Ben Thanh Market: The Heartbeat of Ho Chi Minh City
Explore Ben Thanh Market, a cultural landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, offering local cuisine, unique handicrafts, and a vibrant shopping experience.
Ben Thanh Market stands as a vibrant centerpiece in the bustling heart of Ho Chi Minh City, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in a world of colors, flavors, and local culture. Established in the 17th century, this iconic market has evolved into a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers alike. As you stroll through its lively aisles, you'll encounter a plethora of stalls offering an array of fresh produce, traditional Vietnamese handicrafts, and mouthwatering street food. The atmosphere is electric, filled with the sounds of haggling vendors and the tantalizing aromas of local delicacies such as pho, banh mi, and various tropical fruits. Beyond just shopping, Ben Thanh Market serves as a cultural landmark that offers a glimpse into the daily life of the city’s residents. Each corner of the market reveals a piece of Vietnamese heritage, from the intricate designs of handmade souvenirs to the bustling food court where you can savor authentic local dishes. The market is also a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts, with its vibrant displays and traditional architecture providing a stunning backdrop. As the sun sets, the market transforms, with night stalls emerging to cater to evening shoppers. The lively ambiance and variety of offerings make it a perfect place to experience the essence of Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy or simply soak up the local culture, Ben Thanh Market promises an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of Vietnam.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy a quieter shopping experience and fresh produce.
- Bargaining is common, so don't hesitate to negotiate prices with vendors.
- Try the local street food available within the market for an authentic taste of Vietnam.
- Keep an eye on your belongings, as the market can get crowded.
- Bring cash in Vietnamese dong for easier transactions at smaller stalls.
A brief summary to Ben Thanh Market
- Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh, District 1, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, VN
Getting There
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Walking
If you are in District 3, the easiest way to reach Ben Thanh Market is to walk. Start by heading towards Tran Quoc Toan Street, heading southwest. Continue walking until you reach the intersection with Le Duan Street. Turn right onto Le Duan Street and continue walking until you reach the roundabout at Le Duan and Nam Ky Khoi Nghia. From there, proceed straight onto Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street. After a short walk, you will see Ben Thanh Market on your left, located at the intersection of Le Loi Street and Ham Nghi Street. The market is a well-known landmark, so it should be easy to spot.
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Cyclo
For a more local experience, consider taking a cyclo (a three-wheeled bicycle taxi). You can find cyclo drivers commonly around parks or tourist areas in District 3. Simply tell the driver you would like to go to 'Ben Thanh Market in District 1'. The ride will take approximately 15-20 minutes depending on traffic, and you should expect to pay around 30,000 to 50,000 VND. Be sure to negotiate the price beforehand.
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Public Bus
If you prefer public transportation, you can take Bus number 65 from the bus stop at Pham Ngoc Thach Street. Board the bus heading towards Ben Thanh Market. The bus ride will take about 15-20 minutes. Be sure to have some small denominations of VND ready to pay the fare, which should be around 7,000 VND. Once you arrive at the Ben Thanh Market stop, simply get off and you will find the market right in front of you.
Attractions Nearby to Ben Thanh Market
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Cửa Tây
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Chợ Bến Thành
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B/S Art Studio
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Nguyen An Ninh Night Market
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Mariamman Hindu temple
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French Style Architecture Street
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Ho Chi Minh City Museum of Fine Arts
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L'Usine Saigon Centre
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Phố Đồ Cổ Lê Công Kiều
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Café Terrace
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THE ONE HOTEL BEN THANH
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M.O.M Cooking Class in Saigon
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Museum of Ho Chi Minh City
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Ho Chi Minh City Museum
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Bach Tung Diep Park
Landmarks nearby to Ben Thanh Market
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Saigon Centre
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Nguyễn Văn Hảo building
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Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee
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Trụ sở Hội đồng nhân dân thành phố Hồ Chí Minh
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Phạm Ngũ Lão
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Di tích mộ cổ họ Lâm
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The Original Vespa Adventures
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Mother Mary Statue
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Jamia Al-Musulman Masjid - Saigon Central Masjid, Vietnam جامع مسجد المسلمین
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Park Hyatt Saigon
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Lighthouse Monument
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Diamond Plaza
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BOARC Gallery
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Nhà thờ Huyện Sỹ
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Thích Quảng Đức Monument