Museums and galleries Saigon

Saigon may be best known as Vietnam’s commercial centre, but it also boasts its fair share of cultural sights and attractions. Museums allow visitors to gain greater insight into a country or city’s past. Saigon’s museums reveal the turbulent times the city has experienced throughout its history.

The Museum of Vietnamese History is the best place to start. The museum houses an interesting collection of items which chart 2000 years of Vietnamese history.

The War Remnants Museum has changed its name from ‘Museum of American War Crimes’ to avoid offending visitors from the US. The display of explicit photos and instruments of torture illustrates the brutal and gruesome nature of the war.

There are a number of impressive art galleries in Saigon, which also allow visitors to delve deeper into the local culture and view popular art styles.

Lac Hong Gallery is located within the Fine Arts Museum and houses an impressive collection of abstract pieces. Galerie Lotus is teeming with innovative works by some of Vietnam’s best known artists.

Gallery Quynh not only showcases contemporary artworks, but serves as a centre for community-based educational programmes.

Breathing Eyes Photo Gallery captures the best photographic works of Vietnam and presents them in an inspiring exhibition.