【Nhà hát Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh】Saigon Opera House, Vietnam
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If you’re planning a night out in Ho Chi Minh City, let me suggest you to one of the most elegant, timeless experiences in town — the Saigon Opera House.
My partner and I saw the iconic A O Show here — and I still think about how flawless and emotionally charged the performance was.
From the dramatic French architecture to the incredible artistic performance, it’s a chef’s kiss for travelers who want to dive a little deeper into Vietnam’s history.
brief history
The Saigon Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, is one of the city’s most iconic remnants of French colonial rule.
It was commissioned in 1898 by French architect Eugène Ferret in the “flamboyant” architectural style popular during France’s Third Republic. Now, flamboyant doesn’t just mean dramatic — in this context, it refers to an elaborately decorative Gothic Revival style, rich with curves, carvings, and flair. Think of it as France’s theatrical response to the tropics.
Inspired by Paris’s Petit Palais, the Opera House features a façade adorned with stone-carved angels, Greek goddesses, and intricate motifs, all of which were imported directly from France.
Inside, you’ll find granite floors, crystal chandeliers, and an auditorium that holds 468 velvet-lined seats, specially designed for optimal acoustics — echo-free and soundproofed from the chaos outside.
☝🏼 FUN FACT
The building is constructed two meters above street level, with double doors to block out outside traffic noise — pretty advanced thinking for the 1890s.
But it hasn’t always been about the arts…
From 1956 to 1967, the building actually housed South Vietnam’s National Assembly, serving as the seat of both the Lower and Upper Houses. In 1975, it was temporarily used by the People’s Congress of Deputies of the Republic of South Vietnam. It wasn’t until 1976 that the structure returned to its original purpose as a theater.
To celebrate its 100th birthday, the façade was restored in 1998, reviving its former glory for a new generation of cultural enthusiasts.
what to wear
There’s no strict dress code, but I recommend smart casual — stylish, breathable, and comfy enough for the warm Saigon evenings.
💡 OUTFIT IDEAS
FOR WOMEN
Flowy linen dresses, light skirts, or shorts for bottoms. Flowy blouses or cooling fabrics that let your skin breathe in the heat
FOR MEN
Breathable button-ups or polos like linen, silk, or cotton
🧣 Heads up — it can get surprisingly chilly inside with the AC blasting. I brought a flannel to throw over my tank top and flowy skirt, and I was so glad I brought that. A light scarf or cardigan goes a long way here.
🧳 Psst — wondering how to pack light for your trip? I gotchu in my Vietnam Packing List. You’re welcome! 😉
Saigon Opera House ticket options
Okay, real talk — here are your 3 main options to buy tickets for the Opera House:
At the box office
A bit old school and a bit risky. Tickets can sell out, and you might not get the seat you want
Official website
More show options, but no perks, no refunds, and surprisingly more expensive. You can add extras (like guided tours) for an additional charge.
Booking platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide (our go-to for tickets, tours, and much more!)
| Platform | Pricing | Perks | Refund Policy | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klook | $ | Cheapest, quick booking | Cancel up to 7 days prior | Book on Klook |
| GetYourGuide | $$ | Reserve now, pay later | Cancel up to 24 hrs before | Book on GetYourGuide |
| Lune Production | $$$ | More show options available | No refunds | Official Site |
🎟️ BUYER TIP
Klook often wins on price + flexibility, but compare all the options before you book — depending on the show, one may have better perks or times.
Saigon Opera House schedule
Showtimes vary by season, but most performances take place in the evening.
Some of the most popular shows include:
A O Show – Vietnamese bamboo circus meets contemporary dance (we LOVED this one)
Classical music concerts
Ballet + traditional performances
📆 Want to see what’s playing now?
Check the official schedule here → Go to “Shows & Tickets” and select “Ho Chi Minh City”
getting there
There are several different ways to get there, here’s some options:
WALK
If you’re staying nearby like us, just walk over like we did. The city is walkable — just pre-download your map in case you lose signal.
GRAB
Vietnam’s version of Uber. Super reliable and cheap! Good for coming from afar.
BUS STOPS NEARBY
There are several different bus stops around the area including, Park Hyatt Saigon, Vincom Đồng Khởi, Nhà Hát Thành Phố, which walking over to Saigon Opera House will only take a few minutes
METRO
Get off at “Nhà Ga Ngầm Nhà Hát Thành Phố” metro exit
know before you go!
ADMISSION
Book online via Klook, GetYourGuide, or the official site
DRESS CODE
Smart casual
LOCATION ETIQUETTE
No phones during the show. Kids under 5 are not allowed.
PAYMENT
Credit cards accepted
PERFECT FOR
Couples. Art lovers. Culture buffs
DURATION
1 - 2 hours
final thoughts
Watching the A O Show at the Saigon Opera House was such a perfect date night. It was funny, poetic, and honestly… kind of mind-blowing. I’m still thinking about how seamlessly it blended Vietnamese tradition, physical theater, and humor.
We got there a bit early and were welcomed with complimentary drinks — a sweet touch! We chilled on the patio, soaking in the breeze before heading inside. After a long, sweaty day exploring Saigon, it was the reset we didn’t know we needed.
We sat in the “Wow” section on the second floor, and even from up there, the view and sound were 🔥. If you wear glasses, definitely bring them — it’ll help with catching all the details.
Only downside? A few phones went off during the performance 😒 but that’s on the audience, not the show.
💘 Would I recommend it?
Absolutely. It’s romantic, cultural, and completely different from your usual night out.
👉🏼 Ready to book? Grab your tickets on Klook here!
🎒 Planning your Vietnam trip? Check out my Travel Resources page — it’s packed with tools and tips to help you travel smarter, lighter, and better.
plan your visit
VISIT
HOURS
Monday - Sunday
9:00 AM - 4:30 PM
LOCATION
07 Công trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 710212, Vietnam
check out my recent travel vlog!
DISCOVER MORE
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Step inside one of Vietnam’s most stunning landmarks.
From jaw-dropping architecture to the mesmerizing A O Show, the Saigon Opera House blends French-Vietnamese charm, history, and romance for a night you won’t forget.