Ho Chi Minh City is a lively place where dinner isn’t just about the food—it’s about the setting, the view, and the experience. With the city’s sparkling skyline, bustling river, and vibrant street life, an evening out can be as memorable as the daytime sightseeing. For instance, the Saigon River Dinner Cruise offers an elegant way to see the city lights while enjoying a Vietnamese buffet, all with hotel transfers included. It’s a relaxing, scenic option for those who want to combine dinner with a bit of sightseeing without the hassle of navigating busy streets. Alternatively, the Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruise blends traditional Vietnamese culture with a scenic cruise, giving a taste of both arts and scenery in one night. Whether you prefer a lively waterside meal or a cultural performance, Ho Chi Minh City delivers.
For our list, we’ve pulled together 15 of the best dinner experiences—from intimate private cruises to lively group tours. Whether you’re after a romantic evening, a family-friendly outing, or an adventure into Vietnam’s traditional arts, there’s something here for every traveler.
Quick Overview
Our selection includes a variety of dinner cruises, cultural shows, and private tours. Some tours, like the Saigon River Dinner Cruise, emphasize scenic views and relaxed dining, perfect for couples or those seeking a peaceful evening. Others, like the Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruise, combine traditional arts with a river cruise for a cultural twist. There are also luxury options, such as the Ben Thanh Princess Cruise, which focus on comfort and style, ideal for celebrating special occasions. For the more energetic, private jeep tours and small-group adventures add a fun, offbeat element to a night out.
Below, you’ll find detailed reviews of each experience, helping you decide which suits your trip style and budget.
1. Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Buffet, Set Menu, Fine Dining (3hrs)
Prebook this 3-hour dinner cruise to ensure a spot on a traditional or modern riverboat. It’s one of the most popular options with a 4.5/5 rating from over 400 reviews, largely because of its relaxed pace and beautiful night views. The cruise departs from District 1, with hotel transfers included, making it easy to enjoy without worrying about logistics. You’ll see iconic sights such as the Bitexco Tower bathed in floodlights, all as you sit at your private table enjoying a Vietnamese buffet dinner. Live traditional or modern music sets the scene, adding an authentic feel. Drinks are at your own expense, but the ambiance and views are worth every penny.
Tour guide and customer feedback highlight how this cruise makes it simple to combine sightseeing with fine dining. One guest called it “truly amazing” and celebrated their birthday here. It’s a peaceful, scenic option best suited for those who want a comfortable, no-fuss evening with a touch of local flair.
Bottom Line: This cruise offers great value for its price, especially for those wanting a classic river experience with hotel pickup.
2. Ho Chi Minh City by Night including Water Puppet Show and Dinner on Cruise
This tour combines Vietnam’s traditional water puppet theater with a night cruise on the Saigon River. For around $82, you get a private driver-guide, a cultural show, and a scenic dinner cruise, making it one of the more immersive options. The show at Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater lasts about an hour and is a vibrant display of Vietnamese folklore, with performances in Vietnamese that are still easy to appreciate through the lively puppetry. Afterwards, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner while drifting past the illuminated city skyline.
Guests love the intimate atmosphere, with reviews mentioning how the puppet show is “something unique to Vietnam” and the cruise provides “fabulous views of Saigon by night.” The combination of arts, culture, and scenery makes it ideal for travelers interested in authentic Vietnamese traditions coupled with a relaxed evening.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture lovers who want an evening that blends entertainment with scenic dining.
3. Mekong 2D1N SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
For travelers craving an overnight escape, this small-group tour takes you deep into the Mekong Delta. It’s a comprehensive experience—visiting bee farms, coconut villages, and floating markets, with the highlight being the traditional Vietnamese BBQ dinner at a cozy homestay. The tour includes boat rides through lush waterways, bike rides through orchards, and participation in local cooking demos. The group is limited to 10 people, which makes for an engaging, intimate atmosphere.
Guests praise the tour guide’s flexibility and the chance to explore local life beyond the city. One reviewer said, “Cu Chi tunnels were my favorite— a must-see,” showing how this tour balances historical sights with rural charm. The value lies in the all-inclusive transportation and authentic activities, making it suitable for those wanting a genuine Mekong experience without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for active travelers eager to spend a night immersed in Mekong life with memorable local cuisine.
4. Saigon Evening: Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruise Experience
This 4-hour evening experience combines a traditional water puppet show with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. For $72.86, you’ll enjoy a spectacular puppet performance that tells folk stories through water and wooden puppetry, and then glide past the city’s lit-up landmarks on a classic junk boat. Dinner options include authentic Vietnamese cuisine or Western fares, with live music enhancing the atmosphere. Hotel transfers from District 1 make it convenient.
Guests rave about the puppet show being “a gem” and the cruise offering “fantastic views of the city at night.” The mixture of cultural entertainment and scenic cruising makes it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting a memorable, well-rounded night.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want culture with a relaxing river cruise and good food.
5. Ho Chi Minh: Private City Tour and Dinner Cruise with Buffet
This 3.5-hour private tour offers a short sightseeing trip using a Cyclo or scooter before heading to a riverside dinner cruise. It’s ideal for travelers who want a quick, intimate introduction to the city’s highlights with a romantic dinner on the water. Highlights include nighttime views of City Hall, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market. The buffet dinner features Vietnamese dishes and a lively Vietnamese dance show adds entertainment.
Guests appreciate the flexibility, with one reviewer noting, “Brilliant and value for money.” The combination of a street-level tour and a scenic river cruise makes this perfect for couples or small groups wanting a personalized experience.
Bottom Line: Good for an efficient, romantic night combining city sights and dinner.
6. Water Puppet Show And Dinner Cruise On Saigon River Private Tour
This 3-hour private tour is all about culture and scenery. It starts with the Water Puppet Show, a colorful, traditional performance that lasts about 45 minutes. Then, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner while drifting along the Saigon River. The boat, the crew, and the food receive high praise, making it a balanced blend of arts and relaxation, with reviews mentioning the “amazing” puppetry and “delicious” food.
The tour is ideal for travelers wanting a private, culturally rich experience without rushing. The evening provides a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a busy day.
Bottom Line: Offers a private, cultural experience with scenic dining—great for couples or small groups.
7. Ho Chi Minh City: Water Puppet Show and Dinner Cruise
This more affordable option at $68 offers a water puppet performance followed by a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting a cultural highlight without extra frills. The puppet show is a quintessential Vietnamese art form, and the cruise provides scenic views of the city’s skyline at night. It’s a straightforward experience, with the show performed in Vietnamese but still universally enjoyable.
Guests mention the “very good food” and “well-presented” puppets, making it a reliable choice for those interested in traditional arts and scenic dining.
Bottom Line: A good balance of culture and scenery at a reasonable price for those on a budget.
8. Water Puppet Show/Foot Massage – Dinner Cruise Saigon Night Private Tour
For a longer, more relaxing evening, this 5-6 hour private tour offers the choice of water puppet show or spa massage plus a dinner cruise. The package includes a foot or hand massage at Yuri Spa, plus a scenic cruise on the river with buffet dinner and live entertainment. The flexible format appeals to travelers wanting a mix of cultural and wellness experiences.
Tour reviews highlight how the combination of massage and dining creates a perfect wind-down. The experience is suited for those wanting a leisurely, customized night with added relaxation.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a calming evening combining cultural entertainment with wellness.
9. LUXURY Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Tiny Homestay with BBQ Dinner
This luxury overnight tour takes you into the Mekong’s heart with private guides, floating markets, and an elegant BBQ dinner at a small homestay. It’s perfect for travelers who want a premium experience with personalized service. Highlights include visiting coconut candy villages, enjoying home-cooked meals, and exploring the rural countryside by bike or boat.
Guests praise the attentive guides and the chance to see real Mekong life. The price reflects the exclusive nature and included transportation, making it a worthwhile splurge for those seeking a high-end, authentic Mekong adventure.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a luxurious, immersive Mekong experience with comfort and exclusivity.
10. Private Ho Chi Minh by Jeep Evening Tour and Dinner Cruise
This 4-hour private tour combines a jeep ride around illuminated landmarks such as the Opera House and Notre Dame Cathedral with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. It’s perfect for those seeking a stylish, offbeat way to see the city at night. The jeep takes you to hidden spots and iconic sites, while the cruise offers scenic views and an onboard meal.
Guests mention how the personalized jeep tour is “very enjoyable” and suitable for those wanting something different from typical city tours.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers looking for a fun, exclusive way to explore Ho Chi Minh’s nighttime sights.
11. A Glimpse Of Saigon Jeep Night Tour with Dinner
This 3.5-hour tour takes you on an open-air jeep to see Saigon’s colonial architecture and city landmarks like the Central Post Office and Nguyen Hue Street. The tour also includes a river cruise with dinner, making it a versatile way to experience both the city and the water. It’s ideal for travelers who want a combination of sightseeing and scenic dining.
Guests praise the view of the city lights and the “great experience” of riding in an open-air jeep, especially in the cooler evening air.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those wanting a comprehensive night tour with a fun twist.
12. Ben Thanh Princess Luxurious Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
This luxurious cruise offers a 2-hour scenic ride across the Saigon River, with elegant decor and live music. The Ben Thanh Princess is suited for romantic evenings or special celebrations, with options for local and international dishes during the cruise. The high-quality service and beautiful setting make it stand out.
One reviewer describes the experience as “a beautiful evening,” emphasizing the combination of scenic views and excellent food. It’s best suited for travelers seeking comfort and style with a touch of romance.
Bottom Line: An upscale choice for couples celebrating a special night or those wanting a refined dinner cruise.
13. A O Show Lune Production & Dinner Cruise Tour In Ho Chi Minh City
This 4-hour experience pairs the A O Show, a unique blend of bamboo circus, acrobatics, and contemporary dance, with a dinner cruise on the Saigon River. The show’s vibrant acts provide a modern take on Vietnamese culture, with the cruise offering scenic city views at night. The performance is in the evening, starting with the show at 6 pm and finishing with dinner on the water.
Guests describe the show as “amazing” and the cruise as “fantastic,” making it perfect for travelers interested in modern arts combined with scenic dining. It is especially good for those seeking a lively, memorable night out.
Bottom Line: Offers a dynamic cultural experience fused with scenic river views—ideal for art lovers.
14. Exploring Ben Thanh Princess Dining Cruise in Ho Chi Minh
A more casual, 2-hour cruise with local and international dishes served onboard. This Ben Thanh Princess cruise is praised for its seamless boarding and lively entertainment. It’s suited for travelers wanting a straightforward, enjoyable evening with scenic views and good food.
Reviewers note how “the meal was delicious” and the live band created a relaxing atmosphere. It’s best for those wanting a shorter, relaxed cruise experience.
Bottom Line: Great for a quick, enjoyable night with scenic views and entertainment.
15. Saigon River Dinner Cruise with Live Music
This 3-hour cruise offers a delicious mix of Eurasian and Vietnamese dishes with live music performances onboard. It provides a cozy, festive atmosphere and is perfect for celebrating or just relaxing after a busy day. The hotel transfers make it easy to enjoy without stress.
Guests mention the “great food” and “friendly staff,” with the city skyline lit up at night as a stunning backdrop. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a lively, musical evening on the water.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a fun, musical night with scenic views and good food.
How to Choose Your Perfect Dinner Experience
When deciding on the right dinner experience in Ho Chi Minh City, consider your priorities. If you’re after scenic views and relaxation, the Saigon River Dinner Cruise offers a classic, elegant experience. For a taste of Vietnamese culture, the Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruise combines art and scenery beautifully.
If you want luxury and romance, look into the Ben Thanh Princess Cruise, while those seeking a cultural showcase with a modern twist should consider the A O Show & Dinner Cruise. Budget-conscious travelers may prefer the Saigon River Dinner Cruise with Live Music, which offers a lively atmosphere at a lower price point.
Think about your interest in arts, culture, scenery, or romantic ambiance. Also, check the duration—some tours are short and lively, while others span a whole evening. Booking early is advisable, especially for popular options like the Luxury Mekong 2 Days 1 Night, if you want to combine a river cruise with an overnight stay.
Final Thoughts
From scenic river cruises to cultural shows and luxurious dining, Ho Chi Minh City offers a rich variety of dinner experiences. If you’re after a relaxing night with iconic skyline views, the Saigon River Dinner Cruise is tough to beat. For a cultural hit, the Water Puppet Show & Dinner Cruise combines traditional arts with scenic relaxation.
Travelers who want a touch of adventure or exclusivity should consider private tours like the Private Ho Chi Minh by Jeep Evening Tour, which blend sightseeing with a romantic dinner. Whatever your style, booking early will ensure you secure your spot on the most sought-after experiences.
Enjoy your meal, the city lights, and the unforgettable flavors of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant nightlife.