Explore Ben Thanh Market: The ancient market has become a symbol of Saigon

Ben Thanh Market is one of the most famous destinations in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, tourists must definitely stop by Ben Thanh Market, as it is not only a place to shop for local products but also an exciting cultural experience. Traveling to Ben Thanh Market not only helps visitors understand more about the history and culture of Saigon but also provides many experiences and opportunities to explore the city’s unique culinary culture. Visitors can shop for quality goods at reasonable prices, learn about and admire the distinctive architecture of Ho Chi Minh City, and connect and interact with the local people. In this article, we will explore Ben Thanh Market and the fascinating aspects surrounding this iconic location

Introduction to Ben Thanh Market

Where is Ben Thanh Market Located?

• Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market is situated in the heart of District 1, one of the busiest and most vibrant areas of Saigon. Its central location places it near several famous attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, such as the Independence Palace, the Central Post Office, and the Municipal Theatre. Additionally, its proximity to numerous luxury 5-star hotels makes Ben Thanh Market a popular destination for tourists.

Operating Hours of Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM. However, after 7:00 PM, the Ben Thanh Night Market comes alive, bustling with energy and vibrancy.

There are two ideal timeframes for visiting Ben Thanh Market:

• 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM: Perfect for those looking to explore and shop within the market.
• After 7:00 PM: Ideal for visitors who enjoy the lively, colorful atmosphere of the night market.

With its vast area and thousands of stalls closely packed together, it can take up to two hours to fully explore the market. Plan your visit wisely to ensure a complete and enjoyable experience.

Layout of Ben Thanh Market Stalls

Ben Thanh Market is designed with four main entrances, each facing bustling streets. These entrances are strategically arranged with a variety of stalls, making it easy for visitors to explore and shop.

• South Gate: Facing Le Loi Street and Quach Thi Trang Square, this entrance features stalls selling fabrics, clothing, and dried food. Notably, the South Gate is the main facade of the market, adorned with a striking clock tower that has remained unchanged since its construction, making it a popular spot for tourist photos.
• North Gate: Facing Le Thanh Ton Street, this entrance is home to stalls offering fresh produce and beautifully displayed fruits.
• East Gate: Located on Phan Boi Chau Street, this entrance is a paradise for sweet tooths and beauty enthusiasts, with numerous stalls selling a variety of cosmetics and confectionery.
• West Gate: Facing Phan Chu Trinh Street, this area is dedicated to handicrafts, souvenirs, and footwear, ideal for visitors looking for unique gifts for family and friends.

In addition to the four main gates, Ben Thanh Market also features 12 secondary entrances branching out in all directions, providing convenient access to its diverse offerings.

The Best Time to Visit Ben Thanh Market

Saigon experiences two distinct seasons:

• Rainy season: May to November, with cooler temperatures but frequent afternoon showers. Mornings are better for visiting to avoid sudden rain.
• Dry season: December to April, offering dry weather that is more convenient for traveling and photography.

To make the most of your visit to Saigon and Ben Thanh Market, consider going during the dry season for better mobility and stunning check-in photos. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a jacket, and an umbrella to stay protected from the sun and maintain your skin tone!

History of Ben Thanh Market

The Old Ben Thanh Market (Before 1911):  The origins of Ben Thanh Market date back to before the French colonization of Gia Dinh. Initially, the market was located on the banks of the Ben Nghe River, near a riverside dock close to the Gia Dinh Citadel. This bustling trading hub was a lively gathering place, featuring a ferry terminal that brought merchants from the sea inland, creating a thriving marketplace filled with a wide variety of goods. Along the riverbank, boats and ships of all sizes docked, forming a continuous chain of commerce.

However, following the French occupation of Gia Dinh, Ben Thanh Market was burned down. It took a year for the market to be rebuilt, and it was restored at the same location, continuing its legacy as a vital center of trade and culture.

The New Ben Thanh Market (1912–Present): After many years of use, the old Ben Thanh Market fell into severe disrepair, with its stalls deteriorating and at risk of collapsing at any moment. To address this, the French authorities selected a new location to build a larger market that could accommodate the growing demand for trade.

The chosen site for the new market was a former swamp known as Bo Ret Pond, which the French filled in to prepare for construction. In 1912, the market was built by the French contractor Brossard et Maupin, and the construction process took two years to complete.

Despite undergoing numerous renovations and repairs over the years, the original architectural features of the market have been preserved, maintaining its historic charm and significance.

Construction Process and the Name of Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market was established before the French arrived in the region. Initially, the market was located along the Ben Nghe River, near a dock close to Quý Citadel (later Gia Dinh Citadel), which gave the market its name, Ben Thanh.

In 1911, the French colonial authorities decided to relocate the market to its current site, which was then a murky pond.

Construction of the old Ben Thanh Market began in 1912 and was completed by late March 1914. The market has been in continuous operation ever since.

Because of its location by the Ben Nghe River, the dock served as a transportation hub for visitors and soldiers entering the citadel, which is how the market came to be called Ben Thanh Market.

Ben Thanh Market Travel: Where to Go, What to Eat?

Exploring the Architecture of Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market, built in a traditional “house-lung” style, covers an area of 13,056m² and is one of Saigon’s most iconic landmarks. Over the years, the market has undergone various renovations, yet it still retains its historic charm, especially the three-faced clock tower at the South Gate. This clock tower, designed in French architectural style, features the words “Chợ Bến Thành” (Ben Thanh Market) beneath it. The clock tower has become a popular photo spot for many visitors, making it one of the most photographed locations in the market.

Where to Go and What to Buy at Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is considered one of the largest retail markets in Saigon, offering a wide variety of products, from everyday items to luxury goods, from cosmetics and essentials to souvenirs, catering to all the needs of visitors.

Famous Products at Ben Thanh Market:

• Nón Lá (Vietnamese Conical Hat): A traditional Vietnamese item, this hat is highly favored by international tourists as a cultural souvenir.

• Clothing and Fashion Accessories: A diverse selection of fashionable items ranging from branded clothing to handmade products, offering something for everyone.
• Electronics: You’ll find a variety of electronic products, including computers and related accessories.
• Handicrafts: Ben Thanh Market is home to many handmade items, such as bamboo paintings, woven baskets, ceramics, and brass goods.
• Fabrics and Sewing Materials: Visitors can find different types of fabric and sewing materials to design their own unique garments.
• Food and Specialty Products: Ben Thanh is also a hub for local delicacies, including a variety of dried seafood, jams, and fruits from different regions across Vietnam. You don’t need to travel far to taste these treats; just head to the market and choose what you like.

What to Eat at Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is also a fantastic destination for enjoying the distinctive cuisine of Saigon. Here are some popular and delicious dishes you should try when visiting:

• Crab Soup Noodles: One of the best dishes at Ben Thanh Market that you must try. Simple yet flavorful, this noodle dish consists of crab paste, pig’s blood, tofu, and a rich broth that blends perfectly to create a satisfying experience for diners.

• Steamed Rice Cakes: A beloved dish that is especially popular among visitors. Prices range from 25,000 VND to 50,000 VND, depending on the type, with a special sauce poured over the top, creating an irresistible, savory flavor.

• Crab Noodle Soup: If you’re a fan of crab noodle soup, make sure to visit stall 1301 at Ben Thanh Market for a fresh bowl of bánh canh with a variety of daily toppings, served with a thick, piping-hot broth. It’s guaranteed to be delicious.

• Vietnamese Sweet Soup: You can’t miss the chè stalls at Ben Thanh Market, where you’ll find an array of colorful, neatly displayed sweet soups. The most famous shop in the market is Chè Bé (Che Be), which has been serving southern-style chè for over 40 years. After a long day of shopping and sightseeing, enjoy a refreshing bowl of chè to cool down and relax.

Ben Thanh Market at night

At night, Ben Thanh Market comes alive with a vibrant atmosphere filled with entertainment and food. The night market starts operating at 7 PM, with over 100 stalls extending onto Phan Chu Trinh and Phan Boi Chau streets beside the market. Here, you’ll find thousands of handmade crafts, souvenirs, clothing, accessories, and a variety of night-time food stalls offering seafood, grilled foods, beer, and refreshing drinks. Every evening, Ben Thanh Night Market attracts over 1,000 visitors, including locals and tourists, who immerse themselves in the lively, bustling atmosphere of the city.

Tourist Attractions Near Ben Thanh Market

In addition to Ben Thanh Market, visitors can explore several other famous attractions in the area, such as:

• Saigon Central Post Office: Admire its classic architecture, a hallmark of Saigon’s charm.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon: A remarkable architectural masterpiece in the heart of the city.
• Independence Palace: A site preserving Vietnam’s rich historical, cultural, and architectural heritage.
• Nguyen Hue Walking Street: A vibrant hub for entertainment, shopping, and dining.

Important Tips When Visiting Ben Thanh Market

To have a complete and cost-effective trip to Ben Thanh Market, here are some tips you should keep in mind:

• The market operates from 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM, so if you want to explore the market, plan to visit during this time. After 7:00 PM, the night market outside will start to open.
• The market is quite large, with many stalls, so you’ll need at least 1 to 2 hours to explore. Be sure to plan your time accordingly.
• Since the market mainly caters to foreign tourists, the prices may be slightly higher than usual. Be sure to bargain to avoid overpaying.
• Be cautious of pickpockets and snatch thefts as the situation hasn’t been fully controlled. Always keep your belongings safe.
• When taking photos at the entrance of the market, ensure you’re mindful of traffic safety, as the front of the market is a busy street.
• If you’re not interested in purchasing items, feel free to explore the market. However, do not touch or set down goods you do not intend to buy, as vendors may become upset.

Conclusion

Ben Thanh Market is a fascinating destination in the journey through Saigon. Visitors can explore and experience many exciting activities here, from shopping and dining to discovering the unique architecture of the city. However, it’s important for tourists to keep certain tips in mind to ensure a safe trip and fully enjoy the experience at Ben Thanh Market.