Contrasts of Saigon - Urban Walking Tour

Discover a quieter, local side of Saigon through markets, backstreets and riverside communities just beyond the city centre.

This morning, you will leave the downtown area for a short drive over Khanh Hoi Bridge towards District 4. Although it sits just a few kilometres from the city centre, the area offers a very different view of Saigon’s daily life.

From there, starting at a modern apartment building on Ton Dan Street, you will stroll through the neighbourhood to glimpse a typical Saigonese morning. Along the way, follow smaller streets and alleyways before reaching a tiny pagoda for a brief visit.

Shortly afterwards, you will continue on to Xom Chieu Market. As you arrive at the market’s busiest time, you will rub shoulders with housewives selecting the freshest food for their families. At the same time, you will witness lively bartering and the colourful movement of people and goods.

Next, continue by car to Tan Thuan Bridge in District 7. From here, walk along the channel to see houseboats docking along the banks. These boats sell fruits and vegetables grown on farms in the Mekong Delta and also serve as homes for their owners. Meanwhile, as you walk beside the river, you may stop at local sites such as a church, a kindergarten, or a high school.

After another short drive deeper into District 7, you will reach Phu My Hung. This area is known as a Vietnamese “Garden City” and features many parks and green spaces. In particular, the riverfront attracts locals throughout the day. People come here to exercise, socialise, and enjoy the parks. Overall, you will experience a different side of Saigon, away from bright lights and busy streets. Finally, after a cool drink at a local coffee shop, you will return downtown.

What you’ll do

• Cross into District 4 to explore everyday Saigon life, walking through backstreets, alleyways and a small local pagoda.
• Visit Xom Chieu market at its busiest, witnessing bartering, fresh produce trading and daily routines of local families.
• Walk along the river in District 7 to see houseboats selling fruit and vegetables from the Mekong Delta, many doubling as family homes.
• Discover Phu My Hung, Saigon’s garden city, with parks, riverfront spaces and a relaxed coffee stop before returning downtown.