Saigon Central Post Office,Vietnam
Saigon Central Post Office (Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn) is a landmark of Ho Chi Minh City and an outstanding example of late 19th-century French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Built between 1886–1891 during French rule, the building has been a functioning post office and a visual symbol of Saigon’s colonial-era urban core, located beside Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. It represents the city’s historical role as a regional administrative and communications hub and remains popular with both locals and visitors.
Places to visit
- Ornate façade and arched windows facing the cathedral square
- Grand interior hall with vaulted ironwork roof and decorative columns
- Historic painted map of Saigon and the Mekong region on the interior wall
- Antique telephone booths and telegraph equipment on display
- Portrait of Ho Chi Minh and period signage
- Proximity to Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Cathedral Square (great photo spot)
Unique Aspects
- Distinctive French colonial architecture and decorative ironwork
- Vaulted, airy interior with symmetrical design and tiled floors
- Large painted map mural showing old Saigon and surrounding regions
- Working post office services where visitors can send postcards and buy stamps
- Photogenic exterior and interior suited for architecture and street photography
Things to do
- Admire and photograph the façade, interior hall and historic map
- Buy postcards and Vietnamese stamps and send mail from the historic post office
- Explore antique telephones and postal paraphernalia on display
- Combine a visit with the nearby Notre-Dame Cathedral, street cafés and markets
- Short guided or self-guided walks around District 1’s colonial architecture
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (November–April) for cooler, less rainy conditions; early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest part of the day and large crowds.
Weather Conditions
Tropical climate — hot and humid year-round, with a rainy season (May–October) and a drier, milder season (November–April). Expect high humidity and sudden showers during the wet months.
Entry Fees & Permits
Entry to view the building is free. The post office typically operates daily for postal services; common visiting hours are approximately 07:00–19:00 but service hours or access can vary—check locally on the day of your visit.
Accessibility
Located in District 1, next to Notre-Dame Cathedral and easily reached on foot from many central hotels. Nearest major transport: Tan Son Nhat International Airport (~7 km by car). Accessible by taxi, rideshare, local buses, or walking from Ben Thanh Market (~15–20 minutes). The main hall is on ground level, but some areas may have narrow doorways or steps—wheelchair users may encounter limited accessibility in certain parts.
Recommended Duration
30–60 minutes (longer if sending mail, browsing nearby shops, or combining with adjacent attractions).
Clothing & Gear Tips
Light, breathable clothing for tropical heat; comfortable walking shoes. Bring a hat, sunscreen and a light rain jacket or umbrella in the wet season. Modest attire if also visiting the nearby cathedral.
Local Food & Souvenirs
Buy postcards and unique Vietnamese stamps at the post office as souvenirs. Nearby District 1 offers street food such as phở, bánh mì, and cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee). Souvenir options in the area include lacquerware, silk items, coffee beans, and handcrafted postcards.