5 Great Places to Spend Your Evening in Ho Chi Minh City

Coffee Shops

It may sound unusual to enjoy a cup of coffee at night, especially if you're thinking about the renowned Vietnamese black drip coffee. However, sipping coffee with friends at night has become a cherished activity in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). The city boasts an array of coffee shops, each with its unique theme, catering to all tastes.

Highlands Coffee Shop in HCMC

If you prefer traditional espresso or other familiar coffee items, the Highlands Coffee chain is an excellent choice. Known for a diverse menu ranging from coffee to non-coffee beverages, including smoothies and sodas, Highlands Coffee focuses on quality. The drinks follow Western recipes, offering a distinct taste that might feel nostalgic for those from abroad.

Highlands Coffee Shop - Photo: nqtm

King Koi Coffee Garden

King Koi Coffee Garden captivates visitors with its unique ambiance. Here, guests can enjoy their coffee surrounded by koi fish, making for a delightful experience. Not only can you sip your drink, but you can also feed the fish and capture beautiful moments with picturesque backdrops.

King Koi Coffee Garden - Photo: @chonmathip_rc

Co Ba Saigon Rooftop Cafe

Situated at a prime location along the riverside, Co Ba Saigon Rooftop Cafe offers a beautiful view of the Saigon River. This place attracts those who enjoy a vintage atmosphere reminiscent of old Saigon. Patrons can sit on vintage furniture while soaking in the nostalgia as they sip their coffee.

Co Ba Sai Gon Rooftop Coffee - Photo: Cà Phê Cô Ba Đồng Khởi

Other Coffee Shops

Local favorites contribute to the vibrant coffee culture in HCMC with bustling shops on streets like Pham Ngoc Thach, Dien Bien Phu, and Cach Mang Thang Tam. These venues typically provide a relaxed atmosphere with music setting the backdrop for friendly gatherings. Some even feature live traditional music, ideal for intimate conversations between friends or couples. Popular spots include Yen Acoustic Cafe at 7 Ngo Thoi Nhiem and Vung Cafe at 17 Ngo Thoi Nhiem, making them great choices for live music enthusiasts. Additionally, areas like Pham Ngu Lao and Dong Khoi are rife with options.

Night Bars and Pubs

Bars play a significant role in HCMC's nightlife, especially for those who enjoy music and dancing. These venues pulsate with energy and provide the perfect environment for relaxation and socializing with friends, both old and new.

Photo: @hemchill.d2

With a lively and sociable atmosphere, these bars offer an extensive menu of food and drinks, primarily featuring snacks paired with beverages. One notable location is Acoustic Bar, located at 6E1 Ngo Thoi Nhiem Street, District 3, which is popular for its vibrant music scene.

Cocktails and mocktails are also sought after, appealing to a wide audience beyond just women. These refreshing drinks blend various spirits, juices, and fruits, resulting in a tropical flavor unique to Vietnam.

Drink prices vary significantly, starting from around $10 at typical bars and potentially reaching over $100 at upscale venues. Five-star hotel bars like Sheraton, New World, and Park Hyatt are notably pricier, with a simple drink like soda costing around $7.50.

Movie Theatres

Catching a movie in HCMC is a popular nighttime pastime, offering an opportunity to unwind with family, friends, or a date. While cinemas provide an entertaining escape, they're not ideal for chatty discussions.

CGV Cinema - Photo: @cgvcinemasvietnam

CGV remains a leading cinema chain in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its excellent screen quality, immersive sound, and comfortable seating. Ticket prices range from $5 to $10, peaking on weekends. Another popular option, Galaxy Cinema, boasts 9 locations: Galaxy Nguyen Du (District 1), Galaxy Tan Binh (Tan Binh District), Galaxy Kinh Duong Vuong (District 6), Galaxy Pham Van Chi (District 6), Galaxy Trung Chanh (District 12), Galaxy Nguyen Van Qua (District 12), Galaxy Huynh Tan Phat (District 7), Galaxy Linh Trung (Thu Duc District), and Galaxy Quang Trung (Go Vap District).

Galaxy tickets are more affordable, ranging from $2.50 to $4.50 for 2D films, although the sound quality may not match CGV’s when it comes to action movies. However, Galaxy stands out for its reasonably priced and delicious snacks and drinks.

Night Markets

Exploring night markets is a delightful experience that many people enjoy. These markets offer a wide range of products from clothing and accessories to food and beverages. A night out at the market with friends can be both fun and engaging as you haggle over prices and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Ben Thanh Night Market - Photo: @linhpiu

Among the numerous night markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanh Thong Tay Night Market and Ben Thanh Night Market are particularly popular. Hanh Thong Tay attracts a youthful crowd, especially university students, with its bustling vibe. Though it is smaller and can become crowded, the vibrant atmosphere and the offerings of trendy, colorful clothing appeal to the younger demographic.

Conversely, Ben Thanh Night Market appeals more to tourists due to its central location, making it an accessible stop for those enjoying an evening stroll. The market features a diverse selection of clothing and unique Vietnamese souvenirs, including handicrafts and accessories, alongside an array of traditional Vietnamese foods.

Live Concerts (Uniquely Ho Chi Minh City)

Attending a concert is a fantastic way to enjoy your evening, as Saigon regularly hosts a variety of live performances—something that Hanoians often envy. The city boasts numerous stages suitable for concerts, featuring events almost every weekend. Whether you're interested in international acts or local talent, live music provides an exciting experience.

Live Concert - Photo: wowweekend

Concert ticket prices typically start at around $5 and can vary significantly based on the event. Unlike movie theaters, concert timings are fixed, so planning ahead is essential. Concerts tend to attract younger audiences who revel in live music and dancing. Popular venues for concerts include Lan Anh and Trong Dong, while Military Stadium 7 frequently hosts international music events, so keep an eye on local listings for upcoming shows.