Ben Thanh Market (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Ben Thanh Market?
What makes it 63% Kids-Friendly: Kids enjoy fruit tastings and trinket bargaining, yet narrow aisles, motorbike-filled perimeter streets and no play area mean constant supervision and limited rest spots.
Positives:
- No entry fee: You only pay for food or goods you buy.
- Varied stalls: A mix of foods, crafts, and souvenirs keeps kids interested.
Challenges:
- Crowded aisles: Hold kids’ hands in narrow, busy lanes.
- Noise and heat: Take breaks; bring water and damp cloths to cool down.
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 kids?
- Kids love colorful fruit cups and simple haggling games.
- No entry fee; you only pay for what you buy.
- Photo ops at the clock tower and vibrant market lanes.
- Short visit fits young kids’ attention spans.
Recommended visit duration: 1–2 hours
Why 1–2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Short visit lets kids try snacks and pick souvenirs without getting tired.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Ben Thanh Market
Clock Tower Photo Spot:
Take a family photo at the famous South Gate clock tower.
Tip: Go early to avoid crowds and get a clear shot.
Fresh-Fruit Tasting:
Enjoy colorful cups of mango, dragon fruit, or jackfruit.
Tip: Buy at the North Gate stalls and share among kids.
Food-Court Snack Hunt:
Try banh xeo or che ba mau in the central food court.
Tip: Order small portions so everyone can sample multiple treats.
Mini-Toy Bargaining:
Let kids pick trinkets and haggle for fun.
Tip: Start with a low offer and smile to keep it playful.
Treasure-Hunt Walk:
Explore lanes to find stalls by color or spice aroma.
Tip: Make a simple checklist to keep kids engaged.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Ben Thanh Market
- Visit early: Arrive by 7 AM to avoid crowds and high temperatures.
- Set a meeting point: Agree on a gate landmark in case anyone wanders off.
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)?
During the dry season (Dec–Apr), visit early (7–9 AM) to beat heat. During Tet (Jan–Feb), some stalls change hours or offer special decorations.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fresh-fruit cups (4) | VND 120,000 |
| Food-court snacks (4) | VND 240,000 |
| Mini toys (2) | VND 60,000 |
| Souvenir item | VND 200,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 620,000 |
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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