Thu Thiem Riverwalk
A scenic promenade along the Saigon River offering breathtaking city skyline views, perfect for evening strolls and photography.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
City lights sparkle beautifully
Thu Thiem Riverwalk
Best Time
City lights sparkle beautifully

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic promenade along the Saigon River offering breathtaking city skyline views, perfect for evening strolls and photography.
"The view from here next level. And very peaceful walking place."
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Arrive before sunset to witness the city lights twinkle on the river. It's truly spectacular!
🏍️ Motorbike Access
Motorbikes are best for reaching the riverfront via small alleys. Cars may struggle with access.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Skyline Views
Saigon Riverfront
Witness the breathtaking panorama of Ho Chi Minh City's iconic skyline, especially stunning at sunset and night.

Riverside Stroll
Along the Saigon River
Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride along the well-maintained embankment, a refreshing escape from city noise.

Starbucks with a View
Thu Thiem Riverside Park
Relax at a unique Starbucks offering unparalleled views of the Saigon River and the city's vibrant energy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Evening Ambiance
Accessing the Riverwalk
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Arrive before sunset to witness the city lights twinkle on the river. It's truly spectacular!
🏍️ Motorbike Access
Motorbikes are best for reaching the riverfront via small alleys. Cars may struggle with access.
☕ Coffee with a View
Don't miss the Starbucks in Thu Thiem Riverside Park for amazing skyline views.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Walks
Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride along the embankment, a great escape from the city bustle.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Catch the Sunset Magic
Arrive before sunset to witness the city lights twinkle on the river. It's truly spectacular!
🏍️ Motorbike Access
Motorbikes are best for reaching the riverfront via small alleys. Cars may struggle with access.
☕ Coffee with a View
Don't miss the Starbucks in Thu Thiem Riverside Park for amazing skyline views.
🚶♀️ Leisurely Walks
Enjoy a peaceful walk or bike ride along the embankment, a great escape from the city bustle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Thu Thiem Riverwalk for its stunning, panoramic views of the Ho Chi Minh City skyline, especially captivating at sunset and night. It's highlighted as a peaceful escape with a well-maintained promenade perfect for leisurely walks. Some note that access can be tricky for cars, but motorbikes offer a convenient solution.
"The Saigon Riverside Embankment, located along the Saigon River in Ho Chi Minh City, is one of the city's most scenic and revitalized areas, offering a picturesque escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The embankment stretches for several kilometers and provides an impressive mix of natural beauty and urban development, making it a prime spot for both locals and tourists.
One of the most notable features of the Saigon Riverside Embankment is its stunning panoramic views of the river and surrounding landscape. The peaceful atmosphere, coupled with the view of boats gliding along the river, offers a refreshing break for anyone looking to unwind. The area is perfect for a leisurely walk or a bike ride, and visitors can also enjoy the many parks, green spaces, and benches along the waterfront. It’s an excellent spot to catch a sunset over the river, making it a photographer’s paradise.
The embankment has undergone significant development in recent years, transforming the area into a well-maintained public space. There are now several cafes, restaurants, and bars where visitors can enjoy food and drinks with a view, adding a touch of vibrancy to the area. The mix of modern architecture and traditional river views creates a unique ambiance that showcases the city's blend of old and new.
For those interested in the local culture, the Riverside Embankment is also close to key landmarks such as the Bitexco Tower, the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica, and the Central Post Office, making it an ideal location for sightseeing. Additionally, the nearby Saigon River Cruise offers a chance to explore the river from a different perspective, with boat tours providing stunning views of the skyline.
Overall, the Saigon Riverside Embankment is a must-visit for anyone in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers a perfect balance of tranquility, natural beauty, and modern development, making it an ideal place to relax, enjoy the scenery, and immerse oneself in the charm of the city. Whether you're strolling along the river or enjoying a drink at one of the riverside cafes, it’s a place where the essence of Saigon truly comes to life."
Gopi Dev
"Would say this is the best place to take a photo of landmark 81. It's recommended to get here through the pier. I only had time in the afternoon when it was raining. I can imagine the night with the lights on to be spectacular."
Alec
"Walk along river bank, not disturbed by heavy traffic, great views on another side with Binh Than and district one buildings. Constructed some years ago, some parts could be closed comparing originally many kilometres walking pathway"
Soko 37 (Soko37)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Motorbikes are recommended for easier access via small alleys. You can also consider using the pier for direct entry to the walking path.
Driving a car can be challenging due to narrow access points. Motorbikes are generally a more convenient option for reaching the riverfront directly.
Yes, you can take a taxi or Grab, but be prepared for potential drop-off points that might require a short walk to the riverfront itself, especially if you're aiming for specific spots.
While direct bus routes might be limited, you can explore bus options to nearby areas in District 2 and then take a short taxi or motorbike ride to the riverwalk.
You can take a taxi or Grab across the Thu Thiem Tunnel or bridge. Alternatively, consider a scenic ferry or boat ride to a nearby pier and walk from there.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Thu Thiem Riverwalk is a public space and generally free to enter and enjoy.
The riverwalk is typically accessible 24/7, but the most enjoyable experience is during daylight hours and into the evening when the city lights are on.
As it's a public park and walkway, no advance booking or tickets are required. You can visit anytime.
While the area is open, it's best to visit during reasonable hours for safety and to enjoy the ambiance. Late-night visits might be less populated.
Weekday mornings tend to be the least crowded. Evenings and weekends, especially around sunset, will see more visitors.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire stretch offers great views, but the areas facing the District 1 skyline, especially during sunset and at night, are prime photo locations.
Absolutely! The sunset over the Saigon River, with the city skyline as a backdrop, creates a spectacular scene for photographers.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive skyline. A tripod can be useful for low-light shots at night.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, it's always wise to be mindful of private establishments like cafes and avoid intrusive photography.
The 'golden hour' just before sunset and the 'blue hour' shortly after offer stunning light. Nighttime with the city lights is also a popular choice.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and food stalls along the riverwalk, including a notable Starbucks with river views.
You'll find a mix of local snacks, drinks, and some cafes offering light meals or coffee.
The Starbucks is known for its views, and other cafes might offer pleasant seating areas overlooking the river.
Picnicking is generally acceptable in park areas, but it's good practice to clean up after yourself.
Beyond the immediate riverwalk, the surrounding District 2 area offers a wide array of restaurants and eateries catering to various tastes and budgets.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the daytime for a more relaxed experience, or in the early evening to witness the city lights without it getting too late for younger ones. The Starbucks in Thu Thiem Riverside Park can be a good spot for a family break, offering drinks and snacks with a view. Pack some snacks and water, as options directly on the path might be limited to cafes and stalls.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim to be there during the golden hour before sunset and the blue hour that follows for the most magical light. The reflection of the city lights on the water during the evening is a must-capture moment. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the full expanse of the skyline, and a tripod will be invaluable for low-light photography after dark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Experiencing the Skyline Views
For an unparalleled vantage point, consider visiting the Starbucks located within the Thu Thiem Riverside Park. This spot has become a popular destination for its direct, unobstructed views of the iconic Landmark 81 and the surrounding urban landscape. It's an ideal place to relax with a coffee and soak in the vibrant atmosphere as the city lights up.
Many travelers recommend timing your visit for sunset. The transition from daylight to the illuminated nightscape provides a dynamic and visually stunning experience. Bringing a camera is a must, as the reflections on the water and the glowing city create incredible photographic opportunities.
Navigating and Accessing the Riverwalk
Some travelers suggest using the pier as an entry point, which can offer a more direct route to the main walking path. This method bypasses some of the trickier alleyways and gets you straight to the scenic promenade.
While the riverwalk itself is a public space, some sections might have been subject to development or closures over time. It's advisable to be prepared for a bit of exploration to find the best accessible parts of the pathway.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit