Reunification Palace

Introducing the Reunification Palace

The Reunification Palace, a four-story white building located in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, once served as the office of the French Governor-General of Vietnam. Today, it is used for government meetings and receptions of heads of state. It is located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. During the French Indochina era, the French built this palace as the office of the Governor-General of Cochinchina and the Governor-General of French Indochina, known as Norodom Palace. During the Vietnam War, the palace was destroyed by fire and rebuilt by the Republic of Vietnam. It later became the official residence of the President of Vietnam, known as Independence Palace. Today, the Reunification Palace is a popular tourist attraction in Ho Chi Minh City.

Climate and best time to travel

Suitable for all seasons

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

1-3 hours

Tickets

Adults: VND 40,000

VND20,000 for students

Children: VND 10,000

Attraction opening hours

07:30-12:00, 13:00-17:00

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Most Popular FAQs for Reunification Palace

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

The Reunification Palace, also known as the Independence Palace, was the site where the Vietnam War ended in 1975, when a North Vietnamese tank crashed through its gates, marking the fall of Saigon and the reunification of Vietnam. The palace served as the headquarters of the President of South Vietnam until the end of the war.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

The Reunification Palace is located at 135 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It is easily accessible by taxi, motorbike, or walking from major landmarks like Ben Thanh Market or the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The palace is open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the crowds.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance fee is typically around 40,000 VND for adults and 10,000 VND for children and students. Tickets can be bought at the entrance of the palace. Online booking is not typically required.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

No, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. You can purchase tickets at the entrance on the day of your visit.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

It typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the palace, including the rooms, gardens, and exhibits.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Presidential Office and Meeting Rooms.
• The General's War Room, where critical decisions during the Vietnam War were made.
• The rooftop helipad, where the final evacuation took place.
• The palace gardens, which are beautifully landscaped.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Vietnamese. Audio guides may also be available in multiple languages, including English, French, and Chinese.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• The rooftop helipad offers a great panoramic view of the city.
• The front gates and gardens make for excellent photos, with the palace as a backdrop.
• Inside, the Presidential Office offers interesting photo opportunities, with its vintage decor and historical significance.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with the gardens and exterior of the palace.
• Then, explore the Presidential Office and meeting rooms on the ground floor.
• Next, visit the basement to see the war rooms and the communications center.
• Finally, head to the rooftop for views of the city.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

The Reunification Palace does not offer night visits or light shows. It is open during the day, and visitors can take guided tours or self-explore.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The palace can get crowded, especially during weekends and holidays. The least crowded times are on weekdays in the morning, right when it opens.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

There are toilet facilities available inside the palace. However, there are no restaurants or cafes within the palace. Nearby shops and restaurants can cater to food and beverage needs.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

The palace is relatively accessible for elderly and children, with ramps and elevators available. However, some of the outdoor areas might be challenging for wheelchair users due to the uneven paths.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is typically required for ticket purchases. Credit cards or mobile payments may be accepted at nearby restaurants and cafes, but not at the entrance of the palace.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• “Ngon Restaurant” – a popular spot for traditional Vietnamese cuisine.
• “The Refinery” – a Western-style cafe and bistro, just a short walk from the palace.
• “Café Zoom” – a cozy cafe serving drinks and light bites, close to the palace.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

There are several vegetarian and vegan options available in nearby restaurants, such as "The Refinery" and "Ngon Restaurant." Halal food options may be limited, but available at select restaurants around District 1.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• “Renaissance Riverside Hotel” – a luxury hotel near the Reunification Palace.
• “Hotel Nikko Saigon” – a 5-star hotel within walking distance of the palace.
• “Saigon Prince Hotel” – another well-rated hotel close to major attractions in District 1.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Ben Thanh Market – a bustling market offering local products and souvenirs.
• Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica – an iconic French-colonial cathedral.
• War Remnants Museum – a museum detailing the history and impacts of the Vietnam War.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir shops around the palace offer items such as postcards, military-themed memorabilia, silk goods, and traditional Vietnamese handicrafts.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Taxis and motorbike taxis are readily available near the palace. Alternatively, you can explore the nearby areas on foot or take a short taxi ride to other attractions in District 1.