Ben Thanh Market Tours and Activities

Ben Thanh Market featuring shopping and markets
Ben Thanh Market featuring food and markets
Ben Thanh Market featuring food and markets
Ben Thanh Market featuring food and markets
Ben Thanh Market featuring markets and interior views


No trip to Ho Chi Minh City is complete without exploring this bustling market where you can enjoy a traditional Vietnamese dish or purchase souvenirs.

Bến Thành Market is the oldest surviving market in Ho Chi Minh City and one of Vietnam’s top destinations. It is a must-see for anyone visiting this 300-year-old city. Explore the colourful stalls and buy food, souvenirs and clothing from the local vendors.

The market began in the early 17th century as an informal gathering of street vendors near the Saigon River. In 1870, the French colonialists formally established it as Les Halles Centrales (the central market). It was moved to a new building in 1912 and renamed Bến Thành Market.

Wander through the stalls, where you can browse through a huge range of Vietnamese goods. Whether you are looking for a kitschy souvenir or traditional clothing, you will find it here. However, the market is not just for tourists. Residents of Ho Chi Minh City do their daily shopping here, so Bến Thành Market offers visitors a peek into local tastes and customs.

Bến Thành Market is also the perfect place to enjoy an authentic taste of Vietnam. Stop by a food stall for a local specialty, such as deep fried whole fish, or a refreshing tea.

Haggling is a major part of the shopping experience in Vietnam and a necessity, as vendors initially charge inflated prices. For the best shopping experience, come to Bến Thành Market ready to bargain. 

Bến Thành Market is located in District 1, the central urban hub of Ho Chi Minh City. The iconic clock tower that rises above the market makes it impossible to miss. The area is always pulsing with pedestrian and vehicle traffic, so watch your step as you cross to the market. Bến Thành Market is open every day. Although the main market closes around dinnertime, the Ben Thanh Night Market stays open later.

Plan a trip to see Ben Thanh Market

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Top Ben Thanh Market Hotel & Accommodation Deals

Hotel Majestic Saigon

Hotel Majestic Saigon

5 out of 5
01 Dong Khoi Street District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotel Majestic Saigon
The Reverie Saigon

The Reverie Saigon

5 out of 5
22 - 36 Nguyen Hue Boulevard, 57 - 69F Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
The Reverie Saigon
Au Lac Charner Hotel

Au Lac Charner Hotel

4 out of 5
87-89-91 Ho Tung Mau Street, Ben Nghe Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Au Lac Charner Hotel
New World Saigon Hotel

New World Saigon Hotel

5 out of 5
76 Le Lai Street, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
New World Saigon Hotel
Hotel Grand Saigon

Hotel Grand Saigon

5 out of 5
8 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotel Grand Saigon
California Saigon Hotel & Rooftop Pool

California Saigon Hotel & Rooftop Pool

3.5 out of 5
52 Thu Khoa Huan, Ho Chi Minh City
California Saigon Hotel & Rooftop Pool
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint

Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint

4 out of 5
59 - 61 Pasteur Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint
Rex Hotel

Rex Hotel

5 out of 5
141 Nguyen Hue Blvd, Ho Chi Minh City
Rex Hotel
Caravelle Saigon

Caravelle Saigon

5 out of 5
19 - 23 Lam Son Square, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Caravelle Saigon
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Ben Thanh Market

At Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, immerse yourself in a vibrant shopping experience, where you can find everything from local handicrafts to delicious street food. Don’t miss the lively night market for a different atmosphere and unique finds. Consider a day trip to explore nearby attractions and discover amazing spots that showcase the rich culture and history of Vietnam. It's a must-visit destination for any tourist!

Shopping

At Ben Thanh Market, you can shop for unique souvenirs and local crafts. The nearest spot is Saigon Square, just 161m away, offering a mix of business and entertainment vibes. If you're up for a drive, head to Dong Khoi Street, 644m away, for more shopping options.

Recreation

Experience the winter wonderland at Snow Town Saigon, where you can enjoy snow activities and a relaxing atmosphere, just 6.4km from Ben Thanh Market. For golf enthusiasts, Vietnam Golf and Country Club, located 17.7km away, offers excellent outdoor sports vibes amidst lush greenery.

Adventure

Experience the thrill at Dam Sen Water Park, located 6.4km from Ben Thanh Market, with exhilarating water slides and fun for the whole family. Alternatively, head to Suoi Tien Amusement Park, 14.5km away, to enjoy exciting rides and a unique cultural experience in a vibrant setting.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Ben Thanh Market is vibrant and diverse. Catch a flick at Galaxy Nguyen Du, a family-friendly cinema just 483m away, or enjoy a cultural performance at Hoa Binh Theater, located 3.2km away. For some fun, try your luck at PowerBowl, 805m from the market.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City offers a vibrant mix of culture and family-friendly experiences, with attractions including bustling streets and impressive skyscrapers. Visitors can explore the local piazza and immerse themselves in the rich atmosphere of the market. Don't miss the chance to delve into the various stalls and enjoy nearby points of interest, making your time at Ben Thanh a delightful adventure.

  • Bui Vien Walking Street: Experience the vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere of Bui Vien Walking Street, just 805m from Ben Thanh Market. This lively street is filled with bars, street food vendors, and lively entertainment, making it the perfect spot for a night out.
  • Ho Chi Minh City Opera House: Located 644m away, the Ho Chi Minh City Opera House showcases stunning French colonial architecture. Enjoy a romantic night of culture and entertainment with world-class performances in an elegant setting.
  • War Remnants Museum: Situated 966m from Ben Thanh Market, the War Remnants Museum offers a poignant look into Vietnam's history. With powerful exhibitions, it's an essential visit for those wanting to understand the nation's past and its cultural significance.

Best time to go to Ben Thanh Market

The best time to visit Ben Thanh Market is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. April is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. December is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January80.4°F (26.9°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
February82.0°F (27.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverageAverage
March84.4°F (29.1°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
April85.5°F (29.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May85.1°F (29.5°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
June82.8°F (28.2°C)Moderate RainMostly CloudySlightly LowSlightly Low
July81.3°F (27.4°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudySlightly LowAverage
August81.7°F (27.6°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
September81.0°F (27.2°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageSlightly Low
October80.6°F (27.0°C)Frequent RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
November80.4°F (26.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
December79.9°F (26.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Ben Thanh Market

When planning your trip to Ben Thanh Market, consider visiting during the cheaper months of May to June or September for lower accommodation rates. Saturday stays are typically the most affordable, while Wednesdays tend to be pricier. Book your hotel about a month in advance, and explore last-minute deals on sites like Expedia. Use their filters to find budget-friendly options, including Eco-certified hotels. For transport, utilise the local public transport system, which is cost-effective, and look for free activities to make the most of your visit without breaking the bank.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Ben Thanh Market are May to June and September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and December to January, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Ben Thanh Market is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Ben Thanh Market is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Ben Thanh Market is Wednesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you choose your budget, preferred location, and additional options. You can easily sort your results from the lowest to highest prices, ensuring you find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you have the option to filter your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will display sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some cash by putting together a package that includes your hotel stay near Ben Thanh Market along with your flights and activities through Expedia.