Ho Chi Minh City Book Street is a relatively new but highly popular attraction, offering a serene, intellectual, and aesthetically pleasing haven right in the heart of the bustling city. It’s a short, tree-shaded street transformed into a permanent, vibrant literary marketplace.
I. History & Culture
Concept and Opening: Officially opened in , the Book Street concept was developed to promote reading culture and provide a dedicated, beautiful space for book lovers. It is located on a short stretch of Nguyễn Văn Bình Street, which connects major city landmarks.
Literary Hub: The street is more than just a place to buy books; it’s a cultural center. It hosts regular events, book signings, exhibitions, and talks, serving as a gathering spot for local writers, students, and tourists.
Architectural Integration: The design is simple yet elegant: a pedestrian zone lined with over 20 specialized book stalls, small pavilions, and charming outdoor seating areas, all nestled under a canopy of old, lush trees. It’s designed to be a relaxing escape.
II. Visitor Experience (What to See and Do)
Browsing and Buying: Explore the diverse range of titles from leading Vietnamese publishers. While most books are in Vietnamese, you can find specialty sections for foreign language books, art books, and English-language titles, making it a great place to pick up a book on Vietnamese culture or history.
Café Culture: Enjoy a coffee or local refreshment at one of the small, stylish indoor or outdoor cafés along the street. It’s the perfect place to sit, read your new purchase, and people-watch.
Photo Opportunities: The street is highly photogenic, with colorful book displays, vintage-style post boxes, and unique decorations that change with the season or for special events (like Tết).
Souvenirs: Look for stationery, unique bookmarks, and small literary-themed handicrafts available at many of the stalls.
III. Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | Nguyễn Văn Bình Street, Bến Nghé Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. (Located between Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office). |
| Opening Hours | Generally 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily, with some vendors and cafés operating slightly longer hours. |
| Entrance Fee | FREE (VND 0). The street is a public pedestrian zone with no entry charge. |
| Phone Number | N/A (It is a public street/venue). Use the address for navigation. |
| Parking | Parking is often available for motorbikes and bicycles near the ends of the street. |
IV. Essential Travel Tips
Combine Your Visit: The Book Street is strategically located right next to two of the city’s most iconic French colonial landmarks: the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Central Post Office. It’s the perfect, relaxed stop between touring these sites.
Best Time: Visit in the morning for a quieter reading experience, or in the late afternoon/evening for a cooler atmosphere.
Atmosphere: It’s an oasis of calm; smoking is often prohibited on the street to maintain a pleasant environment for reading.
