Officially opened in 1859 and was rebuilt after a major fire in 1870. The Ben Thanh market, or Cho, as it is commonly known, has become a symbol of Saigon. The area was once a swamp called Marais Boresse, which was later filled in by the French. The Southside, or the front, was known as Place Cuniac, while the North, East, and West were Rue d’Espagne and rue Vienot, respectively. Fast forward 150 years and Ben Thanh Market is still the most famous shopping area in ho chi Minh Vietnam. This is even more so for those who are not Vietnamese.
Where Is Ben Thanh Market?
Ben Thanh market serves most tourists. It is therefore expected that market prices will be between 10-20% more than local shops. It is located approximately 30 minutes from Tan Son Nhat International Airport. This place is a must-see for anyone visiting Ho Chi Minh City. It is centrally located in District 1, where the majority of tourists will congregate. It is close to hundreds of restaurants and hotels, as well as other amenities like tailors, massage parlors, and beauty salons. This makes it a popular spot for first-time visitors. The day market in Ben Thanh is open from 6 pm to 8 pm in the evening. The night market is open from 7 pm to 10 pm. You can find a Google map showing the location of Ben Thanh Market. For our Muslim friends, you can also find the famous Malaysian street with all the Halal eateries and baju kurung tailors.
Are You Looking for the Best Deals at Ben Thanh Market?
You will be greeted immediately as you enter the grand clock tower’s main entrance by a maze filled with stalls selling everything from souvenirs and apparel to unique local foods and kitchenware. Now it’s time for you to test your bargaining skills and have a blast. You can get prices as low as 70% below the original price, so if you don’t receive a minimum of 40% off, feel free to walk out. You will be able to get a great deal if you are there at the beginning of their opening hours and right before they close. You will generally find a more friendly stall owner here than at other shops. As long as you don’t get too aggressive, you can probably find something you like for a reasonable price.
What Are Some of the Best Things You Can Buy in Ben Thanh?
This is the perfect place to shop for a first-time tourist to Vietnam and Ben Thanh Market. These are the most sought-after items, including bags and handicrafts. You should not pay more than VND150,000 (approx. Handicrafts are priced at 8 USD, regardless of how beautiful the stall owners claim the pieces to be. Prices for T-shirts and other apparel start at VND50,000. You won’t be surprised to find a Polo Ralph Lauren or Valentino T-shirt for as low as 10 USD. Bags are also a great deal, but you must be careful. The quality of apparel made in Vietnam is generally higher than those found elsewhere.
Ben Thanh market is a great place to find traditional food, drinks, and snacks. Banh Beo, a traditional Vietnamese dish made of rice, is the most popular food. Bun suong, a type of noodles that is extremely popular on the market, is another option. There are 5-8 stalls that sell Pho in the market if you want to try Vietnam’s national dish. Most stalls have the same prices so there won’t be many variations in price.
This is the best place to shop for souvenirs to give to family and friends. Here are our top 10 gifts to buy at Ben Thanh Market:
- Coffee powder – The 2nd largest importer of coffee powder in the world
- Cashew nuts are significantly less expensive
- Sunflower seeds – As above
- Silk – Scarves, wallets, purses, and nightwear made from well-known Vietnamese silk
- Lacquerware is a miniature vase made from lacquer, inspired by French heritage.
- Bamboo products: baskets, mats, and tablecloths made from bamboo that are eco-friendly and handcrafted
- Artwork – Affordable and World Renowned
- Conical hat from Vietnam – Because it’s fascinating to see a foreigner wear one
- Rice paper can be eaten like a burrito.
- Tea is slowly becoming more popular than its caffeine-infused cousin but it’s still not as well-known.
- Many shops have opened recently just outside Ben Thanh market selling the same products. These shops may be worth a visit for their prices and variety.
Is It Possible to Buy X-Stock on the Ben Thanh Stock Exchange?
Rumors abound that x-stock, which is reclaimed stock from well-known brands, maybe being sold at this market. Many brands like Converse, Nike, Adidas, and others are made in Vietnam. There is a huge difference between x stock and products made from siphoned materials. The latter is almost impossible to control because there is no quality control. It would require an expert eye to see if the goods are genuine rejects or fakes. Many customers are happy with their purchases considering they cost only 10% of what you would pay in-store.
How to Save Money in Ben Thanh Market?
The rule of thumb is to always bargain at least 50% and not settle for less than 30%. COOP Mart Corporation also owns the rear of the market. They sell everything from souvenirs to clothes at a fixed price. This area is not open to price negotiations for bargaining enthusiasts. While you may be able to grab a great deal, make sure to check out the other locations first. You may also want to transact in VND rather than USD. It is impossible to imagine that these stall owners would be able to use a forex calculator. Most likely, the amount you were quoted is rounded to the north.
Additional Things to Consider When Shopping at Ben Thanh Market
Keep an eye on your valuables. Petty thieves have the best chance to take your valuables. People may approach you while you’re walking around Ben Thanh market selling everything from watches to sunglasses to coconuts. These guys may not be the most professional, but they might offer you a few dollars more. Avoid touts who offer Cyclo rides. These rides could run you as high as 100usd per 10 minutes. You can ride on a Cyclo if you want to. We would like to mention that the currency exchange rates at the Ben Thanh market in Ho Chi Minh are some of the best in the city.
Have a great time shopping
