In December, the grounds in front of Notre Dame Cathedral are adorned with yellow string lights. This marks the third holiday season the landmark has been decorated since its 2017 restoration, drawing many visitors for year-end photos.

Nhat Anh, a tour guide specializing in Ho Chi Minh City night tours, recommends five cafes that are centrally located, offer good photo opportunities, and provide prime spots to view Notre Dame Cathedral illuminated.

Nguoi Tam Chuyen House Cafe

Nguoi Tam Chuyen House Cafe is on the top floor of the apartment building at 26 Ly Tu Trong, Saigon ward, a hub for fashion, eateries, and art spaces popular with young people. The journey to the cafe offers a unique experience, as visitors pass through residential corridors characteristic of Saigon. Guests are asked to maintain quiet to avoid disturbing residents.

The access includes an old-style staircase with iron railings, reminiscent of French architecture, and a functional box-shaped elevator, evoking the atmosphere of historic European hotels.

A view of Notre Dame Cathedral from Nguoi Tam Chuyen House cafe. Photo: Ngo Tran Hai An

The cafe is small, featuring only three tables, but offers a direct view of Notre Dame Cathedral through its window, creating a cozy and quiet ambiance. Due to limited seating, Nhat Anh suggests making reservations to avoid waiting.

This cafe is ideal for small groups, intimate conversations, or recording small programs requiring privacy. The drink menu is diverse, including teas, coffees, and juices, with prices starting from 60,000 VND.

RuNam d'Or Cafe

For those who appreciate French villa aesthetics, RuNam d'Or on Cong Xa Paris street is an ideal stop, featuring arched ceilings and classic decorative details. Located to the right of Notre Dame Cathedral, the cafe boasts an elegant interior with many tables near windows offering expansive night views. The cafe provides private corners for conversation and areas for those needing to work.

The menu blends coffee, pastries, and modern European-Vietnamese dishes, with prices ranging from 80,000 to 500,000 VND. Tour guide Nhat Anh considers this a prime choice for enjoying the festive atmosphere in a tranquil setting.

The view from RuNam d'Or towards Notre Dame Cathedral. Photo: Ngo Tran Hai An

Saigon Corner

On Alexandre De Rhodes street, Saigon Corner evokes an 80s vintage style with wooden tables and chairs, aged walls, and nostalgic decorative items. The spacious cafe, spanning nearly 400 square meters, is divided into various zones and surrounded by the lush greenery of Thong Nhat Park. A highlight is its balcony, which overlooks Notre Dame Cathedral and the city center's bustling street.

Saigon Corner cafe at night. Photo: Saigon Corner

The space includes indoor seating and a few outdoor tables, suitable for working, meetings, or simply people-watching. Beyond coffee, juices, and pastries, the menu also offers food items such as sandwiches, salads, and simple brunch options. Drink prices range from 45,000 to 80,000 VND, and food items from 70,000 to 150,000 VND, reflecting central location pricing.

Cafe Giong

Located approximately 30 meters from Notre Dame Cathedral on Nguyen Du street, Cafe Giong attracts young people due to its convenient location for night views of the city center. The cafe's interior features a minimalist design with light wood tones, offering outdoor seating and an upper floor with a direct view of the cathedral.

Despite the lively Christmas atmosphere in the surrounding area, the cafe maintains a necessary tranquility inside. The menu primarily includes coffee, cold brew, tea, and fruit juices, with prices ranging from 45,000 to 75,000 VND.

Cafe Giong at night. Photo: Trieu Nguyen

Highlands Coffee Nguyen Van Binh

Situated directly on the book street and 20 meters from Notre Dame Cathedral, Highlands Coffee Nguyen Van Binh offers an open space with expansive views. The two-story interior features the brand's familiar wooden decor, with many tables near glass windows facing the square. It suits guests looking to work or relax in the city center.

A corner of Highlands Coffee cafe to the left of Notre Dame Cathedral. Photo: Kaz

The cafe is busiest from 6 PM to 9 PM, when many seek a spot to view the cathedral illuminated and capture the Christmas ambiance. Drink prices here range from 45,000 to 85,000 VND, including traditional Vietnamese phin coffee, lattes, and seasonal items.

Tuan Anh