Bui Vien Street Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City's iconic Bui Vien Street: a vibrant, neon-lit pedestrian zone buzzing with nightlife, street food, and endless energy.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Street comes alive with energy
Bui Vien Street Ho Chi Minh City
Best Time
Street comes alive with energy
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ho Chi Minh City's iconic Bui Vien Street: a vibrant, neon-lit pedestrian zone buzzing with nightlife, street food, and endless energy.
"It's not for the faint-hearted, but if you’re after live bands, cheap beer, or just a place to people-watch, this is it."
🎯 Arrive after 9 PM
The street truly awakens after 9 PM with neon lights and energetic vibes.
🚶♀️ Brace for Crowds
It gets very busy, especially on weekends. Be prepared for a chaotic, sensory-rich experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Neon-Lit Spectacle
Witness the street transform into a dazzling display of neon lights and vibrant energy as night falls.
Street Food Delights
Sample a wide array of delicious and affordable street food offerings from numerous stalls.
Live Music and Bars
Immerse yourself in the thumping music and lively atmosphere of the many bars and clubs.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Nightlife
Navigate the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Arrive after 9 PM
The street truly awakens after 9 PM with neon lights and energetic vibes.
🚶♀️ Brace for Crowds
It gets very busy, especially on weekends. Be prepared for a chaotic, sensory-rich experience.
🍜 Savor Street Food
Don't miss out on the diverse and affordable street food options available.
💰 Watch for Scams
Be aware of potential scams, especially around bars and pubs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive after 9 PM
The street truly awakens after 9 PM with neon lights and energetic vibes.
🚶♀️ Brace for Crowds
It gets very busy, especially on weekends. Be prepared for a chaotic, sensory-rich experience.
🍜 Savor Street Food
Don't miss out on the diverse and affordable street food options available.
💰 Watch for Scams
Be aware of potential scams, especially around bars and pubs.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
Experience the loud music and lively atmosphere from the numerous bars and clubs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Bui Vien Street is a vibrant and energetic nightlife hub, praised for its lively atmosphere, abundant street food, and cheap drinks. Visitors enjoy the dazzling neon lights and the sheer buzz of the place, especially after dark. However, some find it overwhelmingly crowded and chaotic, with a few warning about potential scams and suggesting it's more of a tourist trap than an authentic local experience.
"It’s fun going around the alleys during the day, and you’ll find lots of good food/restaurants. A complete mess at night with so many drunk people 😂"
Nick Rivas
"Great street to visit, it starts to liven up around 9pm , vibrant, lots of bars , clubs ,eateries."
Beverley Marino
"Great atmosphere, one of the best walking streets ive visited! Definitely check out Bùi Viên if you are in Ho Chi Minh City!"
Charlie Ibbetson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach Bui Vien Street from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) are by taxi or ride-sharing app like Grab. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. Some travelers suggest pre-booking a Grab to avoid potential taxi scams.
While there isn't a direct metro line to Bui Vien Street, several bus routes pass through District 1, which is nearby. However, many visitors find taxis or Grab to be the most convenient option for reaching the street directly.
Within District 1, walking is feasible if you're staying nearby. For longer distances or to avoid the heat, ride-sharing apps like Grab are highly recommended for their convenience and transparent pricing.
Bui Vien Walking Street is officially closed to traffic on weekend evenings, typically from 7 PM to 2 AM. During these times, you'll need to park your vehicle nearby and walk.
Yes, there are numerous hotels and hostels located very close to Bui Vien Street, catering to various budgets. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no tickets required to enter Bui Vien Walking Street. It's a public street that becomes a pedestrian zone on weekend nights.
Bui Vien Walking Street is generally open 24/7, but it truly comes alive and is closed to traffic on weekend evenings, typically from Friday night through Sunday night.
While entry to the street is free, individual bars and clubs may have cover charges or minimum spending requirements, especially for popular venues or during special events.
While generally safe, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings due to the large crowds and the presence of street vendors and performers. Be cautious of your belongings and aware of potential scams.
Yes, you can visit Bui Vien Street during the day, and it's a good time to explore the food stalls and restaurants without the intense crowds and noise of the night.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Expect a high-energy, chaotic, and vibrant atmosphere with loud music, neon lights, street performers, and a mix of locals and tourists. It's often described as the 'backpacker street' or 'party street' of Ho Chi Minh City.
The main attractions include a wide variety of bars, clubs, street food stalls, restaurants, massage parlors, and street performers. It's a hub for nightlife and entertainment.
Bui Vien Street is primarily known for its nightlife and can be very loud and crowded, making it less suitable for young children. Families might prefer exploring other parts of Ho Chi Minh City.
Casual and comfortable clothing is recommended, especially given the warm climate and the possibility of walking through crowded areas. Light, breathable fabrics are ideal.
Be respectful of locals and other visitors. While it's a lively area, avoid excessive noise or disruptive behavior. Tipping servers and performers is appreciated.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You'll find a vast array of Vietnamese street food, including pho, banh mi, spring rolls, grilled meats, and seafood. International options and Western dishes are also available in many restaurants.
Many street food stalls and smaller eateries offer very affordable prices. Restaurants can vary, but generally, you can find reasonably priced meals, especially if you stick to local dishes.
Popular choices include grilled skewers, fresh spring rolls (goi cuon), banh xeo (crispy pancakes), and various noodle dishes. Don't be afraid to try new things!
While many dishes are meat-based, you can often find vegetarian options like vegetable pho, spring rolls, and banh mi with tofu. It's always best to ask about ingredients.
Beer is extremely popular and widely available at very low prices. You'll also find cocktails, fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and soft drinks.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street is a photographer's dream at night with its vibrant neon signs, bustling crowds, and street performers. Look for unique angles and capture the energy.
While it's a lively public space, it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially performers or vendors.
Nighttime is when the street truly shines with its neon lights and energetic atmosphere, making it ideal for vibrant photography.
Keep an eye out for street performers, unique food preparations, and the colorful signage of the bars and clubs. The sheer density of activity provides endless photo opportunities.
Using a wider aperture (lower f-number) and a higher ISO can help capture low-light conditions. A tripod can be beneficial for sharper images, but handheld shots are common given the dynamic environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🎉 Party Goers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bui Vien Experience: More Than Just a Street
While it's a popular destination for its lively nightlife, some visitors find it overwhelmingly chaotic and tourist-centric. It's important to go with the right expectations – be prepared for crowds, loud music, and a constant buzz. For those seeking a more authentic local bar scene, some travelers suggest venturing off Bui Vien to find less touristy spots.
Despite its intensity, Bui Vien offers an unforgettable glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant after-dark scene. Whether you're there for the cheap beer, the exotic street food, or simply to people-watch, it's an experience that defines the city's energetic spirit.
Navigating Bui Vien: Tips for a Smoother Visit
When it comes to dining, Bui Vien is a street food paradise. You can find an incredible variety of affordable and delicious local dishes, from grilled skewers to fresh spring rolls. However, it's also wise to be aware of potential scams, particularly around bars and pubs, as highlighted by some traveler experiences. Always confirm prices and be cautious of overly aggressive touts.
For those looking to capture the essence of Bui Vien, nighttime offers the most dramatic visuals with its neon lights and energetic atmosphere. While it's a lively public space, remember to be respectful and ask permission before taking close-up photos of individuals.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit