Exploring Notre-Dame Basilica: Saigon’s Iconic Landmark in Ho Chi Minh City

A Symbol of Saigon’s Heritage
Nestled at 1 Cong Xa Paris in Ward 1, Notre-Dame Basilica stands as Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmark, drawing millions to its French colonial grandeur. Built from 1877 to 1880, this Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece, designed by architect J. Bourard, reflects Saigon’s multicultural past under French rule. Though Christianity is a minority religion in Vietnam, the basilica’s twin 57m bell towers and Our Lady of Peace statue make it a cultural beacon in a 6,772 km² megacity. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, offer a sustainable way to explore this historic gem, supporting local communities. Step into Saigon’s heart—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or sales@legendtravelgroup.com! TripAdvisor Ho Chi Minh City

Administrative Update
Vietnam recently merged Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau into Ho Chi Minh City, creating a 6,772 km² megacity with 13.7 million residents across 168 wards, including District 1 now Ward 1. This reorganization enhances access to Notre-Dame Basilica with Metro Line 1, electric buses, and cycling paths, connecting Ward 1’s historic core to Ward 5’s Cholon and suburban Can Gio, enriching Saigon’s tourism landscape. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers immersive, eco-conscious tours to Notre-Dame Basilica and Saigon’s cultural landmarks. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, guided by experts sharing the basilica’s colonial history. Supporting communities in Ward 1, Ward 5, and Thu Duc, we align with the city’s “Green Metropolis” vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless experience. Book our eco-tours via links on this page and explore sustainably! TripAdvisor Reviews

Located at 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ward 1, ~1,730 km south of Hanoi, Notre-Dame Basilica thrives in Ho Chi Minh City’s tropical monsoon climate: dry season (December–April, 25–35°C or 77–95°F) and rainy season (May–November, 23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F), with peak rainfall in June–September (150–400 mm). Built from 1877 to 1880 by French architect J. Bourard, this basilica, often misnamed a cathedral, spans 91m long and 35m wide, with twin 57m bell towers. Its Romanesque facade, Gothic interior arches, and French-imported materials (e.g., Marseille tiles) make it a colonial masterpiece. Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free entry (donations $0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND), it’s a cultural hub near Ben Thanh Market, accessible via Metro Line 1.

In August 1876, French Governor Duperré launched a design competition for a new church to serve Cochinchina’s Catholic community and promote Western influence. Architect J. Bourard’s Romanesque-Gothic design won over 17 competitors, and construction began on October 7, 1877, with Bishop Isidore Colombert laying the first stone. Completed by April 11, 1880, for Easter, the basilica cost ~2.5 million French francs, funded by colonial reserves. Initially called the State Church, it was managed by the French until 1959. In 1903, a bronze statue of Bishop Pigneau de Béhaine and Prince Canh was erected, removed in 1945. In 1959, Father Joseph Van Thien installed an Italian-marble Virgin Mary statue, titled Our Lady of Peace, blessed by Cardinal Agagianian on February 17, 1959, renaming the church Notre-Dame Basilica. Spires were added to the bell towers in 1895, and a Swiss clock, installed in 1887, remains functional. Preserved through wars, it stands as Saigon’s enduring symbol.

Notre-Dame Basilica is a French colonial masterpiece, blending Romanesque and Gothic styles:

• Exterior: Romanesque facade with red Marseille tiles, two 57m bell towers with 1895 spires, and a 1-ton Swiss clock from 1887, framed by a flower garden in Paris Commune Square.

• Interior: Gothic pointed arches, a 91m-long nave, and two side aisles with stained-glass windows from France. The main hall, 35m wide, features a semicircular apse and five chapels.

• Materials: French-imported bricks, tiles, cement, and steel support a modern frame, with oriental-style multicolored glass adding Eastern flair.

• Bell System: Six bells weighing 28,850 kg, housed in the towers, once the city’s highest point at 10m above sea level.

• Statue: The 4m Our Lady of Peace statue (1959), atop a marble pedestal, overlooks the square, a focal point for visitors.

• Design: Symmetrical layout with a cross-shaped basilica plan, high ceilings, and climate-adapted ventilation, reflecting East-West architectural synergy.

Its open, fenceless design makes it a landmark visible from all angles, a cultural icon in Ward 1.

• Location: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ward 1, opposite Paris Commune Square, 500m from Ben Thanh Market.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–5:00 PM (closed during services, typically Sunday mornings).

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Access: Enter via the main facade; no photography during services; non-flash photos permitted.

• Guided Tours: Join our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for expert-led insights into the basilica’s history and architecture, with eco-friendly transport.

Tip: Visit early morning for serene photos; respect silence during prayers.

Notre-Dame Basilica in Ward 1 is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City’s transport hub:

• By Air: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), in Tan Binh Ward, serves 40 million passengers annually via Terminal T3 (Vietnam Airlines domestic) and T1/T2. Round-trip costs:

  • Hanoi: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • Bangkok/Singapore: $200–$500.

  • Taxis/Grab to Ward 1 (7 km): $5–$8 (120,000–200,000 VND).

• By Bus: From Hanoi (30–34 hours, $35–$60 or 875,000–1,500,000 VND), Da Nang (18–22 hours, $20–$40 or 500,000–1,000,000 VND), or Can Tho (3–4 hours, $5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND). Local bus #109 to Ward 1: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• By Train: Saigon Railway Station in Ward 7 connects to Hanoi (30–34 hours, $40–$80 or 1,000,000–2,000,000 VND). A high-speed rail is planned for 2030.

Getting to Notre-Dame Basilica:

• Metro Line 1: Ben Thanh Station (500m away), $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND), 5-minute walk.

• Bus #109: Stops at Quach Thi Trang Square, 7-minute walk, $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1; use Vinasun or Mai Linh.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), ideal for Ward 1’s flat streets.

• Walking: 10-minute walk from Independence Palace (700m).

Tip: Use bicycles for eco-friendly travel; book our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for guided access.

The dry season (December–April) offers sunny weather (25–35°C or 77–95°F), ideal for photographing the basilica’s facade and exploring Paris Commune Square. Tet (January–February) brings festive decorations but crowded surroundings. The rainy season (May–November) features cooler temperatures (23–32°C or 73.4–89.6°F) and 15–25% tour discounts, with indoor basilica visits perfect during showers. Morning visits (8:00 AM–10:00 AM) ensure quieter exploration, while Christmas season adds festive lights but higher foot traffic.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet; visit mornings for serene views. Check AccuWeather for rainy season updates.

Pack these essentials for a comfortable experience:

• Clothing: Lightweight outfits for dry season; waterproof jackets for rainy season. Modest attire (covered shoulders, long pants) for basilica entry.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat for square strolls.

• Footwear: Comfortable shoes for walking; sandals for warm days; waterproof shoes for rainy season.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella, mosquito repellent.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Maps.me, Grab app, portable charger, camera for photos (non-flash inside).

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to support sustainability.

Tip: Carry small VND notes for donations; respect no-photography rules during services.

1. Saigon Central Post Office, Ward 1

Across the street at 2 Cong Xa Paris, this 1891 French colonial building features Gothic arches and a Gustave Eiffel-designed frame, a bustling postal hub.

• Cost: Free; postcards $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Tip: Send a postcard; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

2. Independence Palace, Ward 1

Walk 700m to 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia for this 1966 modernist palace, a symbol of Vietnam’s 1975 reunification.

• Cost: Adults $3.45 (80,000 VND); children $0.85 (20,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–4:30 PM.

• Tip: Explore the bunker; included in our Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

3. Ben Thanh Market, Ward 1

Stroll 500m to 4 Phan Boi Chau for this 1914 market, offering souvenirs and Bún Riêu Gánh’s crab soup.

• Cost: Free; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Try local snacks; included in our Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75).

4. War Remnants Museum, Ward 3

A 15-minute walk to 28 Vo Van Tan, this museum chronicles Vietnam’s war history with poignant exhibits.

• Cost: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:30 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Allow 2 hours; included in our Saigon Historical Tour ($50–$70).

5. Thien Hau Pagoda, Ward 5

A 10-minute Grab ($2 or 50,000 VND) to 710 Nguyen Trai, this 1760 temple showcases Chinese architecture.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: Visit for cultural insights; included in our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70).

Attraction Costs

• Notre-Dame Basilica: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

• Saigon Central Post Office: Free; postcards $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Independence Palace: $3.45 (80,000 VND) adults.

• Ben Thanh Market: Free; food $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• War Remnants Museum: $1.70 (40,000 VND).

• Thien Hau Pagoda: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).

Transportation

• Metro Line 1: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).

• Bus #109: $0.55–$0.80 (15,000–20,000 VND).

• Grab/Taxi: $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND) within Ward 1; $2 (50,000 VND) to Ward 5.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND).

Dining (Nearby)

• Street Food: $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Drinks: $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

Accommodation (Ward 1)

• Hostels: $8–$20/night (200,000–500,000 VND).

• Hotels: $25–$80/night (625,000–2,000,000 VND).

• Resorts: $100–$250/night (2,500,000–6,250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost

• Budget: $15–$40 (includes donations, metro, street food).

• Mid-range: $40–$80 (includes tours, Grab, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$300 (includes private tours, upscale lodging).

Tip: Carry VND for donations; ATMs are widespread in Ward 1.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222, sales@legendtravelgroup.com) 3–5 weeks ahead, especially for Tet or Christmas.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Use sunscreen; visit mornings for clear photos.

  • Rainy Season: Carry raincoats ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND); explore indoor basilica.

• Photography: Use non-flash cameras; capture the facade at sunrise; no photos during services.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in Paris Commune Square; secure valuables.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles; support local cafes near Ben Thanh Market.

• Navigation: Download Maps.me, Grab; save Notre-Dame Basilica (1 Cong Xa Paris, Ward 1) as a landmark.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly; maintain silence inside; say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); avoid street food if sensitive.

Our sustainable tours showcase Notre-Dame Basilica and Saigon’s heritage:

• Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70/person): Notre-Dame Basilica, Saigon Central Post Office, Thien Hau Pagoda. Includes Metro Line 1, guide, lunch.

• Saigon Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Notre-Dame Basilica, Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum. Includes bike rentals, guide, snacks.

• Saigon Foodie Tour ($55–$75/person): Notre-Dame Basilica, Ben Thanh Market, Cholon street food. Includes eco-transfers, guide, meals.

• Saigon Historical Escape ($200–$350/person, 2–3 days): Notre-Dame Basilica, Cu Chi Tunnels, Can Gio Mangrove Forest. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links on this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Notre-Dame Basilica, Saigon’s iconic landmark in Ward 1, offers a captivating glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s colonial and cultural heritage. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through this architectural gem, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience alongside nearby attractions, supporting local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Saigon adventure today!
Ready to marvel at Notre-Dame Basilica’s timeless beauty? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant history!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group