Notre Dame Cathedral

As you would expect, the beautiful Notre Dame Cathedral was constructed by the French during its colonial period. Today, it’s one of the few remaining Catholic churches in the city. This alone makes it one of the best things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, especially if you can’t make it to Paris!

This stunning creation was built in bright orange stone and features ornate detailing with twin bell towers (58 meters high!). The interior is quite plain, but a striking feature here is the 3D tiled floor that runs down the central aisle. You’ll likely find the Notre Dame Cathedral on many Ho Chi Minh City travel guides given its rich historical ties and impressive architecture.

How to get there

The church is conveniently located right in the center of Ho Chi Minh (district 1), so is easily accessible from wherever you are in the city - making it one of the top things to do in Ho Chi Minh city. 

You can go there by car, taxi or bus. It will take 20 minutes from the center of Ho Chi Minh city via Cong Hoa Street. You can go there by bus. If you are taking a bus, bus number  04, 120, 18, 30, 31, 36, 93 can help you.

Best time to visit

There's no entrance fee if you want to visit the cathedral, but it does have strict opening times. It’s open daily from 8 AM to 11 AM and from 2 PM to 4 PM daily. 

• Weekday Mass: 5.30 AM and 5.30 PM. 
• Every Sunday: 5.30 AM; 6.45 AM; 8 AM; 9.30 AM; 4.00 PM; 5.30 PM; 6.30 PM. 
• Every Sunday, 9.30 AM Mass is in English.