The backpacker nightlife strip of Pham Ngu Lao, with open-front bars, street food and loud music until late.
Bui Vien is the loudest and cheapest drinking street in Ho Chi Minh City. Open-fronted bars, plastic-stool beer corners, street food carts and live acts line the road, and the stretch from Bui Vien to De Tham and Do Quang Dau becomes a sea of travelers every evening. Many bars have shifted toward club-style formats; the quieter ends near Pham Ngu Lao Street stay calmer.
| Price | Draught beer 20,000-50,000 VND / USD 0.76-1.90; bottled beer 40,000-80,000 VND / USD 1.52-3.04; cocktails 80,000-150,000 VND / USD 3.04-5.70 |
|---|---|
| Cover | No cover |
| Hours | Bars open daily from about midday; the street is busiest 19:00-02:00 and pedestrianised at weekends |
| Address | Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City |
Good to know
- Signature
- Backpacker bars, street beer and street food
Location
Bui Vien Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
10.7672, 106.6930 View on map
Highlights
- Cheapest beer and cocktails in District 1
- Street food and snacks between bars
- Live music and DJ sets on open-air stages
- Easy to meet other travelers
Tips for visiting
- Keep phones and bags in front pockets; snatch theft occurs on crowded stretches
- Check any bill carefully and confirm drink prices before ordering
- Avoid accepting drinks or food from strangers and avoid illegal drugs, which carry severe penalties
- Grab cars pick up best from side streets such as De Tham rather than the main strip
When to visit
After 20:00 on Friday to Sunday when the street is pedestrianised.
Accessibility
Street level but crowded, with uneven pavement and heavy foot traffic; few accessible toilets.
Frequently asked questions
Is Bui Vien safe at night?
It is crowded and generally lively, but pickpocketing and phone snatching are the main risks; carry minimal cash and keep valuables secured.
How much is a beer on Bui Vien?
A glass of draught beer is often 20,000-50,000 VND / USD 0.76-1.90; a bottled beer around 40,000-80,000 VND / USD 1.52-3.04.