3 Must-Visit Markets in Ho Chi Minh City: A Shopper’s & Foodie’s Guide
If you’re planning a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, one experience you can’t skip is exploring its vibrant markets. Whether you’re looking for authentic souvenirs, high-quality fashion at unbeatable prices, or mouthwatering street food, these three markets have something for everyone. Let’s dive into the best spots to shop, eat, and soak in the city’s energy!
1. Ben Thanh Market – The Iconic Shopping Spot
Best for: Souvenirs, fresh produce, and a classic Vietnamese market experience. Ben Thanh Market is one of the most famous landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City. It’s been around for over a century and remains a must-visit for travelers wanting to experience the city’s local shopping scene. In my opinion, it’s an insane experience. From all the shopping and food options, the smells can be a bit overpowering (thanks, Durian!), and the vendors can be a bit pushy. But if you like to bargain hard, this just might be for you.
What to Expect:
Souvenirs & Handicrafts: From lacquerware and bamboo goods to hand-stitched textiles, it has a bit of everything for you to choose from to take home or gift to friends.
Fresh Fruits & Spices: Enjoy Vietnam’s tropical flavors with fresh dragon fruit, mangoes, and fragrant spices prepared for you on the spot and for a decent price. Buy Vietnamese coffee here to take home, just like the tea and dried fruit!
Traditional Vietnamese Clothes: You can find beautiful ao dai (Vietnam’s traditional dress) and silk scarves at reasonable prices.
Pro Tips:
Bargain, bargain, bargain! Vendors often quote high prices, so be prepared to negotiate, but be mindful of how you do it, not to offend them either. You can pay with card in most booths but ready to be charged 4% fee on each transaction.
Visit in the morning when it’s cooler and less crowded.
Try the fresh juices—they’re refreshing and perfect for staying energized while you shop!
2. Saigon Square – The Best Place for Quality Knockoffs
Best for: Affordable fashion, branded knockoffs, and air-conditioned shopping. This was the number one place I was recommended to come to look for knockoffs (think the fake Louis, Gucci, etc.) and much to my surprise this place was not only good for that but as well for fake designer clothing. I’m still not one hundred percent sure that what we bought was fake because Vietnam has many factories for branded designers, so for all I know, we could have bought originals but with minor defects! Big win if that’s the case! Unlike Ben Thanh, this market has an indoor, mall-like feel, making it a more comfortable shopping experience. More organized booths, friendlier vendors, better prices right off the bat, and air-conditioned.
What to Expect:
High-Quality Knockoffs: You’ll find designer-style bags, shoes, and clothing that look just like the real thing—but for a fraction of the price.
Casual & Formal Wear: Trendy streetwear, office attire, sports and big on golf attire, and even swimwear.
Air-Conditioned Comfort: A welcome break from the city’s heat and humidity.
Pro Tips:
Bring cash! Most stalls take cards, but cash is preferred for better deals. Most vendors charge you a 4% commission fee for card payments.
Try things on. When they warn you that Vietnamese sizes are different, believe them! Don’t be offended if they offer you an L even if your normal size is an S.
Compare prices. Some vendors sell similar items at different rates, so shop around before making a purchase. Plus, on designer goods, check out all vendors' booths first and assess based on the look and price of each booth.
3. Saigon Street Food Market – A Food Lover’s Paradise
Best for: Tasting local Vietnamese dishes in a fun, social setting and in a cleaner environment. If shopping makes you hungry (which it probably will), the Saigon Street Food Market is the perfect place to refuel. Located near Ben Thanh Market, this lively food court offers a mix of traditional Vietnamese cuisine and international flavors. When I tell you that we were regulars, I mean we came at least twice a week! Prices here are fantastic, and if like me, you travel with a picky eater (Saleem), you can find a bit more international flavors to fit their needs.
What to Eat:
Mixed Pho (Phở trộn): This type of pho is dry, meaning that it doesn't contain broth – instead, it's a salad with meat (beef or chicken) and noodles. The dish is typical of Hanoi, and it's especially popular during summer.
Pad Thai: Not Vietnamese, but I highly recommend you try it here at the market. My favorite stall is Mpos Thai Kitchen, and every dish they make is perfection, plus you can’t be mad for a full delicious plate of food for 3,5€!
Coconut Ice Cream: This was my favorite surprise. The Vietnamese pancakes that came with it were light and fluff,y but that ice cream was REAL coconut! They shaved an entire coconut and made it into ice cream. Price: 4€! Amazing!
Pro Tips:
Go in the evening for a lively atmosphere with music and entertainment. Live entertainment usually happens from Thursdays to Sundays.
Try different stalls! If like us you visit frequently, you can test out many places, or if you’re short on time, order from many stalls and share with a friend or partner.
Grab a drink! There’s no comparison to freshly made Mango juice if you’re feeling an alcohol-free night, or grab a cold local beer to try the Vietnamese alcohol. I must say, and I’m not a beer drinker, they have nice beer (Tiger and Saigon were my favorite).
Final Thoughts
Each of these markets offers a unique glimpse into Ho Chi Minh City’s culture, from traditional shopping experiences to modern, well-organized spots. Whether you’re here to shop, eat, or just explore, you’ll leave with a full bag and an even fuller stomach! Which of these markets would you visit first? Let me know in the comments! 