Nightlife in Vietnam: How to Enjoy Yourself Without Booze or Bars

Going out on the town in the extraordinary country of Vietnam — with its long-storied history and tourist options — introduces you to captivating experiences. Whether you decide to take daytime adventures throughout the region or get all dolled up for a nighttime extravaganza, fun in Vietnam doesn’t have to revolve around alcohol and drugs. This could be especially important if you’ve attended drug or alcohol addiction rehab and don’t want to relapse.

Without the substances, an entire world can open up and you’ll be able to discover the beauty of the area’s festivities, shopping options, theatrical opportunities, and more.

If you want to be a night owl in a country that offers cosmopolitan cultural experiences, Vietnam boasts options that will satisfy your wishes.

4 good places for a night on the town

Hanoi

Do you want an intriguing nightlife experience? Do you want to learn about Vietnam? Consider visiting its capital city, Hanoi. Some places in Hanoi that might interest you include:

  • Old Quarter – Also known as the Ho Kiem District, these 36 streets are considered the oldest neighborhoods in Hanoi. The area is home to the most popular hotels, historical attractions, tourist street shops, and cafés. A late-night outing can include winding your way around each section of the district and stopping to browse, have a cup of tea and snack, and ogle at some eye-popping sights with a storied past.
  • Ho Chi Minh mausoleum – Located in Ba Dinh Square, this structure is the resting spot for Vietnam’s famous leader, Ho Chi Minh. He became available for public viewing in 1975, almost 30 years after he read his Declaration of Independence at this site in 1945.

Da Nang

In addition to its friendly rooftop bars and sophisticated lounges that appeal to expats, Da Nang also has fascinating cultural experiences awaiting the novice or seasoned traveler:

  • Da Nang cathedral – An architectural gem that is illuminated at night to showcase its reputation as one of the most unique Catholic churches in Vietnam. Plan to visit around dusk to hear its bells and see the famous rooster weathercock perched on the bell tower. It’s only a 15-minute walk from the iconic Dragon River Bridge.
  • Quan Com Hue Ngon – A no-frills eatery that serves a variety of authentic Vietnam cuisine and is easy on a traveler’s budget. Considered the prominent haunt in the local Da Nang City Centre, this restaurant serves diners quickly, giving them time to sightsee other places.

Ho Chi Minh (also known as Saigon)

Often associated with the famous trail of the same name, Ho Chi Minh is Vietnam’s largest city and has plenty to do during the evening hours:

  • Casinos – While not as prominent as they are in cities such as Las Vegas or Atlantic City, casinos in two hotels in Ho Chi Minh allow gambling aficionados to satisfy their urge to play poker tables or slot machines after dark. The Caravelle Hotel and the Sheraton Saigon Hotel and Towers offer roulette tables, slots, poker, and mah jongg, which is particularly popular in Vietnam.
  • Ben Than Night Market – This area plays a central role in Ho Chi Minh after dark. Although bustling in the daytime hours, the market also offers souvenirs, seafood, and fashion stalls that are open until the wee hours of the morning.

Nha Trang

A unique beach town that boasts colorful puppet performances, light shows, traditional Vietnamese musical acts, and so much more:

  • Mud baths – After a day of sightseeing and traveling, you can find rejuvenation and rest in popular spots. A good time to visit is at dusk, when the baths are less crowded. Check out Thap Ba Hot Springs Centre, which offers private and shared mud baths, jacuzzis, herbal baths, and waterfalls that light up at night.
  • Cooking classes – Get a taste of true Vietnam culture by helping to prepare its cuisine. Some local restaurants offer half-day evening session cooking classes that give travelers a chance to experience the area’s local eats and share skills and traditional Vietnamese recipes that they can take home.

Conclusion

Traveling in and around Vietnam can be a whirlwind journey. There are numerous avenues and discoveries that don’t revolve around drinking all night and partying all day. As a matter of fact, sightseeing in this wonderful and welcoming country is better with a clear mind and an open heart.

There really is nothing quite like a trip to Vietnam and all it has to offer. Plan to leave the booze and bar-hopping at home and instead, appreciate the beauty, culture, and traditions of Vietnam.

 

Sources

vietcetera.com – A Guide to Hanoi’s Districts: Navigating Vietnam’s Capital

afar.com – Culture, Art, and History in Da Nang and Hoi An

xotours.vn – Nightlife in Ho Chi Minh City: What to Do After Dark

vietnam-guide.com – 10 Best Nha Trang Dishes

saigonkisstours.com – 10 Truly Local Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh at Night

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