Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam: Travel Guide for 2025

Planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City? One landmark you simply can’t miss is the Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam. With its striking red bricks, French Gothic architecture, and iconic twin spires, it has long stood as a symbol of the city. But if you’re planning to visit in 2025, you might be wondering: is it open after years of renovation?

The good news: yes, you can still visit! While the Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh remains under partial restoration, the exterior and grounds are open to the public. This guide covers everything you need to know before your trip — from history and 2025 updates to visiting tips and nearby attractions.

History of Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam

Built between 1877 and 1880 by French colonists, the cathedral was designed by architect Jules Bourard as a central place of worship for the Catholic community in Saigon. What makes it unique is that every material was imported from France — from the distinct Marseille red bricks to stained-glass windows crafted in Chartres.

Originally known as the Church of Saigon, it grew in prominence over the decades. Its twin bell towers, standing 58 meters tall, were added in 1895, transforming the skyline. In 1959, the statue of the Virgin Mary was placed outside, and in 1960 Pope John XXIII elevated the cathedral to a basilica, renaming it the Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica.

Today, it remains both a place of faith and one of the most visited tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City.

Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh: Restoration Updates for 2025

In 2017, a large-scale restoration began to repair structural damage, replace bricks, and preserve the cathedral’s stained glass. The process has been long, slowed down by Vietnam’s humid climate and the global pandemic.

By 2025, major progress has been made:

1. The facade and bell towers have been beautifully restored.
2. The roof and outer walls are nearly complete, though some scaffolding may still be visible.
3. The interior remains closed for safety reasons while craftsmen finish delicate restoration work.

This means you can explore the grounds, admire the architecture, and take plenty of photos — but you cannot enter the nave or attend services inside.

Can You Visit Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam in 2025?

Yes, absolutely. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Exterior Access: Open — walk the grounds, see the Virgin Mary statue, and capture amazing photos.
2. Interior Access: Restricted — the main nave and stained-glass interiors remain closed to the public.
3. Religious Services: Mass continues, often in nearby temporary spaces. Visitors are welcome but must remain respectful.

So, while you won’t get the full interior experience just yet, the Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh (Saigon) is still a must-see in 2025.

Opening Hours & Entrance Fees of Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam

A visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam is completely free. There are no fees to enter the grounds, admire the architecture, or attend a religious service.

While the cathedral’s exterior and the surrounding square are accessible at all times, the interior remains closed to visitors due to ongoing restoration work. However, there are specific periods when the doors are open for worshippers, which visitors can respectfully attend.

Official Visiting Hours (for the interior)

1. Tuesday – Friday (excluding public holidays): 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM
2. Saturday: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Please note that these hours are for general visitation and are subject to change without notice due to the active restoration.

Mass Times (Open to the public)

Attending a service is a unique way to experience the cathedral’s spiritual heart. Visitors are welcome to attend Mass, but it’s essential to be respectful and dress modestly.

1. Weekdays: 5:30 AM and 5:30 PM
2. Saturdays: The Sunday liturgy is held at 5:30 PM
3. Sundays: 5:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 9:30 AM (English Mass), 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM

🎒 Tip: Arrive early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and the best light for photos, or contact us via WhatsApp for more details about Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon (HCMC), Vietnam.

What to Expect in Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam 2025

Your visit to the Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh is about more than just seeing a building; it’s about soaking in the atmosphere and appreciating a piece of living history.

1. A Masterpiece of Architecture
   Even with partial scaffolding, the cathedral is breathtaking. Its red-brick facade, Gothic arches, and twin towers dominate the skyline.
2. A Social Hub
   The square around the cathedral is a lively gathering place. Locals relax on benches, young people snap selfies, and tourists admire the view.
3. Photography Heaven
   • The Main Square: Stand in the center of the square to capture the entire cathedral and its twin towers.
   • From the Central Post Office: The steps of the neighboring Central Post Office offer an elevated view and a unique perspective.
   • Late Afternoon Golden Hour: The soft, golden light of the late afternoon beautifully illuminates the red bricks, making for stunning photographs.

Nearby Attractions to Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam

The beauty of visiting Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh is its central location, making it the perfect starting point for a full-day walking tour of District 1. You can easily spend hours exploring the area’s incredible blend of French colonial architecture and modern Vietnamese culture.

Ho Chi Minh City Central Post Office

Located right next to the cathedral, this stunning colonial building is a masterpiece designed by Gustave Eiffel, the same architect behind the Eiffel Tower. Step inside to admire the vaulted ceilings, the beautifully painted maps, and the ornate telephone booths. It’s a fully functional post office where you can send a postcard home or simply enjoy the historical grandeur.

Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh Street)

Tucked between the cathedral and the Central Post Office, this charming pedestrian street is lined with dozens of bookstores and cozy cafes. Book Street (Nguyen Van Binh Street) is a peaceful escape from the city’s traffic, where you can browse local literature, enjoy a traditional Vietnamese iced coffee (cà phê sữa đá), and soak in the intellectual atmosphere.

The Independence Palace

Just a 10-minute walk from the cathedral, the Independence Palace is a crucial part of Vietnam’s modern history. Formerly the home and workplace of the President of South Vietnam, it is a preserved museum that offers a fascinating look at the final moments of the Vietnam War.

Ben Thanh Market

A 15-minute walk or a short Grab ride away, Ben Thanh is one of the city’s most famous HCMC markets. It’s a bustling hub where you can find everything from traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and souvenirs to a wide variety of local street food. It’s a must-visit for a true taste of local life.

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

A short stroll from the cathedral, this wide, pedestrian-only street is the city’s main public square. Lined with modern cafes, shops, and restaurants, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists to hang out, especially in the evening.

Essential Tips for Visitors in 2025

To ensure a respectful and enjoyable trip to the Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam, keep these practical tips in mind:

1. Dress Modestly: Even though you can’t enter the church, remember that it is still a sacred place. Dress respectfully by covering your shoulders and knees.
2. Be Mindful of Your Belongings: Like any busy tourist area, be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure. For more on this, check out our Vietnam travel safety guide.
3. Respect the Faith: If you visit during a religious service or holiday, you may see worshippers gathering. Be respectful of their faith and personal space.
4. Best Time to Visit: To avoid the worst of the heat and the largest crowds, visit in the early morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM) or in the late afternoon (4:00 PM – 6:00 PM) for the best photos.
5. How to Get There: The central location of the Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh makes it easy to reach. A Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber/Lyft) or a traditional taxi is a convenient and affordable option. You can also easily walk to it if you’re staying in District 1.

How to Get Notre Dame Cathedral in Saigon

1. Walking: Easy if you’re staying in District 1.
2. Taxi: Fast and affordable from anywhere in the city.
3. Bus: Routes 04, 18, and 19 stop nearby.

If you’re planning a full-day tour, consider booking with a trusted travel service like Sun Getaways Travel. They provide 24/7 free consultation and personalized itineraries, making it easy to explore Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam and other top attractions stress-free.

Why Visit with Sun Getaways Travel?

Traveling in Ho Chi Minh City can feel overwhelming with so much to see. That’s where Sun Getaways Travel (hot deal) comes in. With their free 24/7 support and customized tours, you’ll enjoy a seamless experience — whether you want a private guide at Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh or a curated walking tour through District 1. Their local expertise ensures you don’t miss hidden gems while saving time and energy.

FAQs About Visiting Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam in 2025

1. Is Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam fully open in 2025?
No, the interior is still under restoration. Only the exterior grounds are open.

2. Do you need tickets to enter Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh?
No, visiting is free.

3. What’s the best time for photos?
Early morning and late afternoon for softer light and fewer people.

4. Can tourists attend Mass?
Yes, but services are held in temporary spaces during renovations. Visitors must be respectful.

5. How long should you spend there?
About 30–45 minutes for the cathedral itself, or a few hours if exploring nearby attractions.

Conclusion

So, can you visit Notre Dame Cathedral Vietnam in 2025? Yes — while the interior remains closed, the exterior has been beautifully restored and the surrounding square is open to the public. From its rich history to its stunning architecture, the cathedral is still one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most important landmarks.

Pair your visit with nearby attractions like the Central Post Office and Book Street for a full cultural experience. And if you want expert guidance, remember that Sun Get offers free 24/7 consultation and curated tours to make your Ho Chi Minh City journey effortless and unforgettable.

Don’t let the scaffolding fool you — Notre Dame Cathedral Ho Chi Minh is still a must-visit gem in Vietnam.