Saigon Food Tour by US Army Jeep: War Museum, Chinatown & Bunker

What's included

What you'll see and do

1. Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater)

   Meet your guide in front of the Saigon Opera House, or enjoy free pickup from your hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City. Staying farther away? Pickup from other areas is available on request (an extra fee may apply). Just send us your hotel name and address after booking, and we'll confirm the details.

   Pass by without stopping

2. Taste one of Saigon's most famous sandwiches at Banh Mi Huynh Hoa, a legendary shop in the heart of the city. Locals and travelers happily queue here for what many call the most generous banh mi in town. Each crispy, golden baguette is packed to the edges with rich homemade pate, creamy butter spread and layer after layer of Vietnamese cold cuts, including pork roll, ham and shredded pork floss. It's finished with pickled carrots and daikon, fresh cucumber, cilantro and a touch of chili for the perfect balance of savory, fresh and spicy flavors. Banh mi itself is a delicious story of Vietnam's history, born from the French baguette and transformed with local ingredients into something uniquely Vietnamese. Because a Huynh Hoa banh mi is so large and filling, we share it among the group, so you can enjoy every bite while saving room for the next stop. Your guide will tell you the story of this beloved Saigon icon as you eat.

   15 minutes here

3. Discover the spiritual heart of Saigon's Chinatown at Thien Hau Temple, one of the oldest and most beautiful Chinese temples in the city. Built by the Cantonese community in the 18th century, it is dedicated to Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, who is believed to protect sailors, fishermen and travelers. Step through the gate and you'll be surrounded by rich colors, carved wooden details and fragrant smoke. Look up at the roof to see intricate ceramic figurines depicting scenes from Chinese legends, one of the temple's most famous features. Inside, giant spiral incense coils hang from the ceiling, burning slowly for days or even weeks. Many carry small red cards with the names and wishes of the families who offered them. With your guide explaining local beliefs and traditions, you'll get a peaceful and fascinating look at the culture that shaped Chinatown for centuries.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

4. Taste your way through Saigon with a selection of the city's most loved local bites, carefully chosen to fit perfectly between your sightseeing stops. In Chinatown, sit down at a long-running family eatery for a small bowl of noodles, such as duck noodle soup slow-cooked with Chinese herbs, or a classic Saigon pho. Pair it with crispy chive cakes, a favorite street snack with a golden outside and soft, savory filling. Finish on a sweet note with traditional Chinese-style dessert soup, light and refreshing after a warm morning in the city. Portions are kept small, so you can enjoy every taste while still having plenty of energy to explore. Vegetarian options are available on request.

   30 minutes here · Admission included

5. Step inside one of Saigon's most fascinating hidden war sites: the secret weapons bunker of the Saigon commandos. From the street, it looks like an ordinary family house. But beneath the floor lies a hidden cellar, reached through a concealed trapdoor, where weapons and explosives were secretly stored during the Vietnam War. These weapons were used in the 1968 Tet Offensive, when commando units launched surprise attacks on key targets in the city, including the Independence Palace. Incredibly, the bunker was built and kept hidden right in the heart of Saigon, under the noses of the authorities. Today, the house has been preserved as a historical site. You can look down into the cellar, see how the hiding place was cleverly disguised, and view photos and objects from that time. With your guide sharing the stories of the people who risked everything here, this small stop offers a powerful and unforgettable glimpse into the city's wartime past.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

6. Discover the exquisite craftsmanship and timeless beauty of Vietnamese artistry at the Dai Viet Lacquerware Factory, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh city. This renowned factory invites you into a world where tradition meets innovation, showcasing the meticulous process behind the creation of stunning lacquerware. As you explore the factory, you'll witness skilled artisans at work, transforming raw materials into intricate masterpieces through techniques passed down through generations. Each piece, whether a decorative plate, vase, or jewelry box, embodies the rich cultural heritage and artistic finesse of Vietnam. The vibrant colors and intricate designs are a testament to the dedication and passion of the craftsmen. At Dai Viet, you can also try your hand at this ancient craft, creating your own lacquered souvenir under the guidance of expert artisans. A visit to Dai Viet Lacquerware Factory is not just a shopping experience but a journey into the heart of Vietnamese artistry.

   20 minutes here · Admission included

7. War Remnants Museum

   The War Remnants Museum, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is a profound journey through Vietnam's turbulent history. Established in 1975, this museum offers a stark, compelling look at the impact of the Vietnam War. Its exhibits include haunting photographs, poignant personal artifacts, and military equipment like tanks, helicopters, and fighter jets. The museum's most gripping feature is the collection of graphic imagery and detailed accounts of wartime atrocities, highlighting the resilience and suffering of the Vietnamese people. The War Remnants Museum is more than a historical archive; it's a sobering reminder of the horrors of war and a powerful call for peace. Visitors leave with a deep sense of the war's lasting legacy and an enhanced appreciation for the human spirit's capacity to endure and overcome.

   50 minutes here · Admission included

8. Saigon Central Post Office

   Experience a unique dining adventure amidst the grandeur of the Saigon Central Post Office. Step into this architectural masterpiece, where history and gastronomy intertwine in a captivating fusion. Savor a traditional Vietnamese lunch served in the elegant surroundings of this iconic landmark. Delight in a menu crafted to tantalize your taste buds with authentic flavors and local delicacies. As you dine, marvel at the soaring ceilings, ornate columns, and exquisite architectural details that adorn the post office's interior. Let the ambiance transport you to a bygone era while you indulge in a culinary journey through Vietnam's rich culinary heritage. From fragrant pho and savory banh mi to delicate spring rolls and vibrant salads, each dish is a celebration of the country's diverse and vibrant cuisine. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a memorable dining experience, lunch at the Saigon Central Post Office promises to be an unforgettable affair.

   10 minutes here · Admission included

9. The Independence Palace

   Standing majestically in the heart of Saigon, the Reunification Palace, also known as Independence Palace, is a powerful symbol of Vietnam's turbulent history & resilient spirit. This architectural marvel, completed in 1966, served as the presidential headquarters during the Vietnam War. Today, it offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the past with its well-preserved rooms, war command bunkers, historical artifacts. Explore the opulent state rooms, the president's living quarters, and the grand conference hall where critical decisions were made. The palace's stunning 1960s design, featuring elegant lines & spacious interiors, reflects a blend of traditional Vietnamese & modernist styles. The lush gardens & iconic tank display add to the historical ambiance. Visit to the Reunification Palace is not just a step back in time but a profound journey through Vietnam's path to peace and reunification, making it a must-see landmark for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike..

   5 minutes here · Admission included

10. Enjoy a bowl of Vietnam's most iconic dish at Pho Hoa Pasteur, one of Saigon's best-known pho restaurants. Serving hungry locals and visitors for decades, this busy eatery is a true Saigon institution. The heart of every bowl is the broth, simmered for hours with beef bones, charred onion, ginger, star anise and cinnamon until it becomes clear, fragrant and deeply flavorful. It's poured over soft rice noodles and tender slices of beef, from rare steak to well-done brisket. Like locals, you'll customize your bowl at the table with fresh basil, bean sprouts, lime, chili and a dash of hoisin or chili sauce. Many diners also enjoy crispy fried dough sticks dipped into the hot broth. Your guide will show you how Saigon-style pho differs from the northern version and share the story of how this simple noodle soup became a national treasure. We serve a smaller bowl so you can enjoy it fully and still have room for the next tastes.

    30 minutes here · Admission included

Where it starts and ends

Options you can book

• Saigon Highlights (No Food)

  Food Exclusive for this option Pickup included

• Half-Day Historical and Cultural Tour

  Pickup included

Before you book

Cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Languages

en

Ticket

Mobile Only

Runs on

Every day

Group size

Up to 30 travelers per booking

Operated by

Saigon Food Tours By Local Travel Vietnam

Know before you go

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• The remaining time is allotted for the travel time
• An additional fee of approximately $5 to $7 per person will be charged for pickups outside of District 1
• Everyone can join this tour

Photos

Traveler reviews

2 verified traveler reviews for Saigon Food Tour by US Army Jeep: War Museum, Chinatown & Bunker. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.