Where to Enjoy Ho Chi Minh Markets Shopping

Ho Chi Minh markets shopping is a must for travelers who want to experience the city’s lively culture. From Ben Thanh Market with its souvenirs and street food, to Binh Tay Market rich in heritage architecture and wholesale textiles, each market offers a unique story. Visitors can explore handicrafts, coffee beans, vintage collectibles, and practice the local art of bargaining. With Vietpower Travel as your trusted guide, every shopping trip becomes more authentic, safe, and full of local insights.

1. Top Markets for Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market Ho Chi Minh

• Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM (inside stalls); 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (night market outside)
• What to buy & prices:
  • Souvenirs: conical hats, magnets, keychains (from 20,000 – 50,000 VND / item)
  • Clothing: T-shirts, dresses, scarves (100,000 – 250,000 VND)
  • Lacquerware & handicrafts (150,000 – 500,000 VND, depending on size)
  • Coffee beans & dried fruit (120,000 – 250,000 VND / kg)
• Highlights: Ben Thanh Market is one of the most iconic landmarks in District 1 and a place that every traveler can easily reach from central hotels. Inside, the large food court is always buzzing, where you can savor steaming bowls of phở for 50,000–70,000 VND, bánh mì for as little as 25,000 VND, or sweet chè desserts for around 20,000–30,000 VND. When evening falls, the atmosphere transforms as surrounding streets turn into lively night market expansion zones. Here, street food vendors and fashion stalls create a vibrant and colorful experience, making it a favorite stop for both locals and tourists.

Binh Tay Market (Cholon – Chinatown)

• Address: 57A Thap Muoi Street, Ward 2, District 6
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• What to buy & prices:
  • Spices, herbs, Chinese medicines (50,000 – 150,000 VND / pack)
  • Dried seafood: shrimp, squid, fish maw (300,000 – 1,000,000 VND / kg)
  • Textiles & fabrics (80,000 – 200,000 VND / meter, depending on quality)
  • Kitchenware & household items (50,000 – 200,000 VND)
• Highlights: Binh Tay Market is celebrated for its heritage market architecture, with curved Chinese-style tiled roofs and a serene inner courtyard. This market has long been known as a wholesale hub, where many vendors require bulk purchases of five to ten pieces for the best deals. Shoppers who stroll deeper inside will also discover a food court that serves hearty meals such as dim sum, hủ tiếu, and fluffy bánh bao at prices between 30,000–60,000 VND.

An Dong Market

• Address: An Duong Vuong Street, Ward 9, District 5
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• What to buy & prices:
  • Fabrics for ao dai, dresses, and tailoring (80,000 – 250,000 VND / meter)
  • Fashion items: handbags, shoes, dresses (150,000 – 400,000 VND)
  • Jewelry & accessories (100,000 – 500,000 VND)
  • Handicrafts & souvenirs (120,000 – 350,000 VND)
• Highlights: An Dong Market is a lively fashion center where both locals and travelers come to shop for fabrics and ready-to-wear clothes. What makes it even more appealing is the cultural element—on the upper floors, artisan workshops let you watch craftspeople creating lacquerware, embroidery, and wooden artworks. This balance between retail shopping and cultural encounters makes An Dong an engaging destination for visitors who want more than just shopping.

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Tan Dinh & Tan Binh Markets

Tan Dinh Market

• Address: 48 Ma Lo Street, Tan Dinh Ward, District 1
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• What to buy & prices:
  • Fabrics: silk, cotton, velvet, lace (100,000 – 300,000 VND / meter)
  • Fresh produce: fruits, spices, herbs (10,000 – 50,000 VND / portion)
  • Accessories for tailoring (buttons, zippers) (10,000 – 30,000 VND each)
• Highlights: Established in 1926, Tan Dinh Market stands out with its striking pink façade, a classic example of heritage market architecture in the city. Inside, it has earned the nickname “fabric heaven” thanks to endless rows of textiles. It is especially popular among those looking for materials to make a custom ao dai, a traditional Vietnamese dress.

Tan Binh Market

• Address: 172 Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Ward 8, Tan Binh District
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• What to buy & prices:
  • Textiles in bulk: polyester, cotton, wedding fabrics (70,000 – 150,000 VND / meter; wholesale min. 5–10 m)
  • Wedding accessories: gowns, veils, décor items (500,000 – 2,000,000 VND)
  • Household essentials: cookware, bedding, home décor (100,000 – 400,000 VND)
• Highlights: Tan Binh Market is one of the largest wholesale markets in the city, housing thousands of stalls filled with bulk fabrics and household items. Because many vendors operate under wholesale rules, buyers are often required to purchase in larger quantities to secure lower prices. Its location is also convenient—only about 10 minutes from Tan Son Nhat International Airport—making it a practical stop for business buyers or travelers with time before a flight.

2. Unique & Specialty Market Experiences

Let’s continue exploring more about Vietnam and all the incredible places it has to offer. Visit our Vietnam tourist attractions section to discover in-depth guides, travel ideas, and hidden gems across the country.

Specialty Ethnic Markets: Ba Hoa Market

• Location: Tran Mai Ninh Street, Tan Binh District
• Highlight: Known as the “mini Quang Nam” in Saigon, this market was built by migrants from Central Vietnam, bringing authentic Quang-style food and products.
• What to find & prices:
  • Quang noodles: 25,000 – 40,000 VND per bowl
  • Chili paste & fish sauce: 20,000 – 50,000 VND per bottle/jar
  • Central snacks like bánh bèo, bánh ít: 15,000 – 25,000 VND per portion
  • Fresh herbs from Quang Nam: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per bunch
• Why visit: Ideal for those craving authentic Central Vietnamese flavors without leaving Ho Chi Minh City.

Vintage Collectible Trading: Saigon Flea Markets

• Locations: Weekend flea markets in District 1 (e.g., Tôn Thất Thiệp) and District 3
• Highlight: A fun shopping space for retro enthusiasts, offering second-hand treasures and fashion trends from past decades.
• What to find & prices:
  • Y2K and retro clothing: 100,000 – 200,000 VND per piece
  • Vintage Levi’s jeans: from 250,000 VND upwards
  • Vinyl records & Polaroid cameras: 300,000 – 1,000,000 VND
  • Old furniture & décor: prices vary from 500,000 VND to several million
• Why visit: Popular among young locals and collectors who love hunting for nostalgic or rare items.

Antique Authentication Services: Le Cong Kieu Street

• Location: Le Cong Kieu Street, District 1 (near Ben Thanh area)
• Highlight: Called the “antique street” of Saigon, it is lined with small shops displaying treasures from Vietnam’s past.
• What to find & prices:
  • Ceramics, old bronze statues: 200,000 – 1,000,000 VND
  • Ancient coins, stamps, and war memorabilia: from 200,000 VND to several million
  • Antique books & scrolls: typically 500,000 – 2,000,000 VND
• Why visit: Several shops offer antique authentication services, helping buyers ensure their items are genuine. It’s a must-see for history lovers and collectors.

Artisan Demonstration Workshops

• Locations: Upper floors of An Dong Market (District 5) and traditional craft houses in Cholon
• Highlight: A cultural experience where travelers can watch artisans working on traditional crafts.
• What to find & prices:
  • Lacquer paintings: 300,000 – 800,000 VND depending on size
  • Embroidered scarves & handbags: 150,000 – 400,000 VND
  • Wooden crafts and small decorative items: 100,000 – 300,000 VND
• Why visit: A rewarding way to witness Vietnamese artistry first-hand and purchase directly from the creators, ensuring authenticity and quality.

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3. Smart Tips for Ho Chi Minh Markets Shopping

Morning Price Bargaining

Arrive early if possible. Many vendors believe that their first customer of the day brings luck, so they are more open to offering lower prices. This tradition, often called the “morning price,” gives you a chance to secure good deals while enjoying the fresh and lively atmosphere.

Always Carry Cash and Small Notes

Most market stalls do not accept cards. Keep Vietnamese đồng in smaller denominations (10,000 – 50,000 VND) to make transactions quicker and smoother. This is especially handy in places like Ben Thanh Market Ho Chi Minh, where bargaining is common and exact change is appreciated.

Browse Multiple Stalls Before Buying

Don’t rush to purchase at the first stall you see. Similar items are usually available throughout the market, often at varying prices. Walk around, compare, and then return to the stall that offers the best value. This also gives you room to practice your bargaining skills.

Respect Wholesale Quantity Requirements

In wholesale markets such as Binh Tay or Tan Binh, many sellers apply minimum purchase rules. For example, fabrics or clothing might only be sold in sets of 5–10 pieces. Respecting these rules helps you avoid confusion and ensures smoother communication with vendors.

Stay Safe in Crowded Areas

Markets can get packed, especially during weekends or evening hours. Always keep your belongings close, use a cross-body bag, and avoid displaying valuable items like jewelry or large amounts of cash. Staying alert will make your shopping experience enjoyable and stress-free.

4. FAQs – Ho Chi Minh Markets Shopping

Which is the best market for shopping in Ho Chi Minh?

It depends on what you are looking for. Ben Thanh Market Ho Chi Minh is the city’s most iconic spot, perfect for souvenirs and local food. For wholesale textiles, head to Tan Binh or An Dong. If you’re after cultural experiences, Binh Tay Market in Chinatown offers both shopping and traditional Chinese-style architecture.

What is “morning price bargaining” and how does it work?

In many markets, sellers believe the first transaction of the day brings good fortune. This means early shoppers often receive better deals. To take advantage, arrive in the morning, make a polite offer, and vendors are more likely to agree since they see you as their “lucky” customer.

Where can I buy authentic vintage collectibles?

Weekend flea markets in District 1 and District 3 are great for retro clothing, vinyl records, and posters. For antiques such as ceramics, coins, or war memorabilia, Le Cong Kieu Street is well-known. Many shops here even provide authentication services to confirm an item’s originality.

Do markets have wholesale quantity requirements?

Yes. In larger wholesale markets like Tan Binh and Binh Tay, many vendors sell in bulk rather than individual pieces. For example, clothing or fabrics may need to be purchased in sets of 5–10. Retail customers can still shop here, but they should ask clearly about minimum purchase rules.

Are there cultural preservation initiatives at local markets?

Yes. Several traditional markets are part of cultural preservation efforts. For example, Ba Hoa Market maintains Central Vietnamese food culture, while craft workshops in An Dong help keep traditional lacquerware and embroidery alive. These markets act as living spaces where heritage is actively maintained and shared with the public.

5. Conclusion

Exploring Ho Chi Minh markets shopping means more than finding good deals—it is about immersing in traditions, flavors, and artisan craftsmanship. From the fabrics of Tan Dinh Market to the bustling atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market, every stop reflects the vibrant identity of Saigon. Vietpower Travel ensures your journey through these markets is seamless, enriching, and truly memorable. Book your Vietnam tour today and discover the best of Saigon’s markets with confidence.

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