1. Location & History
Saigon Central Post Office is located at 2 Cong Xa Paris Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, adjacent to the renowned Notre Dame Cathedral. This magnificent building dates back to the late 19th century and is a testament to the city's rich history during the French colonial era. Designed by Gustave Eiffel, the talented architect behind the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the post office showcases a harmonious blend of Gothic, Renaissance, and French colonial architectural styles. The construction of the Saigon Central Post Office was completed in 1891.
On January 13th, 1863, the post office was first opened to the locals, and the post office issued its first stamp. In 1864, Saigon Central Post Office began to be more famous in the Southern areas. From 1886 to 1891, the building was rebuilt by French architect Villedieu, and that is the Saigon post office we see today.
The construction of the Saigon Central Post Office was completed in 1891.
2. Saigon Central Post Office Opening Hours
The post office operates from Monday to Saturday, opening its doors from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm on weekdays and from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm on weekends. It is closed on Sundays and public holidays. The extended opening hours are particularly beneficial for tourists who may have limited time during their visit to Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you're sending postcards to loved ones back home or simply exploring the architectural marvel of the building, the flexible schedule accommodates various activities and interests.
To make the most of your visit, it is advisable to arrive during weekdays when the crowds are usually smaller, allowing you to explore the post office at a more leisurely pace.
3. Where is Saigon Central Post Office? How to get there?
Saigon Central Post Office is conveniently located in District 1, the city's bustling central area, near many other attractions such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Independence Palace, the War Remnants Museum, and the Ben Thanh Market. There are several transportation options available to reach this iconic destination:
-
By bus: You can take bus numbers 03, 04, 18, 19, 36, or 152 and get off at Cong Xa Paris bus stop4.
-
By taxi: You can take a taxi from anywhere in the city and ask the driver to take you to Saigon central post office or Bưu điện Trung tâm Sài Gòn in Vietnamese.
-
By motorbike: You can rent a motorbike from many places in the city and follow the directions to District 1 and Paris Commune Street.
-
By walking: If you are staying near the city center, you can also walk to the post office. It is about 1 km from Ben Thanh Market and 500 m from Independence Palace.
4. Saigon Post Office's structure and architecture
The structure of the building is a combination of Western and Asian building styles. The exterior of the post office features a vibrant yellow façade, adorned with ornate decorations and intricate details. When coming to the main entrance, there is a giant clock hanging above the gate with the years of construction “1886 1891” below. Between the old green windows, there are names of French inventors who devoted to telegram and electricity.
Saigon Post Office's structure and architecture
When you come into this place, you can see the dome roof covering the whole length of the Post Office. The pillars are propping up the front dome, and the halls’ domes are supported by rows of pillars on the two sides. Above the international telephone booths near the entrance, you can see two large maps; one shows the telecom system of Cambodia and Vietnam in 1936, and the other describes Saigon and its surroundings in 18922.
On the left and right wings, two staircases lead to the souvenir shops along the halls. On the wall at the end of the central hall, there is a portrait of Ho Chi Minh President, the most famous and greatest person in Vietnam.
5. What to do at Saigon Center Post Office?
Things to do in Saigon Center Post Office
When visiting the Saigon Central Post Office, there are several activities and things to do that will enrich your experience:
-
Mail a postcard or a letter: The Saigon Central Post Office is still a fully functioning post office, so take the opportunity to send postcards or letters to your loved ones. You can buy some postcards with iconic buildings of Ho Chi Minh City, such as Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, etc. from the gift shop in the center. It's a nostalgic experience that adds a personal touch to your correspondence.
-
Meet the last public letter writer: When coming to the post office, you may see an older man sitting at one of the writing tables in the central hall. He is Duong Van Ngo. He is a translator and a public letter writer since he was 18. Although he has retired from his job, he often goes walking here and helps the people write letters in English and French.
-
Admire the architecture and decoration: The post office is a beautiful example of colonial architecture and design. You can admire the details of the exterior and interior, such as the clock, the windows, the maps, the ceiling, the floor, and the paintings. You can also take some photos with the post office as a backdrop.
-
Buy some souvenirs: Besides postcards and stamps, you can also buy some souvenirs from the shops inside or outside the post office. You can find some handicrafts, books, magnets, keychains, T-shirts, and other items with Vietnam-themed. It's a great place to find unique souvenirs to remember your trip to Saigon.
-
Enjoy the Atmosphere: The post office is a bustling place with a lively atmosphere. Sit on one of the benches, observe the people coming and going, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this historic landmark.
>>> Read more: Ho Chi Minh Travel Guide
Top Museum in Ho Chi Minh
In conclusion, Saigon Central Post Office is a must-visit destination for its historical significance, architectural splendor, and cultural charm. It offers a glimpse into the city's past while providing an opportunity to engage with its present-day postal services. Explore its timeless beauty, learn about its fascinating history, and embrace the cultural heritage that resonates within this iconic post office.
