Welcome to Ho Chi Minh City, often referred to as Saigon, the beating heart of Vietnam’s nightlife scene. As the sun sets and the city lights up, Saigon transforms into a vibrant and pulsating playground for party-goers, food enthusiasts, and culture seekers. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through the diverse nightlife of Saigon, featuring a range of exciting venues and experiences. From bustling night markets and rooftop bars to live music venues, clubs, and cultural shows, prepare yourself for an unforgettable adventure exploring the nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City.
Best Activities for Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City
Ben Thanh Night Market
Address: Intersection of Le Loi, Ham Nghi, Tran Hung Dao, and Le Lai Streets, District 1
$-$$: Affordable street food and merchandise prices, ranging from 20,000 to 100,000 VND.
Ben Thanh Night Market is a bustling open-air market that comes alive after dark, offering a treasure trove of local street food, clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. As the sun sets, the market’s vibrant energy intensifies, and the aroma of delicious street food fills the air. Stroll through the maze of stalls, where you’ll find an array of dishes such as banh mi, banh xeo, and goi cuon, as well as local handicrafts and souvenirs to take home as mementoes of your time in Saigon.
Bui Vien Walking Street
Address: Bui Vien Street, District 1.
$-$$: The cost of food and drinks varies, with street food dishes ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 VND, and beers costing around 30,000 to 50,000 VND.
Bui Vien Walking Street is a lively and energetic pedestrian street, renowned for its vibrant nightlife scene. This bustling area is a hub for bars, restaurants, live music, and street performances. As you walk along the buzzing street, you’ll encounter a diverse mix of locals and tourists, creating an electrifying atmosphere. Whether you want to enjoy a cold beer at one of the lively bars or savour delicious street food from the food vendors lining the street, Bui Vien Walking Street offers an authentic taste of the nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City.
Rooftop Bars and Sky Bars
Saigon boasts an impressive array of rooftop bars and sky bars, offering breathtaking city views, stylish ambience, and a variety of creative cocktails. Enjoy the enchanting cityscape as you relax in a chic setting, sipping on signature cocktails crafted by talented mixologists. From sunset to late into the night, these rooftop bars offer an unparalleled experience of Saigon’s skyline.
Chill Sky Bar
Address: AB Tower, 76A Le Lai Street, District 1.
$-$$: Cocktails range from 150,000 to 400,000 VND.
Located at the top of AB Tower, Chill Sky Bar offers a luxurious and sophisticated setting with stunning city views. The trendy ambience and premium cocktail selection make it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Social Club Rooftop Bar
Address: 76-78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 3.
$-$$: Cocktails range from 200,000 to 400,000 VND.
Nestled atop the elegant Hotel des Arts Saigon, the Social Club Rooftop Bar exudes modernity and sophistication. With its contemporary design and panoramic city vistas, this rooftop bar is perfect for a relaxing evening with friends or a romantic night out.
The View Rooftop Bar
Address: 195 Bui Vien Street, District 1.
$-$$: Cocktails range from 100,000 to 300,000 VND.
Located at the Duc Vuong Hotel, The View Rooftop Bar offers a cosy and relaxed atmosphere with stunning views of Saigon’s skyline. Sit back, sip on a refreshing cocktail, and soak in the vibrant energy of the city below.
Live Music Venues
Saigon is home to numerous live music venues, showcasing talented local and international artists across various genres, from rock and jazz to acoustic and pop. These venues offer a lively atmosphere and a chance to experience the vibrant music scene in the city. Enjoy the performances of skilled musicians and immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms of Saigon.
Acoustic Bar
Address: 6E Ngo Thoi Nhiem Street, District 3.
$-$$: Entrance fees range from 100,000 to 150,000 VND, and drink prices are affordable.
This cosy and intimate venue is a favourite among locals and ex-pats, featuring talented musicians performing acoustic sets. The laid-back ambience and friendly crowd make it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy live music.
Sax n’ Art Jazz Club
Address: 28 Le Loi Street, District 1.
$-$$: Entrance fees range from 150,000 to 200,000 VND, and drink prices are reasonable.
Jazz enthusiasts will be delighted by the smooth melodies and soulful performances at Sax n’ Art Jazz Club. This stylish venue hosts talented jazz musicians who captivate the audience with their improvisation and musical prowess.
Yoko Cafe
Address: 22A Nguyen Thi Dieu Street, District 3.
$-$$: Entrance fees range from 100,000 to 150,000 VND, and drink prices are affordable.
Known for its cosy atmosphere and live music performances, Yoko Cafe offers a diverse range of genres, including acoustic, pop, and indie. Relax with a drink in hand and enjoy the talented musicians serenading the crowd.
Nightclubs and Dance Floors
The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City wouldn’t be complete without its vibrant nightclubs and dance floors, pulsating with energy and offering an eclectic mix of music genres. Dance until the early hours of the morning to the latest beats spun by talented DJs or groove to live performances by renowned artists.
Lush Nightclub
Address: 2 Ly Tu Trong Street, District 1.
$-$$: Entrance fees range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND, and drink prices are moderate.
Lush Nightclub is a popular destination for party-goers seeking an unforgettable night out. With its impressive sound system, dazzling light shows, and energetic atmosphere, this club guarantees an exciting experience.
Apocalypse Now
Address: 2B Thi Sach Street, District 1.
$-$$: Entrance fees range from 150,000 to 200,000 VND, and drink prices are reasonable.
Apocalypse Now has been a fixture of Saigon’s nightlife for decades, offering an energetic and lively atmosphere. Dance the night away to a mix of international hits and local favourites, surrounded by a diverse crowd of locals and tourists.
Atmos Club
Address: 131 Nguyen Hue, District 1
$-$$: VND 200,000 – VND 500,000
Located in the heart of District 1, Atmos Club is a destination you should not miss when exploring Saigon’s nightlife. This multi-level club boasts a spacious dance floor and an impressive LED lighting system that sets the mood for an unforgettable night. The club is known for playing a great mix of EDM and top 40 hits that will keep you on the dance floor all night long. Atmos also regularly hosts well-known local and international DJs, further enhancing the club’s lively atmosphere.
Ellui Bar
$-$$: VND 200,000 – VND 600,000
It’s a popular nightclub with a rooftop terrace that offers stunning views of the city. The music is a mix of EDM, hip hop, and house, and the atmosphere is energetic and lively. The club is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, on Nguyen Hue Street. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a night out with friends or a romantic evening with your significant other.
The Lighthouse Saigon
$$-$$$: VND 500,000 – VND 1M+
It’s a rooftop club with a sophisticated vibe. The music is mostly electronic, and the crowd is a mix of locals and tourists. The views from the rooftop are incredible, and you can even see as far as the Mekong Delta on a clear night. The club is located on the 24th floor of the Caravelle Hotel, which is one of the most iconic hotels in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a unique and special night out.
The Observatory
$$-$$$: VND 500,000 – VND 1M+
It’s a nightclub with a unique setting. It’s located in the Bitexco Financial Tower, the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City. The views from the club are simply stunning, and the music is a mix of EDM, hip-hop, and house. The club is open from 10pm to 3am, and it’s a great place to go if you’re looking for a night out with a difference.
Heart Beat
$-$$$: VND 200,000 – VND 1M+
It’s a nightclub with a large dance floor and a lively atmosphere. The music is mostly EDM, and the crowd is young and energetic. Heart Beat is a great place to go if you’re looking for a party atmosphere. The club is located on Pham Ngu Lao Street, which is one of the most popular nightlife areas in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s open from 10pm to 4am, and it’s a great place to go if you’re looking to dance the night away.
Cultural Shows and Performances
Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Saigon by attending captivating shows and performances that showcase traditional Vietnamese art forms. From dance performances to theatrical shows, these cultural experiences offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s history and heritage.
AO Show at the Saigon Opera House
Address: 7 Cong Truong Lam Son, District 1.
$$-$$$: Ticket prices range from 300,000 to 1,500,000 VND, depending on the seating category
Witness the mesmerizing AO Show, a combination of acrobatics, dance, and theatrical storytelling that brings Vietnamese culture to life. Set in the beautiful Saigon Opera House, this performance is a must-see for those seeking an immersive cultural experience.
Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater
Address: 55B Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 1.
$-$$: Ticket prices range from 200,000 to 500,000 VND, depending on the seating category.
Experience the enchanting art of water puppetry, a traditional Vietnamese performance that tells captivating stories through intricate puppet movements on water. The Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater offers a magical and immersive show for all ages.
The Mist Show at the Saigon Opera House
Address: 7 Cong Truong Lam Son, District 1.
$$-$$$: Ticket prices range from 500,000 to 1,500,000 VND, depending on the seating category.
Immerse yourself in a fusion of traditional Vietnamese music, contemporary dance, and stunning visuals at The Mist Show. This multimedia performance showcases the beauty of Vietnamese culture through a dynamic and visually striking production.
Nightlife Areas in Ho Chi Minh City
- Bui Vien Street: Located in the heart of the backpacker district, Bui Vien Street is renowned for its lively atmosphere. This pedestrian-friendly area is packed with bars, restaurants, and street food stalls, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: Situated in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue Walking Street offers a more upscale nightlife experience. The beautifully lit promenade hosts a variety of entertainment options, including live music performances, art exhibitions, and cultural events.
- District 1: As the city’s central district, District 1 features numerous nightclubs and rooftop bars catering to diverse tastes. From upscale venues with panoramic views to underground clubs playing the latest electronic music, District 1 has it all.
- Thu Thiem: Located on the other side of the Saigon River, Thu Thiem is an emerging nightlife destination. With its modern skyline and waterfront bars, this area offers a unique experience, especially for those seeking a more contemporary setting.
- Saigon Opera House Area: Nestled near the iconic Saigon Opera House, this area boasts an enchanting ambiance. It features a mix of sophisticated rooftop lounges, live music venues, and stylish restaurants, making it a popular spot for locals and expatriates.
Nightlife: Hanoi vs Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) Nightlife: Get ready to experience the electrifying nightlife of Ho Chi Minh City! Saigon is all about high-energy vibes and non-stop excitement. The city offers an incredible mix of options that cater to every taste and mood. If you’re looking for a wild and buzzing scene, head straight to Bui Vien Street in the backpacker district. It’s an absolute hotspot filled with lively bars, mouthwatering street food, and people from all over the world. And if you’re up for some fancy fun, District 1 is where it’s at! You’ll find super cool rooftop bars and trendy clubs where the music is pumping and the energy is contagious. Saigon knows how to party, and its music scene is legendary, featuring the hottest beats and live performances that will keep you dancing until the sun comes up.
Hanoi Nightlife: Hanoi, the capital city, has a nightlife scene with its own unique charm. It’s a bit more laid-back and intimate, perfect for those looking to chill and soak in the local vibes. The heart of Hanoi’s nightlife is the Old Quarter, a maze of narrow streets packed with cozy bars and live music venues. Check out Ta Hien Street, aka “Beer Street,” where you can grab a table on the sidewalk, sip on some delicious local brews, and make new friends. Hanoi’s nightlife offers a taste of tradition too. You can catch captivating traditional music performances while feasting on mouthwatering local delicacies. It’s a chance to embrace the city’s rich cultural heritage in a relaxed and authentic setting.
So, whether you’re up for the energetic buzz of Saigon or the chill vibes of Hanoi, Vietnam has got you covered with an unforgettable nightlife scene that matches your youthful spirit. Get ready to create epic memories and let the good times roll!
Saigon’s nightlife offers a vibrant tapestry of experiences, where you can immerse yourself in the pulsating energy of the city. From the bustling night markets and street food delights to the rooftop bars with panoramic views, live music venues, nightclubs, and cultural performances, there is something for everyone. Use the addresses provided to navigate your way through the city’s diverse nightlife scene, and keep in mind the price ranges mentioned to plan your budget accordingly. So, get ready to dance the night away, savour delicious street food, and embrace the lively spirit of Saigon’s unforgettable nights.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions on the Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City
What is the legal drinking age in Saigon, Vietnam?
The legal drinking age in Vietnam, including Saigon (also known as Ho Chi Minh City), is 18 years old.
What time do most bars and clubs close in Saigon?
Saigon’s nightlife is vibrant and extends late into the night. Most bars close around 2-3 AM, while some clubs stay open until 4-5 AM.
Is it safe to walk around Saigon at night?
Generally, Saigon is safe to walk around at night, especially in popular districts like District 1 and District 3. However, as in any large city, it’s advised to be aware of your surroundings and avoid deserted areas.
What is the average cost of a beer in Saigon?
Local beers in Saigon can be found for as low as VND 10,000 – VND 20,000 ($0.4 – $0.8) in some places. More upscale venues will charge higher prices.
Are the nightlife venues in Saigon LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes, Saigon has a number of LGBTQ+-friendly venues and the city is generally quite inclusive.
What type of music can I expect at clubs in Saigon?
Most clubs in Saigon play a wide variety of music genres including EDM, house, pop, hip-hop, and rock. Some venues also feature live music performances.
Are credit cards accepted at nightlife venues in Saigon?
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted at most bars, clubs, and restaurants in Saigon. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller venues or street vendors.