Catholic pilgrimage to churches and shrines by car from Ho Chi Minh City

Catholic pilgrimage to churches and shrines by car from Ho Chi Minh City. Around HCMC, many churches and pilgrimage centres welcome the faithful and visitors alike, from newly dedicated buildings to long-loved Marian shrines. Here are places you can arrange in one or two days, with notes to keep each visit reverent.

Our Lady of Nui Cui Pilgrimage Centre (Dong Nai)

In the Diocese of Xuan Loc, near Highway 20 beside Tri An Lake. The centre honours Mary Immaculate, Queen of the Vietnamese Martyrs, with a statue of Our Lady on the summit of Nui Cui and a vast square. Its shrine church, recently dedicated, has a large dome and a Shrine of the Martyrs. Opening hours and Mass times may change, so please check the centre's announcements before you go.

Song Vinh Parish Church (Phu My)

A church of the Diocese of Ba Ria right on Highway 51 in Tan Phuoc ward. It is built in Gothic style with twin towers, pointed arches, stained glass and mainly local stone, and was consecrated in 2022. It draws many visitors, especially at weekends and Christmas. It is an active parish church, so please stay quiet during liturgies.

Song Vinh lies on the way to Vung Tau, so it pairs well with a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Bai Dau on the same day.

Our Lady of Bai Dau (Vung Tau)

A seaside Marian shrine of the Diocese of Ba Ria, where Our Lady gazes out to sea. Elderly pilgrims should allow extra time, as the path up to the statue is steep.

Our Lady of Ta Pao (Tanh Linh)

A pilgrimage site of the Diocese of Phan Thiet in the hills, suited to groups seeking a day of retreat away from the city.

Tac Say Pilgrimage Centre (Ca Mau)

The resting place of Blessed Father Francis Xavier Truong Buu Diep, beatified on 2 July 2026. It is far, so groups usually go for two days and one night. See the Blessed Father Truong Buu Diep trip.

Combining by route

• Highway 51: Song Vinh church and Our Lady of Bai Dau.
• Highway 20: Our Lady of Nui Cui.
• Towards Tanh Linh: Our Lady of Ta Pao; stay overnight to add another stop.

Visiting etiquette

• Dress modestly and speak softly inside the church.
• Do not walk around or take photos disruptively during Mass; follow the stewards' guidance.
• Keep the grounds clean and park in designated areas.

Families can take a 7-seater; groups a 16-seater up to a 45-seater. See vehicle rental for parish pilgrimages. The driver waits during Mass; chauffeur prices include fuel and tolls; every quote gets 10% off.

FAQ

Can non-Catholics visit?

These places welcome all visitors; simply dress and behave respectfully.

Can we do Nui Cui and Song Vinh in one day?

They lie in different directions, so it is rushed. We will suggest a route around the Mass you wish to attend.

Is Christmas a good time?

Beautiful but busy; leave early and book ahead.

Practical tips for a church visit

Wear modest clothes covering shoulders and knees, keep quiet during Mass and check Mass times before leaving. Large feast days bring crowds and full car parks.

For a group, agree one meeting point at the car park and a fixed return time.

See Tết day trips and Tay Ninh day trip.

Quick answers

Can we visit two shrines in one day? Yes if they are on the same route.

Is photography allowed? Usually outside Mass; follow local signs.

If you are planning a nearby route, Visiting temples on Tết 2027 New Year's Eve and Day by private car in Ho Chi Minh City has more details to help you prepare.