Ben Thanh Market has stood the test of time and lived to make the sale

One of the earliest surviving structures in Saigon and an old symbol of the city, Ben Thanh Market is a great place to buy handicrafts, ao dai (traditional Vietnamese clothing), textiles, and souvenirs.  

I simply love to stroll through the market and observe the local way of life. Prices here are often inflated up to two or three times, so don’t be afraid to bargain! 

Main gate of Ben Thanh Market, situated at the central roundabout near 23/9 Park.

 

Lively view from the Northern Gate, where local people are shopping for their meals.

 

A closer look at the market’s Western Gate.

 

Ben Thanh Market is the best place to buy some souvenirs home.

 

Outside the market, people can easily find Xe Om (motorcycle taxi) to commute to different places at reasonable prices.