1. Things to know about Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon stands at No. 1, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. As one of Vietnam’s four basilicas, it holds a prestigious title granted by the Pope to churches of exceptional significance. In 2023, the South China Morning Post named it among Asia’s 10 most magnificent churches.
1.1. History
The history of Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon dates back to the 19th century during French colonial rule. The French initially built a small church on Ngo Thua Ke Street. As the congregation grew, they needed a larger space.
In 1863, a second wooden church was constructed along the Charner Canal and completed in 1865, named Saigon Church. When termites damaged this structure in 1876, a design competition was held for the construction of a new cathedral.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a masterpiece of French colonial architecture (Source: Collected)
The current building, designed by architect J. Bourad, was constructed from 1877 to 1880. Initially named the State Church, it became Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica in 1959 with the addition of the Our Lady of Peace statue.
In 2017, Belgium’s Monument Group began a major renovation project which will extend the cathedral’s life by at least 100 years. The project is set to complete in 2027.
1.2. Significance
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon transcends its architectural beauty to serve as a spiritual sanctuary. It remains an active religious center where Catholics gather for baptisms, weddings, communions, and funeral services. During Christmas and other major religious festivals, the cathedral comes alive with both local worshippers and international visitors.
Beyond its religious role, Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon has become one of the top places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City. It stands as a symbol of Vietnam’s cultural heritage and an ambassador of the country’s rich history to the world.
The cathedral serves as a major spiritual hub for the Catholic community in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)
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2. What to do at Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon?
2.1. Explore unique architecture
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon exemplifies a harmonious fusion of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, built entirely with materials imported from France. Its distinctive pink Marseille bricks remain unfaded through time, while 56 stained glass windows from Chartres adorn its walls. The foundation was designed to bear ten times the building’s weight, ensuring its longevity.
Key architectural features include:
- The hall features a main nave, a subsidiary nave, and twelve side chapels symbolizing the apostles. This spacious area spans 93 meters in length and reaches 21 meters high, capable of accommodating up to 21,000 people.
- The bell towers of 57 meters tall house six bells representing musical notes (do, re, mi, fa, sol, la). Between them sits a one-ton clock from 1887 that still shows perfect time.
- The altar was crafted from solid marble, featuring six carved deities and intricate biblical scenes. It is surrounded by ornate stained glass windows depicting religious narratives and decorated with rose patterns.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon reviews often highlight its architecture (Source: Collected)
2.2. Admire the statue of the Virgin Mary
The cathedral’s front square is a vibrant gathering spot where young people often take photos, enjoy coffee, and admire the scenery. At its center stands the statue of the Virgin Mary, sculpted by G. Ciocchetti in 1959. This striking 4.6-meter-tall statue was crafted from Italian white marble. It depicts the Virgin Mary standing upright, holding a globe with a cross in her left hand. Most captivating are her eyes, gazing contemplatively skyward in what appears to be a prayer for the nation.
2.3. Take photos and feed pigeons
The timeless beauty of Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon makes it a favorite photo spot among young people. Whether captured from afar, from its sides, or within its hall, every angle offers stunning photo opportunities. Visitors can also feed and play with the friendly pigeons that gather around the cathedral.
The statue of the Virgin Mary stands gracefully in front of the cathedral (Source: Collected)
2.4. Enjoy coffee and street food
For those fond of food in Ho Chi Minh City, the area around Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon offers a charming local experience. Here, you will see visitors gathering on cardboard mats placed on the grass and sipping fragrant coffee. Street vendors around the area serve delicious snacks throughout the day – from rice paper rolls to fresh fruits and sweet soups.
2.5. Drop by other attractions
After exploring Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, you can visit two nearby attractions – Saigon Central Post Office and Ho Chi Minh City Book Street. Saigon Central Post Office is an elegant French colonial building designed by Gustave Eiffel, still functioning as a post office while showcasing stunning architectural details. Just steps away, Ho Chi Minh City Book Street is a cultural oasis where book lovers can browse through various publications, enjoy a quiet read, or relax in charming coffee shops.
Saigon Central Post Office is another significant attraction in District 1 (Source: Collected)
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3. About Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon mass times
Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon maintains a regular mass schedule, although tourist visits are currently restricted during renovation work:
- Sunday masses: 5:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM (English Mass), 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM
- Weekday masses: 5:30 AM and 5:30 PM, Monday – Saturday
- During the Holy Year 2025, Eucharistic adoration takes place after the evening masses on Thursday and Friday and after the morning mass on Saturday.
If you are not attending religious services, feel free to visit and photograph the cathedral’s exterior at your convenience throughout the day.
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4. Information for tourists to the cathedral
4.1. When to visit?
For a perfect visit to Saigon Cathedral of Notre Dame, plan your trip during the dry season from May to November. The cathedral is most comfortable to explore during early morning or late afternoon, when the temperatures are mild and the lighting is ideal for photography. While the rainy season from December to April brings occasional rain, December is special as Christmas in Ho Chi Minh City transforms the cathedral with stunning decorations.
Thousands of people visit the cathedral on Christmas Eve to soak in the holiday spirit (Source: Collected)
4.2. How to get there?
Getting to Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon in Ho Chi Minh City is straightforward since it is located in the heart of District 1. If you are staying at a nearby hotel, walking is an excellent option that allows you to take in the city’s atmosphere along the way. For those coming from further locations, here are your transportation options:
- Taxi/ride-hailing services: Taxis are readily available in the city. Or, you can use ride-hailing services like Xanh SM for a reliable trip to the cathedral.
- Motorbike: For more independence, you can rent a motorbike for around 150,000 VND per day. This gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace.
- Bus: A budget-friendly choice for those with flexible schedules. Multiple bus routes pass by the cathedral, including routes 14, 18, 30, 36, 45, 93, and 152.
4.3. What to note?
Here are some essential tips to keep in mind when visiting Notre-Dame Cathedral of Saigon:
- The cathedral is being renovated until 2027. Some areas may be closed for renovation.
- Check the mass schedules for interior visits. Timing may vary during renovation work.
- Keep quiet and be respectful inside the cathedral.
- Dress modestly. No shorts above the knee or revealing tops.
- Watch your children closely. Keep them from running around.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon remains one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic landmarks. From its historic architecture to its spiritual significance, the cathedral continues to draw visitors year-round, serving as both a religious sanctuary and a must-see attraction in the heart of District 1.
While you are in Ho Chi Minh City, make sure to visit Grand Park, a modern entertainment complex in Thu Duc City. It offers something for everyone – from the refreshing Tropical Island water park to the magical Dream Garden amusement park. The Lake Beach adds a unique coastal charm to the landscape, while the Fantasy On Ice rink brings winter wonder to tropical Vietnam. Whether you are seeking thrilling activities or relaxing strolls, Grand Park combines nature and entertainment to create an unforgettable urban escape.
Grand Park promises endless fun for your Saigon adventure