Ho Chi Minh: Craft Beer Walk and Talk

Discover Ho Chi Minh’s Craft Beer Scene on a Walk and Talk Tour

If you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and have a taste for good beer, this Craft Beer Walk and Talk offers a refreshing way to explore. For $85 per person, you’ll spend about four hours wandering through District 1, stopping at some of the hottest breweries and beer spots. Led by an expert craft beer host, the tour combines local sightseeing, beer education, and tasting — all in one relaxed afternoon.

What really draws us to this experience are two things: First, the chance to learn about the evolution of beer and appreciate different styles—not just drinking passively but understanding what makes each beer special. Second, the tour’s insider approach to Saigon’s burgeoning craft beer scene, visiting notable locales like East West Brewing, Pasteur Street Brewing, and Heart of Darkness, makes it feel both authentic and exclusive.

A consideration to keep in mind is that the tour starts at Starbucks New World, so if you’re coming from a different part of the city, plan your transport accordingly. Also, since this is a private group experience, it may be less suitable for those craving a large, lively pub crawl. Instead, it appeals to those wanting a more intimate, educational journey with a focus on quality and insight.

This tour suits beer lovers who want to expand their knowledge while discovering the city’s modern culinary and cultural scene. Perfect for travelers who enjoy a mix of walking, tasting, and learning in a relaxed setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Educational focus: Learn about beer styles, history, and the craft movement.
• Top breweries: Visit Saigon’s newest and best craft beer spots.
• Balance of sightseeing and tasting: Enjoy impromptu sightseeing combined with beer tasting and snacks.
• Time-efficient: Finishes early enough for dinner or evening plans.
• Expert guidance: Led by a knowledgeable craft beer host.
• Private group: Provides a more personalized and relaxed experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Ho Chi Minh Craft Beer Walk and Talk

The Itinerary: A Walk Through Saigon’s Emerging Beer Scene

Starting at the Starbucks New World, the tour kicks off with a casual meet-and-greet with your guide. From there, expect a five-brewery circuit, each offering a unique perspective on Vietnam’s craft beer evolution. The stops include East West Brewing Co., Pasteur Street Brewing, and Heart of Darkness.

Each brewery offers a different vibe and beer style—some with a modern, experimental approach, others rooted in traditional brewing techniques. For example, East West Brewing is known for its innovative flavors that blend local ingredients with international styles, while Pasteur Street stands out for its focus on local ingredients and creative brews. As you walk between venues, your guide will share insights about the history of beer, the rise of craft brewing in Vietnam, and what makes these breweries special.

What Makes Each Stop Unique?

• East West Brewing Co.: Here, you’ll find a focus on creative, small-batch beers. The atmosphere is welcoming, with plenty of staff eager to chat about their latest brews.
• Pasteur Street Brewing: This brewery emphasizes local ingredients and innovation, giving you a taste of Vietnamese craft brewing’s fresh, daring side.
• Heart of Darkness: Known for its bold flavors and unique character, this spot often surprises visitors with its inventive beers and lively ambiance.

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Tasting and Snacks

Throughout the tour, you’ll sample 10 small craft beers—enough to give you a good sense of the variety without overdoing it. The beers are complemented with snacks, which help balance the flavors and keep you energized during the walk. As one review notes, “The guide was very attentive, and the snacks were spot-on with the beers.”

Learning Along the Way

This isn’t just about drinking; it’s about understanding beer. Your host will cover topics like different beer styles, how to drink like a professional, and the background of Vietnam’s beer scene. We loved the way the guide explained the discovery and development of beer through history, making each sip more meaningful.

Authenticity is key here. The guide’s insights add depth, especially when discussing the craft beer revolution in Vietnam, which many travelers find fascinating. As one participant put it, “I appreciated how much I learned about the ongoing craft beer movement without feeling overwhelmed.”

What Travelers Say

Multiple reviewers mention the friendly, informal atmosphere and the quality of the beers. One said, “We loved the variety of beers,” while another appreciated the local flavor: “It was great to see Vietnamese breweries making such exciting beers.” The personalized, private group setting is often highlighted as making the experience feel more tailored.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Duration: About 4 hours, starting at various times (check availability).
• Price: $85 per person, which includes 10 beers, snacks, and guidance.
• Meeting Point: Starbucks New World, central and easy to find.
• End Point: Same as the start, making it simple to plan your evening.
• Group Size: Private, which helps keep the experience comfortable and tailored.
• No hotel pickup: Be prepared to meet at the designated spot.

This tour is ideal for those who want a relaxed, educational, and flavorful experience. If you’re a beer enthusiast eager to explore Vietnam’s craft scene or simply enjoy a well-curated tour that balances sightseeing with tasting, this will suit you well. For those who prefer a quick, quick-paced pub crawl, this might feel a bit subdued, but for genuine insight and quality, it hits the mark.

Why It’s Great Value

With carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on quality over quantity, the $85 price offers excellent value. You’re not just drinking; you’re gaining an understanding of Vietnam’s craft brewing resurgence. Plus, the snacks and the personalized guidance make this more than just a casual pub crawl.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beer lovers who want to expand their knowledge in a relaxed setting. It’s also suitable for cultural explorers interested in Vietnam’s modern food and drink scene. If you like learning about local industries and tasting diverse flavors, you’ll find this tour both fun and enriching.

Travelers seeking a leisurely, insider’s look at Saigon’s craft beer movement, especially those who enjoy a mix of education and tasting, will appreciate this tour. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a private, intimate group over large, noisy pub crawls.

The Sum Up

The Ho Chi Minh: Craft Beer Walk and Talk offers a well-balanced experience—combining city strolling, beer tasting, and learning in a friendly, intimate setting. It’s an ideal way to get to know Saigon’s rapidly evolving craft beer scene without rushing, all while gaining a deeper appreciation for what makes Vietnamese brews special.

Whether you’re a seasoned beer connoisseur or just curious about Vietnam’s modern brewing movement, this tour provides both insights and enjoyment. The knowledgeable guides, carefully selected breweries, and the focus on local flavors make it a valuable addition to any Saigon visit.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and flavorful way to spend an afternoon, this craft beer walk will leave you with new favorites, better beer knowledge, and some great stories to tell back home.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for non-beer drinkers?
While it’s primarily focused on craft beer, the guide’s explanations about beer styles and history can be interesting even if you don’t drink. However, the tasting component might be less appealing if you don’t enjoy beer.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about four hours, making it a perfect afternoon activity that leaves you time to enjoy dinner afterward.

Are snacks included?
Yes, the tour includes snacks that pair well with the beers sampled during the walk.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at Starbucks New World, a convenient and central location in District 1.

Are private groups available?
Yes, the tour is designed for private groups, which enhances the personalized experience.

What breweries are visited?
The tour features visits to East West Brewing Co., Pasteur Street Brewing, and Heart of Darkness, among others.

Is there free cancellation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your travel planning.

This walk and talk tour offers a genuine taste of Vietnam’s craft beer scene, wrapped in a friendly, educational package. For those who want to see Saigon in a new way—sipping, learning, and strolling—this experience hits the right notes.

You can check availability for your dates here: