What to Do in Saigon - Ho Chi Minh City? Landmarks and Architecture
Article from : 12 mars 2025 - Last update : 20 mars 2025
Explore Ho Chi Minh City’s stunning architecture! From its colonial-era landmarks to modern skyscrapers, the city is a fascinating mix of history and innovation. Visit must-see attractions like the Central Post Office, City Hall, and Bitexco Tower. Click here to uncover the city's architectural gems!
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly Saigon, is a metropolis where colonial heritage, Asian influences, and modernity blend seamlessly. Its urban landscape is marked by iconic landmarks that tell the story of the city's history and evolution. Here are some must-visit sites to explore.
1. Ho Chi Minh City Hall (District 1)
This majestic French colonial building, constructed in 1902, now houses the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. With its richly decorated façade and prime location on the pedestrian street Nguyễn Huệ, it is a must-see for visitors. Built in 1902, its design is inspired by French town halls and is often mistaken for the Saigon Opera House by tourists.
Hours: Not open to the public but beautifully illuminated at night.
Access: Located on the front of Nguyễn Huệ pedestrian street.
2. Saigon Opera House (District 1)
Inspired by 19th-century French theaters, the Saigon Opera House hosts performances, concerts, and cultural events. It is an architectural gem that reflects the city's colonial past. The opera house was almost demolished after the war to make way for a conference center. Fortunately, it was restored in the 1990s
Hours: Open during performances (check the schedule).
Ticket price: Varies by show (typically between 200,000 and 1,500,000 VND).
3. Saigon Central Post Office (District 1)
A masterpiece of colonial architecture, the post office was designed by French architects, with its iron framework attributed to Gustave Eiffel. Inside, visitors can admire vaulted ceilings and historical maps of Vietnam, making it a must-visit site. Contrary to popular belief, Gustave Eiffel did not design the entire building - only its metal structure.
Hours: 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM daily.
Access: Located next to Notre-Dame Cathedral
4. Bến Thành Market (District 1)
A symbol of the city, this historic market is recognizable by its iconic clock tower and central dome. A bustling place where tourists and locals gather, it offers a variety of souvenirs, textiles, and traditional Vietnamese food. This market has existed since 1859 and was moved to its current location in 1914.
Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM.
Tip: Prices are high for tourists; haggling (at least 30% off) is recommended.
5. Dragon House Wharf (District 4)
Also known as Bến Nhà Rồng, this historic port building is where Hồ Chí Minh embarked on his journey in 1911, marking an important chapter in Vietnamese history. The building gets its name from the dragon sculptures on its roof, a symbol of power in Asia.
Hours: 7:30 AM - 5:00 PM.
Access: Reachable by taxi or bus from downtown
6. Bitexco Financial Tower (District 1)
With its futuristic design and an observation deck at 262 meters, Bitexco Tower was once the city's most iconic skyscraper. The panoramic view from the top is truly breathtaking. Its shape is inspired by a lotus bud, Vietnam’s national flower
Hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM.
Ticket price: free entrance and 200,000 VND for the Sky Deck
7. Landmark 81 (Bình Thạnh District)
Vietnam’s tallest building, standing at 461 meters, is a symbol of modernity. In addition to offices and residences, it features an observation deck offering unparalleled views of the city. This tower symbolizes Vietnam’s growing prosperity. The observatory offers views up to 60 km on a clear day.
Hours: 8:30 AM - 10:00 PM.
Ticket price: free entrance and 810,000 VND for access to the top observatory.
8. Ba Son Bridge
Recently inaugurated, this bridge connects the downtown area to the new urban district of Thủ Thiêm. It offers stunning views of the Saigon River, especially at sunset. The bridge was built on the site of a former French naval shipyard dating back to the 19th century.
Access: Connects downtown to Thủ Thiêm, best visited at sunset.
9. Majestic Hotel (District 1)
Built in 1925, this luxury hotel is a relic of old Saigon. With its refined architecture and a rooftop bar overlooking the Saigon River, it remains a legendary spot in the city. The hotel has hosted numerous famous guests, including Graham Greene, who wrote part of The Quiet American here.
Hours: Open to visitors for coffee or cocktails on the rooftop bar.
10. The Courthouse (District 1)
Lesser-known to tourists, this stunning colonial-era building still serves as a judicial institution. Its elegant façade is a great example of French Indochinese architecture. One of the few colonial buildings still functioning in its original role.
Access: Not open for visits but can be admired from the outside.
11. An Dương Vương Statue (District 5)
This imposing statue, set on a Greco-Roman-inspired column, honors An Dương Vương, an ancient Vietnamese king. This statue honors the king who founded the kingdom of Âu Lạc in the 3rd century BC
12. Saigon Water Puppet Theater (District 1)
A unique venue where visitors can experience traditional Vietnamese water puppet shows, an art form deeply rooted in local heritage. This art form dates back over 1,000 years and was traditionally performed by Vietnamese farmers in rice paddies
Hours: Shows at 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM.
Ticket price: 150,000 VND per ticket.
13. Former Bank of Indochina Building (District 1)
This magnificent colonial structure, now a luxury hotel, is a testament to the city's economic history during the French colonial era. Once the financial hub of colonial Vietnam, this building has been transformed into a luxury hotel
Conclusion
From colonial heritage to modern skyscrapers, Ho Chi Minh City offers a captivating blend of architecture and history. These landmarks are a testament to the city’s past and its ever-evolving future.