Independence Palace

Museum · Ho Chi Minh City ·

Independence Palace

Museum · Ho Chi Minh City ·

Historic landmark with grand rooms, bunkers, and war command center

Information

Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam Get directions

@michelinguide

48,380 Postcards · 8,030 Cities

A Guide to Ho Chi Minh City: Where to Explore, Indulge, Rest, and Enjoy in the Heart of Vietnam

"Historical residence and workplace of the President of the Republic of Vietnam before April 30, 1975." - Lana Tran

https://guide.michelin.com/en/article/travel/best-guide-to-ho-chi-minh-city-vietnam

Independence Palace

@afar

25,132 Postcards · 3,702 Cities

"Also known as the Reunification Palace, this Vietnamese landmark was constructed on the site of an old French-colonial governor’s residence. It has a remarkably varied past; it housed Japanese officials during World War II and was later the home of the president of South Vietnam during the Vietnam War. The imposing, broad, angular building played a seminal role in Vietnamese history: It was here on April 30, 1975, in an episode that came to be known as the Fall of Saigon, that a North Vietnamese army tank smashed through the gates, symbolically ending the Vietnam War. A tour of the palace is a step back decades in time—you'll encounter grand, formal rooms used as banquet halls, reception rooms, and government offices. You can also navigate through basement tunnels and former bunkers."

The Best Things to Do in Vietnam

Photo by Andre Lebrun/age fotostock

Independence Palace

@silverkris

10,054 Postcards · 2,273 Cities

How young architects are injecting life into Ho Chi Minh City's cityscape - SilverKris

"A grand, imposing public building that stands as a hallmark of Vietnamese Modernism from the 1950s–70s, notable for its monumental presence and historical significance within the city’s architectural legacy." - Michael Tatarski

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/arts-culture/design-architecture/ho-chi-minh-city-architecture/

Independence Palace

@silverkris

10,054 Postcards · 2,273 Cities

The path less travelled: Ho Chi Minh City’s hidden gems - SilverKris

"A Modernist-era public building that features on popular short walking routes through the central district, lying along a path from the Botanical Gardens past the cathedral and a notable century-old banyan tree. It serves as an architectural and historical waypoint amid the city’s mix of colonial legacy and modern redevelopment." - Connla Stokes

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/nature-adventure/travel-tips/ho-chi-minh-city-hidden-gems/

Independence Palace

Vu L.

Google

Visiting Independence Palace was a great experience, especially because I went there together with my foreign boss. It was his first time visiting this place, and honestly, he was really impressed from the moment we walked in. The outside of the palace already looks very elegant and calm, with lots of green trees around, right in the middle of a busy city. Once inside, it feels like stepping back in time. The architecture is unique and very well preserved, and every room tells a different story about Vietnam’s history. My boss kept saying how beautiful and “thoughtfully designed” everything was, especially the meeting rooms, the old offices, and even the basement areas. What I really like is that this place is not boring at all. There are many things to explore, from vintage furniture to war-time facilities, and you can easily spend a few hours here without feeling tired. The information boards are clear enough for foreigners to understand, and it’s easy to walk around at your own pace. For my boss, this visit helped him understand Vietnam beyond modern buildings and busy streets. For me, it was nice to see my own country through his eyes again. If you are bringing international friends or colleagues, this is definitely a must-visit place in Ho Chi Minh City. Beautiful, meaningful, and full of stories. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Franklin O.

Google

You need to look staff in red T-shirt to redeem your voucher. They hang around the entrance gate or the bus stop. If you don't see them, perhaps they go to the toilet. The palace itself is grandeur, with many chambers where the head of states and high-rank officials meet and discuss things. But you can only see from the outside. The doors are open, but you cannot come in. Be prepared for large crowds as many tour groups include this place in their package, thanks to the relatively low entrance ticket. There are three floors to explore. On the top floor, there is a chopper that might have been made retired. Overall, this place is worth-visiting to have a glimpse of what royal chambers actually look like. It adds to our knowledge of Vietnamese history.

Dr. Chris J. C.

Google

This is an absolute visit if a tourist. This is our second visit to Vietnam. We focused some time allowance with this location to fully understand and digest its rich history without rushing. Absolutely glad we did. Dress comfortably. Shorts are acceptable. Wear good walking shoes. Grounds have tanks, jet that were used during the Vietnam war with historical context explained. The Palace itself has been maintained with preventative maintenance of course to demonstrate what the Saigon - South Vietnam and heavily influenced by the US government was designed to support the South Vietnam President during the conflict. The Cabo et room, dining, bedrooms, war room via total bunker level was superb and well explained. The Huey on top of building with actual remnant present was beautiful to see and understand the pressure to vacate at end of war as the North prevailed. Very comfortable setting, adequate clean washrooms and friendly staff to support what is asked in souvenir shops and refreshment area.

Long T.

Google

Independence Palace is a must-visit in Ho Chi Minh City. The architecture is impressive and very well preserved, and walking through the rooms really feels like stepping back into an important moment of Vietnam's history. The underground bunker and war rooms are especially interesting. The location is perfect in District 1, easy to reach by walking or Grab, and surrounded by parks and other landmarks. The grounds are spacious and peaceful, making it a nice break from the busy city streets. Allow about 1-2 hours to explore properly. Highly recommended for anyone visiting HCMC, whether you're interested in history, architecture, or photography.

Nicole S.

Google

A fascinating and beautifully preserved piece of Vietnam’s history. Visiting Independence Palace offers a powerful insight into the political, cultural, and architectural story of the country. The exterior is striking, but it’s the interior that really stands out — grand meeting rooms, elegant halls, preserved offices, and the underground command bunkers with original communication equipment. Walking through the spaces where pivotal moments in history unfolded is both surreal and deeply informative. The contrast between the refined architecture above and the stark wartime facilities below is especially impactful. Clear signage, well-maintained exhibits, and a calm, spacious layout make it easy to explore at your own pace. A must-visit in Ho Chi Minh City for anyone interested in history, architecture, or understanding Vietnam’s past beyond the surface. Highly recommended and well deserving of 5 stars.

Lei A.

Google

Independence Palace is an important and well-maintained landmark that offers insight into Vietnam’s modern history. The building itself is impressive, with spacious rooms, period furnishings, and some striking architecture that reflects the era. The grounds are pleasant to walk through, and the visit provides useful context for understanding the country’s past. It’s a worthwhile stop for those interested in history, architecture, or learning more about Vietnam’s journey, and it fits well into a day of sightseeing in Ho Chi Minh City

Hunter R.

Google

Can’t miss a stop here! We loved learning about the history and significance of this Palace. Super beautiful grounds with awesome views of the corridor leading to the church. We had fun exploring all the rooms, bunker, and learning about the various events throughout the years. Make sure to check out the museum building near one of the side entrances for even more history. The helicopter on top was very cool, too!

Roman W.

Google

A fascinating glimpse into modern history with an excellent introductory tour. A significant, well-preserved historical site that is great for understanding 20th-century Vietnamese history through presidential living quarters and government meeting rooms. Note: Absolutely take the short, cheap (~1 USD) electric bus tour with its helpful audio guide summary to get the highlights. Best for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors wanting efficient context. Personal Details to Remember: The insight into the President of South Vietnam's living quarters and the various government meeting rooms. The electric bus tour is a standout for its exceptional value and concise overview.