Saigon Opera House
Iconic French colonial opera house hosting the mesmerizing AO Show, a cultural spectacle of dance and acrobatics.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical ambiance and energy
Saigon Opera House
Best Time
Magical ambiance and energy

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic French colonial opera house hosting the mesmerizing AO Show, a cultural spectacle of dance and acrobatics.
"Attending the A O Show at the iconic Ho Chi Minh City Opera House was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Saigon."
🎟️ Book AO Show Tickets Online
Secure your 'best seats' for the AO Show by booking online weeks ahead, though last-minute tickets are sometimes available .
✨ Visit at Night
Experience the unique energy and illuminated beauty of the opera house and its surroundings after dark .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The AO Show
Inside the Saigon Opera House
A mesmerizing cultural performance blending acrobatics, dance, and traditional music to tell Vietnam's story.

French Colonial Architecture
Exterior and Interior
Admire the ornate 19th-century French colonial design, a stunning architectural gem in the heart of the city.

Central City Location
District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Conveniently located, it's a hub for sightseeing buses and surrounded by restaurants and cafes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your AO Show Tickets Early
Evening Ambiance is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book AO Show Tickets Online
Secure your 'best seats' for the AO Show by booking online weeks ahead, though last-minute tickets are sometimes available.
✨ Visit at Night
Experience the unique energy and illuminated beauty of the opera house and its surroundings after dark.
Less touristy attractions/experience in HCMC?
📸 Capture the Architecture
The ornate French colonial design is a photographer's dream, especially when lit up at night.
🥤 Enjoy a Refreshing Drink
Some shows offer a free refreshing green tea upon entry, a nice touch for attendees.
BLOG: Things To Do In Saigon - The AO Show
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book AO Show Tickets Online
Secure your 'best seats' for the AO Show by booking online weeks ahead, though last-minute tickets are sometimes available.
✨ Visit at Night
Experience the unique energy and illuminated beauty of the opera house and its surroundings after dark.
📸 Capture the Architecture
The ornate French colonial design is a photographer's dream, especially when lit up at night.
🥤 Enjoy a Refreshing Drink
Some shows offer a free refreshing green tea upon entry, a nice touch for attendees.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Saigon Opera House, particularly for the captivating AO Show, praising its stunning French colonial architecture and intimate atmosphere. While some find the building smaller than European counterparts, its evening ambiance and central location are consistently highlighted as major draws. The AO Show itself is lauded for its emotional storytelling through dance and music, leaving a lasting impression on international audiences.
"Attending the A O Show at the iconic Ho Chi Minh City Opera House was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Saigon. The venue itself is stunning — a beautifully preserved French colonial building, elegant yet intimate, right in the heart of the city.
The show was nothing short of magical. Through acrobatics, contemporary dance, and live traditional music, it told a wordless yet deeply emotional story — from peaceful village life to the hustle of modern urban Vietnam. The performers were not only skilled but full of soul, using bamboo props and body language to convey meaning with grace and creativity.
As a Vietnamese, I felt truly proud to see our cultural identity portrayed so artfully on an international stage. What moved me the most was the audience’s response — endless applause from visitors across the globe. Those claps weren’t just for the show; they were a powerful recognition of the beauty and depth of Vietnamese culture.
🎭 Highlights:
– Mesmerizing visual storytelling with no spoken words
– Authentic live music and impressive choreography
– Intimate atmosphere, perfect lighting and sound
– Deep emotional connection, regardless of nationality"
Huong Mobert
"It is just ok. I was not impressed maybe because I have seen opera houses such as in Sydney, Budapest and Vienna. The building is beautiful and well maintained but it is very small and it is surrounded by vehicles which it loses its aura. However, I recommend you visit the opera house and especially in the night. The energy is very unique and you feel happy and relaxed. For those who visited bigger operas they will understand what I mean when I say I was not impressed."
Dimitris Apollonas Poseidonas Venetis
"The Saigon Opera House is a cult place that no one should miss, at least because of the wonderful architecture that this building has both outside and inside and because of the wonderful location where it is located. The buses for sightseeing in the city also leave from there. There are also many restaurants, cafes, and other interesting sights to see around, which are literally a few minutes away from each other."
Andy Cara Vaggio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Saigon Opera House is centrally located in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It's easily accessible by taxi, ride-sharing apps like Grab, or as a starting point for many city sightseeing bus tours.
Many visitors find it a convenient landmark to navigate from.Parking can be challenging in central Ho Chi Minh City. While some street parking might be available, it's often easier and more reliable to use ride-sharing services or taxis to reach the venue.
If you are staying in nearby hotels in District 1, walking to the Saigon Opera House is a pleasant option, allowing you to soak in the city's atmosphere.
For evening shows like the AO Show, ride-sharing apps are highly recommended for a convenient and direct trip to the Saigon Opera House, especially when returning to your accommodation.
While Ho Chi Minh City's public transport network is developing, the Opera House is a common stop for tourist buses and is well-served by taxis and ride-sharing services, making it accessible for most visitors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets for the AO Show online through their official website or authorized ticketing platforms. Many visitors also buy tickets directly from the front of the Opera House, though booking in advance is advised for better seats.
Ticket prices vary depending on the show and seating. For the AO Show, prices can range, and it's best to check the official ticketing channels for the most current information. Booking online can sometimes offer discounts or package deals.
The Saigon Opera House primarily operates for scheduled performances. While the building itself might not have general public visiting hours outside of shows, the box office is typically open during business hours for ticket inquiries and purchases.
It's possible to get tickets on the day of the show, especially for less popular performances or if you're willing to take seats not in the front row. However, for high-demand shows like the AO Show, booking ahead is strongly recommended.
Keep an eye on the official AO Show website or ticketing partners for any available promotions or promo codes. Sometimes, booking as part of a package or for groups might offer savings.
🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience
The AO Show is a captivating performance that uses acrobatics, contemporary dance, and live traditional Vietnamese music to tell stories of Vietnamese life and culture without spoken words. It's known for its emotional depth and artistic storytelling.
Even if you don't attend a performance, the Saigon Opera House is a stunning example of French colonial architecture and is worth seeing from the outside, especially when illuminated at night. Its central location also makes it a good point of interest.
The theatre is described as intimate, with seating arranged to provide good views. However, some angles might make it hard to see certain parts of the stage, so choosing seats closer to the stage is often preferred.
Attendees generally find the air conditioning inside the theatre to be comfortable and well-maintained, ensuring a pleasant viewing experience.
Yes, restroom facilities are available inside the Saigon Opera House and are generally reported to be well-maintained.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary by performance. Generally, flash photography is prohibited during shows to avoid disturbing performers and other audience members. It's best to check specific rules for the event you are attending.
The exterior of the Saigon Opera House is particularly photogenic, especially at night when it's illuminated. The surrounding area also offers good vantage points for capturing the building's grandeur.
Filming is typically not allowed during performances. For personal use outside of showtimes, it's advisable to inquire with the venue management.
For a mix of architectural detail and ambient light, late afternoon or early evening is ideal. However, the illuminated facade at night offers a completely different, magical perspective.
No, taking photos or videos of the AO Show performers during the performance is strictly prohibited to ensure the integrity of the show and the experience for all attendees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💖 Couples & Date Nights
🏛️ Culture Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Architectural Gem: Saigon Opera House
Inside, the theatre maintains its grandeur with plush seating, ornate chandeliers, and detailed decorations. While it may be considered smaller compared to European opera houses, its intimate setting contributes to a unique and engaging atmosphere for performances. The building has undergone several renovations to preserve its historical significance and ensure it remains a vibrant cultural venue for Ho Chi Minh City.
Experiencing the AO Show: A Cultural Tapestry
Performers utilize props like bamboo, baskets, and conical hats to create dynamic and visually striking scenes. The live music, featuring traditional Vietnamese instruments, adds an authentic layer to the storytelling. The intimate setting of the opera house enhances the audience's connection to the performers, creating a deeply moving and memorable cultural experience that resonates with people from all backgrounds. Booking tickets in advance is crucial, as the show is incredibly popular with both locals and tourists.
Beyond the Opera House: Exploring the Surroundings
Visitors can easily take a short walk to other notable landmarks such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Central Post Office, and the Reunification Palace. The vibrant streets surrounding the opera house offer a glimpse into the city's dynamic energy, with street vendors, bustling markets, and a lively atmosphere, especially in the evenings.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit