- 1
The Independence Palace
Explore the Reunification Palace, once the headquarters of Vietnamese General Ngo Dinh Diem until his assassination in 1963. This iconic site made global headlines in 1975 when a North Vietnamese tank breached its main gate, marking the end of the Vietnam War.
Step back in time within the palace, preserved as it was in 1975. The grounds feature two original tanks from the palace's capture. Originally the residence and office of the French Governor of Cochin-China, the palace boasts lush gardens, hidden rooms, antique furnishings, and a command bunker. It continues to host significant events, including APEC summits.
· 1 h· Admission included
- 2
War Remnants Museum
Opened in 1975, the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as the 'Museum of American War Crimes,' serves as a stark reminder of the Vietnam War's brutality. The museum displays graphic photographs and American military hardware, including a helicopter with rocket launchers, a tank, a fighter jet, an attack aircraft, and a 6,800kg conventional bomb, all used by American troops against the Vietnamese between 1945 and 1975.
· 1 h 15 min· Admission included
- 3
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Constructed in the late 1880s by French colonists, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral stands as a significant bastion of Catholicism in predominantly Buddhist Vietnam. Located in Paris Square, it was named Notre Dame following the installation of the 'Peaceful Notre Dame' statue in 1959.
The Vatican officially recognized the cathedral as a basilica in 1962, bestowing upon it the name Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. This nearly 60-meter-tall structure is characterized by its distinctive neo-Romanesque architecture, featuring a façade of red bricks imported from Marseille, stained glass windows, two bell towers with six bronze bells, and a serene garden in the heart of downtown Ho Chi Minh City's District 1.
· 15 min
- 4
Saigon Central Post Office
A beautifully preserved testament to French colonial architecture, the Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City is arguably the most magnificent post office in Southeast Asia. Situated adjacent to Notre Dame Cathedral, these two landmarks offer a glimpse into Vietnam's past during the Indochinese Empire. Designed by Alfred Foulhoux, the building showcases arched windows and wooden shutters, reflecting its late 19th-century grandeur.
· 30 min
- 5
Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh Municipal Theater)
The elegant colonial Saigon Opera House, located at the intersection of Le Loi and Dong Khoi Streets in District 1, is in close proximity to Notre Dame Cathedral and the Central Post Office. This restored 800-seat venue, built in 1897, hosts a variety of performances, including opera, ballet, concerts, traditional Vietnamese dance, and plays. Performance schedules are displayed externally, and information is available at the nearby state-operated tourist information center.
· Non-stop passage
- 6
Phố Tau Sai Gon (Chợ Lớn Quận 5)
Ho Chi Minh City's Chợ Lớn, with origins dating back to 1778, is Vietnam's largest Chinatown and a site of significant historical and cultural importance. Chinese minorities sought refuge here from the Tay Son rebellion and rebuilt the area twice after attacks, with many perishing while attempting to escape by boat. Survivors settled and established businesses selling various Chinese goods.
Cholon offers a captivating glimpse of classical Chinese architecture and numerous Chinese eateries. The central Binh Tay Market, though bustling and somewhat chaotic with narrow aisles, may not offer the widest variety of products compared to other Ho Chi Minh City markets. However, the primary allure of Cholon lies in its authentic, centuries-old Chinese atmosphere rather than its shopping opportunities.
· 1 h· Admission included
- 7
Ba Thien Hau Temple
Ba Thien Hau Temple in Saigon is dedicated to Mazu, the Chinese sea goddess believed to protect and rescue seafarers. Mazuism integrates traditions from Taoism and Buddhism, forming a unique belief system. This temple is located in Cholon (Chinatown), District 5, approximately a twenty-minute drive from the city center.
Established in 1760 to honor Mazu, the 'Lady of the Sea,' the temple features a grand iron gate leading to large stone incense burners before Mazu's altar. The exterior showcases traditional curved roofs adorned with small porcelain figures depicting themes from Chinese religion and legends.
· 45 min
- 8
Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City's District 1 is an ideal spot for purchasing local handicrafts, branded items, Vietnamese art, and souvenirs. Inside, food stalls offer authentic Vietnamese street food, and you can find refreshments to escape the heat and the intensity of bargaining.
Despite its size and sometimes confusing layout, and best avoided during the peak heat of the day, Ben Thanh Market is a worthwhile visit. As night falls, the surrounding restaurants come alive, creating a vibrant street scene filled with the aromas of wok-fried noodles, barbecued fish, and meats. As one of Saigon's oldest landmarks, Ben Thanh Market provides a truly authentic Vietnamese atmosphere.
· 30 min