Saigon Central Post Office & Notre-Dame Cathedral
In the midst of Ho Chi Minh City’s fast-paced streets and modern skyscrapers stand two architectural treasures — the Saigon Central Post Office and the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon. Located side-by-side in District 1, these French colonial landmarks offer a striking reminder of Vietnam’s storied past. For golf travelers visiting Vietnam Golf & Country Club or Tan Son Nhat Golf Course, this duo delivers a cultural break that contrasts beautifully with a day on the fairway.
Saigon Central Post Office: Elegant Heritage in Action
Constructed between 1886 and 1891, the Central Post Office was designed by Alfred Foulhoux (often mistakenly attributed to Gustave Eiffel). It reflects an exquisite mix of French Renaissance and Gothic elements. Upon entering, you’re welcomed by sweeping archways, intricate ironwork, and a high-vaulted ceiling that stretches across the long central hall. The walls are adorned with two vintage maps — one of Saigon and the surrounding region, and the other of telegraph lines from colonial times. Today, it still functions as a working post office, offering both utility and charm. Visitors can send postcards, browse artisan shops, and take photos with old wooden phone booths that harken back to the early 20th century.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica: Saigon’s Sacred Sentinel
Facing the post office is the red-bricked Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, built from materials imported from France. Construction began in 1863 and was completed by 1880, with its distinctive twin bell towers added in 1895. Reaching a height of 58 meters, these towers have long been a defining feature of the city skyline. The basilica’s interior, though currently under restoration, boasts stained glass windows, intricate tile flooring, and wooden pews that have seen decades of worship. Outside, the statue of the Virgin Mary gained international attention in 2005 when locals claimed to witness it shedding tears — a spiritual moment that drew massive crowds.
How to Get There from Nearby Golf Courses
- Vietnam Golf & Country Club: ~45-minute drive (21 km)
- Tan Son Nhat Golf Course: ~20-minute drive (7 km)
Visitors often combine a morning or afternoon round of golf with a cultural excursion into District 1. It’s easy to arrange private transfers or Grab rides, or to book city tours on:
Suggested Itinerary: Golf Meets City Heritage
- Morning: 18-hole round at Tan Son Nhat or Vietnam Golf & Country Club
- Midday: Local lunch in District 3 — try Pho Hoa Pasteur or Bep Me In
- Afternoon: Visit Saigon Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral
- Late Afternoon: Stroll Nguyen Van Binh Book Street and Independence Palace
- Evening: Rooftop dinner and drinks at The View or EON51 Skybar
Nearby Attractions Worth Adding
Make the most of your downtown visit with these additional stops:
- Nguyen Van Binh Book Street: A quiet pedestrian lane with bookstores, coffee shops, and shade trees.
- Independence Palace: The former presidential headquarters of South Vietnam with historic war rooms and preserved interiors.
- Saigon Opera House: Elegant French colonial theater with evening performances of traditional and contemporary shows.
Where to Eat and Unwind
- L’Usine: Stylish café and boutique that combines French-Vietnamese design with international cuisine.
- The Running Bean: Cozy specialty coffee shop with minimalist interiors and great espresso.
- Secret Garden: Hidden rooftop restaurant offering authentic home-style Vietnamese dishes and lantern-lit ambiance.
Travel Tips for Golfers & Sightseers
- Visit before 10:00 AM or after 3:00 PM to avoid tourist crowds and midday heat.
- The cathedral’s interior may be closed for restoration — check in advance.
- Modest clothing is recommended out of respect for religious customs.
- Souvenirs like postcards, old coins, and ceramic stamps are great affordable finds inside the post office.
Where to Stay in Saigon
Stay in District 1 for walking access to all major landmarks, or choose golf-friendly resorts with shuttle service. Book top-rated accommodations via:
Why It’s a Must-Visit for Golf Travelers
Golfing in Saigon is all about convenience and access, and no experience captures the city’s colonial soul like a visit to these iconic landmarks. Whether you’re teeing off in the morning or winding down after a tournament, this brief city stop adds richness and variety to your golf holiday — without venturing far.
Final Thoughts
The Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral form a timeless pair — architectural icons that have witnessed Vietnam’s transformation across centuries. Their location in the heart of Saigon makes them perfect for golfers seeking culture without losing time on the green. Slow down, look up, and take a photo — you’re walking through history. Explore more Places of Interest in Vietnam and discover why Ho Chi Minh City is more than a golf destination — it’s a vibrant journey through culture, cuisine, and colonial charm.
Useful Golf Resources in Vietnam
Travel Visas & Entry Tips (VisaHQ)
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