Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum boasts one of the most impressive collections of art in Southeast Asia. It's housed in a handsome colonial-era mansion that combines French and Chinese architecture. The building features light-filled galleries, beautiful tilework and colourful stained-glass windows.
Inside you can admire fine art from throughout the centuries, including ancient sculptures of Vishnu, carved wooden Buddhas and sandstone Shiva icons. Some of the oldest pieces date back to the 4th century or have been excavated from Vietnamese archaeological sites like Oc Eo. Other galleries display antique weapons, silk tapestries and woodcut paintings.
The second-floor galleries showcase works by contemporary Vietnamese artists, including Trinh Cung, Nguyen Gia Tri and Do Quang Em. More statues are dotted throughout the museum grounds and central courtyard. Visit the museum shop to browse books, prints and souvenirs inspired by Vietnamese art.
Getting there
Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum is located in the city centre, a 20-minute drive from Saigon Railway Station. Local buses stop nearby and parking for motorbikes is available. Tan Son Nhat International Airport is a 35-minute drive away.