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Castles & palaces

Citadel of Saigon (1790)

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Citadel of Saigon (1790)

Citadel of Saigon

The Citadel of Saigon was a star-shaped fortress established in 1790 on the site of old Saigon. While the original structure was demolished by French forces, the site remains a point of historical interest for those studying the military architecture and the political upheavals of the region, including the rebellion of 1833.

Getting There

The site is located within the central districts of Ho Chi Minh City. From the city center, it is accessible via taxi or ride-hailing apps. The journey typically takes 10 to 20 minutes depending on the current traffic conditions.

Visit Duration

Because the original fortress no longer stands in its entirety, visitors generally spend 30 to 60 minutes exploring the area and reviewing the historical context of the site.

When to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon is recommended to avoid the midday heat. Like most central locations in the city, the surrounding areas can become crowded during peak commuting hours and public holidays.

Nearby Attractions

The location is situated close to several other points of interest, making it easy to combine with other visits:

  • Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens: 0.4km
  • Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History: 0.7km
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda: 0.7km
  • Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica: 0.8km

Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

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Stays near Citadel of Saigon (1790)

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Citadel of Saigon (1790) Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Ho Chi Minh City 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Ho Chi Minh City grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Ho Chi Minh City 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Ho Chi Minh City grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

Zoos & aquariums

Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens

A zoo and botanical garden in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, home to a wide range of mammals, birds, and reptiles as well as rare orchids. It sits close to the History Museum, making it easy to visit both in one trip.

0.4 km away
Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History

Museums & galleries

Ho Chi Minh City Museum of History

A history museum in Ho Chi Minh City that displays Vietnamese artifacts spanning from prehistoric times to the modern era. It's a great place to explore Vietnam's history through relics from many different periods in one place.

0.7 km away
Jade Emperor Pagoda

Temples & religious sites

Jade Emperor Pagoda

A temple in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City blending Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism, built by Chinese immigrant merchants. It's also well known as a site visited by U.S. President Obama in 2016.

0.7 km away
Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

Temples & religious sites

Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica

The Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral is a Catholic cathedral in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, built between 1863 and 1880 during the French colonial period. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it makes a pleasant stop while strolling through downtown.

0.8 km away
Paris Commune Square

Parks & gardens

Paris Commune Square

Paris Commune Square is a small plaza and roundabout surrounding Notre Dame Cathedral in Ho Chi Minh City. Marking the start of Dong Khoi Street, it's a great spot to see both the cathedral and the Central Post Office.

0.8 km away
Saigon Opera House

Culture & venues

Saigon Opera House

This theater preserves its French colonial architecture intact and is also well known as the Saigon Opera House. It's worth a stop while strolling through downtown Ho Chi Minh City to admire its exotic facade.

1.1 km away