One hour cyclo tour around Saigon

Exploring Saigon in a New Way: The One-Hour Cyclo Tour

This one-hour cyclo tour around Ho Chi Minh City offers a uniquely relaxed way to see the bustling streets and iconic sights without breaking a sweat. Using the traditional Vietnamese rickshaw, or xich lo, you get a breezy, close-up view of Saigon’s vibrant life, from bustling markets to modern skyscrapers. It’s an experience that combines nostalgia with modern city energy, perfect for those wanting a lighter, more personable sightseeing option.

What we love about this tour is its personalized nature—it’s private, intimate, and flexible, giving you the chance to enjoy the sights without the chaos of large groups. Plus, the affordable price point of just over ten dollars makes it an excellent value for a quick yet memorable city overview.

A potential consideration is the limited duration—being just 55 minutes to an hour, it’s more of a highlight reel than an in-depth exploration. If you’re craving detailed history or extensive sightseeing, this might feel a bit brief. However, for those short on time or looking for a fun, authentic experience, this cyclo tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour is especially suited for travelers who want a leisurely, authentic Saigon experience—perfect for first-timers, older visitors, or anyone curious about traditional Vietnamese transport modes. It’s also great for families or those who prefer a low-effort way to see the city’s top landmarks.

Key Points

• Affordable and convenient: Priced at just $10.55 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see the sights.
• Personalized private experience: Limited to your group, ensuring a tailored, relaxed ride.
• Iconic stops: From Ben Thanh Market to the Independence Palace and Bitexco Tower.
• Comfortable and safe: Enjoy Saigon’s busy streets from the comfort of a cyclo, avoiding the chaos of motorbikes or taxis.
• Easy access: Meet your driver at the central Opera House, with a drop-off at the central post office—both in prime city locations.
• Flexible timing: Most book 20 days ahead and the tour runs approximately 55 minutes, making it easy to slot into your day.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point: The Opera House

The tour kicks off at the iconic Saigon Opera House, a historic and picturesque spot that hints at the city’s colonial past. Meeting here makes it easy to incorporate the tour into a larger sightseeing day. It’s a central location, close to other attractions, and offers a good initial glimpse of Saigon’s elegant architecture.

The Ride Begins: City Highlights Unfold

As your cyclo driver gently pedals through the busy streets, you’ll pass the bustling area where young Saigonese hang out. Reviewers mention that this square is alive with coffee shops and tea houses, perfect for those who want to see how locals relax. You might even learn that in Vietnam, siblings often share rooms and prefer these spots for privacy—a tiny cultural insight that adds flavor to your ride.

Next, your route takes you to Ben Thanh Market, a must-see for any visitor. Built in 1914 on what was once a 17th-century market, it’s a hive of activity where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to souvenirs. You’ll appreciate how quickly you get a taste of Saigon’s lively commerce, even if just for a short moment.

Modern and Historic Landmarks

Your driver then heads toward Bitexco Financial Tower, the second tallest skyscraper in Saigon. With its 6,000 glass panes, it’s a striking modern contrast to the old city streets. From the cyclo, you can admire its impressive façade and imagine the skyline’s future.

Continuing, you’ll pass the former South Vietnam president’s building, erected in 1963. This site is layered with history, having seen the end of the Vietnam War in 1975 when North Vietnamese tanks famously stormed its gates. Reviewers mention that even today, tanks are displayed nearby, giving visitors a tangible link to the past.

Practical Details and Comfort

The entire experience is private, meaning only your group is on the cyclo—this offers a level of comfort and flexibility that larger tours lack. You’ll enjoy the personalized service, and since the tour includes private transportation, there’s no need to worry about navigating or arranging transport yourself.

Most travelers find the timing to be just right—the 55-minute duration feels like the perfect quick snapshot of Saigon’s highlights. Reviewers confirm that even with some minor delays, the tour is flexible enough to meet your needs. It’s also good to note that the tour is accessible for most travelers and service animals are allowed.

End Point and Beyond

The ride ends at the Saigon Central Post Office, a beautiful French colonial building that’s a favorite photo spot. Its central location makes it easy to continue exploring or grab a taxi back to your hotel.

The Value of the Cyclo Tour

Looking at the price, it’s clear that this tour offers notable value. For just $10.55 per person, you get a private, 55-minute sightseeing experience that covers the major highlights of Saigon. Many reviews mention that the tour is “fun, relaxing, and safe,” with the guides and drivers being punctual, accommodating, and respectful.

Some reviewers have noted that the guides are knowledgeable about the city’s sights and traffic flow, making the ride not just scenic but also informative. Guests have appreciated the opportunity to see Saigon from a comfortable, vantage point—a nice change from walking or motorbiking through the chaos.

The cost-to-value ratio here is difficult to beat, especially considering the personalized experience and the convenience of pickup and dropoff. If you’re in Saigon for a short stay or want a light, enjoyable way to tick off several top sights, this cyclo tour is an excellent choice.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a quick, authentic overview of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s perfect for older travelers or those with mobility concerns—the cyclo minimizes walking and effort.

Families and groups wanting a fun, shared experience also find this tour appealing. The private setting means you can customize your ride or ask your driver to linger at certain sights.

If you’re interested in a nostalgic, cultural ride with a touch of history, this tour provides just that—an affordable way to enjoy Saigon’s vibrant street life without the hassle of navigating busy roads yourself.

FAQs

Is the tour private or shared?
It is a private tour, so only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes private transportation—a cyclo ride around Saigon’s main sights.

Are guides or drivers English-speaking?
The tour does not include an English-speaking guide; the driver will take you around, but language skills aren’t specified.

Where do I meet the driver?
Meet at the Saigon Opera House, a central and easily accessible location in District 1.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 55 minutes to 1 hour, making it a perfect quick sightseeing option.

Can I customize the stops or route?
Since it’s a private tour, you can likely request certain sights, but the standard itinerary covers key landmarks like Ben Thanh Market and the Post Office.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s appropriate for most travelers, including older adults, as it’s gentle and accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen, water, and any personal items you might need—especially in the hot and sunny Saigon weather.

What’s the best time to do this tour?
Morning or early afternoon is ideal to avoid the midday heat and enjoy a more comfortable ride.

Can service animals participate?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Final Words

The one-hour cyclo tour of Saigon offers a charming, affordable, and authentic way to see the city’s top highlights from a comfortable, historical perspective. It’s especially suited for travelers wanting a relaxed yet memorable introduction to Ho Chi Minh City, blending sightseeing with a touch of local culture.

You’ll love the combination of easy navigation, picturesque stops, and the chance to experience Saigon’s lively streets in a way that’s both fun and insightful. It’s a fantastic choice for those who value personalized service, affordability, and a taste of traditional Vietnamese transportation.

While it’s not the tour for deep historical immersion or long exploration, it delivers a perfect snapshot—quick, enjoyable, and memorable. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, this cyclo ride makes for a delightful, photo-worthy experience in the heart of Vietnam’s vibrant metropolis.