Top 5 Most Famous Catholic Churches in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City)
Ho Chi Minh City is not only Vietnam’s economic and cultural hub but also home to many historic and artistically stunning religious landmarks. Among them, the Catholic churches stand out with their timeless architecture, solemn atmosphere, and appeal to both pilgrims and tourists. Here are the Top 5 most iconic Catholic churches in Saigon that you should definitely visit to experience the city’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
1. Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica
(Officially: Basilica of Our Lady of The Immaculate Conception)
The undisputed symbol of Saigon, Notre-Dame Basilica sits proudly in the heart of District 1, facing the historic Central Post Office. Built entirely with materials imported from France (red bricks, stained glass, steel), this Romanesque-byzantine masterpiece with Gothic touches was completed in 1880. Its twin bell towers rise nearly 58 meters high, dominating the city skyline.
In front of the church stands the famous statue of Our Lady of Peace — a favorite spot where locals come to offer flowers and pray. In 1959, the Vatican elevated it to the status of a minor basilica, making it the cathedral of the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City.
Address: 01 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé Ward, District 1
2. Tân Định Church (The Pink Church)
(Officially: Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus)
Nicknamed “The Pink Church,” Tân Định is easily the most Instagram-famous church in Vietnam thanks to its striking bubblegum-pink façade. Built between 1870 and 1876, it was repainted in vibrant pink (darker outside, pastel inside) in 1957. The architecture beautifully blends Gothic, Romanesque, and Baroque elements, with a tall pointed tower topped by a bronze cross and five large French-made bells inside.
It’s a must-visit for anyone who loves romantic, fairytale-like architecture and is one of the city’s top check-in spots.
Address: 289 Hai Bà Trưng, Ward 8, District 3
3. Huyện Sỹ Church
(Officially: Saint Philip the Apostle Church – also known as Chợ Đũi Church)
One of Saigon’s most elegant and historic churches, Huyện Sỹ was built between 1902 and 1905 in Neo-Gothic style using limestone. It was funded entirely by a wealthy and devout landowner, Mr. Lê Phát Đạt (known as “Huyện Sỹ”), which is how the church got its popular name.
Highlights include the tall bell tower housing four large French bells from 1905, a statue of Vietnamese Martyrs in front, and the tombs of Huyện Sỹ and his wife beneath the altar of Our Lady.
Address: 01 Tôn Thất Tùng (corner of Nguyễn Trãi), District 1
4. Cha Tam Church
(Officially: Saint Francis Xavier Church)
Tucked away in the heart of Chợ Lớn’s Chinatown, Cha Tam Church is a fascinating East-meets-West gem. Built from 1900 to 1902 primarily for the Chinese Catholic community, it combines traditional curved Asian tiled roofs with European Gothic towers. The church is affectionately named after Father Jean-Baptiste Tamassia, the French priest who built and served here for decades.
It’s also historically significant — President Ngô Đình Diệm prayed here shortly before his death in 1963.
Address: 25 Hoc Lạc Street, Ward 14, District 5
5. Chợ Quán Church
(Officially: Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus)
Chợ Quán is one of the oldest Catholic parishes in southern Vietnam, established as early as 1722 — making it the oldest parish in the Archdiocese of Ho Chi Minh City. The current Gothic-style building, with its pointed arches and intricate details, has been rebuilt and renovated several times over the centuries.
Despite its location in busy District 5, the church retains a peaceful, reverent atmosphere that reflects its long and sacred history.
Address: 120 Trần Bình Trọng, Ward 5, District 5
These Catholic churches are far more than places of worship — they are living pieces of Saigon’s history, architecture, and soul. Whether you’re here for faith, photography, or simply curiosity, take some time to visit these sacred landmarks and feel the blend of spirituality and timeless beauty in the middle of a modern metropolis.
