Complete travel guide to Ben Thanh market in Ho Chi Minh
Ho Chi Minh City’s central market is a must-see destination, offering shopping, souvenirs, vibrant street food and cultural experiences, with tips on history, opening hours and the best time to visit for travelers who want to explore Ben Thanh market.
Passionate traveler and content creator, I love exploring new destinations and sharing authentic experiences through insightful blog articles. With years of experience in travel content creation, I aim to inspire readers with practical tips and captivating stories.
Located in the heart of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh market is one of Vietnam’s most iconic landmarks. Known for its lively atmosphere, diverse goods and authentic street food, it has become a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers.
This blog highlights shopping tips, souvenirs to buy, local food to try, opening hours and the best time to visit. Start your cultural discovery with Hanoi Voyages and enjoy an unforgettable visit to Ben Thanh market.
Table of Contents
Where is Ben Thanh market located?
📍 Location: right in the center of District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
The market sits at the intersection of Le Loi, Ham Nghi, Tran Hung Dao and Le Lai streets, surrounded by restaurants, shops and attractions.
Located in such a prime area, the market is not only a convenient stop for shopping and dining but also a cultural landmark where travelers can feel the vibrant heartbeat of Saigon.
What to buy in Ben Thanh market
Wondering what to buy in Ben Thanh market? Here are some of the most popular items to take home:
Traditional textiles and clothing – ao dai fabrics, silk and embroidered items.
Handicrafts and souvenirs – lacquerware, bamboo products and handmade accessories.
Local snacks and specialties – dried fruits, coffee, tea and Vietnamese spices.
Jewelry and fashion accessories – from affordable trinkets to silver and gemstone pieces.
Street food and packaged treats – pho, banh xeo, spring rolls and sweets for food lovers.
These shopping highlights make the most out of your visit to the vibrant Ben Thanh market location in Ho Chi Minh City.
* Opening hours and practical information
Opening hours: Ben Thanh market opens daily from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. for the day market, while the night market runs from around 7:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Best time to visit: Morning (8:00–10:00 a.m.) for fresh produce and an authentic atmosphere; evening for street food and lively night shopping.
History and architecture of Ben Thanh Market
As one of the oldest and most iconic landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh market has a rich past and distinctive design that reflect both history and culture. In this section, we will look into the origin of the name “Ben Thanh Market,” trace its historical development and highlight the unique architectural features that make the market stand out.
Origin of the name "Ben Thanh Market"
The name originates from the Bat Quai Citadel, built in 1789 under the reign of Nguyen Vuong. At that time, a river quay called “Bến Thành” (citadel quay) served as an entry point for travelers and soldiers. The market formed nearby and naturally took on this name, becoming known as Ben Thanh Market.
History of Ben Thanh Market
The market began as a simple structure made of brick, wood and thatch near a busy river quay, serving as an early hub for Ben Thanh market shopping.
1859: Gia Dinh Citadel was attacked by Franco-Spanish forces and the market was destroyed by fire.
1860–1861: The French rebuilt the market further inland, with five sections mainly made of wood and thatch.
1870: A partial fire damaged the market; reconstruction followed with stronger materials such as brick columns and tiled roofs, except for one section covered with sheet metal.
1908: The Old Market was declared unsafe. A new site was chosen on marshland, bounded by the four streets that define its location today.
1912 – present: The current market was completed. Despite major renovations in 1985, the colonial architecture has largely been preserved, keeping alive the authentic spirit of Ben Thanh market shopping.
Architecture of Ben Thanh Market
Designed in a French colonial style, Ben Thanh Market architecture is marked by its imposing structure with four main gates and twelve secondary gates. The U-shaped stalls form a harmonious and orderly layout, making it a central hub for Ben Thanh market shopping. Each gate opens onto a different street and highlights specific goods:
South Gate: Located on Le Loi Street, facing Quach Thi Trang Park. Recognized by its iconic three-sided clock tower, this is the most famous gate, where visitors mainly find fabrics and dry goods.
East Gate: Facing Phan Boi Chau Street, called Viénot Street. A paradise for cosmetics, makeup and confectionery lovers.
West Gate: On Phan Chu Trinh Street, formerly Schroeder Street. Known for shoes, handicrafts and various of souvenirs.
North Gate: Facing Le Thanh Ton Street, once Spain Street. The best place to buy fresh flowers and tropical fruits.
Travel with Hanoi Voyages to Ben Thanh market in Ho Chi Minh and Vietnam’s top destinations for a perfect mix of nature, culture and authentic local experiences. Don’t wait anymore, CONTACT US NOW!
 |  |  |
Luxury, charm, ethnic cultures, rice fields and a cruise exploring Northern Vietnam plus 3 days sailing from Halong to Phu Quoc | Discover UNESCO sites and the stunning Pu Luong Reserve. Enjoy a diverse adventure that's perfect for all ages | Featuring a relaxing beach extension in Phu Quoc. Discover vibrant culture, stunning landscapes and serene shores |
In addition to our pre-designed tours, we can tailor-make trips that perfectly suit your needs. Don't wait any longer - get in touch with us now to plan an unforgettable journey with the best services just for you!
Where to eat at Ben Thanh Market?
At Ben Thanh Market in Saigon, visitors can enjoy a wide range of Vietnamese dishes like chè, chuối nếp nướng, bún riêu and bánh bèo at affordable prices. Depending on Ben Thanh Market’s opening hours, the atmosphere shifts from a bustling shopping hub during the day to a lively and cozy food haven in the evening.
Bánh bèo Huế Cô Ánh
It has been a local favorite for nearly 30 years. Known for its soft rice cakes topped with shrimp and fish sauce, the highlight is the bánh thập cẩm – a mix of bánh bèo, bánh bột lọc and bánh ít trần.
Address: At the West Gate of the market.
Hours: From 6:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Price: From 30,000 to 45,000 VND (~$1.2 - $1.8)
Bún riêu gánh Bà Liên
This place is renowned for its crab noodle soup, with a rich broth made from a family recipe dating back before 1975. Though slightly pricier than other stalls, its quality makes it a must-try.
Address: 163 Le Thanh Ton Street, District 1 (near the old East Gate).
Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Price: From 62,000 VND (~$2.4) per bowl.
Chè Bé
It has been open since 1968, making it one of the oldest dessert stalls in the market. It serves about ten varieties of southern chè (sweet desserts), freshly made each day, including chè đậu (bean), chè chuối (banana), chè bắp (corn) and bánh flan.
Address: Stands 1154–1130, Gate 7, in the food court.
Hours: 6:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Price: From 20,000 to 35,000 VND (~0.80 – 1.50 USD).
Bánh canh cháo lòng Dì Hương
It has been run by the third generation of the family for over 50 years. Famous for bánh canh (noodle soup) and cháo lòng (pork heart porridge), the dishes are cooked on a charcoal stove, giving them a distinctive flavor.
Address: Sidewalk opposite the East Gate of the market.
Opening hours: 7:00 p.m. – 3:00 a.m. (night market).
Price: From 55,000 VND (~2.20 USD).
Chè chuối nướng Phan Bội Châu
It is a small stall across from the market, well-known for its chè chuối nướng - grilled banana with tapioca and coconut milk. Tasty, quick to prepare and very affordable.
Address: 10 Phan Boi Chau Street, opposite the market.
Hours: 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Price: 25,000 VND (~1.00 USD).
Helpful advice for a successful visit to Ben Thanh Market
A few simple preparations will make your visit to Ben Thanh Market smoother and more enjoyable:
Best time to visit: Go in the morning for a calmer atmosphere and fresher produce, or in the evening to enjoy the lively night market.
Bargaining: Negotiation is expected, so don’t hesitate to bargain politely.
Safety: Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in crowded areas.
Bring cash: Most small stalls do not accept credit cards.
Top places to see nearby Ben Thanh Market
When you finish shopping at Ben Thanh Market, don’t rush off - the surrounding area is rich with cultural sites, cafes and restaurants worth a stop
 |  |
Ho Chi Minh Museum of Fine Arts Just a short walk away, showcasing an impressive collection of Vietnamese art. | Reunification Palace A historic landmark in Ho Chi Minh City symbolizing the end of the Vietnam War and Vietnam's reunification |
 |  |
Saigon Notre-Dame Cathedral A masterpiece built in the late 19th century, symbolizing the architectural and spiritual heart of Ho Chi Minh City. | Central Post Office A striking French-colonial building in Ho Chi Minh City, renowned for its grand architecture and historical charm. |
You can also refer: Top 7 destinations to explore in Ho Chi Minh City
A visit to Ben Thanh market in Ho Chi Minh City is more than just shopping - it’s a journey into local culture, flavors and daily life. From vibrant stalls and unique souvenirs to authentic street food and historic surroundings, the market remains an unmissable highlight of Saigon. Make your trip truly memorable with Hanoi Voyages.
Dream about your trip to Asia, in private
We are here to make it happen with youFREE QUOTE, WITHOUT OBLIGATION
FEATURED BLOG
RELATED TOURS
Read the next
Tu Le travel guide: What to see and experience
Set in the mountains of Yen Bai, Vietnam, Tu Le captivates visitors with its rice terraces and local charm. This Tu Le travel guide shares must-see attractions, unique activities, travel tips and the best ways to reach this beautiful destination. Let’s discover!
Can't find what you're looking for? No problem!!!!
It's not here but we can do it! Tell us what you want! And you will have it.