Step into the rich history of Vietnam at the Museum of Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Gia Long Palace. Located on a 2-hectare block near the Independence Palace at the corner of Lý Tự Trọng and Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa streets, this stunning two-story landmark offers you a deep dive into the region's complex past. Designed by French architect Alfred Foulhoux and completed in 1890, the building originally housed the Museum of Commercial Trade before serving as a high-profile political residence and headquarters for French governors, Japanese forces, British missions, and Vietnamese leadership.
As you explore, you will marvel at the 1,700-square-meter architectural marvel featuring a unique blend of classical European Baroque and Oriental styles. Look closely at the exterior to spot European-styled staircases, an Oriental-inspired roof, grotesque decorations, and embossed motifs of Greek mythological symbols, tropical lizards, and birds. You will also learn about the site's pivotal role during the 1963 coup d'état involving President Ngô Đình Diệm.
Do not miss learning about the massive, reinforced concrete escape tunnels Diệm commissioned beneath the palace, complete with iron vault doors, underground offices, and exit routes leading toward Le Thanh Ton Street.
What to see at Museum of Ho Chi Minh City
- Traverse a historic 1890 palace designed by French architect Alfred Foulhoux
- Admire Baroque architecture featuring a fusion of European and Oriental roof designs
- Examine intricate roof decorations displaying grotesques, Greek symbols, and tropical animals
- Stroll through the trapezoid-shaped flower garden surrounding the 2-hectare property
- Discover the deep underground escape tunnels built with reinforced concrete and iron vault doors
Visiting tips
Look closely at the roof facade to spot daytime chicken and nighttime owl symbols alongside detailed animal carvings.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Museum of Ho Chi Minh City is easy to reach on Ho Chi Minh City’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and Saigon Opera House. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Ho Chi Minh City travel guide.
See the full Ho Chi Minh City travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.