ä¸æ–‡ (香港)As the most populous city in Southern Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife is very vibrant, no matter what you are looking for! This guide would be focused on things that are very much on the legal side, but that still have some interesting things to do~
I am very much a cocktail snob, so there will be a separate post on bars in Ho Chi Minh City (coming soon)
Table of Contents
Ho Chi Minh City Nightlife Overview
There are quite a few options depending on what you are looking for, here are some just to let you know what you are in for!
- Sophisticated cocktail bars, which are my favourite
- Fun bars and clubs for those who enjoy the party scene
- Ho Chi Min City walking street is a must-see
- River cruise
- E-gaming and other indoor options
Bui Vien Street: the Ho Chi Minh City Walking Street
Bui Vien Street is the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s nightlife, with neon lights, signs, street vendors, clubs, and bars. Is it safe? Yes. But is it a bit seedy? Absolutely.
While it’s not as risque as Cowboy Street in Bangkok, it is in itself very fun to walk through if you want to just absorb the atmosphere and people-watch. There are plenty of budget friendly places where you can grab a beer and a lot of street food carts. Many promoters also stand on the side of the street to invite you into their clubs and bars.
We didn’t go into any clubs and bars, and I highly recommend for you to change the google ratings and reviews of any places you go into and be vigilant about your belongings!
And make sure to confirm and check your receipt and charges. Here are a few places that are more reputable for you to check out along the walking street:
Waikiki Bar & Restaurant
Waikiki Bar and Restaurant is located on the junction of Bui Vien and Do Quang Street towards the western end of the walking street. It’s decorated with greenery and lanterns with a vibrant tropical vibe that sets it apart from the other bars and clubs on the street.
They have several floors and the second floor has an open air set up that makes it perfect for people watching and absorbing the atmosphere. But if you want live music and party vibes, you can stay on the first floor, If you are going early, they have a happy hour from 5-7pm.
Opening times: open 24 hours
Go2 Wine Bar Saigon
Go2 Bar is a popular wine destination for expats and travelers, known for its lively atmosphere and great music. The bar features a mix of cocktails, beers, and local drinks, making it a favorite choice for those looking to party.
They also have a street-front section where you can just sit and watch the crowd. The friendly staff and vibrant crowd contribute to its fun vibe.
Opening times: 10:30 – 4:00 (yes, almost 24 hours!)
River Cruise in Ho Chi Minh City
If you’re looking for a fuss-free scenic dining experience in Ho Chi Minh City, the Indochina Queen Dinner Cruise is an interesting option. This cruise departs from a pier in D4 (but not a long drive from the city center).
The cruise departs at 6:30 PM and disembarks around 9 PM. The boat remains stationary for about 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing guests to enjoy the food.
The cruise heads towards Ba Son Bridge before turning back. While the views are initially average, it provides a decent backdrop for photos and videos. The overall style of the boat has an old-school vibe, and most tourists are domestic or family.
It primarily offers a buffet, we opted for the set dinner. One standout dish was the delicious fried fish in rice paper rolls, which was a highlight of the meal. However, the other food options were fairly average.
While it’s not something that I would do again, it is a fun option particularly for those who are with family.
Price: $20 – $25 (approximately 160-200 HKD)
Time + Duration: Departing at 6:30 PM, disembarking around 9 PM; stationary for 1 to 1.5 hours
Where to dine: Recommended on the 2nd or 3rd floor for the best views – but you can move around the boat freely
Club V E-Gaming
If clubbing isn’t your scene, there are actually a few gambling parlours and clubs around Ho Chi Minh City. Club V E-Gaming is in the basement of Pullman Saigon Center where I’ve stayed. It’s also very close to the walking street, making it a good option for an escape from the crowd or if it rains.
You can see my full review here if you are not sure what to expect when visiting an e-gaming place. No, it’s not an internet cafe where you compete electronically. It’s a gambling place where everything is strictly electronic, and yes, it is legal in Vietnam. Although it’s not legal for you if you have a Vietnamese passport.
Note: smoking inside is allowed, so beware if you are sensitive to smoke. But they do offer free water and coffee to all members, and it’s free to sign up.
