Top 10 Impressive French Architectures in Saigon

Ben Thanh Market is located in the heart of the city, at the intersection of Ham Nghi Avenue and Tran Hung Dao Street. This central location facilitates bustling trading activities. The market has existed since before the French occupation of Gia Dinh. Initially, the market was situated on the banks of the Ben Nghe River, near a river port close to Gia Dinh (then called Quy Citadel, also known as Bát Quái Citadel). This port was used for travelers and soldiers entering the citadel, hence the name Ben Thanh, and the market area was named Ben Thanh Market.

Ben Thanh Market today is considered an icon of Saigon, a place that everyone wants to visit when traveling here. The construction was undertaken by the French contractor Brossard et Maupin in 1912. With a history of over 100 years, enduring many storms and challenges, the beauty of the market has not faded much, maintaining its ancient charm.

Constructed in 1870, Ben Thanh Market was originally named Les Halles Centrales before being renamed Ben Thanh in 1912. Despite many ups and downs, it is now one of the oldest markets in Saigon. Ben Thanh Market is not only a historical landmark but also the most modern market, where you can buy anything you desire. If you want to learn about the people of Saigon, come and explore here.

Address: Le Loi, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Right next to Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon with its French architectural style is the Central Post Office Saigon. This structure is distinctive for its design that not only carries European influences but also combines elements of Asian architecture, creating a unique blend of unfamiliar yet welcoming beauty. It's not just a place for people to exchange letters and parcels but also a venue for selling local goods, introducing Vietnamese culture to visitors far and wide.

The facade of the post office is adorned with plaques bearing the names of some French luminaries such as Laplace, Voltaire, Arage, along with some familiar decorative square boxes. At the arch of the building, there is a large clock. Upon entering, you'll see high walls on both sides showcasing two historical maps of Saigon, Gothic architecture, and over 35 customer service counters. Currently, the place also has souvenir stalls offering handmade products with a strong Vietnamese identity. Located in the city's central area, the unique beauty of the city's post office building is emphasized. In front of it is Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon with its towering bell tower. Looking to the sides, you'll see modern high-rise buildings. This harmonious combination turns this place into a destination that exudes both ancient charm and the vibrancy of modern life.

Address: 2 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is also one of the most famous landmarks in Saigon. Located in Cong xa Paris Square (Ben Nghe Ward, District 1). The cathedral was built in 1887 and designed by a French architect named Bonard. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is modeled after the design of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, so many people mistakenly feel like they are in Paris when they enter Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.

This is a very attractive spot for young people to check-in, with many beautiful wedding photos taken here, attracting the lenses of professional photographers due to its ancient beauty. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is considered a masterpiece of urban architecture in Saigon. If you travel to Saigon and don't visit Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, it's like you haven't experienced all of Saigon.

Address: 01 Cong xa Paris, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Located in a convenient location in the city center, this is considered the central, versatile theater specializing in organizing artistic stage performances and is also used to host some major events. This theater follows the architecture of Western Europe. The front door is strongly influenced by the art of Petit Palais built in France in the same year. The interior design is modern with full equipment for sound and light. In addition to the ground floor, there are 2 upper floors with a total of 1800 seats.

All the decorative patterns, front façade reliefs, and furniture are drawn by a famous artist in France, resembling the patterns of theaters in France in the late 19th century and sent from France. Municipal Theatre in Ho Chi Minh City is located on Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The theater is considered a central theater specializing in organizing artistic stage performances and is also used to host some major events. This is an old-fashioned theater in the style of the Empire architecture.

Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

This is a project based on the bell tower design of Northern France, created by designer Gardes in 1898 until 1909, the project was completed. During the French colonial period, the project had many different names and became the administrative center of HCMC People's Committee as it is today.

In front of the Committee's headquarters is a solemn statue of Uncle Ho, placed prominently for visitors to easily admire. Around it are lotus ponds, 36 white porcelain trees, and many beautiful flowers. This is the brain center of Ho Chi Minh City, where high-ranking state officials work. On occasions, visit this beautiful work at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Address: 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Independence Palace, formerly known as Norodom Palace, was built on 23/2/1968, designed by architect Hermite, and completed in 1872. The large construction is located on an area of ​​over 12 hectares, with a capacity of up to 800 people. The materials to build Independence Palace were mainly transported from France.

Independence Palace is a historical testament reminding the people of Saigon in particular and the Vietnamese nation about the glorious past. Visit Independence Palace to feel the ancient yet luxurious and splendid features. You can visit Independence Palace at Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street (Ben Thanh, District 1).

Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Nha Rong Wharf is an important and famous historical site. Here, Uncle Ho embarked on the journey to save the country in 1911. The structure is a unique combination of Western and Eastern cultural architecture. The curved roof and two dragons above symbolize the strength of the nation, showing powerful dignity on par with countries around the world.

After 1975, to commemorate Uncle Ho's contributions, Nha Rong Wharf was renovated and exhibited typical historical artifacts. This historical site attracts many tourists, not only for its historical significance but also for bringing the image of Uncle Ho to friends worldwide. Nha Rong Wharf is located at Nguyen Tat Thanh, Ward 12, Ho Chi Minh City.

Address: 01 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City

Located at 10 – 112 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Saigon Vintage Mansion is one of the most beautiful structures in Saigon. What makes it special is not only its French architecture but also all construction materials imported from France. With predominant antique features, visiting here gives you a feeling as if you are passing through buildings in the capital of France.

Address: 10 – 112 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Constructed in 1972 based on the design by architect Delaval, the museum features the architectural style of 'Indochina modern.' The museum not only exhibits historical artifacts but is also a significant historical artifact itself. Visit the museum to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam's history and the history of nations that have invaded Vietnam. It serves as a valuable place for historical research and learning.

Address: The Vietnam History Museum is located at 25/2 Nguyen Binh Khiem, Ben Nghe, Ho Chi Minh City

Continental Hotel is one of the famous architectural landmarks in Saigon. It holds a prominent place in Ho Chi Minh City's history, located at 132 - 134 Dong Khoi Street. The hotel's construction began in 1878 during the French colonial period, initiated by Mr. Pierre Cazeau, a builder and supplier of construction materials. Mr. Cazeau aimed to establish a luxurious hotel to welcome French tourists arriving in Saigon after a long sea voyage from the 'motherland.' The construction took two years, and the Continental Hotel was inaugurated in 1880.

Address: 132 - 134 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City