Independence Palace

Overview

The Independence Palace is one of Vietnam's most historically significant landmarks. On April 30, 1975, a North Vietnamese tank crashed through the gates here, ending the Vietnam War.

Highlights

• War Room: The basement houses the original communications center, war maps, and telecommunications equipment.
• Rooftop Helipad: Where the famous last helicopter evacuations took place, with a UH-1 Huey on display.
• 1960s Interiors: A time capsule of modernist design with original furniture and a cinema.

History

Designed by Vietnamese architect Ngo Viet Thu and completed in 1966, replacing the earlier Norodom Palace destroyed in a 1962 bombing.

Visitor Tips

• Guided Tour: English tours run every 30 minutes.
• Morning Visit: Arrive early to beat tour bus crowds.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.