Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is not only a large market in the centre of Saigon, it is considered a symbol of the city. The market is one of the few structures dating back to the early 1900s which has survived. The market was heavily bombed during WWII, but was given new life in the fifties.

Ben Thanh enjoys a prime position in the city, unrivalled by any other market. It is situated on an area of more than 13,000 square metres, with four main gates and 12 side gates. The main gates are labelled according to their position – north, east, south and west.

The market encompasses around 1,500 stalls arranged in a complicated layout. You can find almost everything at the market, including more than 100 dishes from around Vietnam. Most vendors can speak English, and some can speak a variety of languages including French, Chinese, Japanese and Korean.

The market receives around 15,000 visitors each day, many of which are tourists. Japanese travellers make up the majority of the foreign tourists. Not everyone visits the market with shopping in mind; many visit out of curiosity. The market has a lively atmosphere and is sometimes chaotic; however, it is well worth a visit.

Although all goods have a price tag, the figures are usually negotiable. Vendors are required to show a price, but shoppers should bargain to get a better deal. The market is well equipped with fire safety equipment and a 40 strong team of security guards patrol the market, in order to keep shoppers safe from theft.