A Local Expert’s Guide for First-Time Visitors in Ben Thanh Market

Smack in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1, Ben Thanh Market is loud, colorful, and at times overwhelming but that’s exactly the charm. It’s not just a place to shop; it’s a living, breathing piece of Saigon’s history and daily life.

As local guides, we’ve brought countless travelers here, not just to buy things, but to experience something authentic. This market isn’t polished or curated for tourists. It’s gritty, real, and pulsing with local energy from sunrise to nightfall.

In this guide, we’ll show you what to expect at Ben Thanh Market, how to navigate its maze of stalls, what’s worth buying (and eating!), and how to make the most of your visit, even if markets aren’t usually your thing.

Why Ben Thanh Market Is Worth Visiting

If you want a snapshot of Saigon’s everyday hustle, with a dash of history, a pinch of bargaining, and a whole lot of flavor, Ben Thanh Market is your spot.

First opened in the early 20th century under French colonial rule, this market has survived wars, floods, and modernization. While some parts now cater heavily to tourists, it remains a vital part of the city’s fabric, with generations of vendors selling everything from dried shrimp to áo dài (Vietnamese long dresses) under one vast roof.

Whether you're hunting for souvenirs, trying your first bowl of local food, or just watching local life unfold, Ben Thanh is not about perfection, it’s about immersion.

What makes it stand out:

• A unique blend of tourist-friendly shops and local trading culture
• One of the oldest surviving landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City
• A culinary playground, with authentic street food all day long
• A great place to practice your bargaining skills (and your patience!)

For many travelers, Ben Thanh Market becomes a memorable highlight, not because it’s polished, but because it’s real.

Check out our best Full-day and Half-day Ho Chi Minh guided tours (with over 500 5-star reviews) by local experts which include Ben Thanh Market.

Essential Visitor Info for Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is not only one of the oldest surviving landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, it’s also one of the easiest to access. Whether you're here for shopping, food, or cultural immersion, this section will help you navigate the market like a local.

1. Location & Getting There

Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh sits at a bustling crossroad in central District 1, surrounded by major streets like Le Loi, Ham Nghi, and Phan Chu Trinh. It's a 10-minute walk from the Opera House, Reunification Palace, and many downtown hotels.

How to Get There:

• On foot: If you're staying in District 1 (especially near Nguyen Hue, Bui Vien, or Dong Khoi), Ben Thanh is easily walkable.
• By Grab/taxi: Affordable and reliable. Just type "Ben Thanh Market" in the app, drivers know it well.
• By motorbike: Parking available around the market, though it can get crowded at peak hours.
• Future Metro Access: The upcoming Ben Thanh Station (Metro Line 1) will be right in front of the market, making it even more convenient.

Local Tip: Use the Phan Chu Trinh entrance (back side) if you're arriving during busy hours (10 AM–2 PM) to skip the crowds and enter directly near the food court.

2. Opening Hours & Best Times to Visit

• Day Market: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Night Market (outside only): 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Best Times to Visit:

• Early morning (6:00–9:00 AM): For a local feel, see residents buying breakfast, flowers, and fresh produce.
• Late afternoon (4:00–5:30 PM): Quieter shopping time before night market stalls roll out.
• Evening (after 6:00 PM): For a livelier, festive feel with food vendors, lights, and open-air dining on the surrounding streets.

Avoid midday heat (12–2 PM), especially if you're sensitive to crowds or warm indoor spaces.

3. What to Buy – Top Picks & Shopping Tips

Ben Thanh is packed with hundreds of stalls selling nearly everything. While some goods are tourist-oriented, there are still great finds - if you know what to look for.

Best Buys:

• Souvenirs & Handicrafts: Lacquerware, bamboo kitchen tools, handmade accessories, coconut wood items
• Fashion: T-shirts, scarves, handbags, custom-tailored áo dài, sunglasses
• Local Delicacies: Dried seafood, lotus seeds, candied ginger, dried mango and jackfruit
• Coffee & Tea: Try the local robusta, weasel coffee, or artfully packaged loose-leaf teas
• Spices & Sauces: Vietnamese curry, chili salt blends, and small bottles of premium fish sauce (great gifts)

Haggling 101:

• Bargaining is expected. Vendors usually start with inflated prices.
• Begin at 40–50% of the quoted price, and negotiate with a smile.
• Buy in bundles (e.g., 3–5 items) for better deals.

*Local Insight: Always double-check packaging and expiration dates on edible goods. Some vendors offer vacuum-sealed packs ideal for travel.

4. What to Eat – A Culinary Adventure

Ben Thanh Market is one of the best places to sample authentic Vietnamese dishes in one spot. The indoor food court is simple but legendary.

Must-Try Dishes:

• Bún riêu cua: Crab and tomato noodle soup with a rich, tangy broth
• Bánh xèo: Crispy savory crepes filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts
• Cơm tấm: “Broken rice” with grilled pork chop and egg
• Gỏi cuốn & Chả giò: Fresh and fried spring rolls
• Chè thập cẩm: Colorful mixed Vietnamese sweet soup with beans, jelly, and coconut milk

Drinks to Try:

• Cà phê sữa đá: Vietnamese iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk
• Nước mía: Fresh sugarcane juice, perfect for hot afternoons
• Sinh tố: Fresh fruit smoothies made to order

Local Tip: Many food vendors have no English menus, but most dishes are displayed or pictured. Just point and don’t be shy!

5. Facilities & Accessibility

• Toilets: Available near the back food court. Some charge a small fee (2,000–5,000 VND).
• Wi-Fi: Not guaranteed inside, but most nearby cafés offer free Wi-Fi.
• Air conditioning: The market is mostly open-air with ceiling fans, dress light.
• ATM & Currency Exchange: Small money changers and ATMs are located around the market perimeter.
• Language barrier: Most vendors speak basic English. Some use calculators or gesture to show prices. Patience goes a long way.

Cash Only: While a few shops may accept cards, cash is king - bring small bills (10,000 to 100,000 VND denominations) for easier transactions.

6. How Much Time to Allow

Most visitors spend 1 to 2 hours here.

If you're just browsing and trying a quick snack, 45 minutes may suffice. But to truly enjoy the atmosphere, shop thoughtfully, and sit down for a local dish or two, give yourself at least 90 minutes.

Want a smoother experience? Consider visiting with a local guide to help you navigate food stalls, bargain smarter, and learn the stories behind what you’re seeing.

Combine Your Visit: What’s Nearby?

Thanks to its central location in District 1, Ben Thanh Market makes a perfect base to explore some of Ho Chi Minh City’s top attractions, all within walking distance. Here’s how to turn your visit into a half-day cultural and shopping loop:

1. Saigon Fine Arts Museum – 5-minute walk

• Address: 97A Pho Duc Chinh, District 1
• Open: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (closed on Mondays)

Housed in a French colonial mansion with colorful floor tiles and winding staircases, this museum is both an architectural gem and a cultural hub. You’ll find:

• Modern art and propaganda posters from the war era
• Traditional lacquer paintings and sculptures
• Rotating exhibitions from emerging Vietnamese artists

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the upper floors—the light-filled corridors and French windows make for stunning photos.

2. Saigon Square – 7-minute walk

• Address: 81 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 1
• Open: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM

A more modern, air-conditioned alternative to Ben Thanh, Saigon Square is popular for:

• Fashionable knock-offs (Nike, Zara, Uniqlo, etc.)
• Luggage, backpacks, and travel accessories
• Tailor-made clothing and shoes

Unlike Ben Thanh, prices here are often fixed, but still negotiable if you buy multiple items. Vendors are used to tourists, so English is commonly spoken.

Local Tip: If you’re short on time or don’t enjoy bargaining, Saigon Square offers a more streamlined shopping experience.

3. Nguyen Hue Walking Street – 15-minute walk

• Location: Nguyen Hue Boulevard, District 1

This wide pedestrian boulevard stretches from City Hall down to the Saigon River, and is one of the most vibrant public spaces in the city. Go in the late afternoon or early evening for:

• People-watching: Locals gather here to skate, dance, or enjoy street performances
• Historic buildings: Admire French colonial facades and the iconic City Hall
• Café Apartment (42 Nguyen Hue): A former apartment block turned into a vertical maze of indie coffee shops, fashion boutiques, and hidden rooftop bars

Pro Tip: Grab a drink at one of the top-floor cafés for a panoramic sunset view of the boulevard below.

4. Bui Vien Walking Street (Backpacker Area) – 12-minute walk

• Address: Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1
• Best visited after 6:00 PM

If you’re up for something livelier after your market visit, Bui Vien offers a chaotic but entertaining slice of Ho Chi Minh City nightlife. Expect:

• Street bars with loud music and neon signs
• Inexpensive eats from BBQ skewers to bánh mì
• Massage parlors, live music venues, and bustling crowds

Caution: It’s fun but can get rowdy late at night. Keep your valuables secure and stick to well-lit areas.

5. Bitexco Tower & Saigon Skydeck – 15-minute walk

• Address: 36 Ho Tung Mau, District 1
• Entrance: ~200,000 VND for Skydeck access

The Bitexco Financial Tower is a sleek symbol of modern Saigon. Head to the 49th floor for sweeping 360-degree views of the city and river below.

Bonus: For a more upscale experience, skip the Skydeck ticket and grab a drink at the EON51 Lounge on the 52nd floor, views included.

Final Thoughts: A Market That Tells a Story

You may come to Ben Thanh Market for the shopping or the food but you’ll leave with something more: a glimpse into the heart of Saigon, both past and present. It’s not just a market. It’s a mosaic of flavors, voices, and daily rituals that have shaped this city for over a century.

So go with an open mind, a few small bills, and maybe an empty stomach. Let yourself get a little lost. Bargain, laugh, taste, and take it all in - because this, truly, is the flavor of Saigon. And if you need support or have any questions about your visit, we’re always here to help 24/7.

Want to explore Ben Thanh Market with a local guide?
Join one of our top-rated city tours to dive deeper into Saigon’s culture, cuisine, and stories, led by locals who call this city home.

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