Ho Chi Minh City: Motorbike Street Food Tour – 12 Tastings

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Vietnam’s bustling street food culture, this motorbike street food tour in Ho Chi Minh City promises a flavorful ride through the city’s hidden culinary gems. It’s a great way to see Saigon from a local’s perspective while sampling some of the best bites the city has to offer—think spring rolls, bánh mì, oysters, and sweet flan—delivered by friendly guides on lively motorbikes.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are its small group setting, the chance to explore off-the-beaten-path spots, and the delicious variety of 12 different tastings. Yet, it’s worth noting that the tour involves riding on motorbikes, which might not suit everyone, especially those with back problems or who prefer a more sedentary experience.

This experience is perfect for food lovers eager to dive into Saigon’s street scene and explore its culinary diversity safely and comfortably. If you’re curious about Vietnamese flavors, enjoy a dash of adventure, and appreciate genuine local insights, this tour will be a memorable highlight of your Vietnam trip.

Good To Know

• Authentic Flavors: Tastes of 12 different Vietnamese dishes and drinks, from noodles to sweet treats.
• Local Exploration: Hidden alleyways and vibrant food spots with a knowledgeable guide.
• Unique Transportation: Comfortable motorbike ride for quick, fun city sightseeing.
• Inclusive Experience: All foods, drinks, helmets, and insurance included for a hassle-free adventure.
• Value for Money: At $27, it’s an affordable way to experience Saigon’s culinary scene with expert guides.
• Suitable for Foodies: Ideal for those wanting an immersive, lively, and tasty experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Saigon on Two Wheels: An Authentic Food Adventure

This tour takes you through the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, starting with a lively ride on the back of a motorcycle—an exhilarating way to see the city’s sights and sounds. The guides are friendly and knowledgeable, often providing interesting tidbits about local culture and history alongside your tastings. We loved the way the guides, like Nathan, made the experience both fun and informative, balancing humor with insightful commentary.

The motorbike allows you to reach places that are often hidden from travelers, wandering through narrow alleys and vibrant local food hubs that you might miss exploring on foot. This quick-moving pace means you get a true taste of Saigon’s diverse neighborhoods in a short amount of time, all without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary Breakdown: A Tour of Flavors and Cultures

Starting with a Savory Bubble: Bún Tht Nng

Your journey begins with a warm, flavorful bowl of Grilled Pork Vermicelli (Bún Tht Nng). It’s a satisfying way to wake up your palate, with juicy grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs taking center stage. The fish sauce adds that signature Vietnamese umami punch. Reviewers like Jeongseop mention enjoying the detailed explanations from guides about each dish, which helps you appreciate the authenticity behind every bite.

Refreshing with Local Drinks

After the first bite, cooling down is essential—there’s no better way than with Jasmine Iced Tea or Sugarcane Juice. Both drinks are staples in Vietnam, offering a sweet, aromatic refreshment that pairs perfectly with the food. The tour also includes soft drinks or local beers, giving you options depending on your preference.

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Moving to Street Snacks: Bánh Tráng Nng and Spring Rolls

Next, you’ll try Vietnamese Pizza (Bánh Tráng Nng), a crispy rice paper topped with eggs, minced pork or sausage, dried shrimp, and chili sauce. It’s a fun, handheld snack with a variety of textures and flavors. Fresh spring rolls, or Gi Cun, are another highlight, wrapped with shrimp, pork, herbs, and vermicelli, served with hoisin or peanut sauce. Reviewers consistently praise the friendly guides for sharing tips on how to roll and dip like a pro.

Heartier Bites: Bò Lá Lt and Skewers

The tour continues with more substantial options like Grilled Beef wrapped in Betel Leaf and Grilled Pork or Beef Skewers—both offering smoky, tender bites with bold seasoning. These are often served with fresh herbs and greens, giving you a taste of Vietnam’s love for balancing meat with fresh vegetables.

Classic Bánh Mì and Beverages

No street food experience in Vietnam is complete without a Bánh Mì—a baguette filled with roasted or grilled pork, herbs, pickled vegetables, and chili. It’s a quick, satisfying snack that the guides expertly explain is a product of Vietnam’s colonial history, blending French bread with local flavors. During the tour, you’ll wash it down with a local beer or soda, depending on your choice.

Sweet Ending: Flan and Oysters

To finish, indulge in Vietnamese Caramel Flan, a creamy, caramel-topped custard that balances sweetness with smooth texture. The tour concludes with Steamed Oysters, a delicacy often enjoyed fresh and simply prepared with lime, ginger, or chili. Sarah describes the oysters as “a fun and fresh way to end the tour,” highlighting how the experience combines comfort food with local delicacies.

Practical Details and Comfort

The tour lasts around a few hours, covering a range of flavors and neighborhoods. Included in the price are high-quality helmets, insurance, and hotel pick-up/drop-off in District 1, 3, and 5—making it convenient and stress-free. The motorbike ride itself is surprisingly comfortable, with guides like Peter emphasizing the safety and ease of the experience.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, bring a hat, sunscreen, and water as you explore Saigon’s sunny streets, and be prepared for some weather variability. The guides are friendly and helpful, often offering rain ponchos if needed, which reviewers appreciate.

What’s Not Included

Personal expenses aren’t covered, so you might want to bring extra cash for souvenirs or additional drinks. The tour also offers a vegetarian option, but this might result in fewer tastings—something to keep in mind if you have dietary restrictions.

Authenticity and Value

At just $27, this tour offers incredible value: 12 tastings, transportation, friendly guides, and all safety gear included. Compared to the cost of individual street food meals, it’s a budget-friendly way to sample a broad spectrum of Vietnamese cuisine in a fun, social setting.

Reviewers like Marco praise the narrative and kindness of guides, while Jeongseop highlights how the tour combined delicious food with insightful explanations. Sarah appreciated the guiding style, especially Nathan’s knowledge about Ho Chi Minh’s sites and history, which added depth to the experience beyond just eating.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventurous foodies who enjoy a lively atmosphere and are comfortable on a motorbike seat. It’s perfect for travelers wanting to see Saigon’s local neighborhoods while tasting authentic dishes, especially if you enjoy guided details and social experiences.

However, if you’re sensitive to riding on motorbikes or have back problems, this might not be the best fit. Also, those seeking a more relaxed, less mobile experience might prefer a walking tour.

Final Thoughts

This motorbike street food tour in Ho Chi Minh City offers a fantastic blend of authentic flavors, local culture, and fun transportation. For just $27, you gain access to 12 carefully curated tastings, guided by friendly experts sharing stories behind each dish. It’s a lively, engaging way to see Saigon’s culinary diversity, especially if you’re eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots.

The experience is especially valuable for those wanting a genuine taste of Vietnam, combined with the thrill of riding through the city on a motorbike. The knowledgeable guides, delicious food, and vibrant atmosphere make it a high-value, memorable activity for food lovers and curious travelers alike.

If you’re ready to try a variety of Vietnamese street foods in a safe, fun setting, this tour promises a flavorful adventure you won’t forget.

FAQ

How long does the tour last? The tour typically takes a few hours, covering multiple food stops and exploring different neighborhoods.

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes transportation by motorbike, with high-quality helmets and fuel provided.

Can I request vegetarian tastings? Yes, vegetarian options are available, but note that the number of tastings may be fewer than 12.

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour offers free hotel pick-up and drop-off in districts 1, 3, and 5, with some exclusions.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a camera, water, and a hat are recommended for comfort and safety.

What is the price? The tour costs $27 per person, which covers all foods, drinks, transportation, guides, and insurance.

Is it suitable for kids or older travelers? It’s best for those comfortable riding motorbikes; older travelers or those with back problems might find it less suitable.

What is the guide like? Guides like Nathan are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and helpful attitude, making the experience both fun and informative.

Can I cancel? Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby