All About Walking Tour in Saigon
Explore Ho Chi Minh beyond the tourist traps with a perfectly chosen walking tour Saigon for your trip! Unveils the secrets to picking the ideal Saigon walking tour for you.
EXPERIENCE TRAVEL
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, pulsates with a unique energy. This vibrant metropolis, a 20th-century historical hotspot in Southeast Asia, is known not just for its rich past but also for its steamy weather. While online videos might paint a picture of a city unfriendly to pedestrians because of bustling traffic, walking tours remain the best way to truly discover Saigon's soul.
All About Walking Tour in Saigon
However, navigating a plethora of tour options can be overwhelming. This guide serves as your compass, equipping you with the knowledge to choose the perfect Saigon walking tour and avoid tourist traps.
Here's What You Will Learn from this Saigon Walking Tour Guide
Question and Answer About Walking Tours in Saigon
How to Prepare for Walking Tour in Saigon?
How to Choose Your Walking Tour?
Classic Saigon Walking Tour
What to Expect from a Tour?
Where to Book a Tour?
Walking Tours We Recommend On Viator
Saigon Walking Tours On Withlocals Platform
Where to Walk in Saigon?
Self-Guided Walking Tour
Useful Links
Before You Dive Into Our Longread About Walking Tours in Saigon, Here Is A Shortcut For Tours We Recommend To Try:
Can I walk around Saigon?
Yes you can, but not all the streets are well prepared for a comfortable walk. Most of the pavements are used as motorbike parking lot or street food shop. During the rush hours (morning & evening) Saigonese use pavements as additional driving lane. You can read reviews in this recent article. But don't get upset, if you have a good guide or self-guided tour they can show walking trails for your comfortable journey around Saigon.
Q&A About Saigon Walking Tour
Is it safe to walk around Saigon?
Yes it's safe to walk around Saigon. Ho Chi Minh City is listed among safest cities in South East Asia. But still, small crimes happens, like in any big city. It's always good to keep an eye on your belongings and don't cary valuable things in crowded places.
How much is an average guided walking tour price in Saigon?
Price can differ based on the tour operator final offer, but on average walking tour can cost you between 20 - 50$ per person.
Is walking tour a good experience in Saigon?
Even though Saigon is pretty young city in comparison with other Asian metapolicies, it still has a lot to tell. You can learn about about 3 main topics: Pre-colonial history of the city, French colonial legacy and Vietnam War time period.
What is the best time for a walking tour in Saigon?
Early morning, between 7 - 10 am is the best time for a walking tour is Saigon. Mainly because of the sun, and it's still sunny in the morning during the rainy season. After 10 am it's getting really hot.
What should I wear for Saigon walking tour?
There's no cultural restrictions for the outfits. You can enter all public museums wearing shorts (except government offices, they do not allow visitors in shorts). Keep in mind that the sun is really strong in Saigon, it can damage your skin. Best is to be covered with long sleeves shirts or use sunscreen cream, wear hat or have sun protecting umbrella.
Saigon's chaotic charm is part of its allure. However, a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a comfortable and enriching experience.
Tour guide is the key: Saigon boasts a labyrinth of hidden alleyways brimming with cultural gems. A knowledgeable and trustworthy guide unlocks the city's secrets, from hidden outlet stores selling exquisite porcelain to authentic local food havens.
Embrace the elements: Saigon's weather is a tropical cocktail of heat and humidity. Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes that can handle rain or shine.
Fear not, embrace the friendly faces: Despite the seemingly frenetic pace, Saigon's residents, the Saigonese, are known for their warmth and hospitality. Don't hesitate to strike up a conversation in English – you'll likely be met with a welcoming smile.
Shift your cultural expectations: Unlike European cities overflowing with historical artifacts, Saigon's cultural treasures are more subtle. District 1 concentrates the majority of historical landmarks.
Siesta time: The midday sun can be scorching. Schedule your tours outside the peak heat hours, typically between noon and 2 pm.
Capture memories, not just pictures: Consider a photo walking tour. Led by local photographers with an intimate knowledge of the city's hidden corners, these tours not only capture stunning visuals but also offer photography tips and insights into the local way of life.
Gearing Up for Your Saigon Walking Tour
Here's a breakdown to help you find the perfect fit:
District 1 ,The Classics Come Alive: Immerse yourself in Saigon's iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, the Independence Palace, and Ben Thanh Market.
Foodie Paradise: A Culinary Journey: Embark on a flavor explosion with a local food tour. Sample an array of Vietnamese delicacies, ensuring dietary restrictions are considered beforehand. Check reviews, restaurant lists, and customize your tour for a truly personalized experience.
Shop Like a Local: Hunt for bargains and unique finds on a shopping tour. Guides navigate bustling markets, helping you score the best deals.
History Buffs Unite: Delve into Saigon's war-torn past with a themed tour focusing on historical landmarks. These tours are a must for history enthusiasts seeking a deeper understanding of the city's past.
Through the Lens: Capture Saigon's Essence: Avoid tourist traps with a photo walking tour. Local photographers with years of experience guide you to captivating locations, offering photography instruction along the way. You'll return with breathtaking images and a newfound appreciation for Saigon's visual storytelling.
The Ultimate Saigon Experience: For the truly adventurous, an "all-in-one" tour crams everything into one action-packed day. Prepare your legs for a whirlwind adventure encompassing Saigon's major historical sites, cultural gems, and culinary delights.
Budget Travel? No Problem!: Free walking tours, often led by enthusiastic Vietnamese students, offer a budget-friendly introduction to the city. These tours provide valuable insights and a chance to connect with young locals. Remember to tip your guides for their efforts.
With an abundance of walking tours available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Here are some helpful tips:
Identify your interests: Consider what you'd like to get out of your Saigon walking tour experience. Are you a history buff, a foodie, or an architecture enthusiast? Aligning your interests with the tour's focus will ensure a more fulfilling experience.
Read Reviews: Online platforms like TripAdvisor offer valuable insights from previous tour participants. Reviews can shed light on the guide's knowledge, the tour's pace, and overall value for money.
Group Size: Consider how comfortable you feel in group settings. Some tours cater to small groups, allowing for more personalized interaction with the guide. Others cater to larger groups, offering a more social experience.
Budget: Walking tours range in pricing depending on duration, inclusions (like food tastings), and the guide's experience. Determine your budget beforehand to narrow down your options.
Choosing Your Saigon Walking Tour Adventure
A classic walking tour offers the perfect way to unravel the layers of this dynamic city, revealing its architectural gems and immersing you in its unique character. This self-guided tour, perfect for photography enthusiasts ("Saigon on film photo walk"), leads you past iconic landmarks and bustling streets, capturing the essence of timeless Saigon.Write your text here...
Watch Full Classic Saigon Walk in 4K [60fps]
To experience Saigon at its vibrant pulse, a walking tour is an unbeatable choice. But with so many options, how do you find the perfect one? Here's your guide to booking the Saigon walking tour that best suits you.
Best Tour Booking Platforms:
Supporting Local Guides:
While booking platforms offer ease and security, don't overlook the charm of local tour companies. Here are a couple we recommend:
Booking Your Saigon Walking Tour Experience
Walking Tours We Recommend On Viator
History buffs and first-time visitors can opt for the Small-group Saigon City Tour: 4-Hour Must-see Iconic Landmarks. This comprehensive tour crams all the classic locations into a manageable timeframe, ensuring you don't miss the architectural wonders like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office, or the historic Reunification Palace.
For photography enthusiasts, the Private Sunrise Photography Tour - Down in Chinatown offers a unique perspective. Explore the labyrinthine alleys and colorful facades of Saigon's Chinatown with a local photographer guiding you to the best spots for capturing the golden hues of dawn. Learn valuable photography tips and capture the essence of Chinatown awakening.
Finally, for a more immersive experience, the Saigon Street Photography Experience lets you delve into the heart of the city's vibrant street life. With your guide's help, navigate bustling markets, capture candid moments of everyday interactions, and learn to compose shots that tell the captivating story of Saigon's energy.
Saigon Walking Tours On Withlocals Platform
For a whirlwind introduction, the City Kickstart Tour: Ho Chi Minh City is a perfect choice. Led by a friendly local, this tour crams all the classic must-sees, from architectural marvels like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office to historical landmarks like the Reunification Palace, ensuring you don't miss a beat.
If you're passionate about capturing the city's essence, Withlocals offers Say Cheese! Saigon's Photography Walking Tour. Explore Saigon's hidden corners with a local photographer who will guide you to picturesque spots and share valuable photography tips. Capture the vibrant street life, architectural details, and the city's unique charm through your lens.
For a truly unforgettable experience, ditch the usual tours and delve into Saigon's culinary scene with the Street Food Tour by Motorcycle. Zip through the city's backstreets with your local guide, stopping at hidden gems to sample the most delicious and authentic street food Saigon has to offer. This tour is a feast for both your taste buds and your sense of adventure.
Local Knowledge with a Light Touch: While your guide might weave in fascinating anecdotes, don't expect an in-depth history lesson. Saigon walking tours are more about soaking up the atmosphere and getting a feel for the city's pulse.
A Culinary Adventure (Sort Of): Popular walking tours often include stops at well-known restaurants and street food stalls. These are great for trying Saigon's signature dishes, but for a truly authentic experience, consider a dedicated street food tour that ventures into lesser-known neighborhoods.
Souvenir Shopping on the Go: Let's be honest, shopping on a walking tour can be a bit hit-and-miss. There's a chance you won't find unique, high-quality souvenirs along the way. If you spot something that catches your eye, grab it! Otherwise, wait until you explore the city's dedicated markets for a wider selection.
Genuine Friendliness: Despite being a well-trodden path, Saigon walking tours are led by passionate locals who love their city. Their enthusiasm is infectious, making the experience enjoyable and informative.
So lace up your walking shoes, embrace the friendly energy, and get ready to experience Saigon on film – the sights, sounds, and smells that make this city so special.
Insider Tips: What to Expect on Your Walking Tour
Saigon may be a motorbike capital, but don't let that stop you from exploring on foot. Here are some great areas for walking tours:
Walking Tour in District 1:
Home to the Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and Reunification Palace, District 1 offers a classic Saigon experience.
Walk in District 3:
With its charming French colonial architecture, District 3 is perfect for a stroll, soaking in the bygone era.
So, Where To Walk In Saigon?
Feeling a bit more adventurous?
Tour in District 5 (Saigon Chinatown):
Dive into Saigon's Chinatown, District 5, for a vibrant atmosphere and delicious Chinese treats.
Travel to Thao Dien:
Head to Thao Dien, Saigon's "western bubble village," for a taste of expat life and a wide variety of restaurants.
For the ultimate explorer:
Walk in Binh Quoi Village:
This unique district offers a glimpse into a preserved countryside lifestyle within the city limits. It's still a tourist destination, but provides a fascinating contrast to the urban jungle.
We wrote a full walking tour guide (actually photo walking) for you to see the options of discovering real life of Saigon on your own or with your friends.
And one more useful link to check Saigon food tour review.
Check Our Walking Tour Around District 2, Thao Dien, Saigon
Saigon's Best Photo Walk Locations
Ho Chi Minh City, bursting with vibrant life and rich history, is a photographer's paradise. Ditch the tourist traps and join us on a unique photo walk adventure! Explore hidden gems, iconic landmarks, and bustling markets, capturing Saigon's essence on film.
This app offers a convenient way to explore cities around the world without needing a data plan. With its built-in GPS navigation, you can easily follow pre-planned walking tours and discover hidden gems. However, while the app is informative and user-friendly, the quality of the tours can vary depending on the city and the creator. It's a great option for independent travelers who want to avoid the crowds and explore at their own pace.
Self-Guided Walking Tours in Saigon (2024)
Ho Chi Minh City, often still referred to as Saigon, pulsates with a vibrant energy that's best experienced firsthand. While organized tours offer a structured exploration, a self-guided walking tour allows you to tailor your experience, savoring the city's unique character at your own pace. This itinerary is perfect for independent explorers with limited time, be it a one-day stopover or a two-day exploration.