Where is Ben Thanh Market located?
Many people wonder where Ben Thanh Market is located . For first-time visitors, Ben Thanh Market is situated on Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. The main entrance faces Quach Thi Trang Square. A prominent architectural feature that has become a symbol of Ben Thanh Market is the three-faced clock tower, also known as the South Gate. Ben Thanh Market is open from 4 AM to 7 PM and is always bustling with shoppers and visitors. However, for the best experience, you should visit during rush hour to fully appreciate the atmosphere.
Ben Thanh Market is located in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
When was Ben Thanh Market established?
Throughout its centuries-old history, Ben Thanh Market has become a distinctive symbol of Saigon. However, not everyone knows the origin of its name. Originally, the market was located next to a river port, frequently receiving travelers and soldiers entering the city, hence the name Ben Thanh Market. Intended for trade and exchange of essential goods, Ben Thanh Market existed even before the French colonial period, bustling with countless people and boats carrying goods on the river. However, during the French occupation, the market was burned down and took a year to restore in its original location. After a long period of use, the market gradually deteriorated and was in danger of collapsing at any time, so the French rebuilt it after filling in a swampy pond called Bo Ret. From 1912, it took another two years for the French contractor Brossard et Maupin to complete the project. The old architecture has been preserved to this day, even though Ben Thanh Market underwent a major renovation and repair in 1985.
Ben Thanh Market in the last century
When is the best time to visit Ben Thanh Market?
Ben Thanh Market is open from 4 AM to 7 PM. It's always bustling with shoppers and visitors. However, for the best experience, you should visit during rush hour to fully appreciate the atmosphere. Specifically, visitors should go to Ben Thanh Market during these two time periods:- From 7:30 AM to 6:00 PM: This is the main opening time of the market, so you can come to visit and shop.
- After 7 PM: It's often said that Saigon comes alive at night. Indeed, if you want to experience a glimpse of Saigon at night, head to Ben Thanh Market after 7 PM. You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the bustling crowds and feel the vibrant rhythm of this city.
How to get to Ben Thanh Market
Along with the question " Where is Ben Thanh Market ?", how to get there is also a concern for many tourists. When visiting a new city or place for the first time, the unfamiliar transportation can be overwhelming. To ensure you "get to the right place and back," tourists should research information beforehand and plan the most suitable route. To get to Ben Thanh Market, you can choose to travel by bus, motorbike, car, or taxi.- Bus routes 03, 04, 152, 19, 20, 39, 53, 93, and 96 pass by Ben Thanh Market. The nearest bus stop is only a few hundred meters from the market. After getting off the bus, it's a short walk to the market. This allows you to stroll around Saigon while saving money.
- Motorbikes and cars: Traveling by motorbike or private car gives you more control over your schedule, time, and comfort. However, because Ben Thanh Market is always crowded and bustling, visitors need to find parking. Parking fees here range from about 10,000 to 20,000 VND. Before parking, you should ask for the price beforehand to avoid being overcharged.
- Taxi: If you're unfamiliar with Saigon's streets, a taxi is the most suitable option. On hot days in Saigon, traveling by taxi is ideal.
What are the entrances to Ben Thanh Market?
You may not know this, but Ben Thanh Market has 4 main entrances and 12 side entrances radiating in various directions. This number and design are intended to meet the shopping needs and traffic of a large number of tourists coming from different directions. Therefore, each main entrance of Ben Thanh Market is located on a major street. Specifically, as follows:- South Gate: This is the famous three-faced clock tower gate – an iconic image of Ben Thanh Market. The South Gate of Ben Thanh Market is located opposite Quach Thi Trang Park, on Le Loi Street. This is a popular check-in spot for tourists. From the South Gate, you can explore the dry goods stalls, especially the colorful fabric stalls.
- East Gate: The East Gate faces Phan Boi Chau Street. This is where cosmetic products are sold in the market.
- West Gate: Focuses on handicrafts and souvenirs. The West Gate of Ben Thanh Market is located on Phan Chu Trinh Street.
- North Gate: This area, primarily selling fresh flowers and fruits, is located on Le Thanh Tong Street.
Ben Thanh Market is large in scale with many entrances located on various streets.
What makes Ben Thanh Market so attractive?
If you had a day to explore Ben Thanh Market, what would you do? This is a common question for many first-time visitors who don't know where Ben Thanh Market is or what attractions it has to offer. So, let's explore it together with Khat Vong Viet!Diverse goods
As one of the largest markets in Ho Chi Minh City, the first thing that comes to mind when mentioning Ben Thanh Market is its diverse range of goods. Here, visitors feel like they've entered a world of fashion , handicrafts, art, household goods, electronics, and souvenirs. You can find almost any affordable item you're looking for.
Market stalls
Unique cuisine
Ben Thanh Market offers a wide variety of famous and delicious dishes at incredibly cheap prices. From vermicelli, noodles, pho, sticky rice, and more, to street food, visitors can take a food tour within the confines of Ben Thanh Market.
Food stalls at Ben Thanh Market
Night market
When Saigon lights up at night, Ben Thanh Market comes alive in a unique way. It's called the night market. Visiting Ben Thanh Market without exploring the night market would be a huge oversight. While still selling the same goods, the Ben Thanh night market is even more vibrant in its culinary offerings. Hot pot and barbecue restaurants, seafood stalls, and food vendors are packed with customers. Rain or shine, the night market is always bustling. In the rhythm of a city that never sleeps, the Ben Thanh night market shines brightly. If you have the chance, come here to enjoy the atmosphere and savor the delicious, nutritious, and affordable food.
Ben Thanh Market at night: A culinary paradise.
Beautiful architecture
One of the things that makes Ben Thanh Market attractive to tourists is its unique and iconic architecture. Most prominent is the South Gate with its three-faced clock tower, built in the French architectural style, bearing the words "BEN THANH MARKET" below. The market has four main gates, each adorned with ceramic reliefs. These works were designed and executed by artist Le Van Mau, a lecturer at the Bien Hoa School of Fine Arts, and reflect a strong Vietnamese identity. Thus, the architecture of Ben Thanh Market demonstrates cultural exchange and showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of skilled artisans. This unique architecture makes Ben Thanh Market a popular check-in spot for every tourist visiting Ho Chi Minh City.
The unique architecture of Ben Thanh Market
Shopping experience at Ben Thanh Market
Based on our experience visiting Ben Thanh Market, here are some things to keep in mind for tourists:- When shopping at Ben Thanh Market, tourists should bargain to avoid overpaying and save money.
- The goods in the market are quite diverse in both design and quality. To buy good products, you should visit crowded shops or go with someone experienced.
- You should bring cash when shopping at Ben Thanh Market for convenience.
- When shopping and exploring the market, be sure to protect your personal belongings. The bustling atmosphere of the market always provides opportunities for thieves and pickpockets.
- Please pay attention to safety while traveling and crossing the road.
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