Pham Ngu Lao: Ho Chi Minh City’s Backpacker Hub

📍 Location: Pham Ngu Lao, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

A Vibrant Backpacker’s Paradise

Known simply as “the backpacker area”, the bustling streets around Pham Ngu Lao are the heart of budget travel in Ho Chi Minh City. This lively district, which also includes Bui Vien and De Tham Streets, is packed with affordable hostels, mid-range hotels, and even a few upscale accommodations, catering to all types of travelers.

Dining & Nightlife: From Street Food to Trendy Eateries

Food lovers will find endless options, from street vendors selling authentic Vietnamese dishes to international restaurants serving everything from pizza to sushi. At night, Bui Vien Street transforms into a party hotspot, reminiscent of Bangkok’s Khaosan Road, with bars, clubs, and makeshift pavement bars filled with travelers and locals enjoying cheap beer on tiny plastic stools.

A Daytime Retreat & a Nighttime Social Scene

By day, the green park along Pham Ngu Lao Street offers a quiet escape, with locals exercising and street performers entertaining passersby. As night falls, it becomes a popular social gathering spot, including for members of the city’s LGBTQ+ community.

Whether you’re looking for affordable stays, vibrant nightlife, or authentic street food, Pham Ngu Lao is a must-visit for those wanting to experience the energetic backpacker culture of Ho Chi Minh City.