A Real Guide to Nightlife In Saigon

Here’s everything you need to know for an unforgettable night out in Ho Chi Minh City. Check out the real, updated guide to nightlife in Saigon.

I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with the nightlife in Saigon. My first visit to Ho Chi Minh City left me in awe, though the nighttime entertainment was underwhelming. Most places I’d read about online were either empty or completely out of business. It became apparent that most nightlife guides were either written long before COVID-19 and no longer updated or blatantly wrong. Several guides recommend visiting Hard Rock Cafe, for example, which has permanently shut its doors in 2021.

To clarify, this blog post will cover conventional nightlife activities—bars, clubs, breweries, live music spots, and so on. While Saigon has loads of cultural nighttime attractions that don’t involve blasting music or crazy parties (diverse night markets, local late-night restaurants), this guide focuses on these.

Important Note– nightlife venues in Saigon frequently shut down, change locations, and re-brand. This is especially true after Covid. Be sure to verify whether the spot you’re about to visit is still in business by double-checking their socials!

Beer Gardens & Vietnamese Style Clubs In Saigon- Party Like A Local

What better way to immerse yourself in a country’s culture than to partake in local nightlife activities? Beer Gardens have to be one of the most popular venues in all of Vietnam. You’ll see them all around major cities. They serve as hip hangouts and are ideal to grab dinner and a few beers with friends to kick off your night. Beer gardens are a great way to experience the local nightlife in Saigon, here are some of my favorites:

The Gangs Central- Beer Garden

Location: 87 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

The Gangs Central is one of the most popular beer gardens in Saigon. This spot is famous for its lively vibe- it’s packed pretty much every day of the week. There are two floors with indoor and outdoor seating. Guests can choose from a selection of delicious food and drinks.

The Gangs Central is a great place to enjoy a club-like atmosphere combined with the comfort of a restaurant. Expect loud music, people dancing on tables, and loads of fun! The Gangs operate in 5 locations in Saigon.

Warning Zone Garden

Location: Multiple locations (check website)

Warning Zone Garden features multiple locations around Saigon, though the one at 33 Nguyễn Đình Chiểu in D1 is the most iconic. Similar to The Gangs, you can expect Warning Zone to be busy 7 days a week, hence it’s best to book a table in advance.

Warning Zone Garden 33 hosts live music and performances regularly.

X-Pose Beer Club & Buffet

Location: 583 Đ. Sư Vạn Hạnh, Phường 12, Quận 10

X-Pose is tucked away in D10, out of the way of the other attractions. As a result, it’s a spot mostly frequented by locals rather than tourists.

This Saigon beer club is known for buffet-style dining and the free flow of beer. Don’t expect your average buffet experience here- the laser lights, DJ and dancers transform this venue into a nightclub buffet. Only in Vietnam!

POCPOC Garden

Location: 79a Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường 6, Quận 3

POCPOC is one of the top local clubs in Saigon. In fact, Pocpoc earned a #81 spot in DJ Mag’s top 100 nightclubs in 2024- and the only venue in Ho Chi Minh City to have made the list!

A world-class production, a fantastic sound system, and impressive lighting make this nightclub one of the best in Saigon. Pocpoc Garden books international DJs quite frequently, so be sure to check their socials for upcoming events.

Canalis Club

Location: 264 Đ. Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Phường 8, Quận 3

There seems to be a misconception about Canalis. While this is a pretty great club, Canalis is most certainly a Vietnamese-style club.

There is no dance floor (like most nightclubs in Vietnam) and a very heavy bottle service culture. If you come here, you’re expected to get a table and open a bottle, rather than hanging out on the (non-existent) dancefloor or by the bar.

You can have a great night at Canalis, as long as you know what you’re in for. Expect impressive lighting and laser, dancers and shows, and blasting EDM music.

Clubs and Bars With A Dancefloor in Saigon

Many tourists are appalled by the nightclub culture in Vietnam, or South East Asia in general. It is indeed very different than what you may find in most European and American countries. Most nightclubs in Vietnam, especially in smaller towns, don’t have any dance floor. Instead, the entire space is reserved for bottle service. Clubgoers also typically hang out within their own party, as opposed to going to other tables to mingle with new people.

While that’s how the majority of the clubs look, there are some exceptions. These are some of the best dance clubs in Saigon, as well as bars with dance floors. In general, venues where you can dance without tripping over tables or having to drop millions on bottles!

The Observatory

Location: 85 Đ. Cách Mạng Tháng 8, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1

The Observatory is perhaps the best electronic dance club in town. It is one of Saigon’s go-to spots for techno or electronic music in general. You’ll find two stages inside. The indoor stage is a dark, cozy dancefloor similar to what you’d find in Berlin—including a pretty brutal sound system and heavy electronic beats. The second outdoor stage is more laid-back and opens up to a cool view of the city.

Note that the prices here are significantly higher than what you may find in local bars, there’s also an entrance fee on most nights. On the other hand, you’re very welcome to come in and enjoy the music with minimal spending within the club!

Be sure to visit on a weekend night, as this club is pretty empty during weeknights.

The Lighthouse

Location: 187 Đ. Đề Thám, Phường Phạm Ngũ Lão, Quận 1

The Lighthouse has finally reopened in 2024 in a new location right off of Bui Vien Walking Street. Similar to The Observatory, The Lighthouse focuses on quality electronic music in an intimate setting. There’s a dark dance floor where DJs pump proper techno, as well as a chill bar area ideal for just hanging out.

Arcan

Location: 29/2H Điện Biên Phủ, Phường 17, Bình Thạnh

Arcan is the closest you can get to a Berlin-style techno nightclub in Saigon. This is by far my favorite dance club in Ho Chi Minh City. They regularly book fantastic DJs and host all sorts of events for electronic music lovers- gabber, hard techno, trance, and everything in between.

There is an entrance fee—usually around 200k VND per person. Inside, there is no bottle service—just a good old dancefloor and amazing techno music! It’s also open late, with parties typically lasting until 5 AM.

The Laundry Club

Location: 84 Ngô Đức Kế, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

The Laundry Club is one of the latest additions to the nightlife in Saigon. This Ho Chi Minh City dance club stands out with its diverse music. Unlike some of the previously mentioned spots, The Laundry Club doesn’t strictly focus on electronic music, so it’s a great pick for those who enjoy other types of club music.

As this is a relatively new club, it’s only open on weekend nights. However, depending on the day, it can be full, so it’s worth giving it a shot!

Bar Lush

Location: 2 Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

Bar Lush isn’t a dance club in its own right, though there is a small space to dance near the round bar. Bar Lush is a pretty famous nightclub in Saigon and a prime location for after-parties. This late-night spot is open 6 nights a week (closed Mondays) and can get very full around 2 AM, especially on weekend nights. The crowd is a mix of locals and tourists.

There’s a VIP section, but guests are also welcome to hang out by the bar without committing to expensive bottles.

Apocalypse Now

Location: 2f Thi Sách, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

Apocalypse Now is a very well-known name among older nightlife lovers in Ho Chi Minh City. The original location was shut down after COVID-19, though the bar has since reopened in a new spot not far from Nguyễn Huệ Street.

This Saigon bar features some space to dance right in the middle of the venue. This is a pretty cool spot to visit, though it has not really returned to its former glory. At least not yet. Apocalypse Now also hosts various events throughout the week, so be sure to check their socials.

Cocktails- Hidden Bars, Speakeasy Bars in Saigon

Saigon has plenty of hidden bars and cool speakeasies scattered around the city. These venues are much more intimate and quieter than regular bars, making them perfect for a date or a chill hangout.

Climb- Hidden Cocktail Bar

Location: 15 Phan Văn Đạt, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

This bar is home to some of the best cocktails in Saigon. Tucked away not far from the heart of D1, Climb is most certainly worth finding. Sip on the finest cocktails while taking in the unique vibe of this trendy bar.

BB Coffee Shisha Lounge

Location: 210A Nguyễn Khắc Nhu, P, Quận 1

Looking for good shisha in Saigon? BB Coffee Shisha Lounge has got you covered. This is a very cozy shisha bar just a stone’s throw away from the Bui Vien walking street. This spot is by far the best you can get for high-quality hookah. Being a pretty serious shisha enthusiast I’d say this is one of the best shisha bars in all of South East Asia.

The shisha is always prepared to perfection- using the best tobacco and served on impressive hookahs for the best experience. The bar offers a wide selection of great drinks, and the chatty owner will make sure you’re having a great time!

Souru Hidden Shisha Bar

Location: Chung cư, 60 Nguyễn Trãi, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1

Souru is another great shisha bar. It’s just as good as BB Coffee Lounge, all for a simple reason- the same fantastic owner runs it. You can be sure the shisha will be prepared perfectly, complete with tasty drinks for an ideal night out.

Le Café des Stagiaires

Location: 10 Đường số 54, Thảo Điền, Thủ Đức

Le Café des Stagiaires is home to one of the best views of the city. This riverside bar opens up to fantastic views of the Sai Gon River and the Landmark 81 Tower.

This is one of those bars in Saigon that caters primarily to foreigners. It has a great atmosphere and a chill vibe. The bar regularly hosts DJ nights and a variety of cool events. Check its social media for the latest ones.

RetroSaigon

Location: 85/6 Phạm Viết Chánh, Phường 19, Bình Thạnh

Nightlife in Saigon would not be complete without a great spot for craft beers. RetroSaigon is one of the top picks for this. Guests can choose from a wide selection of various beers and then enjoy them in a unique setting with cool decor. You’ll also find board games, a pool table, and even an outdoor area with a small pond.

Heart of Darkness Craft Brewery

Location: 31D Lý Tự Trọng, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

Heart of Darkness is a real staple when it comes to nightlife in Saigon. This Craft Brewery is the go-to for beers and bites in Ho Chi Minh City. A wide selection of craft beers, fantastic burgers, and live music performances make Heart of Darkness a top pick in town. It’s very tourist-oriented and a popular hangout among expats and international visitors in Saigon.

Live Music in Saigon

Live music venues are not easy to find, but once you visit one of them you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable night out! These are some of the top picks for live music in Saigon.

Acoustic Bar

Location: 6E Ngô Thời Nhiệm, Phường Võ Thị Sáu, Quận 3

Acoustic Bar is one of the busiest live music bars in town. This is an absolute must-visit for anyone planning an unforgettable night out in Saigon. Acoustic Bar regularly hosts bands and acts from both Vietnam and abroad. This results in a fantastic, diverse selection of music.

Be sure to get here early. The live music performances typically start around 9 PM, and all the front-row seats will be filled by then.

Yoko Cafe Saigon

Location: 22A Nguyễn Thị Diệu, Phường 6, Quận 3

Yoko Cafe is a fantastic addition to the nightlife of Saigon which is under the radar. The bands here will play a variety of music, ranging from local Vietnamese songs to popular hits. Yoko Cafe primarily attracts a younger crowd, resulting in a very laid-back vibe. The cover charge is affordable, though the drink prices are definitely relatively higher.

Bãi Đáp Pub

Location: 173 Hai Bà Trưng, Phường 6, Quận 3

Bãi Đáp Pub is one of the best local music venues in town, ideal for immersing yourself in Saigon’s nightlife. It’s located within Warning Zone 173, one of the previously mentioned beer gardens.

Bãi Đáp Pub focuses on showcasing local talent, and most of the bands perform Vietnamese songs. The music starts around 9 PM and goes on until roughly midnight, with multiple bands and a DJ rotating through the night.

Broma Not A Bar

Location: 41 Nguyễn Huệ, Bến Nghé, Quận 1

Broma is a well-known bar among the international community in town and a real staple of nightlife in Saigon. This rooftop bar is right off the bustling Nguyễn Huệ promenade, with panoramic views of D1.

The bands that come here vary greatly. On one of my first visits here, there was even a Mexican mariachi band! Talk about a unique night out. They also have a selection of craft beers and some decent bites.

In addition, Broma Not A Bar also has a small dance club at the same location. It’s one of the few spots in Saigon where you can actually dance, and it can get pretty packed on the weekend!

Rooftop Bars in Ho Chi Minh City

While Bangkok undeniably takes the crown for the best rooftop bars in Southeast Asia, Saigon has some awesome ones too! These are some of the best rooftop bars in Ho Chi Minh City.

Chill Skybar & Dining

Location: AB Tower, 76A Đ. Lê Lai, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1

Chill Skybar is one of the most impressive bars for a night out in Saigon. This rooftop is located atop the AB Tower, just a short walk away from the Bui Vien walking street. The rooftop opens up to panoramic views of the Bitexco Financial Tower. The DJ and dancers set the upscale club-like mood. The prices are much higher than other bars, but the views and immaculate vibes are well worth it.

Note that Chill Skybar enforces a dress code. While casual attire is fine, shorts, flip-flops, and tank tops are generally prohibited.

Blank Lounge Landmark

Location: Floor 75th – 76th, Landmark 81, Binh Thanh

Blank Lounge is the highest bar in Vietnam, therefore it simply had to make this list. You’ll find it on the 75th floor of the Landmark 81 tower. The building is over in Binh Thanh and slightly out of the way of the city center, but well worth a visit! The view here will be much different than what you’ll see from rooftops in D1.

The views are simply incredible and can be enjoyed during both the day and night, as Blank Lounge opens in the morning.

Social Club Rooftop Bar

Location: 76 78 Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai, St, Quận 3

What makes Social Club stand out is its panoramic pool (only for hotel guests). It’s one of the nicest rooftop pools you’ll find anywhere in Saigon. The rooftop remains open past midnight, while the pool shuts down at 8 PM daily. Enjoy great drinks with a fantastic view and laid-back vibe during the afternoon, and then party later in the evening.

For the absolute best deal, come here in the afternoon for the happy hour- which is between 3 PM and 7 PM.

Looking for more things to do in various destinations around the world? Check out some of my other posts!