Saigon Craft Beer and Food Tour in Ho Chi Minh City

Taking a craft beer and food tour through Saigon’s lively streets offers a fantastic blend of local culture, gastronomy, and fun. This particular experience, rated a perfect 5.0 based on nine reviews, promises a four-hour adventure that combines Scooter riding, authentic Vietnamese flavors, and visits to some of the city’s most interesting neighborhoods. As someone who’s researched and heard from travelers who’ve experienced it, I can say this tour is a lively, authentic way to get off the beaten path and see the city from a very local perspective.

One of the most appealing aspects is the small-group setting paired with a knowledgeable guide who makes the experience both fun and educational. The fact that the tour includes a variety of local craft beers—from traditional Bia Hoi to seasonal and innovative brews—makes it perfect for beer enthusiasts. But it’s not just about drinks; the opportunity to enjoy street-style dishes, both vegan and non-vegan, means this tour is a well-rounded taste of Saigon’s culinary scene.

A potential consideration is the moped transportation—which might not suit everyone, especially those who are uncomfortable on two wheels or have mobility concerns. However, for most travelers, the shared moped rides add an element of excitement and convenience, allowing quick access to multiple neighborhoods and hidden spots that are hard to reach by car.

This tour is best suited for adventurous foodies, craft beer lovers, and anyone looking for a local, authentic experience in Ho Chi Minh City. If you enjoy vibrant street scenes, tasting diverse flavors, and exploring neighborhoods with a guide, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience with visits to hidden neighborhoods and street markets.
• Diverse craft beer tasting featuring both traditional and innovative Vietnamese brews.
• Culinary highlights include street-style dishes suitable for vegans and non-vegans alike.
• Fun moped transportation that offers a quick and exciting way to see Saigon’s streets.
• Knowledgeable guides who share stories and insights about Vietnam’s beer culture and local life.
• Flexible booking and group discounts make it accessible for different travelers.

An Up-Close Look at the Saigon Craft Beer and Food Tour

This four-hour adventure offers more than just a casual stroll; it’s a lively exploration that combines local culture, flavors, and neighborhoods with a dash of adrenaline. The tour kicks off with a pickup, often including private transportation, ensuring you start your evening comfortably and promptly. The main activity revolves around riding on scooters—an iconic, exhilarating way to explore Saigon’s bustling streets.

A Taste of Saigon’s Street Life and Local Flavors

The first stop, 145 Bà Huyn Thanh Quan, sets the tone by allowing guests to sit streetside and enjoy local dishes while sipping on some of Saigon’s finest craft beers. Here, the emphasis is on local ambiance—watching life unfold under the glow of city lights, meeting new friends, and sampling small bites that are typical of street dining.

The next stop takes you to Ho Thi Ky Flower Market, a vibrant hub filled with color, scent, and stories. The guide will share insights into Vietnam’s beer culture as you sample Lao Gia Beer (Old Master Beer) and other street-style craft beers like Seasonal Fruit, Red Lager, and Midnight Stout. It’s quite different from your typical brewery visit—here, the focus is on local, fresh brews made with 19th-century techniques, giving you a unique taste of tradition blended with local innovation.

Exploring Saigon’s Hidden Neighborhoods

A highlight for many reviewers is the stop at the Nguyen Thien Thuat Apartment Buildings. Built in the 1960s, this vibrant neighborhood offers a glimpse into daily Saigonese life far from tourist crowds. Wandering through narrow alleys, you’ll see hidden cafés, family-owned shops, and lively street scenes that reveal the city’s authentic, lived-in character. Reviewer Michelle even mentioned how this stop allows for storytelling, photography, and a sense of connection with the local scene.

Beer, Culture, and a Microbrewery Visit

The tour includes a visit to 181 Cách Mạng Tháng Tám, where you’ll toast to a memorable night. It’s a lively spot to soak in local drinking atmosphere, with plenty of opportunities to chat with guides and fellow travelers.

Another favorite for those who love seeing the brewing process firsthand is the visit to the microbrewery at 15/30 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai. Here, you can observe how beer is made on-site, adding an educational element to the evening. It’s a chance to appreciate the craftsmanship behind each brew, making your tasting even more meaningful.

The Value of Visiting Off-the-Beaten-Path

What really sets this tour apart is the combination of tasting local beers and exploring neighborhoods that most travelers never see. It’s clear from reviews that guides like Hanee and Tuco excel at sharing stories, making everyone feel welcomed, and adding humor to the experience.

Most travelers appreciated the balance of fun, learning, and genuine interaction, with Michelle noting how her hosts were “welcoming, knowledgeable, and made us laugh all night long.” The tour’s small-group setting fosters an intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged, and conversations flow naturally.

Practical Details and Experience Quality

At $45 per person, the value is quite high given the included craft beer tastings, meals, and private transportation. The tour’s 4-hour duration is enough time to enjoy a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. The group size caps at 50 travelers, but most reviews suggest it’s comfortably smaller, which enhances the personalized feel. Booking is typically done 15 days in advance, indicating good planning for those with specific dates in mind.

What’s Not Included?

Most personal expenses like souvenirs or additional drinks outside the tasting are not included, so budget accordingly. Also, travelers should consider their comfort with moped riding, as this is the main mode of transport, but multiple reviews point out that riding is safe and well-managed by guides.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventurous travelers eager to see Saigon from a different perspective. Foodies who want to explore local dishes in a casual, street-side environment will appreciate the stops. Craft beer lovers will find the beverage selection both authentic and interesting. And those curious about local neighborhoods and daily life will value the chance to wander through vibrant, less touristy areas.

If you’re looking for a fun, social experience with a dose of local culture and flavor, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly suited for travelers comfortable on scooters and open to trying new foods and drinks.

The Sum Up

This Saigon Craft Beer and Food Tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s street food scene, craft beer culture, and neighborhood life. With knowledgeable guides, a good mix of tasting stops, and a fun mode of transport, it provides a memorable way to experience the city beyond typical tourist paths.

The tour’s focus on local flavors, storytelling, and neighborhood exploration makes it a perfect choice for adventurous food and drink lovers. The small-group setup ensures you’ll feel more like a guest in Saigon’s vibrant daily life than just a tourist.

While the moped rides and some busy streets may not appeal to everyone, most travelers will find the experience both exciting and enriching. The value for the price—covering drinks, meals, transportation, and insider access—is excellent, especially for those wanting a comprehensive, fun, and tasty night out.

If you’re seeking a night filled with laughs, local stories, and authentic flavors, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your trip.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for people who don’t like riding scooters?
Most of the experience involves riding on scooters, but the guides manage the rides carefully. If you’re uncomfortable, it’s worth discussing with the tour provider beforehand, as some may have options or accommodations.

Are vegan and non-vegan options available?
Yes, the tour offers a variety of local dishes with both vegan and non-vegan choices, ensuring everyone can enjoy the food.

What’s included in the price?
The $45 fee covers craft beer tastings, meals, private transportation, and visits to multiple neighborhoods. Personal expenses are not included.

How far in advance should I book?
The tour is typically booked about 15 days ahead on average, so early booking is recommended, especially during peak travel times.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for adults comfortable on scooters and interested in tasting local food and drinks. For families with children or those who are not comfortable riding, alternative options might be better.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This tour combines the thrill of exploring Saigon on scooters with the delight of tasting local craft beers and dishes. For those eager to see the city through a lively, authentic lens, it’s a fantastic choice.