Shop Ben Thanh Market and night markets
Visit the iconic Ben Thanh Market for daytime shopping, street food and local life, then experience Ho Chi Minh City's vibrant night markets — lively stalls, local eats and bargain shopping in the evenings. This combined experience is great for shopping, tasting Vietnamese street food and soaking up the city atmosphere.
Location
Ben Thanh Market (central) and various night market areas (Ben Thanh Night Market, Bui Vien/Pham Ngu Lao area, weekend markets in District 1 and Cho Lon), Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Duration
2–4 hours for Ben Thanh Market (daytime); 2–5 hours for an evening/night market crawl depending on how many areas you visit.
Best Time to Visit
Ben Thanh Market: early morning to late afternoon (7:00–17:00). Night markets: evening to late night (18:00–23:30). Weekends and holidays are busiest; go on weekdays for a slightly calmer experience.
Pricing
Entry: Free. Typical spending: souvenirs $1–$30 (small souvenirs $1–$10; clothing $5–$30), street food/snacks $0.50–$5 per item, casual meals $3–$15. Expect to pay more in touristy stalls; bargaining can reduce prices by 20–50% on non-food items. Credit cards accepted at some indoor shops; bring cash (VND) for street stalls.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Ben Thanh Market — iconic central market with fresh produce, handicrafts, textiles and prepared food stalls.
Ben Thanh Night Market — evening stalls set up around the market selling souvenirs, clothing and street food.
Bui Vien / Pham Ngu Lao area — backpacker nightlife, street-food stalls and open-air shopping.
Cholon (Binh Tay vicinity) — Chinatown markets with bulk goods, herbs and local eats (best for daytime but some evening activity).
Street food highlights: bánh mì, phở, gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls), seafood skewers, Vietnamese coffee and tropical fruit.
Great photo opportunities and lively street scenes after dark.
Itinerary
Arrive at Ben Thanh Market
Start with indoor stalls for textiles, coffee, lacquerware and souvenirs. This is a good time to compare prices and ask vendors about quality.
Food court and snack tasting
Try local dishes such as bánh mì, phở, bánh xèo and fresh fruit. Prefer stalls with steady local customers for better hygiene.
Return after sunset — Ben Thanh Night Market opens
Stalls set up along the streets surrounding the market. This is ideal for bargain clothing, accessories and inexpensive souvenirs.
Walk to Bui Vien / Pham Ngu Lao area
Enjoy a different night-market vibe — more nightlife, bars and street food. Good for late-night snacks and people-watching.
Optional visit to weekend markets or Cholon (if it's weekend)
On weekends, special market streets or expanded stalls appear — expect larger crowds and more variety.
Wrap up and return
Use a reputable taxi or ride-hailing app (Grab) to return to your hotel. Avoid unmetered rides late at night.
Safety Requirements
Watch your belongings closely — busy markets attract pickpockets; use a zipped bag or money belt.
Be cautious when crossing streets and walking near busy traffic; sidewalks can be crowded or occupied by stalls.
Check food hygiene — eat from busy stalls where food is freshly prepared and turnover is high.
Agree final prices before buying and be polite when bargaining to avoid misunderstandings.
Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps (Grab) after dark; avoid unmarked vehicles.
Tips
Bring small-denomination Vietnamese Dong (VND) for easier purchases; many stalls don’t accept cards.
Bargain respectfully: start at about 40–60% of the asking price and meet in the middle; avoid haggling on food prices.
Try local specialties: bánh mì, pho, fresh spring rolls and Vietnamese coffee. Look for stalls with long local lines.
Wear comfortable shoes — expect a lot of walking and uneven pavement near stalls.
Keep a reusable bag for purchases and be prepared for humidity and occasional rain; pack a compact umbrella if visiting during rainy season (May–October).
If buying electronics or branded goods, be careful — counterfeits are common. Check items before purchase and get receipts from reputable stores.
