Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City offers a vibrant and exciting experience. With its abundance of rooftop bars, bustling street food scenes and engaging nightlife, the city comes alive after dark. From the lively atmosphere of Bui Vien Street to enchanting dinner cruises along the Saigon River, as well as the opportunity to explore famous landmarks illuminated at night, Ho Chi Minh City provides a diverse range of options for those seeking an unforgettable nighttime adventure.
- Rooftop bars
- Street food tour
- Nightlife tours
- Bien Vien Street
- Best bars
- Best clubs
- Walking Street
- Dinner cruise
- Saigon Opera House
- Explore city landmarks at night
- Ben Thanh Night Market
Tips to stay safe while exploring nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City boasts the best nightlife in Vietnam, thanks to its vibrant and modern atmosphere. However, it’s essential to prioritize safety while enjoying the city’s nighttime activities. Follow these tips:
1. Use reliable taxi companies or the Grab app for secure transportation.
2. Be mindful of your alcohol consumption and avoid getting into risky situations.
3. Watch out for street racing and remain cautious while crossing the streets, especially at night.
4. Avoid late-night karaoke venues that may engage in illegal activities.
5. Practice general safety measures such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not leaving drinks unattended while clubbing or bar-hopping.
1. Rooftop bars
Roof top bars, also known as sky bars, are a must-visit experience in Ho Chi Minh City. With its modern skyline and towering buildings, the city offers a variety of rooftop bars to suit different budgets and preferences. There’s no better way to experience the vibrant nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City than sipping a cocktail on a rooftop, marveling at the sunset and the sparkling lights of the city turned on.
Here are some of the best rooftop bars you should check out:
Chill Skybar – Located in District 1, Chill Skybar offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its rooftop terrace. It has a trendy and sophisticated ambiance, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
Level 23 Wine Bar – Situated on the 23rd floor of the Sheraton Saigon Hotel, Level 23 Wine Bar offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Saigon River. It’s an ideal place to enjoy a wide selection of wines and cocktails in a chic and elegant setting.
Eon Heli Bar – Perched atop the Bitexco Financial Tower, Eon Heli Bar is one of the highest rooftop bars in the city. The bar offers 360-degree panoramic views, allowing you to enjoy the stunning cityscape while sipping on your favorite drinks.
Breeze Sky Bar – Located on the 5th floor of the Majestic Saigon Hotel, Breeze Sky Bar provides a relaxed and casual atmosphere. It offers fantastic views of the Saigon River and the bustling streets below, making it a great spot to unwind with a refreshing cocktail.
Check out here our list of all the best rooftop bars in Ho Chi Minh city.
2. Street food tour
Embark on a street food adventure in Ho Chi Minh City for an authentic and local experience of Vietnamese cuisine. Join a guided street food tour to discover hidden gems and taste delicious dishes at local eateries.
For a more adventurous twist, opt for a motorbike street food tour and ride through the bustling streets with a knowledgeable guide, uncovering the city’s culinary delights. It’s a perfect choice for those seeking a unique way to explore the nightlife while immersing themselves in the local culture.
3. Nightlife tours
As an alternative for the street food tour, there are also options for special nightlife tours. Although they often do include eating a bit of street food, because you are in Vietnam, you can not go out without eating some street food. But it offers a blend of both culinary delights and exciting evening activities.
These tours provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in the city’s nightlife scene, from sipping classic cocktails at rooftop bars to enjoying drinking a beer with the locals on the street. With knowledgeable guides leading the way, you can explore the best of Ho Chi Minh City’s after-dark attractions.
4. Bien Vien Street
Discover the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Bui Vien Street, the backpacker’s hub of Ho Chi Minh City. Love it or hate it. Similar to Khao San Road in Bangkok, this bustling street is filled with a plethora of bars, clubs, and eateries, offering a diverse range of entertainment options. Even if this kind of nightlife isn’t your primary interest, strolling through Bui Vien Street is an experience in itself, with street performers showcasing their talents, from dancers to fire spitters and singers, creating a captivating and energetic ambiance.
5. Best bars in Ho Chi Minh City
When it comes to nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City, the city is dotted with an array of bars catering to different preferences and tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for live jazz, craft beer, exquisite cocktails, or a laid-back local drinking experience with plastic chairs, the city has something for everyone.
Here are five of the best bars in Ho Chi Minh City:
Pasteur Street Brewing Company – Known for its exceptional craft beers, this brewery offers a wide selection of unique and flavorful brews that beer enthusiasts will appreciate.
Snuffbox – A speakeasy-style bar, Snuffbox is renowned for its carefully crafted cocktails and vintage ambiance. Step back in time as you sip on their creative concoctions.
The Refinery – Located in a charming old building, this elegant bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and an extensive menu of handcrafted cocktails, perfect for those looking for a refined drinking experience.
Layla Eatery & Bar – This trendy spot offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Vietnamese cuisine along with a curated selection of craft cocktails. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious food.
6. Best clubs in Ho Chi Minh City
When it comes to clubbing in Ho Chi Minh City, the nightlife scene offers unique experiences. While clubs in the city may differ from those in Western countries, with table appointments and limited dancing, they still provide an exciting atmosphere for party-goers. Here are three of the best clubs to check out:
Lush – Known for its energetic vibe and diverse music genres, Lush is a popular club located in the heart of the city. With multiple floors, each playing different styles of music, it offers a variety of experiences for club enthusiasts.
The Observatory – This place starts as a bar, but transforms into a club at night, featuring underground music and live DJs. It attracts a vibrant crowd of music lovers and party seekers.
7. Walking Street
If you’re looking for a more relaxed and local experience in Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife, exploring the Walking Street is a must. This vibrant spot attracts both tourists and locals who come to unwind and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Whether you choose to sip coffee at a local café or take a leisurely stroll down the street, you’ll have the opportunity to mingle with the friendly locals.
As you wander along the Walking Street, you’ll also be treated to a mix of architectural marvels. From the modern and iconic Bitexco Tower to the charming Cafe Apartment Building and the colonial-era People’s Committee, the street offers a glimpse into the city’s diverse architectural heritage.
Take your time to absorb the sights, sounds, and local flavors of the Walking Street, immersing yourself in the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City at night.
8. Dinner cruise
For a serene and enchanting nightlife experience, consider embarking on a dinner cruise along the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City. Departing from a port conveniently located near the Walking Street, this leisurely cruise allows you to indulge in a delicious dinner while taking in the breathtaking views of the city’s modern skyline. Some cruises even offer traditional music performances, adding a touch of cultural charm to your evening. Sit back, relax, and let the gentle river breeze and captivating scenery create a memorable dining experience.
9. Saigon Opera House
The Saigon Opera House, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is not only a cultural landmark but also a vibrant hub for nightlife. This architectural gem showcases a stunning blend of French colonial and Vietnamese design, setting the stage for captivating performances. From classical music concerts to ballet and theatrical shows, the Saigon Opera House offers an elegant and sophisticated evening of entertainment. Immerse yourself in the rich arts and culture scene of the city by attending a performance at this iconic venue.
10. Explore city landmarks at night
Of course, exploring the city’s landmarks at night offers a whole new perspective and ambiance. One must-visit landmark is the iconic Landmark 81, the tallest building in Vietnam, which illuminates the city’s skyline. Additionally, other architectural marvels such as the Bitexco Financial Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace transform into mesmerizing sights when lit up at night. Take a leisurely stroll and soak in the enchanting atmosphere of these landmarks, capturing the city’s beauty after dark.
11. Ben Thanh Night Market
Another fantastic nightlife option in Ho Chi Minh City is the Ben Thanh Night Market. Located right next to the regular Ben Thanh Market, this bustling night market comes alive after the regular market closes. Here, you can immerse yourself in a vibrant atmosphere filled with street food stalls, souvenir shops, and local vendors selling various goods. Indulge in a gastronomic adventure by sampling delicious Vietnamese street food, ranging from banh mi and pho to grilled seafood and tropical fruits. It’s a perfect place to satisfy your cravings and experience the energetic night scene of the city.
Additionally, don’t miss the Ben Thanh Street Food Market, a trendy food hall nearby, offering a wide selection of Vietnamese cuisine in a more modern and hygienic setting.
