Nguyen Van Binh Book Street
A charming pedestrian street in HCMC's District 1, lined with bookstores, cafes, and unique souvenirs.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibe
Nguyen Van Binh Book Street
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming pedestrian street in HCMC's District 1, lined with bookstores, cafes, and unique souvenirs.
"A fantastic little place right in the heart of the city, Ho Chi Minh City Book Street is an absolute must for book lovers."
🎯 Find English Books
While most books are in Vietnamese, look for classic English titles and international selections.
☕ Sip & Read
Grab a coffee from a cafe and enjoy it with your new book purchase.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Bookstore Row
Along Nguyen Van Binh Street
Explore over 20 unique bookstores offering a diverse range of Vietnamese and international titles.

Al Fresco Cafes
Scattered along the street
Enjoy a relaxing Vietnamese coffee or tea amidst the literary ambiance.
Architectural Charm
Street surroundings
Admire the blend of classic Vietnamese architecture and the vibrant book street.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Escape the City Buzz
Bookworm's Paradise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Find English Books
While most books are in Vietnamese, look for classic English titles and international selections.
☕ Sip & Read
Grab a coffee from a cafe and enjoy it with your new book purchase.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The street's unique ambiance makes it ideal for capturing memorable photos.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunting
Discover unique stationery, postcards, and souvenirs alongside books.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Find English Books
While most books are in Vietnamese, look for classic English titles and international selections.
☕ Sip & Read
Grab a coffee from a cafe and enjoy it with your new book purchase.
📸 Perfect Photo Spot
The street's unique ambiance makes it ideal for capturing memorable photos.
🛍️ Souvenir Hunting
Discover unique stationery, postcards, and souvenirs alongside books.
🚶♀️ Pedestrian Paradise
Enjoy a leisurely stroll as the street is closed to vehicles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Nguyen Van Binh Book Street as a charming and peaceful escape in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It's praised for its unique concept, relaxed atmosphere, and the variety of books and souvenirs available. While many books are in Vietnamese, the opportunity to find English classics and enjoy a coffee amidst literary surroundings makes it a highly recommended spot for a quiet break.
"A fantastic little place right in the heart of the city, Ho Chi Minh City Book Street is an absolute must for book lovers and café seekers alike. Just around the corner from the iconic Central Post Office, this peaceful tree-lined street offers a unique escape from the city’s buzz.
Lined with bookshops, from local publishers to stalls with international selections, there’s something for readers of all kinds—whether you’re into romance, thrillers, or thought-provoking non-fiction. Many shops also offer stationery, postcards, and souvenirs, giving it a charming blend of local culture and creativity.
There are several shaded benches and casual cafés where you can sip on a Vietnamese coffee or tea while diving into your latest read. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, and you could easily spend an hour or two browsing, sitting back, or people-watching.
Art installations and sculptures add to the charm, and the entire space feels thoughtfully curated and community-focused. It’s clean, pedestrian-only, and a great place to slow down.
I highly recommend it for solo travelers, couples, or anyone looking for a break in a calm and creative setting. A refreshing change of pace right in the middle of District 1."
John Winter
"Really atmospheric and despite literally being a street full of book stores, it’s not boring or repetitive to browse each store’s selection. My most favorite one has got to be the store with the philosophy and rare antique books translated in Vietnamese. At one end you can already access the cathedral and just around the corner is the Post Office. The mall at the other end of the street is good too—for lunch and withdrawing cash at the VP Bank ATM."
Jecko Sanjorjo
"They have a great collection of souvenirs and stationary along with cafes, and restaurants.
The street offers : a large collection of books to buy from, live caricature drawings, themed art work, and a verity of suvinears to choose from.
Also it's right next to the post office !"
vivek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is conveniently located in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It stretches about 100 meters from Hai Ba Trung Street towards the Notre Dame Cathedral. You can easily reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or by walking if you are staying nearby.
While there isn't a direct bus stop right on the street, several bus routes pass through District 1, and you can then take a short walk or a quick Grab ride to reach the book street.
The street is pedestrian-only, so the best way to explore is by walking. Take your time to browse the bookstores, enjoy a coffee, and soak in the atmosphere.
Parking can be challenging in central District 1. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or check for designated parking areas near the Central Post Office or Notre Dame Cathedral, though these may incur fees.
While cycling is possible, remember that the street itself is pedestrian-only. You'll need to find a place to park your bicycle nearby before entering the book street.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is completely free. It's a public space designed for everyone to enjoy.
The book street is generally open daily from around 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM, allowing visitors to enjoy it during both day and evening hours.
There are no entrance fees for the bookstores themselves. You are welcome to browse freely, and you only pay if you decide to purchase a book or other items.
Yes, the book street is open on weekends and is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. It might be a bit busier on weekends.
Weekday mornings tend to be less crowded, offering a more peaceful experience. Evenings can also be pleasant with a relaxed atmosphere.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide variety of books, primarily in Vietnamese. However, many bookstores also stock classic literature in English and other languages, as well as stationery and souvenirs.
Yes, there are several charming cafes along the street where you can enjoy Vietnamese coffee, tea, and light snacks while browsing or relaxing.
Absolutely! It's a peaceful, pedestrian-only street that's great for families to stroll, discover books, and enjoy a quiet moment away from the city's traffic.
You can relax at the cafes, people-watch, admire the street's unique atmosphere, and browse for souvenirs and stationery. There are also often art installations.
Yes, the street's unique layout, architecture, and literary theme make it a very photogenic spot.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire street offers great photo opportunities! Look for the colorful bookstore facades, the tree-lined path, and any art installations. The proximity to the Notre Dame Cathedral also provides a scenic backdrop.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the street's serene atmosphere. Late afternoons can provide a warm, golden hour glow.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is welcomed. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other visitors and ask permission if you plan to take close-up shots of individuals or their merchandise.
Most bookstores are fine with casual photography, but it's a good idea to check with the staff first, especially if you're taking many photos or using flash.
A versatile lens like a 35mm or 50mm prime lens is great for capturing the street's ambiance. A wide-angle lens can be useful for architectural shots, and a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While most books are in Vietnamese, children can still enjoy browsing the colorful covers, and some shops may have picture books or translated classics. The cafes provide a nice spot for parents to rest while kids enjoy a drink or snack. It's a great place to introduce children to the joy of books in a unique setting.
📚 Solo Travelers & Book Lovers
It's also a fantastic spot to simply sit, observe, and soak in the local culture. Grab a coffee, find a bench, and enjoy the unique ambiance. The street's central location makes it easy to incorporate into any solo exploration of Ho Chi Minh City.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for early mornings or late afternoons for the best light and fewer crowds. Capture the details of the bookstore facades, the people browsing, and the overall literary atmosphere. It's a relatively compact area, making it easy to explore and photograph without feeling rushed.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Literary Haven in the City Center
The atmosphere here is distinctly calm and inviting. Unlike the bustling streets surrounding it, Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is a car-free zone, allowing visitors to wander leisurely, browse at their own pace, and truly immerse themselves in the literary environment. The presence of shaded benches and small cafes encourages visitors to linger, perhaps with a freshly brewed Vietnamese coffee, diving into a newly purchased book or simply enjoying the quiet ambiance. This thoughtful design makes it a perfect spot for solo travelers, couples, and families looking for a moment of respite.
Beyond the books, the street is adorned with art installations and architectural elements that add to its charm. It's a place where you can find unique stationery, handcrafted postcards, and local souvenirs, blending the love for literature with the appreciation for Vietnamese craftsmanship. The proximity to other major landmarks like the Central Post Office further enhances its appeal, making it an easy addition to any sightseeing itinerary.
Finding Your Next Read: Books and Beyond
Beyond the printed page, the street is a fantastic place to discover unique souvenirs and stationery. You'll find beautifully designed postcards, notebooks, pens, and other creative items that make for perfect mementos or gifts. This blend of literary goods and artisanal crafts adds to the street's distinct character and appeal.
Several cafes are dotted along the street, offering a perfect spot to relax and enjoy a traditional Vietnamese coffee or a refreshing tea. These cafes provide a cozy atmosphere to flip through your new book or simply people-watch. The overall experience is one of relaxed discovery, encouraging visitors to slow down and appreciate the simple pleasures of reading and enjoying a good cup of coffee.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit