Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is possibly the most well-known symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, showing up in a large number of publications, movies, online articles. It is said by some locals that your trip toHo Chi Minh Cityis incomplete without a visit to Ben Thanh market to experience the “realVietnam”.

Due to the market is situated in downtownHo Chi Minh City, transportation is extremely convenient. If you are staying downtown you can also check first to see whether walking is possible to get there from your hotel. Try to arrive at the market in the morning before heat of the day hits if you want to go shopping, in addition, some “morning price” is available before 8am, which is a little lower than the usual for the same good. “Cool” price at the beginning of the day is for easier first transaction which is believed to bring good luck to the sellers for the rest of the day. At the bustling Ben Thanh Market you can find nearly anything your heart desires, from clothing, jewelry to dry food, local fruits and Vietnamese coffee. You will be also attracted by a variety of souvenirs, including lacquer art, framed paintings and local handicrafts. But always remember to keep good care of your belongings, and go at least three or four stalls to compare the prices and see how cheap you can bargain the items down to.

Another time to feel the authentic Vietnamese is from evening until late night, when the shops inside the market are closed, but several restaurants are open outside on the surrounding streets. Chefs will cook in front of you with an endless array of cuisine choices including vegetarian noodles, fresh seafood, crispy rice pancakes and steamed cakes. Order some cold drink as well as barbecued meats and fish, all reasonably priced, you will find the night market is a great, inexpensive way to spend an evening inHo Chi Minh City.