Vietnam stands out as a top destination for city tours thanks to its lively streets, diverse architecture, and deep cultural roots. Whether you’re wandering through Da Nang’s marble caves or exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s wartime landmarks, the country’s cities are bursting with stories and flavor. We particularly enjoy the Ho Chi Minh City: Extreme Food Tour On Scooter for its daring culinary discoveries and the KISSTOUR Saigon Motorbike Tour for its energetic, personalized approach—both offer authentic insights into Vietnam’s lively street life.
Exploring Vietnam’s cities lets you see history, taste unforgettable food, and meet friendly locals, all in a surprisingly compact space. These tours showcase different aspects of city life, from cultural landmarks to bustling markets, making your trip more memorable and meaningful.
1. Da Nang: Private Half-day City Highlights Tour
At number 1, this Da Nang: Private Half-day City Highlights Tour offers a perfect introduction to Vietnam’s third-largest city. For $87 per person, you’ll get a well-paced, half-day journey that hits key sights like the Marble Mountains, Linh Ung Pagoda, and Han Market. This tour is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see the essentials. The guide takes you inside caves and temples at the Marble Mountains, revealing the spiritual and natural beauty of this unique site.
The highlight is the Lady Buddha at Linh Ung Pagoda, seen from above, offering a peaceful moment and great photo opportunities. The Cham Museum provides insight into Vietnam’s ancient Cham civilization, adding cultural depth. Visiting Han Market immerses you in local life, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off makes this hassle-free.
This tour suits first-time visitors wanting a balanced mix of history, culture, and local flavor without feeling rushed. It’s an excellent value for travelers on a half-day schedule looking for a rundown. The guide’s local expertise ensures you get the most out of your brief time.
Bottom Line: A compact, cultural snapshot of Da Nang, perfect for those wanting a well-organized, insightful experience.
$87 per person
2. From Phu My Port/ Nha Rong Port: Explore Ho Chi Minh City
Number 2 on our list is the From Phu My Port/ Nha Rong Port: Explore Ho Chi Minh City, rated a solid 5/5. For $149, this 6-hour tour takes you through the must-see sights of Saigon, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a thorough city overview. The itinerary includes bustling Ben Thanh Market, where you can soak in the chaos and grab some street snacks.
The Jade Emperor Pagoda offers a peek into Vietnam’s spiritual practices, while the Saigon Central Post Office showcases stunning French colonial architecture. The War Remnants Museum gives a sobering look at Vietnam’s recent past, making this tour more than just sightseeing—it’s an educational experience. The tour also visits the elegant rooms of the French-era Reunification Palace.
The guide’s in-depth commentary and well-chosen stops make this tour stand out. Visitors often praise the balance of historical insight and lively market experience, giving a comprehensive picture of Ho Chi Minh City’s complexity. It’s perfect for travelers who want a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: An engaging, well-rounded introduction to Saigon’s history, culture, and daily life—great for first-timers who want to make the most of their day.
$149 per person
3. Half Day Historical Saigon City Tour Group/Private
Coming in at number 3, the Half Day Historical Saigon City Tour offers a budget-friendly look at Vietnam’s southern capital for just $28 per person. This tour zeros in on Saigon’s most iconic landmarks like the Reunification Palace, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the War Remnants Museum.
What makes this tour interesting is its focus on historical sights that shaped the city. The Reunification Palace’s preserved rooms provide a window into Vietnam’s recent political history, while the Notre Dame Cathedral’s impressive façade offers a peaceful moment amid the busy streets. The War Remnants Museum is an emotionally powerful place that offers a different perspective of the conflicts that shaped Vietnam.
Guides are knowledgeable, and the tour is flexible, often available as a private or group experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers looking for a quick, affordable overview without sacrificing key landmarks. While it doesn’t include some wider cultural experiences, the focus on history ensures you’ll gain meaningful insights.
Bottom Line: An economical way to see Saigon’s main historical sights, ideal for those with limited time or budget.
$28 per person
4. Ho Chi Minh City: Extreme Food Tour On Scooter
Number 4 is the Extreme Food Tour On Scooter, priced at $50 per person. This four-hour adventure is for those eager to taste Saigon’s most unusual and overlooked dishes. Led by a local guide, you’ll cruise through the city’s streets on a scooter, visiting hidden food spots and sampling flavors you won’t find in typical tourist menus.
The tour includes stops at local restaurants for street food, local snacks, and food markets, with an emphasis on strange and exotic dishes. Highlights include savoring unique flavors and learning about Vietnam’s culinary traditions firsthand. The itinerary features multiple stops—each offering a different taste of Saigon’s vibrant food scene, from a secret stop with street food and beer to a hidden gem for cocktails and desserts.
Guests often say it’s a “must-do for adventurous foodies” and praise the guide’s knowledge and enthusiasm. The combination of riding through the city and tasting authentic dishes gives a sense of local life that’s hard to match in a traditional walking tour. However, be prepared for some spicy surprises and a fast pace.
Bottom Line: For travelers who want a spicy, lively, and authentic food experience, this scooter tour offers a memorable culinary adventure.
$50 per person
5. KISSTOUR | Saigon Half Day City Tour on Motorbike
Finally, the KISSTOUR Saigon Half Day City Tour on Motorbike combines fun with flexibility for $55 per person. It’s perfect for those looking for a customizable, immersive experience riding through the city’s streets on a scooter. The tour covers many iconic buildings and landmarks, such as the Bitexco Tower and Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral.
What makes this tour unique is its full customization—you can choose your favorite sites, making it highly adaptable. The guide is experienced at navigating the busy traffic, allowing you to relax and truly soak in the sights and sounds of Saigon. It’s ideal for travelers who want a personalized tour with a lively, local feel, rather than a rigid itinerary. Guests enjoy the informal, engaging atmosphere and the chance to see the city from a perspective only motorbikes can provide.
Some reviews mention the guide’s local knowledge and the fun of the ride—”It’s like having a local friend show you around the city.” The tour is relatively short but packed with highlights, making it suitable for those with limited time but a desire for a lively, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: A flexible, fun way to explore Saigon with a local guide, perfect for adventure seekers wanting a tailored experience.
$55 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Vietnam City Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your budget, schedule, and interests. If you’re pressed for time but want a thorough overview, the Da NangHighlights Tour is a solid choice. For a deep dive into Saigon’s history, the Half Day Historical Tour offers an economical yet insightful experience.
For food lovers seeking adventure, the Extreme Food Tour on Scooter provides a lively, authentic taste of Vietnam’s culinary scene. Those who want a personalized, energetic exploration can’t go wrong with the Saigon Motorbike Tour.
In choosing, think about your comfort level with riding scooters, your curiosity about history or food, and your overall travel style. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Vietnam’s cities are vibrant, complex, and full of surprises. Whether you prefer a peaceful half-day sightseeing tour or an adventurous scooter ride, there’s an experience tailored to your style. For history buffs, the Saigon landmarks tour offers a meaningful glance into the past. Foodies will love exploring the city’s flavors with the Extreme Food Tour on Scooter.
For the best value, consider your interests and budget, and don’t hesitate to book ahead. Whatever your choice, these tours promise a genuine, lively look at Vietnam’s bustling urban life—perfect for making your trip memorable.