Tea & Coffee Experience

Travelers seeking a genuine taste of Saigon’s vibrant coffee and tea scene will find this private Tea & Coffee Experience offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and authentic flavors. With a top rating of 5.0 from nine reviews, this tour combines visits to iconic cafes, hands-on brewing, and sharing Vietnamese vegetarian dishes—all within a well-paced, five-hour window.

What we love most? The focus on small alleys and local spots rather than touristy cafes, the opportunity to learn from passionate Vietnamese guides, and the chance to craft your own coffee using traditional equipment. Plus, the pairing of tea tasting with deep conversations adds a relaxing, almost meditative vibe. One potential drawback? For some, the itinerary might feel a bit condensed, especially if you’re a slow sipper or avid coffee enthusiast wanting to linger longer.

This experience suits curious travelers who want more than just sightseeing—they’re eager to understand Saigon’s daily rituals and enjoy meaningful interactions. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a tea devotee, or just someone who loves flavorful vegetarian food, this tour promises a memorable, authentic slice of Vietnamese life.

Key Points

Authentic local spots: The tour visits historic cafes and hidden alleys, offering a genuine vibe.
Hands-on experiences: You’ll learn to brew Vietnamese coffee and Asian tea with expert guidance.
Cultural insights: Guides share stories that deepen your understanding of Vietnam’s coffee and tea traditions.
Delicious vegetarian lunch: Sharing flavorful dishes in a relaxed setting enhances the community feeling.
Private transportation: A comfortable, personalized journey ensures a stress-free day.
Value for money: For $86, you gain multiple experiences, expert insights, and a deeper connection to Saigon’s culture.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Stop 1: Cheo Leo Cafe – The Oldest Coffee Shop in Saigon

Your journey kicks off at Cheo Leo Cafe, the legendary oldest coffee shop in Saigon. Here, you’ll wander through narrow, lively alleys filled with the aroma of Vietnamese coffee—just as locals do every day. The atmosphere is relaxed yet bustling, immersing you in the fabric of Saigon’s daily life.

What makes this stop special is the chance to taste “phin” coffee—the traditional drip method—and explore unique brewing styles like “cà phê s.a” or “Vt” coffee prepared with a net filter. Reviewers mention the ‘little bitter, a little sweet’ taste that mirrors Saigon’s vibrant yet laid-back pace.

Expect to spend about an hour here, soaking in the sights, sounds, and smells that shape Vietnam’s coffee culture. It’s not just about drinking coffee—it’s about feeling the rhythm of Saigon’s mornings.

Stop 2: Making Vietnamese Coffee with a Phin Filter

Next, you’ll head to a cozy spot in the heart of the city to craft your own Vietnamese coffee using a phin filter. This small, simple metal device is the backbone of Saigon’s coffee scene, and you’ll see why—its slow drip creates a rich, bold brew that pairs perfectly with local condensed milk or just black.

Our guide, An, described as very knowledgeable, will help you perfect your technique. Reviewers highlight the value of this hands-on approach: “You can ask any questions and learn so much more.”

This stop is about 60 minutes long, giving you enough time to experiment, savor your coffee, and understand why Vietnamese coffee is so beloved worldwide. It’s an intimate, educational moment that elevates your appreciation for this daily ritual.

Stop 3: Asian Tea Tasting with a Vietnamese Tea Master

Moving from coffee to tea, you’ll gather for a session led by a Vietnamese tea master. Here, the focus is on learning about different types of tea and tasting aromatic varieties that have been part of Vietnamese culture for generations.

Reviewers mention how this part of the tour is perfect for sparking “simple and profound conversations,” as you take a few sips of tea, inhale the aroma, and reflect. The guide shares insights into the health benefits of tea, along with stories about its significance in Vietnamese life.

Expect this segment to last about an hour. It’s an ideal way to balance the more robust coffee experiences with the calming, contemplative nature of tea.

Stop 4: Sharing Vegetarian Vietnamese Dishes

No culinary tour is complete without tasting local flavors. The final stop involves sharing a flavorful vegetarian meal, prepared with authentic Vietnamese ingredients. This communal dining experience allows for relaxed conversation and genuine connection.

Reviewers rave about the dishes, describing them as delicious and thoughtfully prepared, adding a layer of cultural appreciation to the day. Sharing meals in Vietnam is more than just eating—it’s about community and hospitality.

What’s Included and Why It Matters

This tour offers culinary and culture at a reasonable price of $86 per person. Included are private transportation, tastings of both coffee and tea, a vegetarian lunch, bottled water, and a surprise ending that leaves a memorable impression.

The private setup ensures your experience is personalized, with guides like An, Hung, or Katie sharing their passion and knowledge, making the experience more engaging and informative.

The Value of the Experience

Compared to other tours, this experience emphasizes authenticity and local insights rather than just visiting popular spots. The small, intimate group—only your private party—means more attention from guides and a comfortable environment to ask questions.

The price reflects the quality of the experience: hands-on brewing, detailed explanations, and a genuine taste of Saigon’s coffee and tea life. For travelers who want to go beyond the surface and truly understand Vietnamese customs, it’s a worthwhile investment.

Why We Recommend It

If you’re someone eager to connect with local culture through its daily rituals, this tour delivers. The guides’ passion for coffee and tea, combined with thoughtfully chosen locations, creates a wholesome, memorable experience.

It’s especially suited for visitors who enjoy culinary activities, cultural stories, and sharing communal meals. The focus on vegetarian dishes also makes it an excellent choice for plant-based travelers.

However, those looking for a quick sightseeing tour or a very leisurely pace may find the schedule a little packed, given the tight timing for each stop.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour for You?

This Tea & Coffee Experience is best for travelers who want to deepen their understanding of Saigon’s rich beverage culture while enjoying a personalized, relaxed atmosphere. It’s more than just tasting; it’s about learning, sharing, and connecting through Vietnam’s most beloved drinks.

The tour’s balance between hands-on activities, cultural storytelling, and delicious vegetarian food makes it a well-rounded, meaningful experience. Whether you’re a casual coffee drinker or a dedicated tea lover, the insights and flavors you’ll gather make this tour a worthwhile addition to your Saigon itinerary.

If authenticity, intimacy, and cultural learning appeal to you, this experience offers excellent value and genuine moments you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the included meal features flavorful vegetarian Vietnamese dishes, making it perfect for plant-based travelers.

How long does the entire tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, covering four stops with enough time for each activity without feeling rushed.

Is transportation included?
Yes, private transportation is part of the package, ensuring comfort and convenience between locations.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
No special preparations are needed. Just bring your curiosity and a camera to capture the moments.

Can I customize or request specific experiences?
This is a private tour, so guides can tailor some aspects, like your focus on coffee or tea, based on your interests.

What is the booking notice required?
Most bookings are made about 12 days in advance, and you receive confirmation immediately upon booking.

This tour offers a genuine, immersive look into Saigon’s beloved coffee and tea traditions, paired with authentic food and expert guidance. Perfect for those wanting to connect with local culture in a relaxed, meaningful way.