Being a bustling market in the daytime and a social center after sunset, Ben Thanh Market is absolutely a must-see attraction of the most dynamic city of Vietnam. The market has something for everyone, from handicrafts, textiles, “Áo dài” and souvenirs to delicious local cuisine.

Formally established by the French colonial powers after taking over the Gia Dinh citadel in 1859, it was developed from informal markets created by early 17th century street vendors gathering together near the Saigon River. It was then destroyed by fire in 1870 and rebuilt to become Saigon’s largest market. In 1912 the market was moved to a new building and called the New Ben Thanh Market to distinguish over its predecessor.