Ho Chi Minh City Hall
A magnificent French colonial landmark in District 1, admired for its stunning architecture and central location.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light for photos
Ho Chi Minh City Hall
Best Time
Fewer crowds, soft light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent French colonial landmark in District 1, admired for its stunning architecture and central location.
"A beautiful building, a must-see in Ho Chi Minh City!"
📸 Perfect Photo Op
Capture stunning photos from across the street, especially during golden hour.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the Saigon Central Post Office and other District 1 sights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
French Colonial Architecture
A magnificent example of French colonial design, this building is a visual masterpiece. Its grandeur is captivating.
Central Location
Strategically located in District 1, it's a central point for exploring other nearby attractions.
Illuminated Evening Views
The City Hall is beautifully lit up at night, offering a different, enchanting perspective.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Admire from the Outside
Prime Photo Spot
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Perfect Photo Op
Capture stunning photos from across the street, especially during golden hour.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the Saigon Central Post Office and other District 1 sights.
🌃 Evening Glow
The building is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for an evening stroll.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Perfect Photo Op
Capture stunning photos from across the street, especially during golden hour.
🚶♀️ Explore Nearby
Combine your visit with the Saigon Central Post Office and other District 1 sights.
🌃 Evening Glow
The building is beautifully lit at night, making it a great spot for an evening stroll.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ho Chi Minh City Hall for its stunning French colonial architecture and its prime location in District 1. It's a highly photogenic landmark, especially when illuminated at night. However, the primary drawback is the lack of public access to the interior, as it functions as a government building.
"Some kind of gated apartments, I think. Walls and security guard."
Justin van Schaick
"Ok"
Việt Hùng Nguyễn
"Good"
Tri Ho Trong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ho Chi Minh City Hall is centrally located in District 1. You can easily reach it by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Grab, or by walking if you're staying nearby. It's a common landmark, so most drivers will know it.
Parking can be challenging in this busy district. It's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport. If you drive, look for designated parking areas or garages, but be prepared for potential fees.
If you're exploring District 1, walking is a great option. It's close to other attractions like the Saigon Central Post Office and Notre Dame Cathedral, making it easy to incorporate into a walking tour.
Ride-sharing apps like Grab are very popular and convenient for getting around District 1. Taxis are also readily available. For shorter distances, walking is highly recommended to soak in the city's atmosphere.
While there isn't a direct metro line to the City Hall, many bus routes pass through or near District 1. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, you do not need tickets to visit Ho Chi Minh City Hall. It's an exterior landmark that you can admire from the outside.
Generally, the interior of Ho Chi Minh City Hall is not open to the public for tourism. It functions as a government building.
You can view the Ho Chi Minh City Hall from the outside at any time. It's particularly beautiful when illuminated at night.
There is no entrance fee to view Ho Chi Minh City Hall from the surrounding public areas.
While you can view it from the outside, be respectful of its function as a government building. Avoid blocking entrances or causing disturbances.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings offer soft, beautiful light and fewer crowds. Late afternoons during the 'golden hour' provide a warm glow. Evenings are great for capturing the illuminated building.
The best vantage point is typically from across the street, on the main boulevard. This allows you to capture the entire facade and the statue of Ho Chi Minh.
Drone photography is generally restricted in urban areas and around government buildings in Vietnam. It's best to avoid using drones to prevent issues.
The grand staircase and the facade are iconic. The statue of Ho Chi Minh in front also makes for a classic photo.
For daylight shots, use a moderate aperture for sharpness. For evening shots, a tripod and longer exposure will help capture the lights effectively.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Saigon Central Post Office where kids might enjoy sending postcards, or explore Nguyen Hue Walking Street for open space and street performers. The area is generally safe for walking, but always keep an eye on children in busy areas.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Aim for the 'golden hour' in the late afternoon for warm, flattering light, or capture the building's stunning illumination at night. The wide boulevard in front provides an unobstructed view, perfect for wide-angle shots. Consider visiting early morning to avoid crowds and capture the building in serene light.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: French Colonial Grandeur
Visitors often highlight the intricate details and the sheer scale of the building. While access inside is restricted as it serves as a government administrative center, its exterior beauty is more than enough to impress. The surrounding area is also well-maintained, contributing to the overall picturesque setting. Many travelers find it to be a peaceful and visually striking landmark amidst the bustling city.
For the best experience, consider visiting during different times of the day. The morning light offers a softer, more diffused illumination, perfect for detailed shots. Late afternoon provides the warm hues of the 'golden hour,' ideal for dramatic and vibrant photographs. In the evening, the City Hall is beautifully illuminated, transforming it into a magical sight.
A Central Hub for Exploration
Just a short stroll away, you'll find the iconic Saigon Central Post Office, another architectural gem designed by Gustave Eiffel, and the historic Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon. The vibrant Nguyen Hue Walking Street is also nearby, offering a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings. This proximity allows for a cohesive itinerary, combining historical sites with modern city life.
Many travelers recommend planning a route that includes the City Hall as part of a broader exploration of District 1. This approach not only saves time on transportation but also allows for a deeper appreciation of the city's colonial past and its present-day dynamism. The area around the City Hall is also dotted with cafes and shops, providing ample opportunities for breaks and local experiences.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit