Our Guide to Things To Do in HCMC at Night

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Ho Chi Minh City, also referred to as HCMC and formerly called Saigon, is a city that never really sleeps. By day, it bustles with traffic, commerce, and activity, but at night, the city transforms into a playground of lights, sounds, and experiences. Whether you're a tourist or a local, there's no shortage of things to do after the sun sets. From street food markets to chic rooftop bars, HCMC offers a diverse range of activities catering to all tastes. Check out some of Vespa A Go Go’s top things to do in HCMC at night!

Saigon - the city that never sleeps - there's always fun things to do at night
Saigon never really goes to sleep - there’s always something fun to do

Sip a cocktail in style at a rooftop bar

Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline is impressive, and one of the best ways to take it all in is by visiting one of the many rooftop bars scattered throughout the city. These establishments offer a stunning view of sunsets, and the city lights, creating a perfect backdrop for an evening out.

There are lots of unique rooftop bars in Saigon for you to try Social Club Saigon - tourists favorite spot for a night out in Saigon

Each offers a different atmosphere, but all provide a blend of luxurious ambiance, well-crafted cocktails, and panoramic views. Whether you're looking for a chic, high-energy atmosphere or a quiet place to relax and enjoy the scenery, HCMC’s rooftop bars offer an elevated nightlife experience—literally and figuratively.

Check out our list of the Top 5 Rooftop Bars in Saigon!

Did someone say night markets?

Arguably one of the most popular reasons that brings visitors to Vietnam is the desire to try the world famous cuisine. While the city's street food scene is bustling during the day, it truly comes alive at night. Street food vendors set up shop across various districts, serving everything from banh mi to pho and bun thit nuong.

You wouldn't want to miss the night markets coming to HCM City Ho Thi Ky night market is going to offer you a feast of various cuisines until late night

Xom Chieu Market in District 4 is known for its fresh seafood. These markets provide delicious, affordable food and an authentic glimpse into the local culture and way of life. Trying a bowl of hu tieu or grabbing a banh trang nuong while wandering the night markets is a perfect thing to do in HCMC at night.

Wandering the Saigon streets at night with Vespa A Go Go Vespa A Go Go will take you through these streets for a wonderful night in Saigon

If you find yourself a bit thirsty from all the exploring, keep your eyes peeled for pop-up street cocktail bars. While a relatively new concept, they have quickly gained popularity among people of all ages. Nothing like enjoying beautiful (and cheap!) crafted cocktails while taking in the bustling night markets.

Pro-tip! If meat and seafood aren’t your thing, check out our guide to veggie delights around the city!

Take a stroll along Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is another popular destination at night for people of all ages. It’s a much more relaxed environment compared to the hustle and bustle of Bui Vien Street, making it a great family friendly option. Located in District 1, it’s a broad and long street lined with shops, cafés, and restaurants, making it a pleasant spot for an evening stroll. You can enjoy live performances by street artists, from musicians to dancers, and even impromptu flash mobs.

Tourists go-to destination traveling to Saigon - the bustling Nguyen Hue walking street

Nguyen Hue Walking Street - a destination you don’t want to missing traveling to Sai Gon

During special occasions or holidays, Nguyen Hue Street is often decked out in lights and decorations, making it a must see to enjoy the holiday spirit. If you happen to visit Vietnam during Tet (Lunar New Year), the displays are a must see cultural experience!

See the A O Show!

Ask most people what they would recommend as a more refined thing to do at night in HCMC would be attending a performance at the Saigon Opera House. The French colonial building is a masterpiece of architecture, and the performances inside are equally impressive. The Opera House hosts a range of shows, from traditional Vietnamese music and dance performances to more modern productions.

A O show - a top-notch performance for culture and performance going to Vietnam
If you’re a fan of performances - learn about the culture through masterpiece of a show

A standout show is the "A O Show," which blends contemporary circus, acrobatics, and traditional Vietnamese music to tell stories about life in rural Vietnam. Performances at the Opera House provide a unique glimpse into Vietnamese culture and are a sophisticated way to spend an evening in Ho Chi Minh City.

Enjoy dinner cruising on the Saigon River

Cruising on the Saigon River is also a wonderful memory on your trip
Saigon never runs out of surprises - experience the city on water!

For a romantic and scenic evening, consider taking a dinner cruise along the Saigon River. These cruises typically offer a blend of Vietnamese and international cuisine, along with live entertainment such as traditional music or dance performances. As you sail along the river, you’ll get a unique view of the city skyline and its landmarks illuminated at night.

The river cruises offer a more peaceful alternative to the city’s bustling streets, making it an ideal option for couples or those looking for a quieter, more relaxed evening. Several companies offer dinner cruises, with boats departing from the Bach Dang Wharf in District 1.

Come ride with Vespa A Go Go at night!

On Vespa A Go Go Saigon night tour, you are guaranteed a wonderful experience On our tours, you will have an unforgettable night in Saigon!

Ho Chi Minh City offers a plethora of activities suited to every kind of night owl. Whether you're looking for lively nightlife, cultural performances, or simply want to sample the city’s incredible street food, there’s no shortage of things to do after dark. Come join our Dining Delights tour and we’ll show you the best things to do in HCMC at night!

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