Ho Chi Minh City is a lively hub where culinary traditions pulse at every corner. Unlike some cities where cooking classes are staged for travelers, here you can find truly immersive experiences that take you beyond the kitchen—onto lively markets, scenic countryside, and even floating markets. One of my favorites is the Small-group Mekong Delta Day Trip because it combines a scenic boat ride with a local home cooking demonstration, offering a fresh perspective on regional cuisine and rural life.
If you’re after a more budget-friendly, quick insight into Vietnamese cooking, the Cooking Class with Ben Thanh Market visit provides a hands-on experience that’s perfect for first-timers. For those wanting an extensive exploration, the 2-day Mekong Delta tour includes overnight stays, floating markets, and cycling through scenic villages. Whatever your schedule or interest, Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of culinary adventures.
1. Small-group Mekong Delta Day Trip: Boat Ride, Village & Cooking
At number one, this full-day Mekong trip ranks at the top for its intimate size and authentic experience. For around $60, you get a scenic cruise along the waterways, visits to local cottage industries, and a cooking demonstration in a local home—far from touristy shows. The guide handles all logistics, making it hassle-free to focus on experiencing local life. Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to sample regional specialties like snake wine and exotic fruits.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on interaction—cycling around Cai Be, watching artisans at work, and truly enjoying the Mekong’s culture. The long 8-10 hour day is best suited for curious travelers wanting depth over speed. Expect a well-organized day with excellent reviews like “Stark was fantastic and knowledgeable,” and “The trip is a long day but worth it.” Bottom line: for those after a personal, educational Mekong experience, this trip delivers.
2. HCM: Mekong Delta 4 Islands Boat Tuk Tuk Try KhotCake Cooking
Coming in at number two, this comprehensive 9-hour tour offers a colorful day exploring four islands of the Mekong Delta. For just $15, it’s an excellent value, especially considering the variety of activities—boat rides, visiting Vinh Trang Pagoda, cycling around Unicorn Island, and a cooking session trying Khot Cake. The trip includes boat rides through picturesque canals, folk music, and food tastings, making it perfect for those who want a little of everything and a taste of local life.
Guests love the lively guide, Tom, who makes the history and culture accessible and fun. The tour’s mix of cultural sights and hands-on experiences—like making coconut candy and riding tuk-tuks—appeals to travelers keen on variety. The 4.7-star rating reflects its popularity. Bottom line: budget-conscious travelers who want a full day of Mekong sights and tastes will find this tour hard to beat.
3. Mekong Delta Day Trip: Explore Cycling & Cooking Classes at Farm
At number three, this small-group tour offers an authentic blend of farming, cycling, and cooking—ideal for those who want to connect deeply with local life. For about $30, it includes cycling through orchards and rice fields, participating in a Vietnamese cooking class, and enjoying a BBQ lunch. The tour’s focus on a less touristy experience means fewer crowds and more genuine interactions.
What sets it apart is the combination of outdoor farming activities and a dedicated cooking lesson, with a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for travelers with a free 9-hour window who prefer a hands-on approach. The tour’s 5-star reviews mention the “excellent” organization and “fabulous” guides like Dennis. Bottom line: if you want to learn traditional recipes and enjoy a countryside setting, this tour offers great value.
4. Chef Vu Cooking Class Plus Market Trip in Saigon Center
Number four features a market visit and cooking class that’s ideal for urban explorers. For $46, you start with a cyclo ride to Ben Thanh Market, then learn to prepare authentic Vietnamese dishes in a small, personalized class. Chef Vu’s style is interactive, and the recipes are straightforward, making it perfect for beginners or those short on time.
Guests praise the class for its friendly atmosphere, and many appreciate the detailed explanations of ingredients. The experience ends with a delicious feast and a traditional egg coffee dessert. The class’s limiter of 15 participants ensures plenty of attention. Bottom line: for a true taste of the city’s culinary scene with hands-on instruction, this class hits the sweet spot.
5. Immersive Cooking Class & Wet Market Tour – Chef Led w/ Private Cook Stations
This immersive cooking experience is number five for those who want a culinary deep dive. Starting at Ben Thanh Market, you pick fresh ingredients before following a chef across four iconic dishes, then tasting your creations. For $49, the focus on individual stations encourages hands-on participation and learning new skills.
Rated highly for its friendly guide and clear instruction, this class is suitable for travelers wanting practical cooking techniques they can replicate at home. The inclusion of a Vietnamese cookbook with 25+ recipes is a thoughtful bonus. Bottom line: if you prefer structured, chef-led lessons with market insights, this tour offers excellent value.
6. Immersive Cooking Class & Market Tour By Local Chef+Cookbook
Coming in at number six, this local chef-led class offers a 3-course meal plus dessert for $33. It focuses on introducing travelers to Vietnamese spices and techniques through a guided market visit. Vegetarian options are available, and a beautifully designed cookbook is included.
What makes this tour different is its emphasis on authentic flavors and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere. The guide’s local expertise ensures you learn the nuances of Vietnamese cuisine. The small group size makes it engaging. Bottom line: an affordable way for budding cooks to learn and taste regional favorites.
7. Small-group 2-Day Mekong Delta: Floating Market & Cooking
Number seven offers a comprehensive two-day adventure, perfect for those wanting to see the Mekong’s top sights and learn about local culture. For $170, it includes visits to floating markets, village cycling, an overnight homestay, and cooking lessons. Starting with a river cruise into Cai Rang Floating Market, this tour is ideal for travelers with a couple of days to spare.
Reviews highlight the well-organized itinerary, friendly guide, and the chance to experience authentic Vietnam life firsthand. It’s suited for those who prefer a deep, slow-paced immersion rather than a quick day trip. Bottom line: if you want to really get into Mekong life, this multi-day tour offers great value and insight.
8. Mekong Delta Tour with Cooking and Kayaking
Number eight combines gentle adventure with culinary fun. For $39.69, the water and food tour includes kayaking through waterways, a cooking class, and a small-group experience (limited to 12). The tour is perfect for active travelers who want a mix of relaxation and movement while exploring rural Vietnam.
Guests enjoy the personalized attention and the chance to try local dishes. The kayaking through maze-like waterways is a highlight, as is the intimate setting. Bottom line: ideal for active travelers looking to combine food and water-based adventures.
9. VIP Mekong Delta Cycling-Kayak-Cooking 1 Day
Number nine offers a premium 8-9 hour experience at $38.70, including cycling, kayaking, and a cooking lesson. It’s tailored for travelers who want a full day of varied activities with small groups of up to 10. Starting in Long An Province, it emphasizes authentic local life with visits to orchards, rice fields, and traditional workshops.
The reviews emphasize the engaging guides and the well-paced program. The combination of different activities makes it perfect for adventure-seekers who prefer a physically active day. Bottom line: for a dynamic, small-group adventure, this trip balances culture, cuisine, and outdoor fun.
10. HCM: 2-Day Mekong Delta Floating Market with Cooking & Bike Ride
Number ten covers a more extensive two-day experience. For $66, it includes visits to floating markets, orchard tours, and a bike ride through local villages, plus an overnight stay. The itinerary is packed with activities like honey tea tasting and coconut candy making, giving a comprehensive view of Mekong life.
Rated highly for its seamless logistics and engaging guides like Paige and Hau, the tour appeals to those wanting a deeper connection with the region. It’s especially suited for travelers with a day and a half to spare. Bottom line: this multi-part journey offers excellent value for those after a thorough Mekong experience.
11. Experience half-day cooking class with market visit
Number eleven offers a shorter, beginner-friendly half-day cooking class for $42. This is perfect if you’re tight on time but still want to learn some essentials of Vietnamese cuisine. The class includes a visit to Ben Thanh Market, where you’ll learn about ingredients and spice blends before cooking a meal.
Guests enjoy the friendly chef and simple, tasty recipes. It’s suitable for those new to cooking or travelers who want a quick culinary fix. The class ends with a shared meal, making it a practical, fun experience. Bottom line: a great intro to Vietnamese cooking for busy visits.
12. Cu Chi Tunnels Tour with Cooking Experience for Lunch
Number twelve combines history and cuisine in one day. For $39, you visit the Cu Chi Tunnels, then participate in a cooking class with a local chef, ending with a delicious Vietnamese lunch. The tour offers a fascinating look at underground wartime life and traditional cooking methods.
The visit to Cu Chi is a highlight, with guides explaining the significance of the tunnels. The cooking component allows you to try your hand at preparing dishes. It’s suited for history buffs and food lovers alike. Bottom line: this tour balances education with culinary fun, making it a well-rounded day trip.
13. Vietnamese Cooking Class and Cu Chi Tunnels Tour from Ho Chi Minh City
Number thirteen is a longer, 9.5-hour adventure combining cooking and history. For $81, it includes a visit to an organic farm, a hands-on cooking class, and a trip to the Cu Chi Tunnels. It appeals to travelers seeking a full immersion into Vietnamese culture and cuisine.
Reviews highlight the engaging guide, Alice, and the opportunity to learn about local ingredients and wartime history. It’s ideal for those who want a detailed, educational experience. Bottom line: a comprehensive tour for curious travelers who enjoy both culinary and historical insights.
14. Farm-To-Table Healthy Cooking Class in Ho Chi Minh City
Number fourteen focuses on health-conscious cooking. For $67, this 6.5-hour farm-to-table class takes you into the countryside to pick fresh organic herbs and vegetables, then cook healthy Vietnamese dishes with a master chef.
Rated highly for its informative approach and fresh ingredients, it’s perfect for travelers wanting to learn about nutritious Vietnamese cuisine. The experience ends with enjoying your creations. Bottom line: ideal for health-minded visitors wanting a relaxing, educational culinary experience.
15. Cooking Class with Ben Thanh Market visit
Last on our list, this market-to-table class offers a fun, hands-on approach to Vietnamese cooking for $45. You visit Ben Thanh Market with your chef, learn to select ingredients, then cook and enjoy a three-course meal in a dedicated kitchen.
Guests say it’s well-paced and easy to follow, with excellent guides. It’s great for travelers who want to combine market shopping with cooking. Bottom line: a practical, enjoyable way to learn Vietnamese dishes and pick up kitchen tips.
How to Choose the Best Cooking Class in Ho Chi Minh City
When selecting your ideal culinary experience, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. If you’re after a quick taste and market visit, the half-day class might suit you best. For a deep dive into Mekong life, the 2-day Mekong tour offers a chance to explore floating markets, villages, and local cuisine over multiple days.
Travelers short on time but eager for authentic Vietnamese flavors should prioritize the Chef Vu class, which combines a market trip with a cooking session in just four hours. Budget-conscious diners will appreciate the 4.7-star-rated tour with a full day of fun for only $15.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons, so plan ahead to secure your spot in these popular experiences. Consider your fitness level and interest in outdoor activities—some tours include cycling, kayaking, or farm visits, which require a bit of mobility.
To sum it up, Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide variety of cooking classes and culinary excursions tailored to different tastes and schedules. For a comprehensive Mekong experience, the Small-group Mekong Delta Day Trip combines scenic beauty with culture. If urban exploration appeals, the Chef Vu Market & Cooking Class is a perfect choice.
For those with limited time, the half-day market visit and cooking provides a quick yet authentic taste of Vietnam’s cuisine. And if you’d like to go all-in, the 2-day Mekong tour offers an immersive look at the river’s life and flavors. Booking in advance ensures you won’t miss out on these culinary delights, so pick the experience that matches your appetite for adventure and authentic flavor.