Reunification Palace (Independence Palace)

The Basics

Vietnam has a long history of conflict and visiting the Reunification Palace is essential for understanding of the modern-day country. As such, it’s a staple of most sightseeing tours of the city. There, visit the war-command room, the F5E fighter plane that bombed the building in 1975, and the tank that rolled through the gates as Saigon fell. For a comprehensive overview of the war, combine a city tour and the Reunification Palace with a guided visit to the nearby Cu Chi Tunnels.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Reunification Palace is a must-visit for history buffs and first time visitors.

• The structure is a working government building, but it’s also a museum of the historical events that happened there.

• Rooms in the labyrinthine basement screen videos about the palace history in several languages.

• Visitors may be asked to pass through a security check before entering the building.

• Photography is allowed inside the palace.

• The palace is accessible for wheelchair users, with the exception of the rooftop terrace.

How to Get There

Reunification Palace is situated in the heart of District 1, a short walk from Ben Thanh market. Follow Le Loi away from the market circle and turn left on Nam Ky Khoi Nghia to arrive. Alternatively, visit as part of a guided city tour.

When to Get There

Reunification Palace is open to the public daily, as long as there are no official receptions or events taking place. Check in advance to avoid disappointment on the day and visit early to beat the crowds.

Designed for a President

The Reunification Palace was originally redesigned as the presidential palace for Ngo Dingh, the president of South Vietnam, after his own air force bombed his old palace. He was quite unpopular. The building has a bomb shelter in the basement, a movie theater, game room, disco, and rooftop helipad. Unfortunately, the president never moved in, as he was killed by his own troops three years before it was completed.

Is the Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City worth visiting?

Yes, the Independence Palace, also known as the Reunification Palace, is worth visiting. It holds significant historical and cultural importance, symbolizing Vietnam's struggle for independence and reunification. The palace offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam's recent history, particularly the events leading up to the end of the Vietnam War.

Is there a dress code for Independence Palace in Ho Chi Minh City?

While there isn't a strict dress code at Ho Chi Minh City’s Reunification Palace, it's advisable to dress modestly and respectfully when visiting. Vietnam has a fairly conservative culture—wear clothing that covers the shoulders and knees out of respect for the site's historical significance and the culture at large.

How much does it cost to go to the Reunification Palace?

The entrance fee to Ho Chi Minh City’s Reunification Palace varies depending on your nationality. For foreign tourists, the fee is typically around 40,000 VND or 50,000 VND per person. However, it is always a good idea to check for the most current admission prices before your visit.

How much time should I allocate for a visit to the Reunification Palace?

You should allocate at least 1 to 2 hours to a visit to Ho Chi Minh City’s Reunification Palace to thoroughly explore its various rooms, exhibitions, and outdoor areas. The amount of time you wish to spend will vary depending on your interest in history, architecture, and the Vietnam War.

What’s inside the Reunification Palace?

Inside the Reunification Palace, visitors can explore a series of chambers that the South Vietnamese government once used; highlights include presidential quarters, conference rooms, and a command bunker. Exhibits showcasing historical artifacts and photographs related to Vietnam's modern history are also on display, and the grounds are worth exploring.

What’s the history of the Reunification Palace?

The French built Norodom Palace in 1868; after it was heavily bombed in 1962, Ngo Dinh Diem ordered that a new one be built—today’s Reunification Palace. In 1975, two North Vietnamese army tanks crashed through the walls of the palace, the seat of South Vietnam’s government, which essentially ended the Vietnam War and reunified the country.