Best 6 Culinary Tours in Vietnam
Vietnam is a paradise for food lovers. With its vibrant street food culture, fragrant herbs, and balance of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors, Vietnamese cuisine is unlike any other in the world. Whether you’re sampling pho from a Hanoi sidewalk or learning to make fresh spring rolls in a Hoi An cooking class, every bite tells a story.
For travelers who want to experience Vietnam through its flavors, culinary tours offer a deeper, more delicious way to connect with the country’s culture. Below are six of the best culinary tours across Vietnam, each offering something unique for curious foodies.
1. Hanoi Street Food Walking Tour
Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, is known for its buzzing Old Quarter where food stalls line the streets and aromas from sizzling woks fill the air. One of the top culinary experiences here is a guided street food walking tour.
A local guide leads you through hidden alleyways to discover traditional dishes like bun cha (grilled pork with vermicelli noodles), cha ca (turmeric fish with dill), and of course, pho bo (beef noodle soup). You’ll eat shoulder-to-shoulder with locals on tiny plastic stools—just like the Hanoians do every day.
Many Vietnam travel agencies offer customizable food walks that include visits to bustling wet markets, opportunities to try unique snacks like fertilized duck egg (balut), and even a tasting of local rice wine.
2. Hoi An Cooking Class and Market Tour
Hoi An is famous for its blend of cultures, which is also reflected in its cuisine. A cooking class in Hoi An typically starts with a visit to the local market, where you’ll shop for fresh herbs, vegetables, and spices alongside your chef-guide.
Back at the cooking school—often held in a countryside setting or a riverside garden—you’ll learn to prepare iconic dishes such as banh xeo (Vietnamese savory pancakes), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), and Hoi An’s signature cao lau noodles.
This hands-on experience gives you a real feel for Vietnamese cooking techniques and flavor balancing. Some of the best Vietnam tours include this as a must-do activity when passing through Central Vietnam.
3. Saigon After Dark Motorbike Food Tour
If you want to feel the pulse of Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), hop on the back of a scooter and eat your way through the city like a local. These tours are led by local guides who take you off the beaten path into residential districts that tourists rarely explore.
You’ll stop at street food stalls and family-run eateries, trying dishes like banh mi, sizzling seafood, and caramelized pork claypot. Many tours also include a stop at a dessert shop or a trendy rooftop bar.
This tour is a favorite for adventurous eaters and night owls. It’s a fun, immersive way to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife and dining culture.
4. Hue Royal Cuisine Experience
Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, offers a more refined and elegant culinary experience. Hue cuisine is known for its complexity, presentation, and royal history. Many dishes here were originally created to serve the Nguyen emperors.
A culinary tour in Hue might include a boat ride along the Perfume River to a traditional garden house, where you’ll enjoy a multi-course royal meal. Expect delicate dishes like banh beo (steamed rice cakes), nem lui (lemongrass pork skewers), and che hat sen (lotus seed sweet soup).
This is one of the most culturally rich food experiences in Vietnam and a hidden gem often overlooked by mainstream travel itineraries.
5. Mekong Delta Floating Market Food Tour
In the lush Mekong Delta, food and life are inseparable from the water. One of the most memorable culinary tours in this region takes you through the floating markets of Cai Rang or Phong Dien.
You’ll ride in a small boat as vendors cook and sell food directly from their boats. Try noodle soup made right in front of you, or sample local specialties like hu tieu (clear noodle soup) and tropical fruits straight from the orchards.
Many Vietnam travel agencies offer eco-friendly Mekong culinary tours that combine market visits with a traditional cooking class in a village home.
6. Northern Vietnam Culinary & Cultural Journey
If you’re looking for a multi-day experience that dives deep into food and culture, consider joining a culinary tour that spans Northern Vietnam. These tours often include Hanoi, Sapa, and Ninh Binh.
You’ll explore ethnic minority markets, learn how to make sticky rice in banana leaves, and enjoy home-cooked meals in rural villages. Expect dishes that differ from Southern cuisine—more use of pickled vegetables, chargrilled meats, and hearty broths.
Some of the best Vietnam tours tailor these experiences for small groups, providing a balance of food, culture, and adventure off the tourist trail.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need to book culinary tours in advance?
Yes, it’s a good idea to book ahead, especially during peak travel seasons. Some tours—especially cooking classes with limited spots—can fill up quickly.
2. Are the street food tours safe for tourists?
Absolutely. Reputable tours partner with clean and trusted vendors. Plus, having a local guide helps you avoid common food safety risks.
3. What if I have dietary restrictions?
Many tour operators can accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and other dietary needs—just let them know in advance.
4. Can kids join culinary tours?
Yes! Many tours are family-friendly. Cooking classes, in particular, are great for kids and can be tailored to be fun and educational.
5. How do I choose the best Vietnam travel agency for food tours?
Look for agencies that specialize in cultural and culinary travel. Read recent reviews and check if the guides are licensed, fluent in English, and knowledgeable about food culture.
Final Thoughts
A culinary tour in Vietnam is more than just a series of meals—it’s a flavorful journey through the country’s history, traditions, and daily life. From bustling cities to peaceful villages, every region offers its own unique dishes and food stories.
Whether you’re a casual foodie or a serious gourmet traveler, partnering with a trusted Vietnam travel agency ensures you won’t miss any hidden gems. And when it comes to unforgettable travel memories, the best Vietnam tours always include a taste of something new.
So pack your appetite and get ready to experience Vietnam one bite at a time.
