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Tailor-Made Trip

Saigon Scooter Tour: Attractions & Hidden Gems in Saigon

SGVBT2 Join-in or Private 04 Hours Saigon

Overview

Discover the true spirit of Ho Chi Minh City on the back of a scooter — the most authentic way to experience Saigon. Ride through five different districts, from iconic city landmarks to hidden alleyways, vibrant local markets, ancient temples, and the bustling streets of Chinatown.

This experience combines Saigon’s famous attractions with lesser-known local areas that many visitors never get the chance to see. Guided by friendly local riders, you’ll explore the city through the eyes of the people who live here every day.

Highlights

  • Experience Saigon like a local on the back of a scooter
  • Explore both famous attractions and hidden local neighborhoods
  • Ride through five different districts of Ho Chi Minh City
  • Visit the historic Chinatown area and ancient temples.
  • Discover hidden alleys, old apartment blocks, and local markets.
  • Admire French colonial architecture and modern city landmarks.
  • Learn about local culture, traditions, and daily life from local guides.
  • Small-group experience for a more personal and authentic atmosphere.
  • Enjoy local snacks and refreshing drinks during the tour.

Itinerary

Departures
  • Morning: 08:00 – 12:00
  • Afternoon: 13:00 – 17:00
  1. City Highlights

    This half-day scooter adventure is designed to give you a complete introduction to Saigon’s culture, history, architecture, and local life.

    Ride through the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City while discovering hidden corners that most tourists never see. Along the way, your local guide will share stories about the city’s past, present, and rapid transformation.

    Visit some of Saigon’s most iconic attractions and admire the beautiful mix of French colonial architecture and modern Vietnamese city life.

    You will visit or pass by:

    • Notre Dame Cathedral
    • Central Post Office
    • Saigon Opera House
    • Ho Chi Minh City Hall
    • Nguyen Hue Walking Street
    • Famous apartment café buildings
    • French Quarter area

    Stop for photos and enjoy the lively atmosphere of downtown Saigon.

  2. Hidden Gems & Local Life

    Leave the tourist areas behind and discover the authentic side of the city through narrow alleyways and local neighborhoods.

    Explore hidden residential alleys where Vietnamese families live, work, cook, and socialize every day. See how local communities continue to preserve their traditions in the middle of a fast-changing modern city.

    Visit Chinatown — one of the oldest and largest Chinatowns in the world — where different cultures, religions, and lifestyles blend together.

    Discover local highlights including:

    • The Venerable Thich Quang Duc Monument
    • Cambodian Market
    • Traditional local streets and hidden passageways
    • Old apartment areas and local markets

    Enjoy a local snack and cold drink while experiencing the atmosphere of Saigon’s street culture.

  3. Chinatown & Ancient Temples

    Continue into District 5 to visit Thien Hau Pagoda , also known as the Temple of the Lady of the Sea.

    Built by the Chinese community in the 18th century, this temple remains one of the most important spiritual sites in Chinatown . Learn about traditional Chinese-Vietnamese beliefs, incense rituals, and local religious culture.

    On the way back, ride through Nguyen Trai Street — one of Saigon’s busiest fashion streets filled with hundreds of local shops and colorful city life.

    • Duration: Approximately 3.5–4 hours
    • Guests ride as passengers behind experienced local drivers
    • Itinerary may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions
    • Vegetarian food options are available upon request
    • Suitable for all travelers who want to experience Saigon beyond the typical tourist route.

Inclusions

Included

  • Scooter transportation
  • English-speaking local guide
  • Experienced and licensed scooter driver
  • Local snack and drink
  • Helmet and rain poncho if needed.

Not included

  • Personal expenses
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Services not mentioned in the inclusion.
Prices per person by travel date
Travel datesAdult 12+Child 2–11Infant Under 2
All dates$70QuotedQuoted

“Quoted”: we confirm this price when we reply to your request.

  • Prices are in US dollars and include taxes.
  • A 30% deposit confirms your booking — 50% for groups of 7 or more, infants included.
  • VAT invoices are available on request.

We accept

Book two different tours, save 10%Pair this ride with another tour — 10% off the total price.

Reviews

5.0 4,565 reviews on Tripadvisor

What travelers say about Vietnam Backstreet Tours across all our rides — 98% of reviews are positive.

  • Tripadvisor

    "Most welcoming, enthusiastic and knowledgeable"

    We arranged a half day countryside and Hanoi City tour on Vespa motorbikes through our hotel. Tom and Duc (Donald) were most welcoming, enthusiastic and knowledgeable, answering any questions we had…

    Samir P· Couple

  • Google

    "A truly unforgettable experience"

    We had a fantastic time in Hanoi with Vietnam Backstreet Tours. We discovered amazing places and learned so much! Tim was so knowledgeable and shared many stories with us. We loved the tour!

    Ruth Amarilla· United States · Family

  • Facebook

    "I can really recommend this highlight"

    Today we did a wonderful motorbike tour in Hanoi with the guys from Vietnam Backstreet. Many thanks to Mr. Boo and his team for all the impressions we got from Hanoi — we will keep them in our mind!

    Michael Herrmann· Germany · Friends

Q&As

Do I need any riding experience?

No. You ride as a passenger behind one of our professional, experienced drivers — just sit back and enjoy the ride.

Where does the tour start and end?

We pick you up free of charge anywhere within 3 km of the city centre, and drop you off there too — pick-up and drop-off can be two different places.

Do you provide helmets and rain gear?

Yes. Helmets are provided, and on wet days we hand out two-piece raincoats and stop at covered places along the way.

Can I bring children?

Yes — you can include children (2–11) and infants (under 2) in your booking. We confirm their prices when we reply to your request.

Can I change my tour date?

Date changes are free with at least 24 hours' notice. Changes made within 24 hours of the tour are charged 30% of the tour price.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancel more than 24 hours ahead and we charge no cancellation fee (your bank or PayPal may keep a transaction fee of about 5%). Cancellations within 24 hours are charged in full. Refunds take 7–14 working days.

What if the weather turns bad?

Light rain doesn't stop us. If severe weather forces us to cancel, you can move to another date free of charge or get a 100% refund of the tour price, less bank fees.

Do you offer travel insurance?

Travel insurance is optional. We can arrange PTI cover for about US$3.50 per person per day.

Can you arrange a private tour for a larger group?

Yes. We run private tours and tours for larger groups, and can tailor the itinerary to you — tell us what you have in mind in the booking form or on WhatsApp.

More FAQs

From $70 / person

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