Ben Thanh Market (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Ben Thanh Market?
What makes it 45% Baby-Friendly: Babies are allowed, but cramped lanes, no diaper tables, no nursing room and stroller difficulties require a carrier and frequent breaks; many parents find malls easier.
Positives:
- Free Entry: No admission fee makes walking in with a baby stress-free
- Central Location: Close to District 1 hotels and taxi routes for quick transfers
Challenges:
- Crowded Aisles: Narrow lanes fill with shoppers, so a carrier is easier than a stroller
- Limited Baby Facilities: No changing tables or nursing rooms; bring a portable mat
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 with baby?
- Use a baby carrier to navigate busy aisles
- Sample colorful fresh fruit and street snacks
- Rest in the indoor food court for feedings and quick changes
- Bargain for lightweight souvenirs your baby can hold
- Visit early for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Note: Ben Thanh Market is 45% Baby-Friendly. You may want to consider other Baby-Friendly Things to Do in Ho Chi Minh City for a more suitable experience.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Enough time to browse stalls, sample food and shop without overwhelming your baby
Baby-Friendly Activities in Ben Thanh Market
Navigate with a Baby Carrier:
Use a soft carrier instead of a stroller to move through narrow aisles easily.
Tip: Adjust straps before entering and keep your baby close to your chest
Sample Fresh Fruit Cups:
Try mango, dragon fruit or jackfruit cups at the North Gate.
Tip: Ask vendors for small portions and ensure fruit is freshly cut
Snack Break in Food Court:
Rest on benches while tasting banh xeo or che ba mau.
Tip: Choose a quiet corner for feeding or a quick diaper change
Toy Souvenir Hunt:
Let your baby select a small toy from souvenir stalls.
Tip: Pick light items and bargain down to 10 000–20 000 VND
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ben Thanh Market
- Arrive Early: Beat the crowds and heat by visiting between 6 AM and 9 AM
- Pack Light: Carry only essentials in a small backpack to move swiftly
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 November–April for lower humidity and fewer rain showers. Avoid midday heat by coming before 9 AM.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Entrance | VND 0 |
| Fresh fruit cup | VND 30,000 |
| Food court snack | VND 50,000 |
| Toy souvenir | VND 20,000 |
| Restroom fee | VND 5,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 105,000 |
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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