Uncover The History at 11 Must-See Museum in Ho Chi Minh City

Museums in Ho Chi Minh City are vibrant reflections of Vietnam’s rich heritage, offering a glimpse into history, culture, and art. From wartime memorabilia to fine arts and fashion, these museums preserve the past while deepening our understanding of the nation’s identity. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an art lover, or a curious traveler, here are the top museums to explore in the city.

1. War Remnants Museum

The War Remnants Museum, also known as vietnam war museum ho chi minh city, is under the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, is part of Vietnam’s museum system and the International Council of Museums (ICOM). It is one of the must-visit museum in Ho Chi Minh City due to its vast exhibition scale and significant historical value.

The museum collects, preserves, and exhibits documents, images, and artifacts that depict the devastating consequences of the war in Vietnam. These exhibits convey a message of resilience, independence, peace, and international solidarity.

A collection of over 20,000 documents, artifacts, and photographs, 1,500 of which are on regular display, helps the museum attract around 500,000 visitors annually, making it a significant cultural and historical destination. The exhibition areas are arranged thematically, offering visitors a comprehensive view of history:

• First Floor: Displays 100 photos and 145 artifacts showcasing global anti-war movements supporting Vietnam (1954 - 1975). This area also features large war relics and a prison model depicting the imprisonment of revolutionaries.
• Second Floor: This floor features 125 photos, 22 documents, and 243 artifacts depicting brutal war crimes committed by the U.S., including massacres of civilians, the devastation caused by bombings, and the lasting suffering endured by the Vietnamese people. It also highlights the catastrophic effects of Agent Orange, showcasing its long-term impact on multiple generations and the environment.
• Third Floor: Showcasing 66 photos, 20 documents, and 153 artifacts, this floor delves into war crimes from the French colonial era to the Vietnam War. Visitors can also explore the "Remembrance" exhibit, a collection of photos taken by journalists who lost their lives in action, "Vietnam: War and Peace", which offers a raw perspective on life before and after the war.

Here are some key seasonal activities offering visitors a deeper insight into history:

• Exhibits: Dien Bien Phu in the Air – 50 Years in Retrospect, Retracing Memories, Reviving the Dead Lands, The Paris Agreement on Vietnam – A Gateway to Peace
• Traveling Exhibitions: Vietnam – War and Peace, Vietnamese Women's Ao Dai Through the Flames of War, Vietnam’s Islands and Seas – Beauty and Tranquility

Important notes for visitors:

• Dress respectfully and follow museum regulations.
• Store large luggage and secure personal belongings.
• Contact the museum in advance for group visits to avoid long waits.
• Exhibits are in both English and Vietnamese, with audio guides available.
• Keep children away from the "Consequences of Agent Orange" exhibit, which is in a separate area.
• Nearby famous attractions include the Southern Women's Museum, Independence Palace, and Saigon Zoo.

War Remnants Museum is a solemn space where war remnants narrate the tragic yet resilient history of the nation (Source: Bảo tàng Chứng tích Chiến tranh - War Remnants Museum)

2. Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History

The Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History was established in 1929, making it one of the oldest museums in southern Vietnam. Initially, it was named the Blanchard de la Brosse Museum after the Governor of Cochinchina during the French colonial period. In 1956, it was renamed the National Museum of Vietnam and began showcasing ancient art collections from various Asian cultures.

Today, the museum houses approximately 40,000 valuable artifacts, reflecting Vietnam’s historical and cultural journey from prehistoric times to 1945. Beyond being a fascinating tourist destination, it also serves as a significant research center for experts in history, culture, and society.

A classical building with Western influences, marking the ups and downs of Saigon - Gia Dinh’s history (Source: Bảo Tàng Lịch Sử Thành Phố Hồ Chí Minh)

When visiting, visitors have the opportunity to learn about history through unique exhibition areas, each space providing insight into the war and stories of those involved.

• Temporary Exhibition: Regularly organizes thematic exhibitions on history, culture, and heritage, offering diverse perspectives across different periods.
• Permanent Exhibition, consisting of three main sections:
  • Vietnamese History from Prehistoric Times to the Nguyen Dynasty: Showcases archaeological artifacts, Dong Son bronze objects, imperial ceramics, and historical documents.
  • Culture of Southern Vietnamese Ethnic Groups and Some Asian Countries: Highlights the unique heritage of Cham, Khmer, Chinese, and other Asian civilizations.
  • Outdoor Cannon Display: Features Nguyen Dynasty cannons, reflecting ancient military technology.
• Collection of valuable artifacts, notably including:
  • Minh Mang’s Bronze Vessels: A collection of 12 Nguyen Dynasty bronze vessels symbolizing governance philosophy.
  • National Treasures: 12 artifacts from Buddhist and Hindu art, originating from the Funan - Oc Eo and Champa cultures.

Beyond artifacts, the museum also has Interactive programs, including talks with war veterans and eyewitnesses, providing firsthand accounts of historical events, making the experience even more immersive.

Each artifact is a precious puzzle piece, reconstructed over years of history (Source: Bảo tàng Lịch sử Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh - History Museum in HCMC)

Important notes for visitors:

• Dress appropriately and avoid overly revealing clothing
• Do not touch exhibits or damage displayed materials
• Maintain silence and avoid making excessive noise
• Photography is limited in certain areas, follow museum guidelines
• Guided tours are available in multiple languages, including English and French
• The museum provides elevators, restrooms, and a souvenir shop
• Nearby famous attractions include Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Ben Thanh Market

3. Museum of Ho Chi Minh City

The Museum of Ho Chi Minh City is a significant historical landmark, designed by French architect Alfred Foulhoux in 1885 and completed in 1890. Initially, the building was intended for showcasing local products, but it later became the residence of Indochina's Vice Governor Henri Eloi Danel and successive Governors of Cochinchina.

Commonly referred to as Gia Long Palace due to its location on Gia Long Street, the museum spans nearly 2 hectares, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the history, culture, and development of Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City.

Nestled peacefully in the bustling city center, the building exudes the elegance of classic French architecture (Source: Cục Du lịch Quốc gia Việt Nam)

The museum exhibits a strong Gothic architectural influence while incorporating Eastern-style roofing. The building’s façade features large and small columns reminiscent of the Louvre Museum in Paris. Originally, two rows of columns flanked the entrance, but in 1943, these were replaced with a portico, blending Western and Eastern design elements harmoniously.

The space inside the museum is luxurious and classic, suitable for photo shoots (Source: Bảo tàng Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh - Museum of Ho Chi Minh City)

The museum is divided into three main exhibition areas, each offering a unique and diverse experience:

• Permanent Exhibitions: This section chronicles the formation and development of Ho Chi Minh City through different historical periods, from its early days to the modern era. Some of the popular rooms here:
  • "Nature – Archaeology" Room: This exhibition provides detailed insights into the city's geology, climate, ecosystem, mineral resources, and human life dating back 3,500 years. Visitors can explore archaeological relics such as stone axes, hoes, and ancient jewelry, offering a vivid glimpse into the region’s early history.
  • "Port – Trade and Services of Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City" Room: Featuring over 527 artifacts, 36 photographs, 10 maps, and documents, this section highlights Saigon’s role in regional and national trade. Visitors can learn about the city's port system, traditional markets, and the evolution of transportation, from railways to airplanes.
  • "Industry – Handicrafts" Room: Showcasing nearly 300 artifacts and images, this room presents traditional handicrafts such as pottery, jewelry-making, bronze casting, wood carving, and textile weaving. These exhibits provide a deep insight into Saigon’s industrial and artisanal development in the late 19th century.
• Thematic Exhibitions: Regularly held thematic exhibitions focus on specific historical periods, key historical figures, or major events in the city's history. These exhibitions offer visitors an in-depth look at different aspects of Saigon – Ho Chi Minh City's development.
• Online Exhibitions: The museum also offers an online exhibition platform, allowing visitors to explore its collections remotely.

A diverse exhibition space guiding visitors through Saigon’s historical transformations (Source: Bảo tàng Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh - Museum of Ho Chi Minh City)

Important notes for visitors:

• Dress formally and politely.
• Please avoid bringing food or drinks into the Ho Chi Minh City Museum, and help maintain a clean and quiet environment during your visit.
• Do not touch historical artifacts, equipment or rooms not reserved for visiting.
• Nearby famous attractions include Saigon Opera House, Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Vincom Center Dong Khoi

You can check out the article ho chi minh city museum for more detail.

4. Ton Duc Thang Museum

Ton Duc Thang Museum in Ho Chi Minh City was established to commemorate the 100th anniversary of President Ton Duc Thang’s birth (August 20, 1888 - August 20, 1988) and to honor his revolutionary life and career. Initially, it was named the Exhibition House on the Life and Career of President Ton Duc Thang, reflecting its primary function of displaying documents and artifacts related to the late leader.

On August 13, 1990, the site was officially renamed the Ton Duc Thang Museum, signifying its expanded role as a significant cultural and historical institution that allows visitors to gain deeper insights into his life, ideology, and immense contributions to the nation.

The statue of President Ton Duc Thang stands tall in front of the museum, embodying his unwavering spirit as a son of the river region (Source: Bảo tàng Tôn Đức Thắng - Ton Duc Thang Museum)

Currently, the museum features five exhibition halls spanning a total area of 700m², vividly portraying the life and career of President Ton Duc Thang through more than 17,000 artifacts, images, and historical documents.

• "Ton Duc Thang and Southern Vietnam" Exhibition: Displays images and documents showcasing his significant contributions to the revolutionary movement in Southern Vietnam, particularly during the fight for national reunification.
• "Gifts to President Ton Duc Thang" Exhibition: Showcases over 50 artifacts gifted by the Ho Chi Minh Museum, representing the admiration and love of both Vietnamese citizens and international friends.
• "Ton Duc Thang and the First National Assembly (1946 - 1960)" Exhibition: With over 60 artifacts, documents, and images, visitors can gain insight into his role as Vice Chairman and later Chairman of Vietnam’s first National Assembly.
• Memorial Room for President Ton Duc Thang: Designed in the Southern Vietnamese worship style, featuring two lacquer paintings depicting the stilt house where he spent his childhood. This room serves as a sacred space where city officials and organizations pay tribute on special anniversaries.
• Permanent Exhibitions: Additional exhibitions include “Ton Duc Thang in Fine Arts”, “15 Years in Con Dao Prison”, “The Life and Career of President Ton Duc Thang”, and “Ton Duc Thang at ATK - Viet Bac”, providing a comprehensive view of his revolutionary journey.

Photos of resilient soldiers and secret wartime meetings come alive through each exhibit (Source: Bảo tàng Tôn Đức Thắng - Ton Duc Thang Museum)

The worship area dedicated to President Ton Duc Thang exudes a solemn and respectful atmosphere, honoring his enduring legacy (Source: Bảo tàng Tôn Đức Thắng - Ton Duc Thang Museum)

Visitors engage with the stories behind each exhibit, immersing themselves in the rich history and artistry on display (Source: Bảo tàng Tôn Đức Thắng - Ton Duc Thang Museum)

Beyond its rich collection, this famous museum in Ho Chi Minh City stands out with its solemn architectural design, emphasizing historical value. Visitors not only witness invaluable artifacts but also gain a deeper understanding of President Ton Duc Thang’s patriotism, resilience, and simple yet noble character.

Important notes for visitors:

• Proper attire is required to maintain a respectful atmosphere.
• Food, drinks, and inappropriate items are not allowed in the exhibition areas.
• Visitors should remain quiet, avoid touching exhibits, and follow museum etiquette.
• The museum provides guided tours, and bilingual (Vietnamese - English) exhibit descriptions are also available.
• Nearby famous attractions include Saigon Zoo, Bach Dang Wharf, Saigon Opera House.

5. Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine

The Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine (also known as Fito Museum) is the first museum in Vietnam dedicated to showcasing and preserving the country’s traditional medicine heritage. Located at District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, the museum is not only a repository of traditional medical knowledge but also a center for promoting and preserving the wisdom of Eastern medicine. It is an ideal destination for those interested in learning about the history of natural remedies, ancient healing techniques, and the therapeutic practices passed down through the centuries

A lush bamboo grove frames the entrance, evoking memories of Vietnamese villages and traditional herbal medicine (Source: Bảo Tàng Y Học Cổ Truyền - Fito Museum)

Designed in the style of traditional wooden architecture, the Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine exudes a strong Eastern cultural essence. The six-story museum houses over 3,000 valuable artifacts, vividly illustrating the evolution of traditional medicine from its earliest origins to modern times.

• 1st Floor – Reception & Overview: Visitors are introduced to the history of Vietnamese traditional medicine through a documentary film. The space is adorned with ancient-style decorations, including bas-reliefs and paintings depicting renowned physicians and herbal remedies.
• 2nd Floor – Origins & Renowned Physicians: This section recounts the development of traditional medicine and features information on famous physicians such as Tue Tinh and Hai Thuong Lan Ong, highlighting their invaluable contributions to Vietnamese medicine.
• 3rd Floor – Herbal Medicine & Preparation: Here, visitors can explore over 1,000 medicinal herbs, including Vietnamese, Chinese, and rare herbal remedies. Traditional medicine-processing tools such as mortars, herbal slicers, and decoction pots are also on display.
• 4th Floor – Ancient Traditional Medicine Clinic: This floor recreates a traditional Eastern medicine clinic, complete with pulse-diagnosing tables, medicine cabinets, precision scales, and ancient prescription records.
• 5th Floor – Herbal Prescription & Pulse Diagnosis Experience: Visitors can participate in hands-on activities, such as prescribing herbal medicine, learning pulse diagnosis, or witnessing traditional medicine preparation methods like grinding and slicing herbs.
• 6th Floor – Traditional Medicine in Culture & Art: This area showcases ancient medical books, scrolls, ceramic artifacts, and sculptures related to traditional medicine, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Vietnam’s healing practices.

The Museum of Traditional Vietnamese Medicine features authentic wooden architecture, evoking an old apothecary’s charm. With over 3,000 artifacts, it showcases ancient medical books, physician portraits, and healing models. Visitors can enjoy interactive experiences, from herbal medicine preparation to acupressure demonstrations, while also exploring Vietnam’s rich healing traditions and cultural philosophies.

Display counters filled with precious herbs showcase Vietnam’s ancient medical heritage (Source: Bảo Tàng Y Học Cổ Truyền - Fito Museum)

Traditional herbal liquors, carefully distilled and aged, embody Vietnamese medicinal in every drop (Source: Bảo Tàng Y Học Cổ Truyền - Fito Museum)

Neatly arranged wooden shelves hold an array of medicinal herbs (Source: Bảo Tàng Y Học Cổ Truyền - Fito Museum)

Important notes for visitors:

• English translations are available for all exhibit descriptions.
• Guided tours in Vietnamese and English are offered (booking is recommended for groups).
• Photography and filming are allowed, but visitors must not touch the artifacts.
• Herbal tea and traditional medicine products are available for purchase as souvenirs.
• Nearby famous attractions include Vietnamese National Buddhist Temple, Peace Theater

6. South-Vietnamese Women Museum

The Southern Women’s Museum is a historically significant museum in Ho Chi Minh City that preserves and recreates the great contributions of Southern Vietnamese women throughout different periods. The museum was originally the Southern Women’s Traditional House, established to honor patriotism and preserve the good traditions of Vietnamese women for future generations.

With an urgent working spirit, the initial museum was inaugurated on April 29, 1985, marking the 10th anniversary of the South’s liberation. However, its limited 200m² space with only six galleries was not enough to fully convey the diverse roles of Southern women in Vietnam’s history. As a result, a larger museum was constructed on March 8, 1986, and officially inaugurated on May 18, 1990.

Currently, the museum covers an area of 5,410m², featuring a large hall with a capacity of nearly 1,000 people and a storage system of over 700m². It houses more than 31,360 artifacts, 15,000 documentary films and photos, and 12,000 books related to Vietnamese women.

The statue of a Southern Vietnamese woman stands proudly in front of the museum, symbolizing resilience and sacrifice (Source: Bảo tàng Phụ Nữ Nam Bộ)

Photos and artifacts tell the stories of resilient women in work and battle (Source: Bảo Tàng Phụ Nữ Nam Bộ - Southern Women's Museum)

The traditional ao dai of Southern Vietnamese women reflects a timeless grace, with delicate patterns and flowing silhouettes that tell stories of the past (Source: Bảo Tàng Phụ Nữ Nam Bộ - Southern Women's Museum)

The portraits of the Heroic Vietnamese Mothers of the South honor their immense dedication and sacrifice for national liberation and defense (Source: Bảo Tàng Phụ Nữ Nam Bộ - Southern Women's Museum)

The Southern Women’s Museum offers a comprehensive display system divided into different sections, each reflecting the diverse aspects of Southern Vietnamese women’s lives, culture, and history. The exhibition highlights the crucial role women played in revolutionary movements, showcases their cultural heritage, and honors those who made significant contributions to the nation. Visitors can explore historical artifacts, traditional attire, and personal memorabilia, gaining a deeper understanding of the resilience and beauty of Vietnamese women across generations.

• Exhibition on the Women's Revolutionary Movements: Highlights the contributions of Southern women in the resistance wars against the French and Americans, featuring documents, photographs, and personal belongings of female revolutionaries.
• Cultural and Daily Life Exhibition: Showcases traditional clothing, jewelry, and household tools, with a special collection of ao dai through different historical periods, illustrating changing fashion trends.
• Hall of Honor for Heroic Women and Vietnamese Heroic Mothers: Pays tribute to exemplary women in national struggles and reconstruction, displaying memorabilia, letters, and touching stories of Vietnamese Heroic Mothers.
• Library and Archive Exhibition: Contains over 12,000 books on the history and culture of Vietnamese women, along with a vast collection of films and documents on past and present women’s movements.

A museum filled with historical essence, celebrating the strength and grace of Vietnamese women (Source: Bảo Tàng Phụ Nữ Nam Bộ - Southern Women's Museum)

Important notes for visitors:

• Dress appropriately and maintain a respectful demeanor.
• Photography is allowed, but avoid areas with "No Photography" signs.
• Do not touch the exhibits directly.
• Nearby famous attractions include Le Van Tam Park, Tan Dinh Market, Independence Palace.

Ao dai – symbols of Southern Vietnamese women's beauty (Source: Bảo Tàng Phụ Nữ Nam Bộ - Southern Women's Museum)

7. Ao Dai Museum

Officially opened on January 22, 2014, the Ao Dai Museum is a must-visit for those who appreciate Vietnamese culture. It is not only a place to showcase Ao Dai designs throughout history but also a valuable archive of artifacts, documents, and images about this iconic attire. Covering 2,000m², the museum is designed in the traditional "Nha Ruong" architectural style, featuring yin-yang tiled roofs and wooden frames collected from Quang Nam, creating a nostalgic and serene atmosphere.

The museum’s introduction board features an image of a traditional woman in an Ao Dai, evoking the elegance and heritage of Vietnam (Source: Bảo Tàng Áo Dài)

The Ao Dai Museum preserves over 300 traditional Ao Dai designs, showcasing the evolution of this national dress through different historical periods:

• Historical Ao Dai Exhibition: Displays Ao Dai styles from the five-panel tunic, four-panel tunic, French colonial-era Ao Dai, to modern adaptations.
• Notable Figures’ Ao Dai: Features Ao Dai worn by significant individuals in politics, arts, and culture.
• Thematic Exhibition Areas: Includes “Ao Dai and Cultural Heritage”, “Bau Truc Pottery”, and “Ao Dai with UNESCO-recognized Vietnamese Intangible Cultural Heritage” such as Quan Ho folk songs, Vi Giam, and Don Ca Tai Tu.
• Permanent Exhibition: Showcases the transformation of Ao Dai with unique materials such as ceramic, brocade, beaded, and hand-painted designs.
• Special and Traveling Exhibitions: Themes like “Ao Dai and ASEAN National Flags”, “Ao Dai and ASEAN National Flowers”, and interactive mobile exhibits promote the cultural significance of Ao Dai.

From traditional to modern ao dai, each piece tells a unique story (Source: Bảo Tàng Áo Dài)

The warm, dim lighting casts a nostalgic glow, enhancing the elegance of the traditional ao dai on display (Source: Bảo tàng Áo Dài Việt Nam)

A diverse collection of ao dai, from classic to contemporary designs, showcases the beauty and evolution of Vietnamese culture (Source: Bảo tàng Áo Dài Việt Nam)

More than just exhibits, there are various immersive activities that visitors can enjoy:

• "Rural Market" on Weekends: A traditional market offering authentic Vietnamese street food and an experience of rural Southern Vietnam’s lifestyle.
• Art Performances: Live demonstrations of UNESCO-recognized Vietnamese folk arts like Quan Ho, Vi Giam, and Don Ca Tai Tu.
• Photo Opportunities: Visitors can rent Ao Dai and capture stunning photos at scenic spots like wooden bridges, old houses, and cultural sites such as Ngu Hanh Mieu and Vong Nguyet Tea Pavilion.
• Ao Dai Tailoring Workshop: Hands-on experience in designing, cutting, sewing, and embroidering Ao Dai under expert guidance.
• Souvenir Shop: Offers handcrafted items like conical hats, Ao Dai dolls, and notebooks inspired by Vietnamese heritage.

The lush, scenic space of the museum is perfect for capturing cultural memories (Source: Bảo tàng Áo Dài Việt Nam)

Important notes for visitors:

• Please wear appropriate and neat attire when visiting the museum.
• Vehicles should be parked in designated areas or as instructed by museum staff.
• Visitors must maintain cleanliness and dispose of trash properly in designated bins.
• Photography and filming require prior approval from the museum.
• Do not play in hazardous areas such as ponds and rivers without staff permission.
• Food and pets are not allowed inside the museum.
• Nearby famous attractions include Tam Da Lotus Pond, Song Long Ecotourism Area, Chau Doc Pagoda 3.

8. Quang San Art Museum

Quang San Art Museum is the first private art museum in Ho Chi Minh City, preserving and exhibiting over 1,500 valuable works of art that hold significant historical and cultural value. Established with the mission of sharing and serving the public’s appreciation of fine arts, the museum aims to be a strong cultural space that fosters meaningful conversations about art, enhances the value of artworks, and spreads the love of art among the Vietnamese people.

All paintings and sculptures on display belong to the private collection of Mr. Nguyen Thieu Quang (born in 1959) and his wife, Mrs. Phung Minh Nguyet (born in 1963). After more than 20 years of collecting, Mr. Quang realized that if these masterpieces remained confined within a personal space, few art lovers would have the chance to admire them. Thus, the museum was founded to make fine art more accessible to the public.

The modest exterior, with two lush trees by the entrance and a simple stone bench, offers a peaceful yet artistic ambiance (Source: Bảo tàng Nghệ thuật Quang San - Quang San Art Museum)

Quang San Art Museum consists of three floors, each dedicated to a different artistic period in Vietnamese history.

• First Floor: Showcases works from renowned painters and sculptors who significantly contributed to the early development of modern Vietnamese fine arts. This collection includes masterpieces by influential artists such as Tri - Can - Van - Lan, Nghiem - Lien - Sang - Phai and Thu - Pho - Luu - Dam.
• Second Floor: Divides into two sections:
  • Section 1: Continues the exhibition of early graduates from the Indochina School of Fine Arts and contemporary artists such as Nguyen Khang, musician Van Cao, Mai Van Hien, and Phan An.
  • Section 2: Focuses on the resistance period and the Vietnam War, displaying works by artists who were directly involved in wartime, including those from the Vietnam College of Fine Arts and Gia Đinh School of Fine Arts.
• Third Floor: Features works from the post-reunification period and the Doi Moi (1986) era, reflecting the dynamic growth of modern Vietnamese fine arts. Currently, around 200 paintings are exhibited, with a rotational display of over 1,000 pieces from Mr. Nguyen Thieu Quang’s collection.

Vibrant paintings reflecting diverse perspectives on life (Source: Bảo tàng Nghệ thuật Quang San - Quang San Art Museum)

Visitors immerse themselves in the artwork, finding stories woven into every brushstroke (Source: Bảo tàng Nghệ thuật Quang San - Quang San Art Museum)

The quiet connection between the observer and the masterpiece creates a moment of reflection (Source: Bảo tàng Nghệ thuật Quang San - Quang San Art Museum)

Important notes for visitors:

• Dress in respectful attire when heading to the museum.
• Do not touch the artwork.
• Only use pencils for sketching or note-taking.
• No food or drinks inside exhibition rooms.
• Large bags must be left at the reception.
• Photography and filming are allowed (no flash, selfie sticks, or additional lighting).

9. Fine Arts Museum

The Fine Arts Museum was built in 1987 and officially opened in 1989. Over the years, it has become a prominent cultural destination in Saigon, attracting art lovers from all over the world. Architecturally, the museum showcases the grandeur of early 20th-century French Baroque design, blending Eastern and Western influences. Its dominant yellow facade, red-tiled roof, and intricate green-glazed eaves create an elegant yet historic atmosphere amidst the vibrant cityscape.

The museum showcases the grandeur of early 20th-century French Baroque design (Source: Bảo tàng Mỹ thuật TP. HCM - Fine Arts Museum, HCMC)

The museum consists of three main buildings, each serving a distinct exhibition purpose:

• First building: Showcases over 21,000 artworks, including wartime sketches, Indochina and Gia Dinh school masterpieces, and iconic Southern Vietnamese art.
• Second building: A dynamic exhibition space hosting 10–25 major annual showcases featuring Vietnamese and international artists from Japan, China, Russia, Italy, and ASEAN.
• Third building: Displays ancient and early modern art, with ceramic, wood, and stone artifacts influenced by Oc Eo and Cham Pa cultures, offering insights into Vietnam’s artistic heritage.

The museum space is quite large with a variety of works of art from paintings to ceramics (Source: Bảo tàng Mỹ thuật TP. HCM - Fine Arts Museum, HCMC)

Visitors can explore ancient sculptures and intricate wood carvings that reflect the nation’s diverse cultural heritage (Source: Bảo tàng Mỹ thuật TP. HCM - Fine Arts Museum, HCMC)

Le Ba Dang Art Space - where art becomes a meditation on life, nature and the infinite (Source: Bảo tàng Mỹ thuật TP. HCM - Fine Arts Museum, HCMC)

Important notes for visitors:

• Visitors should wear appropriate and respectful attire.
• Photography is allowed in certain areas, but flash photography is prohibited to protect the artwork.
• Touching exhibits is strictly forbidden.
• Maintain a quiet atmosphere to ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors.
• Nearby famous attractions include Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, Nguyen Hue Walking Street.

For more detail about this museum, check out our article Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts - Guide for Art Enthusiasts.

10. Do Hung Museum

Located in District 10, Ho Chi Minh City, Do Hung Museum is a must-visit museum in Ho Chi Minh City for those passionate about Vietnamese history and culture. After a period of preparation, the museum officially opened its doors to visitors, featuring two specialized exhibition spaces:

• The Nguyen’s Royal Museum: A vivid reconstruction of royal life through 13 generations of Nguyen emperors, showcasing original artifacts, luxurious furnishings, and imperial pastimes.
• Vietnam's 54 Ethnic Groups Jewelry Museum: A fascinating collection of traditional jewelry spanning 2,500 years, reflecting the diversity in materials, designs, and cultural expressions.

Important notes for visitors:

• Photography is allowed in some areas, but certain sections have restrictions that must be followed.
• Nearby famous attractions include Vietnamese National Buddhist Temple, Peace Theater

Exquisite brocade clothing preserving the unique culture of Vietnamese ethnic groups (Source: Bảo Tàng Đỗ Hùng - Cổ vật Hoàng cung triều Nguyễn & Trang sức 54 Dân tộc)

The king’s palanquin at Do Hung Museum evokes a reign remembered (Source: Do Hung Museum)

Nguyen Dynasty garments embodying the splendour and sophistication of a bygone royal court (Source: Do Hung Museum)

Diverse collection of jewelry from different ethnic groups (Source: Bảo Tàng Đỗ Hùng - Cổ vật Hoàng cung triều Nguyễn & Trang sức 54 Dân tộc)

11. Geological Museum of Vietnam

The Geological Museum of Vietnam is a specialized museum under the Natural Science Museum System in Vietnam and an official member of the International Council of Museums (ICOM). With over 20,000 geological and mineral specimens, the museum plays a crucial role in preserving, researching, and showcasing Vietnam’s geological and mineral wealth alongside global collections.

The museum’s exterior exudes a rustic and aged charm, much like the traces of time it preserves through its geological exhibits (Source: Bảo tàng Địa chất - Geological Museum of Vietnam)

The museum covers a total area of approximately 300m², featuring an early modern Vietnamese architectural style. Its nostalgic atmosphere, highlighted by wooden display cabinets, staircases, and hallways, evokes memories of old Saigon. The museum consists of three floors, each dedicated to a specific theme:

• First Floor: Displays a geological map of Vietnam at a 1:500,000 scale, completed in 1988 after years of research by geologists. This floor also exhibits precious gemstones such as quartz, jade, ruby, sapphire, and topaz, representing the rich geological diversity of Vietnam.
• Second Floor: Showcases fossil specimens of plants and animals, along with unique paleontology collections. The space retains a vintage ambiance, with hallways and staircases reminiscent of the 1980s.
• Third Floor: Focuses on mineral resources, displaying key Vietnamese minerals such as crude oil, iron, copper, gold, zinc, and coal. Notably, crude oil samples extracted from Vietnam’s southern offshore fields in the 1980s hold significant importance for the nation’s energy sector.

Shelves of rocks, minerals, and fossils unveil a world millions of years old (Source: Bảo tàng Địa chất - Geological Museum of Vietnam)

The museum features an early modern Vietnamese architectural style (Source: Bảo tàng Địa chất - Geological Museum of Vietnam)

Important notes for visitors:

• Some exhibition rooms on the second and third floors are open only on special occasions or by schedule.
• Visitors should avoid touching specimens to preserve their condition.
• Photography may be restricted in certain areas so it’s advisable to ask for permission first.
• A minimum of one hour is recommended for a full museum tour.
• Nearby famous attractions include Saigon Zoo, Independence Palace, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office.

A variety of different fossils are displayed at the museum (Source: Bảo tàng Địa chất - Geological Museum of Vietnam)

With so many stories waiting to be uncovered, visiting a museum in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the must-do activities for anyone eager to connect with Vietnam’s past and culture. Each museum offers a unique perspective, making them essential stops on your journey through this vibrant metropolis.

For more travel inspiration, hidden gems, and must-visit attractions, check out Vietnam Airlines curated guides. Let us help you plan the perfect itinerary and make the most of your time in Vietnam!