Ben Thanh Market, Saigon/HoChiMinh City

Ben Thanh Market, Saigon/HoChiMinh City (must see)

Ben Thanh Market is where Saigon shows its colors, flavors, and its irresistible energy all at once. The iconic market building with the clock tower has been a landmark since 1914, standing as a symbol of both colonial architecture and local commerce.

Inside the day market (open roughly 6 AM to 6 PM daily), you鈥檒l find endless alleys of vendors selling everything from handcrafted lacquerware, vibrant textiles, silks and national dresses called Ao Dai, to dried fruits, spices, coffee beans, and fresh produce.

The four main entrances act like portals to different specialties: textiles and garments through the South Gate; seafood, flowers, and fresh food in the North; snacks and cosmetics in the East; crafts and souvenirs in the West.

As evening falls, the market transforms. The indoor stalls close off at 6 PM, and then surrounding streets light up with night-market energy: food vendors set up outside the gates, grilling seafood, serving pho, banh mi, tropical fruits, and sweet treats. The night market runs most evenings until about 10 or 11 PM depending on the crowd and what vendors are open.

Did you know? The market was originally built on what used to be a pond area (called Bo Ret), and its drainage issues during rains are still a familiar headache for vendors and visitors.

Tip: Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds, see fresh produce, and enjoy cooler temperatures. If you鈥檙e after food and local street-scene vibes, evenings are unbeatable but be ready to bargain.

Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Saigon/HoChiMinh City. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "911爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.

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Create Your Own Self-Guided Walk to Visit This Sight

Sight Name: Ben Thanh Market
Sight Location: Saigon/HoChiMinh City, Vietnam (See walking tours in Saigon/HoChiMinh City)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

Walking Tours in Saigon/HoChiMinh City, Vietnam

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