January
26.9°C ~ 80°F
4 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
War Remnants Museum
A powerful museum on the wars in Vietnam, with outdoor military equipment, photo exhibitions and a former prison section.
- Location
- Ho Chi Minh City
- Time needed
- 1.5 – 2.5 hours
- Entry fee
- 40,000 VND
- Best months
- Dec – Apr
Overview
The War Remnants Museum is one of the most visited museums in Vietnam. It tells the story of the wars of the 20th century from the Vietnamese point of view, using photographs, documents and military equipment from the period.
Outside, US tanks, helicopters and aircraft stand in the courtyard. Inside, the exhibitions cover the war photographers who worked in Vietnam, the effects of Agent Orange and the prison system of the time. The content is serious and sometimes hard to see, but it is a major part of how modern Vietnam sees its own history.
Highlights
- Walk past US tanks, aircraft and artillery in the courtyard
- See the “Requiem” photo exhibition by war photographers
- Visit the replica of the Con Dao “tiger cages”
- Read personal stories on the effects of Agent Orange
Visitor information
| Opening hours | Daily, about 7:30 – 17:30 Ticket counter closes earlier, around 17:00 |
|---|---|
| Entry fee | About 40,000 VND |
| Time needed | 1.5 – 2.5 hours |
| Best time of day | Morning on weekdays |
| Good for | History lovers, adults, teenagers |
| Accessibility | Mostly flat with lifts to some floors; some displays are very graphic |
| Facilities | Cafe, gift shop, toilets, air-conditioned halls |
Prices and hours can change. Check the official source before you go.
Best time to visit
Weather in Ho Chi Minh City by month.
February
27.6°C ~ 82°F
3 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
March
28.6°C ~ 83°F
4 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
April
29.3°C ~ 85°F
12 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
May
28.8°C ~ 84°F
25 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
June
27.7°C ~ 82°F
27 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
July
27.2°C ~ 81°F
29 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
August
27.2°C ~ 81°F
29 days of rain
Crowds: Quiet
September
26.9°C ~ 80°F
29 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
October
26.7°C ~ 80°F
27 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
November
26.8°C ~ 80°F
19 days of rain
Crowds: Moderate
December
26.5°C ~ 80°F
10 days of rain
Crowds: Busy
How to get there
- From Ho Chi Minh City centre
The museum is in District 3, about 10 minutes by Grab or taxi from Ben Thanh Market, or a 25 to 30 minute walk. It is close to Independence Palace, so many visitors do both on the same morning.
- War Remnants Museum
Tips before you go
- Go on a weekday morning to avoid tour groups
- Some photos are disturbing, so think carefully before bringing young children
- Allow at least two hours; the exhibits are text-heavy
- Bring a light layer: the indoor halls are air-conditioned
Location
28 Vo Van Tan, Ward 6, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
More attractions in Ho Chi Minh City
FAQs
How much is the War Remnants Museum ticket?
The adult ticket is about 40,000 VND. Students and children pay less, and very young children are usually free. Prices can change, so check at the counter.
How long do I need at the museum?
Plan 1.5 to 2.5 hours. If you read most of the captions, allow closer to three.
Is it suitable for children?
It depends on the child. Several rooms show graphic photographs of war injuries, so many families choose to visit only the outdoor area and the lighter floors.