Private Motorbike Tour Ho Chi Minh: Notre Dame, Chinatown & Food

Summary

Saigon Local Motorbike Adventure: Hidden Gems & Street Eats

You’ll zip through Ho Chi Minh City like a local—cathedrals, temples, hidden alleys, and markets—all with a friendly guide who knows every shortcut and snack stop.

What’s the experience like?

Right from the start, you feel the city’s pulse—motorbikes weaving past, the smell of strong coffee in the air. Our guide, Linh, a university student, picked us up right at our hotel. She handed me a helmet (a bit too big but comfy), and off we went into the morning traffic. The first stop was Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral. It’s hard to miss those red bricks and twin bell towers—French colonial style standing tall against scooters and street vendors selling iced tea. Linh shared how locals still come here for quiet moments or wedding photos, even though it’s always buzzing outside.

A quick ride around the corner brought us to the Central Post Office. The yellow walls and arched windows look straight out of Europe, but inside it’s all Vietnamese energy—kids mailing postcards, old men reading newspapers under whirring ceiling fans. Our guide pointed out Mr. Duong Van Ngo, the famous letter writer who sits by the entrance (if you’re lucky he’ll be there). I noticed how cool it felt inside compared to the sticky heat outside—a real break from Saigon’s humidity.

Next up: Cholon, Saigon’s Chinatown. The streets here are tighter and louder—vendors shouting over each other at Bình Tây Market, baskets of dragon fruit stacked high. We ducked into a tiny noodle shop for bowls of hu tieu; honestly, I’d never tasted broth that good before. Linh led us through alleys to Bà Thiên Hậu Temple—the incense smoke is thick and sweet here—and then to Tam Son Pagoda where locals light candles for luck. We also found Chua Van Phat (Temple of Ten Thousand Buddhas) tucked away down an alley; it’s packed with golden statues from floor to ceiling.

Before heading back, we stopped at a flower market I’d never have found alone—rows of bright orchids and marigolds from across Vietnam. The sellers were already packing up for lunch but still let us wander through. By then my shirt was sticking to my back but Linh handed me an iced sugarcane juice—sweetest thing ever after hours in Saigon sun.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Ho Chi Minh City Highlights

• Visit Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral
• Explore Saigon Central Post Office
• Walk through Cholon (Saigon Chinatown)
• See Chua Van Phat Temple
• Browse local flower market

Top questions

Is this motorbike tour safe for beginners?

Yes! All guides are experienced drivers and provide helmets. You just sit back and enjoy—we handle the rest.

Can I try vegetarian street food on this tour?

Absolutely! Just let your guide know your preferences—they’ll find great veggie options along the way.

Are infant seats really available for motorbikes?

Yes, specialized infant seats are provided if needed—just mention it when booking so we can prepare in advance.

What happens if it rains during the tour?

No worries! We carry rain ponchos and can adjust stops as needed so you still get a full experience.

What’s included

Your own local guide/driver with private transport by motorbike; bottled water; drinks; street food tastings; coffee or tea stops; all entrance fees included.