Bui Vien Street
Immerse yourself in the backpacking crowd and sights of Ho Chi Minh City by visiting Bui Vien Street.
Bui Vien Street is a number of things for different people. During the daytime, the street is an 8-minute walk traversing sheer cement walls and a number of structures. The street is composed of a variety of establishments that include massage parlours, restaurants, hotels, hostels, souvenir shops, pubs, go-go bars, and even travel agencies. You will definitely blend in as it is considered the centre of the tourism industry. It can get as lively as it can be during the day but takes on a whole new life at night.
Bui Vien at night gives way to a new number of sellers hawking their wares in the street itself. The street also takes on a different energy as pubs, bars, and clubs lining the entire street come alive, with girls in front asking you to come in. Be careful though, as petty criminals thrive in the area as well.
Location
Bui Vien Street can be found in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Days and Hours
The street is open every day, any time of the day.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Entrance is free.
How to Get There
- Fly directly into Ho Chi Minh City via any major airline.
- From the city centre, grab a taxi or mototaxi to Bui Vien St.
Suggested For
- Backpackers/solo travelers
- Couples
- Group of friends
Time to Spend
The average time spent on this attraction is 2 to 3 hours.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
Weekends might get a bit crowded, so if you’re not keen on crowds, schedule your visit on a weekday.
Activities
Some things you can do and book in various establishments in the street are: massages/spas, travel tours, rent bikes, eat in various restaurants, stay in hostels/hotels, drink and enjoy the local nightlife.
Food
Must-try restaurants in Bui Vien include üt Lãnh Cafe, Smoothies, Five Oysters, Pepperonis, Phüc Long Coffee & Tea, Ocean Bar & Lounge, Pizza Oliu, and La Famille.
Nearby Attractions
- Minh Anh Art Gallery
- Pham Ngu Lao Street
- Mekong Experience
- Sun Art Gallery
Stay
There are a number of accommodations in Bui Vien Street, including several hotels such as Phoenix 74 Hotel, Le Petit Sai Gon Hotel, Aston Hotel Saigon, Beautiful Saigon Hotel, Graceful Saigon Hotel, and DDA Hotel District 1 (Bizu). Prices range from USD 14 to USD 52 per night.
Good to Know
- Hide all your valuables.
- Be wary of cheats/dishonest sellers.
- Be mindful of your surroundings. If everyone starts to get aggressive, get out.
- Ignore the sellers if you’re not interested. Smiling at them will just encourage them.
- Watch your drinks, especially in bars and nightclubs.
- There are undercover police.
- Note that marijuana is still technically illegal, even if people smoke it openly.
- Pay as you go to avoid getting surprised by your bill.