Saigon Opera House: A Spectacular Venue for Theatrical Arts

Overview

Saigon Opera House, also known as the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City, stands as a magnificent symbol of culture in Ho Chi Minh City. With a seating capacity of 500, this historic venue invites visitors to immerse themselves in its elegant French colonial architecture, designed by Eugene Ferret in 1898. While no official tours are available, the Opera House comes to life during theatrical shows, including the renowned AO Show Saigon, which beautifully blends traditional Vietnamese music and dance with breathtaking acrobatics. With its grand interior adorned with intricate stone carvings, balustrades, and stunning chandeliers, the Opera House is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to experience the vibrancy of Vietnamese cultural expressions. Enjoy an exhilarating performance while snacking on local delicacies, making your visit unforgettable.

Photo of Saigon Opera House
Photo of Saigon Opera House
Opening hours
  • Sunday 09:00 - 17:00
  • Monday 09:00 - 17:00
  • Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00
  • Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00
  • Thursday 09:00 - 17:00
  • Friday 09:00 - 17:00
  • Saturday 09:00 - 17:00

Open 24/7

Contact Info
  • Address07 Công trường Lam Sơn, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh 710212, Vietnam

Reviews

Nguyen Hoang
Vietnam
5
★★★★★\n\nA magical night at the Saigon Opera House! I attended the Berlin in Light event here, and it was absolutely mesmerizing. The stunning architecture of the opera house, with its grand French colonial design, provided the perfect backdrop for an evening of jazz and artistic brilliance.\n\nThe acoustics were fantastic, making every note feel rich and immersive. The ambiance was elegant yet welcoming, and the staff were professional and cheerful. If you're in Ho Chi Minh City and appreciate the arts, this is definitely a must-visit venue. I can't wait to return for another unforgettable performance!
Nguyen Thi Mai
Vietnam
5
The Ho Chi Minh City Opera House is an architectural gem located in the heart of District 1, showcasing a classic French style that brings elegance and history to bustling Saigon. Stepping into this area feels like a journey back in time to when Saigon was known as the "Pearl of the Far East."\n\nThe opera house serves as a venue for impressive performances such as operas, plays, and ballets, and has become a popular tourist attraction. Inside, every detail is meticulously crafted—from the arches to the decorative columns, adding a nostalgic and luxurious feel.\n\nFor the people of Saigon, the opera house is more than a mere building; it’s a cultural symbol that evokes pride each time they pass by. Even if you only admire it from the outside, you'll appreciate its old-world charm and the tranquility it offers amidst the city's hustle and bustle.
Hanh Le
Vietnam
4
The venue is quite charming. The staff is really lovely and helpful. They guide you to your seats and even offer complimentary tea as a refreshment before the start of the show. It's a great size because it feels intimate, allowing you to see the performances quite well. I think it's worth a visit. I heard it was recently renovated and it does show some signs of wear, but overall, it still feels quite nice.
Emi Tanaka
Japan
4
I saw the AO show, a bamboo basket acrobatic performance. It wonderfully blends the modern and traditional aspects of Saigon, with moments of humor. I enjoyed the peach lemongrass tea served as refreshment. Do note that the venue can be quite cold, so prepare with long sleeves. It's advisable to purchase tickets in advance. Photography is not allowed during the show, but they will introduce the building briefly one hour before the show starts. I visited on Christmas Day 2024.
Ling Wei
Vietnam
5
I recently enjoyed the AO Show (booking through Klook) at the stunning Saigon Opera House, whose gorgeous French-inspired exterior is a sight to behold. It truly sets the stage for the incredible experience that awaits inside!\n\nBefore the show, guests are welcomed with a complimentary drink, a nice touch for the evening. The performance beautifully integrates bamboo, highlighting its importance in Vietnamese culture and daily life. The performers are exceptionally talented, executing stunning acrobatics along with singing and playing various instruments. Their creativity shines as they transform everyday items into captivating elements of the show.\n\nOne highlight is that after the performance, you can take photos with the performers, creating a lovely memento of the experience.\n\nI highly recommend this show to anyone visiting Vietnam. It’s the perfect blend of artistry, culture, and entertainment that you won't want to miss!