Vietnamese Markets: A Shopper's Guide from Hanoi to Saigon

Vietnamese Markets: A Shopper's Guide from Hanoi to Saigon

Vietnam's markets range from Hanoi's centuries-old Dong Xuan to Ho Chi Minh City's tourist-friendly Ben Thanh, each offe...

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HolidaySG Travel Team

September 14, 2026

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Vietnam's markets range from Hanoi's centuries-old Dong Xuan to Ho Chi Minh City's tourist-friendly Ben Thanh, each offering a different shopping experience and level of bargaining culture. We researched what to buy and where across the country's best markets.

ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport - HolidaySG
Vietnamese Markets: A Shopper's Guide from Hanoi to Saigon

Vietnam's markets range from Hanoi's centuries-old Dong Xuan to Ho Chi Minh City's tourist-friendly Ben Thanh, each offering a different shopping experience and level of bargaining culture. We researched what to buy and where across the country's best markets.

Quick Facts

📍 DestinationVietnam
🎫 Activities Referenced8 bookable experiences
💰 Price Range₫9 – ₫49
🏙️ Cities CoveredHoi An, Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh
✍️ AuthorHolidaySG Editorial
🏢 AgencyLicensed Singapore TA04014

Hanoi's Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market

Dong Xuan Market and the surrounding Old Quarter streets, each historically specialising in a specific trade, offer an authentic and less tourist-oriented shopping experience.

ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport - HolidaySG
My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise
ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport - HolidaySG
ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport
Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show - HolidaySG

ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport

Unwind in style at the ACV Lounge, a premium airport retreat at Noi Bai International Airport where you can savor complimentary hot meals, sip on alcoholic beverages, and recharge before your flight....

  • • Scenic runway views that let you watch aircraft movements in comfort Complimenta...
  • • Best time: The ideal time to visit is 2-3 hours before your flight, all...
  • • Duration: Plan to spend approximately 1.5 to 2.5 h...
From US$45.71 Hanoi Relaxation
View Details & Book →

Ho Chi Minh City's Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market is Saigon's most famous shopping destination, popular with tourists for souvenirs, clothing, and local snacks, requiring confident bargaining.

Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show - HolidaySG
Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show
Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show - HolidaySG

Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Show

Embark on an unforgettable culinary adventure through Hanoi's Old Quarter, where expert local guides lead you to hidden street food gems and authentic flavors. After satisfying your taste buds, enjoy...

  • • Expert English-speaking guide ensures you taste only the finest local delicacies...
  • • Best time: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best atmosphere a...
  • • Duration: The complete experience typically lasts...
From ₫30 Hanoi Foodies
View Details & Book →

Compare Featured Activities

ActivityLocationPriceBest ForBook
My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River CruiseHoi An₫15Beach loversBook →
ACV Lounge Noi Bai International AirportHanoiUS$45.71RelaxationBook →
Da Nang Street Walking Food TourDa Nang₫22FoodiesBook →
Cu Chi Tunnels Day TourHo Chi Minh₫27ExplorersBook →
Hanoi: Street Food Walking Tour & Water Puppet Sho...Hanoi₫30FoodiesBook →
War Remnants Museum and Independence Palace Walkin...Ho Chi Minh₫18Culture loversBook →
Da Nang Airport - Da Nang City Transfer ServiceDa Nang₫9ConvenienceBook →
Private Car Charter in Ho Chi MinhHo Chi Minh₫49EveryoneBook →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is bargaining expected at Vietnamese markets?

Yes, particularly at tourist-oriented markets like Ben Thanh, where starting prices are often inflated and negotiation is standard practice.

What should I buy at Vietnamese markets?

Lacquerware, silk products, coffee, and traditional conical hats make popular souvenirs, though quality varies significantly between vendors.

Which is more authentic, Ben Thanh or Dong Xuan Market?

Dong Xuan in Hanoi tends to feel less tourist-oriented and more geared toward local shoppers compared to the heavily visited Ben Thanh Market.

About HolidaySG — Licensed Singapore travel agency (TA04014). This guide is researched and written by the HolidaySG Editorial team using verified, up-to-date destination information and real product data from our booking platform.

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HolidaySG

Written by

HolidaySG Travel Team

Singapore-based travel specialists covering attractions, tours and travel experiences across Asia-Pacific and beyond. Licensed travel agency (TA04014).

Last updated: October 12, 2026

#Vietnam markets #Ben Thanh Market #Dong Xuan Market #Vietnam shopping guide
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