Ben Thanh Market is an iconic symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. It boasts a rich blend of history, culture, and commerce that can be discovered through its diverse array of stalls and shops. This article will cover everything you need to know about this vibrant market.
Where is Ben Thanh Market?
As one of the most popular markets in Viet Nam, Ben Thanh Market embraces rich culture and a vibrant atmosphere.
- Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: 4 am – 7 pm
Why is Ben Thanh Market famous?
Located in the central area of Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the vibrant culture of Vietnam. More than just a place to shop, the market also offers opportunities for cultural and culinary exploration. From early morning until late at night, the market brims with vendors selling fresh vegetables, meat, seafood, and a variety of Vietnamese street food. Visitors can try many authentic dishes such as pho, banh mi, spring rolls, or shop for traditional items such as ao dai, lacquerware, and silk.
After over 100 years since its establishment, Ben Thanh Market has become not only a trading hub but also a witness to the many ups and downs of Saigon. Whether you are looking for a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage, a taste of the local cuisine, or an insight into the daily life of Vietnamese people, the market can meet all your needs.
- Maybe you are interested in featured tours in Ho Chi Minh City, such as Saigon Tour Package 6 Days, Ho Chi Minh Tour Package 5 Days, Ho Chi Minh Muslim Tour 5 Days, South Vietnam Tour 5 Days.
History of Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market was originally built in the 17th century near Ben Nghe River to welcome visitors and soldiers into Gia Dinh Citadel. That is also why it was called Ben Thanh, as “ben” means “river wharf” and “thanh” means “citadel.” The market was made from bricks, wood, and thatched roofs. After being used for decades, around 1911, the market became unstable and was in danger of collapse.
To avoid this, French imperialists built a new market in Bo Ret area (or Marais Boresse area), which is now the current location of Ben Thanh Market. Construction began in 1912 and was completed in 1914. Since then, the market has undergone many renovations. Still, its exterior structure and clock tower have been preserved.
Architecture of Ben Thanh Market
The market has 4 main entrances and 12 sub-entrances. Each main entrance is located on a different street and displays many popular items for visitors to shop:
- Ben Thanh Market – South Entrance: Located on Le Loi Street and facing Quach Thi Trang Park, this entrance is the main gate of the market. It features a famous 3-faced clock tower as the highlight of the market. This entrance attracts many tourists with an array of stalls selling a variety of goods, from colorful fabrics to aromatic dried foods.
- Ben Thanh Market – East Entrance: Located on Phan Boi Chau Street, the east entrance is a paradise for cosmetic enthusiasts, with many cosmetic stalls offering a vast range of body, skin, and hair care products.
- Ben Thanh Market – West Entrance: Located on Phan Chu Trinh Street, this entrance has many stalls selling shoes, handmade crafts, and souvenirs.
- Ben Thanh Market – North Entrance: Located on Le Thanh Tong Street, this entrance offers a variety of fresh flowers and tropical fruits.
Things to do at Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market Ho Chi Minh Vietnam is known for its rich history, bustling atmosphere, and diverse goods. Below is a list of the top 3 things to do when visiting this market:
Explore the symbolic architecture of the market
Ben Thanh Market boasts a unique architectural style, which is a blend of Indochinese and French influences. It is a rectangular building with a notable clock tower in the front, a wooden vaulted ceiling, and open sides. Despite the many renovations, the exterior and clock tower of the market are still preserved, inviting visitors to discover a bygone era with every step they take.
Enjoy delectable Ben Thanh Market food
For those who enjoy Vietnamese cuisine, the spacious dining area in Ben Thanh is a must-visit. This culinary destination features a diverse array of dishes from every region of Vietnam, drawing in both domestic and foreign visitors. Some prominent dishes at Ben Thanh Market Saigon include Vietnamese pancakes, avocado ice cream, Vietnamese noodles with grilled pork, grilled spring rolls, vermicelli with snails, and grilled meat skewers, all of which offer a rich explosion of flavors to satisfy your appetite.
Buy Ben Thanh Market souvenirs for your beloved
Apart from Ben Thanh Market food, this market is also a haven for souvenir hunters. With numerous shops selling various souvenirs, visitors can easily find unique items to bring back home as gifts for their loved ones. From traditional Vietnamese hats, silk scarves, clothing to wooden handicrafts, lacquerware, and ceramics, there is an endless array of gift options for you to choose from. If you are a fan of the local culture, don’t miss out on some colorful conical hats or intricately embroidered Ao Dai dresses. Other popular souvenirs here include coffee beans, tea leaves, and various local spices.
Ben Thanh Market Map
How to get to Ben Thanh Market?
The market’s prime location in District 1 makes it easily accessible from any part of the city. There are several means of transportation that you can choose from to get here:
- By bus: Take buses number 03, 04, 152, 19, 20, 39, 53, 93, or 96, which all have a stop near the market and are only a short walk away
- By personal vehicle: If you have a car or motorbike, there are parking areas near the market with parking fees ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 VND
- By taxi: If you prefer a convenient way to explore Ben Thanh Market without the need to worry about parking, opting for a taxi is an excellent choice. In particular, consider choosing XANH SM Taxi.
For tourists who want to visit the Ben Thanh Market with private services, you can book a private tour from Vietnam Shore Excursions. Professional and knowledgeable tour guides will share profoundly many interesting stories about this place and Ho Chi Minh City, as well as the local life of local people during the tour. Here are some Ho Chi Minh Tours which customers can find out and book for you and your group.
- Ho Chi Minh City Shore Excursions
- Ho Chi Minh City Tour
- Ho Chi Minh Half Day Tour
- Ho Chi Minh Cu Chi Tunnels Tour
- Ho Chi Minh City Jeep Tour
When is the best time to visit Ben Thanh Market?
If you want to shop around, the best time to visit the market is between 7:30 am and 6 pm. If you want to enjoy the bustling atmosphere of numerous food stalls on Phan Boi Chau Street next to the market, come after 7 pm. Note that the market is quite spacious and has lots of stalls, so it may take you 1-2 hours to explore thoroughly.
Guides before visiting Ben Thanh Market
Below are some additional recommendations for you to have a fulfilling experience at this iconic market:
- Bargain for a better price: Most of the vendors in the market expect you to bargain for a better price, so do not be shy
- Bring cash: While some vendors may accept credit cards, it is best to bring cash as it is more widely accepted
- Wear comfortable shoes: The market can be quite large, so you should wear comfortable shoes to conveniently walk around
- Mind your belongings: As in any other crowded area, beware of pickpockets. Keep an eye on your belongings and refrain from bringing valuables
- Explore the surrounding area and other tourist attractions in Ho Chi Minh City: There are many other attractions in the area, such as Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, Cu Chi Tunnels, Jade Emperor Pagoda, Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Central Post Office, Bui Vien Walking Street, etc. You should take some time to explore them as well.
Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit destination in Ho Chi Minh City for those who want to experience the bustling atmosphere of a traditional Vietnamese market. Whether you are looking for traditional handicrafts, delicious street food, or a lively shopping experience, this market has something for everyone. Therefore, don’t forget to include a visit to Ben Thanh Market in your itinerary!
