Bui Vien Walking Street: Uncover Saigon’s Nightlife Bar Hotspot

Where is Bui Vien Walking Street?

Bui Vien Walking Street is located in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, at the center of the city’s backpacker area. The street is about 850 meters long, running from Nguyen Thai Hoc Street to Cong Quynh Street. It is part of the Pham Ngu Lao neighborhood, known for its lively nightlife, budget accommodations, and diverse dining options.

Bui Vien isn’t the only busy street in the area. Nearby, De Tham, Pham Ngu Lao, and Cong Quynh Streets are also bustling with restaurants, bars, and shops. This creates an area worth hours of exploring on foot with a lot to do and see. During the day, visitors can explore attractions in District 1 before heading to Bui Vien for a night out.

Bui Vien Walking Street is located at the center of the city’s backpacker area

Best time to visit Bui Vien Walking Street

The best time to visit Bui Vien Walking Street is, definitely, when the sun has set and the night begins. This is because, during the day, the street appears to be like any other street in Saigon, with motorbikes and cars allowed to pass through. Shops, cafes, and restaurants are open for business, yet not a lot of people turn up.

On weekends after 7 PM, this is when the fun begins. Bui Vien turns into a walking street only for pedestrians. The whole area turns into a hub of bars, street performances, and food stalls. The music turns up, and crowds of visitors begin to gather, both locals and foreigners. This makes Bui Vien one of the most popular nightlife spots in Saigon.

View from a rooftop bar on Bui Vien Walking Street. Source: Flicker

5 Things to do on Bui Vien Walking Street

Bui Vien is where the night comes alive! Eat, drink, dance, chill—whatever your vibe, there’s always something wild to do. Here are just a few:

1. Sip on a beer or cocktail

Bui Vien Walking Street is famous for its wide range of drinks. Beers, cocktails, shots, non-alcoholics, you name it, they have it. Visitors can enjoy local beers like Saigon Special or 333, as well as imported options like Heineken and Tiger. Cocktails are also popular, with classic choices like mojitos, margaritas, and whiskey-based drinks.

A local beer typically costs 30,000–50,000 VND ($1.20–$2), while cocktails range from 80,000–150,000 VND ($3–$6). Many bars offer happy hour deals. Street vendors sell cheap drinks for those who prefer to drink outdoors. Most visitors sit on the street for the lively vibe, while others prefer rooftops for views or indoors for a quieter experience.

Guests enjoy beers while chatting. Source: Flicker

2. Try Vietnamese street food

Bui Vien Walking Street is a great place not only for the boozers but also for eaters, whether at food stalls or restaurants. Popular dining options on Bui Vien include BBQ, grilled skewers, seafood, and snacks like Goi Cuon (fresh spring rolls) or Bap Xao (stir-fried corn). Many vendors set up stalls along the street, serving fresh, hot dishes.

A light snack typically costs 40,000–100,000 VND ($1.50–$4), while a full meal with savory dishes costs 150,000–250,000 VND ($5.8–$9.79). Some may dine before arriving at Bui Vien, but in the lively atmosphere, grabbing a small snack as the night goes on is always a great choice. There are plenty of options to choose from.

There are many dining options along Bui Vien. Source: Flicker

3. Enjoy live music & performances at Bui Vien Street

Live music and street performances bring Bui Vien Walking Street to life at night. Many bars feature live bands, acoustic sets, and DJs, playing everything from Vietnamese pop to rock, EDM, and hip-hop. On the street, you’ll often see fire dancers, street musicians, and breakdancers performing for crowds. Be ready to get rowdy.

The mix of music styles and performances makes Bui Vien a great spot for all kinds of visitors, whether you enjoy dancing in a club or listening to live acoustic music. For a more energetic experience, check out the nightclubs and rooftop bars, while those looking for a relaxed vibe can enjoy live music in smaller venues.

Live music and street performances bring Bui Vien to life at night. Source: Flicker

4. Relax with a massage

After hours of walking and exploring Bui Vien Street, a massage is a great way to unwind. Bui Vien is lined with massage parlors offering foot, body, and herbal massages at reasonable prices. A 40-minute foot massage typically costs 150,000–220,000 VND ($5.8–$8.6), while a full-body massage costs 350,000–420,000 VND ($13.7–$16.45).

Massage services are popular among travelers, backpackers, and those looking to relax before continuing their night out. Many places also offer hot stone therapy and traditional herbal massages, which are ideal for relieving stress and fatigue. Manicure and pedicure are also available, perfect for those ladies wanting a quick beauty touch-up.

After hours of walking, a massage is a great way to unwind. Source: Flicker

5. Shop for souvenirs

There are a variety of souvenirs and gifts on display here and there along Bui Vien, perfect for travelers looking to take home a piece of Vietnam. Popular items include handmade crafts, lacquerware, silk scarves, and traditional conical hats (Non La). You’ll also find fun T-shirts, keychains, and postcards featuring Saigon’s iconic landmarks.

Prices vary, but small souvenirs can cost as little as 20,000–50,000 VND ($0.80–$2), while higher-quality items like lacquerware and silk scarves can range from 200,000–500,000 VND ($7.8–$20). Many shops allow bargaining. It’s best to buy souvenirs later when visiting Bui Vien, so you don’t have to carry them around.

Lacquerware makes a great souvenir. Source: Flicker

5 Best bars on Bui Vien Walking Street

Looking for the best bars on Bui Vien Street? From chill rooftop spots to wild party hubs in the busiest quarter, here’s where the nightlife truly shines.

1. The View Rooftop Bar

Perched above the bustling Bui Vien, The View Rooftop Bar offers a relaxed yet lively escape with stunning city views. Whether you’re watching the sunset or enjoying the sparkling skyline at night, this spot is perfect for unwinding. The cocktails are creative, well-crafted, and reasonably priced. The friendly staff and upbeat yet chill atmosphere add to the experience. With decent lantern decorations, spacious seating, and good music, The View Rooftop Bar is a great place to enjoy drinks and food for spouses and couples. If you’re visiting Bui Vien, this rooftop bar is a must-visit.

• Address: On the 9th floor of Duc Vuong Hotel, 195 Bui Vien
• Vibe: Relaxed, intimate
• Price: 100.000–200.000 VND ($3.9–$7.8)/person
• Opening hours: 07:00–02:00 everyday

Guests love the charming heart-shaped lanterns. Source: The View Rooftop Bar

2. Le’Fê Rooftop Bar

Only a few steps from The View, Le’Fê is another hidden rooftop bar offering a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. With stunning sunset views, it’s perfect for those looking for a quiet corner at the end of the day. The bar is set up and decorated in a reggae style with vibrant Rastafarian colors (red, green, and gold), reggae music posters (you see Bob Marley?), wooden furnishings, and a laid-back, tropical vibe. The bartenders craft excellent cocktails, and the drink menu is diverse, featuring both local and Western options. Highly recommended for groups of friends and colleagues.

• Address: 198 Bui Vien
• Vibe: Relaxed, tropical
• Price: 100.000–200.000 VND ($3.9–$7.8)/person
• Opening hours: 17:00–01:00 everyday

Le’Fê is set up and decorated in a reggae style. Source: Le’Fê Rooftop Bar

3. Boosh Rooftop

Boosh Rooftop brings a punk-inspired vibe to Bui Vien with graffiti walls, neon lights, and energetic music. It’s the perfect spot for a fun night out, offering games like beer pong, foosball, pool, and Jenga. The bar has a lower air-conditioned level and an open-air rooftop. Drinks are mid-range priced, featuring a selection of craft beers. Every weekend, a DJ spins hip-hop beats, keeping the energy high. After 11:30 PM, the place gets packed, often clearing tables to make room for the crowd. Whether for games, drinks, or cool photos, Boosh Rooftop is a must-visit for partygoers.

• Address: 6 Bui Vien
• Vibe: Energetic, punk
• Price: 100.000–200.000 VND ($3.9–$7.8)/person
• Opening hours: 18:00–02:00 everyday

Boosh has graffiti walls, neon lights, and energetic music. Source: Boosh Rooftop

4. Mooneys Saigon

Mooneys Saigon is a cozy Irish bar tucked away in a small alley near Bui Vien. Unlike the bustling rooftop bars, this laid-back spot offers an intimate setting with great drinks at reasonable prices. Guinness lovers will appreciate the quality, and the atmosphere is made even better by incredible live music. The bar attracts musicians from all over the world, creating acoustic jam sessions with guitars, harmonicas, and flutes. Both locals and expats come together here, making it a true community hub. Liam, the friendly English owner, and his welcoming staff ensure a great time for all.

• Address: Hem 40 Bui Vien
• Vibe: Relaxed, Irish
• Price: 100.000–200.000 VND ($3.9–$7.8)/person
• Opening hours: 18:00–02:00 everyday

Mooneys Saigon is a cozy Irish bar hidden in an alley. Source: Mooneys Saigon

5. LOST IN SAIGON

LOST IN SAIGON is a lively bar known for its loud and energetic Filipino bands. The place stands out with its unique industrial-style décor—think exposed gray walls, metal fixtures, and raw, urban vibes. Neon lights flood the space, adding to the high-energy atmosphere. The bar is spacious, offering seating at the center and corners, plus a billiard table. A massive projector screen plays live sports, perfect for fans. Drinks and food cost about 30% more than nearby spots, but the entertainment makes up for it. Portions are smaller, so it’s best for light snacks rather than a full meal.

• Address: 60–62 Bui Vien
• Vibe: Energetic, industrial
• Price: 150.000–250.000 VND ($5.9–$9.8)/person
• Opening hours: 16:00–04:00

The bar is known for its loud and energetic Filipino bands. Source: LOST IN SAIGON

Hotels near Bui Vien Walking Street

Hotels near Bui Vien Walking Street offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly stays to more upscale options. Whether you prefer a hotel right on the street or a quieter spot nearby, there are plenty of choices. Prices range from 400.000–2.000.000 VND ($15 to $80) per night, depending on amenities and services.

If you’re planning a late night out, staying close to Bui Vien is a smart choice—just a short walk back after a night of fun. Some great options include Beautiful Saigon Hotel, Prague, C Central, Saigon Europe, and Crowne Bui Vien. These hotels provide comfort and convenience, with features like pools, modern rooms, and friendly service.

If you’re planning a late night out, stay close to Bui Vien. Source: Flicker

Attractions near Bui Vien Walking Street

Thanks to its central location, Bui Vien Walking Street is close to many of Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions, making it easy for visitors to explore the city before diving into the nightlife. During the day, you can visit Ben Thanh Market, a bustling marketplace perfect for shopping and tasting local street food. A short ride away, the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Central Post Office showcase French colonial architecture, great for photos.

Notre-Dame Cathedral showcases French colonial architecture. Source: Flicker

Independence Palace stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s triumph, unity, and sovereignty, while the War Remnants Museum provides a deeper understanding of the country’s poignant past. In the late afternoon, stroll down Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where you can people-watch, enjoy street performances, or admire the city’s skyline. With everything nearby, you can easily check off all these attractions before night falls!

Ben Thanh Market is for shopping and tasting local street food. Source: Flicker

Bui Vien Walking Street is the heart of Saigon’s nightlife. Whether you’re here to party, enjoy a drink with friends, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, it’s a must-visit spot for an unforgettable night in Ho Chi Minh City.

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