Why to visit The Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
The Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is a beautiful example of French colonial architecture in Ho Chi Minh City. There are towering spires and intricate details, which make this cathedral one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, or religious sites.
What’s special about Notre Dame Cathedral
- It was built in the late 19th century. The cathedral features a classic French Gothic design with red bricks, stained-glass windows, and tall spires.
- The cathedral is an important religious site for local Catholics and serves as a symbol of the city's colonial past.
- It is located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, and this cathedral is an easy stop while exploring other nearby attractions.
Things to do in Notre Dame Cathedral
- Admire the cathedral’s beautiful exterior and stunning stained-glass windows.
- If you’re in town on Sunday, consider attending a Mass service to experience the cathedral’s spiritual atmosphere.
- The cathedral’s grand structure makes it a perfect spot for photographs.
Unknown facts about Notre Dame Cathedral
- The bricks used to build the cathedral were imported from France, and it took 6 years (1877-1883) to complete.
- The cathedral’s two spires are each 58 meters tall, which makes it one of the tallest buildings in the city.
Entry fee
- Free
Timings
- Open daily: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Average duration to explore
- 30 minutes to 1 hour
Distance from key locations
- From Ben Thanh Market: 0.5 km, about 5 minutes by car.
- From Tan Son Nhat International Airport: 7 km, approximately 20 minutes by car.
Nearby tourist spots
- Saigon Central Post Office (0.5 km)
- Reunification Palace (1 km)
- War Remnants Museum (1.5 km)
