Vietnam is a country that many party enthusiasts love. Couples, family, friends and especially solo travellers find this place to be their home. And, with so many cities holding unique specialities, I am going to share my experience on Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife.
When I landed in Hanoi, I had the best time ever, taking in numerous historical sights. Hanoi is the city that pulls all the tourists to Vietnam. There are multiple things to do in Hanoi, which is a good thing, but it also makes the place more crowded.
I enjoy both, which is why my Vietnam itinerary includes all the best cities- crowded, laid-back places, luxury spots, hidden gems, and so many.
To talk about Ho Chi Minh, it is different; this is the economic hub of Vietnam. So, you get to see both worlds here – the touristy and the regular life of working people.
If you’re doubtful whether it’s even worth travelling for its nightlife, then don’t be. Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife begins with walking streets, chaotic clubs, rooftop bars, and markets, among many other things that keep the night going. So, let me guide you through.
Best Places and Things to Do for Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife
A city like Ho Chi Minh can’t be expressed enough through words. You really need to be there to see the glowing lights that shine in the river. And the streets are filled with locals ready to share their interesting adventure stories.
Don’t wait any longer. Here are the most exciting nighttime activities you can try when you go to Ho Chi Minh.
Bui Vien Street
The street is a backpacker’s party hub. If you’re staying anywhere in central, you can access this place easily. It is located in District 1, which boasts numerous cafes, eateries, pubs, and more to cater to everyone’s preferences.
Taking public transport is very easy, most of them have a stop on Bui Vien Street. Or simply book a ride with Grab; the distance will be shorter, and the cost will also be lower.
When you visit here, time will pass more quickly as you can enjoy a wide variety of delicious Vietnamese street food. Then there are a lot of stalls where you can get craft beer at a cheaper price.
It never stops there – the street is packed with vibrant street performances like circus acts, the Dragon Dance, or music performances to keep the street lively.
- Time: 7:00 pm – 12:00 am
Chill Skybar
This Chill Skybar is the most popular rooftop bar in Ho Chi Minh. It is truly glamorous, with all the lounges and divine modern details in the infrastructure. The bar doesn’t just attract with its looks, but there are also many things happening inside to make it a memorable night.
There are various sections where you can sit and relax, including the lounge, outdoor area, VIP section, or at a signature table. Each of these areas offers you a unique vibe and views.
Then you get special events like Ladies’ Crush on Tuesdays. And there is a beat bliss event on Thursday. At this time, the place will be filled with Hip-hop and K-pop or any of the most popular music to energise the whole place.
- Happy Hour: 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
- Opening Time: 5:30 PM – 1:30 AM
Ben Thanh Night Market
This is the oldest market in Ho Chi Minh, which is not a regular market where you just roam around buying souvenirs. Here, you can experience and savour the vibrant culture of Vietnam through a cultural and culinary journey.
There are four entrances to this market: South, East, West, and North. So, wherever you are staying, see the entrance close to your area and book a ride. Each of the entrances covers different goods. If you know what to buy, it makes the job easier, and you need not search.
In the south, you can find a variety of fabrics and dry fruits. The north gate has all the perishables, like fruits and vegetables. In the east, you will find a variety of unique and speciality candies.
The west gate is filled with souvenirs, numerous shoe shops, and a variety of items to purchase. As you walk inside, you will find many stalls selling delicious local food and snacks.
- Time: 7:30 am – 10:00 pm
Note: Many shops are open from 7:30 am, but if you are going to buy souvenirs and eat food, then go after 6:00 pm.
Nguyen Hue Street
Nguyen Hue Street is located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh, and this area makes it easy for many travellers. There are so many popular places you can walk up to after roaming around.
We all know planning to experience all of Saigon’s nightlife can be tough. But this street doesn’t need a plan. When you enter the street, you will automatically find many things to do.
I’ll tell you how this street is different from the others you read about above. Here, you find multiple places to visit. It is lined up with architectural buildings and landmarks.
When you are here, you can go to Apartment 42 Nguyen Hue, which is the most talked-about place in Ho Chi Minh. Then watch street performances for free and stop by all the food stalls for delicious food.
Just going here is enough; you don’t even need a plan. If you are spontaneous, it makes it easy, hop into each stall and the places you find here.
Saigon Opera House
The Opera House in Ho Chi Minh, also known as the Municipal Theatre, was designed by French architect Eugène Ferret. In the past, this was the place to watch ballet and many theatrical performances.
At present, this Opera House features Vietnamese artistic performances. You can expect to see “A O show”, which shows the life of urban and rural Vietnam.
The next show is “Teh Dar”, through which you will get to know the stories of tribes in Vietnam. “The Mist” show will take you into the lives of farming communities.
So, a Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife doesn’t always involve parties and roaming in the markets. You can also go to the Opera House to learn more about Vietnam.
- Cost: Each show can cost approximately 2500 INR per person.
Go on a Vespa Ride
What a fun and joyful experience it will be when you drive around the city at night. You can book a Vespa tour, and the local guide will take you to all the best spots in Ho Chi Minh.
Simply sit back and relax. You can talk to them the whole ride about the city and ask any question that pops into your head. And they will tell you so much about their life and the best stories of this city.
There are many groups and a few activities that vary based on that. This is a tour that will take you to explore all the best street food spots, hidden music bars, and introduce you to the best beer in town.
- Duration: 4 hours
- Cost: Approximately 5500 INR per person
Ho Chi Minh City Book Street
Are you someone who loves books? Then, visit Ho Chi Minh City Book Street, a fictional universe where you will get lost in so many stories. You can find this book lane in Nguyen Van Binh Street, where the books, cafes and hidden gems are lined up.
This experience may not be suitable for all, but it is definitely one of a kind in the list of Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife.
You can just go there one evening and stop by every stall, reading the books. You will find a diverse selection of books from around the world. Every type of book can be found here- research books, comics, novels, newspapers, magazines, non-fiction and fiction from all kinds of genres.
Going here is a treat for book lovers. But if you are a friend who is just accompanying them, you will have a great time taking Instagrammable pictures in the streets. So, anyone who goes here will not be bored.
Saigon River Dinner Cruise
The country never disappoints with its beauty. Especially Vietnam’s nightlife just keeps getting better with things like dinner cruises.
This is one hundred per cent a romantic day if you want to take your partner. Or it is definitely worth it even for a calm solo date.
You can book a trip with any of the organisers. You will ride on a double-decker boat to see the city’s night lights and the shimmering river. Additionally, this experience is even more memorable when you sit and watch the sky filled with stars as you sail.
As you fall in love with the views, you will be served with cuisine prepared by the finest chefs and the best cocktails to sip.
- Cost: Starts from 4000 INR per person
The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre
The water puppet performances are a distinctive characteristic of Vietnam, dating back to the Ly Dynasty. In those days, these shows were just fun entertainment for farmers, but now it is culturally recognised by UNESCO as a cultural heritage.
From Hanoi nightlife to Ho Chi Minh in the south, this water puppet show is the best thing to attend for a cultural evening.
Here, eight puppet artists entertain with exceptional storytelling performances. The puppets will be decorated and dressed in vibrant colours. Folk tales and historical incidents influence the stage settings here.
You can see performances like dragon & lion dances, frog-catching, phoenix dances, boat racing, and many more. Kids and the elderly will have a good time here.
- Cost: 1400 INR per person
Yoko Cafe
Yoko Cafe is definitely one of the hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City, located in the Nguyễn Thị Diệu area. If you need something for intimate gatherings and still want to go to the crazy party places in Vietnam, this is the kind for you.
It’s not just a random cafe to sip coffee; you can expect to come here for the best live music in town. The band performers will play a variety of music, including pop and some original songs, which will truly resonate with everyone.
The staff here also vibe with you, and they are super sweet. The service here is outstanding, from the best food to the atmosphere; every bit of the place will impress you. If you’re looking for the best clubs in Ho Chi Minh, this is a must-visit spot.
- Time: 08:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Conclusion:
With many things to do in a country, enjoying the nightlife is a great way to explore and check the time if you are a party animal. You can see a lot of people when you go inside a club, and you will bump into many people.
Everyone is super friendly, especially when you’re solo travelling. You’ll somehow end up talking to many people and making them your friends. From night street walks, eateries, and cultural spots, each corner of the city offers the best nightlife in Ho Chi Minh.
Frequently Asked Questions on Saigon Nightlife
Can you get vegetarian food in Ho Chi Minh?
Yes, Ho Chi Minh is a main city, and the food choices here are limitless. Additionally, if you’re Indian, you can also find the best Indian restaurant that serves spicy Biryani, soft Naans, and all the best vegetarian dishes.
Is Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh safe?
Exploring nightlife in any country is safe as long as you are responsible. You need to be aware of your surroundings and belongings at all times.
When going to pubs alone, be cautious with the drinks and limit your consumption. Keeping these in mind, you can be safe anywhere you travel.
What are the best clubs in Saigon?
Ho Chi Minh City, formally Saigon, boasts some of the finest nightclubs to hang out in. And the best ones are The Observatory, Bar Lush, Canalis Club, and POCPOC Garden, which are most enjoyed by the locals and tourists as well.
