Bui Vien Walking Street, often dubbed “Bui Vien Western Street”, has long been famous as a sleepless nightlife hub, beloved by Saigon’s youth and international visitors alike. If you ever visit Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss the chance to explore this vibrant street, where you can immerse yourself in an energetic atmosphere filled with food, drinks, music, and fun that lasts till dawn.
The Origin of the Name “Bui Vien Western Street”
If Hanoi has Ta Hien Street, then Saigon has its equally bustling counterpart—Bui Vien Street. The name “Western Street” (Phố Tây) comes from the large number of foreign tourists, particularly from Europe and the Americas, who have flocked here over the years to explore and enjoy the city’s nightlife.
As a result, Bui Vien Street has developed into a culturally rich destination, known for its diverse cuisine, multicultural atmosphere, and wide range of entertainment options that reflect both local charm and international flair.
Bui Vien walking street
Today, the streets and alleys around Bui Vien have become a backpacker district, filled with restaurants, cafes, hotels, hostels, bars and pubs.
In the weekend, only in the evening, the streets ban all motorised traffic and it turns into Bui Vien walking street. And without the traffic, the atmosphere is at its best. But even during weekdays at night, the streets are so busy, that motorbikes and cars are always stuck in the crowd. The pavement is used to extent the restaurants and bars and people use the street to walk. Taxi’s often refuse driving in the street at night to drop off quest.
A visit to Bui Vien walking street is recommended, even if you don’t like the craziness and parties.
Nightlife in Bui Vien street
On the street it is always busy in the evening with other travelers, locals and artists who perform with fire, dance and sing.
At the start of the evening you can choose to sit on the side of the road on a plastic chair with a beer in one hand and in the other hand eat food from a street food stall.
Later in the evening you can visit one of the bars. Bars and pubs are scattered throughout the backpacker districts yet those on Bui Vien are the most attractive for most.
Best bars and clubs
- Whiskey & Wares: For backpackers with style to enjoy Saigon’s lively artisan beer scene or some of the liqueurs.
- Donkey Bar: A three-story bar with an Egyptian theme. There is a nice atmosphere with balconies overlooking Bui Vien Street.
- Boheme Pub: In a small alley, but the pub always overcharges every night, and you have to reserve your seats on the weekend. Although the pub is not large, the music is excellent.
- Sahara Beer Club: This beer club has a beer garden and a variety of drinks, with DJ performances every night.
Rooftop bars
- The View: A drink on the roof of Duc Vuong Hotel, known as the most affordable rooftop bar, is a must if you want to sit down a bit more quietly with a view of the skyline.
Tips
- Hide your valuables. Everyday people lose cameras, telephones, etc.
- The men who sell drugs on the corners are all notorious scammers.
- There is undercover police, so be at least a bit discreet.
- Discuss prices in advance.
- Marijuana is illegal, but people smoke it openly.
The backpacker area also has a somewhat hidden red light district, with its numerous hostess bars and massage salons with “extra” services. Just take a walk down the street and if you see an increasing number of beautiful ladies smiling at you while you walk, chances are that you are in “that area”.
