Since its official launch in 2015, the 640-meter-long Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street has become one of the top free attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. The broad promenade starts in the front of the City Hall and ends at Bach Dang Wharf by the Saigon River. Running alongside the streets are an assortment of busy restaurants, cafes and grand buildings.
Although Nguyen Hue is dubbed “pedestrian street”, vehicles can still commute on the sides of the street on weekdays, and there aren’t many shades of green, so we recommend visiting Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street after sunset. Here’s a list of attractions you may want to check out.
This building occupies one end of the promenade, towards Le Thanh Ton street. You can’t get inside since the place is a functioning government entity, but the magnificent colonial French architecture of its facade might just be enough for your ritual Instagram photos
The grand City Hall
In front of the City Hall is a statue of Ho Chi Minh - the great Uncle our city is named after.
The historical Rex Hotel remains, but traces from its colonial days has almost disappeared behind the expensive glass windows of luxury brands.
Rex at a glance
However, the Rex Garden Bar on the hotel’s rooftop is worth a visit. It’s only 5-floors high, but the bar still offers a pleasant view of the city’s most prominent architectural works. The bar is perfect for those seeking for ice-cold drinks after a long day running around in the sun.
The nostalgic ambiance at Rex Garden Bar
Address: 141 Nguyen Hue District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 24/24
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If you prefer a cozier, less touristy place for alcohol, look no further than Broma - and as opposed to the name, it is definitely a bar. This compact bohemian bar offers a wide selection of drinks, from international beers to locally crafted cocktails. The view of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street from the 4th floor is alright, but the place is more about the ambiance and the live gigs throughout the week.
Live music at Broma
Address: 41 Nguyen Hue, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 5:30 PM - 2:00 AM
Of course, we have to save the best for last. This apartment is a league of its own. You can spend an entire day here if you are into hip cafes, crafty studios, or pretty fashion boutiques.
The apartment is fun, trendy, local, and “Saigon”
Head to Partea for an English-style cup of tea. If you prefer coffee, the answer is Thinker&Dreamer. For a sweet treat, there’s DOSH. Hungry? Poke Saigon offers the best poke bowls in the city. Want some retail therapy? The options are endless: Chicbae21 (clothing), Shimmer Silver (jewelry), DoubleDouble (phone accessories), etc.
Address: 42 Nguyen Hue District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening hours: Depends, but generally from 8 AM to 10 PM
To have fun trips in Ho Chi Minh City, check out our authentic motorbike tours with professional local guides! |
Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street is the best place to go for free in Ho Chi Minh's street and feel the liveliness of the city: locals crowding to walk, date, and socialize. An alternative to Nguyen Hue is Minh City. Even if you are not visiting any stores, it’s still an experience to stroll along the Bui Vien Walking Street, otherwise known as Ho Chi Minh City’s Backpackers’ Paradise.
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© Written by Chau Tran for itourvn.com
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Comments
a cool place to hang out at night