Ben Thanh Market (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is Ben Thanh Market?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples can sample Vietnamese dishes, hunt souvenirs and take clock-tower photos together; heat, noise and haggling can tire those seeking a quiet date.
Positives:
- Free Entry: No ticket needed; you can enter and leave as you wish.
- Central Location: Located in District 1, near other key attractions and public transport.
- All-in-One Experience: Combine shopping, snacking, and photography in a single stop.
Challenges:
- Crowded Aisles: Expect tight spaces at peak times; leave valuables secured.
- Price Negotiation: Vendors expect haggling; carrying small bills helps smooth transactions.
- Limited Seating: Food court benches fill quickly; stand at the stall counter for quick bites.
What is Ben Thanh Market?
- A covered marketplace dating from the early 20th century French colonial era
- A distinctive iron-and-concrete hall topped by a red-tiled roof and housing hundreds of vendors offering textiles, handicrafts, fresh produce and local specialties
- A central urban landmark that reflects Ho Chi Minh City’s commercial vitality and cultural heritage
What is so special about Ben Thanh Market for couple trip?
- Snap clock tower selfies and hidden-alley shots
- Share ca phe sua da and fresh fruit treats
- Haggle for silk, lacquerware, and souvenirs
- Explore the vibrant night market after 6 PM
- Easy entry and central to other District 1 sights
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time to browse stalls, sample treats, and take photos without rushing.
Couple-Friendly Activities in Ben Thanh Market
Clock Tower Photo:
Snap a couples’ selfie at the South Gate clock tower landmark.
Tip: Arrive when light is soft (early morning or late afternoon) for better photos.
Stroll the Four Gates:
Walk each gate section to see textiles, fresh produce, coffee, and crafts.
Tip: Start at the North Gate for fresh fruit and end at the South Gate for souvenirs.
Vietnamese Coffee Date:
Share a ca phe sua da (iced coffee with condensed milk) from a market vendor.
Tip: Ask for less sugar if you prefer a milder taste and stir well before sipping.
Handicraft Bargaining:
Haggle for lacquerware, silk scarves, and ao dai with friendly vendors.
Tip: Offer half the asking price and meet in the middle; smile and stay polite.
Hidden Alley Photos:
Find the colorful alley behind the main hall for a romantic backdrop.
Tip: Look for painted walls and vintage signs; small crowds make quick shots easier.
Night Market Stroll:
After 6 PM, explore street food stalls and souvenir carts around the market.
Tip: Try banh mi or spring rolls; use a headlamp app to shine on menus in low light.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ben Thanh Market
- Time Your Visit: Go at opening (6–8 AM) or after 7 PM to avoid heavy crowds and heat.
- South Gate Start: Use the South Gate entrance to orient yourself and grab iconic photos first.
- Set a Meeting Point: Choose a gate name as a rendezvous spot in case you separate.
Reviews of Ben Thanh Market
yumz
ben thanh market is giving full sensory overload in the best way possible THE SHOPPING SITUATION this iconic spot is pure chaos but in a good way. the stalls are packed with everything from vintage ao dai to lacquerware that actually slaps. bargaining is expected, so bring your a-game. THE FOOD COURT VIBES the indoor food section is lowkey fire with stalls serving everything from proper pho to b...
Ron T.
Ben Thanh Market is definitely a well-known spot in Ho Chi Minh City, especially for tourists. If you are looking for souvenirs, small gifts or general tchotchkes to bring home, you will find plenty of options here. It is busy, colorful and full of energy, which some people might really enjoy. For me personally, I did not find it particularly interesting. Most of the items felt very tourist orien...
James Marosek
This market is definitely worth seeing, but if you don’t mind wandering through the city you’ll find much better offers. You’ll notice the vendors are far more aggressive than other markets. Everyone is friendly though and they’re eager to sell. If you’re willing to bargain you can get really good deals. I’ll admit, I’m not so good at bargaining.
CS Chai
Ben Thanh Market is one of the must-visit places Ho Chi Minh City. It is one of Vietnam’s most famous and historic markets. Built in 1914, it offers a vibrant mix of local goods—clothes, bags, shoes, dried food, nuts, fresh fruits, coffee powder, souvenirs, handicrafts, and street foods. The market’s bustling atmosphere makes it a lively and interesting place. Bargaining is necessary when you are ...
Kaveh Shahidi
A nice market with a high energy vibe! There are many shops of many different kinds of products. There's also a food court for your heart's delight. The food was very inexpensive and good. There are many styles competing for your patronage so you will have many food options to choose from with highly reasonable prices. It's also shoppers paradise for cheap bargains. Notice I said bargains because ...
When is the best time to visit Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam)?
Visit during the dry season (November–April) to avoid sudden rain. In hot months (May–October), shop early or after 6 PM when it cools down.
Explore These Activities
Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Clock Tower photo | VND 0 |
| Vietnamese iced coffee (2 cups) | VND 50,000 |
| Fresh juice or ice cream (2 servings) | VND 60,000 |
| Souvenir item | VND 300,000 |
| Evening street food | VND 200,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 610,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Ben Thanh Market
Address: Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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