Independence Palace, also called Reunification Palace, is where the Vietnam War ended on 30 April 1975 as tanks rolled through the main gate. Today it opens as a museum, its 1960s–1970s interiors preserved almost exactly as they were.
Areas worth seeing
- The reception hall and cabinet meeting rooms on the upper floors.
- The presidential office and formal receiving rooms of the era.
- The command bunker with war maps, a telecommunications room and radio gear.
- The front lawn where historic tanks are displayed.
Address and practical information
- Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1.
- Hours: generally open mornings and afternoons daily; check before you go.
- Tickets: an entrance fee applies; carry some cash.
Tips for your visit
Renting an audio guide or joining a guided tour helps make sense of the history. The palace sits close to Notre-Dame Cathedral and the central park, so it combines well into a half-day.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Tickets can usually be bought at the counter; on weekends or in peak season, arrive early to avoid queues.
How long should I spend?
About 1 to 1.5 hours to cover the floors and the command bunker.