Who would skip budget shopping in Ho Chi Minh? You might think there are only luxury finds in this metropolis, however, if you know where to go you’ll surely find markets that will give you bang for the buck items.
Hanh Thong Tay Market
Nestled in the Quang Trung Street in Go Vap District this market was established on September 2, 2002, with a construction budget of 60 billion VND housing 440 fixed stalls. The market is 2,358 sq m in width and 1,225 sq m wide.
Hanh Thong Tay is known to be a place for affordable yet quality finds in Ho Chi Minh. They appeal mostly to students, workers and locals. The market offers both shopping and food options for its customers. With an array of goods to sell from clothes, bags to several accessories.
One good thing to do in this market is that you can haggle without being blasphemed compared to other markets. Sellers are full of enthusiasm and very welcoming. However, be mindful of your valuables when going to Hanh Thong Tay as snatchers roam around the area.
The Saigon Flea Market
Found in 2011 by a media representative/designer/blogger – Moon Doan, the market started with fashion and beauty products. It has evolved into a creative community 6 years after its foundation.
The market became the first vintage and handmade market in the country – an alternative shopping hub for both locals and expats. Situated in the Phu My Hung district, it houses several highly skilled craftsmen and their unique art. Through this, the Saigon flea market became a go-to place for arts and crafts enthusiasts and general shoppers.
If this market triggered your curiosity, it is located at Boomerang Restaurant, Crescent Mall, Phu My Hung, District 7 every 1st and 3rd Sunday of the month, and at Riviera Point every 2nd Sunday. It’s open from 11 AM to 7 PM.
Hello Weekend Market
This market has leveled up their shopping experience for their customers. From its quality products, customer care and the vibe of the place itself.
Hello Weekend market boasts an overwhelming selection of clothes, shoes, bags, or beauty stalls. Not to mention on top of these stalls are food shops that will surely satisfy a craving belly. The dishes that can be found in this market are usually Vietnamese street food and a mixture of Asian to Western. And while you’re enjoying your meal, be entertained by live performances – if you get lucky, the market sometimes has famous artists perform. The perfect way to shop!
Hello Weekend Market is held at two places: at Hoa Lu Stadium, 2 Dinh Tien Hoang, District 1, and sometimes at Vietopia, District 7. It is held on the weekend from 9 am to 9 pm.
Shopping Streets
While exploring Ho Chi Minh, you might end up seeing street vendors selling affordable clothes and some accessories.
Street selling has been an essential part of the locals in the country and you will surely find various products being offered along the way. However, if you find anything you like, be street smart and try to negotiate with the price.
The streets in Ho Chi Minh magically transforms at night as most of these street vendors set up their stalls at night and are usually located at popular streets like Nguyen Trai (District 5), Cach Mang Thang Tam (District 10), Quang Trung (Go Vap District), Hai Ba Trung (District 1), Le Van Sy, Cao Thang and Nguyen Dinh Chieu (District 3).
