The nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City varies with the distinct parts of the city. A visit to District 1 has a variety of options like smooth jazz bands, high-rolling casinos and rooftop bars. But, for those that explore District 3, which is a few kilometres to the west, there is the more backpacker scene with loud street bars, cheap food and a great vibe.
Here are some of the best nightlife options in Ho Chi Minh City that are worth including on the travel itinerary organized by your Vietnam travel company:
Rooftop bars
Ho Chi Minh City has a varied and impressive collection of rooftop bars that are well worth a visit on the Vietnam holiday. Whether it is the modern and chic style of the Chill Skybar or the colonial charm of the Saigon Saigon Bar, there is certain to be a rooftop establishment that matches the preferred mood and taste. Plus, the bars give striking views of the local city into the early hours.
Live Music Bars
Ho Chi Minh City is a great destination for live music bars and can leave travellers spoilt for choice. From heavy rock to smooth jazz to most other types in between, there is likely to be a club or bar that matches the preferred music scene. The live music gigs are well spaced throughout the city with the most choice in the popular areas of District 1 and 3.
Casinos
Playing at a casino is possible at a few top hotels, such as the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers and Caravelle Hotel. This gives the tourists a chance to get lucky on the slot machines, play some mah-jong, or hit the roulette table. Even though the casinos aren’t at a scale similar to Las Vegas and some games like hold ‘em poker are machine only, it is still a great way to enjoy a couple of hours.
Pham Ngu Lao
A visit to Pham Ngu Lao makes for a legendary destination for the travellers interested in the lively street drinking. It is heavily visited by the backpackers and has a general mix of local Vietnamese and foreigners that drink and chat the night away. Plus, the local District 3 area has plenty of low-cost restaurants and a few nightclubs for those interested in hitting the dance floor.
Nightclubs
Ho Chi Minh City has a few premier nightlife hotspots including the Lush Nightclub and Apocalypse Now. Lush Nightclub is great for the young and beautiful with its industrial chic styled interior with ample seating and dancing space. The music varies from mainstream party pop to hip hop and house. A legendary nightclub in District 1 is Apocalypse Now which attracts the local Vietnamese, expats and backpackers looking to mingle. It isn’t the most sophisticated club, but great for chilling or dancing with western pop tunes and cheap drinks promotions.
Cruise down the Saigon River
A leisurely cruise down the Saigon River is a perfect way to spend the night in Ho Chi Minh City. A trip on the Bonsai Dinner Cruise can easily combine a peaceful river cruise with a delight feast of local Vietnamese and western favourites. A Vietnam travel agent can organize this cruise for travellers interested in a romantic night on the river that includes traditional Vietnamese dance, a live jazz performance and views of Ho Chi Minh City at night.