Background

Ben Thanh Market: The Heartbeat of Ho Chi Minh City

Discover the vibrant Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, a cultural landmark filled with local delicacies, souvenirs, and an immersive Vietnamese shopping experience.

4

Explore the vibrant Ben Thanh Market, a cultural landmark in Ho Chi Minh City where the sights, sounds, and tastes of Vietnam come alive. With a rich history and an array of goods, this bustling market is a must-visit for every traveler.

A brief summary to Ben Thanh Market

  • Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh, District 1, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, VN

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to experience the market at its busiest and see fresh produce being sold.
  • Practice your bargaining skills; haggling is expected and can lead to better prices.
  • Don’t miss trying the street food stalls for authentic Vietnamese dishes, especially pho and banh mi.
  • Bring cash in local currency to make transactions easier, as not all vendors accept credit cards.
  • Explore the surrounding area for more shops and local attractions after visiting the market.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Walking

    If you're in the Binh Thanh District, you can enjoy a pleasant walk to Ben Thanh Market. Head southeast on Nguyen Huu Canh Street until you reach the junction with Dien Bien Phu Street. Cross the street and continue straight onto Le Duan Street. Follow Le Duan until you reach the intersection with Le Thi Hong Gam Street, then turn left. Continue straight, and you will see Ben Thanh Market on your right. This walk should take approximately 30-40 minutes, depending on your pace.

  • Bicycle

    For a quicker option, you can rent a bicycle. Many local shops in Binh Thanh District offer bicycle rentals. Start by heading southeast on Nguyen Huu Canh Street, then turn right onto Dien Bien Phu Street and follow this road until you reach Le Duan Street. Turn left on Le Duan and continue until you hit the intersection with Le Thi Hong Gam Street, where you will turn left again. Ben Thanh Market will be on your right after a short ride. The cycling route should take around 15-20 minutes.

  • Public Bus

    You can take a public bus to reach Ben Thanh Market. Look for bus route 36 or 150, which operates from various points in Binh Thanh District. Board the bus and pay a fare of around 7,000 VND to 10,000 VND (approximately $0.30 to $0.40). Get off at the bus stop near Ben Thanh Market, which is located on Le Loi Street in District 1. The bus ride will take about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

  • Grab (Ride-Hailing Service)

    If you prefer a more comfortable option, you can use the Grab app to book a motorcycle or car ride. Open the app, set your pickup location in Binh Thanh District, and enter 'Ben Thanh Market' as your destination. The cost will vary based on the time of day and demand, but expect to pay around 25,000 VND to 50,000 VND (approximately $1 to $2). The ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes, depending on traffic.

Unlock the Best of Ben Thanh Market

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market stands as a vibrant cultural landmark in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in the bustling atmosphere of Vietnam. This iconic market is not just a shopping destination; it is a sensory experience where the aromas of street food mingle with the colorful displays of textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Originally established in the 17th century, the market has evolved into a symbol of local commerce, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the city. Visitors can wander through its maze of stalls, discovering everything from traditional Vietnamese ao dai garments to handcrafted lacquerware and local spices. As you navigate the market's lively alleys, don't miss the chance to sample a variety of authentic Vietnamese dishes. From steaming bowls of pho to freshly made banh mi, the food stalls offer an array of culinary delights that showcase the rich flavors of the region. The market is also an excellent place to practice your bargaining skills, as haggling is part of the shopping culture. Friendly vendors often engage with tourists, making the shopping experience both enjoyable and interactive. Aside from shopping and dining, Ben Thanh Market serves as a cultural hub where visitors can observe local life. The market is especially vibrant in the early morning, with vendors setting up their stalls and locals coming to shop for fresh produce. Visiting at this time allows you to witness the market in its full glory, bustling with energy and life. As the day progresses, the market transforms into a lively gathering place for tourists and locals alike, making it an essential stop for anyone wishing to experience the essence of Ho Chi Minh City.

Popular Experiences near Ben Thanh Market

Popular Hotels near Ben Thanh Market

Select Currency