The Coolest Vegan Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City

This experience made our article of 13 Of The Best Vegan & Vegetarian Tours In Ho Chi Minh City.

An Authentic Taste of Ho Chi Minh City’s Vegan Scene

If you’re heading to Ho Chi Minh City and want to explore its bustling streets through a culinary lens, the Vegan Food Tour offered by Saigon Vibes is a fantastic choice. For $29, you get about four hours of lively discovery, covering some of the city’s most vibrant markets, hidden alleys, and iconic eateries—all on the back of a motorbike.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s led by guides who are not only friendly but deeply knowledgeable about Vietnamese cuisine and culture. Second, the tour packs in nine recommended vegan dishes that you might never find on your own, from traditional noodle soups to street-side grilled bananas.

A potential consideration? The pace is fast and the traffic wild—you’re on scooters weaving through the lively streets, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with energetic, urban adventures.

If you love authentic local food, enjoy a bit of adrenaline, and want an insider’s perspective on Ho Chi Minh’s food scene, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s especially great for curious travelers eager to experience the city beyond the usual tourist spots.

Key Points

• Affordable & Value-Packed: Four hours and nine dishes for just $29.
• Authentic Experience: Local markets, hidden alleys, and traditional street foods.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Mac and Jack are praised for their knowledge and friendliness.
• Vibrant Transportation: Riding on a motorcycle through busy streets adds excitement.
• Food Variety: Includes everything from noodle soups and spring rolls to sweet soups and grilled bananas.
• Flexible & Personalized: The menu may vary slightly depending on daily availability.

Exploring Ho Chi Minh City by Scooter

This tour’s main appeal is the lively journey through Ho Chi Minh City’s streets. Starting at the Saigon Opera House, the experience immediately immerses you into the city’s energetic vibe. Once on the back of a scooter, you’ll cruise through vibrant districts, visiting markets, local neighborhoods, and iconic spots like Le Van Tam Park and the Ho Thi Ky Flower Market.

Guided by seasoned scooter drivers, you’ll navigate the bustling traffic—an experience in itself. Many reviews highlight how skillful guides like Mac and Jack enhance the ride, making it safer and more enjoyable. Expect to be part of a small group, with a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps create a friendly, intimate atmosphere.

Why the scooter ride is a highlight

Traveling by scooter offers a unique perspective on the city’s daily life. You’ll see street vendors, lively markets, and colorful flowers up close, often from within the narrow streets or hidden alleys that most travelers miss. It’s a whirlwind adventure, but the guides’ expertise means you’ll always feel safe and in good hands.

The Food Stops: A Deep Dive Into Saigon’s Vegan Flavors

Stop 1: Le Van Tam Park and Lotus Salad

Your journey begins with a refreshing kumquat coconut or pineapple jam, setting the tone for the culinary delights ahead. The tour features a signature dish—vegan papaya or lotus salad—which is exclusive to this experience. Travelers rave about how this dish gives a taste of local freshness and vibrant flavors, with one reviewer noting, “We really did get amongst the locals.”

Stop 2: Nguyen Thien Thuat Apartment Buildings & Bun Bo Hue

Next, you’ll stroll through one of Vietnam’s oldest box apartment complexes, dating back to the Vietnam War era. Here, you’ll sample Vegan Bun Bo Hue, a plant-based version of a traditional spicy beef noodle soup. Many mention the guides’ stories that bring these historical sites to life, making it more than just food tasting.

Stop 3: Ho Thi Ky Flower Market and Street Food

The largest flower market in Ho Chi Minh City is a feast for the senses. As you wander among thousands of blossoms, you’ll also sample street foods like sweet grilled rice paper, Vegan Bánh Xèo (crispy rice pancakes), and Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls). The market’s lively atmosphere and colorful displays leave a lasting impression. One guest remarked, “The flower market alone is worth the trip—so vibrant and full of life.”

Stop 4: District 10 & Hands-On Banh Mi

Venture into District 10, an area known as part of Chinatown, where you’ll get to make your own Bánh Mì—a classic Vietnamese street sandwich. This interactive component is especially fun and offers insight into local food prep. You’ll also enjoy Vietnamese sweet soup—a traditional dessert that many find unexpectedly delightful.

Stop 5: Saigon Opera House & The Sum Up

The tour wraps up near the Saigon Opera House, where guides often drop you off at your hotel or at the starting point. Many reviews praise the guides’ friendliness and local tips, making this ending feel natural and relaxed.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Transportation & Group Size: The scooter ride is the core of this experience, providing an exciting way to traverse Saigon’s busy streets. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring personalized attention and a lively atmosphere.

Duration & Flexibility: Lasting around four hours, the tour offers plenty of time for tasting, sightseeing, and interacting with locals. The menu may vary slightly depending on daily availability, adding an element of surprise.

Guides & Local Insights: Guides like Kelly, Jack, and Mac earn high praise for their knowledge and friendliness. They don’t just tell you what you’re eating—they share stories, cultural context, and tips that deepen your understanding of Vietnamese life.

Cost & Value: At $29, this tour offers a lot—nine dishes, market visits, and a fun scooter ride. Based on reviews, many travelers feel it’s excellent value, especially given the authentic experiences and insider access.

Authenticity and Practical Tips

This tour shines in offering a genuinely local experience. Visiting markets, hidden alleys, and street vendors means you’re seeing the real Saigon, not just tourist spots. Many reviewers appreciated the chance to try foods they might not find on their own—like the specialized vegan versions of traditional dishes.

A few practical tips: Bring your own water bottle—several travelers suggest this to stay hydrated. Be prepared for the noise and chaos of city traffic—if you’re squeamish about riding in busy streets, this might be a challenge. Also, wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for walking and some mild outdoor activity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re vegan or plant-based and eager to explore Vietnam’s street food scene, this tour is a treasure trove. It’s also great for adventurous souls comfortable on scooters and eager to experience the city like a local. Food lovers who enjoy interactive experiences, such as making their own Bánh Mì, will find this particularly rewarding.

People interested in local markets, cultural insights, and street food will find the tour both educational and delicious. It’s ideal for those who value guides with inside knowledge and want to avoid tourist traps, instead discovering hidden gems of Ho Chi Minh City.

The Sum Up

This vegan food scooter tour offers a compelling way to explore Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant street life and authentic culinary scene. For $29, you gain access to a mix of markets, street foods, and cultural landmarks, all led by guides praised for their friendliness and expertise. It’s a fantastic choice for foodies, curious travelers, and those ready for a bit of motorbike adventure.

The combination of delicious vegan dishes, local market visits, and the exhilarating scooter ride makes this experience both memorable and valuable. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers who want an insider’s look at Saigon’s food scene while enjoying a lively, engaging tour.

If you’re seeking an authentic, fun, and affordable way to understand Ho Chi Minh City’s food culture, this tour will not disappoint. Just remember to hold on tight, keep your camera ready, and prepare to eat well.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians who are not vegan?
Yes, many reviews mention guides like Duy catering to non-vegan preferences, making the experience flexible for different diets.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about four hours, including visits to markets, tasting stops, and the scooter ride.

What is included in the price?
The cost covers nine vegan dishes, market visits, and the scooter transportation with guides.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance and receive a full refund.

Is transportation provided from my hotel?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation is offered, making the start and end points convenient.

What should I wear for the tour?
Comfortable clothes suitable for outdoor activity and weather conditions. Bring a water bottle and sunglasses if needed.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
It’s best for those comfortable with scooter riding and walking in markets. The lively traffic and outdoor activity might be challenging for some.

Whether you’re a vegan foodie or an adventurous traveler eager to see Saigon from a new angle, this tour promises an energetic, flavorful day packed with authentic experiences.