Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum
A stunning colonial gem housing diverse Vietnamese art, offering a peaceful cultural escape in the heart of Saigon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning colonial gem housing diverse Vietnamese art, offering a peaceful cultural escape in the heart of Saigon.
"The architecture is stunning, with a blend of French and Chinese influences."
Affordable Entry Fee
Tickets are very reasonably priced, around $2 USD, making it accessible for everyone.
Photo-Friendly Building
The beautiful colonial building itself is a major draw for photos, not just the art.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Colonial Architecture
Throughout the museum
Explore stunning French colonial buildings, a beautiful backdrop for art and photos.
Vietnamese Art Collection
Various galleries
Discover diverse art, from ancient Champa sculptures to modern lacquer paintings.
Contemporary Exhibitions
Second and first buildings
See rotating special exhibitions and contemporary Vietnamese art.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Photography & Exhibits
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Affordable Entry Fee
Tickets are very reasonably priced, around $2 USD, making it accessible for everyone.
Photo-Friendly Building
The beautiful colonial building itself is a major draw for photos, not just the art.
Explore All Buildings
Don't miss the multiple colonial-era buildings housing diverse collections.
Hydration Station
Bring water or use vending machines as some areas lack AC and can get warm.
Art work/paintings HCMC location?
Tips
from all over the internet
Affordable Entry Fee
Tickets are very reasonably priced, around $2 USD, making it accessible for everyone.
Photo-Friendly Building
The beautiful colonial building itself is a major draw for photos, not just the art.
Explore All Buildings
Don't miss the multiple colonial-era buildings housing diverse collections.
Hydration Station
Bring water or use vending machines as some areas lack AC and can get warm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum for its stunning colonial architecture and diverse collection of Vietnamese art, offering a peaceful escape. However, some note the lack of air conditioning in certain areas and the occasional absence of English descriptions for exhibits.
"Pretty big and beautiful museum in the centre of HCM.
Most of the visitors seems to be young woman extremely busy with their own selfies and TikTok dances instead of playing attention to the interesting artworks.
Seems very shallow, but maybe it’s a generational thing.
Anyhow, the museum is great for pictures, not only because of the paintings but because of the wonderful building itself. It’s really big and I loved exploring all the halls and corridors.
On the 3th floor of the first building are expositions of important art woman of Vietnam.
On the 2nd is modern and contemporary art highlighted.
On the 1st are contemporary, special exhibitions and artshop.
And there are more buildings on the site, so plenty to see!"
Lilly
"The Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts is a hidden gem in the heart of Saigon. Housed in a beautiful French colonial building, the museum offers a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. 
Pros:
• The architecture is stunning, with a blend of French and Chinese influences.
• The museum houses a diverse collection of over 20,000 artworks, including ancient Champa sculptures, lacquer paintings, and contemporary pieces.
• The layout is spacious, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the exhibits.
• The entrance fee is very affordable, making it accessible to all.
Cons:
• Some areas of the museum lack air conditioning, which can make the visit uncomfortable during hot days.
• Not all exhibits have English descriptions, which might be challenging for non-Vietnamese speakers. 
Overall, it’s a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those interested in Vietnamese culture. The museum provides a unique insight into the country’s artistic heritage and is a great place to spend a few hours."
JOKER'S
"A good way to see the history of the city through art.
First building contained artworks from various artists depicting various aspects of the history and the culture of the country.
Second building showcases special exhibition. At the time it was about the upcoming 80th anniversary so it was a show about paintings of the president HCM.
Third building contained a collection of furniture, ceramic work, and wood work. Another visitor told us someone had died in that building.
Other notes: you can take photos with phone but not with a camera.
Tickets : 30k per person"
vivek
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is centrally located in District 1, making it easily accessible by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or even a pleasant walk from many popular tourist spots.
Parking can be challenging in District 1. It's often easier to use ride-sharing services or public transport. If driving, look for designated parking areas nearby, but be prepared for potential fees.
Yes, if you're staying in or visiting nearby attractions like Ben Thanh Market or the Cafe Apartment, walking is a great option to experience the city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is very affordable, typically around 30,000 VND (approximately $1.20 USD), making it a budget-friendly cultural experience.
The museum is generally open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM. It's always a good idea to check their official website or social media for any last-minute changes.
Advance booking is usually not required due to the low crowds and affordable entry fee. You can purchase tickets directly at the museum.
While specific discounts aren't always advertised, the general admission is so low that it's already very accessible. It's worth inquiring at the ticket counter if you have a student ID.
🎫 🖼️ Onsite Experience
Yes, phone photography is generally permitted to capture the art and the beautiful architecture. However, professional cameras might be restricted.
Not all exhibits have English descriptions, which might be a challenge for non-Vietnamese speakers. Focus on the visual impact or use a translation app.
Some areas have air conditioning, but not all. It can get warm, especially during hot days, so visiting in cooler parts of the day is recommended.
You can easily spend 2-3 hours exploring the various buildings and collections, or longer if you're a dedicated art enthusiast.
Official guided tours are not widely advertised. However, the layout is intuitive, and you can explore at your own pace.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The museum has a vending machine for drinks, but no full-service restaurant or cafe. You'll find plenty of dining options in the surrounding District 1 area.
District 1 is a culinary hub! You can find everything from street food stalls to upscale restaurants offering Vietnamese and international cuisine.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand staircases, ornate balconies, and the colonial facade are excellent for photos. The art itself also provides unique photographic opportunities.
Selfies are common, but be mindful of other visitors and the art. Some TikTok dances have been filmed here, but ensure you're not disrupting the experience for others.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for the heat, as not all areas are air-conditioned, so plan your visit for cooler parts of the day. Bringing snacks and water is advisable, as the museum has limited food options. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to different cultures and artistic styles in a beautiful, historical setting.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
While phone photography is generally allowed, be mindful of any restrictions on professional camera equipment. The diverse art collections also offer unique photographic subjects, from intricate sculptures to vibrant paintings. Visiting during off-peak hours will give you more freedom to compose your shots without disturbing other visitors.
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the surrounding District 1 on foot, and you can have a rich cultural experience for very little money. Pack your own water and snacks to save on expenses, and enjoy hours of exploration in a beautiful, historic setting.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Gem
Exploring the museum involves moving between several interconnected colonial-era buildings. Each structure offers unique architectural features and a different perspective on the city's past. The sheer scale and beauty of the architecture make it a popular spot for photography, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets outside.
Visitors often praise the museum for its aesthetic appeal, noting how the elegant interiors complement the diverse artworks. It’s a place where history, art, and architecture converge, creating a memorable experience for anyone interested in culture and design.
A Journey Through Vietnamese Art
On the second floor, you can explore modern and contemporary art, featuring works that reflect Vietnam's social and cultural transformations. The third floor often highlights important female artists and their contributions to the art world.
For those interested in purchasing art, while there isn't a dedicated souvenir shop, the museum provides a glimpse into the kind of art available in Saigon. It's a fantastic place to appreciate the depth and diversity of Vietnamese creativity, from historical artifacts to cutting-edge modern expressions.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit