You don’t need to fly thousands of miles away to experience Europe. In Southeast Asia, specifically in Vietnam, you’ll find many French-inspired architecture and attractions that will remind you of dreamy Europe. Here are some of them!
Sun World Ba Na Hills
This stunning fantasy theme park, perched on top of the Truong Son Mountains, is one of the most iconic French-inspired destinations in Vietnam. Sun World Ba Na Hills has numerous attractions featuring romantic and classical France, like the French Village, Debay Wine Cellar, and the Le Jardin D’Amour Gardens. It’s a must-visit destination that you can’t miss in Da Nang!
Address: Tuyến cáp treo lên Bà Nà Hills, Hoà Ninh, Hòa Vang, Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
Hanoi Opera House
Influenced by Paris, France’s Opera Palais Garnier, the Hanoi Opera House is a symbolic representation of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Built by two French architects, this landmark is characterized by neoclassical architectural styles, with Baroque elements on the outside, and ornately decorated interiors. This historical theater in Hanoi hosts cultural shows and performances that tourists can watch!
Address: 1 Tràng Tiền, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Presidential Palace Hanoi
This strikingly yellow establishment found is Vietnam’s Presidential Palace. In its exterior, it’s evident that the elements are reminiscent of the Italian Renaissance style. While tourists are not allowed inside, one can stroll around the gardens and cottage for a small fee.
Address: No 2, Hung Vuong Street, Ngoc Ha Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi City, Vietnam
Hilton Hanoi Opera
Located in Hanoi’s French Quarter, this hotel is one of the most beautiful hotel buildings you can find in Vietnam. Though the facade features a colonial-era style, the hotel offers Vietnamese-style accommodations and luxurious amenities for the guests. It’s placed in a good location too, where dining and shopping malls are nearby. The Old Quarter filled with French architecture is also just a few minutes away.
Address: 1 P. Lê Thánh Tông, Phan Chu Trinh, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam
Saigon Central Post Office
Another establishment to see is the Saigon Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City. The post office was built by a French architect when Vietnam was still part of French Indochina around the 19th century. It’s a beautiful attraction that’s still functional at present. You may go inside to explore the charming postal office, and admire the dome structure, iron pillars, and intricate details that complete the establishment.
Address: 02 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé, Quận 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
Saigon Notre Dame
Just a few minutes away from Saigon Central Post Office is where the marvelous Notre Dame Cathedral stands. It was built by French colonialists and is located in downtown Ho Chi Minh. It’s worth noting that the materials used to build the cathedral came from France, such as its exterior’s red bricks. If you’ve been to Paris, you’ll notice the similarities it has with the original Notre Dame de Paris.
Address: 01 Cong xa Paris Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
National Museum of History
The National Museum of History in Vietnam is a place where you can discover the history of Saigon over the years. Separated into two buildings, the South building shows ancient Vietnam while the North focuses on French colonization. Visit the museum to know more about Vietnam’s rich heritage and admire its impressive architecture with a blend of French and Chinese design.
Address: 216 Đ. Trần Quang Khải, Tràng Tiền, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội 110000, Vietnam
Discover more of Vietnam’s beautiful sites, cultural attractions, and beach destinations by browsing through KKday’s listings!
