Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Street in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
CC BY-SA 3.0 / trungydang

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is one of the best places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City, stretching from the Saigon River to the grand People's Committee Building. With wide, tree-lined walkways, fountains, and a park-like central promenade, it is a highlight of any walking tour of Ho Chi Minh City. Day or night, the boulevard hums with life as travellers and locals gather to stroll, relax, dine, and enjoy the energy of the city.

Towering skyscrapers, street performers, lively cafés, and family-friendly open spaces give Nguyen Hue its distinctive personality. At night, the illuminated buildings and colourful fountain shows turn the street into a vibrant outdoor stage, enhancing its appeal as a social hub and celebration venue during holidays and festivals.

History and Significance of Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Originally a canal during the 19th century, the area was filled in and eventually transformed into a grand boulevard during the French colonial era. Known at various times as Charner Boulevard, it developed into one of Saigon’s most prominent streets, linking the riverfront with the city’s administrative heart.

The modern pedestrian street opened in 2015, designed as a communal gathering space reflecting the youthful spirit of Ho Chi Minh City. Today, it plays host to major events, seasonal flower festivals, and public celebrations, serving as a cultural and civic centre for residents and visitors.

Things to See and Do in Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Walking the full length of Nguyen Hue reveals a mix of public art, monuments, and open spaces perfect for photos or people-watching. The lotus-shaped fountain offers hourly light and water shows in the evenings, while the statue of Ho Chi Minh stands proudly in front of the People's Committee Building.

The street is lined with cafés, rooftop bars, and restaurants, offering everything from Vietnamese iced coffee to late-night snacks. Skyscrapers provide impressive city views, especially after dark. Festivals, parades, and street performers frequently animate the boulevard, making each visit unique.

Nearby attractions include the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, just south of the People's Committee Building, and the historic Opera House to the north of the lotus fountain.

How to Get to Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Visitors typically arrive in Ho Chi Minh City via Tan Son Nhat International Airport, with taxis and shuttle services providing direct access to District 1. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) on Booking.com.

For those arriving by train, Saigon Railway Station connects easily to the city centre by bus or taxi. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Travelling by car is straightforward, with drop-off areas around Ton Duc Thang Street near the riverfront or close to the People’s Committee Building. Parking garages and metered spaces are available nearby.

Practical Tips on Visiting Nguyen Hue Walking Street

  • Suggested tips: Visit in the evening for cooler weather and illuminated fountain shows.
  • Best time to visit: After sunset when the street becomes lively.
  • Entrance fee: Free
  • Opening hours: 24/7
  • Official website: Not available
  • How long to spend: 1-2 hours or longer if dining or exploring nearby attractions.
  • Accessibility: Flat, wide walkways suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.
  • Facilities: Benches, shaded areas, nearby cafés, restrooms inside local malls.
  • Photography tip: Capture the People’s Committee Building from the fountain for the best perspective.
  • Guided tours: Available as part of Ho Chi Minh City walking tours.
  • Nearby food options: Plenty of restaurants, cafés, street food vendors, and rooftop bars along the surrounding streets.

Where to Stay close to Nguyen Hue Walking Street

For easy access to the boulevard, Rex Hotel Saigon offers classic charm and rooftop views. Another excellent option is Sedona Suites Ho Chi Minh City, located within walking distance of both the walking street and major attractions.

Add a Is Nguyen Hue Walking Street Worth Visiting?

Yes, Nguyen Hue Walking Street is absolutely worth visiting. With its lively atmosphere, beautiful architecture, and easy access to key landmarks, it captures the essence of modern Ho Chi Minh City and offers a memorable experience day or night.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.5 (1,647)

Nguyễn Đình Chiểu Walking Street sits along the southern bank of the Perfume River in Huế and offers a compact, pedestrian-only riverside promenade ideal for an evening stroll; visitors praise sunset and river views, LED-lit bridges, a relaxed, park-like atmosphere with local families and street performers, and small stalls and cafés selling snacks, drinks, art and souvenirs, while some note it’s quieter now than it once was but still good for people-watching, boat rides, and casual nighttime wandering.

Judy J
5 months ago
"Nguyễn Đình Chiểu Walking Street in Huế is a hidden gem that offers a delightful mix of local charm, culture, and relaxation right in the heart ofthe city. I spent an evening here during my recent trip to Huế and was absolutely enchanted by its peaceful ambiance and riverside beauty. Stretching along the Perfume River, this walking street is smaller and more intimate than some of the more commercial pedestrian streets in Vietnam, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s clean, well-maintained, and has a uniquely calm and romantic atmosphere — especially around sunset, when the sky turns golden and reflects off the water. What I appreciated most was the blend of local life and gentle tourism. You’ll find local families taking walks, street performers playing traditional Vietnamese instruments, and small stalls selling art, souvenirs, and light snacks. There are also several charming cafés and teahouses where you can sit and enjoy the view while sipping a cold drink or Vietnamese coffee. The street is beautifully lit in the evening, with colorful lanterns and tasteful lighting that enhances the cozy and poetic feel. It’s the perfect place to take a leisurely stroll, unwind after a day of sightseeing, or just people-watch and feel the rhythm of Huế. If you’re visiting Huế, don’t miss this spot. Nguyễn Đình Chiểu Walking Street is the kind of place that doesn’t try too hard — it simply lets Huế’s gentle soul speak for itself. Five stars without a doubt...."
Stephanie Tan
8 months ago
"Loved walking along the boardwalk in the evening. It was definitely one of the highlights of my trip to Hue. Beautiful views of the river andbridges, while watching how the locals enjoy the weekend. We also passed by a row of museums along the way and enjoyed the outdoor exhibits..."
Gustavo A. Pardo III
6 months ago
"Nice area to take boat ride see city views; park like setting along the river. Best time to go 20:00 most vendors are open and more people watching."

FAQs for Visiting Nguyen Hue Walking Street

Yes, the central boulevard is reserved for pedestrians, making it safe and enjoyable for walking.
Yes, festivals, performances, and seasonal flower displays are held throughout the year.
Yes, the area is well-lit, busy, and considered very safe.

Nearby Attractions to Nguyen Hue Walking Street

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

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Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Nguyễn Đình Chiểu, Phường 5, Quận 3, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon): 10 km

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