Down-to-earth and authentic, Ho Chi Minh City offers two standout dining experiences: street food adventures and Saigon River dinner cruises. The best street food tours pack in 5-6 local stops over 3 hours, letting you sample authentic dishes while learning about Vietnamese food culture from expert guides. Evening river cruises combine traditional performances with quality set menus, giving you a taste of both local cuisine and entertainment.
I especially love the evening walking tours through District 1’s back alleys, where you’ll discover hidden food stalls and sample everything from fresh spring rolls to grilled seafood. The premium dinner cruises aboard traditional wooden boats offer the perfect mix of ambiance and regional specialties.
Let’s explore our favorite food experiences in Ho Chi Minh City.
Key Points
- Ho Chi Minh City offers a wide range of street food and cultural tours that provide an immersive experience into Vietnamese cuisine and local culture.
- Dinner cruises along the Saigon River present scenic views and memorable atmospheres, with options for both buffet and set menus.
- Unique and luxurious dining experiences include private tour dinner cruises with set menus, live music, and transportation.
- Scenic and night experiences during dinner cruises allow guests to enjoy illuminated landmarks along the Saigon River.
- Mekong Delta small group tours offer an immersive local experience, including a stay at a homestay and a BBQ dinner.
Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops
The Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops offers a culinary adventure that delves deep into the vibrant street food culture of Vietnam’s bustling metropolis.
Priced at $29 per person, this 3-hour walking tour promises a Lowest Price Guarantee and flexible cancellation. Guided by experts, guests embark on a journey to sample local delicacies like bahn mi, rice dishes, and Saigonese coffee.
The small-group format, limited to 12 participants, ensures an intimate experience. Operated by a carbon-neutral, B Corp certified company, the tour showcases a range of street food options, providing an immersive look into the city’s authentic cuisine.
With knowledgeable guides and positive customer feedback, this tour is a popular choice for foodies visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
Read our full review: Ho Chi Minh City by Night: Ultimate Street Food Experience With 5 Food Stops Review
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Evening Delights: Saigon Dinner on Cruise With Hotel Pickup
For those seeking a more elevated dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, the Evening Delights: Saigon Dinner on Cruise with Hotel Pickup offers a captivating alternative to the vibrant street food scene.
Priced at $54.28 per person and lasting 4 hours, this small-group cruise includes hotel pickup, a 30-minute van ride to the boat, and a 3-hour dinner cruise on the Saigon River.
Guests can enjoy a Vietnamese buffet, live music, and Flamenco dance performances while taking in the illuminated landmarks along the riverbanks.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and no immediate payment required, this experience provides a scenic and cultural evening activity in the city.
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Ho Chi Minh City by Night Including Water Puppet Show and Dinner on Cruise
Offering a captivating glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant nightlife, the “Ho Chi Minh City by Night Including Water Puppet Show and Dinner on Cruise” experience whisks travelers on a meticulously curated adventure.
This approximately 4-hour tour combines culture and fine dining, showcasing the city’s traditional water puppet performance and a scenic dinner cruise on the Saigon River.
With round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, and a delectable dinner included, the tour provides an exclusive, hassle-free experience.
Travelers can marvel at the city’s skyline at night and learn about Vietnamese culture through this enchanting combination of entertainment and culinary delight.
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Discover HCM Nightlife: Dinner on Cruise With Hotel Pickup
Frequently, travelers to Ho Chi Minh City seek immersive nightlife experiences that capture the city’s vibrant character.
Discover HCM Nightlife: Dinner on Cruise With Hotel Pickup offers an enchanting journey along the Saigon River. This 3-hour cruise features a delectable Vietnamese dinner, lively musical performances, and stunning city views.
The experience is rated 4.7 out of 5 from 962 reviews, with a price starting from $32.77 per person. Hotel pickup is available, making this a convenient and well-rounded way to experience Ho Chi Minh City’s dynamic after-dark atmosphere.
Guests can expect a memorable evening of culture, culinary indulgence, and captivating entertainment on the river.
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Saigon Evening Tour With Water Puppet Show And Dinner Cruise
Enjoy the captivating culture of Ho Chi Minh City with the Saigon Evening Tour With Water Puppet Show And Dinner Cruise.
This 4-hour experience starts at 6 PM, with pickup from centrally located hotels in District 1. You’ll witness the enchanting water puppet show, then enjoy a relaxing dinner cruise along the Saigon River.
While not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for travelers with certain medical conditions, most can participate.
The tour receives excellent reviews, with praise for the cultural experience and the guide’s English communication skills, though some mention a rushed dining experience.
Full refunds are available for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
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Ho Chi Minh: Saigon River Cruise With Buffet Dinner
Set out on a captivating journey along the Saigon River with the Ho Chi Minh: Saigon River Cruise With Buffet Dinner.
This 2-hour cruise offers a unique dining experience, showcasing the city’s vibrant waterfront. Enjoy a delectable buffet featuring Vietnamese and international cuisine as you glide past iconic landmarks like the Bitexco Financial Tower.
The cruise is a 4.7-star experience (803 reviews) and costs from $26.39. Upgrade to a small-group tour for a more intimate setting.
Whether you’re seeking a romantic evening or a cultural adventure, this Saigon River cruise provides an unforgettable way to experience Ho Chi Minh City.
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Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Buffet, Set Menu, Fine Dining (3hrs)
The Saigon River Dinner Cruise offers an enchanting 3-hour experience, allowing guests to savor Vietnamese and international cuisine while taking in the city’s captivating riverside scenery.
With a starting price of $50 per person and variable pricing based on group size, the cruise comes with a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation.
The buffet-style dinner features fusion and traditional Vietnamese dishes, though reviews suggest a mixed experience on food quality.
However, the staff’s friendliness and the tour guides’ professionalism receive high praise, contributing to the overall enjoyment.
The scenic river views and live entertainment further enhance the dinner cruise’s appeal.
Read our full review: Saigon River Dinner Cruise: Buffet, Set Menu, Fine Dining (3hrs) Review
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Saigon by Night on Cruise With Buffet Dinner
For a delightful evening on the Saigon River, the Saigon by Night on Cruise with Buffet Dinner offers an enchanting 3-hour experience.
Priced from $49.16 per person, this cruise accommodates up to 10 participants and features a cozy buffet dinner of Vietnamese dishes, live music, and Flamenco dances.
The tour includes round-trip hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, and all entrance fees.
Customer reviews praise the evening experience, buffet quality, and entertainment, though some note discomfort from heat affecting the visibility of the performances.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this cruise provides a memorable night on the Saigon River.
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LUXURY Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Tiny Homestay With BBQ Dinner
A two-day journey along the Mekong River awaits travelers on the LUXURY Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Tiny Homestay With BBQ Dinner tour.
This small group experience offers an intimate look at life along the river, including a stay at a tiny homestay and a BBQ dinner.
The tour provides a comprehensive experience, with transportation, meals, and activities all included in the competitive pricing starting from $89.00 per person.
Customers can count on a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for changes in travel plans, and rave reviews from previous travelers highlight the exceptional guiding and quality of the buffet lunch.
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Ho Chi Minh: Saigon River Dinner Cruise With Hotel Transfer
Travelers can embark on a captivating 3.5-hour Saigon River dinner cruise in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a chance to savor Vietnamese and international cuisine while taking in the city’s iconic landmarks.
Priced from $49.16 per person, the cruise includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a buffet dinner, live music entertainment, and complimentary drinks.
Reviewers praise the comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and excellent food quality.
While the value for money is rated 3.4/5, the overall experience is described as memorable, with one traveler calling it “out of this world.”
The cruise provides an opportunity to capture scenic photographs and enjoy a romantic atmosphere along the Saigon River.
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Mekong 2 Days 1 Night SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Tiny Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
Explore the quiet rhythms of the Mekong Delta on this 2-day small group tour.
You’ll experience a local homestay, journey by boat on the Tiền River, and visit riverside villages to learn about traditions.
The tour includes free pickup, all meals, and a knowledgeable guide.
Travel from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho, then board a boat to explore the Delta’s serene waterways.
Enjoy a sunset view and a BBQ dinner as part of the experience.
With an overall 5.0 rating from 33 reviews, this small group tour offers an immersive glimpse into the Mekong Delta’s tranquil lifestyle.
Booking is available via an instant mobile ticket, with English and Vietnamese language options.
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From Ho Chi Minh: Dinner on Cruise Saigon River
For those seeking a more urban experience after exploring the tranquil Mekong Delta, a dinner cruise along the Saigon River offers a captivating alternative.
Priced at $49.16 per person, the 4-hour cruise features a small group experience limited to 11 participants. Highlights include elegant dining, attentive service, and rich cultural insights from a live English-speaking guide.
Passengers will enjoy scenic views of the Saigon River, including skyscrapers and historical landmarks, accompanied by a sumptuous meal of traditional Vietnamese and international cuisine.
The relaxing atmosphere aboard the elegant cruise vessel, with comfortable seating and well-appointed interiors, enhances the overall enjoyment of this dining experience.
Read our full review: From Ho Chi Minh: Dinner on Cruise Saigon River Review
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Water Puppet Show-Cyclo & Dinner On Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
Although the tranquil Mekong Delta offers a serene escape, the Water Puppet Show-Cyclo & Dinner On Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City presents a captivating urban experience.
The tour features a traditional water puppet theatre showcasing unique puppeteering techniques, accompanied by a professional orchestra.
Travelers can then enjoy a nostalgic cyclo ride, offering a distinct perspective of the city’s landmarks.
The experience culminates in a dinner cruise along the Saigon River, where guests savor fresh Vietnamese cuisine while taking in the city’s skyline.
With a maximum of 10 travelers per tour, this intimate experience provides an engaging and memorable glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant culture.
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HCM Nightlife: River Saigon Dinner Cruise and Hotel Transfer
Departing from the vibrant city sights, travelers can enjoy the serene ambiance of the Saigon River during an evening dinner cruise.
This 1-day activity provides a hotel pickup and drop-off, offering a convenient and seamless experience. Guests can enjoy a multi-course meal as they drift along the iconic river, taking in the stunning skyline views.
This small-group tour is a popular choice, with 4.7 out of 5 stars from 695 reviews. At $69.72 per person, it’s an affordable way to experience Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife and riverfront scenery.
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Mekong 2D1N SMALL GROUP Stay at Family Homestay WITH BBQ DINNER
Enjoy the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta on this 2-day, small-group tour from Ho Chi Minh City. Lasting around 10-12 hours, the luxury experience covers the Mekong Delta and Cu Chi Tunnels.
Activities include boating, biking, and exploration, with a traditional Vietnamese barbeque lunch included. The guided tour provides transportation from Ho Chi Minh City and offers instant mobile ticketing for convenience.
While non-refundable with no changes or cancellations allowed, the tour has received an impressive 5.0 rating based on 38 reviews, with travelers praising the scenic landscapes and culture.
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Ho Chi Minh: Private Tour Dinner Cruise 5 Stars Set Menu
For those seeking a more luxurious dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, the private tour dinner cruise on the Saigon River offers a 5-star set menu and captivating views of the city’s skyline at night.
The 5-hour tour includes pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and a 3-hour dinner cruise. Guests can enjoy a buffet Vietnamese dinner or a set menu if the buffet is fully booked.
The experience is highlighted by live music performances and the opportunity to see Ho Chi Minh City landmarks from the water.
The tour is priced at Kč 2,782 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Water Puppet Show/ Foot Massage – Dinner Cruise Saigon Night Private Tour
The “Water Puppet Show/ Foot Massage – Dinner Cruise Saigon Night Private Tour” offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience the enchanting water puppetry while also indulging in a relaxing foot and hand massage, all complemented by a delightful dinner cruise along the Saigon River.
Priced at $80 per person, with prices varying based on group size, the tour provides a 5-6 hour experience that includes a sightseeing tour, traditional Vietnamese entertainment, and entrance fees for the chosen activity.
The package offers a non-refundable policy, but includes dinner, gratuities, and pickup service.
Travelers can choose from water puppets or foot and hand massage, with alcoholic beverages available for an additional charge.
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From Ho Chi Minh City: Enjoy The Romantic Dinner On Cruise
In the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, visitors can embark on a captivating dinner cruise along the Saigon River.
This 4-hour romantic experience allows guests to admire the city’s vibrant lights at night while savoring a delicious meal.
The cruise offers a set menu dinner on the first floor, with additional charges for buffet or set menu on other floors.
Drinks are included, and a live tour guide is available in multiple languages.
Guests can capture memorable moments in a romantic atmosphere and listen to melodious music during the cruise.
The experience is priced at Kč 1,181 per person, and private group options are available.
Read our full review: From Ho Chi Minh City: Enjoy The Romantic Dinner On Cruise Review
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Water Puppet Show & Dinner on Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
What better way to take in Vietnamese culture than by witnessing a captivating water puppet show and embarking on a dinner cruise along the Saigon River?
This unique experience in Ho Chi Minh City starts with a pickup from your hotel in District 1 or 4 and takes you to the Saigon Central Post Office, where the tour begins. You’ll be treated to a traditional water puppet performance, a centuries-old rural art form.
Then, you’ll enjoy a dinner cruise on the Saigon River, with vegetarian options available. The evening concludes back at the starting point.
With prices ranging from €28 to €86, these tours cater to various budgets and group sizes, offering a memorable culture in Vietnam’s vibrant southern hub.
Read our full review: Water Puppet Show & Dinner on Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City Review
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Saigon: Dinner Cruise With Vietnamese Cuisine and Live Music
One of the best ways to savor the delectable flavors of Vietnamese cuisine and take in the mesmerizing sights of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline is through a Saigon dinner cruise.
Priced from $51.21 per person, this 3-hour experience includes a sumptuous buffet dinner and live music entertainment aboard an elegant cruise vessel.
The small-group tour, limited to 11 participants, offers a romantic night on the water with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
The cruise departs at 7 PM from Bach Dang harbor, with pickup from your hotel at 6:45 PM, and returns around 9 PM after a scenic journey admiring the city’s dazzling lights.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Beverages on the Dinner Cruise?
Bringing your own beverages on a dinner cruise is generally not allowed. Most cruise operators prohibit outside food and drinks to ensure the smooth operation of the dining experience and to comply with licensing regulations.
Is There a Dress Code for the Dinner Cruise Experience?
Most dinner cruises in Ho Chi Minh City don’t have a strict dress code, but guests are generally expected to wear smart casual attire. Formal wear isn’t necessary, but guests should avoid overly casual clothing like shorts or flip-flops.
How Accessible Are the Dinner Cruises for People With Disabilities?
The dinner cruises in Ho Chi Minh City generally accommodate guests with disabilities, with accessible boarding, seating, and restrooms. However, it’s best to check with the specific cruise operator to ensure their facilities and services meet the individual’s needs.
Can I Request Specific Dietary Accommodations for the Dinner Cruise?
Yes, you can request specific dietary accommodations for the dinner cruise. Most cruise operators are happy to cater to guests’ dietary needs, so you can simply inform them of your requirements when booking.
What Is the Cancellation Policy for the Dinner Cruise Bookings?
The dinner cruise booking’s cancellation policy typically allows for full refunds if cancelled 72 hours prior to the event. However, there may be processing fees for cancellations within 72 hours. Guests should review the policy details when making their reservation.
The Sum Up
Ho Chi Minh City offers a variety of dining experiences, from street food tours to dinner cruises. Visitors can enjoy Vietnamese cuisine while taking in the city’s nightlife and cultural attractions, such as water puppet shows. These dining experiences provide a memorable way to explore the culinary and entertainment options of this vibrant destination.