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The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House - with a history of development spanning hundreds of years - is regarded as the 'cradle of art' locally, where large-scale performances take place. Today, the Saigon Opera House is also a beloved 'Instagrammable' spot for many #teamKlook enthusiasts.
The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House (also known as the Saigon Opera House) - is one of the prominent examples of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Built in 1898 in a prime location in the Ho Chi Minh City central district. It is the venue for ballet, orchestra, and national opera performances, particularly famous for evening arts programs like À Ố Show, Teh Dar, and The Mist.
The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is an important cultural landmark recognized as a national relic in 2012. It is considered a multi-functional theater specializing in stage performances and also hosts some major events. Let's explore more interesting information about this impressive structure with Klook Vietnam!
Insight into Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
One of the city's most prominent landmarks, the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House was constructed in 1897 by French architect Eugene Ferret. In 1955, it was converted into the Southern Vietnam Assembly Hall and has undergone several renovations since. The opera house is only open to the public for visiting during major events. The building is a prime example of grand French colonial architecture. The Opera House is surrounded by a wide tree-lined boulevard, so distinctly European in style that you might need to remind yourself you're in Ho Chi Minh City, not Paris.
Viewed from afar, the building resembles a magnificent giant gate. However, many lines of text, reliefs, decorative details, and stone-carved statues at the entrance were dismantled in 1943, criticized for being overly elaborate and ornate.
Today, the stone veranda, white stone statues at the entrance, tiled floors, chandeliers, bronze statues on the staircase once again enrich the exterior and interior architecture of the building. But undoubtedly, the most precious highlight of the structure still belongs to the intricately carved dome and wall statues.
Address of Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
- Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is located at: 02 Cong Xa Paris, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Due to its central location, for convenient transportation, you should come here by walking, private motorbike, or technology motorbike taxi. During peak hours of the day, traffic around the Saigon Opera House often experiences congestion, leading to a sudden increase in transportation service prices. If traveling to Saigon in a large group (from 3 members), you can opt to rent a private car by the hour to optimize costs.
Opening Hours of Saigon Opera House
- Since the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House only opens to the public during events and performances, there is no fixed opening time.
Ticket Prices for Visiting Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
The opera house does not charge an entrance fee like other tourist attractions but will determine prices based on the type of program/event, time, and seating category. Many programs are performed at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House. Ticket prices vary depending on each performance but generally range from 200,000 VND to 2,000,000 VND.
Guide on How to Get to Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is close to many iconic landmarks of the city such as Saigon Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, etc. You can easily walk here or if you're farther away, taking a taxi, renting a motorbike could be convenient options.
Don't forget to consider renting a private car for the utmost flexibility while combining visits to other prominent attractions of Ho Chi Minh City in a day.
Artistic Performances at Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
As the home to the Symphony Orchestra, the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House offers various types of performances such as classical concerts, operas, ballets, Vietnamese traditional dances & modern dances, musicals, and more. Here are some famous programs held at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House for you to choose from:
1. À Ố Show
À Ố Show is a unique combination of bamboo circus, acrobatics, contemporary dance, traditional Vietnamese music, and stage art. The curious name 'À Ố' will leave many people wondering, it actually originates from the term 'Village Market'. The outstanding performance highlights the contrast between the graceful beauty and the rich culture of Vietnamese rural life and the urbanization race nationwide. This one-hour performance is an opportunity for those who want to transcend time and space to immerse themselves in the artistic life and emotions of Vietnam.
2. Teh Dar
Teh Dar Show invites the audience to the mesmerizing world of Vietnam's highland people with untold primitive stories. Described as a “circulating” journey in the language of the K'Ho highland tribe, the performance brings a unique blend of Vietnamese ethnic culture entertainment featuring stunning Bamboo Cirque and daring acrobatics combined with the sounds of traditional ethnic musical instruments on stage.
3. The Mist
The Mist tells you the story of the life of farmers in Southern Vietnam portrayed through classical and modern dance movements by skilled artists. Using rice cultivation as a metaphor, the program appreciates the dedication of farmers and their struggles to grow rice on muddy land. From the misty dawn on the fields to their emergence as shining gems during harvest.
Lasting for an emotionally charged hour, the program captivates the audience with countless ups and downs depicted by lively music, magnificent effects, and captivating lighting. Also indispensable are the barefoot performers, the simple yet elegant costumes, and the graceful ao ba ba, ao dai, and four-panel dresses.
History of Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
After the occupation of Cochinchina, the French government invited a theater troupe to perform in Saigon for the French troops in 1863. Initially, the performances took place at the wooden house of the Governor's Palace on the Clock Square (Place de l'Horloge) - the corner of Nguyen Du and Dong Khoi streets now. After a short time, a temporary theater was built on the site of the present-day Caravelle Hotel. In 1898, the construction of a new opera house commenced on the site of the old one and was inaugurated on January 1, 1900.
Between World War I and World War II, the city government covered all operating costs. Although the opera house was planned as entertainment for the growing middle class, the emergence of nightclubs, music bars, and dance halls gradually led to a decline in Saigon Opera House visitors. Therefore, performances were only occasionally presented during this period, some were concerts, and some were other traditional Vietnamese musical theater programs.
In 1943, some decorative items, carvings, and statues were removed from the facade of the opera house to give it a more youthful look.
In 1944, this location was bombed by aerial attacks from the Allied forces, causing Saigon Opera House to close due to severe damage.
In 1954, after the French military surrendered to the Viet Minh in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu leading to the Geneva Accords the same year, the opera house was then used as a temporary refuge for French civilians fleeing from North Vietnam.
In 1955, Saigon Opera House was renovated and functioned as the National Assembly House (later called the National Assembly of the Republic of Vietnam) of the Republic of Vietnam.
After 1975, Ho Chi Minh City Opera House resumed its original function as a venue for artistic performances.
In 1998, the city government undertook a major restoration to preserve the intact French architectural style of the opera house, commemorating 300 years since the establishment of Saigon. The extensive renovation project cost $1.7 million over 2 years from 1996 to 1998 to complete.
In 2005, an external lighting system was installed to provide stunning nighttime views for audiences to admire.
There used to be a small park in front of the opera house with a fountain. However, it was later removed to make way for the construction of the first subway project in Ho Chi Minh City, which commenced in 2008.
Recognized as a national heritage site in 2012, the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is now a renowned venue for various important events and cultural-entertainment activities of the city.
Architecture of the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
Saigon Opera House was constructed from 1898 on a total area of nearly 3200 m2 and completed in 1900. Its structure bears distinctive features characteristic of the work of the renowned architect Félix Olivier, under the supervision of two French architects - Ernest Guichard and Ferret Eugène. The architecture was inspired by the Palais Garnier and Petit Palais, both popular buildings in Paris at the time.
Externally, the house is adorned with grandeur and stone carvings at the entrance. It is elevated more than 2 meters (6.5 feet) above the street level and features a double door set to mitigate the traffic noise from outside.
Inside, there is a main seating area on the orchestra level plus two upper seating levels, each capable of accommodating 1800 people. The vaulted window system with towering balconies is designed in a classical French architectural style.
The interior decorative materials of the building such as polished granite floors, crystal chandeliers, stone sculptures, staircase handrails, and ceilings are all imported from France. The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is also equipped with modern electrical, lighting, and sound systems, ensuring that all sounds are preserved inside the theater.
Today, the capacity of the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is nearly 500 plush seats in an elegant oval-shaped auditorium with beautiful views from all sides.
The building stands out as one of the most splendid attractions in Saigon regardless of day or night. You can admire the grandeur of the illuminated house with colorful lights at night.
Famous Restaurants/Cafes near the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
Vietnam has long established its position as the number one culinary destination in Southeast Asia. In Ho Chi Minh City, strolling through any neighborhood, you will encounter the tantalizing aroma of countless dishes pouring out from street food stalls or open houses.
Near the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, in District 1, the culinary culture is inherently rich. Influential Saigon restaurants have opened their doors, turning Ho Chi Minh City into a mecca for international palates awaiting #teamKlook's exploration.
1. Tandoor
- Address: 39 Ngo Duc Ke, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 100,000đ - 550,000đ
Tandoor has emerged as the leading Indian cuisine restaurant near the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House and has been a favorite destination for Indians in the city for nearly two decades. Tandoor offers the highest quality, most authentic Indian cuisine you can enjoy in Vietnam.
Situated on bustling Ngo Duc Ke Street in District 1 of Saigon, close to the vibrant Nguyen Hue Walking Street, this location makes it an excellent spot for both domestic and international tourists who love fragrant curries, flatbreads, and other traditional Indian dishes.
Combining South Asian traditions and flavors into a harmonious whole on the menu at Tandoor Saigon. Here, you're sure to find something to suit everyone. From rich curries to fragrant breads or complex Indian desserts - Tandoor's secret lies in using fresh, quality ingredients and, most importantly, premium spices. In fact, most spices such as cumin, coriander powder, and garam masala used at Tandoor Saigon are imported directly from India.
2. Buffet Nineteen
- Address: 19 - 23 Lam Son Square, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 640,000đ - 1,100,000đ
Simple and cheerful, Nineteen Restaurant is a popular dining choice in Saigon with lavish buffet offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Located on the ground floor of the Caravelle Hotel in the city center of Ho Chi Minh City, the restaurant's array of seafood creates a wonderful dining experience at any time of the day. The lively atmosphere and diverse menu ensure that Nineteen remains a popular culinary destination.
Nineteen Restaurant has long been a familiar dining choice for both locals and tourists in Saigon. Indulge in a luxurious buffet with countless options! Try the salmon, haddock, crab, clams, and shrimp. For dessert, enjoy fried potatoes or crumbled peach.
3. Saigon Cafe Restaurant
- Address: 88 Dong Khoi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 800,000đ - 1,700,000đ
Situated within the prestigious 5-star Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers, Saigon Café utilizes locally sourced ingredients as a way to honor and express gratitude for nature and the hard work of local people. The premium seafood buffet introduces a plethora of coastal dishes expertly prepared by talented chefs.
#teamKlook will indulge in a culinary journey around the world through exquisite seafood, enticing Asian cuisine, Vietnamese specialties, delicious Western fare, Japanese, and Indian dishes. The creatively crafted drink menu must be explored, along with the delectable dessert selection.
Renowned as one of the city's top buffet restaurants, Saigon Café captivates connoisseurs with luxurious seafood feasts, boasting spacious and elegantly decorated surroundings, complemented by professional service.
4. Li Bai Restaurant
- Address: 80 Dong Du, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 100,000đ - 1,000,000đ
The Li Bai Restaurant at Sheraton Saigon Hotel & Towers is a regal-style dining venue named after a famous Chinese poet - Li Bai. Li Bai offers an excellent lunch buffet featuring 50 beloved Dim Sum dishes and a variety of porridges, soups, vegetables, fried rice, noodles, hot and cold desserts.
Li Bai also offers a range of set menus for travelers to fully enjoy the flavors of Cantonese cuisine. The dinner set menu includes dishes priced from 100,000 dong.
5. IL Corda Charcoal Steakhouse
- Address: 11 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 100,000đ - 500,000đ
A haven for meat enthusiasts has emerged in the heart of Saigon! Those who relish premium beef steaks and select wines will have an unforgettable dining experience. Located conveniently on Le Thanh Ton Street near the Saigon Opera House, in the vibrant “Little Tokyo” district of Saigon. IL Corda's unique charcoal-grilled Angus steak will impress even the most discerning palates.
Designed by Japanese designer Kensaku Yoshida, IL Corda features warm classic hardwood interiors reflecting the allure of tungsten light bulbs and enticing wine bottles, embodying the charm of a classic Japanese steakhouse.
If you come to IL Corda with a large group, you will be seated at a spacious communal table, accommodating up to 18 guests. This has made IL Corda the perfect choice for gatherings and group dinners after work. For an outdoor dining experience, the comfortable bar counter facing the tree-lined street on L1 provides you with a tranquil escape from bustling Saigon.
Beautiful Cafés Near Saigon Opera House
There are countless charming cafés in Saigon, ranging from budget-friendly to upscale, from classic to modern near the Saigon Opera House. If you're a coffee lover, District 1 will be your paradise. Let's explore the top 5 best cafés where you can relax and enjoy a cup of coffee in peaceful and romantic settings.
1. Rbar
- Address: 08 - 15 Ton Duc Thang, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City,
- Price Range: 100,000đ - 500,000đ
Rbar at Renaissance Riverside Hotel Saigon - Where you can start your day with a cup of coffee and end it with a cocktail. Rbar features the architectural beauty of the Renaissance period and a team of professional bartenders. The bar also offers a quick lunch menu and light snacks throughout the day, in a modern and airy setting, ideal for work or socializing.
2. Little HaNoi Egg Coffee
- Address: 119/5 Yersin, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City,
- Price Range: 50,000đ - 150,000đ
Little Hanoi is truly a sweet café... not only because of its excellent Hanoi-style Egg Coffee, but also its rare sincere and genuine atmosphere. A calm tranquility envelops you as soon as you step in through the small door of the café.
The combination of compact furniture, warm lighting, and earthy tones gives Little Hanoi a cozy and intimate feel. The high ceiling of the main room features various pottery items and interesting photographs. Meanwhile, the rear section is divided into a mezzanine that serves as a cozy reading area complete with bookshelves filled with books.
With such a wonderful ambiance, the star of this place is undoubtedly the Egg Coffee. It's meticulously prepared and so perfect that you'll feel like you're in Hanoi. Don't forget to pair the coffee with some delicious sandwiches, which you can buy as a combo.
All of this, along with the incredibly friendly and attentive staff, makes Little Hanoi Egg Coffee a café near the Saigon Opera House that you should visit.
3. Padma De Fleur
- Address: 55/6 Le Thi Hong Gam, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
- Price Range: 70,000đ - 150,000đ
Padma de Fleur, a café decorated in antique style, is nestled in a large alley on Le Thi Hong Gam Street, right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It's a café, restaurant, and flower shop all in one. So when you come here, you'll find a refreshing atmosphere filled with floral scents. The café mainly serves Vietnamese drinks and cuisine. Additionally, it regularly hosts flower arranging classes.
4. Above Sky Bar
- Address: 19th Floor Liberty City Point, 59 - 61 Pasteur Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 70,000đ - 200,000đ
Above Sky Bar is located on the 19th floor of Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint Hotel, quite close to the Saigon Opera House. Above Sky Bar features artistic design that provides relaxing moments and stunning views. It's consistently rated as one of the most beloved rooftop cafés not only by young Saigonese but also by Western visitors. It's where you can enjoy premium wines and cocktails.
5. Okkio Caffe
- Address: 122 Le Loi Street, Ben Than Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: 35,000đ - 70,000đ
If you're into nostalgia and want to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, head to Okkio Caffe. This café is located on the second floor, nestled beside Ben Thanh Market. Upon entering, you'll find a quaint and tranquil space blending classic charm with modern inspiration, giving you a cozy vibe. There's nothing better than enjoying a good cup of coffee with the soothing tunes of French music.
Luxury Hotels Near Saigon Opera House
Situated in the city's prime locations, these hotels in Ho Chi Minh City offer stunning views of the surrounding scenery from private balconies or rooftops. Regardless of where you're from and why you're visiting Ho Chi Minh City, whether it's to explore the city's historical and cultural landmarks or immerse yourself in its vibrant atmosphere, everyone agrees that staying in a hotel with a magnificent city view enhances their overall travel experience.
1. Hôtel des Arts Saigon
- Rating: 5-star
- Address: 76 - 78 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: From 3,200,000đ
With a nostalgic feel and artistic decor throughout, Hôtel des Arts is acclaimed as one of the most prestigious accommodations in Ho Chi Minh City. The Indochine theme is established from within the rooms to the lobby area and outdoor spaces. While the rooftop pool serves as a striking highlight of a modern, upscale, and vibrant Saigon.
2. Majestic Hotel
- Rating: 5-star
- Address: 01 Dong Khoi, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: From 2,000,000đ per night
Opened in 1925, Majestic Hotel asserts its historical position in the context of the booming hotel industry in Ho Chi Minh City. Despite its age surpassing historical eras, this French colonial architecture still looks magnificent. With 175 rooms and suites in classic styles, marble bathrooms, and private balconies. The central courtyard features a large swimming pool and a charming rooftop bar with views of the Saigon River.
3. Park Hyatt Saigon
- Rating: 5-star
- Address: 02 Lam Son Square, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: From 6,300,000đ per night
If you're seeking a hotel with a rich history, then this is the perfect choice. Park Hyatt Saigon formerly served as a U.S. military base during the Vietnam War and was the filming location where DJ Adrian Cronauer - portrayed by Robin Williams in the movie Good Morning Vietnam (1987) broadcasted. Besides its historical significance, the French colonial-style rooms and suites boast impressive beauty, blending elegant decor with modern amenities such as iPad minis and Nespresso coffee machines.
4. Fusion Suites Saigon
- Rating: 4-star
- Address: 17-19-21 Ly Tu Trong, District 1, Ben Nghe Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
- Price Range: From 1,200,000đ
A 1990s bank converted into a hotel sounds truly odd - and that's exactly the vibe that Fusion Suites Saigon is aiming for. Rooms are strategically positioned to catch beautiful morning sunlight, featuring modern furnishings and higher-floor rooms for stunning city views. All rooms come with luxurious bathtubs. Just a glass of wine and a chill photo in the bathtub and #teamKlook have successfully captured social media hearts.
Famous Attractions Near Ho Chi Minh City Opera House
Ho Chi Minh City Opera House, with its magnificent beauty in the city center, serves as a stage for various traditional and classical performances such as concerts, ballet, opera, drama, and traditional Vietnamese dance. It would be a significant miss for anyone visiting without stopping by this beautiful opera house.
For travelers, take a moment to sit down and immerse yourself in the emotional moments with the performances here. You'll not only have a meaningful time, away from the hustle and bustle of life, but also gain a deeper understanding and love for Vietnam. #teamKlook don't forget this is also a place where you can capture amazing 'Instagrammable' photos!! Head to the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House.
Nowadays, you have more choices of attractions to add to your itinerary beyond traditional tourist spots like Notre Dame Cathedral or Central Post Office,... Check out a variety of interesting destinations at Klook Vietnam such as: Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, Tao Dan Park, Giac Lam Pagoda, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, museums in Ho Chi Minh City, Cu Chi Tunnels,...
Additionally, there are hundreds of other exciting travel deals such as: Take the Hop On Hop Off Bus to explore the city, Cu Chi Tunnels Discovery Tour, Can Gio - Monkey Island Tour, SUP Experience on Saigon River, Dinner Cruise on Ben Nghe River in Ho Chi Minh City,...
A trip to Ho Chi Minh City will fulfill your expectations of a shining Southeast Asian hub. So why wait? #teamKlook, start planning your exciting journeys to explore the captivating beauty of Southern Vietnam right now!
Plan to 'nourish your soul' with some fantastic artistic performances at the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House!
