Amazing night with Saigon Skydeck and local beer tasting

Experience Ho Chi Minh City from the Sky and Savour Local Beers in One Evening

If you’re looking to make your evening in Ho Chi Minh City both memorable and laid-back, this private tour offers a unique combo: panoramic city views from the Saigon Skydeck at the Bitexco Tower, plus an introduction to the city’s local beer scene. At $118.54 per person, and lasting around 4 hours, it’s a compact way to see some of the city’s highlights without the hassle of planning each step yourself. Guides will pick you up from your hotel and handle the logistics, making it easy to relax and focus on the experience.

What we especially like about this tour is the breathtaking view from the 49th floor, where binoculars are provided to get a closer look at the city lights and bustling streets below. Plus, the opportunity to connect with locals over a couple of glasses of beer in a nearby venue offers a genuine taste of Saigon’s nightlife culture.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that the overall experience depends heavily on the guide you get. As reviews show, not every guide is equally enthusiastic or knowledgeable, which can influence your overall enjoyment. This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate flexible, hassle-free outings and are eager to enjoy both sights and local flavors without too much walking or complicated planning.

Key Points

• Panoramic Views: The 49th-floor lookout at Bitexco Tower offers stunning, 360-degree vistas of Ho Chi Minh City at night.
• Local Beer Tasting: Includes two glasses of local beer and a mineral water, with insights into Vietnam’s beer culture.
• Convenient Logistics: Private pickup and drop-off at central hotels streamline your evening.
• Flexible Experience: Guided tour with an option to enjoy the views and drinks at your own pace.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers rave about the views and fun guide, others warn about uninspired guides.
• Ideal for those seeking a relaxed, no-stress way to see the city from above and enjoy local nightlife.

A Closer Look at What This Tour Offers

This tour is designed with simplicity and convenience in mind. After a prompt 5:30 pm pickup from your Ho Chi Minh City hotel, a private vehicle whisks you to the Bitexco Financial Tower. From the moment you step into the elevator, headed straight up to the Saigon Skydeck on the 49th floor, prepare for picture-perfect views. The panoramic windows give you a sweeping perspective of the city’s vibrant lights, busy streets, and distant skyline.

Using binoculars freely is a delightful feature, especially at night when the city lights shimmer across the horizon. One reviewer, Kym H, described the experience as “such a beautiful city on the ground but up high it goes and goes,” highlighting how the view is truly worth the ascent. The Skydeck offers a moment of awe, perfect for photography or simply appreciating how lively and sprawling Ho Chi Minh City really is.

After soaking in the cityscape, the tour continues with a local beer experience at a nearby venue. Here, your guide helps break down the Vietnamese beer culture, explaining why Vietnam has one of the highest beer consumptions in Southeast Asia. You’ll enjoy two glasses of local brew and a mineral water, which provides a chance to mingle, ask questions, and get a sense of Saigon’s nightlife scene. This part of the tour is especially appealing for those wanting an authentic, informal look at local drinking habits rather than a touristy bar crawl.

An Honest Look at the Experience

While many travelers enjoy this blend of sights and flavors, some have expressed disappointment. For instance, one review by Daniel F criticized the guide for seeming “bored and uninterested,” spending much of his time on his phone and providing little information unless asked directly. This highlights the importance of a lively, engaging guide—something that can make or break the experience.

On the positive side, Kym H described the tour as “amazing and worth it,” praising the fun and happy guide and the breathtaking views. She mentioned, “I loved it all so much,” and even plans to return with family and friends, which speaks volumes about the potential for a memorable outing when the guide is enthusiastic.

Is This Tour Worth the Price?

At roughly $118.54, this tour isn’t cheap, but the value depends on what you’re after. The admission fee to the Skydeck is included, which on its own can be expensive if booked separately. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off adds value, especially after a busy day of sightseeing. Also, the inclusive nature of the beer tasting means no surprise extra costs if you want to enjoy a local brew.

However, given the variability in guide quality, it’s wise to consider whether you’re comfortable with the possibility of a less-than-engaging guide. If you’re mainly after the spectacular views and a taste of local beer culture, this tour offers a good balance—just be prepared for some unpredictability.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who prefer organized, no-hassle activities over self-guided exploration. It’s ideal for those wanting to see Ho Chi Minh City from above at night, capture stunning photos, and enjoy a casual introduction to Vietnam’s beer scene. It can also be appealing for first-time visitors who want a quick, comprehensive view of the city’s skyline combined with an authentic nightlife taste.

If you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group seeking a relaxed, guided evening with minimal planning, this tour fits the bill. But if you’re looking for a more in-depth cultural experience or lively guide interaction, you might find it somewhat limited.

The Detailed Breakdown of the Tour

Itinerary and Experience

Start at 5:30 pm with hotel pickup in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Your guide, ideally enthusiastic and knowledgeable, will transport you directly to the Bitexco Financial Tower, a modern landmark recognizable by its distinctive helipad design. The short elevator ride to the 49th floor is part of the thrill, offering a brief but exciting lift that elevates your anticipation.

Once at the Skydeck, the view unfolds like a living postcard. The panoramic windows sweep across the cityscape—bright lights, busy streets, and the sprawling urban fabric. The binoculars provided are perfect for zooming in on specific sights, helping you appreciate details like bustling markets, skyscrapers, and perhaps even some distant boats on the Saigon River.

The views at night are especially enchanting because the city’s lights shimmer and reflect the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh. It’s an experience that, even in a fleeting visit, leaves a strong impression of the city’s scale and vitality.

Continuing with the local beer experience, your guide will lead you to a nearby venue. Here, the focus shifts from towering heights to down-to-earth socializing. The guide shares insights about Vietnam’s beer consumption habits—a country where beer has become a staple—and explains some local drinking customs. Your two glasses of beer, along with bottled water, give you a chance to unwind and chat.

The entire experience lasts roughly four hours, allowing enough time for the sky-high view, the beer tasting, and a relaxed journey back to your hotel.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive early at the Skydeck if possible, to beat the crowds—though most visitors find the evening view worth the wait.
• Bring your camera or smartphone for photos—low-light conditions can make capturing the cityscape challenging but rewarding.
• Dress comfortably; the elevator ride is quick, but the outdoor viewing area can be breezy.
• Ask your guide questions about the city and its culture—an engaged guide can significantly enhance your experience.
• Plan for some downtime after the tour to reflect or explore the nearby area if you’re still eager for more.
• If you’re a beer enthusiast, enjoy the opportunity to taste local brews that are popular in Saigon and learn about Vietnam’s drinking culture firsthand.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour offers a straightforward, enjoyable way to see Ho Chi Minh City from above at night and sample local beers with minimal fuss. It’s best suited for travelers who value convenience, spectacular views, and a casual introduction to Vietnam’s beer culture. If you’re seeking an engaging guide and vibrant storytelling, be prepared to ask questions and help steer the experience.

For those wanting an authentic, laid-back evening with a mix of sightseeing and socializing—without the heavy price tag of private skydeck tickets or complicated logistics—this tour hits a solid middle ground.

However, if you’re prone to guide variability or prefer more interactive or cultural activities, you might want to explore other options or verify the guide beforehand. Overall, it’s a good value for a relaxed, memorable night in Saigon, especially if you’re keen on capturing stunning views and enjoying a cold beer while reflecting on your day.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, the tour provides pickup and drop-off at your hotel in the central part of Ho Chi Minh City, making it very convenient.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately 4 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the views, drinks, and relaxed atmosphere.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers private transportation, an English-speaking guide, admission to the Skydeck, and two glasses of local beer plus a mineral water.

Can I buy additional drinks?
No, only the included beer and water are provided. Extra drinks are not covered or included.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, since it’s private, solo travelers are welcome. It’s a good way to enjoy Saigon’s sights and flavors without a large group.

What if I don’t like beer?
The tour includes two glasses of local beer; if you’re not a beer drinker, you might consider asking your guide if other options are available or simply enjoy the view.

Do I need to make a reservation in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 68 days ahead on average, especially during peak seasons, to ensure availability.

What’s the best time to go?
Late afternoon into evening (around 5:30 pm) is ideal for sunset and night views, which are particularly striking from the Skydeck.

This tour provides a relaxed, scenic, and flavorful slice of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant life. Whether you’re after dazzling cityscapes, local brews, or both, it offers a straightforward way to enjoy a memorable evening in Vietnam’s energetic southern hub.