Saigon Central Post Office
A magnificent 19th-century French colonial post office, blending grandeur with history. Send a postcard from this iconic HCMC landmark!
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Saigon Central Post Office
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A magnificent 19th-century French colonial post office, blending grandeur with history. Send a postcard from this iconic HCMC landmark!
"It's so much more than just a post office; it's a part of Vietnam's living history.
"💌 Send a Postcard
Buy a postcard and stamps inside to send a unique souvenir.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The interior is as stunning as the exterior; don't miss the grand hall.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Grand Main Hall
Main interior
Marvel at the soaring vaulted ceilings, ornate ironwork, and vintage design that transports you to another era.

Send a Postcard
Post office counters
A timeless activity! Buy a postcard and send a piece of Saigon history to loved ones.
Colonial Architecture
Exterior and interior
Admire the stunning French colonial facade and the intricate details that make this building a masterpiece.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the History
Beat the Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💌 Send a Postcard
Buy a postcard and stamps inside to send a unique souvenir.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The interior is as stunning as the exterior; don't miss the grand hall.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Browse the small shops inside for unique gifts and local products.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm inside due to the crowds and lack of AC.
Tips
from all over the internet
💌 Send a Postcard
Buy a postcard and stamps inside to send a unique souvenir.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The interior is as stunning as the exterior; don't miss the grand hall.
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Browse the small shops inside for unique gifts and local products.
💧 Stay Hydrated
It can get warm inside due to the crowds and lack of AC.
💰 Pens Cost Extra
Be aware that even pens for writing postcards may have a small charge.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Saigon Central Post Office for its breathtaking colonial architecture and historical ambiance, often describing it as a living monument. The opportunity to send postcards adds a unique, nostalgic touch to the experience. While it can get crowded and warm, the charm and beauty of the building make it a highly recommended stop in Ho Chi Minh City.
"We visited the Central Post Office on 7th July around 10:30 AM, and honestly, it completely exceeded our expectations. Many people might think, “It’s just a post office” — but trust me, it’s so much more than that.
The moment you step inside, you’re hit with this amazing mix of colonial architecture, elegant interiors, and a really lively vibe. The high ceilings, arched windows, and vintage design make it feel like you’ve stepped back in time. It’s not just a building — it’s a part of Vietnam’s living history.
Inside, there are lots of little shops where you can grab souvenirs, SIM cards, beauty products, and even some snacks. It’s surprisingly convenient and a nice mix of old-world charm and modern hustle.
It was definitely crowded when we were there — tourists, locals, school kids — but in a good way. It just shows how loved this place really is. Despite the crowd, it didn’t feel overwhelming at all; the atmosphere was warm and welcoming.
And here’s the part I loved the most — you can buy a postcard, write something personal, and send it to anyone in the world right from here. There’s something really beautiful about that — in a world of instant messages, writing and sending a real postcard from such a historic place just feels special.
All in all, don’t skip this place thinking it’s just another government building. It’s an experience — beautiful, nostalgic, and full of character. Definitely one of the highlights of our time in Ho Chi Minh City."
Akshat Garg
"A must-visit landmark when you’re in Ho Chi Minh City. Even though I’ve been here a few times before, the charm of the Saigon Central Post Office never seems to fade. This time I only came to buy a few stamps, but ended up staying much longer, once again drawn in by its timeless beauty.
The architecture is a real showstopper — French colonial with ornate detailing that gives the building an almost palace-like feel. The arched ceiling inside, painted in a mix of green and gold with iron support beams, is visually stunning. The mosaic floor tiles are equally beautiful and well preserved, adding another layer of character. At the far end, the large portrait of Ho Chi Minh watching over the bustling space gives the post office both cultural and historical weight.
There are also old French maps painted directly onto the walls, one showing Southern Vietnam and Cambodia, which is a unique historical touch. Despite being a working post office, it also feels like a museum — and it does get quite warm inside due to the constant stream of visitors.
If you haven’t considered visiting this building yet, definitely put it on your list. It’s both iconic and inspiring.
Wednesday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Thursday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Friday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Saturday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Sunday 8:00 AM–5 PM
Monday 7:30 AM–6 PM
Tuesday 7:30 AM–6 PM"
John Winter
"I love this place and come every time to send postcards, when in HCMC. The architecture is so beautiful and overall the place is very well maintained. So you can feel the atmosphere of old times, including phone booths made of solid wood.
To send postcards to Europe will cost you about 35k for stamps. And they have a huge variety of cards to choose. Though, I bought real cute ones at Book street."
SHINE from WITHIN
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Saigon Central Post Office is centrally located in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It's easily accessible by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or public bus. Many visitors also walk to it if they are staying nearby or exploring other attractions like Notre Dame Cathedral, which is just across the street.
Parking for motorbikes is available nearby, but it can be busy. If you're arriving by car, it's best to use a taxi or ride-sharing service as dedicated car parking directly at the post office is limited.
Many travelers find Grab (ride-sharing app) to be very convenient and affordable for getting around HCMC. Taxis are also readily available. For shorter distances, walking is a great way to see the city.
Yes, several bus routes pass by or stop near the Saigon Central Post Office. Checking local bus maps or using a navigation app can help you find the most convenient route from your location.
The main entrance is generally accessible, but the interior can be crowded. While there are ramps, navigating through crowds might be challenging. It's advisable to go during less busy times if mobility is a concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the Saigon Central Post Office is free! It's a public building and a functioning post office, so you can walk in and explore its beautiful architecture without purchasing a ticket.
The post office is typically open from around 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sundays. It's always a good idea to double-check the exact hours before your visit, as they can sometimes vary.
Absolutely! Sending postcards and parcels is one of the most popular activities here. You can buy postcards, stamps, and even packaging materials inside.
Generally, photography is allowed inside for personal use. However, it's always respectful to be mindful of others and avoid obstructing staff or customers.
There is no entrance fee for tourists. The Saigon Central Post Office is a historical landmark and a working post office, welcoming visitors to admire its architecture and use its services.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can admire the stunning colonial architecture, send postcards, buy souvenirs from the small shops, and experience the bustling atmosphere of a historic post office.
Yes, it can get quite crowded, especially during peak tourist hours, as it's a popular attraction. However, the atmosphere is generally lively and welcoming.
Yes, there are several small shops within the post office selling souvenirs, local crafts, SIM cards, and other items.
It's a beautiful example of French colonial architecture, with influences from Gothic and Renaissance styles, combined with Asian decorative elements.
Most visitors spend about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how long they take to send postcards, browse shops, and take photos.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While it's primarily a post office, there are small kiosks and shops inside that might sell snacks or drinks. For a full meal, you'll find numerous restaurants and cafes in the surrounding streets.
The area around the post office is filled with diverse dining options, from local Vietnamese street food like banh mi and pho to international cuisine. Many cafes are also nearby.
Some of the small shops inside might offer beverages, including coffee. However, for a dedicated cafe experience, there are many options on the streets surrounding the post office.
The streets surrounding the post office are bustling with food vendors. You can find delicious banh mi, Vietnamese coffee, and other local delicacies.
You can find a range of dining options, from very affordable street food to mid-range restaurants. Eating like a local is generally budget-friendly.
📸 📸 Photography
The grand main hall with its vaulted ceiling and ornate details is a must-photograph. The exterior facade, especially the clock tower, is also iconic. Don't forget to capture the vintage phone booths and the portrait of Ho Chi Minh.
It can be challenging to get clear shots without people, especially during peak hours. Try visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or be patient and wait for brief lulls in the crowd.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive interior. However, a smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for most visitors, especially with good lighting.
Look for the intricate ironwork supporting the ceiling, the mosaic floor tiles, the arched windows, and the old French maps painted on the walls.
Drone photography is generally not permitted in busy urban areas like this, and especially not inside historical buildings. It's best to stick to handheld photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Architecture
Visitors often remark on the timeless beauty and the palace-like feel of the interior. Despite being a functional post office, it retains much of its original charm, including vintage wooden phone booths and old French maps painted directly onto the walls, depicting historical regions of Vietnam and Cambodia. This blend of historical significance and ongoing utility makes it a unique and captivating destination for any traveler exploring Ho Chi Minh City.
The Experience of Sending a Postcard
Once you've chosen your postcard, you can find a quiet spot to write your message. While pens are available, be aware that they might incur a small charge. After writing, head to the post office counters to buy stamps. The cost to send a postcard internationally, for example to Europe, is around 35,000 VND. The act of sending a physical postcard from such a historic and beautiful location adds a special layer to the travel experience, offering a contrast to instant digital communication.
Navigating the Post Office and Surrounding Area
The area surrounding the post office is also vibrant. It's located near other key attractions like the Notre Dame Cathedral and Book Street, making it easy to combine visits. For dining, the vicinity offers a plethora of options, from street food stalls serving delicious banh mi to cafes and restaurants catering to various tastes and budgets. While parking for motorbikes is available, it can be congested, so using ride-sharing apps like Grab or taxis is often a more straightforward option for getting to and from the post office.
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