Independence Palace
The palace designed by architect Ngo Viet Thu, linked to the events of 30 April 1975. The offices, command bunker and exhibition rooms are preserved; the price list applies from 1 August 2025.
War Remnants Museum
The museum at 28 Vo Van Tan shows documents, photos and objects about the Vietnam War. Some rooms contain very distressing images; parents should consider this with young children.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon
The red-brick cathedral built in the late 19th century on Paris Commune Square. It is under major restoration with scaffolding outside, but still welcomes visitors for mass and sightseeing at set times.
Saigon Central Post Office
The French-era post office opposite the cathedral, still handling postal services. The main hall has a vaulted roof and old maps on the walls.
Ben Thanh Market
The market with the famous clock tower in the centre, selling fabric, souvenirs, specialities and with a food area. Ask prices before buying.
Saigon Opera House
An early 20th-century French theatre at the top of Dong Khoi street. You can only go inside with a show ticket; prices depend on the programme.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street
A pedestrian boulevard linking City Hall with the Saigon River. Busy in the evening, often with street performances at weekends.
Saigon Skydeck (Bitexco Tower)
The 49th-floor observation deck of Bitexco Tower, overlooking the Saigon River and the centre. Go in the late afternoon to see both day and night views.
Jade Emperor Pagoda (Phuoc Hai Tu)
A pagoda founded by the Chinese community in the early 20th century on Mai Thi Luu street, mixing Buddhist and Taoist elements. Full of wooden statues and incense; please be quiet.
Binh Tay Market
A long-established wholesale market in Cholon with a central courtyard and tiled roofs. Mostly dried goods, spices and household items wholesale; go in the morning when it is lively.
Cu Chi Tunnels – Ben Dinh
The wartime tunnel network site about 60–70 km north-west of the centre. Some sections have been widened so visitors can try crawling through, plus displays of traps and weapons.
Can Thanh town – Can Gio beach
The seaside town at the end of Rung Sac road, known for its seafood market and silty beach. Usually combined with the Can Gio mangrove forest on the same day.
Map of the places
Request pickup or drop-off near the places listed in this guide. Staff confirm the accessible meeting point, travel date, vehicle and quote before booking.
Choose a place from the list to view its location on Google Maps. Use the Directions link on each place card to plan your journey.
Where to stay
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Good to know
- Visit the Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Post Office in one morning, as they are only a few hundred metres apart.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral is still under restoration with scaffolding outside; check opening hours before going in.
- For Cu Chi, leave before 8 am to avoid heat and crowds; wear practical clothes if you want to crawl into a tunnel.
- For Can Gio, allow time to wait for the Binh Khanh ferry, especially at weekends.
- Avoid the rush hours of about 7–9 am and 4–7 pm when moving between districts.
Frequently asked questions
How much is the Independence Palace ticket?
According to the official site, from 1 August 2025 it is 40,000 VND per adult, or 80,000 VND including the exhibition; open 7:00–18:00 daily.
For Cu Chi, should I choose Ben Dinh or Ben Duoc?
Ben Dinh is closer to the centre and popular with visitors; Ben Duoc also has a memorial temple. They are about 13 km apart, so choose one if you only have half a day.
Can I visit inside Notre-Dame Cathedral?
The cathedral is still being restored, but according to Dan Tri (March 2026) it is open for mass and visits; check opening hours before you go.
How do I drive to Can Gio?
From the centre, head to Nha Be, cross the Binh Khanh ferry and follow Rung Sac road to Can Thanh, about 50–60 km; allow extra time for the ferry at weekends.
Real cars at the Car Rental Vietnam depot
Other destinations
Services and information for your trip
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