Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon?
What makes it 90% Couple-Friendly: Couples enjoy romantic photos before the twin spires, light a shared candle inside, and stroll to cafés within 2 minutes; limited visit time leaves room for a wider date itinerary downtown.
Positives:
- Free entry: No ticket required to enter cathedral or square.
- Iconic photo backdrop: The red-brick façade and twin spires frame romantic shots.
- Central location: Steps from cafes, the Post Office, and Nguyễn Huệ Walking Street.
Challenges:
- Limited seating: Few benches inside; stand during services or candle lighting.
- No on-site restrooms: Use nearby Diamond Plaza mall toilets, 3 minutes’ walk east.
- Midday crowds: Local tours and lunchtime visitors peak around 11 AM–1 PM.
What is Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon?
- A Catholic cathedral built in the 1880s from red bricks imported from France, exemplifying Romanesque Revival architecture
- Twin bell towers soaring to 58 meters, topped by iron spires and housing large bronze bells
- A preserved French colonial landmark in District 1, featuring a cruciform plan, vaulted nave, and stained-glass windows
What is so special about Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon for couple trip?
- Explore 19th-century French-brick architecture up close
- Light a shared votive candle for a memorable moment
- Capture romantic photos in Paris Commune Square
- Enjoy a nearby coffee date on Book Street
- Join an optional guided tour of colonial landmarks
Recommended visit duration: 0.5-1 hour
Why 0.5-1 hour visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Couples can tour the cathedral interior, light candles, take photos, and enjoy the square in under an hour.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Photo session at Paris Commune Square:
Pose beneath the cathedral’s twin red-brick towers.
Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and capture soft morning light.
Light a votive candle:
Offer a candle inside the main hall.
Tip: Bring 12,500–50,000 VND for a donation and choose a tucked‐away spot.
Attend a Mass service:
Experience local worship on the main floor.
Tip: Check service times posted at the entrance; no reservation needed.
Coffee date on Book Street:
Walk 2 minutes to Nguyễn Văn Bình Street for a café.
Tip: Try a ghiền coffee with condensed milk; budget about 50,000 VND per drink.
Private architecture tour:
Join a French-colonial walking tour including Notre-Dame and the Post Office.
Tip: Book ahead; expect about €25–40 per person.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
- Early arrival: Get there at opening to avoid the heat and crowds.
- Pair with Book Street: Combine your visit with a coffee or book browsing 2 minutes away.
- Check Mass times: Plan around service hours for a quieter interior.
Reviews of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
nn nhna
Notre Dame Cathedral, Ho Chi Minh – Currently Underwhelming Visited the Notre Dame Cathedral during my trip — unfortunately, it’s under renovation, so much of its charm is hidden behind scaffolding. In photos, it doesn’t quite capture the grandeur you’d expect. Right now, it feels like just another cathedral to tick off the list rather than a highlight. Still worth a quick stop if you're nearby,...
David Lowman
At this point, there’s no reason to go and try to see the cathedral at all. It’s completely covered with scaffolding to where you can’t even see the towers at all let alone get in.
Liam
The church is currently being renovated, so don’t your expectations up. From the side you should be able to see a bit of the style, but it’ll take some time before you can witness the impressive front side.
Richard A Francisco
My timing was a bit off when I visited Notre Dame in Ho Chi Minh. The famous basilica was undergoing a massive renovation and it was closed to the public. I just walked around it and took a pic of the lovely statue in front.
MTC
It’s a pity that it is currently under renovation. I hope that after completion it will continue to show its beautiful architectural appearance and continue to be one of the cultural landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City.
When is the best time to visit Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)?
Visit between December and February for cooler, drier weather and clearer skies. Carry an umbrella from May to October for sudden showers.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Votive candle donation | VND 50,000 |
| Coffee for two on Book Street | VND 100,000 |
| Postcard and stamp | VND 50,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 200,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Address: 01 Công trường Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
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