Ben Thanh Market sits in central Ho Chi Minh City and is an easy first stop in District 1. Our editor’s pick is a 1–1.5 hour visit: go in the morning for the market atmosphere, or finish in the late afternoon and continue toward Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Is Ben Thanh Market worth visiting?
For a first trip to Ho Chi Minh City, we think it is worth one visit—but you do not need to reserve your entire morning. The experience is less about finding the city’s absolute lowest prices and more about seeing coffee, spices, textiles, handicrafts, food stalls and tourism all under one historic roof.
What can you buy at Ben Thanh Market?
- Vietnamese coffee and tea: Ask about weight, roast and sealed packaging.
- Dried fruit, nuts and spices: Check expiry dates and package condition before buying.
- Handicrafts and souvenirs: Compare woven bags, lacquerware, magnets and small accessories.
- Textiles and clothing: Inspect size, stitching and material rather than relying only on display pieces.
- Cooked food and drinks: Confirm the price before ordering and choose busy stalls serving freshly prepared food.
How should you bargain?
- Not every stall negotiates. Respect clearly marked or fixed prices.
- When there is no price label, ask first, compare a few stalls and make a polite offer.
- If you cannot agree, say thank you and walk away without turning it into a confrontation.
- Before paying, confirm the item, quantity, currency and change.
- Keep your phone, wallet and bag in front of you in the market’s narrow aisles.
A short history of Ben Thanh Market
The market traces its origins to trading activity near old Saigon’s riverfront. After the earlier market was destroyed and rebuilt during the 19th century, the present market building was constructed in the early 20th century and opened in 1914. Its clock tower later became one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most recognizable landmarks.
How to get to Ben Thanh Market
- Metro: Take Ho Chi Minh City Metro Line 1 to Ben Thanh Station and follow the on-site exit signs.
- On foot: Saigon Centre, Nguyen Hue Walking Street and the Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts all fit into a central-city walk.
- Grab or taxi: Use “Ben Thanh Market” as the destination and watch for traffic when getting out.
- Lanytrip private charter: Useful when combining the market with the Independence Palace, Central Post Office and Tan Dinh Church.
How to arrange nearby sights
Central city walk
Ben Thanh Market → Saigon Centre → Nguyen Hue Walking Street → City Opera House
Historic half-day
Ben Thanh Market → Independence Palace → Notre-Dame Cathedral → Central Post Office
Market and art
Ben Thanh Market → Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts → Pham Ngu Lao
Ho Chi Minh City tours and transport
Saigon Ao Dai City Tour
View detailsLanytrip Ho Chi Minh Airport Transfer
View detailsLanytrip private charter
View detailsFrequently asked questions
Is there an entrance fee?
No. Entry is free; you pay only for shopping and food.
What is the best time to visit?
Our editor’s choice is 7:00–10:00 AM, when the weather is usually easier and the market fits neatly before other District 1 sights. Individual stall hours still vary.
Can I bargain at every stall?
No. Some stalls use fixed prices. When no price is shown, ask and compare politely while respecting the seller’s terms.
Can I visit Ben Thanh Market at night?
The main indoor stalls gradually close, and evening activity around the market can change. For the complete indoor experience, arrive before late afternoon and follow current on-site notices.
Our editor’s quick take
Ben Thanh Market works best at the beginning or end of a District 1 walk. Do one lap before buying, compare prices and choose only the souvenirs you genuinely like. Even without shopping, the clock tower and the busy market atmosphere make it a worthwhile city stop.
