Saigon Opera House (Opéra de Saïgon)

The Basics

The Saigon Opera House is an easy walk from other colonial-era masterpieces, including the Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Basilica. As a landmark building, it’s a regular stop on Ho Chi Minh City tours. The only way to experience the interior is to buy tickets for a performance. Some Saigon Opera House ticket packages include round-trip transfers.

Cultural performances, such as the A O Show and Teh Dar, typically blend acrobatics, dance, drama, and tribal or folk elements. The Ho Chi Minh City Ballet and Symphony Orchestra offers classical concerts, opera, ballet, modern dance, and more.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Cultural shows at the Saigon Opera House are a must for fans of acrobatics.

• Architecture buffs should sign up for the short theater tours before each performance.

• Ticket prices vary according to not only the show but also seat class.

How to Get There

An easy walk from other District 1 attractions, including the Central Post Office and Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Saigon Opera House sits on Lam Son Square. The 49 bus stops here, as do some hop-on hop-off bus sightseeing tours. The Grab app takes the strain out of negotiating with motorbike and 4-wheeled taxi drivers in Ho Chi Minh City.

When to Get There

As with other Vietnam tourist attractions, the Saigon Opera House gets insanely busy over the Vietnamese New Year (Tet) holidays. Evening is the best time to appreciate the spectacular 19th-century facade, which is dressed up in lights, and, of course, to enjoy a performance. Book ahead of time when reserving show tickets for weekends.

The Colorful Past of Saigon Opera House

Designed by French architects in the Belle Epoque style, the Saigon Opera House opened to the public in 1900 under the name of Theatre de Saigon. Theater companies from both France and Vietnam performed. After being damaged during World War II, it served variously as a theater, a refuge for French citizens, and home to part of the government of South Vietnam.

Are there guided tours available of the Saigon Opera House?

The short answer is no; guided tours are not available at the Saigon Opera House, although bite-sized guided tours are sometimes offered before performances. The opera house is a common stop on city tours, though tour groups don’t venture inside. The exterior, of course, is worth appreciating.

What is the history behind the Saigon Opera House?

The Saigon Opera House, aka Ho Chi Minh City Theater, was built in 1897. It’s an example of French colonial architecture and one of District 1's finest landmarks. The theater houses the Ho Chi Minh City Ballet and Symphony Orchestra and runs cultural shows like A O and Teh Dar.

Is there a dress code for Saigon Opera House?

No, there is not a strict dress code enforced at the Saigon Opera House. Still, show attendees are encouraged to dress in smart casual or semi-formal attire for performances at this historic facility. Not wearing casual clothing is recommended out of respect for the venue, culture, and occasion.

How do I purchase tickets to a show at the Saigon Opera House?

The Saigon Opera House doesn’t run its own ticketing facility and website; instead, its production houses do. For tickets to A O, the popular, long-running evening show at the opera house, visit Lune Production's website. You can also check out information from Ho Chi Minh City Ballet and Symphony Orchestra.

How do I get to the Saigon Opera House using public transportation?

The Saigon Opera House is centrally located in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1. Visitors can take a taxi—Vinasun and Mai Linh are reputable options—utilize Grab (a ridesharing service), or drive, bike, or hail a xe om (motorbike taxi). The opera house is within walking distance of many city-center hotels.

Do you need a ticket to enter the Saigon Opera House?

Yes, visitors typically need a ticket to enter the Saigon Opera House—it’s rarely open during non-performance or rehearsal hours. Technically, you could peek inside before a performance, but you won’t get too far. Check the schedule and inquire about specific restrictions or guided tour opportunities at the venue.