Top Things To Do In Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)) In 2026 - 2027

Top 9 things to do in Ben Thanh Market

1. 1. Street Food Tasting Tour

   Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Ben Thanh Market while indulging in some of the most delicious street food that Ho Chi Minh City has to offer. This guided tour will take you through the bustling aisles of the market where you'll have the chance to try a variety of local specialties, including dishes like banh mi, fresh spring rolls, and sweet treats. Learn about the ingredients and history behind each dish from your knowledgeable guide and get a taste of the local culture through its cuisine. As one of the focal points of food culture in Saigon, the market's food stalls are a must-visit for any foodie.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: VND 500,000 - 1,000,000

2. 2. Handicraft Shopping Spree

   Ben Thanh Market is a paradise for those looking to take home a piece of Vietnamese handicraft. Dive into a world of colorful fabrics, hand-woven textiles, intricate lacquerware, and delicate ceramics. With endless rows of stalls, you'll have ample opportunity to find authentic souvenirs such as silk scarves, traditional Ao Dai tunics, bamboo products, and hand-painted art. Haggling is part of the experience, so be ready to bargain with the friendly vendors. It’s not only a shopping spree but also a unique way to connect with local artisans and understand their crafts.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Varies depending on purchase

3. 3. Coffee Culture Exploration

   Vietnamese coffee is world-renowned, and Ben Thanh Market boasts several stalls where you can savor this rich beverage. Begin your exploration with a traditional phin filter coffee, enjoy a refreshing iced coffee, or be adventurous and try an egg coffee. As you sip, take in the market's dynamic atmosphere and observe the locals going about their daily routines. This is more than just a coffee break; it's an immersive experience into the heart and soul of Vietnam's coffee tradition.

4. 4. Vietnamese Cooking Class

   If you're captivated by the local cuisine, why not learn to make it yourself with a Vietnamese cooking class? Starting with a market tour to collect fresh ingredients, you’ll get a crash course in Vietnamese flavors and food preparation. The hands-on class led by a professional chef will teach you how to create classic Vietnamese dishes, which you'll then enjoy as part of your meal. It's an engaging and appetizing way to bring a piece of Vietnamese culture back home with you.

5. 5. Cultural Performance

   Occasionally, Ben Thanh Market becomes a stage for cultural performances and folk art, especially during festivals or tourist seasons. Catch a glimpse of traditional music, dance, and theatrical acts that tell the tales of Vietnam's rich history and heritage. These performances are incredibly colorful and offer a great way to take a break from shopping and immeruspend, taking in the vibrant cultural scenes.

6. 6. Night Market Adventure

   When the sun sets, the area around Ben Thanh Market transforms into a bustling night market. Stalls spill out onto the surrounding streets, offering an array of goods and an entirely different vibe compared to the daytime. You'll find a wide range of street food options here—from seafood to barbecue skewers and sweet desserts. Take a stroll through the night market to shop for souvenirs or simply soak up the lively atmosphere and enjoy the cooler evening temperatures.

7. 7. Flower Market Visit

   Although technically not within Ben Thanh Market, the nearby Ho Thi Ky flower market offers a wonderful compliment to your market day. As the largest wholesale flower market in Ho Chi Minh City, it's a treat for the senses, bursting with colors and fragrances. You can browse or buy bunches of fresh flowers, local as well as imported, and even learn about the symbolic meanings behind different blooms from the friendly vendors.

8. 8. Traditional Vietnamese Hat Embroidery

   Experience the delicate art of hat embroidery with a local artisan at Ben Thanh Market. Customize your very own traditional Vietnamese hat, known as a 'non la', by choosing a design and watching the skilled embroiderer at work. This personalized souvenir is not only a unique piece of art but also a functional keepsake that will remind you of the bustling market and the local culture.

9. 9. Local Spice Discovery

   Venture into the world of Vietnamese spices and herbs with a guided tour around Ben Thanh Market's dedicated spice section. Learn about the essential ingredients that make Vietnamese cuisine so flavorful and unique. You can purchase high-quality saffron, cinnamon, star anise, and various dried herbs to take your own cooking to the next level or to give as aromatic gifts to friends and family back home.