Private: The Hidden Treasures of Ho Chi Minh City

Go beyond the typical tourist attractions and go off-the-beaten-path sights in Saigon. Get to experience the real life in the city as you wander down narrow streets, discover the hidden gems and check out local markets. Get the perfect overview of the real lifestyle of Vietnamese people and join this tour for an authentic local experience. Explore Ho Chi Minh City hidden gems with an in-the-know local guide and hear all about city’s interesting past. Meet your private guide at Ben Thanh Market and take a bus together to Chinatown, where you’ll stop at a Fruit Market. Enjoy a fruit tasting while you head towards Le Quang Sung Street, a must visit street for understanding Vietnamese life. It is the only place in town where they sell wedding betel and areca. Betel leaves, Areca nuts or Areca nut flower are very important in Vietnamese marriage ceremony. Learn about Vietnamese & Chinese communities as you head to iconic Binh Tay Market, known for its beautiful Sino-French architecture. Wander around and take in the views of food stands, while you can ask your local guide to tell more about local’s lifestyle. Next stop is Cha Tham Church, built around 19th century. This decaying light-caramel painted church exudes a sleepy, tropical feel. After hearing the local stories about the temple, continue to other markets like Kim Bien and Dai Quang Minh. Dai Quang Minh Market is heaven for Saigon creatives since it is full of shops that sell countless accessories for sewing and crafting. Continue your journey to other beautiful temples where you and your group can adopt traditional gestures by making wishes for good fortune. Absorb the sacred atmosphere of the Thien Hau Temple, a revered structure built in the 19th century and dedicated to Thien Hau, goddess of the seafarers. Time for a coffee break at one of oldest cafes in town, Cheo Leo. The place was founded by Vinh Ngo in 1938 and now it’s run by Ngo's eldest daughter. She still brews the coffee in a traditional way, with an old-fashioned cloth strainer and a clay pot. Finish your private tour with a visit to Ban Co Market, a place where only Vietnamese go. The markets it’s full of stalls with clothes, jewelry, handbags or food. And how great it is to have your own private host! Nobody here speaks English, so either practice your Vietnamese or let your host do all the talking. Head back to the meeting point together with your local guide and say your goodbyes before you leave. Pick any of our local hosts for an authentic Vietnamese experience away from touristic spots. You can personalize this experience to fit your traveling needs, let your host know all about it!