Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar - Roof of Taipei
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Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar

4
·312 reviews·, Vietnam

An iconic Saigon rooftop bar blending history, colonial charm, and stunning city views with nightly live music.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoon

Avoid the morning sun

CrowdMedium
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Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar - Roof of Taipei

Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar

Best Time

Afternoon

Avoid the morning sun

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

An iconic Saigon rooftop bar blending history, colonial charm, and stunning city views with nightly live music.

4
(312 reviews)

"A time-honored icon nestled in history with a prime vantage point over Saigon's heart."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Live Music Schedule

Inquire about the band's schedule to enjoy live music during your visit.

☀️ Afternoon is Comfier

Mornings can be too sunny; afternoons offer a more pleasant outdoor experience.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Saigon Views

Panoramic Saigon Views

5th Floor

Sweeping vistas of Nguyen Hue street, the Opera House, and People's Committee Hall. Landmarks feel close and vivid.

Live Music Performances

Live Music Performances

Enjoy nightly sets ranging from jazz to acoustic and flamenco, adding a lively ambiance to your visit.

Historic 'Five O'Clock Follies' Vibe

Historic 'Five O'Clock Follies' Vibe

Experience the atmosphere where war correspondents once gathered, a unique blend of history and modern Saigon.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the History and the Vibe

This iconic rooftop bar was a hub for war correspondents during the Vietnam War. Expect a classic atmosphere with live music nightly, blending colonial charm with a garden terrace feel. It's a prime spot for soaking in the city's history and vibrant present.

Timing is Key for Views and Comfort

While the views are stunning, mornings can be quite sunny. Consider an afternoon visit for a more comfortable experience. The rooftop often hosts private events, so checking availability or making a reservation is wise, especially for evening entertainment.

Best Times

When
Afternoon
Why
Avoid the morning sun
Crowd
Medium
When
Evening
Why
Live music and city lights
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

We love a vibey rooftop🍸🌃 The food was just as good as the ambience🤌🏼 If you just want a drink they have a whole lounge area and bar on the other side of the rooftop separate from the restaurant! So aesthetic and lowkey✨ Neeed to come back for golden hour! 📍Lemon Grove at the Aster Hotel @Lemon Grove #rooftoprestaurant #larestaurants #placestoeatinla #restaurantsinlosangeles #lafoodie
@itsalexabain
94.5K likes • 641.8K views

🎯 Check Live Music Schedule

Inquire about the band's schedule to enjoy live music during your visit. Reddit

☀️ Afternoon is Comfier

Mornings can be too sunny; afternoons offer a more pleasant outdoor experience. Reddit

this rooftop has the best view in Barcelona hands down 😮‍💨 location at the end! Tip: better reserve online in advance ✨ #barcelona #barcelonarooftops #rooftopbars #barcelonarooftopbar #bestrooftops #rooftopguide #barcelonatips #barcelonaguide #barcelonatravel #explorebarcelona #mustvisitbarcelona #barcelonaviews #barcelonaskyline #explore #bestviews #barcelonatravelguide #barcelonatraveltips #bar...
@victorialaurban
93.6K likes • 1M views
The hard rock hotel rooftop bar is amazing to watch the sunset and enjoy cocktails #TenerifeFirstExcursions #tenerife #sunset #hardrock
@tenerifefirstexcursions
42.6K likes • 1M views

🥂 Book for Events

Part of the space may be booked for events; check availability for evening entertainment. Reddit

🍹 Cocktails & Mocktails

Enjoy a range of cocktails and mocktails, with some guests receiving complimentary options. TikTok

a garden in the middle of dtla🌳#jinchinabistro #rooftopgarden #dtla #la #larooftop #downtownla #kyotogarden #doubletreebyhilton #dtlahotel #dateidea
@exploreytion
26.9K likes • 200.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Live Music Schedule

Inquire about the band's schedule to enjoy live music during your visit. Reddit

☀️ Afternoon is Comfier

Mornings can be too sunny; afternoons offer a more pleasant outdoor experience. Reddit

🥂 Book for Events

Part of the space may be booked for events; check availability for evening entertainment. Reddit

🍹 Cocktails & Mocktails

Enjoy a range of cocktails and mocktails, with some guests receiving complimentary options. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4
(312 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar for its iconic historical significance, stunning panoramic views of Saigon, and classic ambiance enhanced by nightly live music. While the food is often described as average and service can be slow, the overall experience is elevated by the unique atmosphere and prime location.

"Great Foods, Drinks and the View !

Why Visit
A time-honored icon nestled in history
This rooftop bar once served as a hangout for war correspondents and US military officers during the Vietnam War—famously linked to the "Five O'Clock Follies."

Prime vantage point over Saigon’s heart
Located on the 5th floor, it offers sweeping views of Nguyen Hue, including the Opera House and the People’s Committee Hall—thanks to its lower elevation, the landmarks feel close and vivid.

Classic atmosphere with nightly live music
The place blends colonial charm with a garden terrace aesthetic—wooden decking, bonsai, decorative statues—and hosts live performances ranging from jazz to acoustic and flamenco."

Paul Parent

"📍UNIQUE dining location at CENTRAL CITY !

For celebration of Union Day, our fam enjoyed the breakfast at the iconic REX hotel. Been there a few times for drinks & sightseeing.

Drinks starting from 180k ~7$ & breakfast (either phở, bún bò, miến) starting from 280k - 10$-12$). Meals were relatively slow to be served.

Vibe is definitely the reason to come; however, I prefer afternoon dining, as morning was to sunny to stay outside.

Mine was bún bò huế; they carefully peal the beef from knuckle before serve; so no messy eating 👌. Food was average at best; it wasn’t our priority so no big deal. 4.5 mil ~ 175$ for 8 pax - nice for these special visits."

Nhan To

"Just dropped in for a drink before the Opera. We had a banana/strawberry smoothie and a Red Label beer. Total cost was d239000.

The hotel and restaurant are extremely elegant. We thoroughly enjoyed the break."

Geoff Lewis

What People Like

Iconic historical significance
Stunning city views
Classic ambiance

What People Dislike

Average food quality
Slow service
Can be booked for events

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar is located on the 5th floor of the iconic Rex Hotel in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It's easily accessible by taxi or ride-sharing services, situated centrally on Nguyen Hue Street, making it a convenient destination for exploring the city. TikTok

Yes, the Rex Hotel is a well-known landmark in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The rooftop bar is on the 5th floor, so look for signs directing you to the rooftop or ask hotel staff for assistance. TikTok

From Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), you can take a taxi or a ride-sharing service like Grab. The journey typically takes 30-45 minutes depending on traffic. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, typically you do not need to purchase separate tickets to enter the Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar. Entry is usually free, and you pay for your food and drinks. However, it's advisable to check if there are any special events or cover charges. Reddit

The rooftop bar is generally open throughout the day and into the evening, offering breakfast, drinks, and dining. Specific hours can vary, and it's best to confirm directly with the hotel, especially for live music times. Reddit

While not strictly enforced, smart casual attire is recommended to match the elegant atmosphere of the Rex Hotel. Avoid beachwear or overly casual clothing, especially for evening visits. TikTok

Reservations are recommended, especially for evening dining or if you wish to secure a table with a good view, as parts of the rooftop can be booked for private events. TikTok

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll get a prime vantage point overlooking Saigon's heart, including Nguyen Hue Street, the Opera House, and the People's Committee Hall. The lower elevation makes the landmarks feel very close and vivid. Reddit

Yes, the bar features nightly live music performances, ranging from jazz to acoustic and flamenco, adding to the classic atmosphere. Reddit

The atmosphere is a blend of colonial charm and a garden terrace aesthetic, with wooden decking, bonsai trees, and decorative statues, creating a classic and elegant setting. Reddit

Yes, families can enjoy the breakfast and sightseeing opportunities. However, the evening atmosphere with live music might be more suited for adults. Reddit

Anywhere with a clear view of the city landmarks will offer great photo opportunities. The garden elements also provide charming backdrops. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The menu includes options like pho, bun bo, mien, and smoked salmon banh mi. They also offer steak and seafood on a hot stone, though food quality is sometimes described as average. TikTokReddit

Drinks start around 180,000 VND (~$7 USD), and breakfast items like pho are priced from 280,000 VND (~$10-12 USD). Meals can be slow to serve. Reddit

While specific options aren't detailed, the menu includes noodle dishes and other Vietnamese staples that may have vegetarian variations. It's best to inquire with the staff. Reddit

Yes, the Rex Hotel offers breakfast at its rooftop location, with options like pho, bun bo, and mien. Reddit

Some reviews mention that meals can be relatively slow to be served, so factor this into your dining plans. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Golden hour, just before sunset, offers beautiful lighting for cityscapes and portraits. Evenings provide a different charm with the city lights. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is allowed. However, professional photoshoots might require prior permission. TikTok

The panoramic city views are a major draw. The garden elements, colonial architecture, and live musicians also make for great shots. TikTok

Yes, you can usually take photos of the live bands, but be mindful of not obstructing their performance or other guests' views. Reddit

A versatile lens for cityscapes and portraits would be ideal. A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is also sufficient for most visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Families can enjoy the Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar, particularly for breakfast or a daytime visit. The hotel offers traditional Vietnamese breakfast options like pho and bun bo, which can be a fun culinary experience for children. The views of the city are also engaging for younger visitors. Reddit

However, it's important to note that the atmosphere can shift in the evening with live music and a more adult-oriented crowd. Mornings can also be quite sunny, so consider bringing hats or seeking shaded areas. While the food is generally considered average, the unique setting and historical context make it a worthwhile stop for families looking for a memorable experience. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the Rex Hotel is a historic and elegant establishment, visiting the rooftop bar doesn't have to break the bank. Drinks start at a reasonable price point (around 180,000 VND), and you can enjoy the views and ambiance without necessarily ordering a full meal. Reddit

Consider visiting during happy hour if available, or opt for a single drink to soak in the atmosphere. Breakfast options are also priced relatively affordably for a hotel of this caliber, offering a chance to experience the iconic location without a significant splurge. Reddit

💖 Couples

The Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar offers a romantic setting, especially in the evening. The combination of stunning city views, classic ambiance, and live music creates a perfect backdrop for a date night or a special occasion. Enjoying cocktails while overlooking the illuminated city is a memorable experience. TikTokReddit

For an even more intimate experience, try to secure a table with a prime view. The garden terrace elements add to the charm, making it a picturesque spot for couples looking to enjoy good drinks and conversation in a sophisticated yet relaxed environment. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History

The Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar is steeped in history, famously serving as a gathering spot for war correspondents and US military officers during the Vietnam War. This era is often referred to as the "Five O'Clock Follies." Visiting the rooftop offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and imagine the atmosphere of that period, blending historical significance with the vibrant present of Ho Chi Minh City. Reddit

This historical context adds a layer of depth to the experience, making it more than just a place for drinks and views. It's a chance to connect with a significant part of the city's past while enjoying modern amenities. The blend of colonial charm in the hotel's architecture and the garden terrace aesthetic of the rooftop further enhances this historical immersion. Reddit

The Art of the Rooftop View

Perched on the 5th floor, the Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar offers a prime vantage point over the bustling heart of Saigon. Unlike higher observation decks, its slightly lower elevation provides a more intimate and vivid perspective of key landmarks such as Nguyen Hue Street, the historic Opera House, and the People's Committee Hall. This proximity allows visitors to truly appreciate the architectural details and the dynamic street life below. Reddit

The views are particularly captivating during the 'golden hour' before sunset, casting a warm glow over the city, and at night when the urban landscape transforms into a glittering tapestry of lights. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely breakfast or a cocktail in the evening, the ever-present cityscape serves as a stunning backdrop, making every moment memorable. TikTok

Evening Ambiance and Entertainment

As dusk settles, the Rex Hotel Rooftop Garden Bar truly comes alive with a classic atmosphere enhanced by nightly live music. The performances, which can range from smooth jazz to lively flamenco, create an engaging and sophisticated ambiance. This makes the rooftop an ideal spot for an evening out, whether for a relaxed drink or a more celebratory occasion. Reddit

While the live music is a major draw, it's worth noting that parts of the rooftop may be reserved for private events, which could affect the general seating availability or introduce ambient noise from receptions. Therefore, checking in advance or arriving early is advisable to ensure the best experience, especially if you're looking forward to enjoying the music and city lights. TikTokReddit

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