Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street Saigon – a paradise of activities

With beautiful scenery, diverse entertainment activities, and numerous services, bustling shops on both sides of the street,… Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City) – a street likened to a paradise of activities, is the heart of the glamorous city and has become an ideal meeting place for both locals and tourists. Besides strolling and sightseeing, there are plenty of interesting things that you will surely easily discover. Let’s explore every nook and cranny and experience the vibrant charm of this beautiful street!

Some details about Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon.

Where is Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street located?

Currently, this popular street, which attracts many tourists, is situated on Nguyen Hue Boulevard in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. It connects the People’s Committee Headquarters with the Saigon River and the Bach Dang Wharf. Since its inauguration until now, Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street has been embraced as the liveliest destination in Saigon, offering an open space, various exciting activities, sparkling apartment buildings with lights, and stylish cafes.

Overview of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon

Why does this pedestrian street exist in Saigon?

In 1790, it was originally a canal that brought water from the Saigon River into Gia Dinh city. It was also known as “Kinh Cho Vai” (Silk Market) because it used to be a vibrant trading area for Indian fabrics. Later, Rear Admiral Cherner renamed it to “Cherner Canal.” However, due to heavy pollution caused by the increasing workload, the French colonizers decided to fill the canal and named it “Cherner Avenue.” In 1959, during the Republic of Vietnam period, it was given another name, “Nguyen Hue Boulevard,” which is still used today.

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Southern region.

In reality, Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street was constructed to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the South, the reunification of the country, with a total budget of 430 billion Vietnamese dong. After 7 months of construction, the project was completed and inaugurated on April 30, 2015. The street has a total length of 670 meters and a width of 64 meters, consisting of two main sections: from the President Ho Chi Minh Monument Park (Le Thanh Ton Street) to Le Loi Street, and from Le Loi Street to Ton Duc Thang Street. The entire street is paved with granite tiles, lined with trees on both sides, and features an underwater music control center, modern lighting, and restrooms, making it the most beautiful and modern square.

Is Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street open every day?

This is probably a question that everyone wonders when planning to visit this street. Based on the travel experience in Ho Chi Minh City, Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street operates on most days, from Monday to Sunday. However, if you want to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, it’s best to choose the weekends. Usually, festivals and important events are organized on these days to cater to the entertainment needs of tourists.

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street operates every day.

Experience the extremely fast and convenient private transfer service from Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) to Ho Chi Minh City by private car.

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon – What fun experiences to try!

When you come to Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon, you will never feel bored because it is a paradise of activities, offering various experiences such as:

Relax in the refreshing space of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street

With its spacious square and green trees on both sides, the atmosphere here is always refreshing and cool. Whenever you feel tired, whether it’s morning, noon, afternoon, or evening, find a spot to sit, enjoy the breeze, watch people passing by, chat with friends, and relax without spending a dime. You can also play with the white water columns, feed the pigeons – simple activities that can make your worries disappear in no time.

Relax in a refreshing and airy space.

Watch music performances on Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street

During Saturdays and Sundays, wandering around Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, you’ll encounter young people with a shared passion for the arts gathering here to exchange and perform. From modern hip-hop music to gentle guitar tunes and youthful songs, you can enjoy all of these live on the street.

Enjoy music performances

Moreover, if you visit during special events, you might have the chance to witness large music shows with grand stages, dynamic sound, and vibrant lights. What’s even better is that many famous singers perform for free. So, be prepared to immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere and have a blast!

Admire the beauty of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street from above.

Surrounding Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in District 1 are countless cafes. They serve not only drinks but also provide vantage points for tourists to admire the lively street from above. Enjoying the picturesque view from such a height is a delightful experience that everyone would love to have. Therefore, make sure to find a café with a balcony, order a drink, and indulge in the bustling city view.

Admire the beauty of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon from above.

Stroll around Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street and capture beautiful photos

Nowadays, many people compare Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon to foreign streets. It’s clean without scattered trash, and the cables are well organized. The long street is entirely paved with clean and shiny granite tiles, adorned with modern fountains, green trees, and flowers. There are also colorful cafes and tea shops with bright lights. Just take a stroll and find some corners, and you’ll have plenty of beautiful and sparkling photos.

Pose for Instagram-worthy photos around the street

Discover the beauty of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street after 11 PM

In the evening, the pedestrian street is always vibrant and bustling. But have you ever thought about staying here after 11 PM? At this time, the lively scene you usually see will be replaced by a quiet emptiness, with no one around. The vehicles become sparse, and even the street vendors are no longer wandering. It’s ideal if you want to find a peaceful spot in the glamorous city to reflect on yourself or simply contemplate life.

At night, Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon becomes peaceful and quiet.

Instagrammable spots near Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon.

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street is not the only attraction around; there are several other places to check-in and make your Saigon trip even more exciting.

Nguyen Hue’s Old Apartment Building next to Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street.

The old apartment building at 42 Nguyen Hue has gained popularity since the pedestrian street appeared. Its worn-out paint and weathered walls have suddenly become trendy, attracting young people to flock here for photo sessions. Amidst this building, you’ll find numerous cafes, upscale restaurants, but exploring the place is necessary to fully appreciate its charm. Besides indulging in some delicious dishes, the highlight here is taking artsy and vintage-inspired photos. If you love photography, these historic backgrounds with a touch of time will surely satisfy your creative cravings.

Nguyen Hue’s Apartment Building is an ideal check-in spot.

Moreover, take some time to learn about the history of this building and chat with some locals to understand their long-standing way of life. It can be a fascinating experience!

Saigon Garden Complex on the front of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street.

Located right next to the pedestrian street is Saigon Garden, a beautiful and luxurious complex in Saigon. With green trees surrounding the entrance, the complex houses restaurants, cafes, modern shopping areas, and various exciting entertainment services, ensuring you’ll never run out of things to do here. It’s also an excellent spot to capture stunning and deep pictures.

Ho Chi Minh Statue at Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street’s Square.

To the north of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street stands the Ho Chi Minh Statue. Inaugurated on May 17, 2015, this monument holds a significant position, welcoming both locals and international visitors to come and admire its magnificence. It serves as a place for people to pay their respects and take in the awe-inspiring sight of the revered leader.

The Statue of President Ho Chi Minh.

These spots add to the allure of Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street and provide more opportunities for capturing memorable photos and immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Saigon.

What to eat at Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon?

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street is not only known as a playground but also a food and beverage paradise. Here, you can find a variety of options to satisfy your taste buds. After a stroll, recharge your energy with delicious milk tea from Phuc Long, Boo Coffee, or Slow and Chill Coffee. Try some tasty snacks like mixed rice paper, grilled rice paper, bingsu (Korean shaved ice dessert), cute-shaped ice cream, or refreshing cheap strawberry smoothies with excellent quality.

Around the pedestrian street, there are countless delicious dishes for you to indulge in

After exploring Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street, don’t forget to visit Ben Thanh Market to enjoy local food and do some shopping.

Some tips for exploring Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon.

How to get to Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street in Saigon?

You can choose to travel by private car, motorbike, or bus to get to Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street. However, it is recommended to avoid going by car due to heavy traffic, which can easily cause congestion. Instead, consider using a motorbike, as there are several routes (depending on your starting point) that you can check on Google Maps for directions. Once you arrive, you can park your motorbike at nearby parking lots, with a fee of 5,000 VND per vehicle. Additionally, if you visit during the daytime, you can also opt for the bus. Bus routes number 93, 36, 104, 53, 56, 02, 104, 03, 101, and others pass through bus stops near the pedestrian street.

Furthermore, if you plan to visit multiple places in Saigon, relying solely on public transportation might take a lot of time. In that case, DanangPrivateCar.com’s provides private car services with professional drivers in Ho Chi Minh City. With our private car service, we will take you to any place you want to visit, and our experienced drivers will ensure you have a safe and efficient journey.

What to consider when visiting Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street?

  • This place is a gathering spot for both locals and young people from Saigon and tourists, so it can get quite crowded. Be mindful of protecting your personal belongings and be cautious of pickpockets and snatch thieves.
  • For first-time visitors to the pedestrian street, you will undoubtedly be enchanted by its atmosphere, so remember to bring a fully charged phone to capture all the places you want to check-in!

After reading this article, are you excited to visit Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street? Make sure to add this name to your list of places to explore in Saigon if you have the opportunity to visit the city named after President Ho Chi Minh.

Visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels – The “Underground Labyrinth” of Saigon

The Cu Chi Tunnels were originally a resistance base for our nation during the Indochina War. This place is known as the “city underground” with a labyrinthine system of tunnels, numerous rooms, clinics, storage facilities, and kitchens. Today, the tunnels are not only classified as a special national historical site but also a fascinating destination that attracts a large number of domestic and international tourists who come to explore and learn about the wartime history of the Vietnamese people.

Some information to know about the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Where are the Cu Chi Tunnels located?

The Cu Chi Tunnels are one of the 6 special artificial works in the world and one of the 7 most extraordinary destinations in Southeast Asia. These tunnels are situated in an area on the outskirts of Saigon, along Provincial Road 15, in Phu Hiep Ward, Cu Chi District, Ho Chi Minh City. They are approximately 60 km northwest of the city center. Referred to as the “Land of Steel Heroes,” this place houses a tunnel system stretching nearly 250 km underground. It served as the battleground for the army and people of the South during the resistance against invading enemies, fighting for the independence and freedom of the country.

Cu Chi Tunnels is located on the outskirts of Saigon, about 60 km away

History of the formation of the Cu Chi Tunnels.

The tunnels were formed during the resistance against French colonial rule (1946 – 1948). During this period, the people of Tan Phu Trung and Phuoc Vinh An communes dug short tunnels to hide and store weapons. Initially, each village constructed its own tunnel, but later, to facilitate movement between villages, they interconnected these tunnels to form a more complex and extensive system. Over time, the tunnels expanded to many areas, especially in the six northern communes of Cu Chi, becoming a hiding place for troops and a means of communication between them.

Cu Chi Tunnels were formed during the resistance war against the French colonialists

From 1961 to 1965, the people of the northern communes completed the main tunnel routes and developed many connecting branches. Above the tunnels, numerous combat bunkers, nail traps, bell-shaped pits, and minefields were set up. By 1965, around 200 km of tunnels had been dug and divided into three different levels: the upper level was 3 meters below the ground, the middle level was 2 meters deep, and the bottom level was between 8 to 10 meters deep. From then on, the tunnels were used for shelter, meetings, and storing weapons.

Should you visit the Cu Chi Tunnels?

Although the journey to explore the Cu Chi Tunnels in Saigon holds significant historical importance, it offers various activities and interesting destinations, making it an ideal choice for weekend trips or holidays. With prominent points of interest within the historical site and nearby locations, you can expect to have experiences involving history, culture, and even cuisine.

Tips for visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels for first-time visitors.

Does Cu Chi Tunnels have entrance tickets for visitors?

According to the travel experience in Saigon, the Cu Chi Tunnels do offer entrance tickets, and the prices are quite affordable, at only 20,000 VND per person. If you want to explore the resistance base area, there is an additional fee of 40,000 VND. Moreover, within the tunnels, there are two main areas, Ben Dinh and Ben Duoc, both open during the same hours (from 8 AM to 5 PM), but they have different entrance ticket prices as follows:

  • Ben Dinh entrance fee: 110,000 VND per person.
  • Ben Duoc entrance fee: 90,000 VND per person.

How to get to the Cu Chi Tunnels.

There are various ways to get to the Cu Chi Tunnels, either by public transport or personal vehicles (as you prefer). Here are some options to consider:

Motorbike or car: You can travel in the direction of An Suong Overpass and take National Highway 22, but the route is quite far and complex. It’s not advisable for first-time visitors. However, if you enjoy adventurous trips and want to explore the scenery along the way, riding a motorbike can be a good option.

For first-time foreign visitors, you can book a private car from Ho Chi Minh City to Cu Chi Tunnels with DanangPrivateCar.com. Our driver will pick you up anywhere in Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, you can also rent a car with a driver in Ho Chi Minh City from us to visit other famous destinations in Saigon.

Bus routes to Cu Chi Tunnels depart from the city center

Bus: This is a popular option for most domestic travelers. You can catch a bus from Ben Thanh Station, take either route 13 or 94 to Cu Chi Bus Station, then transfer to bus number 79 to get to Ben Duoc; or take route 13 or 94 to An Suong Station, and from there, take route 122 to Tan Quy Bus Station, then take bus number 70 to reach Ben Dinh.

When is the best time to visit Cu Chi Tunnels during the year?

Visitors can explore the Cu Chi Tunnels at any time of the year, but it is best to avoid the rainy months. During that time, the weather can be unfavorable with strong winds and heavy rains, which may hinder your touring experience and potentially affect your health.

The attractions to visit in the Cu Chi Tunnels.

The Underground Tunnel Area in Cu Chi.

This is undoubtedly the first place you must visit on your journey. By experiencing the 120m long tunnel system with two floors, you can immerse yourself in the lives of Saigon’s residents during the war, facing the harsh realities of the past. During the visit, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the “specialties” of wartime, such as cassava dipped in sesame salt, a simple yet delicious treat.

Under the Cu Chi Tunnels

The Recreation of the War Zone in the Cu Chi Tunnels.

In this area, you can genuinely feel the overall picture of the bloody battle of the old Saigon. Not only that, but it also preserves models of historical relics and beautiful landscapes of Vietnam, such as the Nha Rong Wharf, Long Bien Bridge, Saigon Bridge, One Pillar Pagoda, and more. Don’t forget to capture some photos to make your trip more meaningful.

War re-enactment area in Cu Chi tunnels

The Shooting Range in the Tunnels.

One of the real experiences when visiting the Cu Chi Tunnels is learning how to assemble and shoot old guns. This area attracts many tourists who wish to try their hand at shooting. The entrance fee is 50,000 VND per person for 60 minutes. Additionally, for 3,000 VND, you can purchase a bullet and test your shooting skills, which is extremely enticing.

Shooting area in the tunnel

The Simulated South Sea Bath Area in the Cu Chi Tunnels.

Just a 15-minute walk from the tunnel area, the simulated bath area promises to provide young visitors with a refreshing and cool experience. You can enjoy a dip in the pool. The entrance fee to the bath area is 20,000 VND per person.

The Trung An Fruit Garden in the Cu Chi Tunnels.

After a long journey exploring the tunnels, you should choose Trung An Fruit Garden as the final destination for some relaxing moments. Trung An is a famous fruit garden in the South, where you can find a variety of familiar fruits such as rambutan, durian, jackfruit, sapodilla, plum, and more.

What activities are there in the Cu Chi Tunnels? Fun games you shouldn’t miss.

At the Cu Chi Tunnels, you can participate in various exciting activities on the ground.

After touring and learning about the significance and important features of the Cu Chi Tunnels, visitors can continue their exploration by engaging in fun games such as mock battles with paintball guns, sport shooting, military-style beer games, enjoying the Cu Chi pool area with water ball games, swimming, slides, canoeing, rowing boats, paddleboats on the Saigon River, or watching a 4D movie.

Explore the Cu Chi Tunnels underground.

The tunnels form a vast and winding underground system with varying depths. As you go deeper inside, you’ll feel like you’re lost in a maze. Inside the tunnels, you’ll encounter various rooms like meeting rooms, kitchens, weapon storage rooms, medical rooms, where our soldiers and people used to live.

Join the paintball game

However, during the exploration, it’s crucial to follow the guidance of the tour guide, as the area is equipped with many secret tunnels and cleverly designed traps. The tunnels are quite dark, and the passages are narrow, allowing only one person to pass at a time, so caution is essential.

What delicious food to eat in Cu Chi Tunnels?

Besides being attracted by the fascinating destinations and activities, when you visit the Cu Chi Tunnels in Saigon, you should definitely not miss the chance to taste the local specialties such as boiled cassava, boiled taro, Củ Chi beef, durian, sugarcane juice, various sweet desserts, and especially the boiled cassava, which seems to be a favorite of almost every visitor. You can find this dish in the underground kitchens, and when you try it in the cramped and humid space, you will somewhat experience the hardship and scarcity that the soldiers of the past endured.

Some small tips for exploring the Cu Chi Tunnels.

  • There are no strict dress codes, but it’s advisable to wear neat, dark-colored clothes to avoid difficulties in washing if they get stained.
  • Prepare a pair of sports shoes for comfortable movement during the tour.
  • Apply insect repellent cream because there are quite a lot of mosquitoes, especially as you go deeper into the tunnels.
  • If you have claustrophobia or high blood pressure, it’s better to avoid entering the narrower tunnels.

Above is the entire experience of exploring Cu Chi Tunnels – an important historical site of the Vietnamese nation. If you plan to visit Ho Chi Minh City, you must definitely include a visit to the Cu Chi Tunnels in your itinerary.

Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City & Latest Travel Tips

Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City, is an iconic symbol when it comes to the city named after Uncle Ho. Where is Ben Thanh Market located? What’s interesting about Ben Thanh Market? Let’s find out through the article by DanangPrivateCar.com’s.

There are dozens of places to visit, hundreds of points to explore, and thousands of activities waiting for you. However, if you haven’t visited Ben Thanh Market, one of the most bustling markets and a symbol of the city, then your journey is not yet complete.

Let’s find out where is Ben Thanh market? Discover the features of this Saigon icon

Having existed and developed for over 100 years, Ben Thanh Market is not only a trading hub for the locals but also an unmissable tourist destination. From its unique architecture and friendly vendors to the diversity of goods available, it attracts everyone to come and explore at least once.

To not miss out on exciting experiences, let’s wander around Ben Thanh Market for a day with Klook and see what this market has to offer.

Introduction to Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City.

Ben Thanh Market is a large market located in the city center. From a market built by the Ben Nghe River in the 17th century, Ben Thanh Market has transformed into a solid and iconic structure of Saigon.

Originally, the market was constructed with bricks, wooden frames, and thatched roofs, situated next to a river port near Gia Dinh Citadel. This port was used to welcome travelers and soldiers into the city, hence the name “Ben Thanh,” and consequently, the market became known as Ben Thanh Market.

Information about the old Ben Thanh market with ancient beauty.

However, around the mid-1911, the market area deteriorated and was at risk of collapse. To avoid this danger, the French authorities chose the area of Bo Ret Pond (Marais Boresse), filled it up, and planned four roads, creating a new, more resilient market. That is the location of Ben Thanh Market to this day.

After over 100 years of presence, along with the changes of this historic city, the image of Ben Thanh Market is deeply ingrained in the memories of Saigon residents, reflecting the grandeur of the past and the vibrant life of today.

With an area of over 13,000 square meters, Ben Thanh Market serves as a trading hub for the local residents of Saigon and the surrounding areas. It accommodates nearly 6,000 vendors and around 1,500 stalls, attracting thousands of visitors every day.

When Was Ben Thanh Market Built?

According to an official document published in the Le Nouvelliste Cochinchinois (New Cochinchina Newspaper) on March 31, 1914, the reconstruction project for Ben Thanh Market appeared in 1894, but construction didn’t begin until 1912. The official inauguration of Ben Thanh Market took place on March 28, 1914.

Ben Thanh Market has undergone several renovations and upgrades. After a major renovation in 1985, both the market’s interior stalls and the surrounding areas were refreshed, while the external architecture and the clock tower were preserved.

Why is Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City Famous?

Located in the city center, after over 100 years, Ben Thanh Market is not only a place for business and trade but also a witness to the many changes and fluctuations of Saigon. Moreover, it is one of the most renowned tourist destinations in the city that attracts visitors from all walks of life. Travelers visit Ben Thanh Market not only for shopping but also to experience and capture the distinctive characteristics and everyday life of the city’s inhabitants.

How Many Gates Does Ben Thanh Market Have?

Ben Thanh Market is designed with four main gates located on the four sides of the market, and it has 12 auxiliary gates radiating in four directions. Each main gate offers a variety of popular items for visitors to explore or enjoy on the spot.

  • The Southern Gate (main entrance) is situated on Le Loi Street and is known for selling fabrics, clothing, and dried goods. Notably, the Southern Gate also features a three-faced clock tower that has remained unchanged since its construction, attracting many visitors who come to check-in and take photos.
  • The Northern Gate is located on Le Thanh Ton Street and leads to the section selling fresh food and fruits.
  • The Eastern Gate is situated on Phan Boi Chau Street and is a paradise for pastries, confectionery, and cosmetics.
  • The Western Gate is located on Phan Chu Trinh Street and focuses on selling footwear, handicrafts, and souvenirs.

Where is Ben Thanh Market located?

Ben Thanh Market is officially located on Le Loi Street, District 1, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City. It faces Quach Thi Trang Square, which is now the Ben Thanh Subway Station.

You should clearly determine which district Ben Thanh market is in, which street before traveling by personal vehicle
  • Ben Thanh Market is located in the central District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City, so it is easy to reach by any means of transportation.
  • If you are traveling by bus, you can refer to the routes that have stops near Ben Thanh Market, such as 01, 02, 03, 11, 12, 13, 18, 19, 20, etc. The bus stops are usually about 200-600m away from the market, and it only takes a few minutes to walk to the market.
  • For those who prefer cycling or motorbikes, you can park at private parking spots for a fee of around 10,000 – 20,000 VND per trip.
  • You can also take a traditional taxi or ride-hailing services. The drivers will drop you off right in front of the market entrance.

Furthermore, if you want a convenient, affordable, and flexible mode of transportation, you can hire a car with a driver in Ho Chi Minh City. You can combine your trip with visits to other famous places. With your own vehicle from danangprivatecar.com, you can have a comfortable and flexible schedule. Our drivers will wait for you to explore and experience different destinations. Contact us now for the best advice.

Operating Hours of Ben Thanh Market to Refer to.

Ben Thanh Market typically starts its activities at 4:00 AM and closes at 7:00 PM. However, after 7:00 PM, the Ben Thanh Night Market lights up and becomes bustling and lively.

There are two ideal time frames for you to visit Ben Thanh Market:

  • From 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM: Suitable for sightseeing, shopping, and indulging in a variety of food options inside the market.
  • After 7:00 PM: Perfect for those who enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the dazzling night stalls.

With its large area and thousands of stalls arranged in different sections, it may take you nearly 2 hours to explore the entire Ben Thanh Market. Therefore, #DanangPrivateCar recommends planning your time wisely to fully experience the fascinating aspects of this market.

What’s there to do at Ben Thanh Market?

The image of Ben Thanh Market is familiar to both Vietnamese people and international visitors when they come to visit Saigon. Behind its classical French architecture, lies a vibrant and dynamic buying and selling scene taking place inside. Let’s find out what you can do at Ben Thanh Market with #DanangPrivateCar!

Unique Architecture.

From a market constructed with bricks, wooden frames, thatched roofs, to iron frames, tiled roofs, and now with modern tin roofs and ceramic floors, Ben Thanh Market has undergone many changes, but the old architectural features remain, especially the clock tower at the Southern Gate. The clock tower has three faces and follows French architecture, with the words “CHỢ BẾN THÀNH” (Ben Thanh Market) inscribed on it.

Furthermore, each main gate of the market is adorned with ceramic bas-reliefs created by artist Le Van Mau, a lecturer at the Bien Hoa Fine Arts School, in 1952. These bas-reliefs depict products from the southern region, such as pigs, cows, ducks, bananas, fish, and more.

Diverse Goods.

Getting lost in Ben Thanh Market is a real possibility! As the largest retail market in the city, you can find a wide range of products from fashion, handicrafts, and souvenirs to household items, electronics, and mementos.

Moreover, there is a dry goods paradise with various types of cakes, preserves, dried seafood, alongside hundreds of types of fruits and agricultural products from the Southern and Western regions, as well as other parts of the country. You can enjoy specialties from all over Vietnam right here at Ben Thanh Market.

Delicious Cuisine.

Ben Thanh Market is famous for its plethora of Saigon’s delicious dishes and specialties from different regions. From main courses like pho, bun bo (beef noodle soup), bun rieu (crab noodle soup), bun suong (clear shrimp and pork dumpling soup), com tam (broken rice), goi cuon (fresh spring rolls), xoi 7 mau (seven-color sticky rice), and more, to snacks like che (sweet dessert soup), snails, various types of sweets, and more. Every dish is flavorful, delicious, and reasonably priced.

This fascinating market is renowned for its numerous delectable dishes, and it would be a shame not to try them. From main courses like bun rieu, bun suong, com tam, bun mam (fermented fish noodle soup), goi cuon, xoi 7 mau, to desserts and indulgent treats like Saigon’s various colorful che, banh beo (steamed rice cakes), different types of snails, they are all fragrant, tasty, and attractively priced.

Vibrant Night Market.

If you’ve been to Ben Thanh Market but haven’t experienced the lively atmosphere of the night market here, then you’ve truly missed out. When the streets light up, the night market comes to life along Phan Chu Trinh and Phan Boi Chau streets.

In addition to the fashion and handicraft stalls, the Ben Thanh Night Market becomes even more bustling with seafood stalls, grilled food vendors, affordable eateries, beer stalls, and lively drink spots. Every evening, locals and tourists gather in the night market area to enjoy delicious budget-friendly dishes and immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere of the “city that never sleeps.”

Nearby Tourist Attractions around Ben Thanh Market.

After exploring the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, you can also visit nearby shopping centers such as Diamond Plaza, Vincom Center Dong Khoi, or drop by the Bitexco Financial Tower.

In addition, there are many other interesting attractions in the city center, such as the Independence Palace, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Central Post Office, City Theater, Ho Chi Minh City Fine Arts Museum, and more.

Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Ben Thanh Market.

  • Due to the nature of the market attracting many foreign visitors, vendors often set higher prices. Remember to inquire about prices beforehand and showcase your bargaining skills a little to avoid being overcharged and to get the desired item at a more reasonable price.
  • Be cautious of your belongings to avoid pickpocketing or snatch theft during your shopping experience.
  • Outside the market area, the streets can be crowded with heavy traffic, so when crossing the road or taking photos for check-ins, it’s important for tourists to pay attention and prioritize their safety.

No matter how much the shopping trends of a modern city may change, traditional markets like Ben Thanh Market will continue to exist over time as an irreplaceable part of Vietnamese cultural life. If you have the opportunity to visit Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to allocate some time to visit this longstanding and bustling market in the city.