Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Historic Site in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Steffen Schmitz

Nguyen Hue Street is one of the top attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its lively pedestrian promenade, modern cafés, and constant flow of people enjoying the city's dynamic atmosphere. This central avenue is a great place to visit on a walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City, offering a spacious, tree-lined walkway that becomes especially vibrant in the evenings. This spot is one of the must-see places in Ho Chi Minh City for travellers wanting to experience the urban spirit of modern Saigon.

At its northern end stands the iconic Ho Chi Minh City Hall, officially called the People's Committee Building. Completed in 1909, this elegant French-colonial structure serves as a striking reminder of the city's layered past. Although the building is not open to the public, its ornate façade, clock tower, and warm yellow tones make it one of the most photographed landmarks in the city.

History and Significance of Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Things to See and Do in Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall
How to Get to Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Practical Tips on Visiting Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Where to Stay close to Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Add a Is Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall Worth Visiting?
FAQs for Visiting Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Nearby Attractions to Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

History and Significance of Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Nguyen Hue Street has long been a central boulevard in Saigon's development. Originally a canal built during the 18th century, it later evolved into a major thoroughfare under French rule. In recent decades, it was redesigned into a pedestrian-friendly promenade that hosts festivals, public art displays, and nightly gatherings of locals and visitors.

Ho Chi Minh City Hall, constructed between 1902 and 1909, showcases classical French-colonial architecture with ornate sculptures, arched windows, and a distinctive clock tower. Originally named Hôtel de Ville, it served as the headquarters of the municipal government during the colonial era. Today, it remains the administrative centre for the city, standing as a symbol of both historical legacy and modern governance.

Things to See and Do in Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Visitors can stroll along Nguyen Hue’s wide pedestrian walkway, stopping at gardens, fountains, and benches to people-watch or enjoy street performances. The promenade is especially lively at night, when families, couples, and street artists gather to enjoy the cooler air.

The square facing the City Hall offers one of the best photo spots in Ho Chi Minh City, especially at sunset when the building's warm tones glow against the sky. The statue of Ho Chi Minh in front of the City Hall adds further significance to the area.

Shops, cafés, bubble-tea bars, and rooftop lounges line both sides of the street, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the city’s energy.

How to Get to Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Most visitors arrive via Tan Son Nhat International Airport, located about 25-30 minutes from District 1. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) on Booking.com.

Those arriving by rail at Saigon Railway Station can reach Nguyen Hue Street easily by taxi or bus. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car or taxi is straightforward, with drop-off points along the surrounding streets. Parking nearby can be limited during busy hours, but the area is designed for easy pedestrian access.

Practical Tips on Visiting Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Suggested tips: Visit in the evening for a lively atmosphere and cooler temperatures.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon to night, especially on weekends.
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: Open at all times; City Hall exterior always visible.
Official website: Not available
How long to spend: 1-2 hours.
Accessibility: Fully accessible; smooth, wide pathways ideal for all visitors.
Facilities: Cafés, restaurants, shops, public seating, and fountains.
Photography tip: Stand facing the City Hall from the centre of the promenade for a perfect symmetrical shot.
Guided tours: Often included in general Saigon city tours.
Nearby food options: Plenty of cafés, street-food stalls, and modern eateries surrounding the boulevard.

Where to Stay close to Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Nguyen Hue Street is surrounded by excellent accommodation options. Consider Rex Hotel Saigon, an iconic landmark with rooftop views of the boulevard. Another great choice is The Reverie Saigon, offering luxury rooms right on the promenade.

Add a Is Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall Worth Visiting?

Yes, this vibrant boulevard and its iconic City Hall are absolutely worth visiting. Together, they capture the essence of Ho Chi Minh City-its historic charm, modern energy, and lively social spirit-making the area one of the city's most memorable highlights.

FAQs for Visiting Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Is the Ho Chi Minh City Hall open to the public?
No, the interior is not open, but the exterior can be viewed and photographed.

Is Nguyen Hue Street closed to traffic?
Yes, it is a pedestrian-only promenade.

Are there events held on Nguyen Hue Street?
Yes, festivals, performances, and public celebrations take place regularly.

Nearby Attractions to Nguyen Hue Street & Ho Chi Minh City Hall

Saigon Opera House: A magnificent French-colonial theatre nearby.
Saigon Central Post Office: A beautifully preserved architectural landmark.
Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh): A charming pedestrian lane of bookshops and cafés.
Vincom Center: A major shopping and dining destination.
Independence Palace: A key historical site just a short walk away.

The Nguyen Hue Street and City Hall appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)!

Moira & Andy

Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!

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