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Life in Saigon moves fast. Most days, we rush from one place to another without giving ourselves time to slow down, to notice the city, or to enjoy the small things that make us feel calm. Still, whenever I find a little free time, I choose to spend it searching for English bookstores with a unique atmosphere around Ho Chi Minh City.
There is something deeply comforting about stepping into a quiet space filled with books, breathing in the smell of printed pages, and letting stories carry you somewhere else for a while. In this guide, I want to share a few places I truly love, along with what makes each of them special. I hope they will bring you the same sense of peace and inspiration they bring me.
Honorable Mentions for Popular English Bookstores
Before heading to the quieter corners of the city, I want to briefly mention a few popular English bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City that many readers may already know. Fahasa and Phuong Nam are the two biggest bookstore chains in Vietnam. Both offer large collections of domestic and international titles, making them reliable choices if you are simply looking for variety in an English bookstore setting.
Another familiar name is Hai An Bookstore near the Saigon Zoo in District 1, often appreciated for its slightly different concept compared to traditional big brand bookstores. These English bookstores are great when you need options and convenience. However, if you are searching for a more personal experience, unique spaces, and a slower pace, the English bookstores below are the ones I will share with you about today.
Top 5 English Bookstore with Unique Vibe in Ho Chi Minh City
1. InBook English and French International Bookstore
English Bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: 25A Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Saigon Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 20:00 every day
Inbook feels less like a typical bookstore and more like a modern library designed for readers who enjoy taking their time. The space is modern and calm, with several corners where you can sit down and read a few pages before deciding whether a book belongs with you.
The collection of international books is rich and thoughtfully selected. The store focuses mainly on non fiction and classic literature, and it also carries both French and English titles. One detail I love is the handwritten notes placed in front of certain books, offering a short introduction that helps you connect with the story even before opening it.
Many visitors speak highly of the librarian, who is warm, attentive, and incredibly knowledgeable. You can describe the kind of book you are looking for, and she often finds the right one in no time. Regular visitors have even formed a small book club here, turning Inbook into a quiet community for people who truly love reading.
2. The Hidden Spine Bookshop
English Bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: 58/15 Pham Ngoc Thach Street, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 21:00 every day
The Hidden Spine Bookshop is an English bookstore in Ho Chi Minh City that feels like a quiet pause in the middle of busy District 1. The space is bright and warm, with a cozy layout that makes you want to take your time and explore slowly. The welcoming service adds to the calm and intimate atmosphere.
Besides books, this English bookstore also offers postcards, making it a lovely place to find small souvenirs. The book selection is more limited and often leans toward nostalgic or familiar titles rather than newly released ones. Still, that is part of its charm. This is a place to enjoy the moment, move at your own pace, and reconnect with a softer side of yourself.
3. Page of Passion Bookstore
English Bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: Apartment building 35 Nguyen Van Trang Street, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 09:00 – 22:00 every day
Hidden inside an old apartment building, Page of Passion is a vintage style English bookstore in Ho Chi Minh City that feels timeless. The green and brown tones, along with the soft lighting, create a space where everything feels calm and unhurried. The addition of coffee makes it even easier to stay awhile.
Although it is a lesser known English bookstore, the collection is surprisingly diverse. You may find international fiction, unique titles, or books you were not expecting to see. Many visitors enjoy reading the book introductions, ordering a coffee, and slowly finishing a few chapters on site.
Two quiet shop cats live here and they’re also calm like this place, reach them softly and they’ll make friends with you. A thoughtful detail worth mentioning is that the bookstore helps cover part of the parking fee if you make a purchase. It is a small act, but it shows the care behind this lovely place.
4. Little Cats Bookstore
English Bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: 2 Nguyen Van Binh Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 21:00 every day
Little Cats Bookstore is an open air English bookstore located on Nguyen Van Binh Book Street, one of the most well known reading spots in the city. The books here follow a cute and lighthearted concept, mixed with classic English titles that are easy to enjoy. You will also find bookmarks, postcards, and small book related accessories.
What truly makes this English bookstore special is the staff. They are warm, enthusiastic, and genuinely helpful. Beyond recommending books, I still recall the day they assisted me with directions and even helped finding good photo angles. The prices are reasonable, and the overall experience feels friendly and personal, which makes Little Cats Bookstore a joyful stop for any book lover.
5. A Little Studio Coffee & More
English Bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City
- Address: 170 Nguyen Dinh Chinh Street, Ward 11, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 08:00 – 22:00 every day
A Little Studio is a small English bookstore in Ho Chi Minh City that combines books, coffee, and souvenirs in one thoughtfully designed space. The interior has a vintage and slightly whimsical feel, almost like stepping into a tiny storybook.
The book collection is not very large, but this English bookstore truly shines when it comes to gifting. If I am looking for a book to give to a friend, this is often my first choice. The staff take great care in wrapping books, choosing cards, and writing messages with beautiful handwriting.
In addition to books, they offer drinks and small souvenir items that are cute and affordable. Even with a limited selection, the experience feels warm and sincere, which is why A Little Studio deserves a place on this list.
More Lowkey & Local Experience with Jackfruit Adventure
Finding a hidden gem in a huge, bustling city like Saigon is such a rewarding feeling. I hope fellow bookworms and lovely readers of Jackfruit Blog enjoy spending time at these English bookstores from my list. Even though short-form content is winning right now, I still believe that quality writing on paper will always stand the test of time.
If you’re looking for a more low-key, local experience in Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss our Saigon City Cycling Tour. The journey takes you through untold stories of the city and offers a glimpse into Saigon’s Chinese community. Book with us to uncover more hidden doors in the heart of Saigon.
