Hotel Majestic

Hotel Majestic Ho Chi Minh City: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Historical Sites Guide

Date: 15/06/2025

Introduction

Gracefully situated along the Saigon River in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, the Hotel Majestic Saigon is much more than a luxurious place to stay—it is an enduring symbol of the city’s rich, layered history. Since its establishment in 1925 by Hui Bon Hoa, a prominent Chinese-Vietnamese businessman, the Majestic has been an architectural marvel, blending French Colonial and Riviera styles with the vibrant spirit of Vietnam. Over nearly a century, it has evolved from a haven for colonial elites to a hub for journalists and dignitaries, and today stands as the first Vietnamese-managed five-star hotel in the country (Majestic Saigon Official; Saigoneer).

This guide provides everything you need to know for your visit—from practical details on visiting hours and booking, to a deep dive into its unique architecture and nearby historical sites. Whether you are drawn by the hotel’s storied past, its architectural beauty, or its prime riverfront location, this article will help you make the most of your experience at the Majestic and its vibrant surroundings (Authentik Travel; Vietnamreviewer).

Hotel Majestic building in District 1 Saigon with classic architecture under blue sky

Historic Hôtel Majestic in Saigon photograph from the 1920s

Luxurious lobby of Majestic Hotel Saigon with elegant decoration and seating

Breeze Sky Bar at Majestic Hotel Saigon with city skyline at sunset

Deluxe hotel room at Majestic Hotel Saigon Riverside with elegant interior

Majestic Hotel Saigon lobby interior with elegant decor and lighting

Historical Overview and Cultural Significance
Architectural and Artistic Heritage
Practical Visitor Information
Visiting Hours
Tickets and Booking
Accessibility
Travel Tips
Special Events and Guided Tours
Photographic Spots
Prime Location and Nearby Historical Sites
Day Trips and Excursions
Visitor FAQs
Conclusion and Recommendations
Sources

Historical Overview and Cultural Significance

Origins and Early Development (1925–1945)

Founded in 1925, the Hotel Majestic Saigon was conceived as a luxurious rival to the French-built Hotel Continental. Its original structure, located at the intersection of Rue de Catinat (now Đồng Khởi Street) and Quai de Belgique (now Tôn Đức Thắng Street), featured ornate balconies, arched windows, and an Art Deco façade, embodying the elegance of 1920s French Indochina. It quickly became the preferred residence for colonial officials and international visitors, establishing itself as Saigon’s most prestigious hotel (Majestic Saigon Official; Dream of a City; Wikipedia).

Wartime Years and Transformation (1945–1975)

During the ensuing decades, the Majestic played a pivotal role in the city’s social and political life. It became a gathering place for journalists, intelligence agents, and officials during the Indochina and Vietnam wars. Its rooftop bar, immortalized in Graham Greene’s The Quiet American, was a vantage point for observing a city in flux. After 1975, the hotel was nationalized, renamed Hoàn Mỹ (Perfection), and later Mekong Hotel, serving as a government guest house (French Wikipedia; Saigoneer).

Restoration and Vietnamese Management (1985–Present)

From 1985 onwards, significant renovations and expansions modernized the hotel while preserving its heritage. In 2007, the Majestic became the first Vietnamese-managed five-star hotel, symbolizing a new era for the nation’s hospitality industry. Today, it offers a blend of historic charm and modern luxury, celebrating its centenary with the motto “A Century Journey, Elevating Our Heritage” (Vietnamreviewer; Majestic Saigon Official).

Architectural and Artistic Heritage

The Majestic’s architecture is a striking example of French Colonial and Art Deco styles, featuring a cream-colored façade, ornate balconies, and grand ironwork. Inside, guests are greeted by marble floors, stained glass, period furnishings, and grand staircases that evoke the glamour and sophistication of a bygone era (Vietnam.travel). The hotel’s interior and exterior have been carefully preserved through various renovations, ensuring that its historic character endures.

River-facing rooms and the rooftop bars, M Bar and Breeze Sky Bar, offer panoramic views of the Saigon River and city skyline, making them popular spots for both guests and visitors (Ahoy Vietnam). The building is recognized as a heritage landmark and continues to host dignitaries, authors, and artists, solidifying its place in the city’s collective memory (Authentik Travel).

Practical Visitor Information

Visiting Hours

Hotel Public Areas: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily (lobby, lounge, restaurants, bars).
Hotel Guests: 24/7 access.

Tickets and Booking

General Access: No entrance fee for public areas (lobby, restaurants, bars).
Room & Suite Bookings: Available via the official website or trusted travel platforms.
Special Events: Some events may require advance booking or tickets; check with the hotel concierge.

Accessibility

Facilities: Ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms are available.
Staff Assistance: Trained staff are on hand to assist guests with special needs.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and beautiful lighting.
Dress Code: Smart casual in hotel venues; modest attire for religious sites.
Photography: Allowed in public areas, but please respect guests’ privacy.
Language: English is widely spoken in tourist areas, but basic Vietnamese greetings are appreciated.
Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND). ATMs and credit card facilities are available.

Special Events and Guided Tours

Cultural Events: The hotel often hosts art exhibitions and seasonal celebrations.
Guided Tours: Historical and architectural tours can be arranged in advance through the concierge.

Photographic Spots

Rooftop Bars: Panoramic river and city views, especially at sunset.
Grand Staircase: A classic spot for photos.
Facade on Dong Khoi Street: Perfect for capturing the hotel’s architectural elegance.

Prime Location and Nearby Historical Sites

Strategic Riverside Setting

Located at 01 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, the Majestic directly faces the Saigon River and sits at the nexus of Ho Chi Minh City’s commercial and cultural life (Majestic Saigon Official). The hotel’s central position makes it a perfect starting point for exploring the city’s most significant historical landmarks, all within walking distance or a short ride away.

Key Historical Sites Within Walking Distance

Saigon Opera House: 5-minute walk—a French colonial masterpiece hosting regular performances (Klook).
Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A lively pedestrian boulevard with shops, cafes, and public art.
Saigon Central Post Office: 12-minute walk—designed by Gustave Eiffel, featuring classic colonial architecture.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: Iconic red-brick cathedral, adjacent to the Post Office.
Ben Thanh Market: 15-minute walk or short taxi ride for shopping and street food.
Independence Palace (Reunification Palace): 1.5 km away, a historic site marking the end of the Vietnam War (The Broke Backpacker).
War Remnants Museum: 10-minute taxi ride, offering insights into Vietnam’s modern history.
Saigon River Promenade: Right outside the hotel—ideal for walks or river cruises.

Day Trips and Excursions

Cu Chi Tunnels: 57 km from the city—explore Vietnam’s wartime history with half- or full-day tours (BestPrice Travel).
Mekong Delta: 2–3 hours away—boat tours, floating markets, and rural scenery (Vietnam Is Awesome).
Vung Tau: 2 hours by car—beaches and seafood, perfect for day trips (Vietnam Is Awesome).

Visitor FAQs

Q: What are the visiting hours for Hotel Majestic Saigon’s public areas?
A: Public areas are open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily; hotel guests have 24/7 access.

Q: Is there a ticket fee to visit the hotel?
A: No, public spaces are free to enter; special events may require advance reservations.

Q: How do I book a stay or special event?
A: Bookings can be made via the official website or major travel platforms.

Q: Is the hotel accessible for people with disabilities?
A: Yes, the hotel has ramps, elevators, and accessible rooms.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Yes, inquire at the concierge for historical or architectural tours.

Q: What major attractions are nearby?
A: Saigon Opera House, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, and War Remnants Museum.

Q: How do I get from the airport to the hotel?
A: Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available; the airport is about 8 km away.

Q: What is the best season to visit?
A: December to April (dry season) is ideal for sightseeing.

Conclusion and Visitor Recommendations

Hotel Majestic Saigon is not merely a luxury hotel—it is a living testament to the dynamic history, architectural heritage, and cosmopolitan spirit of Ho Chi Minh City. Its French Colonial and Art Deco design, combined with a prime riverfront location and easy access to the city’s most important historical sites, make it an exceptional base for both leisure and cultural exploration (Wikipedia; Vietnam.travel).

Whether you are savoring breakfast on the terrace, enjoying sunset cocktails at the rooftop bar, or setting out to discover the city’s museums and markets, the Majestic offers a seamless blend of heritage and modern comfort. For the fullest experience, book in advance, leverage the hotel’s concierge services for tours and transport, and follow the latest updates via their official channels and the Audiala app.