Instagrammable Vietnam - The central post office Ho Chi Minh city

The Central Post Office Ho Chi Minh city

This stunning building forms the perfect backdrop for some great pictures on Instagram. Impress your friends! It is Vietnam's largest post office and oldest colonial structure.

It was constructed in between 1886 and 1891, when Vietnam was part of French Indochina in the late 19th century and is awash with Gothic, Renaissance and French influences.

It was designed by Alfred Foulhoux, Quite often people think it was designed by Gustave Eiffel, however, that is not completely true.

Some more history:

After successfully invading Saigon in 1863, the French started establishing a communication system by constructing Saigon Telegraph-wire Department, which was the precursor of Saigon Central Post Office. The designer of this original building was Gustave Eiffel, who was the architect of some iconic constructions including the Eiffel Tower in Paris.  After it needed to be expanded, Alfred Foulhoux got involved in the re-design. Still doesn't take away any of its beauty for sure!

The Inside of the Central Post Office Ho Chi Minh city:

The inside of the central post office is just as impressive. The whole post office is covered by a dome roof with arches, supported by a row of pillars on the two sides. On both sides of the post office’s walls, there are two large meticulously drawn maps, one depicts Saigon and its neighborhoods in 1892, while the other illustrates the network of telegraph lines across Vietnam and Cambodia in 1936. There a rows of wooden chairs where you can sit yourself down to admire its beauty.

Where to find it:

No 2, Cong Xa Paris Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City 

Its free to visit and here are its Opening hours: 

• From Monday to Friday: 7 am - 5 pm

• Saturday: 7 am - 6 pm

• Sunday: 8 am - 6 pm

If you need assistance with your travel to Vietnam with professionals who can help you make the most of your stay, please contact the Travel Experts in Vietnam.

For more information - A Guide to Sai Gon Central Post Office: History and Highlights - Vibrant Ho Chi Minh City: The Official Website of Ho Chi Minh City Tourism (visithcmc.vn)