Nightlife in Saigon: Best Bars, Clubs, and Evening Spots

Saigon nightlife is well-known for its diverse bar scene, ranging from casual street bars to upscale cocktail lounges. Here are some of the best bars you should consider:

1. The Alley Cocktail Bar & Kitchen
Address: 76 Hai Bà Trưng, District 1
Hours: 5 PM - 1 AM
Prices: Cocktails from 120,000 VND (~$5)
Description: Known for handcrafted cocktails and a cozy atmosphere, The Alley is a favorite among locals and tourists.

2. Broma Not a Bar
Address: 41 Nguyễn Huệ, District 1
Hours: 5 PM - 2 AM
Prices: Beer from 50,000 VND (~$2), cocktails 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
Description: A rooftop bar with open-air seating overlooking the city’s central walking street.

3. Pasteur Street Brewing Company
Address: 144 Pasteur, District 1
Hours: 4 PM - Midnight
Prices: Craft beers from 70,000 VND (~$3)
Description: Vietnam’s first craft brewery, offering a variety of locally brewed beers in a laid-back setting.

For more on local drinks, visit Saigon Beer Scene.

If dancing is your priority, Saigon nightlife has several clubs that run late into the night:

1. Lush Nightclub
Address: 2C Lê Lợi, District 1
Hours: 10 PM - 3 AM
Entry: 200,000 VND (~$8.50) with one drink included
Description: Popular with both expats and locals, Lush features electronic and hip-hop music with a large dance floor.

2. Envy Club
Address: 87 Đồng Khởi, District 1
Hours: 9 PM - 3 AM
Entry: 150,000 VND (~$6.50)
Description: Stylish club with live DJ sets, VIP areas, and a modern sound system.

3. Apocalypse Now
Address: 2B Lê Duẩn, District 1
Hours: 9 PM - 3 AM
Entry: Usually free before 11 PM, 100,000 VND (~$4.30) after
Description: One of the longest-running nightclubs in Saigon, known for its energetic crowd and mixed music styles.

Tip: Dress codes vary; smart casual is recommended. Most clubs enforce age limits of 18 or 21 years.

Not all Saigon nightlife is about loud music and dancing. For those who prefer a quieter evening, these spots provide a calm atmosphere:

1. Chill Skybar
Address: 26 Bis Lê Thánh Tôn, District 1
Hours: 5 PM - 2 AM
Prices: Cocktails from 200,000 VND (~$8.50)
Description: Rooftop bar with panoramic views of the Saigon skyline, ideal for unwinding after a busy day.

2. The Deck Saigon
Address: 38 Nguyễn Ư Dĩ, Thảo Điền, District 2
Hours: 11 AM - 11 PM
Prices: Main dishes from 250,000 VND (~$10)
Description: Riverside restaurant and bar with a peaceful setting, suitable for dinner and evening drinks.

3. Acoustic Bar
Address: 41 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, District 1
Hours: 7 PM - Midnight
Prices: Beers from 50,000 VND (~$2)
Description: Live acoustic music makes this a great place to relax with friends.

Tip: Weekdays tend to be less crowded; weekends can get busy especially at rooftop bars.

Understanding local customs and safety can help you enjoy Saigon nightlife without issues:

1. Identification: Always carry a valid ID or passport; some clubs require it at the entrance.

2. Bargaining: Not common in bars and clubs, but taxis and street vendors may negotiate prices.

3. Taxis & Transport: Use reputable taxi companies like Vinasun or Grab app for rides home. Avoid unlicensed taxis.

4. Dress code: Many clubs and upscale bars require neat attire; avoid shorts and flip-flops.

5. Drinking laws: The legal drinking age is 18. Public drunkenness is frowned upon.

6. Payment: Most places accept cash (VND). Credit cards are accepted in many bars and clubs but carry some cash.

For more travel tips, see our Saigon Travel Advice.

Saigon nightlife is active year-round, but some months and days are better for going out:

1. Peak Season: December to April offers cooler weather and many events.

2. Weekends: Fridays and Saturdays are the busiest nights with live music, DJ sets, and larger crowds.

3. Happy Hours: Most bars have happy hours from 5 PM to 8 PM, with drinks at half price.

4. Special Events: Look out for holiday celebrations such as Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) when many venues host parties.

Note: Some clubs close around 3 AM due to city regulations, so plan accordingly.