Ben Thanh Market – A Timeless Symbol of Trade and Culture in Saigon

Ben Thanh Market, a century-old icon of Ho Chi Minh City, originated as a small riverside market along the Ben Nghe River in 1870. It was relocated and rebuilt at its current site in 1912 and officially inaugurated in 1914. Featuring distinctive French colonial architecture, a floor area of about 13,000 square meters, a signature clock tower, and four main gates opening onto central streets, the market stands as one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.

More than just a bustling shopping center, Ben Thanh Market serves as a cultural crossroads—a place where visitors can fully experience the rhythm and flavors of Saigon. Its over 1,500 stalls offer a wide variety of goods, including clothing, handicrafts, local specialties, fresh produce, and traditional Vietnamese dishes such as bánh xèo (crispy pancakes), bún thịt nướng (grilled pork with vermicelli), and gỏi cuốn (fresh spring rolls).

With its airy design, prime location, and vibrant atmosphere, Ben Thanh Market is not only a commercial hub but also a historic and cultural symbol, reflecting the spirit and soul of Saigon — a dynamic and welcoming city.

Source:  Cẩm Nang Du Lịch, Vietnam Airlines

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