Saigon Private/Small Group Walking Food Tour with 13 Tastings

A Taste of Authentic Ho Chi Minh City: Saigon Private/Small Group Walking Food Tour

If you’re after a genuine flavor of Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene without hopping on a motorbike, this Private/Small Group Walking Food Tour is a fantastic choice. For just $29, you’ll spend about three and a half hours exploring districts 3, 10, and 5—home to some of the most authentic neighborhoods and bustling markets.

What makes this experience stand out? We love how it combines delicious tasting stops with cultural insights, the peaceful walking pace amidst busy streets, and the friendly, well-trained guides who are passionate about sharing local stories. Plus, the inclusion of a mini cooking class for bánh xèo adds a fun, hands-on element.

One thing to keep in mind: the tour is quite comprehensive, so wear comfortable shoes and be ready to walk through lively alleys and markets. It’s perfect for food lovers, families, or anyone who prefers a relaxed, non-motorized way to discover the city’s flavors. If you’re curious about local cuisine and want a safe, engaging way to see Saigon, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Key Points

• Authentic Neighborhoods: Experience districts 3, 10, and 5, known for their local charm and bustling markets.
• Diverse Tastings: Enjoy 13 different dishes and drinks, from noodle soups to grilled rice paper and sweet potatoes.
• Expert Guides: Friendly, knowledgeable guides fluent in English share food stories and city insights.
• Inclusive Experience: Pickup, bottled water, and all tastings are included, making for a hassle-free day.
• Comfortable Walk: The tour involves walking through hidden alleys, markets, and neighborhoods—no motorbikes needed.
• Great Value: Only $29 per person for a rich, authentic food experience that would cost much more eating out individually.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Nguyen Thien Thuat Apartment Buildings

The tour kicks off in a charming, lesser-known part of the city—an old apartment area where you’ll stroll through narrow alleys filled with local life. Our guide, Vy, quickly impressed us with her energy and a wealth of knowledge about the area’s history and architecture. As you wander, you’ll get to taste a fish, pork or vegetarian noodle soup, prepared right in front of you. This soup, with flavors built on pork bones, radish, and carrots, offers an authentic taste of everyday Vietnamese comfort food. Reviewers like EB_A shared how Vy’s storytelling made the experience memorable, highlighting her enthusiasm and local expertise.

Flower Market & Street Food in District 10

Next, you’ll visit Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, which buzzes with color and fragrance. It’s a lively spot, where the vibrant blooms contrast with the savory smells wafting from nearby food stalls. Here, you’ll sample Vietnamese pizza (bánh tráng nng)—a crispy grilled rice paper topped with quail’s egg, corn, and pork sausage. Expect to observe how Vietnamese street foods often blend simple ingredients into dishes bursting with flavor.

Other tastings include snails stuffed with minced pork and lemongrass, grilled rice paper cake, and a sweet treat called “balloon” sweet potatoes—a name that hints at their fun, puffy appearance. The guide explains each dish’s ingredients and how they fit into local food culture, making it more than just a tasting experience.

District 10 & 5: A Culinary Journey Deepens

The tour then moves into District 10, where the focus shifts to Bánh xèo—a sizzling savory pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and mung beans. You’ll learn how to make this classic dish in a mini cooking class, which adds a layer of fun and learning. Reviewers like MariaFe_E admired their guide Christian’s storytelling, noting how he shared insights about Ho Chi Minh City’s history alongside food tips.

You’ll also taste grilled beef wrapped in betel leaf, which looks simple but packs a punch with its fresh herbs and flavorful sauce. Other highlights include fried bao buns—a soft dough filled with minced pork and quail eggs—perfect for those who love street snacks.

Wrapping Up in District 5

The final stops are in District 5, also known as Chinatown, where the tour culminates with Saigon’s signature Bánh mì. Filled with pork sausage, pate, herbs, and pickles, this sandwich is a true street food icon. The guide emphasizes how Bánh mì combines French colonial influences with Vietnamese flavors, making it a must-try for visitors.

To end the experience sweetly, you’ll enjoy a variety of caramel flans and sweet soups, with reviewers noting how generous and satisfying these desserts are. The tour ends back at the starting point, leaving you full, happy, and with a deeper appreciation of Saigon’s culinary soul.

Transportation & Group Size

This tour begins with pickup by car (taxi) from your accommodation or a meeting point, easing the logistical side of things. The small-group setup (max 20 travelers) ensures personalized attention and a more intimate vibe. The walking portion tends to be moderate—enough to enjoy the sights without becoming tiring—and the guide is always ready with tips on navigating the city afterward.

Practical Notes on Price & Value

At $29 per person, the tour offers exceptional value—covering all tastings, guided explanations, bottled water, and transportation. Compared to eating independently, where costs can add up quickly for just a few dishes, this package delivers a comprehensive, authentic experience that feels both affordable and rewarding.

Accessibility & Suitability

The tour is suitable for most travelers, including young children and seniors, thanks to its relaxed pace and non-motorized transportation. The inclusion of raincoats and masks when needed is a thoughtful touch, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable, friendly guides—Christian and Vy—who go beyond just serving food, sharing stories and city insights that enrich the experience. Reviewers also appreciated the delicious, plentiful food and the chance to see hidden alleys and markets many visitors wouldn’t discover on their own.

One reviewer noted, “Our guide, Vy, was excellent! She had great energy and gave us tons of good information about the food, the city, and the culture,” which highlights how engaging the guides are. Others mentioned how full they felt by the end, affirming the generous portion sizes and variety.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This guided food tour is perfect if you want to experience authentic Vietnamese street cuisine without the chaos of motorbike rides. It suits travelers who prefer walking at a comfortable pace, enjoy learning about local culture, and value having a friendly, knowledgeable guide by their side. Families, solo travelers, and food lovers will find it particularly rewarding.

If you’re curious to explore Saigon’s hidden food gems, want a well-organized day with all logistics handled, and love tasting a wide variety of dishes, this tour ticks all the boxes.

The Sum Up

This walking food tour in Ho Chi Minh City offers an engaging, flavor-packed way to see the city. Thanks to expert guides, a mix of hidden alleyways, bustling markets, and authentic street eats, you’ll come away feeling like a local and full of delicious memories.

It’s an especially good option for those who prefer a relaxed, safe, and comprehensive experience—no motorbikes, just good company and great food. The value for money is excellent considering all tastings and transportation are included, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to understand Saigon’s culinary culture.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour will deepen your appreciation for the city’s vibrant street food scene, all while enjoying a friendly, lively atmosphere.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup and drop-off by car (taxi) are included for those staying in districts 1, 3, and 4. For meeting point options, you will need to arrange your own transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering multiple districts and food stops.

Are all tastings included in the price?
Yes, all 13 tastings and 3-4 drinks are included in the $29 price, which makes it excellent value.

Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?
Absolutely. It’s a walking tour with a relaxed pace, making it accessible for families, elder travelers, or anyone wanting a gentle exploration.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The tour offers raincoats and masks if needed, so be prepared for weather changes.

Can I join if I don’t like spicy food?
Most dishes are traditional Vietnamese street foods, but your guide can usually advise on milder options if you mention preferences.

Is there a cooking component?
Yes, there’s a small cooking class where you make your own bánh xèo, adding a fun, interactive element.

Do I need to tip the guides?
Tipping is not included but appreciated if you enjoyed the experience. Guides are passionate about sharing their city with visitors.

What’s the best time to join this tour?
The tour starts at 6:00 pm, perfect for experiencing the lively evening street scene and cooler temperatures.

This walking food tour in Ho Chi Minh City promises a genuine taste of local life, authentic dishes, and insightful guides—making it a standout choice for exploring Saigon’s vibrant street food culture.