Bến Thành Market Plaza

Address: Le Loi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Hours: Day market 6:00am-6:00pm; night market 6:00pm-11:00pm

Admission: Free entry to market; shopping costs vary

Bến Thành Market is a central, historic market in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 and one of the city’s best-known commercial and tourist hubs. The distinctive market hall with its clock tower dates from 1914, though the site has hosted markets for much longer.

Inside the main hall and in surrounding streets shoppers find fresh produce, prepared foods, clothing, textiles, handicrafts and souvenir goods across hundreds of small stalls. An active night market operates on the adjacent streets in the evenings, turning the precinct into a lively dining and shopping area.

The market functions as both a local trading centre and a major destination for visitors; it has long been central to urban life in Ho Chi Minh City and remains within easy walking distance of other central landmarks and transport links.

The market sits in the heart of District 1, close to major boulevards and transport hubs, making it straightforward to reach from most central hotels and attractions.

• History and tips: The current market building was completed in 1914 and the site has served as a central city marketplace for much longer; bargaining is common in many stalls and the market is busiest in the evening.
• Location tip: Located in District 1, the market is within walking distance of major city sights and is often used as a hub for taxis and local transport.

What to See#

• Main market hall: The large indoor market hall with a central clock tower and multiple aisles of stalls selling food, clothing, textiles and handicrafts; the building dates from the early 20th century.
• Night market: A nightly market that sets up on the streets outside the main building, offering prepared food and souvenirs in the evenings and making the area one of the city’s liveliest after dark.

Bến Thành Market sits in District 1 and is a short walk from Saigon’s central Nguyen Hue and Le Loi streets. The nearest metro station is Ben Thanh (Line 1); motorbike taxis and regular city buses also stop nearby.

• Arrive before 9am to see the wholesale produce and the local bustle; the night market around the perimeter is liveliest after 7pm.
• Haggle politely at stalls selling souvenirs and textiles; have small change in Vietnamese đồng.
• Sample bánh mì, fresh coffee and local chè at food stalls on the market's east side - long queues often mark the best stalls.