Saigon Central Post Office: A great architectural work of Ho Chi Minh City

1. Where is Saigon Central Post Office? How to get there?

Saigon Central Post Office is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City (formerly known as Saigon), specifically at No 2, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The post office stands adjacent to another iconic landmark, the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, making it a central and convenient spot for visitors exploring the city.

• Address: No 2, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 
  • From Monday to Friday: 7 am – 5 pm
  • Saturday: 7 am – 6 pm
  • Sunday: 8 am – 6 pm
• Entrance fee: Free

To get to Saigon Central Post Office, you have several options:

• By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available throughout Ho Chi Minh City. Simply enter the address into the app or tell the driver “Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn” (Saigon Central Post Office) and they will know where to go.
• By Public Bus: There are several bus routes that pass close to the Saigon Central Post Office. Bus numbers 04, 18, 19, 36, and 52 all stop within walking distance. You can check the latest bus routes and schedules on local transportation websites or apps.
• On Foot or by Bicycle: If you are staying in District 1, you can easily walk or cycle to the post office. The streets are bustling but pedestrian-friendly, and many hotels and tourist spots are within a short distance.

2. The Long-Established Saigon Central Post Office History

The Saigon Central Post Office, built between 1886 and 1891, is a remnant of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. The construction of the building was supervised by the famous French architect Gustave Eiffel, known for designing the Eiffel Tower and the Statue of Liberty’s framework. This building has served as a vital communication hub for over a century and remains operational to this day.

During its construction, the post office was a symbol of modernity and progress. At the time, Vietnam was part of French Indochina, and the colonial government wanted to showcase its architectural and engineering prowess. The post office served not only as a place for postal services but also as a center for telegraph and telecommunications.

Throughout its history, the Saigon Central Post Office has witnessed significant events, from the French colonial period through the Vietnam War, and into the modern era. It stands as a testament to the city’s resilience and development, preserving its historical significance while continuing to serve the public.

3. Highlights of Saigon Central Post Office Architecture

The architecture of Saigon Central Post Office is a stunning blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial styles. Both its exterior and interior offer captivating sights that draw visitors from around the world.

3.1. Exterior

The exterior of the Saigon Central Post Office is characterized by its grand façade, which features ornate details and classical elements. Key highlights include:

• Symmetrical Design: The building’s design is perfectly symmetrical, with a central arch flanked by two wings. This symmetry is a hallmark of classical architecture and contributes to the building’s elegant appearance.
• Clock and Engravings: Above the main entrance is a large clock, a focal point of the building’s exterior. Surrounding the clock are intricate engravings and names of famous scientists and inventors, including Morse, the inventor of the telegraph, which signifies the building’s original purpose.
• Arched Windows and Columns: The windows are topped with arches, and the façade is adorned with columns and pilasters that add to its majestic look. The use of green wooden shutters is a typical feature of French colonial architecture, providing both functional and aesthetic value.

3.2. Interior

The interior of Saigon Central Post Office is equally impressive, combining historical charm with functional design. Highlights of the interior include:

• Spacious Hall: Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a vast hall with high ceilings, which creates a sense of openness and grandeur. The hall is supported by intricately designed iron pillars and arches, showcasing the engineering skills of the era.
• Map Murals: The walls are adorned with two large maps painted during the early 20th century. One map depicts the telegraph lines of Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, while the other shows a map of Saigon in 1892. These maps are historical artifacts that provide a glimpse into the past.
• Traditional Counters: The counters where postal services are provided have been preserved in their original style. They are made of wood and glass, maintaining the vintage ambiance of the building.
• Portrait of Ho Chi Minh: At the far end of the hall, there is a large portrait of Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader and former President of Vietnam. This portrait symbolizes the building’s continued importance in Vietnamese culture and history.

4. Top 5 Not-to-be-Missed Destinations Near Saigon Central Post Office

Ho Chi Minh City is full of historical and cultural attractions, many of which are conveniently located near the Saigon Central Post Office. Here are five must-visit destinations:

4.1. Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral

• Address: No. 1, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8 am – 11 am and 2 pm – 4 pm

Located just across the street from the post office, the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is another magnificent example of French colonial architecture. Built between 1863 and 1880, the cathedral features two towering bell towers and beautiful stained glass windows. It remains an active place of worship and a popular tourist spot.

4.2. Independence Palace

• Address: No. 135, Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8 am – 4.30 am

Also known as the Reunification Palace, this historic building was the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The palace is famous for its role in the fall of Saigon in 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates. Today, it serves as a museum, offering tours that highlight its historical significance.

4.3. Ben Thanh Market

• Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 6 am – 7 pm

One of the oldest and most iconic markets in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is a bustling hub of activity. Here, you can find a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce and street food to clothing and souvenirs. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and practice your bargaining skills.

4.4. Ho Chi Minh City Opera House

• Address: No. 7, Lam Son Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: 8 am – 10 pm

The Saigon Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre, is an elegant French colonial building completed in 1900. It hosts a variety of performances, including ballet, classical music concerts, and traditional Vietnamese plays. Even if you don’t attend a performance, the building itself is worth a visit for its architectural beauty.

4.5. Nguyen Hue Walking Street

• Address: Nguyen Hue Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: All day

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a wide pedestrian boulevard in the heart of District 1, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a lively place to stroll, especially in the evening when it becomes a hub of activity with street performers and locals enjoying the ambiance. The street also offers great views of modern skyscrapers and historical buildings.

5. Suggest Local Vietnam Discovery Tours to Plan Your Trip

Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam offers many attractive destinations such as Phu Quoc, Dalat, Nha Trang, and the Mekong Delta. For each destination you plan to visit in Vietnam, it is advisable to plan your itinerary in advance to ensure the best experience. Among the local travel companies, choose a reputable, quality, and reasonably priced company. Vietnam Discovery Travel is one of the leading travel companies that can quickly arrange your itinerary. With just a few emails and WhatsApp messages, they can help you plan everything in detail, from booking hotel rooms and flights to arranging tours and activities at your destination. Here are some suggested itineraries for popular destinations in Vietnam

Conclusion

The Saigon Central Post Office is not only a functioning postal facility but also a significant historical and architectural landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. Its rich history, stunning design, and central location make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city. Coupled with the nearby attractions and the variety of available tours, it offers visitors a comprehensive and memorable experience of Vietnam’s vibrant culture and heritage.