Located in central District 1, Nguyen Hue Walking Street is the center of Ho Chi Minh City’s culture. It is the ideal location for nightlife enthusiasts because it offers distinctive culinary treats, vibrant bars, and thrilling entertainment places.
1. Where is Nguyen Hue Walking Street and why is it special?
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is located in Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, which is the vibrant core of Ho Chi Minh City. It serves as a connection between several iconic landmarks, such as the City Hall, the Central Post Office, and the Municipal Theatre.
The wide, open space of Nguyen Hue is ideal for strolling, and it becomes especially lively during the evenings and weekends, attracting families, groups of friends, and street performers.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, stands out for its vibrant atmosphere, and cultural significance | Source: vinwonders.com
The street also links major commercial centers and is often beautifully decorated during holidays like Tet and Christmas. These festive decorations draw many visitors who come to enjoy the atmosphere and take photos, making Nguyen Hue a popular destination for exploring Saigon’s nightlife.
>>> Read more: Things To Do in Ho Chi Minh At Night
2. How Nguyen Hue Walking Street Was Formed
Nguyen Hue Street, now a bustling pedestrian area, was once a vital waterway. In the late 18th century, it served as a canal connecting the Saigon River to the city, called Kinh Lon or “Big Canal”. Over time, the canal was filled in, transforming into the vibrant boulevard we know today.
Originally a canal called Kinh Lon in the 1790s, Nguyen Hue Walking Street began as a waterway connecting the Saigon River to the city | Source: baoxaydung.com.vn
Then, when the French came in the 1860s, they filled the canal and built Charner Street, a grand boulevard with beautiful colonial architecture. After Vietnam gained independence, they renamed it Nguyen Hue Street, after Emperor Quang Trung-one of Vietnam’s most celebrated national heroes.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a vibrant and lively destination in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, offering a perfect blend of cultural attractions, entertainment, and dining options | Source: nld.com.vn
In 2015, the city transformed Nguyen Hue into a pedestrian-only zone. The renovation included removing vehicle traffic, installing paving stones, planting trees, and adding fountains, officially establishing Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
3. Unmissable Experiences on Nguyen Hue Walking Street
3.1 Explore the Cafe Apartment at 42 Nguyen Hue
This apartment building is packed with awesome cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and quirky little shops.
A fun fact: most of these businesses are run by young Vietnamese entrepreneurs. They’ve poured their hearts and souls into creating these unique spaces, from the funky decor to the delicious food and drinks. It’s a real testament to the creativity and energy of Saigon’s youth.
Apartment 42 Nguyen Hue offers a vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, boutiques, and unique shops | Source: ontripquest.com
If you’re a coffee lover like me, 42 Nguyen Hue Apartment is caffeine heaven for us. There are a few of my favorite spots worth a try:
- Saigon Oi Cafe – 5th floor: This place has a super chill vibe with amazing views of the walking street.
- Boo Coffee – 8th floor: features a Korean-inspired aesthetic, popular for its Instagram-friendly decor.
- The Letter Coffee – 6th floor: provides a vintage-inspired setting with a nostalgic ambiance.
- PỜ CAFÉ – 8th floor: known for its traditional Hue-style salty coffee, made using a classic recipe that gives it a distinct and robust flavor.
3.2 Savoring ‘Bệt’ Coffee at Nguyen Hue Walking Street
One of the popular activities on Nguyen Hue Walking Street is “cà phê bệt”, where people enjoy coffee while sitting on small mats directly on the sidewalk. This casual and affordable experience allows visitors to immerse themselves in the street life of Ho Chi Minh City.
Experience the charm of ‘Bệt’ coffee at Nguyen Hue Walking Street, where you can enjoy your brew casually on a mat by the sidewalk | Source: kenh14.vn
Popular spots for enjoying “cà phê bệt” on Nguyen Hue Walking Street include the corner of Nguyen Hue and Le Loi Streets, which attracts many young people and students, and the area in front of City Hall, offering a panoramic view of the walking street.
Along Nguyen Hue Street, numerous small coffee stalls provide plastic stools and mats for customers. Common drinks like “cà phê sữa đá” (Vietnamese iced coffee with condensed milk) are typically available for about a dollar or less.
3.3 Immerse Yourself in Vibrant Street Performances
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is known for its lively atmosphere, with frequent street performances. Musicians often perform a mix of traditional Vietnamese music and modern pop songs, with some performances featuring solo artists and others showcasing full bands.
Where you can enjoy captivating street performances featuring everything from traditional Vietnamese music to modern pop. | Source: tieudung.kinhtedothi.vn
In addition to music, visitors may encounter various street acts, such as fire shows, acrobats, and magicians. Occasionally, flash mobs with choreographed dance routines also take place, adding to the vibrant street scene.
3.4 Discover Fun Activities at the end of Nguyen Hue Walking Street – Bach Dang Wharf
Captivating Nightscapes at Bach Dang Wharf
Bach Dang Wharf offers a scenic spot to enjoy the view of the Saigon River and the city lights reflecting off the water. As night falls, it becomes a peaceful place to relax, take in the cool breeze, and appreciate the skyline.
Unwind at Bach Dang Wharf, where the evening sky meets the sparkling lights of Saigon, creating a breathtaking nightscape | Source: dantri.com.vn
Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy street food like banh mi, or sit on a bench to observe the lively surroundings. For a unique experience, booking a dinner cruise provides a chance to enjoy a meal while taking in panoramic views of the city.
Exploring the City by Waterbus
Exploring the city by Saigon Waterbus from Bach Dang Wharf offers a unique perspective of Ho Chi Minh City. Instead of navigating busy streets, passengers cruise along the Saigon River, providing a relaxing escape from the city’s hustle.
Discover the city from a new perspective by taking the Saigon Waterbus at Bach Dang Wharf. | Source: ticotravel.com.vn
The Waterbus makes several stops, including Bach Dang, Binh An, Thanh Da, and Linh Dong. Along the route, riders can enjoy views of the city skyline and notable landmarks like the Saigon Bridge, Landmark 81, and the Bitexco Financial Tower.
Saigon Waterbus guide and booking information. | Source: Saigon Waterbus
To make the most of your Waterbus experience, I recommend booking your tickets online in advance through the Saigon Waterbus app. This way, you can skip the ticket lines and hop right on board. The app also has schedule and route information, so you can plan your trip accordingly.
Enjoying Upscale Coffee at Bach Dang Wharf
At Bach Dang Wharf, several cafes offer a great spot to enjoy Vietnamese coffee with stunning views of the Saigon River. Due to the prime location, these Cafes tend to get crowded in the evenings and on weekends, so you should go there before 7 pm in advance.
Recharge with top-quality Vietnamese coffee at Bach Dang Wharf, the perfect spot to soak in the vibrant Saigon atmosphere. | Source: znews.vn
Katinat Cafe is a popular choice, known for its spacious, airy environment and elegant decor. In the evening, the cafe transforms with the city lights, creating a mesmerizing and vibrant atmosphere.
4. What to eat when you come to Nguyen Hue Walking Street?
4.1 Milk Tea Paradise
Dear bubble tea fans, Nguyen Hue Walking Street is truly home to a wide variety of milk tea shops and eateries. Some popular brands in the area include:
- May Cha: A popular bubble tea spot on Nguyen Hue Walking Street, known for its signature drink, egg custard milk tea with black sugar tapioca pearls. The drink is loved for its rich custard flavor, fragrant tea, and chewy black sugar pearls.
- Location: 86 Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Gong Cha: This well-known international bubble tea chain has a location in Nguyen Hue, offering a broad selection of drinks, from classic milk teas to fruit-based options.
- Location: 118 Ho Tung Mau Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Koi Thé: Renowned for its smooth, rich milk tea and various topping options, Koi Thé is a popular destination for those seeking a satisfying bubble tea experience in the city.
- Location:
- 108 Ho Tung Mau Street, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
- 1st floor, 51 Ton That Thiep Street or 120 Pasteur, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Location:
With its rich selection of milk tea shops, Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a must-visit destination for enthusiasts of this trendy beverage. | Source: kenh14.vn
4.2 Snack Haven
Nguyen Hue Walking Street serves as a lively entertainment hub for young people and attracts numerous tourists eager to explore the area. It’s also a hotspot for some of the trendiest snacks in Saigon.
Indulge in popular snacks like mixed rice paper, grilled rice paper, and delightful rice paper rolls. | Source: lifestyle.znews.vn
A casual stroll through the streets will lead you to an enticing selection of treats, including fried fish balls, mixed rice paper, grilled rice paper, rice paper rolls, animal-shaped ice cream, bingsu, etc.
4.3 Sizzling Bread with Egg – Mac Thi Buoi
- Location: 93-95-97 Mac Thi Buoi Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
For night owls looking for a late-night snack on the walking street, this spot is a delightful choice.
Enjoy a flavorful late-night treat at Mac Thi Buoi, where sizzling bread with egg is expertly seasoned and served with tender beef | Source: lifestyle.znews.vn
The sizzling bread with egg comes without sauce, but it compensates with outstanding seasoning. The tender beef is infused with flavor and stir-fried with aromatic butter, served alongside pate, cold cuts, and fresh bread, ensuring a satisfying late-night meal.
5. Helpful Tips for Your Visit to Nguyen Hue Walking Street
Nguyen Hue Walking Street is open all day, every day of the week. However, for the best pedestrian experience, consider visiting during:
- Weekend Evenings (Saturday and Sunday): From 7:00 PM to 11:00 PM, traffic is restricted on the street, creating a spacious and safe area for pedestrians. This is also the most vibrant time on the walking street, with plenty of entertainment, street art, and food stalls.
- Holidays and Festivals: On major holidays like Tet (Lunar New Year) and National Day (September 2), Nguyen Hue Street is often decorated beautifully and hosts special events, attracting many locals and tourists.
- Nguyen Hue can get quite crowded, especially in the evenings. Be mindful of your belongings and keep your bags closed. While people are generally friendly and the atmosphere is lively, it could be an idea to be cautious of pickpockets, as with any busy city center.
6. Explore Nearby Attractions of Nguyen Hue Walking Street with Local Guides on Motorbikes
For a seamless and memorable exploration of Nguyen Hue Walking Street, you could consider combining your visit with nearby landmarks:
- Saigon Opera House: This Gothic-style architectural masterpiece is a must-see for photography enthusiasts, making it a prime spot for anyone looking to capture a stunning “Instagram moment.”
- Ben Thanh Market: Known as a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, this bustling market offers a wide array of goods that cater to daily needs, making it an exciting stop for local shopping.
- Independence Palace: A historical landmark that houses numerous artifacts and documents with immense historical significance. The palace witnessed key historical moments, especially the liberation of South Vietnam on April 30, 1975.
- Nha Rong Wharf: This historic site marks the start of Ho Chi Minh’s 30-year journey to seek independence for the nation, reminding visitors of Vietnam’s rich heritage and resilient spirit.
- Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts: This museum is housed in a French colonial-style building from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, blending Eastern design elements like ceramic columns and tiled roofs with Western architecture.
Join local guides on motorbikes to uncover the nearby attractions of Nguyen Hue Walking Street, blending adventure with cultural insights.
Choosing a local motorbike guide, you’ll gain a unique perspective and insider tips that make each stop come to life, while seamlessly navigating the busy city streets with ease and authenticity. This personal touch allows you to experience Ho Chi Minh City like the locals. You’ll connect with its vibrant culture and stories in an engaging way that only local guides can offer!
