Ben Thanh Market (HCMC) - The Immortal Symbol of Saigon's Cultural Life

Ben Thanh Market is one of the three symbols of Saigon City in the past and Ho Chi Minh City in the present (after undergoing the biggest name change in history) alongside the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Independence Palace.

If the Independence Palace is a political symbol, Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral is a religious symbol, then Ben Thanh market is also a symbol of the social life of Saigon people and to this day the market still exists like many years ago and is also an indispensable tourist destination in every tour in Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Introduction

Ben Thanh Market has existed in Ho Chi Minh City for more than 112 years. This means it is the second oldest tourist destination, only behind Saigon Notre Dame Cathedral.

1.1 The Origin

In the early years of its establishment, the Ben Thanh market existed even before the French invaded Gia Dinh. It used to be an old market located on the banks of the Ben Nghe River and next to a river wharf near Gia Dinh citadel.

In February 1859, after the French occupied Gia Dinh citadel, the market was destroyed and in 1860, they rebuilt the market at the same old location.

Through many historical events, the old market was no longer a reasonable location, so in 1912 the French also chose another location to build a new, larger market, and became the location of Ben Thanh market (which we see today) then.

1.2 The Location

The market is located in the city center on Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The main gate of Ben Thanh Market, overlooking Quach Thi Trang Square with the symbol of a three-sided clock tower, is also known as the South Gate.

1.3 Operating time

• The market's operating hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. 
• The night market area on Phan Boi Chau Street next to the market is open from 7:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m.

1.4 Diagram of the Market

Ben Thanh Market is divided into 4 main doors including:

• The East Gate faces the bustling Phan Boi Chau neighborhood: a paradise of cosmetics and confectionery for those with a sweet tooth.
• The West Gate faces Phan Chu Trinh Street: this is where shoe stalls, handicrafts, and souvenirs gather for you to freely choose to buy as gifts.
• The South Gate overlooks Quach Thi Trang Square: this is the place where fabrics, clothes, and dry foods are sold the most.
• The North Gate on Le Thanh Ton Street: specializes in selling a variety of fresh foods, fruits, and vegetables.

In addition to these 4 main doors, the market also has 12 side doors radiating out into 4 directions.

2. What Does Ben Thanh Market Have?

Ben Thanh Market has an area of ​​more than 13,000 square meters and up to 6,000 small businesses and about 1,500 different business stalls including food, fashion, cosmetics, appliances, etc.

2.1 The Main Gate - Best Selfie Spot

This is the most famous photo spot at Ben Thanh Market because it has an extremely unique three-sided clock tower.

2.2 Shopping Stalls for A Shopping Frenzy

Considered the largest retail market in Saigon, this place has all kinds of goods from popular to luxury, from fashion to household appliances.

2.3 A Paradise for Food Lovers

When it comes to Saigon's cuisine, the food court in Ben Thanh market is always the first choice of locals and tourists. This place was also chosen by the US Food and Wine magazine as one of the 10 destinations with the most attractive street food on the planet.

The food court is arranged by the management board into a spacious area, which makes it a food street located in the heart of Ben Thanh market.

2.4 Ben Thanh Market At Night

Traveling to Ho Chi Minh City without enjoying the nightlife and visiting the night market is truly a mistake because Ben Thanh market at night is also known as an entertainment paradise for both young people and adults.

• Operating hours: 19:00 - 22:00.
• Address: Located on 2 streets Phan Boi Chau and Phan Chu Trinh.

3. How To Get To Ben Thanh Market?

To get here, you can travel using transport such as:

• Bus: Bus routes passing near Ben Thanh market are 03, 04, 152, 19, 20, 39, 53, 93, and 96. The stops are usually about 200 - 600 meters from the market, it will take you about 4 - 8 minutes to walk from the stop to the market gate.
• Self-driving motorbikes and cars (hired): You can travel on your initiative by motorbike or car and use Google Maps. There are some private parking areas near the market. Car parking prices range from 10,000 - 20,000 VND/turn. However, you should ask about the ticket price in advance.
• Motorbike taxi, taxi: If you are not familiar with the streets of Ho Chi Minh City, you should book a taxi, or motorbike taxi, Grab, etc.

4. NOTES:

• Always ask the price first and remember to pay the price every time you buy.
• Protect personal belongings such as phones, bags, and wallets to prevent theft due to the extremely large number of visitors to the market.
• When taking photos at the market gate area, pay close attention because vehicles moving through here are extremely crowded, especially during rush hours.

We hope that this Ben Thanh market article will be useful for your trip to Saigon.

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