Right in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, the Saigon Central Post Office is hard to miss. Its bright yellow walls and charming French colonial design make it one of the city’s most iconic spots. But here’s the best part: it’s not just for photos. The post office is still fully operational, so you can send postcards to friends and family while soaking up history. Whether you love architecture, history, or simply want a fun photo spot, this place is a must-see.
What can you find in this travel blog?
- History of the Saigon Central Post Office
- Why Visit Saigon Central Post Office?
- Central Post Office and What to Explore
- Nearby Attractions to Explore
- Suggested Itineraries
- Practical Tips
- FAQs
History of the Saigon Central Post Office
The Saigon Central Post Office was built between 1886 and 1891, during the French colonial period. The project was designed by Gustave Eiffel’s firm (yes, the same engineer behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris), though some records also credit French architect Alfred Foulhoux.
The building was more than just a post office. It was a symbol of modernity at the time, showcasing European design and technology in the heart of Saigon. With its mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and French Baroque styles, it quickly became one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Inside, you’ll still find maps from the late 19th century, showing Saigon and its surrounding regions. These maps remind us how important the post office was for communication and trade when Vietnam was part of French Indochina.
Even today, it remains fully functional as locals still come here to send letters and parcels, blending history with everyday life.
Visitor Information & Tips
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Location: 2 Công xã Paris, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
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Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
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Entrance fee: Free
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Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and better light
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Advice: Dress modestly, keep your belongings safe, and note that international postcards may take several weeks to arrive
How to Get There
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Taxi/Grab: Fast and convenient from anywhere in the city
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Motorbike: Accessible with nearby parking
Why Visit Saigon Central Post Office?
Saigon Central Post Office isn’t just a stop for photos, it’s a window into the city’s past and a chance to feel its soul. The building is one of the most striking examples of French colonial architecture in Vietnam, and stepping inside is like stepping back in time.
Here’s why it’s worth your time:
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Architectural beauty: From the bright yellow façade to the grand vaulted ceilings, every corner begs for a photo.
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Living history: The old wooden telephone booths and historical maps tell stories of communication before smartphones ever existed.
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Cultural connection: The portrait of Ho Chi Minh at the center adds a local touch that ties the building to Vietnam’s identity.
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Perfect location: Right across from Notre Dame Cathedral, you can explore two landmarks in one visit.
Whether you’re an architecture fan, a history lover, or just curious about Saigon’s charm, this post office makes your journey richer and more memorable.
Central Post Office and What to Explore
Exterior Architecture
The first thing you’ll notice is the bright yellow façade shining in the middle of District 1. Its grand arched windows and decorative carvings reflect classic French elegance. Because of this, the building is a favorite spot for photographers and a perfect way to start your visit.
Interior Vaulted Ceilings
As you step inside and look up, the soaring vaulted ceilings with graceful arches immediately catch your eye. Combined with the decorative ironwork and colonial-style details, the space feels both open and nostalgic. It almost feels like you’re stepping back in time.
Wooden Telephone Booths & Counters
Moving further in, you’ll see vintage wooden telephone booths and counters. They are still functional today and show how people used to communicate more than a hundred years ago. These details add charm to the building and make for great photo opportunities.
Central Hall & Portrait of Ho Chi Minh
At the heart of the post office is the bustling central hall. A large portrait of Ho Chi Minh hangs proudly above, while old maps of Saigon line the walls. Together, they bring both history and culture into the experience, reminding visitors of the city’s story.
Souvenir Shops & Stalls
Along both sides of the hall, you’ll find small souvenir shops. Here, you can browse postcards, handicrafts, and even the well-known Miss Saigon perfumes. These items make thoughtful gifts or personal keepsakes, so don’t miss the chance to take one home.
Notable Decorative Details
Finally, take a closer look at the tiled floors, wrought-iron structures, and ceiling patterns. The mix of Gothic, Renaissance, and French Baroque influences is clear in every corner. Because of this, architecture lovers will find the post office an endless source of fascination.
Nearby Attractions to Explore
Since the Saigon Central Post Office sits right in District 1, you don’t need to stop at just one landmark. You can turn your visit into a full day of exploring nearby highlights.
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Independence Palace: Step into Vietnam’s modern history as you walk through its preserved rooms and see where big events once took place.
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Ben Thanh Market: Colorful, busy, and full of energy, this market is the perfect spot to browse souvenirs or taste local snacks.
- Notre Dame Cathedral: Admire its stained glass and French colonial architecture. Currently under renovation until 2027.
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Cao Dai Temple: A little outside the city center, this temple is unlike any other with its bright colors and mix of different faiths. It’s a fascinating cultural stop.
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Cu Chi Tunnels: If you have extra time, make a trip out to see the famous underground network used during the war. It’s both moving and eye-opening.
- Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A lively pedestrian area with cafés, entertainment, and people-watching opportunities.
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Some Museums in Ho Chi Minh City: If you’re a museum lover, don’t miss our guide to the city’s museums. It’s the best way to dive deeper into local culture and history. These museums sit in a lovely old building and tell the story of how Saigon grew into the city you see today.
Suggested Itineraries
Option 1 – Southern Vietnam Immersion (5 Days)
Begin your journey in Ho Chi Minh City by exploring the Saigon Central Post Office, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Ben Thanh Market. Admire the French colonial architecture, capture beautiful photos, and sample street food. Next, travel to the Mekong Delta, where you’ll cruise the tranquil rivers, explore floating markets, and meet locals in riverside villages. This itinerary offers a deep dive into southern culture, colonial history, and authentic daily life.
For full details and booking, check the Southern Vietnam 5-Day tour, which smoothly integrates all these experiences.
Option 2 – Full Vietnam Highlights (10 Days)
Start in Ho Chi Minh City, then travel north through Hoi An, Hue, and Hanoi. Along the way, discover ancient towns, imperial palaces, and bustling streets. Sample local cuisine and enjoy Vietnam’s diverse landscapes. This itinerary provides a complete view of Vietnam’s history, culture, and scenery, allowing you to experience both the south’s vibrancy and the north’s heritage.
Learn more and plan your journey with the Vietnam 10-Day Highlights tour, which combines convenience with authentic local experiences.
Option 3 – Mekong Cruise & Indochina Adventure (21 Days)
Embark on a 3-week journey through Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. Travel the Mekong River, explore floating markets, riverside communities, and visit iconic sites like Angkor Wat.
Along the way, enjoy local cuisine, cultural experiences, and historic landmarks, creating an immersive adventure across Southeast Asia. Discover the full route and experiences with the Indochina 21-Day Adventure. Or, if you’d like, you can also enjoy a leisurely Mekong cruise with Luxury Mekong Cruises or combine the delta with other highlights of Vietnam and Indochina through Indochina Voyages’ customized tours. Both options make it easy to turn this itinerary into a truly memorable journey.
💡 At Vietnam Travel Online, we offer a wide range of Vietnam tours, so you can easily choose one that suits your style. Or let us design a journey from scratch, whether you dream of Vietnam’s rivers and mountains or the hidden gems of Indochina. Simply reach out to us at [email protected] or through this form to start planning your adventure today.
Practical Tips
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Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
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Dress & belongings: Wear modest clothing and carry small cash
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Photography tips: Focus on vaulted ceilings, exterior façade, decorative ironwork, and main hall
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Mailing postcards: Delivery may take several weeks
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Maximize your visit: Combine with nearby attractions for a full-day experience
FAQs
Are tickets required to enter the Saigon Central Post Office?
No, entry is free for all visitors.
How long should I plan to spend here?
A typical visit takes 30–60 minutes, depending on how much you explore.
Can I send international postcards from the post office?
Yes, postcards are available. Delivery may take several weeks.
What souvenirs can I buy here?
Postcards, local handicrafts, Miss Saigon perfumes, and other small gifts.
Is the post office accessible for visitors with mobility issues?
Mostly yes, though there are some stairs in certain areas.
