A must-visit Southeast Asian country, bordering the South China Sea, Vietnam is famous for its beaches, rich history, Buddhist pagodas, diverse culture, and vibrant cities. Its 5-star hotels and luxury villas provide amazing accommodations to travelers who wish to visit its famous attractions. The capital of the country is Hanoi, which is characterized by its centuries-old architecture and French and Chinese influences. Another must-see city here is Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, where you’ll find many Vietnamese War history museums, the Củ Chi tunnels, and other French colonial landmarks. And if you’re looking for souvenirs, you surely would love to shop at the Bến Thành Market, where you can buy handicrafts, textiles, and áo dài, which is the national costume of the country. In case you’re into architecture and skyscrapers, continue reading to find out more about the famous buildings in Vietnam.
Travel advisory
To streamline visa applications, The Vietnamese government has recently launched new e-visa portals! There are two portals to access the process, the English version and another in Vietnamese (though both have language toggles to switch). The e-visa is valid for a maximum of 90 days.
1. Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum, Hanoi
The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, situated in Ba Dinh Square, Hanoi, is a revered monument that encapsulates the nation’s rich history and the legacy of Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader instrumental in securing Vietnam’s independence from colonial rule.
The historical building in Hanoi was inaugurated on August 29, 1975, five years after Ho Chi Minh’s passing in 1969. It was built to house his embalmed remains, allowing people from all over the world to pay their respects to “Uncle Ho.” The mausoleum’s austere, Soviet-inspired architecture is a testament to his enduring influence and the communist ideology that guided Vietnam’s struggle for independence. If you’re a fan of Brutalist architecture, I’m sure you’ll love it here!
Visiting the mausoleum is a must for history enthusiasts and those seeking to understand the pivotal role Ho Chi Minh played in shaping Vietnam’s destiny. It provides a unique opportunity to delve into Vietnam’s past and reflect on the nation’s journey toward sovereignty and self-determination.
Ho Chi Minh's Mausoleum
Address: 1 Hùng Vương, Điện Biên, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Website: Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum
Opening hours: 7am - 5pm (daily)
2. One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi is a captivating historical and architectural treasure with a story that dates back to the 11th century. Emperor Ly Thai Tong, inspired by a dream, ordered its construction to express his gratitude for the birth of a son. The pagoda was designed to resemble a lotus blossom emerging from a single stone pillar, representing purity, beauty, and the Buddhist faith. I’d suggest history lovers not miss this one on their visit!
Despite suffering damage during various conflicts, the pagoda has been meticulously reconstructed over the centuries, preserving its cultural significance and architectural splendor. Visiting One Pillar Pagoda is a must for anyone interested in Vietnamese history, culture, and spirituality. Its unique design and historical importance make it a symbol of Hanoi and a serene oasis amid the city’s bustling streets, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich heritage and the influence of Buddhism in the country.
One Pillar Pagoda
Address: P. Chùa Một Cột, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Opening hours: 7am - 6pm (daily)
3. Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon, Ho Chi Minh City
Another iconic structure built by the French colonists in Vietnam, the Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon is one of the most spectacular Catholic churches in the country. It was built in the latter part of the 1880s and, in 1962, was bestowed the title of ‘basilica’ by the Vatican. It is located in Ho Chi Minh, and is one of the things Vietnam is famous for. The church has a Neo-Romanesque style, which you can see with its red brick exteriors, beautiful stained glass windows, and the two bell towers that feature six bronze bells. It seems to me like the perfect place to visit with the family.
It also has a serene garden, where you can go if you want some peace. The best time to visit the church is every Sunday at 9:30 am, when you can also attend the mass.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon
Address: 01 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
4. Tran Quoc Pagoda, Hanoi
Poised on a small island near Hanoi Lake’s southern shore and surrounded by greenery, Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the most famous landmarks in Vietnam. It is also the oldest pagoda in the country and dates back to the 6th century, under the rule of Emperor Ly Nam De’s dynasty. It is a popular site visited by the royal family during the full moon and Tet festival. Many people also visit the attraction for its beauty and stunning architecture and also to pray for blessings and guidance.
Just like other religious sites, there is a strict dress code here. One cannot wear shorts, mini-skirts, tank tops, and the like.
Tran Quoc Pagoda
Address: Đ. Thanh Niên, Yên Phụ, Tây Hồ, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
Opening hours: 7:30am - 11:15 am, 1:30pm - 5pm (daily)
5. Bitexco Financial Tower, Ho Chi Minh City
The fourth-tallest building in Vietnam, Bitexco Financial Tower is a majestic skyscraper in Ho Chi Minh City’s historic district. The tower mimics a lotus flower in design, which is the national symbol of the country. It also has a distinct helipad design located on the 55th floor, instead of the typical location on the roof.
The helipad, along with the sky lounge, looks like a lotus pad reaching for the sun. You need to see it with your own eyes to be mesmerized by its wondrous structural design, so make sure you visit the tower before leaving town. The observation deck seems to me a great place to visit with the family.
Bitexco Financial Tower
Address: 2 Đ. Hải Triều, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
Website: Bitexco Financial Tower
6. Keangnam Landmark Tower 72, Hanoi
At a height of 350 meters (1,148.3 feet) height and boasting 72 stories, Keangnam Landmark Tower 72 is truly a sight to see. This mixed-use building is comprised of two twin towers, one of which is a hotel with 48 stories.
Along with the 5-star Intercontinental Hotel are commercial areas, offices, retail spaces, entertainment areas, clinics, and a lot more. Another fun fact about this hotel is that it hosted the Vietnam Landmark 72 Hanoi Vertical Run, where participants had to climb 1,914 steps to win.
Keangnam Landmark Tower 72
Address: Khu E6 Đô thị mới Cầu Giấy, Phạm Hùng, Mễ Trì, Nam Từ Liêm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
7. Independence Palace, Ho Chi Minh City
Another significant landmark in Vietnam, which was built in the location of the former Norodom Palace, Independence Palace, also called Reunification Palace, played an important role in history as the home of the President of South Vietnam, as well as his workplace throughout the Vietnam War.
Designed by Ngô Viết Thụ, the palace has five levels, which contain tunnels, a war room, a card-playing room, a casino, a telecommunications center, and a heliport on the rooftop. Additionally, the place is close to the Ben Thanh Night Market, where you can buy souvenirs, local handicrafts, and textiles, as well as taste the country’s cuisine.
Independence Palace
Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Website: Independence Palace
Opening hours: 8am - 4:30pm (daily)
8. Lotte Center HàNội
Built by Callison, an American Company, Lotte Center HàNội is one of the most renowned skyscrapers in Vietnam and has 65 floors. This building has a famous shopping center, where you’ll find a variety of items, from home fixtures and clothing, hypermarket items, cosmetics, and jewelry, as well as over 250 fashion and lifestyle brands. I’d suggest heading here with a few of your shopaholic friends.
Apart from being a retail paradise, the building also houses a hotel, gym, private apartments, and a spa. There are also a number of dining options to aid in your gastronomic journey through Vietnam. Another highlight of the structure is its world-class observation deck, where you’ll have a spectacular view of the city.
Lotte Center HàNội
Address: 54 Liễu Giai, Cống Vị, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 117000, Vietnam
Website: Lotte Center HàNội
Opening hours: 9:30am - 10pm (daily)
9. Sunwah Tower, Ho Chi Minh City
Nestled on Nguyen Hue Street, in the business center of the district, Sunwah Tower is another high-rise building that features 21 floors and 3 basements for parking purposes. It was created by the Los Angeles architect firm Archeon International in 1995 and, when it was built, it was the tallest building in the city.
The property is home to many major businesses in Ho Chi Minh City, including airlines, global bankers, foreign trade organizations, insurance companies, and many more.
Sunwah Tower
Address: Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Website: Sunwah Tower
10. St. Joseph's Cathedral, Hanoi
A majestic 19th-century Roman Catholic church, built in the Gothic-Revival architectural style, St. Joseph’s Cathedral, also known as the “Big Church”, is a major attraction in the city. It was one of the first structures built by the French colonists during their occupation and serves over four million Catholics in the country.
You will surely be mesmerized by its stunning exterior made of bricks and plaster and featuring a big clock that resembles the one in Notre Dame de Paris. The interior is also something you’ll surely not want to miss for its high domes and colorful stained glass windows. It seems to me like a peaceful spot where you can sit by yourself and enjoy a moment of tranquility.
St. Joseph's Cathedral
Address: 40 Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Opening hours: 8am - 11am, 2pm - 5pm (daily)
11. Saigon Times Square, Ho Chi Minh City
Located in Ho Chi Minh City’s central business district, between Dong Khoi Street and Nguyen Hue Boulevard, and in close proximity to the Saigon River, Saigon Times Square is a multi-purpose joint tower that has 40 levels and is one of the famous structures in Vietnam. It has a height of 164 meters (538.1 feet) and is one of the tallest buildings in the city.
You’ll find here one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, the Reverie Saigon. One of the unique features of the hotel is its glass facade that overlooks the city. It comes with 286 modern rooms, a world-class spa, excellent dining options, an outdoor pool, fitness facilities, and more. Additionally, the building is home to a shopping center, opulent serviced apartments, grade-A offices, among others.
Saigon Times Square
Address: Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
Website: Saigon Times Square
12. Hanoi Opera House, Hanoi
Built in 1911, the Hanoi Opera House is one of the most remarkable buildings in Vietnam and features Neo-classical French architectural design and Gothic motifs, which you can see in its ornate doors, domes, and pillars. It also features beautiful glass rooms and lovely balconies, as well as shuttered windows.
The opera is the biggest theater in the country and is proof of the cultural influences of French rule. Now, it serves as an entertainment venue, where you can watch plays, listen to classical music, see a live concert, and more.
Hanoi Opera House
Address: 1 Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Website: Hanoi Opera House
Explore Vietnam
A charming and fascinating country that features pristine beaches and famous architecture, Vietnam is one of the most visited countries in Southeast Asia. Its attractions are a mix of historical landmarks, religious sites, and natural wonders. Don’t forget to check out the best shopping malls and UNESCO sites while you’re in Vietnam. You surely won’t run out of things to do and see here. Before leaving the country, don’t forget to see these famous buildings in Vietnam. Read our list for an overview of what to expect.
Frequently asked questions about famous buildings in Vietnam
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