Marek, a 33-year-old Englishman, was taken aback when a Vietnamese colleague called him at 11 p.m. for a coffee. "I later learned that coffee was just an excuse. They wanted to chat and enjoy the cool night air," Marek explained.

Although aware of Vietnam's "nightlife" after living in Hanoi for over a year, this was the first time Marek had accepted a midnight coffee invitation. Back in London, shops typically close at 10 p.m., and people avoid going out late due to safety concerns. Entertainment is usually confined to bars and pubs, which also close around 11 p.m.

Arriving in Vietnam, Marek was shocked to see people still out at 1 or 2 a.m. in parks, on sidewalks, in convenience stores, and even along Long Bien Bridge, socializing and enjoying food and drinks. "Nightlife here isn't about partying. It's about connecting with each other, it's community-driven," he observed.

The bustling Quang Ba flower market and the crowded pho and banh mi stalls at midnight left him wondering, "When do Vietnamese people sleep?"

Semyon Kuprianov, a 37-year-old Russian, was similarly surprised by the sight of young people filling cafes throughout the night in Ho Chi Minh City, something unheard of in his native Moscow. Initially, Semyon assumed they worked for foreign companies. Later, observing the focused atmosphere filled with the sounds of turning pages and typing, he thought they were working overtime or studying.

"It turns out Vietnamese people enjoy changing their environment, seeking out places with others working late at night for motivation and focus," Semyon said.

Marek and Semyon aren't alone in their amazement at Vietnam's "night owl" culture. Hundreds of social media accounts feature videos showcasing Vietnam's diverse nightlife. Videos of people experiencing the Quang Ba flower market at 2 or 3 a.m., working in cafes, or strolling through Hanoi's Old Quarter at night attract millions of views. The keyword "Nightlife Vietnam" is also frequently searched by foreigners.

Hoang Nghia Dat, CEO of VNA Travel, noted a recent increase in international tourists booking night tours, in addition to daytime excursions. Popular Hanoi destinations include the Temple of Literature, Hoa Lo Prison, night markets, and the Old Quarter.

"Social media has also made it easier for foreigners to access nightlife activities beyond just bars and clubs," Dat said.

Hong Van, the owner of a sidewalk refreshment stall in the Quang An area of Tay Ho district, has seen a significant increase in foreign customers over the past month, now accounting for over 60% of her business, a phenomenon she's never witnessed before. "Many foreigners live in this area, but they rarely visited my stall. Now, many cycle by at night and stop for a drink, enjoying the West Lake breeze until late," she said.

Semyon Kuprianov, 37, from Russia, plays the guitar during a late-night cafe visit in Ho Chi Minh City, 2025. Photo: @thetaysam/TikTok

According to a 2024 survey by Internations, an expat network, Vietnam attracts visitors with its low cost of living, good job opportunities, beautiful scenery, and lively nightlife. They appreciate the blend of tourism, food, and entertainment, which allows them to discover the local culture.

Nguyen Tien Dat, Vice President of the Hanoi Tourism Association, pointed out that nightlife in many European countries is relatively quiet, with tourist areas often closing before 10 p.m. "Meanwhile, Vietnam's nightlife offers a diverse range of activities for visitors to experience," he said.

Another factor contributing to Vietnam's appealing nightlife is safety. "In 2023, an Internations survey ranked Vietnam among the top 15 best countries for expats, with high scores for safety and security," Dat added.

Joe (far left), from France, enjoys sidewalk tea with friends in Tay Ho ward, Hanoi, 9/2025. Photo: Courtesy of the subject

Geepee, a 27-year-old Nigerian, enjoys riding his motorbike at night to de-stress, having beers with friends in the Old Quarter, or working in cafes overnight. Coffee culture in his home country is vastly different, primarily a morning beverage. Colleagues rarely meet in the evenings, except for special occasions.

Nigeria's nightlife is typically more music-oriented, with live bands, DJs, and dancing. "But in Vietnam, night is a time of energy and joy. I love sipping coffee, chatting, or working in a 24-hour cafe," he said.

Joe, a Frenchman living in Hanoi's Tay Ho ward, cites the nightlife as one of the reasons he stays in Vietnam. In France, almost everything closes before 9 p.m., and the bar scene doesn't suit his lifestyle. In contrast, every evening in Vietnam, after work, he enjoys riding his motorbike to West Lake to chat with colleagues.

"Staying up late used to stress me out. But since being in Vietnam, going out at night has become a lifestyle and a joy," the 28-year-old said.

Nga Thanh