Save your appetite and head to Ben Thanh Market in the evening where you can be served some real street style local food at one of the 20 or so eateries that surround the market building. Chefs will cook in front of you with an endless array of cuisine choices including vegetarian noodles, fresh seafood, crispy rice pancakes and steamed cakes. You will be in great local company as most of the places thrive with locals enjoying a bite to eat and a quick drink on their way home from work.

Visiting here is truly a good chance to explore the lifestyle and food culture of local people. For first-time visiting, you may be attracted by the outdoor and spacious indoor space with lined-up tables, which are arranged towards the street.

BEST TIME TO VISIT HO CHI MINH CITY

For shopping heaven head to the market preferably early morning to pick up some bargains including lacquer ware, bamboo goods, arts and crafts. Also on sale are clothes, textiles, luggage, watches and an assortment of electronic goods. Spices, nuts and local fruits heavily scent the air which is also filled with the chatter of tourists and locals haggling for bargains. Do note however that some items will be strictly fixed price.

If you are looking for a gift to friends, unique Vietnamese traditional handicrafts are the best. Especially, the country is famous for lacquerware and coconut dinnerware. Bowls, spoons, plates, chopsticks are always great gifts for friends and family. At Ben Thanh, you also can find fabulous fabric creations with threadwork embroidery and patchwork. If you prefer wood items, you can think of buying the handcrafted wooden boats and figurines here. Generally, you can find the best choices for fabric and wood crafts at Ben Thanh market. These handicrafts will be the best souvenirs to your friends and also the memory of Saigon, the most dynamic city in Vietnam.