Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Where Saigon's energy gathers nightly.
🥉 Recommended
4.7 ⭐ (800)
Introduction
Nguyen Hue Walking Street (Phố đi bộ Nguyễn Huệ) is a wide, modern pedestrian promenade located in the center of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Stretching from the People's Committee Building to the Saigon River, it serves as a central public space for city events, gatherings, and nightly strolls. Its significance lies in its transformation from a major traffic artery into a primary social and cultural hub for residents and visitors alike.
Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Building
Dominating the north end of the street, this elegant French colonial structure, often called City Hall, is one of the city's most distinguished buildings. While you cannot enter, its ornate facade provides a grand backdrop for the entire promenade, especially when illuminated at night.
The Apartment Cafe at 42 Nguyen Hue
This nine-story residential block has been famously repurposed, with nearly every apartment converted into a unique cafe, boutique shop, or workshop. Visitors can choose a cafe and head to its balcony for an elevated view of the street's activity. Be aware that you may need to pay a small fee to use the building's old elevator.
Statue of President Ho Chi Minh
Situated in a park fronting the People's Committee Building, this bronze monument depicts the former leader affectionately known as "Bác Hồ" (Uncle Ho) with children. It is a point of national pride and a common meeting spot at the start of the walking street.
Musical Water Fountains
The street features two large, circular fountain complexes that come to life in the evenings. Synchronized with lights and music, these fountains provide a cooling spectacle and a popular play area for children on warm nights.
Getting there
From Ben Thanh Market (approx. 1 km):
🚗 Taxi: 5-10 mins | 30,000 - 50,000 VND ~ $1.20 - $2.00 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 5-10 mins | 25,000 - 45,000 VND ~ $1.00 - $1.80 USD
🚶 Walking: 10-15 mins. It is a straightforward and safe walk through the city center.
⚠️ Getting a taxi or ride-hailing car directly on the promenade during vehicle-free hours is impossible. You will need to walk to a parallel street like Dong Khoi or Pasteur for pickup. Walking is often the easiest way to arrive and depart.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
The street is a public space and accessible 24/7.
- Monday - Thursday: Open to regular traffic.
- Friday - Sunday: Closed to vehicle traffic from approximately 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, creating the pedestrian-only zone.
- Note: Hours can be extended for public holidays and special events.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Admission: Free for all visitors.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- The ideal time is after 7:00 PM on a Saturday or Sunday. The weather is cooler, the buildings and fountains are illuminated, and the street is filled with local families and tourists, creating a lively atmosphere. For the most unique experience, visit during the Tet (Lunar New Year) holiday to see the spectacular annual Flower Festival.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for 1 to 2 hours to walk the full length of the street, enjoy the atmosphere, and perhaps visit a cafe in the Apartment Cafe building.
Tips from locals
Local tips
📸 For the best photograph of the entire street, head to a cafe on a higher floor of the Apartment Cafe building. The balconies offer a commanding view of the promenade with the impressive People's Committee Building in the background.
🥤 While there are many high-end cafes, you can also enjoy the street like a local by purchasing a "cà phê sữa đá" (iced coffee with milk) or "trà tắc" (kumquat tea) from a nearby street vendor for a fraction of the price and finding a public bench to people-watch.
💡 Explore the side streets and alleyways branching off Nguyen Hue. These smaller roads are full of interesting restaurants, old apartments, and hidden bars that offer a different pace from the wide-open main street.
Be aware
🛹 The wide, smooth surface of the street is popular with local youths on skateboards, rollerblades, and hoverboards, especially in the evenings. Be aware of your surroundings as they can move quickly through the crowds.
🛍️ Street vendors selling light-up toys, balloons, and snacks can be quite persistent. A polite "không, cảm ơn" (no, thank you) is usually enough to signal you are not interested.
👛 As with any crowded area, be mindful of your personal belongings. Keep your phone, wallet, and bag secure, particularly when watching street performances or navigating through the most congested parts of the promenade.
FAQs
Is there an entrance fee for Nguyen Hue Walking Street?
No, visiting the street is completely free for everyone.
When is Nguyen Hue Walking Street closed to traffic?
It is typically closed to vehicles and open only for pedestrians on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, from around 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM.
What is the famous apartment building with all the cafes?
That is No. 42 Nguyen Hue Street, commonly referred to as the "Apartment Cafe".
How long does it take to walk the entire street?
A casual stroll from one end to the other takes about 15-20 minutes, but most people spend 1-2 hours enjoying the atmosphere.
Is it better to visit during the day or at night?
Night is definitely the best time to visit. It's cooler, the surrounding buildings are lit up, the fountains are active, and the street is full of energy.
Can I find parking nearby?
Yes, there are several paid underground parking garages nearby, including at the Vincom Center, Saigon Centre, and Times Square buildings.
What is the Nguyen Hue Flower Street?
This is the name given to the street during the annual Tet (Lunar New Year) festival when it is decorated with massive, elaborate flower displays.
Are there public toilets available?
Yes, there are public restroom facilities available. Many of the surrounding cafes and restaurants also have restrooms for customers.
Is the street wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the promenade is flat and paved, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers.
What is the large building at the end of the street?
That is the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Building, also known as City Hall.
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