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The Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, also known officially as the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is one of the most iconic symbols of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Constructed in the late 19th century when Saigon was a French colonial outpost, the breathtaking cathedral is a work of art in the style of neo-Romanesque architecture. The cathedral is famous for its striking red-brick facade, twin bell towers, and a peaceful statue of the Virgin Mary standing guard at the church entrance. In the central district of Ho Chi Minh City, the cathedral is still a dominant religious pilgrimage centre and one of the leading tourist destinations.
Location
Photo: Tun Tun Win / Wikimedia Commons
The address of the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is 01 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It is centrally located between District 1 and is easily accessible from various areas of the city. The cathedral is located directly across from the Central Post Office, another colonial structure. Its closeness to the city’s landmarks, shopping centres, restaurants, and central location make it a perfect stopover for sightseeing tourists. Although the cathedral is under renovation, tourists can still be awed by its stunning exterior and peaceful surroundings.
How To Reach
Photo: Dennis G. Jarvis / Wikimedia Commons
By Road: Tourists can drive a taxi, motorbike, or bus to the cathedral. The roads in Ho Chi Minh City are crowded, so the most convenient option is to pay for a taxi or ride-hailing service such as Grab. There are also city buses with stops close to the cathedral, which is convenient for low-cost travellers.
By Train: Ho Chi Minh City has no metro, but the nearest railway station is Saigon Railway Station (about 4 km away). There, one can take a taxi or bus to the cathedral.
By Air: The nearest airport is Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), 7 km from the cathedral. A taxi or airport bus ride is quick and will have you in the city center within 20–30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Things To Do
1. Discover Vietnam’s History At The Independence Palace
Photo: 源義信 / Wikimedia Commons
Visit the Independence Palace, a pivotal location of the Vietnam War. Discover opulent conference rooms, subterranean bunkers, and the helipad on the roof. The restored rooms and war relics provide a glimpse into the pre-reunification political history of South Vietnam in 1975.
2. Shop And Dine At Ben Thanh Market
Photo: Riza / Wikimedia Commons
Immerse yourself in the lively ambience of Ben Thanh Market, a shopping and culinary heaven. Enjoy authentic Pho, Banh Mi, Vietnamese coffee, or haggle for souvenirs, apparel, and local handicrafts. The market gets a night twist with an evening-after-dark night market experience.
Places To Visit Nearby Notre Dame Cathedral Of Saigon
1. Saigon Central Post Office
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Situated right across the cathedral, the Saigon Central Post Office is among the must-see attractions in Ho Chi Minh City. Constructed between 1886 and 1891, this massive building was conceptualized by Gustave Eiffel, the same individual behind the Eiffel Tower. The building is a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial architecture, featuring intricately ornate tiled floors, high ceilings, and well-maintained maps of Saigon. The post office is still operating, enabling people to send postcards from the site. Souvenir shops inside sell traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, postage stamps, and old postcards.
Distance From The Cathedral: 100 m
Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM
2. Independence Palace (Reunification Palace)
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
The Independence Palace, or Reunification Palace, is a war site that figured prominently in the Vietnam War. It was the presidential palace of South Vietnam’s leaders until April 30, 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates in a famous fall of Saigon. The palace is now a remarkably preserved museum featuring war relics, antique furniture, secret bunkers, and a helipad on the rooftop. Tourists can go on guided tours to discover Vietnam’s history and walk through the magnificent meeting halls, private rooms, and subterranean war rooms.
Distance From The Cathedral: 650 m
Timings: 8 AM – 4:30 PM
3. War Remnants Museum
Photo: Prenn / Wikimedia Commons
The War Remnants Museum was established in 1975, the museum offers a powerful but informative glimpse of the Vietnam War and its impact on the nation. It has poignant exhibits, such as photographs, military equipment, war propaganda, and personal testimonies from war survivors. The area outside houses fighter aircraft, helicopters, tanks, and a prison exhibit with tiger cages. The museum offers several viewpoints on the war, enhancing visitors’ understanding of Vietnam’s history. It is an emotional but worthwhile experience for history enthusiasts.
Distance From The Cathedral: 1.1 km
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
4. Saigon Opera House (Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theatre)
Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commons
Saigon Opera House, or the Ho Chi Minh City Municipal Theatre, is a stunning example of French colonial architecture. It was built in 1897 as entertainment for the French elite. Today, it is an important cultural hub where operas, classical concerts, traditional Vietnamese shows, and contemporary performances occur. The stunning architecture of the building, with intricate carvings and high columns, is a photographer’s paradise. Tourists can see it in the evening when it is all lit up, or tickets can be bought for a live performance.
Distance From The Cathedral: 900 meters
Timings: Varies
Where To Stay
Photo: Max Vakhtbovycn / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Travellers have many accommodation options close to Saigon’s Notre Dame Cathedral. Caravelle Saigon has upscale rooms with rooftop bars and city views. Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint is a solid mid-range option with trendy amenities and a rooftop pool. Hammock Hotel Ben Thanh is a trendy, affordable option with free snacks and a laid-back atmosphere. For a quirky experience, Hotel Des Arts Saigon combines French colonial charm with modern comfort.
Where To Eat
Photo: Gerda Arendt / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Near the cathedral you will find wonderful restaurants. Nha Hang Ngon is a favourite that serves authentic Vietnamese dishes like Pho, Banh Xeo, and Goi Cuon in a beautiful courtyard. Secret Garden has rooftop restaurants with authentic home-style Vietnamese food. If you prefer French-style food, L’Usine has a chic café setting with pastries, coffee, and brunch. Hoa Tuc has modern Vietnamese fusion food in a chic setting for fine dining.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Jim / Wikimedia Commons
The most suitable visitation period for Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, Vietnam, is from December to April, the dry season, and the weather is good for sightseeing. The temperature is between 22°C and 34°C, perfect for outdoor activities. The rainy season (May–November) should be avoided as heavy rain showers and humidity may be inconvenient for travel plans. Morning visits experience less crowd, while evenings experience beautiful lighting for photography. Christmas visitations are a magical experience with festive lighting and activities around the cathedral.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
- Dress modestly since this is a place of worship.
- Check renovation progress before visiting.
- Go in the morning for a serene experience.
- Walk around nearby sites such as the Central Post Office and War Remnants Museum.
- Eat street food for a real taste of Vietnam.
The Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, Vietnam, is a must-visit for history and architecture lovers. Surrounded by historical landmarks and vibrant markets, it offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Whether exploring nearby attractions or enjoying Vietnamese cuisine, the cathedral is a perfect starting point for your adventure in Ho Chi Minh City. Plan a trip today and immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Vietnam!
Cover Photo: Steffen Schmitz / Wikimedia Commons
