Museums in Vietnam: A Journey Through History, Art, and Culture

If you’re planning a trip to Vietnam and want a real sense of its culture, history, and art, museums are some of the best places to visit in Vietnam.  The country’s museums are treasure troves that bring its fascinating history to life. Museums in Vietnam offer visitors an eye-opening journey through time, from ancient dynasties to modern days. These cultural spaces showcase everything from stunning traditional art and age-old artifacts to moving war exhibits and glimpses of daily village life.

What makes these museums in Vietnam special isn’t just their collections – it’s how they capture the spirit of a nation that has preserved its traditions while embracing change. Walk through their halls and you’ll discover why Vietnam’s past continues to amaze visitors from around the world. Let’s go through some of the best museums to visit in Vietnam, each of which offers its own perspective on the country’s diverse past and culture which you can explore when you travel with our Vietnam Tour Packages!

1. Vietnam Museum of Ethnology (Hanoi)

Our first stop is the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology in Hanoi. This is truly one of the top museums in Vietnam and a favorite for visitors who want to learn about the many different ethnic groups in the country. With exhibits dedicated to Vietnam’s 54 recognized ethnic groups, you’ll see traditional costumes, handcrafted musical instruments, and even homes built in the architectural styles specific to each group.

The museum has both indoor and outdoor sections, so you can wander between rooms filled with artifacts and displays, and then step outside to see full-sized traditional houses, complete with furniture and tools. For those who enjoy exploring different cultures, this is a must-visit on the list of museums in Vietnam. It’s best to visit early in the day to avoid crowds, as the museum is popular among both locals and tourists.

Location: Nguyễn Văn Huyên Street, Cầu Giấy, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Entry Fee: Around 40,000 VND for adults, and 15,000 VND for students. Children under 6 enter free.

Best Time to Visit: Mornings, especially on weekdays, to enjoy a quieter experience.

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2. War Remnants Museum (Ho Chi Minh City)

For a more somber look at Vietnam’s recent past, head to the War Remnants Museum in Ho Chi Minh City. This is one of the most popular museums in Vietnam, drawing thousands of visitors each year who come to learn about the Vietnam War from the Vietnamese perspective. The exhibits are intense, with photos, written accounts, and displays of military equipment that tell the story of the war’s devastating effects on the country.

One of the hardest-hitting sections covers the impact of chemical warfare on Vietnamese civilians, with photos and stories that are difficult but important to see. Despite its heavy content, this is one of the best museums to visit in Vietnam for understanding the resilience of the Vietnamese people. A visit here is often described as eye-opening and humbling.

Location: 28 Vo Van Tan, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 6:00 PM (Open daily)

Entry Fee: Around 40,000 VND for adults; discounts are available for students.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings or late afternoons tend to be less crowded.

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3. Ho Chi Minh Museum (Hanoi)

Dedicated to Vietnam’s national hero, the Ho Chi Minh Museum in Hanoi is a place where you can learn about the life of the man who led Vietnam to independence. The museum highlights Ho Chi Minh’s personal life, his time abroad, and his role in Vietnam’s revolutionary history.

It’s located within the larger Ho Chi Minh complex, which includes the famous mausoleum where Ho Chi Minh’s body is preserved. This museum offers insight into Vietnam’s fight for independence, making it one of the top museums in Vietnam for history enthusiasts. For those who admire Ho Chi Minh’s legacy, this museum provides a deeper look at the man behind the movement.

Location: 19 Ngoc Ha Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:30 AM, 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays and Fridays)

Entry Fee: Around 25,000 VND for adults, free for children under 15.

Best Time to Visit: Arrive early in the morning to avoid long lines, as it gets busier as the day goes on.

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4. Fine Arts Museum (Hanoi)

For art lovers, the Fine Arts Museum in Hanoi is a fantastic stop. This museum covers a wide range of Vietnamese art, from ancient to modern times. The collection includes traditional lacquer paintings, intricate ceramics, and folk art that represents different regions across Vietnam.

Each section of the museum is like a different chapter in the story of Vietnamese art. The building itself is also beautiful, with colonial architecture and a peaceful atmosphere that makes it one of the best museums to visit in Vietnam for anyone interested in art. 

Location: 66 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Entry Fee: Around 40,000 VND for adults; students and children enter at a reduced fee.

Best Time to Visit: Afternoons are typically quieter, allowing for a relaxed visit.

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5. Museum of Vietnamese History (Ho Chi Minh City)

If you’re fascinated by ancient history, then the Museum of Vietnamese History in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best museums to visit in Vietnam. Situated next to the Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, this museum traces Vietnam’s history from prehistoric times to the present.

You’ll find artifacts from the Bronze Age, as well as displays of the country’s 

ancient kingdoms and early Buddhist influences. For those interested in the origins of Vietnamese civilization, this museum offers a complete look at Vietnam’s rich heritage.

Location: 2 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open daily)

Entry Fee: Around 30,000 VND for adults; additional fees may apply for exhibits.

Best Time to Visit: Early afternoons are a good time to visit, especially if you plan to combine the visit with a stroll in the nearby botanical gardens.

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6. Women’s Museum (Hanoi)

The Women’s Museum in Hanoi is a unique and empowering place to visit. Focusing on the role of women in Vietnamese society, the museum showcases traditional family life, marriage customs, and the contributions of women in Vietnam’s workforce. There’s also a section dedicated to women’s roles in the Vietnam War, making it one of the few war museums in Vietnam that offers a perspective on women’s involvement.

The museum does a great job of celebrating women’s strength, resilience, and achievements, making it one of the most popular museums in Vietnam for anyone interested in gender studies and social history. 

Location: 36 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open daily)

Entry Fee: Around 40,000 VND for adults, with discounts for students.

Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Vietnam’s museums is Mornings are generally quieter, offering a peaceful experience.

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7. Ho Chi Minh City Museum (Ho Chi Minh City)

This museum, housed in a beautiful French colonial building, covers the history and cultural evolution of Ho Chi Minh City. Exhibits range from displays of Vietnamese revolutionary history to sections dedicated to traditional crafts. The architecture of the building alone makes it a worthwhile visit.

For those who want a blend of historical and cultural insights, the Ho Chi Minh City Museum is one of the top museums in Vietnam to check out. It’s also conveniently located near other attractions, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring the city.

Location: 65 Ly Tu Trong Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Open daily)

Entry Fee: Around 30,000 VND for adults.

Best Time to Visit: Afternoons tend to be less crowded, so you can take your time to explore.

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8. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (Hanoi)

Although not exactly a museum, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is an important historical site in Vietnam. This is where the body of Ho Chi Minh lies in a glass coffin, preserved for visitors to pay their respects. Visiting this mausoleum is a powerful experience, as it’s considered a place of reverence for the Vietnamese.

The mausoleum is part of a larger complex that includes the Ho Chi Minh Museum. Because of its significance, the mausoleum is one of the most popular museums in Vietnam in terms of visitor numbers.

Location: 2 Hung Vuong, Dien Bien, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM (Closed Mondays and Fridays; closed annually for maintenance in October-November)

Entry Fee: Free entry.

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings are ideal for a quieter experience.

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9. Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture (Danang)

The Danang Museum of Cham Sculpture holds an incredible collection of Cham artifacts, dating back to the 7th century. This museum is dedicated to the Cham people, an ancient ethnic group with a unique culture and style of art. Many of the sculptures depict Hindu deities and other elements from the Cham culture, which once thrived in Vietnam.

If you’re interested in ancient art, this museum is a standout on the list of museums in Vietnam. The exhibits are stunning, and it’s a great opportunity to learn about a lesser-known aspect of Vietnamese history.

Location: 22 Tháng 9 Street, Hai Chau, Danang

Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM (Open daily)

Entry Fee: Around 60,000 VND for adults; discounts available for students.

Best Time to Visit: Mornings are ideal, especially if you want to take your time to appreciate the intricate details of the sculptures.

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10. Vietnam National Museum of Nature, Hanoi

This museum is a great destination for families and nature lovers. It focuses on Vietnam’s diverse flora and fauna, from prehistoric times to the modern era. The exhibits include fossils, animal skeletons, and models of different ecosystems found in Vietnam. This museum offers an interactive experience, making it one of the top museums in Vietnam for children and educational visits.

Location: 18 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Cau Giay District, Hanoi, Vietnam.

Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM, 1:30 PM – 4:30 PM (Closed on Mondays)

Entry Fee: Free Entry

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Tips for Visiting Museums in Vietnam

Do follow our travel tips for Vietnam’s Museums for a breezy vacation.

– Best Time to Visit Vietnam Museums: To avoid crowds, visit museums in the morning or early afternoon.  

– Vietnam Museums Opening Hours and Timing: Most museums in Vietnam open around 8:00 or 8:30 AM and close by 4:30 or 5:00 PM. Some museums may be closed on Mondays, so plan accordingly.  

– Entrance Fees: While some museums have free entry, most charge a small fee. For example, the War Remnants Museum and the Fine Arts Museum have modest entrance fees.

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Final Thoughts

Exploring museums in Vietnam is one of the best ways to understand the country’s past and present. From the ancient Cham culture to the country’s struggle for independence, these museums reflect Vietnam’s resilience, beauty, and spirit. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply curious about Vietnamese culture, visiting these best museums in Vietnam will make your trip all the more meaningful.