Exploring the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant culture. From the colorful stalls to the lively sounds and rich aromas, these markets offer a true taste of local life. Here are 11 must-visit Saigon markets you won’t want to miss.
Ho Chi Minh City pulses with life, and nowhere is this energy more electric than in its famous markets. These bustling hubs are the heartbeat of Saigon, where locals barter, vendors sing out their wares, and travelers uncover the city’s rich tapestry of culture, cuisine, and charm. In this guide, we dive deep into the top 11 markets in Ho Chi Minh City, each a unique gem that captures the essence of this dynamic metropolis. Let’s wander through Saigon’s vibrant market scene.
I. TOP 11 Busiest and Most Famous Markets in Ho Chi Minh City
1. Tan Dinh Market – A Silk Haven with Historic Charm
Located at 336 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1, Tan Dinh Market is one of Saigon’s oldest and most beloved markets, dating back to the 1880s. Originally called Phu Hoa Market, it was rebuilt in 1926 with stunning French colonial architecture, featuring a vibrant yellow facade and three bell towers. Known as the “silk paradise,” this market is a dream for textile lovers, offering an array of fabrics from shimmering silks to intricate laces, perfect for crafting custom ao dai or unique designs.
Beyond fabrics, Tan Dinh is a foodie’s delight, with stalls serving pho, banh mi, and the famous frog porridge on nearby Nguyen Huu Cau Street. Just across the road, the iconic Tan Dinh Church (Pink Church) in District 3 adds a photogenic backdrop to your visit.
Tan Dinh Market, one of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)
Why visit? Immerse yourself in a blend of history, fashion, and authentic street food in the heart of District 1.
Pro tip: Visit between 6 AM and 9 AM for the freshest produce and a lively atmosphere.
2. Binh Tay Market – Cholon’s Architectural Gem
In the vibrant Chinatown of District 5, Binh Tay Market (57A Thap Muoi, Ward 2, District 6) is a masterpiece of Chinese-Vietnamese architecture. Its distinctive clock tower and yin-yang tiled roof make it a standout among the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh. Opened in 1930, this wholesale market is a treasure trove of spices, dried seafood, clothing, and household goods. At Binh Tay Market, there are over 2,500 stalls selling more than 30 categories of products for you to check out.
The surrounding Cholon area, with its pagodas and dim sum restaurants, offers a deep dive into Saigon’s multicultural heritage. Binh Tay Market opens from 2 AM to 11 PM, so you can experience it at night as well. Bargaining is a must here, and the market’s open courtyard creates a breezy, inviting space.
Binh Tay Market, a beautiful and big market in Saigon (Source: Collected)
Why visit? Explore a cultural crossroads and score wholesale deals in a stunning setting.
Pro tip: Pair your visit with a stop at Thien Hau Pagoda for a full Cholon experience.
3. Ben Thanh Market – The Icon of Saigon
No trip to Saigon is complete without a visit to Ben Thanh Market, the city’s most iconic market located at Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1. Built in 1914, this French-Indochinese marvel with its signature clock tower is the epitome of the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
The market has four main entrances, each leading to sections that focus on different types of goods. No matter which one you choose, you’ll find almost everything you’re looking for inside. By day, its 1,500 stalls brim with souvenirs, clothing, and fresh produce. At night, it transforms into a buzzing night market, with food stalls serving com tam and bun rieu. While prices can be touristy, the electric atmosphere and central location make it a must-visit.
Ben Thanh Market, the most iconic market in Ho Chi Minh City, is loved by both locals and tourists (Source: Collected)
Why visit? Experience Saigon’s most famous market, where history meets modern hustle.
Pro tip: Haggle firmly but politely, and try the fresh spring rolls at the north entrance.
4. Ba Chieu Market – A Nighttime Feast
Nestled in Binh Thanh District at Bach Dang Street, Ward 1, Ba Chieu Market (also known as Cho Xom) is a nocturnal gem among the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh. By day, it’s a local hub for fresh ingredients and household goods, but after 5 PM, it morphs into a vibrant night market. Food stalls take center stage, offering dishes like chicken sticky rice, crab egg soup, and creamy soy milk. The market’s affordable clothing and accessories also draw budget-conscious shoppers. Its lively yet approachable vibe makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.
Ba Chieu Market – One of the most exciting night markets in Ho chi Minh City (source: Collected)
Pro tip: Try the bun rieu (crab noodle soup) for an authentic taste of Saigon.
5. Hanh Thong Tay Market – A Youthful Nighttime Escape
Located in Go Vap District at Quang Trung Street, Hanh Thong Tay Market is a magnet for young locals and night owls. This night market is a fashion paradise, with stalls packed with trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories at unbeatable prices. The food scene is equally vibrant, featuring grilled seafood, banh trang nuong (Vietnamese pizza), and refreshing che (sweet dessert soup).
Hanh Thong Tay Market runs from 6 to 11 PM, then again from 11 PM to 7 AM. If you like going out when it is dark, this is a night market in Saigon you should not miss. Its youthful energy and budget-friendly offerings make it one of the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City for a fun evening out.
Hanh Thong Tay Market – A well-known night market in Ho Chi Minh City (source: Collected)
Why visit? Shop for trendy finds and enjoy a lively, student-friendly atmosphere.
Pro tip: Visit on Friday or Saturday nights for the biggest crowds and freshest food.
6. An Dong Market – A Shopper’s Oasis
Tucked away in District 5 at An Duong Vuong Street, Ward 9, An Dong Market is a spacious indoor haven known for its airy design and escalator system. This 56-year-old market offers a vast selection of fashion items, from clothing to accessories, as well as dried foods like shrimp and mushrooms. Its food court is a highlight, serving authentic dishes like hu tieu and banh cuon. Less crowded than Ben Thanh, An Dong is a great pick for those seeking a relaxed shopping experience among the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh.
An Dong Market – One of the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City for shopping lovers (source: Collected)
Why visit? Shop in comfort and savor local flavors in a less touristy setting.
Pro tip: Check out the upper floors for wholesale clothing deals.
7. Thu Duc Market – The Wholesale Powerhouse
Situated in Thu Duc City, Thu Duc Market is a bustling wholesale hub for fresh produce, seafood, and meats. Located in a less touristy area, it’s a raw glimpse into Saigon’s daily life, where vendors and restaurant owners flock for bulk buys. The market’s chaotic energy, with crates of tropical fruits and buckets of fresh fish, is a stark contrast to the city’s glitzy malls.
While not a typical tourist stop, it’s a must for those craving authenticity among the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City.
Why visit? Experience the gritty, vibrant supply chain of Saigon’s culinary scene.
Pro tip: Arrive before 7 AM to catch the freshest stock and best deals.
8. Minh Phung Market – The Budget Traveler’s Gem
In District 6, Minh Phung Market (also known as Cho Go) is a hidden treasure among the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh. This market, open since 1995, is a local favorite for its fair prices and no-haggle culture. Shoppers can find everything from clothing and kitchenware to fresh produce without worrying about inflated prices.
The friendly vendors and laid-back vibe make it a refreshing stop for travelers exploring off-the-beaten-path markets. At night, it transforms into an apparel-focused market with even more bargains.
Minh Phung Market – One of the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City known for its affordable prices
Why visit? Shop stress-free for affordable goods in a welcoming environment.
Pro tip: Grab a fresh juice from a street vendor to sip while you browse.
9. Ba Hoa Market – A Taste of Central Vietnam
Located in Tan Binh District at Tran Mai Ninh, Ward 11, Ba Hoa Market is a culinary haven specializing in Quang Nam cuisine. Established in 1967, this market is a gathering place for Quang Nam natives and food lovers alike. Stalls brim with fresh ingredients and ready-to-eat dishes like bun rieu, banh beo, and Quang Nam-style noodles.
Its small size belies its vibrant energy, making it one of the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City for foodies seeking Central Vietnamese flavors.
Why visit? Dive into a mini Quang Nam town with authentic dishes and warm hospitality.
Pro tip: Try the mi Quang (Quang noodles) for a true taste of Central Vietnam.
10. Kim Bien Market – The Quirky Specialist
In District 5, Kim Bien Market is a niche standout among the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh. Known for its industrial goods like chemicals, dyes, and packaging materials, it also offers affordable household items and random finds.
While not a typical tourist destination, its eclectic inventory and low prices attract curious travelers and local businesses alike. The market’s unique focus and offbeat charm make it a fascinating detour for those exploring Saigon’s lesser-known corners.
Kim Bien Market, a niche market in Ho Chi Minh City with very affordable prices (Source: Collected)
Why visit? Uncover quirky bargains in a market unlike any other in Saigon.
Pro tip: Combine your visit with a stroll through nearby Cholon for a diverse day out.
11. Ho Thi Ky Flower Market – A Burst of Beauty
Tucked in District 10 at Alley 52, Ho Thi Ky, Ward 1, Ho Thi Ky Flower Market is a sensory delight and one of the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City. This wholesale flower market, vibrant day and night, is a riot of colors with roses, orchids, and lotuses sourced from Da Lat and the Mekong Delta. It supplies flowers for weddings, festivals, and home decor, creating a fragrant, photogenic scene. The adjacent food street offers banh mi, che, and other treats, making it a perfect stop for food and beauty.
Ho Thi Ky Flower Market – A famous market known for its fragrance and vibrant colors (source: Collected)
Why visit? Wander through a floral wonderland and indulge in delicious street food.
Pro tip: Visit at midnight to see the market in full swing with fresh flower deliveries.
II. Insider Tips for Navigating Saigon’s Markets
Master the art of bargaining: Negotiate politely but firmly, especially in tourist-heavy markets like Ben Thanh.
- Time your visit: Early mornings (6–9 AM) are best for fresh produce and fewer crowds, while evenings are ideal for night markets.
- Carry cash: Most vendors accept only Vietnamese Dong (VND), so bring small bills for convenience.
- Dress smart: Wear lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes to navigate crowded, sometimes humid markets.
- Embrace the food: Each market has unique culinary offerings—don’t miss the chance to try local specialties.
- Stay safe: Keep an eye on your belongings in busy markets and park motorbikes in designated areas.
The famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City are more than just places to shop, they’re living, breathing stories of Saigon’s past and present. Each market weaves together history, culture, and community, offering travelers a chance to connect with the city on a deeper level.
Pack your curiosity and dive into the famous markets in Ho Chi Minh—Saigon’s soul awaits!
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