Ho Chi Minh City is a lively hub that combines mouthwatering street food, bustling markets, and a fascinating mix of old and new districts. Unlike many other destinations, the city’s real charm lies in its flavors, smells, and the stories behind every dish. Whether you’re cruising on the back of a scooter through neon-lit streets or strolling through markets at dusk, the city’s food scene offers an immersive taste of daily Vietnamese life. We love tours like the Saigon: Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike for their lively pace and authentic encounters, and the Ho Chi Minh City: Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings for its diverse tastings across multiple districts. These experiences are perfect for travelers who want more than just a meal — they want a story they can taste.
Quick Overview
Our list features 15 top-rated food tours in Ho Chi Minh City, including motorbike rides, walking explorations, and nighttime adventures. They range from short, relaxed tours to full-evening culinary journeys, with options that include hands-on cooking classes, visits to secret spots, and trips through lively markets. All tours are designed to give you a true flavor of local life, with some highlighting hidden eateries and others showcasing spectacular city views at sunset. Dive into the list below to find the perfect match for your appetite and schedule.
1. Saigon: Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike
At number 1, this popular motorbike tour combines sightseeing with food tasting—perfect for those who want to see both the city and its flavors in a few hours. Over 3-4 hours, you’ll hop on the back of a scooter and visit local restaurants and street stalls, sampling dishes like Banh Mi, sugarcane juice, flan, and banana crackers. The tour balances city highlights with hidden gems, giving you an authentic feel of Saigon’s diverse cuisine. What makes it stand out are the enthusiastic guides who share stories of Vietnamese culture and history while you eat and ride. The reviews rave about how safe and fun the experience is, with one saying, “I loved going to local shops and learning about the districts.” For a quick but comprehensive taste of Saigon, this is a top pick.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers short on time who want a lively, safe, and authentic experience with lots of tastings and local insights.
2. Ho Chi Minh City: Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings
Number 2 on our list is the Scooter Food Tour with Eleven Tastings, which gets a perfect 5-star rating from over 1,500 reviews. During this 4-hour ride, you’ll explore five districts on a classic scooter, visiting hidden stalls and local markets. The tour includes a small cooking class where you’ll try your hand at making Banh Xeo, the crispy Vietnamese pancake. The variety of traditional dishes you’ll sample — including Banh Mi, noodle soups, and street snacks — makes it stand out. Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge about Vietnamese cuisine, making the experience both fun and educational. Many guests say it’s a highlight of their trip, with one noting, “The guides were caring, and the food was beyond delicious.”
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a full sensory experience, mixing city exploration with diverse flavorful bites.
3. Saigon: Day-Night Sights & Local Food Tour l Female Option
Number 3 offers a day-to-night adventure on motorbikes, perfect for travelers interested in both the city’s sights and its culinary surprises. Starting with desserts like tropical fruit smoothies, the tour visits a ghost apartment building, outdoor markets, and local eateries for grilled pork vermicelli and spring rolls. The female rider option adds a cultural touch, often with Ao dai dress for added charm. Guests appreciate the insight into local life combined with delicious food. One reviewer noted, “I loved the different districts and the food stops—they made the city come alive.” It’s suited for those who want a balanced mix of sightseeing and authentic eats with a touch of culture.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a relaxed but insightful exploration of Saigon’s day-to-night vibe and food scene.
4. Saigon Evening Food Tour by Scooter
Number 4 takes you into Saigon after dark, a time when the city’s street food scene truly awakens. Over around 4 hours, your guide will lead you through various districts, stopping at famous local restaurants to try Bun Thit Nuong, Banh Xeo, and shop at the flower market. The tour emphasizes local dishes and the urban atmosphere, with guests commenting on how safe and fun the ride felt—“Riding on scooters felt like being part of the city.” The tour is perfect for food lovers who also want a glimpse of Saigon’s nightlife and local markets. It’s a private experience, ensuring personalized attention and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best for those who prefer an evening adventure combining street food, city views, and a relaxed pace.
5. Saigon Afternoon Unseen Street Food by Scooter |Opt: Ao Dai Rider
This 4-hour afternoon tour takes you beyond the usual tourist spots to cultural hotspots and hidden food stalls. The route includes a visit to a bunker used during the war, flower markets, and local eateries serving Banh Xeo and other specialties. The Ao Dai rider option adds a cultural flair, making for a memorable photo and experience. Guests highlight the personalized service and “delicious food in quiet, authentic settings.” It’s a good choice if you want to combine history, culture, and food in one relaxed afternoon. The small group size and all-inclusive approach make it great value.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers interested in history and cuisine with a casual, immersive pace.
6. Saigon Night Sights & Local Food by Motorbike | Opt: Ao Dai Riders
Number 6 offers a 4-hour night tour focusing on city lights, markets, and street eats. It’s a private experience that covers District 4, flower markets, and floating markets. The highlight is the chance to try 7 dishes including Bun Thit Nuong, local noodles, and snacks at District 4’s Food Street. The Ao Dai rider option makes it especially memorable and photogenic. Many guests praise the safe, smooth rides and the insider tips on local cuisine. One review states, “Yen (Anne) was charming and made the night unforgettable.” This tour suits night owls and food adventurers wanting an authentic, lively experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for night lovers who want to explore Saigon’s lit-up streets and hidden culinary gems with a cultural twist.
7. Award-winning Saigon Food Tour with GirlPower Drivers | KissTour
Number 7 highlights an evening adventure with female drivers leading you through less-traveled food joints. Over about 4 hours, you’ll sample meatball banh mi, Vietnamese pancakes, and more. The hotel pickup and drop-off make logistics simple. Guests rave about the friendly guides and delicious, authentic food. One reviewer said, “This tour shows a different side of Saigon — less touristy and more local.” It’s perfect for solo travelers or couples who want a personalized, safe, and tasty journey through the city.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a female-led experience with a focus on local, off-the-beaten-path eateries.
8. Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience
Number 8 is a 3-hour walking tour that immerses you in Saigon’s street food culture. Starting at the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll visit bustling markets, food stalls, and rustic restaurants. The guide will introduce you to Banh Mi, rice dishes, and Saigonese coffee. Guests love the small-group setting, which feels intimate despite the busy streets. Many mention how this tour offers a deep dive into local flavors with a chance to see the city’s night vibrancy. It’s perfect for walkers who want a relaxed pace and authentic tastes.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting an in-depth flavor tour on foot, with excellent local food and atmosphere.
9. Ho Chi Minh City: Private Street Food Motorbike Tour
Number 9 offers a private 4-hour ride tailored to your preferences, combining culture and cuisine. It includes 9 dishes and unlimited drinks from famous stalls. Guides are praised for their friendly explanations of Vietnamese dishes and local stories. Guests say, “We felt incredibly safe and learned so much about Vietnamese food culture,” which highlights the personalized approach. It’s ideal for foodies wanting a customized, flexible experience with local guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge. The all-inclusive setup ensures no surprises about cost.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a custom, in-depth foodie adventure.
10. Ho Chi Minh City: Walking Food Tour with 13 Tastings
Number 10 combines walking and eating across three and a half hours. You’ll visit local stalls, hidden markets, and famous food spots, sampling 13 dishes including shredded pork rice, street snacks, and specialty drinks. Reviewers highlight the knowledgeable guide and the chance to see authentic local life. Many mention that the tour’s variety of tastings and inside stories make it well worth the price. It’s suited for active travelers and those who prefer exploring on foot, with the added benefit of learning about Vietnamese culture along the way.
Bottom Line: Best for walkers who want a comprehensive culinary overview with lots of bites and stories.
11. Ho Chi Minh City: Private Street Food Evening Walking Tour
This private 4-hour tour offers a personalized walk through night markets and food stalls, tasting 9 dishes and local drinks. The focus is on local interactions and hidden food spots. Guests rave about the friendly guides and the cultural insights gained. One reviewer shared, “This tour gave us a real taste of Saigon’s nightlife and local cuisine.” It suits small groups or couples who want a relaxed, intimate experience with plenty of authentic bites.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers preferring a personalized walking experience with authentic food and local stories.
12. Morning Saigon Unseen+Street Food Tour with Ao Dai Riders Option
Number 12 is a morning tour designed for early risers curious about Saigon’s hidden spots and history. It includes visits to flower markets, war bunkers, and local eateries. The Ao Dai rider option adds cultural charm and photo opportunities, making it memorable. Guests appreciate the mix of history, culture, and food, with one saying, “Lisa made it easy and safe, and the food was fantastic.” It’s perfect for those wanting a morning adventure that combines history and local flavors.
Bottom Line: Great for history buffs and early risers eager to see Saigon’s mornings in a relaxed, cultural setting.
13. Saigon Food Tour by Scooter with Eleven Tastings
This 4-hour scooter tour is a favorite, offering eleven tastings at local stalls across Saigon’s neighborhoods. The guides are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, and guests enjoy trying mini dishes like crispy pancakes, boiled beef, and lotus flower drinks. Many reviews mention how delicious and varied the food is, with guides sharing stories behind each dish. It’s ideal for foodies who want to eat a lot and learn about Vietnamese culinary traditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those eager to sample many dishes with a friendly, lively guide.
14. Ho Chi Minh Street Food Tour By Motorbike (Unique & Authentic)
Number 14 is a private, student-led tour offering an authentic experience on motorbikes. It focuses on sampling street foods like Hue noodles, pancakes, and Banh Mi. Guests love that it’s tailored for groups of friends wanting a fun, energetic exploration of Saigon’s food scene. The almost 4-hour trip aims to uncover local flavors that you might miss on your own. Reviewers mention how fun and authentic it feels, emphasizing the casual, lively atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Best for groups wanting a friendly, energetic ride with a focus on local street foods.
15. Saigon Food Tour on Scooter at Night
Finally, the Night Food Tour offers a 3.5-hour ride through Saigon’s illuminated streets, sampling street foods, noodles, and local drinks. It’s great for night owls who want to experience Saigon’s lively evening atmosphere from the back of a scooter. Guests love the personalized guide and the chance to see the city’s night scenes while tasting authentic foods. Many say it’s an exciting way to end a day in Ho Chi Minh City.
Bottom Line: Ideal for nighttime explorers craving a dynamic, flavorful experience in the city’s evening buzz.
How to Choose the Right Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City
Picking the perfect food tour depends on your priorities. If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive introduction, the Saigon: Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike offers a lively mix of sights and tastes. For a fuller dive into local flavors across districts, the Scooter Food Tour with Eleven Tastings is unbeatable. Budget travelers might prefer the Saigon Afternoon Unseen Street Food or Walking Food Tours, which focus on intimate, guided experiences.
Consider your comfort level with riding scooters — some tours like the Private Street Food Motorbike Tour or Night Scooter Experience are perfect for those seeking flexibility and privacy. Timing also matters—morning tours explore markets and history, while evening rides reveal vibrant nightlife and illuminated streets. Booking early is smart, especially in peak seasons, so you can secure your preferred time and guide.
Final Thoughts
From high-energy scooter adventures to relaxed walking bites, Ho Chi Minh City offers a range of food tours that fit different interests and styles. For those craving adventure and local flavors, the Saigon: Street Food Tasting & Sightseeing Tour by Motorbike is a standout. If you prefer a more leisurely, intimate experience, the Private Street Food Motorbike Tour or Night Food Tour are excellent choices.
No matter your preference, these tours promise authentic flavors, local stories, and a chance to really taste Vietnam’s rich culinary culture. Book early, and prepare to eat your way through Saigon’s streets — an experience you won’t forget.