In the center of Ho Chi Minh City lies the stunning Saigon Central Post Office, which is so much more than a picturesque backdrop to your vacation pictures; it’s a working post office, a work of colonial architecture, and a dynamic symbol of the city’s past. Constructed from 1886 to 1891, the Post Office in Saigon combines French grandeur with Vietnamese tradition, providing travelers with a unique opportunity to experience a 19th-century monument that continues to serve the public today. As you discover the best of southern Vietnam, the Saigon Central Post Office is a Ho Chi Minh City must-see!
Saigon Central Post Office can be found in central Ho Chi Minh City, at 2 Cong Xa Paris, District 1, next door to the Notre Dame Cathedral and just a short walk from the Opera House and Ben Thanh Market. Its central location makes it one of the most popular Ho Chi Minh City must-see attractions.
How to Get to the Saigon Central Post Office
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing App (Grab, Gojek, Be): This is the most comfortable and direct way to reach the Saigon Central Post Office, especially if you’re new to the city or carrying luggage.
By Motorbike or Scooter Rental: For those who prefer to feel the city independently and take in the excitement of navigating through the fast-paced roads of Saigon, renting a motorbike is a top option.
By Walking
If you are already in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Central Post is within walking distance of several nearby sites. The most scenic and leisurely choice!
Along the way, you will pass by stunning colonial architecture, souvenir stores, tree-shaded boulevards, and vibrant cafés, a lovely way to savor the beauty of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
By Public Bus
Thrifty and eager to explore? Buses in HCMC are better arranged than you’d imagine, and yes, they stop directly at the Post Office in Saigon.
Saigon Central Post Office by Walking (Sours: visithcmc)
Saigon Central Post Office, situated in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, is a resplendent symbol of Vietnam’s past under colonization and contemporary resilience. Constructed from 1886 to 1891 by architects from the firm of Eiffel, the building, with its rich history, drew inspiration from the grand train stations of Europe and was constructed to meet the increased demand for modern postal services under the rule of the French. Indeed, the country’s first postage stamps, popularly referred to as “con co," were issued at the post office in 1864, a turning point in the communication history of the country.
Across the ages of French Indochina, the Vietnam War, and reunification, the Post Office in Saigon has been a central hub. Following a grand restoration in 2014, its iconic yellow exterior, tall ceilings, and retro charm were brought back to life for generations to come. Whether you’re glancing over the giant image of Ho Chi Minh City, shopping in souvenir stores, or simply basking in the atmosphere, the Saigon Central Post Office is a Ho Chi Minh City must-see, tying past and present together in one unforgettable visit.
Saigon Central Post Office, situated in the city center of Ho Chi Minh City, is a quintessential example of Neo-Renaissance colonial buildings. As you walk, the arched entrance greets you with vintage European elegance, and the central clock tower above the entrance showcases the years when the post office was constructed from 1886 to 1891.
Its symbolic yellow exterior, edged by sophisticated green shutters on the windows, makes a visually appealing counterpoint that is stunning in the early morning light. Backed by the neighboring Notre Dame Cathedral and Opera House, the structure is a standout among the most photogenic and history-laden locations in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The Saigon Central Post is unequivocally a Ho Chi Minh City must-see.
Upon entering the Ho Chi Minh City post office, you are immediately welcomed by the soaring vaulted barrel ceiling, stretching above you with iron beams reminiscent of grand 19th-century train stations. The atmosphere is filled with nostalgia as you walk on the old wooden floor tiles, each of which contains memories of the past.
Look left and right, you’ll spot two historical treasures on the walls:
These items narrate the history of postal services that once connected Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, to the rest of Asia.
Do not miss the line of antique wooden telephone booths. While no longer operative, a few of them have been converted into quaint mailboxes. The booths are a photographer’s and history buff’s delight, silent alcoves where the past remains.
At the center of the Post Office in Saigon, suspended far above the principal service counter, there’s a solemn and symbolic image, a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh City. It’s not symbolic, but a potent symbol of Vietnam’s strength, identity, and resilience of past ages.
The presence of the portrait makes a dramatic counterpoint to the French colonial style of the building, where cultural pride complements historical architecture. Below the soaring ceiling, amidst the symmetry and gentle light, the portrait stands out as a central focus that attracts the eye and the soul.
It’s a favorite photo stop and a moment that resonates powerfully with travelers. If you’re touring the center of Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Central Post, then this dramatic picture represents the definitive fusion of past and present in Vietnam, a must-see moment.
Inside the Saigon Central Post Office (Sours: bocapvang)
It’s an actual Post Office in Saigon and is still in full operation! There are a few things that one enjoys doing at the Ho Chi Minh City post office as much as purchasing a postcard and mailing it, just like travelers of over a hundred years ago. With lovely stamp motifs and numerous cards of vintage style to choose from, the small action makes for a special memento. Let’s be honest, how often do you have the chance to employ the services of a traditional post within a piece of colonial architecture?
One of the most poignant moments within the Saigon Central Post Office is learning the history of Mr. Duong Van Ngo, famously referred to as Vietnam’s last public letter-writer. Decades ago, Mr. Ngo sat at a wooden counter at the front of the post office, composing and translating letters in French, English, and Vietnamese for whoever needed them. Though retired today, his life remains a part of the emotional history of this tourist landmark. His presence made the Ho Chi Minh City post office a place that transcended a building; it was a gateway bridging hearts across generations and oceans.
Along the interior corridors are quaint souvenir stalls offering everything from painted postcards to vintage stamps, lacquerware, and other handmade gifts. It’s the ideal place to find meaningful souvenirs that also capture the artistic value and the history of a city like Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. Unlike standard market stalls, these carefully selected stalls are representative of the soul of the Saigon Central Post Office, and they’re ideal for those who want to take a piece of local history home.
Photography enthusiasts, rejoice! The architecture of the central post office, the tall ceilings, iron pillars, and retro booths, yields the most iconic images in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Central Post. Take your moment in the retro wooden telephone booths, under the soaring arches, or against the backdrop of the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh City. Any angle is a story, and even more so in the gentle light of early mornings that seeps through the arched windows.
Send a Postcard (Sours: plo)
Your private car and guide will collect you from your accommodation. On the drive through the vibrant city roads of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you’ll catch a glimpse of the city’s colonial-style buildings, from Gia Dinh Citadel to the contemporary landmarks.
Visit the famous Saigon Central Post Office, one of Ho Chi Minh City’s must-see sights. Constructed between 1886 and 1891, the stunning piece of history was built by architects of Eiffel’s firm and remains in operation today.
Activities:
Directly across from the Post Office in Saigon lies the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, constructed of Marseille bricks and capped by twin towers. The Romanesque-Gothic building is still a source of pride for District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, the Saigon Central Post district.
Activities:
Continue your journey through history with a stop at the Independence Palace, once a presidential home and command center. The mid-century beauty plays against the 19th-century styles of the post office.
Activities:
Drive or walk to Dong Khoi Street, where the ornate Saigon Opera House, a favorite among locals and travelers alike, resides.
Activities:
End your tour with a brief stop at the Ben Thanh Market, which is one of the oldest and busiest marketplaces in Saigon.
Activities:
Following a memorable morning of culture, your driver will escort you back to your hotel or deliver you to your next stop in central Saigon.
Notre Dame Cathedral (Sours: bvhttdl)
Whether you envision standing amidst the grandeur of the towering ceiling in the Saigon Central Post Office, walking through the spaces of Notre Dame Cathedral, or finding out the mysteries of Ben Thanh Market, Impress Travel will help make it unforgettable.
With passionate travel experts, intimate local knowledge, and customized itineraries throughout Southeast Asia and Vietnam, we don’t just take you somewhere share the journey with you. From half-day cultural tours in Ho Chi Minh City to multi-day journeys to Vietnam’s most sought-after places, we make each experience seamless, memorable, and uniquely your own.
Contact our team today to customize your perfect Saigon itinerary!
To achieve a peaceful and intimate atmosphere, go there between the early mornings (7:00 – 8:30 AM) or late afternoons after 4:00 PM. These periods allow you to escape from tourist crowds and large groups of travelers, keeping you comfortable amidst cooler temperatures and stunning light.
Morning sunlight softly strikes the yellow exterior of the Saigon Central Post Office, bathing it in warm light against the blue horizon. It’s also the ideal time to capture big-angle photos free of distractions, ideal for travelers ready to uncover each aspect of the Ho Chi Minh City must-see.
Best Time to Visit (Sours: congly)
Saigon Central Post Office is not just a building, it’s a vibrant symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. With its mix of Franco-colonial architecture, compelling history, and infectious energy, it is a legitimate Ho Chi Minh City must-see. Whether you’re sending a postcard home, appreciating the soaring ceilings, or simply basking in the charm, the Post Office in Saigon beckons each visitor to pause and connect with the city’s enduring soul.
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
This is a short-traveled package to explore Vietnam’s largest city (Ho Chi Minh city or Saigon) and the most prominent beauty-spots, culture, history & people in South Vietnam.
Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) consistently accommodates the good deal of interesting things to explore the beauty-spots, gain an understanding of people, culture & history.
Southern Vietnam is a land favored by nature, where there is a special, beautiful and rich ecosystem all year round, associated with the simple culture of the people.
Pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes, fresh seafood are what make Vung Tau attractive to foreign voyagers. So comming to Ho Chi Minh City, come to Vung Tau coastal city...
