What time does the Ben Thanh market open?

Ben Thanh Market operates with distinct hours: the Day Market runs from about 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, selling fresh goods, clothing, and crafts, while the Night Market transforms the surrounding streets from 6:00 PM to roughly 10:00 PM, focusing on food stalls and souvenirs.

What time to visit Ben Thanh Market?

Best Time to Visit. Morning (7:30 AM – 11:00 AM): The market is at its most authentic in the morning when locals are doing their daily shopping. It's also less crowded and cooler. Evening (After 6:00 PM): While the main building closes, the streets around it transform into the Ben Thanh Night Market.

Do you need cash for Ben Thanh Market?

Local Tips for Visiting Ben Thanh Market

Carry cash: Most stalls only accept cash, so make sure to have enough Vietnamese dong on hand.

Is Ben Thanh Market worth it?

Ben Thanh Market offers a lively shopping experience with its bustling atmosphere and central location, making it convenient for travelers. Many visitors appreciate the vibrant sights and potential for bargaining, although some warn of inflated prices and aggressive vendors.

What to do at Ben Thanh Market?

Ben Thanh Market has around 3,000 stalls, selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts and souvenirs.

• North Gate: Fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, seafood, and flowers. The wet market operates until midday.
• Inside the Market: A variety of electronics, clothes, jewelry, shoes, and food.

DO NOT shop at BEN THANH market - TOP 5 UNIQUE MARKETS in SAIGON

Is there food available at Ben Thanh Market?

At Ben Thanh Market, there are around 3,000 stalls, selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts and souvenirs. You can also enjoy authentic Vietnamese cuisine, like broken rice, grilled seafood, and sweet soup, all prepared fresh at the food stalls.

What is a must buy in Vietnam?

Vietnam Ethnic Handicraft

You could find a wide range of handicrafts from scarves, bags, clothes, paintings, textiles, etc. with diverse styles and patterns because of the distinctive culture of different ethnic groups. If you're truly into the exotic cultures of Vietnam, then it's an ideal gift to buy.

How do you bargain at Ben Thanh Market?

2) Always let the traders mentioned the price first. Then discount it by 66.67% of it and work yourself up to the equibrilium. 3) Preset your own reserve price so that you can walked away if the traders refused to match your price. Don't worry, if your reserved price was not matched by them just walked away.

Is 50k inr enough for Vietnam?

You can pick popular itineraries like the Vietnam Tour Package with Flights (4 days) at ₹ 50,057 or opt for immersive journeys like the Vietnam Highlights with FREE Ban Gioc Waterfall Tour (7 days) at ₹ 48,714.

What items are not allowed in Vietnam?

Prohibited items include:

• Explosives and items containing explosives.
• Flammable substances in the form of gases, liquids or solids.
• Oxidizers, organic peroxides and related items.
• Corrosives, infectious or toxic substances and related items.
• Radioactive materials, magnetized materials.

What is the most expensive month to visit Vietnam?

Prices spike for the holiday season around December and January which are when tourist numbers are highest.

How much is 1 pound to a dong?

£ 1 GBP = ₫ 35236.8239 VND

Last updated Monday, 19 January 2026 13:53. Rates shown are interbank rates. eurochange rates will differ.

What can I buy with 5,000 dong in Vietnam?

Street Snacks - A Paradise Starting from Just 5,000 Vietnamese Dong. Banh trang tron, bubble tea, fried fermented pork rolls, Vietnamese sweet soup (che thap cam)… all can be found for just 5,000 to 25,000 Vietnamese Dong per item. With 100,000 Vietnamese Dong, you can enjoy a true “street food buffet” experience!

Is it better to use card or cash in Vietnam?

Most Vietnamese locals primarily use cash, but card payments are becoming increasingly more popular. If you're going to be travelling to well-known tourist areas, you'll be able to pay for almost everything by card. However, there are still certain situations when you might need cash.

How to avoid stomach issues in Vietnam?

Eat only foods that are cooked and served hot. Avoid food that has been sitting on a buffet. Eat raw fruits and vegetables only if you have washed them in clean water or peeled them. Only drink beverages from factory-sealed containers, and avoid ice because it may have been made from unclean water.

What do Vietnamese eat for breakfast?

Top 20 Vietnamese Breakfast Dishes: What Locals Eat Every Morning

• Pho Bo (Beef Noodle Soup)
• Banh Mi (Vietnamese Sandwich)
• Xoi (Sticky Rice)
• Banh Cuon (Steamed Rice Rolls)
• Bun Bo Hue (Spicy Beef Noodle Soup)
• Banh Mi Op La (Fried Egg Sandwich)
• Hu Tieu (Rice Noodle Soup)
• Com Tam (Broken Rice)

Is it rude to not finish food in Vietnam?

Keep noises low and finish the food on your plate; wasting is impolite. Wait for the host or elderly to start eating and stay until most have finished. Avoid picking through shared dishes to choose your favorite piece, as it is considered rude.