The History of Notre-Dame Basilica: Saigon’s Timeless Landmark in Ho Chi Minh City

A Chronicle of Saigon’s Colonial Past
Nestled at 1 Cong Xa Paris in Ward 1, Notre-Dame Basilica is Ho Chi Minh City’s enduring symbol of French colonial heritage, captivating visitors with its storied history. Constructed from 1877 to 1880 under French architect Jules Bourard, this basilica, often mistakenly called a cathedral, was built to serve Cochinchina’s Catholic community and showcase Western influence. From its groundbreaking by Bishop Isidore Colombert to the 1959 installation of the Our Lady of Peace statue, the basilica’s history mirrors Saigon’s evolution in a 6,772 km² megacity. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, using bicycles and Metro Line 1, offer a sustainable way to delve into this historical treasure, supporting local communities. Trace Saigon’s past—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 cultural landscape. The political center remains at 86 Le Thanh Ton, Ward 1.

Legend Travel Group, a premier Southeast Asia tour operator, offers curated, eco-conscious tours to uncover Notre-Dame Basilica’s history. Our tours use bicycles and low-emission vehicles, led by expert guides sharing Saigon’s colonial narratives. 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

Situated at 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ward 1, ~1,730 km south of Hanoi, Notre-Dame Basilica is a cornerstone of Ho Chi Minh City’s heritage, set in a 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 Jules Bourard, the basilica served Cochinchina’s Catholic community and symbolized French influence. Funded by ~2.5 million French francs, it was initially the State Church until 1959, when the Our Lady of Peace statue’s installation renamed it Notre-Dame Basilica, not a cathedral due to lacking a bishop’s seat. 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 historical gem near Ward 1’s Ben Thanh Market, accessible via Metro Line 1.

In August 1876, French Governor Victor Duperré initiated a design competition for a new church in Saigon to serve the Catholic faithful and promote Christianity and Western culture among locals. The project aimed to create a landmark that would enhance urban planning and showcase architectural diversity in colonial Cochinchina. Jules Bourard’s Romanesque-Gothic design triumphed over 17 competing proposals, aligning with Duperré’s vision of a cultural and religious symbol. The French colonial government, through its Cochinchina administration, oversaw the project’s funding and execution, with construction costs covered by colonial reserves, estimated at ~2.5 million French francs. This ambitious endeavor reflected France’s intent to establish a lasting presence in Saigon, making Notre-Dame Basilica a pivotal colonial project.

French architect Jules Bourard not only designed Notre-Dame Basilica but also supervised its construction, ensuring fidelity to his Romanesque-Gothic vision. On October 7, 1877, Bishop Isidore Colombert laid the first stone in a ceremonial groundbreaking attended by Cochinchina’s Vice Marshal and key colonial officials, marking the start of a three-year project. Bourard managed the import of materials from France, including red Marseille tiles, stained glass, and steel, to craft a durable and ornate structure. By April 11, 1880, coinciding with Easter, Colombert led the basilica’s dedication and inauguration, joined by Governor Le Myre de Vilers, celebrating its completion as a symbol of French influence. The construction, funded by ~2.5 million French francs from Cochinchina reserves, was a testament to colonial engineering and ambition.

Notre-Dame Basilica’s construction was a monumental effort driven by French colonial resources and expertise:

• Funding: The project cost ~2.5 million French francs, fully covered by Cochinchina’s colonial reserves, including construction and interior decorations.

• Materials: Most materials were imported from France, including red Marseille tiles for the facade, stained-glass windows, cement, and steel for the modern frame, ensuring durability and aesthetic grandeur.

• Construction Timeline: From October 7, 1877, to April 11, 1880, the basilica was built in three years, with Jules Bourard overseeing every phase.

• Key Features Added Later: In 1895, architect Gardes added spires to the 57m bell towers, enhancing the skyline. A 1-ton Swiss clock, installed in 1887, remains functional. In 1903, a bronze statue of Bishop Pigneau de Béhaine and Prince Canh was erected, removed in 1945. On February 16, 1959, Father Joseph Van Thien installed an Italian-marble Our Lady of Peace statue, blessed by Cardinal Agagianian on February 17, 1959, renaming the church Notre-Dame Basilica.

• Labor and Design: French engineers and local laborers collaborated, adapting the Romanesque-Gothic design to Saigon’s climate with ventilation and high ceilings.

The basilica, initially the State Church under French management, became a cultural icon, preserved through wars and time.

• 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 Sunday morning mass or special services).

• 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. Modest attire (covered shoulders, long pants) required.

• Guided Tours: Join our Saigon Cultural Tour ($50–$70) for expert-led historical insights, with eco-friendly transport via bicycles or Metro Line 1.

Tip: Visit early morning for serene exploration; check mass schedules to avoid closures.

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. 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 exploring the basilica’s history and Paris Commune Square. Tet (January–February) brings festive decorations but busier 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 ideal during showers. Morning visits (8:00 AM–10:00 AM) ensure quieter exploration, while Christmas season adds festive lights but more visitors. Avoid Sunday mornings due to potential mass closures.

Tip: Book tours 3–5 weeks ahead for Tet; visit mornings for serene historical immersion. 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, notebook for historical notes.

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, designed by Gustave Eiffel, features Gothic arches and a historic postal hall.

• 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 palace, marking 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, a hub for history and local cuisine like Bún Riêu Gánh.

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

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–7:00 PM.

• Tip: Sample crab soup; 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 details Vietnam’s war history with impactful 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 reflects Chinese heritage.

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

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–5:00 PM.

• Tip: See ceramic figurines; 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 square views.

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

• Photography: Use non-flash cameras; capture the Our Lady of Peace statue; 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 highlight Notre-Dame Basilica’s history 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’s history, from its 1877 groundbreaking to its 1959 renaming, weaves a rich tapestry of Saigon’s colonial and cultural legacy in Ho Chi Minh City. Legend Travel Group’s Ho Chi Minh City Tours guide you through this timeless landmark sustainably, ensuring a sustainable Ho Chi Minh City Travel experience alongside nearby cultural gems while supporting local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Saigon historical journey today!
Ready to uncover Notre-Dame Basilica’s storied past? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse in Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant heritage!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 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 – All rights reserved.