Stretching approximately 670 meters from Nguyễn Du Street to the Saigon River, Đồng Khởi Street in Ho Chi Minh City has long been a reflection of the city’s evolving history.

Rue Catinat: The French Colonial Era

In 1865, during the French colonial period, the street was officially named Rue Catinat, honoring Marshal Nicolas de Catinat from the era of King Louis XIV. This thoroughfare became the heart of colonial Saigon, lined with tamarind trees and bustling with chic boutiques, perfumeries, and cafés. Prominent establishments like the Hotel Continental Saigon, built in 1880, became iconic landmarks, drawing French expatriates and elite residents who gathered for leisurely promenades and social gatherings.

Tự Do Street: The American Influence

Following the departure of the French in 1954, the street was renamed Tự Do (“Freedom”) by President Ngô Đình Diệm. During the Vietnam War, it transformed into a lively district filled with bars, clubs, and entertainment venues catering to American GIs and journalists. The vibrant nightlife made it a focal point of the city’s social scene, with establishments like Wild West, Uncle Sam’s, and Playboy becoming popular spots.

Đồng Khởi: Post-1975 Transformation

After the fall of Saigon in 1975, the street was renamed Đồng Khởi (“Uprising”) to commemorate the 1960 uprisings in Bến Tre Province. In the years following reunification, the once-glamorous street fell into decline, with many businesses closing. However, the economic reforms of Đổi Mới in 1986 marked a turning point, bringing new investment and commercial revival to the area. Over time, it regained its status as a major shopping and cultural destination.

Present-Day Đồng Khởi

Today, Đồng Khởi Street stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most prestigious locations, lined with luxury hotels, high-end boutiques, and historical landmarks. Iconic sites such as the Saigon Opera House, the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, and the Hotel Majestic continue to attract both tourists and locals. Blending its rich past with modern vibrancy, Đồng Khởi remains a symbol of the city’s dynamic evolution.