1. Cultural and historical landmarks in Saigon
1.1. Independence Palace
- Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward
- Opening hours: 7 AM - 6 PM
The Independence Palace ranks among the most important landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing Vietnam's turbulent past. Originally constructed as the French Governor's residence in 1868, the current structure features unique Vietnamese architecture designed by Ngo Viet Thu. Every element carries symbolic meaning, from prosperity-shaped floor plans to bamboo-inspired stone screens. The palace gained international fame when the Vietnamese forces stormed through its entrance, marking national reunification in 1975.
1.2. War Remnants Museum
- Address: 28 Vo Van Tan Street, Xuan Hoa Ward
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 5:30 PM
The War Remnants Museum is one of the most emotionally powerful landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, preserving crucial wartime evidence since 1975. This internationally recognized institution houses thousands of historical documents and artifacts across nine themed galleries, featuring authentic photographs and testimonies. The museum's dedication to promoting peace has earned global acclaim, including TripAdvisor's 2024 ranking as Asia's top museum destination.
1.3. Cu Chi Tunnels
- Address: Phu Hiep Hamlet, An Nhon Tay Ward & Ben Dinh Hamlet, Nhuan Duc Ward
- Opening hours: 7 AM - 5 PM
The Cu Chi Tunnels are a historically significant landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing 30 years of resilience during the resistance war against America. This 250-kilometer underground network served as a complete subterranean town with sleeping quarters, hospitals, and weapon storage. Two main sites remain: Ben Duoc War Tunnel and Ben Dinh War Tunnel. Visitors can explore preserved sections to experience how Vietnamese forces survived bombing campaigns and launched surprise attacks through hidden entrances and trap systems.
1.4. Saigon Central Post Office
- Address: 2 Cong Xa Paris Street, Sai Gon Ward
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 6 PM (Mon-Sat) | 8 AM - 5 PM (Sun)
Dating back to 1886, Saigon Central Post Office remains one of the city's most beloved architectural treasures. This French colonial masterpiece features stunning yellow walls, intricate white carvings, and a distinctive central timepiece. Tourists love exploring its spacious interior with cathedral-like arched ceilings and historical maps depicting Saigon in the 1890s. The Architectural Digest named it the world's second most beautiful post office, securing its status among the most celebrated landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City.
1.5. Notre Dame Cathedral
- Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris Street, Sai Gon Ward
- Opening hours (for masses only):
- Monday - Saturday: 5:30 AM | 5:30 PM
- Sunday: 5:30 AM | 8 AM | 9:30 AM | 4 PM | 5:30 PM | 7 PM
Red-brick towers pierce the Ho Chi Minh City skyline at Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, an architectural treasure that mirrors Paris's famous Notre Dame. Built by French craftsmen during 1877-1880 using imported materials, this neo-Romanesque masterpiece creates an iconic vista alongside the adjacent post office. It is ranked among the most photographed landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City. As of now, the cathedral is under a comprehensive restoration and is closed to tourists. However, it remains active for Catholic services
1.6. Ben Thanh Market
- Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward
- Opening hours: 6 AM until late
Ben Thanh Market is Ho Chi Minh City's most popular retail destination, offering tourists an authentic Vietnamese shopping experience in Saigon’s heart. This historic marketplace features distinctive French colonial architecture with its iconic clock tower and four main entrances. Operating daily from 6 AM to 7 PM, it transforms into a vibrant night market afterward. Here, shoppers can find everything, from conical hats and handcrafted souvenirs to clothes and delicacies.
1.7. Saigon Opera House
- Address: 7 Cong Truong Lam Son Street, Sai Gon Ward
- Opening hours: 7 AM - 9 PM
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, built from 1898 to 1900, is a stunning French colonial landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. Designed by Félix Olivier and inspired by Paris's Opéra Garnier, it features Flamboyant Gothic architecture with imported materials. The building showcases arched windows, decorative reliefs, and Greek caryatid statues. After serving as South Vietnam's National Assembly, it returned to hosting artistic performances post-1975 in its elegant 500-seat theater.
1.8. Nha Rong Wharf
- Address: 1 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Xom Chieu Ward
- Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 11:30 AM | 1:30 PM - 5 PM
Nha Rong Wharf sits at the Saigon River confluence on a 12,000-hectare site. Built by French colonists in 1862-1863, this unique structure blends Western architecture with Vietnamese dragon roof motifs, earning its "Dragon House" nickname. The site holds historical significance as the place of departure for the young Ho Chi Minh on June 5, 1911, beginning his 30-year journey seeking Vietnam's independence. Today, it serves as Ho Chi Minh Museum, commemorating his revolutionary legacy.
1.9. Tan Dinh Church
- Address: 289 Hai Ba Trung Street, Xuan Hoa Ward
- Opening hours: 8 AM - 11 AM | 2 PM - 5 PM (closed on weekends)
Among the notable places to see in Ho Chi Minh City, Tan Dinh Church (Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus) stands out with its distinctive pink facade. Built during 1870-1876 in Gothic architecture, it acquired its famous powder-pink coating in 1957. As one of the city's oldest churches, Tan Dinh Church features a tower with a 3-meter cross and five bells. Gothic columns lead to Italian marble altars, creating a sacred space that attracts visitors with its architectural charm.
>>> Check out: Places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City to not miss out on
2. Modern landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City
2.1. Landmark 81
- Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Thanh My Tay Ward
- Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 11 PM
Landmark 81 ranks among the most impressive landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, rising 461 meters as Vietnam's tallest skyscraper. Its bamboo-inspired architecture reflects Vietnamese cultural values. Visitors can enjoy shopping at Vincom Center, breathtaking city views at the Skyview Observatory, plus amenities including a cinema and pools. The landscaped park below provides green space, establishing this architectural marvel as a symbol of modern Saigon.
2.2. Bitexco Financial Tower
- Address: 2 Hai Trieu Street, Sai Gon Ward
- Opening hours: 9:30 AM - 9:30 PM
Bitexco Financial Tower, rising 262 meters tall with 68 floors, remains one of Ho Chi Minh City's most recognizable skyscrapers since 2010. The tower's lotus bud design celebrates Vietnamese tradition through smooth, curved architectural lines. Tourists can explore an upscale shopping mall and visit an observation deck on the 49th floor for stunning panoramic views of the Saigon River and city landmarks, making it a must-visit for any Saigon trip.
2.3. Thu Thiem Tunnel
- Address: Vo Van Kiet - Mai Chi Tho streets
Thu Thiem Tunnel represents Southeast Asia's most advanced underwater crossing, connecting the center of Ho Chi Minh City to the former Thu Duc City beneath the Saigon River. Featuring six traffic lanes, this engineering marvel serves thousands daily. The tunnel's rooftop conversion into a scenic park offers spectacular river and city views, transforming it into a popular recreational destination, where visitors can enjoy evening gatherings overlooking the urban landscapes.
>>> Plan a detailed Ho Chi Minh City itinerary with our suggestions!
3. Natural landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City
3.1. Saigon River
The Saigon River flows through Ho Chi Minh City's heart, serving as the city's lifeline for centuries. This waterway offers romantic dinner cruises, cultural boat tours, and convenient sightseeing opportunities aboard the Saigon Water Bus. Tourists can enjoy breathtaking views of the skyline, riverside temples, and busy ports. The river combines sightseeing with practical urban mobility, making it central to both tourism and daily life in modern Saigon.
3.2. Can Gio
Can Gio, situated over 40 kilometers away from the city center, is Vietnam's first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Can Gio Mangrove Forest offers diverse activities, including kayaking, cycling, fishing, forest trekking, and visiting Monkey Island. Key attractions include Vam Sat eco-tourism area, Beach 30/4, Thanh An Island, and Sac Forest. Can Gio also provides excellent photo ops and fresh seafood at affordable prices in Hang Duong Market, making it an ideal place for a green escape.
3.3. Con Dao Island
As a unique landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, Con Dao Island is a cluster of 16 islands with stunning beaches, coral diving sites, and turtle nesting areas. It also features significant historical attractions including a prison, Hang Duong Cemetery, and temples. Con Dao offers tourists an extraordinary combination of pristine natural beauty and profound historical depth, representing both a marine sanctuary and a memorial to Vietnam's struggle for independence.
>>> Check out the map of Ho Chi Minh City for tourists!
FAQs about landmarks of Ho Chi Minh City
Can I take photos inside these landmarks of Saigon?
Most places allow photography, but some religious sites and museums may restrict it. Check the local rules first.
Which landmarks best showcase Ho Chi Minh City’s history?
The Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, and Cu Chi Tunnels offer the best historical insights into Saigon’s past.
When is the best time to visit these landmarks?
Visit in early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds. Weekdays are typically quieter than weekends.
Do I need to pay to enter these landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City?
It varies. Some sites are free to enter (Notre-Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, Ben Thanh Market), while others charge fees (Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Nha Rong Wharf, Cu Chi Tunnels).
These landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City offer an extraordinary journey through Vietnam's rich tapestry of history, culture, and nature. From colonial architecture and revolutionary legacy to modern skyscrapers and pristine islands, they collectively showcase the dynamic spirit and enduring heritage that define this remarkable metropolis.
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