, the Eleven Tastings scooter tour guarantees delicious memories. And if your goal is a fun, private exploration, the Jeep tour offers both style and comfort.

Whatever your budget or interests, Ho Chi Minh City will not disappoint. Book early, plan your favorites, and prepare for a memorable Vietnamese adventure.