Walking in Vietnam: Popular Questions Answered!
Walking in Vietnam can be a challenge due to the crowds and traffic. Learn what to expect and discover safe Vietnam walking tips.
Vietnam is a country rich in culture, history, and tradition. While you look forward to your trip, one aspect you may have questions about is what it is like to go walking in Vietnam, especially in big cities like Hanoi.
Walking in Vietnam can pose a challenge for visitors because the traffic is so intense and chaotic. Nonetheless, you can learn to walk safely and comfortably more quickly than you might think. This guide will outline what you can expect as you walk, how to stay safe, and the best cities for walking to explore.
What to Expect When Walking in Vietnam Cities?
Here are some important pointers to be aware of as you navigate the streets and sidewalks of Vietnam on foot:
- When you are exploring big cities in Vietnam, you can expect to be sharing most streets with vehicular traffic. That includes a truly astonishing number of people on motorbikes. Over 65 million motorbikes are registered in the country according to Statista, so you may imagine how it looks when the rush hours come. A few walking streets are scattered here and there, but they are usually only available as such on the weekends and in certain central areas.
- Crossing streets in Vietnam is not for the faint of heart; the rules that govern traffic are complex. During rush hour, you must learn certain tricks to get across.
- The pavement is not only for pedestrians and vehicles. Vendors and shop owners may sometimes set up food stalls or parking on the pavement, adding to the complexity of traffic situations.
- Not only will you be navigating dense traffic, but you may also exhaust yourself quickly while walking in Vietnam’s major cities. The weather is hot and humid, and the tall buildings can stifle the airflow. The vehicles jammed around you are generating heat as well.
Walking enthusiasts, sorry about that! However, try not to be too daunted after reading what we just shared. Walking in Vietnam may seem challenging to master as a first-time visitor, but with a little practice, you will be able to do it. We will not say that it is a great experience but it is definitely a new and real one if you want to discover Vietnam.
Also, keep in mind that not every street in Vietnamese cities is clogged with traffic. We are also going to share some special walks with you that are pedestrian-friendly, and tailored to offer a beautiful experience to locals and tourists.
Are the Vietnam City Streets a Good Place to Walk?
The answer to this question depends on your skill and tolerance for walking the streets of Vietnam, as well as where you are walking. Some people may always find walking in many streets in Vietnam to be anxiety-inducing and overwhelming. But many others find it natural and easy after a bit of practice. It comes down to your individual personality and preferences.
Tips to Walk Safely in Vietnam
Now that you understand some of the challenges, let’s go over some Vietnam walking tips that can keep you safe and help you quickly reach your destination even downtown.
Don’t walk during rush hour
7:00 - 8:30 in the morning and 4:30 - 6:00 in the afternoon are the time that you want to stay inside. Avoid trying to walk during these rush hour periods altogether if you can.
In case you eventually go out during the hot period, it is an excellent idea to grab a seat close to a window (or even on the sidewalk!) of a restaurant or coffee shop. Take some mental notes as you watch the rush hour traffic going by. You will probably learn some things that will make walking in Vietnam easier during less hectic times.
Try not to panic or get frustrated if you have to walk with the motorbikes
At times, you may find yourself walking next to people on motorbikes. We know, it would be chaotic, but try not to panic if this happens. Bikers have more flexibility with where they steer than people driving automobiles. They will typically do an expert job at not getting in your way so long as you do not make any sudden unusual changes in direction or pace. Walk steadily on the right side of the road, maintaining awareness of everything on around you, and you should be fine.
Use alleys correctly
To get a close glimpse of what everyday life is like in the cities of Vietnam, take the time to meander down the narrow alleys you stumble across. While renting a motorbike can help you get around the larger streets more quickly, or explore the countryside beyond the cities and towns, it is too much to take into the back alleys.
Follow the paths of locals in crowded streets if you are not confident
When you first behold the hustle and bustle of the streets in Vietnam, you may feel as if you are gazing out at sheer chaos. But as you watch the traffic more closely, you could begin to see that it is more orderly than it first appears. Picture the cars, motorbikes, and pedestrians like fish swimming in a river. You will soon be able to visualize the flows of traffic moving along certain currents.
The next time you wade out into that traffic, try and merge into those currents, flowing alongside the locals on the paths they are using. Pretend you are just one fish in a school of fish. This should help you to keep moving safely toward your destination. Avoid taking sudden departures from the flow of traffic and going in wildly different directions in a moment of panic or frustration. That is what could cause an accident.
It's better to wear a mask and bring a bottle of water when you walk outside
The traffic fumes in Hanoi and other crowded cities in Vietnam can be intense. Protect yourself from directly breathing in those fumes by wearing a mask to filter out particulates.
So, our final recommendation in our Vietnam walking tips is to carry a water bottle with you on your walks too so you do not get dehydrated. Even on short walks, this is wise; navigating through the traffic to your destination may take longer than you expect, and be hotter and more uncomfortable than you are picturing at times.
Cities with Best Walking Streets in Vietnam
Hue (Nguyen Dinh Chieu walking street and Perfume River Pedestrian Bridge)
One of the most scenic aspects of Hue is that the Huong River cuts right through the middle of it. There are wide pathways along the river where you can walk or ride a bicycle, with verdant green spaces on one side, and the reflective river on the other.
The walking area starts at Truong Tien Bridge and ends at Phu Xuan Bridge, comprising Nguyen Dinh Chieu walking street and the Huong River pedestrian bridge. Some of the parks that you can reach via the walking street include Tru Tuong Park, the Phan Boi Chau Flower Garden, and the University of Education Park. You also can visit museums housed inside stunning structures built in the French style.
Go out on the Huong River pedestrian bridge to be even closer to the rippling water. You will quickly forget that you are still in the middle of a bustling city. Before you leave, you'd better not miss the street food as well as pick up some handcrafted souvenirs from some of the local vendors along the route.
Hoi An (Hoi An Ancient Street)
If you love strolling along the Huong River in Hue, you should also enjoy walking on Hoi An Ancient Street. This street takes you along Thu Bon River, known as the “Mother River” while you explore the historic district known as Hoi An Ancient Town.
This part of Hoi An has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The beautiful timber-frame buildings will transport you back in time to the 15th through 19th centuries when the town served as a trading port.
For the most atmospheric stroll, we suggest exploring Hoi An Ancient Street at night, when colorful lanterns shed a soft glow over shops and restaurants, and the river stretches in a dark, serene band under picturesque bridges. If you want, you can join a sunset tour or an evening food tour to get some insights and recommendations into what to partake in while you discover Hoi An Ancient Street’s delights.
Danang (Danang Pedestrian Zone)
If you are looking to escape the hectic traffic in Danang for a safe and pleasant stroll, head to the pedestrian zone that opened in 2024. The zone begins at the Dragon Bridge and extends more than a kilometer to the Tran Thi Ly Bridge.
You’ll be able to enjoy the Han River without worrying about automobiles or motorbikes getting in your way. Nguyen Van Troi Bridge has been converted to a pedestrian walkway, confining vehicular traffic to the neighboring suspension bridge.
Grab a bite to eat at a food stall, take in a street art performance, or just soak in the atmosphere as you mingle among the delighted crowds. Take some photos of the graceful forms of the two bridges side-by-side. There are also some soothing green spaces where you can sit and relax if you need a little time off your feet.
Hanoi (Hoan Kiem Walking Street and the Old Quarter)
“Hoan Kiem Walking Street” actually refers to a number of interconnected streets surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake. During weekends, Hoan Kiem Walking Street becomes a pedestrian-only area, making it one of the best places to find nightlife in Vietnam.
While exploring Hoan Kiem Walking Street, you can watch a street performance, play a folk game, grab a refreshing beverage at one of the bars lining the streets, or commission an artist to draw your picture. If you come at night, you can shop for souvenirs at the night market on Hang Dao Street and Hang Ngang Street. Be sure to also snap some photos of St. Joseph’s Cathedral.
From Hoan Kiem Walking Street, you can also make your way into the city’s Old Quarter. The ancient craft and guild streets in the Old Quarter steep visitors in a historic atmosphere while offering countless opportunities for shopping, dining, drinking, and relaxing. You can also visit historical sites and temples such as Old City Gate Hanoi and Bach Ma Temple, enriching your appreciation for Vietnamese culture.
Ho Chi Minh City (Nguyen Hue Walking Street)
Nguyen Hue Walking Street in Ho Chi Minh City, also called “Nguyen Hue Boulevard,” is the prime destination for those looking for an unforgettable experience exploring the city on foot. It is among the most ancient streets in the city, beginning at Lê Thánh Tôn Street, and ending at Tôn Đức Thắng Boulevard. Before it was a street, it served as a canal. During the 19th century, it was converted into an avenue, which at the time was known as “Charner Boulevard.” The current name was chosen in 1955. The boulevard did not become a walking street until its middle lanes were converted into one in 2014-2015. The other lanes also are pedestrian-only on evenings on the weekends.
While you walk along this street, you will notice it is popular not just among tourists, but also among locals. It is particularly renowned for its nightlife attractions, including numerous clubs and pubs. Speaking of venues for drinking and dining, it is also home to the world-famous Apartment 42 building. This unique, colorful structure also houses some exciting boutiques.
Other activities include browsing bookshops, watching street performances, shopping night markets, or sampling street foods.
A particularly special time to visit Nguyen Hue Walking Street is during the Lunar New Year when it is transformed into Nguyen Hue Flower Street. The street becomes pedestrian-only during the day and night, including on weekdays, just for the festival. The area features dramatic, colorful displays of flowers and other decorations to welcome the new year.
Design Your Trip with Exotic Voyages
If you are ready to start exploring Vietnam, design your dream trip with the help of Exotic Voyages. As we help you tailor your itinerary, we can offer you additional tips and tricks for safe and enjoyable walking in Vietnam.
