Thinking about exploring Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City? Great choice! This is one of those spots you just can’t skip—it’s lively, colorful, and packed with energy. Whether you’re here to shop till you drop, hunt for souvenirs, taste amazing street food, or just soak up the atmosphere, this market has it all.
In this guide, we’ll cover what Ben Thanh Market is all about, the best things to do inside, how to get there, tips for visiting, and a few nearby gems you’ll want to check out. Let’s dive in!
So, What Exactly Is Ben Thanh Market?
The iconic Ben Thanh Market clock tower in Ho Chi Minh City
Imagine one of Ho Chi Minh City’s oldest and most bustling markets, with roots going back to the 17th century. That’s Ben Thanh Market for you. The current building is over 100 years old, and its clock tower has become a symbol of the city.
It’s not just for tourists—locals come here too, to shop for daily essentials at the built-in wet market. From clothes and coffee beans to spices and souvenirs, this place has everything. Fair warning though: it’s crowded, noisy, and not air-conditioned. But honestly, that’s part of the charm—it’s a full-on sensory adventure.
Fun Things to Do in Ben Thanh Market
Locals shopping for fresh produce in the wet market area of Ben Thanh / Photo by Percy Pham on Unsplash
Trust me, you won’t be bored here. Here’s what you should look out for:
🛍 Shop Around Like a Pro
- Fresh Fruits & Wet Market (North Gate): Spot vibrant displays of mangoes, dragon fruit, and mangosteens. Even if you don’t buy anything, it’s fun to watch locals bargain over their groceries.
- Fashion & Fabrics (South Gate): Looking for Ben Thanh Market clothes? This is your spot. You’ll find áo dài (Vietnam’s traditional dress), fabric rolls, and tailors who can whip up custom outfits. And yes, you need a nón lá (Vietnamese conical hat) in your life. Souvenirs & Handicrafts (East Gate): Grab handmade lacquerware, embroidered art, or simple trinkets like magnets and keychains.
- Spices & Coffee (West Gate): Follow your nose—you’ll land in spice heaven. This is the place to stock up on Vietnamese Robusta coffee beans or some fragrant cinnamon.
- Replica Goods: Designer bags, watches, and sneakers that look almost too good to be “fake.” Bargaining is essential here—it’s half the fun!
🍜 Eat Your Heart Out
This market is a food lover’s dream. The food court is massive, so come hungry!
- Bún Riêu Cua: Crab noodle soup packed with flavor.
- Broken Rice with BBQ Pork: Saigon’s comfort food—grilled pork, fried egg, and “broken” rice.
- Chè: A sweet mix of beans, jelly, fruit, and coconut milk. Go for “thập cẩm” to try everything in one bowl.
- Vietnamese Coffee: Strong, bold, and usually iced with condensed milk. Perfect for beating the heat.
🌆 Experience Ben Thanh Night Market
Ben Thanh Market glowing at night / Photo from trungydang on Wikimedia
Once the main market shuts down at 6:00 p.m., don’t leave just yet. The streets outside transform into the Ben Thanh Market night scene—lined with stalls selling clothes, trinkets, and sizzling street food. The vibe is more relaxed, with cool evening air and lots of people-watching opportunities.
Ben Thanh Night Market Open Hours: 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Everyday)
How to Get to Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market clock tower and main entrance
Getting here is pretty easy since it’s right in the heart of District 1.
- By Taxi or Grab: The simplest way—just type “Ben Thanh Market” into the app.
- By Bus: Plenty of city buses pass through District 1 and stop near the market.
- Walking: If you’re staying downtown, chances are you can walk there. It’s only about 250 meters from Saigon Square.
- From the Airport: A taxi ride from Tan Son Nhat Airport takes around 30 minutes (traffic permitting).
✈️ Want a hassle-free arrival? You’ve got a couple of great options:
- Skip the long immigration queues with the Tan Son Nhat Airport Fast-Track Service.
- Book a reliable Ho Chi Minh City Airport Transfer straight to your hotel or Ben Thanh Market. No stress, no haggling—just a comfy ride into the city.
Tips Before You Go
A few things to know before diving in:
- Ben Thanh Market opening hours: 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. daily.
- Bargain, bargain, bargain! Vendors expect it. Start at about half the asking price.
- Bring cash. Credit cards are sometimes accepted, but with an extra fee.
- Beat the heat. Dress light and take breaks—it gets hot inside.
- Be respectful. Don’t handle items unless you’re seriously considering buying them.
- Keep an eye on your stuff. Like any busy market, it can be a pickpocket hotspot.
Cool Places Near Ben Thanh Market
Once you’ve shopped and eaten your way through Ben Thanh Market, don’t rush off—there are plenty of awesome spots nearby worth exploring.
🛍️ Saigon Square
Ho Chi Minh City Hall / Photo by Suzi Kim on Unsplash
Just a quick 5-minute walk away, Saigon Square is another shopping haven. You’ll find clothes, luggage, and accessories at bargain prices. It’s indoors and a little more structured than the market, but still busy and buzzing.
🎨 War Remnants Museum
Aircraft in front of the War Remnants Museum
History buffs, this one’s for you. About a 10-minute taxi ride from the market, the War Remnants Museum offers a powerful look at Vietnam’s history, especially the Vietnam War era. The exhibits are moving, thought-provoking, and worth setting aside an hour or two.
🎭 Saigon Opera House
The stunning French colonial Saigon Opera House in Ho Chi Minh City / Photo by Alberto Capparelli on Pexels
If you’re in the mood for something elegant, head to the Saigon Opera House (officially the Municipal Theatre of Ho Chi Minh City). Built in 1897, this stunning French colonial building hosts cultural shows, ballets, and concerts. Even if you don’t watch a performance, it’s gorgeous just to admire from the outside—especially when it’s lit up at night.
🚤 Saigon Highlight Day Tour with Water Bus
Want to see more of the city without worrying about planning every detail? The Saigon Highlight Day Tour takes you to some of Ho Chi Minh City’s best attractions, with a scenic river ride included. It’s a fun and relaxing way to experience Saigon beyond the market.
Stay Connected with a Vietnam eSIM
One of the best travel hacks for Vietnam? Staying online without hunting for a SIM card shop. With a Vietnam eSIM, you can set everything up before you even land. Just scan a QR code, activate, and boom—you’ve got instant high-speed internet.
Why does this matter for your Ben Thanh Market adventure? Because having data makes it way easier to:
- Pull up maps so you don’t get lost in the maze of stalls.
- Use translation apps when bargaining with vendors.
- Look up food recommendations on the spot.
- Share those “I just bought this at the market!” moments on social media.
It’s affordable, stress-free, and saves you from the hassle of physical SIM cards. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself once you’re in the middle of Ho Chi Minh City’s hustle and bustle.
FAQs about Ben Thanh Market
What is Ben Thanh Market famous for?
For its mix of shopping, souvenirs, food, and its vibrant, chaotic charm.
Is Ben Thanh Market still open?
Yes! It’s open daily, and the night market kicks off right outside after 6:00 p.m.
How big is Ben Thanh Market?
It’s over 13,000 square meters with hundreds of stalls inside.
Do I need to bargain?
Absolutely—especially for souvenirs and clothes. Vendors expect it.
Can I use credit cards?
Some stalls accept them, but cash is king here.
So there you have it—a full guide to Ben Thanh Market. Whether you’re here to shop for souvenirs, taste authentic Vietnamese food, or just people-watch, you’ll leave with a smile (and maybe a few shopping bags).
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