Is Vietnam gay-friendly? | Intrepid Travel US

Vietnam is a relatively hassle-free destination for LGBTQI-travellers. In recent years, the country has made positive strides recognising the role of the LGBTQI community. Same-sex relationships and same-sex sexual acts are legal, and a ban on same-sex marriages was lifted in in January 2015. Viet Pride marches take place in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and gay characters appear in mainstream television and films. That said, it is far from a gay utopia. Vietnam remains a socially conservative nation and many continue to hide their sexuality from their families. And while same-sex marriages are no longer illegal, they are not legally recognised either.

Travellers, however, are typically exempt from social stigma and usually find Vietnam to be an extremely hospitable and welcoming destination. While displays of affection will likely draw disapproving glares, the same holds true for straight couples. As long as LGBTQI-travellers display some discretion and respect local culture, they will have no problem visiting Vietnam. Just don’t expect to see many rainbow flags hanging from gay-only venues – the low-key gay scene found in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi is largely limited to gay-friendly and gay-owned establishments.

Crossing the road in Ho Chi Minh City

Queer culture in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

The most populous city in Vietnam boasts a number of bars, restaurants, saunas and hotels that are gay-friendly. The largest gay club, Republic, features a drag show each Friday, live music on Saturdays and a large dance floor. Full Disclosure puts on raucous monthly themed-LGBT parties with live music, drag shows and DJs that go late into the night. Gay-friendly parties can also be found at La Fenetre Soleil (44 Ly Tu Trong). Check their Facebook page for details. Whiskey and Wares is another popular bar owned by American and Vietnamese partners that serves up whiskey, craft beer and some great cocktails in a small trendy space. Located on De Tham, it attracts a mix of gay and straight expats, locals and travellers.

A busy street in Hanoi.

Queer culture in Hanoi

The gay scene in the capital is more low-key than Ho Chi Minh City. GC Bar is the best-known and longest running gay bar in Hanoi. Located within walking distance from the Old Quarter, it gets packed on Friday and Saturday nights. Savage, an underground electronic music club, also hosts popular monthly gay nights.

The city boasts some well-located gay-friendly hotels, including Art Hotel, Trendy Hotel and Artisan Boutique Hotel. Viet Pride festivities are biggest in Hanoi, where LGBTQI film screenings, panel discussions and other various events accompany the annual bicycle pride parade.

Check Utopia Asia for a more complete and up-to-date list of LGBTQI-friendly establishments in Vietnam.

Click to return to Vietnam FAQs

Our Vietnam Tours

Vietnam Express Southbound

10 Days From 1012

Travel from historic Hanoi to modern Ho Chi Minh City. Tour down the Mekong, visit...

Queer culture in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Queer culture in Hanoi

Our Vietnam Tours

Vietnam Express Southbound

10 Days From 1012

Best of Vietnam & Cambodia

18 Days From 1807

Vietnam Family Holiday Comfort

13 Days From 1241

Vietnam Express Northbound

10 Days From 1012

Cycle Vietnam

15 Days From 1798

Scenic Vietnam

15 Days From 1424

Treasures of Vietnam

8 Days From 1199

Cambodian Traveller

9 Days From 846

Classic Vietnam

15 Days From 1989

Best of Cambodia & Vietnam

18 Days From 1900

Vietnam Family Holiday

13 Days From 1241

Vietnam Discovery

15 Days From 1020

Essential Vietnam

11 Days From 740

Explore Vietnam

11 Days From 710

Vietnam Family Holiday with Teenagers

9 Days From 1127

Cambodia Adventure

12 Days From 758

Cambodia Express

9 Days From 816

Vietnam Real Food Adventure

12 Days From 1632

Vietnam: Hike, Bike & Kayak

11 Days From 1169

Real Vietnam

15 Days From 957

Cambodia & Vietnam Discovery

13 Days From 2538

South East Asia Loop

30 Days From 3592

Best of Vietnam

20 Days From 2057

Epic Vietnam to Cambodia

22 Days From 1547

Essential Cambodia

10 Days From 537

Cambodia Discovery

12 Days From 859

Cambodia & Vietnam Experience

26 Days From 1773

Vietnam & Cambodia Explorer

22 Days From 1505

Real Cambodia

12 Days From 795

Vietnam Express Southbound - For Solo Travellers

10 Days From 1012

Vietnam & Cambodia Adventure

23 Days From 2210

Classic Cambodia & Vietnam

20 Days From 3307

Cycle Vietnam, Cambodia & Thailand

13 Days From 2066

Northern Vietnam Adventure

10 Days From 876

Vietnam & Cambodia Family Holiday

15 Days From 2283

Epic Cambodia to Vietnam

24 Days From 1552

South East Asia Unplugged

35 Days From 3022

Vietnam Family Holiday for solo parents

13 Days From 1305

Cycle Northern Vietnam