History and Architecture of Nha Rong Wharf 

Nha Rong means Dragon House which is initially a busy commercial harbor of Ho Chi Minh city. This harbor was built by the French with an aim to exchange goods, weapons, and materials during the French occupation of Vietnam. Nha Rong remains the French-inspired architecture affected by both Vietnamese and French construction. It is not difficult to see that has there are Vietnamese-dragon-shaped statues on its rooftop, and the dragon is a cultural symbol of Vietnam appearing in numerous building designs like pagodas, temples, even residential houses. It is said that the name of this wharf comes from the above detail.
This tourist attraction is internationally famous for a historic event related to Vietnam’s independence. In 1911, Ho Chi Minh left Vietnam to find a path to liberty for fatherland while Vietnam was under the French’s domination. This strenuous process will be illustrated proudly by exhibits and on-site tour guide. Thanks to Ho Chi Minh and his set-off, Vietnam gained independence after that, so Vietnam citizens are grateful to the leader, they love and protect any keepsakes related to Ho Chi Minh.
Ticket price: 2.000VND/pax
Opening times: Nha Rong wharf is open 7.30 am- 17h pm from Tuesday to Sunday (lunch breaks from 11h30 am -13h30 pm).

Tourist Attractions near Nha Rong Wharf

The following are some iconic destinations in Ho Chi Minh city which are relatively close to Nha Rong Wharf. It is very convenient that visitors can experience all of these sites within a day during Ho Chi Minh City Tour Packages.

Independence Palace

The first suggestion is Independence Palace that is about three kilometers far from Nha Rong Wharf. Independence Palace used to be the Palace of Indochina Governor-General. It is the headquarters of the city’s military administration committee after Vietnam’s liberation then. This place is actually notable to anyone coming to the biggest city of Vietnam.

Notre Dame Cathedral

One more French construction near Nha Rong Wharf is Notre Dame Cathedral (Duc Ba church). Most of the building materials were from France and the cathedral initially was to fulfill the religious wish of the French. For unique and eye-catching features, Notre Dame Cathedral is always a prior choice for every tourist. Especially, the church is just three kilometers far from Nha Rong Wharf.

Saigon central post office

Being the neighbor of Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon central post office is one of the oldest buildings and a typical colonial French construction located in Ho Chi Minh city. The office not only maintains the illustration of ancient postal services but also keeps the oldest eyewitness who will tell you many noteworthy stories. Don’t skip this site with thousands of visitors every day.

Ben Thanh Market

This is the most popular symbol of Ho Chi Minh city. It is not hard to find a stamp of Saigon printed a picture of Ben Thanh market. You can buy anything, from food and drinks to souvenirs in the daytime and enjoy the dynamic atmosphere by the recreational center nearby. A hustling and bustling stop awaits you, and it is 3 kilometers far from Nha Rong Wharf only.

Join Rooftop Bars and Clubs in Sai Gon

Unlike Hanoi, Saigon’s nightlife goes late and nightclubs and bars are ideal places for a joyful experience. There is nothing quite like indulging in live music performances, enjoying fresh beers and cocktails while laying your eyes on the panoramic view of the whole city. Those top 10 bars and clubs in Ho Chi Minh City should be your choice.

Reward Yourself with a Water Puppet Show in Ho Chi Minh 

Head to the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theater to enjoy such an amazing water puppet performance. With traditional stories and scenes, your heart and mind would be definitely captivated.
Address: 55, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Tel: (08) 3930 2196.

Get Lost in Saigon’s Night Market

Superb night markets in Ho Chi Minh are ideal places for an evening out. To gain a truly authentic night market experience, Ben Thanh night market is a must-go. Head to the market and get an insight into a huge collection of up to 20 sidewalk eateries to enjoy real Vietnamese street food.

Explore Ho Chi Minh’s coffee-drinking Culture at Night

For those haven’t heard night coffee drinking culture, Ho Chi Minh is amongst the best places for taking time and sipping a cup of Vietnamese coffee. It is now a popular activity for local people who prefer to a night out drinking coffee and chatting with their friends or families. There are a number of great coffee shops in Pham Ngoc Thach, Dien Bien Phu and Cach Mang Thang Tam Street. Come here and enjoy a perfect like with good coffee, great dancing and singing at night and amazing busy atmosphere.

Located at Number 1 Cong Truong Cong Xa Paris Street, right opposite the Saigon Central Post Office- the middle of chaotic Saigon in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral is very easy to reach.

Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral’s history

Representing splendid, majestic, gorgeous and magnificent beauty with a long history, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral deserves to be a priceless masterpiece of Saigon architecture.
During the 19th century, Catholicism – a new type of religion was introduced into Vietnam by the French colonial. As soon as the French troops occupied Gia Dinh, Saigon, Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral was constructed by French authorities with a view to organizing Catholic ceremonies.

Experience three reconstruction, the classic French architecture was totally completed in 1877 and today becomes one of the best French architectural constructions.

Outstanding features

Saigon Notre-dame Cathedral has experienced 130 years more or less of political and historic upheavals, the cathedral still keeps it strong survival without being affected. Today, it preserves its original colors of an elegant structure and become the highlight spot of the modern Saigon.
Located in the middle square facing Dong Khoi Street, the church stands out the crowd for its gorgeous appearance with fresh red brick walls, no fences and adjacent premises. Moreover, the external splendor is highlighted with sparkling non-roof bell towers as well as six large bells brought in from France.

When first stepping to the church, you can catch a glimpse of the status of the Peace Virgin Mary which was situated at the garden center. The status was meticulously built with precious marble designed and constructed by the talented sculptor G. Cicchetti in 1959. The hands of the Virgin Mary keep the Globe with the Cross while her eyes look up to the sky. This image has become the symbol of wishing for peace.
The most worth mentioning attractive feature is its splendid decoration. It is a perfect combination of 56 glass windows that portray the Bible characters, coupled with beautiful images of oriental graphics and patterns. Stepping inside the cathedral, you will be definitely amazed at gorgeously unique architecture carefully arranged with subtle lights in the interior, providing the sense of holy and solemn as well as demonstrating the exquisite splendor beauty. Moreover, you will also be overwhelmed by a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, which is totally different from the hustling and bustling streets out there.

Things to do in Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral

Visit Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral will give you an insight into one of the most marvelous French architectural styles in Vietnam. By attending serving rituals and church ceremonies, you can have a chance to experience the best things of a famous cathedral. In addition to that, it is also an ideal place for taking photos to create a memorable experience. Correspondingly, there are a lot of coffee shops and shopping centers around the cathedral namely Diamond Plaza, Coffee Bean, and Vincom Plaza.

Further information

You can get into the Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral between 8 am and 11 am in the morning, 3 pm and 4 pm in the afternoon during the weekdays. English-speaking staff is always willing to answer and provide useful knowledge involving the place. Especially, you will not be charged anything because it is free for everyone.
If you have an opportunity to visit Vietnam, come here and admire a splendid Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral.

In summary, visiting Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral through Vietnam tours offers a captivating glimpse into the cultural and historical tapestry of Ho Chi Minh City. This iconic landmark, with its grand architecture and rich heritage, stands as a testament to Vietnam’s enduring history and religious significance.