When exploring the architectural heritage of Ho Chi Minh City, one cannot miss the vibrant and distinctively colored Tan Dinh Church, often referred to as the "Pink Church." Located in District 3, this area offers a slightly more serene atmosphere compared to the bustling District 1, characterized by numerous French-style buildings and leafy streets. Travelers have noted that District 3 feels more secluded and quiet, making it a perfect starting point for an architectural walking tour.

• Tan Dinh Church (Jesus' Sacred Heart Church): This is a primary stop for photographers and architecture enthusiasts. As noted by visitors, it is a must-visit location for a "Day 1" itinerary. The bright pink façade makes it a unique standout among the city's colonial structures.
• Nearby Dining: After admiring the church, the surrounding area is a culinary hotspot. Just a short walk away is the famous Pho Hoa Pasteur, a Michelin-recommended spot known for its tender beef and sweet broth. It is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, with menus featuring clear pictures for easy ordering.
• Coffee Culture: District 3 is also home to excellent coffee spots that complement the relaxed vibe. You might find hidden gems like iO Specialty Coffee, praised for having the best coconut coffee where espresso is poured over coconut ice slush.

District 3 is described as having a "quiet" environment with many French buildings, making it an ideal place to stay for those who want to be near the action but not in the middle of the noise. Accommodations like M Village in this district offer duplex apartments with small kitchens, providing a convenient base for exploring the nearby architectural marvels.

Moving into District 1, the density of colonial landmarks increases significantly. The area around the Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica and the Central Post Office represents the historic core of the city. These landmarks are often grouped together in travel itineraries due to their proximity.

• Saigon Notre-Dame Basilica: Although currently undergoing renovations (as noted by recent travelers), the exterior remains an imposing sight. It is located in a prime "golden" location in District 1, just minutes away from other major sites.
• Central Post Office: Located right next to the cathedral, this functional post office is a masterpiece of colonial design. It is a standard stop on almost every city tour, often visited in conjunction with the Reunification Palace and the Fine Arts Museum.
• Book Street: Adjacent to the cathedral and post office is the charming Book Street. It is a pedestrian-friendly area that offers a break from the traffic and is a great spot for photos and a leisurely stroll.

For those staying in the city center, these landmarks are incredibly accessible. Hotels in this "Golden Area" allow you to walk to the Opera House in 5 minutes and the Cathedral in 6 minutes. After a day of exploring these historic structures, you can retreat to nearby luxury accommodations that blend modern amenities with classic aesthetics, such as hotels featuring wine-red hues and Japanese-style onsens, offering a "low-key luxury" vibe.

For a truly immersive experience into the French colonial past, one must visit the sites associated with famous literature and arts. The Saigon Opera House and the Hotel Continental Saigon stand as testaments to this era.

• The Hotel Continental Saigon: This hotel is steeped in history. It is where Graham Greene wrote The Quiet American. Travelers recommend booking the "Graham Greene Suite" to feel the history. The rooms retain traces of the past with simple displays, and the balconies offer a view of the bustling street life below—a scene that Greene himself might have observed. The interior features deep red floors and wooden furniture, evoking a strong sense of nostalgia.
• Saigon Opera House: Directly across from the Continental stands the Opera House, built in 1900. It features Gothic architecture with intricate reliefs and patterns. By day, it presents a stone-white façade, but at night, warm yellow lights give it a gilded, majestic appearance. It is a perfect backdrop for evening photography.
• The AO Show: To fully experience the Opera House, visitors highly recommend attending the AO Show. This cultural spectacle utilizes bamboo props and acrobatics to tell the story of Vietnam's transition from rural to urban life. The interior of the theater is described as a century-old French architectural gem, and the show itself is considered a "national treasure" level performance.

Nearby, you can find high-end dining and accommodation options, including the Park Hyatt Saigon, which also exudes a colonial charm, and various rooftop bars that offer views over these historic roofs.

Another cornerstone of the colonial architectural tour is the Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum. This building is famous not just for the art it houses, but for the building itself.

• Architecture and Atmosphere: The museum is housed in a stunning yellow colonial-era mansion. It is widely known as one of the filming locations for the movie The Lover (L'Amant). The architecture features yellow walls, shuttered windows, and tiled floors that transport visitors back in time. It is described as a "must-visit" for photos, capturing the essence of "Old Saigon."
• Visitor Experience: Travelers note that the museum is a great place to wander, but some mention it can be hot or crowded. However, the aesthetic value makes it a top priority for itineraries. It is often grouped with a visit to the nearby Ben Thanh Market.
• Nearby Dining: After soaking in the art and history, you are close to excellent dining options. For instance, Man Moi, a Michelin-recommended restaurant serving Vietnamese home-cooked dishes, is located right next to the Fine Arts Museum (or the War Remnants Museum in some contexts, but noted as a cultural stop). It’s a great place to rest and enjoy high-quality local cuisine in a refined setting.

Beyond the grand public buildings, the colonial influence permeates the daily life of the city, visible in its markets and repurposed residential blocks.

• The Cafe Apartment: Located on the walking street, this building is an iconic sight. It is an old apartment block that has been converted into a vertical maze of cafes, boutiques, and workspaces. Viewing it from the outside is a visual treat, observing the grid of different shopfronts. Inside, you can explore various floors; however, some travelers note that the elevator requires a small fee or a wait. It represents the adaptive reuse of the city's older structures.
• Ben Thanh Market: A symbol of the city, this market is housed in a colonial-era structure with a famous clock tower. It is a bustling hub for food, souvenirs, and local life. While some find it hard to bargain here, it remains an essential stop. Directly opposite the market, you can find hidden culinary treasures, such as street-side seafood spots that locals frequent.
• Colonial Flavors: The French influence is most tastily preserved in the Banh Mi. This Vietnamese baguette sandwich is a staple. Famous spots like Banh Mi Huynh Hoa offer a heavy, meat-filled experience that serves as a full meal. Another highly recommended spot is Banh Mi Hong Hoa, praised for its crispy baguette and rich pate, a direct legacy of French culinary techniques.

To complete the architectural discovery, choosing the right accommodation is key. Ho Chi Minh City offers several hotels that reflect the "Indochine" or French colonial aesthetic, ranging from luxury to boutique.

• Mai House Saigon Hotel: Travelers have praised this hotel for its distinct French decoration. It is described as clean, with excellent service and a great location, offering a "French" feeling throughout the property.
• M Village & Boutique Options: For a more intimate vibe, locations like M Village in District 3 or Amanaki Thao Dien in District 2 offer unique designs. Some boutique hotels feature wooden furniture, oil paintings, and an "Old Nanyang" (Southeast Asian colonial) atmosphere. One traveler described finding a "dream house" hotel in District 2 with antique decorations and a peaceful environment, perfect for those who appreciate design.
• The Grand Hotels: The Park Hyatt Saigon and the Continental are the heavyweights of colonial luxury. Staying here puts you right in the center of the historical action, often with views of the Opera House or the city's skyline. Even if not staying, visiting for a drink or a meal allows you to soak in the grandeur of the past.

Whether you are walking past the yellow walls of the Fine Arts Museum, watching a cultural show in the Opera House, or enjoying a baguette on the street, the French colonial architecture of Ho Chi Minh City provides a stunning backdrop to a modern, vibrant travel experience.