Vietnam Nightlife

Vietnam's nightlife could be considered quiet with far fewer mega-clubs than nearby cities like Bangkok and Hong Kong. However, a night out in Vietnam's cities — with plenty of beer, street food, and rice wine — will feel like a truly local experience.

Younger people crowd into karaoke bars and slick hotspots in Ho Chi Minh City, and the local craft beer scene is growing healthily. Nightlife is quieter in northern cities, like Hanoi, but you can still find lively nighttime eateries. Food is very important to any evening out and meals can last for hours! Major cities also have plenty of Western-style bars too.

Another evening activity not to be missed is joining in on shots of locally made rice wine, or 'happy water', in a homestay. Local families in Mai Chau, Ninh Binh, and Sapa will be happy to oblige.

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Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city where ancient traditions and modern life exist side by side. Located along the banks of the Red River, it is one of Southeast Asia’s oldest capitals, with a history that stretches back over a thousand years. Founded in 1010 under the Ly Dynasty, Hanoi was originally named Thang Long, meaning “Ascending Dragon.” Over centuries, it has witnessed periods of Chinese domination, Vietnamese independence, French colonial rule, and modern development, each leaving a distinct mark on the city’s identity. Today, Hanoi stands as a cultural and political heart of Vietnam, where history is not just preserved in museums but lives on in its streets, architecture, and daily life.

Hoi An

If ever Vietnam had its own storybook town, it would be Hoi An. It’s a rare traveler who fails to be taken in by Hoi An’s rich history and enchanted by its shimmering lanterns.

Ho Chi Minh City

There’s no better place to get a feel for urban Vietnam than the energetic streets of Ho Chi Minh City. This is Vietnam's largest city and one of the country's most free-spirited destinations. Still referred to as ‘Saigon’ by locals, it is known for hordes of motorbikes, mouthwatering food, and hip coffee shops.

Ha Long Bay

The name Ha Long means “descending dragon” – a fitting title for a bay steeped in mystical legends and boasting scenery to match. There are countless tales of how and why the name came about. One of the most well-known tells of a dragon that came down from the sky, spitting thousands of pearls from its fiery mouth, which became the islets and karsts that now dot the bay.

Phu Quoc Island

Located in the glittering expanse of the Gulf of Thailand, Phu Quoc is Vietnam’s very own island paradise. Neighbouring the similarly paradisiacal islands of Cambodia, Phu Quoc features long stretches of idyllic sand; dense untouched jungle, and a growing collection of mega resorts. But with over 221.6 square miles (574 sq km) of land, there is still a slice of island for everyone.

Can Tho

Can Tho is the main hub of commerce and tourism in the busy and beautiful Mekong Delta. Known as the ‘rice basket of Vietnam’ due to its fertile soil and thriving agricultural industry, Can Tho is a quintessential Mekong destination. Travel through tight canals in a sampan boat, visit floating markets, and dine on fresh Mekong produce.

Da Nang

Da Nang is an essential port city in central Vietnam, on the coast between Hoi An and Hue. Visitors who stay here get to experience the nightlife, interesting local art, and beautiful hikes up the nearby Marble Mountains.

Nha Trang

Hotels crowd the shores of Nha Trang’s popular beach. This is a highly developed area, and visitors will have plenty of amusement parks and shopping centers to choose from. Nha Trang also has a lot of bars that quickly fill with travelers and backpackers after the sun sets. Accommodations in the area cater to the backpacker and resort crowds.