Strolling Through Nguyen Van Binh Book Street – A Journey into Knowledge in the Heart of Saigon
1. General Introduction
- Address: Nguyen Van Binh Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Entrance fee: Free
Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is one of Saigon’s most unique cultural destinations. Stretching about 144 meters, this pedestrian street was inaugurated in January 2016 and quickly became a vibrant hub for book lovers. With its cozy bookstores, charming cafés, and creative exhibitions, it has become a place where culture and community meet.
More than just a paradise for readers, the street also carries cultural significance. It was named after Bishop Nguyen Van Binh – a respected intellectual and Catholic leader – symbolizing the harmony between knowledge, spirituality, and the city’s rich history.
2. Historical Background
Over the years, the street has carried many different names, including Hongkong, Cardis, and Nguyen Hau, before officially becoming Nguyen Van Binh Street in 2000. Each name marks a chapter in Saigon’s evolving history — from colonial times to the modern era — reflecting the city’s resilience and cultural growth.
3. Layout and Structure
Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is divided into three main areas, each offering a unique experience for visitors:
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Book Stalls: Featuring over 20 booths from major Vietnamese publishers such as Kim Dong, Tre, Nha Nam, Phuong Nam, and Alphabooks. Here, visitors can find a vast collection of books spanning literature, history, culture, science, and more.
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Exhibition Zone: A space for showcasing rare and antique books, as well as hosting author-reader meetups and various cultural events that breathe life into the literary atmosphere.
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Book Cafés: Cozy coffee shops scattered along the street invite guests to enjoy a cup of coffee while immersing themselves in the tranquil rhythm of reading.
Located right next to the Notre-Dame Cathedral and Saigon Central Post Office, the street is part of the city’s cultural heart, making it an unmissable stop for both locals and tourists.
4. Parking and Transportation
Nguyen Van Binh Book Street is a pedestrian-only zone — vehicles, including bicycles and motorbikes, are not allowed inside. Visitors can park at nearby lots next to the Central Post Office or Notre-Dame Cathedral, both just a short walk away.
| Parking location | Opening hours |
| Ho Chi Minh City Youth Cultural House | 6:00 – 22:00 |
| The corner of Diamond Plaza | 9:30 – 22:00 |
| The corner of Nguyen Van Binh and Hai Ba Trung streets | 8:00 – 22:00 |
| Le Duan Street Parking Lot | 7:00 – 23:00 |
| The corner of Nguyen Van Binh Street and Cong Xa Paris Street | 8:00 – 22:00 |
5. Highlights and Experiences
5.1. Buy and Read Books
With thousands of titles available, this book street is heaven for literature enthusiasts. Each bookstore has its own design and style, with creative displays that sometimes wrap around tree trunks or extend into the walkway — creating a cozy and inviting environment for readers of all ages. You might spot children deeply absorbed in comic books, students browsing through foreign novels, or readers enjoying their favorite stories under the shade of tall trees.
5.2. Capture Instagram-Worthy Photos
Nguyen Van Binh isn’t just about books — it’s also one of Saigon’s most photogenic spots. The tree-lined street, warm sunlight, and colorful book displays make it perfect for taking creative and aesthetic photos. Thanks to its proximity to landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office, the area’s charm draws not only tourists but also couples taking pre-wedding photos.
5.3. Enjoy Coffee and Books
Nothing compares to sipping a warm cup of coffee while turning the pages of a good book in the heart of bustling Saigon. Amid the city’s vibrant rhythm, Nguyen Van Binh Book Street offers a peaceful escape — a place where time seems to slow down, and the joy of reading comes alive once again.
ACCOMMODATION SUGGESTIONS
If you intend to stay in Ho Chi Minh City, you should choose accommodations near the center and with good services, for example:
+ Acnos Hotel Ben Thanh: 20 Nguyen Thi Nghia, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.
+ Acnos Grand Hotel: 82 Cach Mang Thang Tam, Xuan Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City.