10 Must-Visit Churches in Vietnam

Vietnam is renowned not only for its breathtaking landscapes but also for its stunning and culturally rich architecture. Among them, churches stand out as remarkable landmarks that represent the religious and historical significance of different regions. Let’s explore the top 10 most famous churches in Vietnam, each offering a unique architectural story.

1. Sapa Stone Church, Lao Cai

Front view of Sapa Stone Church with mountains in the background

Located near Ham Rong Mountain, Sapa Stone Church is a landmark in the heart of Sapa. Built in Roman Gothic style, the church features a bell tower, arched roof, and dome—all crafted from precisely cut stones bound with sand, lime, and molasses.

2. St. Joseph Cathedral, Hanoi

St. Joseph Cathedral in Hanoi with tall Gothic spires and tourist in front

Situated on Nha Chung Street, St. Joseph Cathedral is an iconic image of European Gothic architecture in Hanoi. The tall towers and stained-glass windows make it a favorite backdrop for wedding and travel photos. The surrounding area is also a local hotspot for coffee and street-side chats.

3. Phat Diem Cathedral, Ninh Binh

Exterior of Phat Diem Cathedral with fusion Vietnamese-European architecture

Covering 22 hectares in Kim Son District, Phat Diem Cathedral is a rare blend of Gothic architecture and traditional Vietnamese temples. Besides the main building, the complex includes chapels, caves, a bell tower (Phuong Dinh), and intricate carvings of flowers representing the four seasons.

4. Wooden Church, Kontum

Wooden Church in Kontum with native carvings and tall wooden bell tower

This over-100-year-old Roman-style church in Kontum blends local Central Highlands motifs with wood carvings and straw-clay walls. The internal columns are made from precious hardwood and reflect indigenous spiritual symbols.

5. Buon Ho Church, Dak Lak

Buon Ho Church in Dak Lak with twin bell towers and wide front yard

Reminiscent of Saigon’s Notre-Dame Cathedral, Buon Ho Church stands on a hillside with Gothic twin towers and a dome over the sanctuary. Its location along Highway 14 makes it a popular stop for travelers exploring the Central Highlands.

6. Christ the King Cathedral, Nha Trang

Nha Trang’s Christ the King Cathedral with Gothic stone facade and stained-glass windows

Perched 12 meters above sea level, this Gothic cathedral is one of the top attractions in Nha Trang. Built in Western Catholic style, it features stained-glass windows and stone structures, offering panoramic views of the city from its hilltop location.

7. Domaine de Marie Church, Dalat

Domaine de Marie Church with pink facade and Central Highlands-inspired architecture

Also known as Mai Anh Church, this 1930s French-built convent combines Western and Central Highland folk styles. Visitors can purchase local handicrafts from the sisters who also care for disabled children on-site.

8. St. Nicholas Cathedral (Rooster Church), Dalat

St. Nicholas Cathedral in Dalat with rooster statue atop the tower

Often referred to as the “Rooster Church,” this neo-Romanesque structure is Dalat’s oldest and largest church. Built in the 1930s by the French, the church’s rooster-shaped weather vane has made it a beloved local landmark.

9. Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral with red brick facade and two tall spires

This French colonial masterpiece in Ho Chi Minh City was designed by architect J. Bourard. Made from imported materials like red bricks from Marseille, the cathedral remains a stunning symbol of colonial architecture despite ongoing restorations since 2017.

10. Tac Say Church, Bac Lieu

Tac Say Church in Bac Lieu with clock tower and 3-tiered roof design

Also known as Father Diep Church, Tac Say Church is a pilgrimage site dedicated to Father Truong Buu Diep. Its three-level architecture and central clock tower draw both spiritual visitors and tourists alike to Gia Rai District in Bac Lieu.

Conclusion

From the misty highlands of Sapa to the coastal charm of Nha Trang and the historical heart of Saigon, Vietnam’s churches offer more than just places of worship — they are living testaments to the country's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Whether you’re drawn to Gothic spires, wooden wonders, or Vietnamese-European fusion styles, each of these churches invites you to explore Vietnam through a spiritual and artistic lens.

If you’re planning a cultural or religious tour through Vietnam, make sure to include these iconic churches in your itinerary. They offer a peaceful retreat and a deep connection to the country’s diverse history.

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