Fun and entertainment Vietnam

The Institut Goethe is located close to the Temple of Literature, in two beautifully restored Art Deco colonial villas. German courses, conferences, exhibitions: cinema, video, painting, dance, theater... The Institut Goethe has a pleasant café and a peaceful patio where you can have lunch or dinner for a modest price and sample German gastronomy. In the evenings, a kebab vendor is on hand to satisfy the munchies of night owls who don't like phô..

Built between 1901 and 1914, it is a free interpretation of the Parisian model of the Palais Garnier. Architect: François-Charles Lagisquet. The building rests on 30,000 bamboo piles that stabilize the foundation of the building in a marshy terrain. Inside, the organization of the levels, the stage, the staircases and the entrance hall is that of the European theaters of the early 20th century. Classical dance performances, concerts. It is here that the foreign troops of passage in Viêt Nam come to perform.

Inaugurated in September 2003, the Institute aims to show the general public the richness of contemporary creation, both Vietnamese and French. The Art Deco building built in 1928 first housed the Imprimeries d'Extrême-Orient and then the newspaper Nhân Dân ("The People"). The Institute has a library, a media library and a 200-seat auditorium. For the calendar of events, visit the website.

A small, charming and popular café that allows you to take a break in the Sword Lake area. It serves a variety of coffees, both hot and iced, including of course the traditional egg coffee which is particularly good. Thirst-quenching drinks are also available, including a wide variety of iced teas. The place is ideal for observing the daily life of Hanoi's inhabitants, and you can mingle with them while having your drink on small stools on the terrace, or watching the passers-by from the second floor terrace.

A confidential address that's not easy to find... In fact, this café is located in the back of the Silklike silk store, and a small sign indicates its presence. Over several floors, you'll discover a traditional setting where antique furniture, subdued lighting, a family altar, flowers and bonsais create an old-fashioned, romantic atmosphere... The top floor features a terrace with a lovely view of Lake Hoàn Kiêm. A café with atypical charm. Worth a visit.

Quyen Van Minh fell in love with jazz more than thirty years ago while listening to the BBC. A self-taught musician, he taught himself the saxophone until he became the first jazz/saxophone teacher at the Hanoi Conservatory. He has created his own style, both close to Vietnamese tastes and familiar to Western ears, blending traditional Vietnamese musical themes with jazz. He performs almost every night with his students who will form the second generation of Vietnamese jazzmen.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, traditional Tuong theater performances take place. A few English subtitles provide a brief introduction to an unfamiliar universe, which will seduce the foreign spectator with the beauty of the costumes and the variety of masks, the bewitching character of the traditional music and gestures. This small theater is also home to the sublime My Village shows by the Lune Production company, alternating with the Hanoi Opera.

Nice nocturnal atmosphere for this bar, located near the Opera, and frequented by all the people who matter in the city: artists, creators, idlers and expatriates... The establishment and its owner have even been honoured by the New York Times. The setting is very seductive in the evening, all in chiaroscuro with an original and warm decoration, which favours intimacy. The menu is not very extensive (preferably after dinner). On the other hand, there is a wide choice of drinks, with or without alcohol. Ideal for a drink in the evening.

Very nice café that offers a large dining room and comfortable chairs in the back. Many come to enjoy wifi, accompanied by their computers... The cuisine is western. Breakfasts with a wide choice of coffees and pastries. Sandwiches, lasagna, quiches and salads at any time of the day. The establishment belongs to a chain whose roots are in Laos and which now extends to Southeast Asia (Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos). It promotes fresh and healthy food and fair trade

Very pleasant café-lounge which offers an artistic and muffled atmosphere. The colonial villa serves as an exhibition space for Vietnamese artists, photographers, sculptors, painters... Manzi aims to promote contemporary arts, inspire critical thinking and nurture a culture of debate through the collaboration of local artists and intellectuals. At any time of the day, a place to come and relax, work on your computer, meet people. The art space is financed by an art store and a café.

The Four Palaces(Tu Phu in Vietnamese) is a magnificent show inspired by the mediumistic rituals of traditional Vietnam and the veneration of the four Mother-Goddesses representing different elements (Mother-Goddess of the sky, the forest, the water and the earth). Bewitching music and songs, splendid colored costumes, lights highlighting the stage and the actors... The Four Palaces is a show that allows you to apprehend a part of the folk culture of the country and that transports you into another universe...

Nice café of the Công chain (see also the one in front of the cathedral). Characteristic of the chain is the importance given to the retro decor inspired by the recent history of the country. The address has the peculiarity of having welcomed President F. Holland during his official visit to Vietnam in September 2016. He took a short break during which he met with former Vietnamese students in France, including the mathematician Ngô Bao Châu, who was awarded the prestigious Fields Medal in 2010.

On the shores of the West Lake, near the Sheraton Hotel, a villa whose decor highlights the talent of Vietnamese craftsmen. Healthy food is the motto of the house run by holistic health specialist Pete Wilkes. The products, always fresh, come in particular from the farm. Perfect for breakfast (from 7am to 5pm), copious, original and delicious, or a sandwich, salad or burger break, accompanied by a fresh fruit juice (detox cure enthusiasts will be over the moon) or an espresso.

Superb pub-restaurant. Neo-industrial style, spacious volumes and large tables. Artistic and poetic nods to Magritte. Because Belgium and its quirky sense of humor are in the spotlight! A beautiful atmosphere, full of character, which allows you to appreciate the specialities: moules-frites, flammenkueche, waffles and chocolate fondant... The main thing is the beers: the menu offers dozens of European varieties, as well as craft beers. Cultural and/or musical events are often organized. Several addresses in town.

Magnificent show organized on the site of the Master's pagoda and inspired by the history of the place. More than a hundred artists sublimate a puppet theatre performance on the water. A lively outdoor show, with sound and light, to discover the cultural heritage of this region of northern Vietnam. Calendar of performances and bookings on the website, by phone, at the Hanoi office, which can arrange the transfer from/to Hanoi.

An institution. Founded in 1952, one of the most famous cafés in the capital. Nothing flashy, an atmosphere in chiaroscuro. You can enjoy your Vietnamese coffee sitting on a small stool. Each table is the place of a conciliation between regulars or customers coming from a distant country... The walls are decorated with paintings, drawings and collages of famous painters such as Bui Xuân Phai (1920-1988), Tô Ngoc Vân (1906-1954), Nguyên Sang (1923-1988)... In the past, during the lean times, they paid the owner with their works. Several addresses in town.

Before or after your hike. The café of the Sapa O'Chau association (in the Hmông language, O'Chau means thank you), opened in 2007. Coffee, tea, pancakes, fruit juices, mulled wine, but above all an excellent place to get information and discover the region in a spirit of solidarity travel. The association offers hikes and excursions in the region, as well as homestays in Hmông ethnic villages. There's also an exhibition and sales area showcasing the handicraft traditions of the Hmông ethnic group.

Traditional music show from the south known as đờn ça tài tử, inscribed since 2013 on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. A musical art with scholarly and popular roots, inspired by the life of peasants in the Mekong Delta. Music and songs performed during festivals and celebrations. Performers use a wide variety of instruments: moon-shaped lute, two-stringed violin, sixteen-stringed zither, pear-shaped lute, percussion instrument, monochord and bamboo flute.

Opened at the end of 2023, or rather reopened after a complete renovation, this café offers a seductive vintage setting: mosaic tiles, ship's wood for the pillars, brick walls, photos of Hanoi of yesteryear... The coffee served is of the highest quality, sourced in Vietnam and roasted on site. Egg coffee, of course, but also the famous salted coffee, espresso, teas, etc. A wide choice of breakfasts and pastries. Craft beers and cocktails are on the menu for the late afternoon. A charming place to stroll.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, this little artery nicknamed the "beer street" is the liveliest spot in the district in the evening. One bar-restaurant follows another, and the terraces are packed with locals and young tourists alike. Street vendors, mobile karaoke - there's plenty to keep you entertained. The prices are quite high, but you'll find much cheaper beers in the establishments in the surrounding streets. During the day, it's all quiet and you can take photos of the old buildings.

Close to the Old Quarter, on the street leading from the old gate of the Thang Long citadel, this bar is a place to discover. With its hushed ambience, subdued lighting and chic, modern decor, you can sit in the dining room or at the bar to enjoy classic and original cocktails. The emphasis is on local produce, with which they create unique elixirs. The wine list is limited but of high quality. Drinks can be accompanied by cheese and charcuterie boards. Bands perform regularly. Recommended.

Located south of Lake Hoàn Kiêm, you'll need a bit of cunning to flush out this bar in the speakeasy tradition. To get there, take a brick tunnel leading to a blue door... Inside, you'll discover a charming venue, attentive staff and, above all, a comprehensive cocktail menu. Old Fashioned, Negroni or the signature cocktail, the choice is vast. Live music on Sundays. Chic but affordable.

A confidential address, discreet but very well placed, opposite St. Joseph's Cathedral. Housed in a typical old Hanoi house, upstairs and under the roofs, accessible via a concealed entrance, you can feel the patina of time enhanced by a warm, intimate decor. The French-style bar invites you to enjoy an aperitif or one of the excellent cocktails on offer... The unusual, old-fashioned setting alone is worth a visit.

Here's an original establishment to discover. You can enter through a narrow alleyway, but more recently the café has opened a more accessible door onto Tran Quang Khai Street. The place is spread over several floors, each with a successful urban decor featuring mechanical elements (sidecar, motorcycle, tires) but also superb murals. You can come and enjoy this peaceful place for a coffee, a snack or in the early evening for a beer or an aperitif. Light meals available for lunch. Friendly welcome.

In the heart of the Old Quarter, finding this establishment is no easy task, situated in a maze of alleys in the purest Hanoi tradition. However, a notice board placed outside the bar makes it easy to find. When you enter the bar, the world changes and you're transported back to the days of Prohibition. Excellent cocktails, cigar cellar, hushed atmosphere, discreet music, attentive staff... A pleasant place to have a drink after dinner. Superb.

This is an iconic spot in Hanoi. A popular spot for tourists, photographers and Instagramers, it lets you enjoy coffee, cold drinks and lunch while immortalizing your stay in Hanoi thanks to one of the city's icons, the Long Biên Bridge. The Serein Café & Lounge boasts one of the finest views of the bridge. The various terraces allow you to appreciate the bustle of life around the bridge. On Saturday evenings, live bands provide even more entertainment. High prices.

This rooftop bar in the heart of District 1 offers a friendly, relaxed atmosphere and affordable prices. You'll have to climb four flights of stairs to reach the place. The setting is pleasant, with colorful graphics and an atmosphere reminiscent of a skate park. Several local craft beers are on the menu, as well as spirits, snacks and burgers. DJs and musicians perform regularly.

Located in the heart of the Old Town, on the pleasant little square at the gateway to the Bà Mu temple, Lenco is the perfect place to relax. The small terrace is pleasant to sit out on, and the room is decorated with care. The menu is limited, but the cocktails on offer are of excellent quality. Specialties include cocktails made with artichoke liqueur and infused spirits. Classic cocktails, beers and wines by the glass or bottle are also available. Run by a young, dynamic team.

In the purest tradition of Prohibition speakeasies, you'll have to find this cocktail bar on the second floor of a small alley in the old town. Here's a hint: it's close to the Mexican restaurant... The place is superb, with a neat decor and subdued lighting. It offers traditional and innovative mezcals and tequilas. The team will explain the different nuances and prepare delicious cocktails according to your preferences.

Café des Stagiaires is a new riverside bar-restaurant in Thao Dien. The atmosphere is warm and the decor stylish, with vinyls on the wall, Keith Harring illustrations, subdued lighting... On the menu: French and Belgian dishes, craft beers, cocktails... Best of all, the place boasts a superb rooftop terrace with a superb view of the city. Regular events include concerts, aperitif get-togethers... To discover.

TNR Saigon is what's known as a dive bar, a small, eclectic neighborhood bar where local youth gather. Since 2008, TNR has been bringing together those who make up Saigon: young hipsters, artists, skaters, tattoo artists, the LGBTQ+ community, hip-hop fans... The place features graffiti on the walls, old telephones hanging from the ceiling, dimmed multicolored lights... Excellent cocktails and a warm welcome. Non-commercial music, with the occasional DJ adding to the ambience. And for fun, there's a pool table and table soccer. A unique place.

In a setting inspired by the atmosphere of Prohibition-era speakeasies, Vintage Culture Saigon is the city's first bar with a concept combining craft cocktails and immersive music listening through playlists and carefully selected vinyl selections. The wall behind the bar is filled with 33t records. The cocktails, both classic and original, are made with quality spirits. You'll have to find this little gem, hidden away on the^3rd floor of number 39A... A little marvel for the discerning connoisseur.

The Rabbit Hole is an Irish pub located near the well-known La Véranda hotel. Step into the little alleyway and you'll discover a bar where the atmosphere is festive and lively, especially during sporting events. It's a must for fans of soccer, rugby, beer and good times. The pub offers a wide selection of beers and cocktails. Traditional Irish and international dishes are on offer. If you're looking for a bar where you can spend a pleasant evening with friends, the Rabbit Hole is the place to be.

French address. Very friendly establishment, with a warm décor dominated by wood and brick. In the garden, covered terrace. Bistro cuisine with a French touch: burgers, roast chicken, mussels / chips (on Thursdays), quiches, wood-fired pizzas. Mainly western clientele in this area of the Lac de l'Ouest where many expatriates live. Good to finish the evening over a drink and enjoy the pool table.

Welcome to Phu Quoc Sailing Club - the perfect beach destination, the ideal place to sample succulent local and international food, while enjoying a wide choice of beverages. From fruit smoothies to Ca-Phe Sua Da (Vietnam's famous iced coffee) and freshly picked coconut. Situated right by the sea, the location is the ideal place to relax during the day and unwind by the pool or on the beach with a refreshing cocktail. Phu Quoc's must-visit beach club.

Located in the chic restaurant district, this lounge bar has several qualities to offer. First of all, the setting is elegant, with dimmed lights, long bar and soft music before the arrival of the DJ around 9pm. The cocktails offered are excellent, and you can even take advantage of the happy hour between 5 and 8 pm. Habibi means "my love" in Arabic, so we won't be surprised that Saigon has also succumbed to the shisha fashion... A recommended place to wait for your table if you dine in one of the many establishments on the street.

This artisanal brewery is a popular address. The vats testify to this... The setting is very nice - there is space - and convivial, especially the terrace. The large wooden tables welcome visitors. The beers use top quality ingredients, with a wide choice of natural flavours. The menu is superb, with an original, varied and high quality offer, where the dishes happily combine East and West. Spring rolls are served alongside hamburgers/fries. Brunch on Sundays.

Located a stone's throw from the Ben Thanh market and tucked away in an inner courtyard, the Biker Shield Bistro is well worth a visit. This bar-restaurant is housed in a former French colonial residence. Run by motorcycle enthusiasts, the establishment exhibits a number of post-war vintage machines. Local craft beers and Western cuisine are served. On the menu: amuse-bouches, hamburgers, seafood, fish & chips... Prices are reasonable. Upstairs, there's a store selling quality motorcycle accessories.

You enter a stairwell that is not very pleasant, but on the ^second floor you discover one of the trendiest bars in the city with its refined industrial decoration, which enhances a beautiful convivial space. The atmosphere and the evening chiaroscuro are very pleasant, the barman is friendly and very professional, and the choice of homemade cocktails is very diverse. Take advantage of the happy hour (Monday to Saturday, from 5pm to 8pm) to have a good time around billiards. The establishment serves a brasserie-style cuisine: cheese plates, seafood...

An excellent atmosphere, with a remarkable Latino orchestra and singers who take it in turns to ensure a memorable evening. Housed in a vaulted cellar, the place is warm and well-frequented, whether by Saigon's wealthy class or by visiting tourists, businessmen... Accessible and family-friendly, for all ages, this establishment is well-maintained in a climate of perfect security. Customers generally make an effort to dress well, and the coquettishness of Saigon's women does not go unnoticed.

Enter through a corridor that doesn't look like much and you will be surprised... Very well located on a nice green rooftop overlooking Nguyên Huê street, this bar-lounge offers a superb view on the pedestrian artery of downtown. A very pleasant place to have a drink in the evening, later in the night or very early in the morning... Mixed clientele that harmoniously mixes expatriates, locals and tourists. Musical events are often organized and prices remain reasonable, even if they are a little higher than the average.

A small but very pleasant establishment for lunch or dinner, with a good international cuisine (pasta dishes, Caesar salad and generous burgers) and a chic decoration that creates a nice atmosphere. The restaurant is famous for its steaks and grilled meats. The desserts are not bad either. Also for going out in the evening, the bar offers a pleasant atmosphere. Nice staff and nice drink menu. Special mention for the small room upstairs which creates an even more intimate atmosphere. Recommended by the Petit Futé.

Australian management. Hearty food: burgers, pasta... During rugby matches, lively evenings in the bar and many liters of beer drunk. Internet access, as well as numerous services: mini-hotel, motorcycle rental... Also, tours of the battlefields around Vung Tàu where Australian troops fought in the Vietnam War. Soccer broadcasts and concerts by local artists.

Superbly located on the ^24th floor of the Hotel Des Arts, the Social Club is one of the city's most popular venues. It has a chic, casual atmosphere with music provided by local and international DJs. Excellent cocktails, top-notch international cuisine and an electric atmosphere on weekends. The view of Ho Chi Minh City is simply spectacular. Brunch is regularly organized on Sundays. Elegant attire is required and reservations are often essential if you wish to enjoy this unique place.

A lively meeting place frequented by travelers from all over the world, the Dive Bar is the perfect place to enjoy Hôi An's nightlife. Enjoy cocktails, spirits and a wide selection of beers. Also chicha. For lunch, dinner or any time of day, the establishment offers a selection of local and international specialties. With excellent music, one open-air area, another that favors intimacy and deep sofas, the Dive Bar is an ideal place to relax...

Store concept that allows you to discover Marou products. The space is vast and convivial. It provides an understanding of chocolate making and shows the machines used. The processes used, 100% artisanal, ecological and creative, have enabled Marou to be elected the best chocolate maker in the world by the New York Times. You come and go for a hot chocolate with cinnamon and for absolutely delicious pastries that highlight the qualities and the powerful yet subtle taste of chocolate. Address highly recommended.