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Shopping at Binh Tay Market: A Must-Visit Cultural Spot in Saigon

Expose yourself to the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, where tradition meets modernity. Being one of the hottest destinations in Vietnam, Saigon has a busy Chinatown that holds the famous Binh Tay Market. Take this Ho Chi Minh City Tour that will drive you into the pulsating beat of Shopping at Binh Tay Market, where local culture meets rich history and architecture for an unparalleled experience.

Why Binh Tay Market is a Must-Visit for Tourists in Saigon?

Binh Tay Market

Binh Tay Market

Let me tell you why Binh Tay Market is a must-enter on any Ho Chi Minh City Tour for a hefty amount of good and understandable reasons. Firstly, it is overwhelming with historical significance: constructed in the 1930s of the past century by Quach Dam, a good Chinese businessman, for nearly a hundred years, Binh Tay Market was one of the most outstanding centers of commerce in Saigon. Having survived several ages and changes, this market still holds a central place in trade and local life.

Of course, it is not the history alone that makes Shopping at Binh Tay Market memorable; it is also because of the architectural uniqueness! The market is just a stunning combination of French and Chinese architectural styles. You will be impressed with a great central courtyard, a very iconic clock tower, and an open, airy design meant to keep it cool in the tropical heat of Saigon.

And do not forget the cultural diversity beating in every inch of the market. Binh Tay Market is where Chinese and Vietnamese meet in one lively mix of sights, sounds, and smells. From traditional products and handicrafts down to local street foods, this place provides a close-to-reality view of the daily life and customs of the people in Saigon.

Whether it’s for the cultural importance of Binh Tay Market, a lesson into Saigon’s historical markets, or to see one of the most colorful stops on a Ho Chi Minh City Tour, Shopping at Binh Tay Market is sure to be a crowded and enriching one.

Detailed Tour Itinerary: Shopping at Binh Tay Market

8:00 AM – Pick-Up from Central Saigon

Your exciting day of Shopping at Binh Tay Market, commencement at Binh Tay Market takes you up with a comfortable pick from your hotel in District 1 or directly from Impress Travel’s office. Our guide will give a short, interesting introduction to the day as we start. You’ll get an overview of the cultural importance of Binh Tay Market and the lively Chinatown (Cholon) area to set the stage for what’s going to happen on this immersive Ho Chi Minh City Tour.

8:30 AM – Visit to Thien Hau Temple

Thien Hau Temple for Shopping at Binh Tay Marke

Thien Hau Temple

First, we will go to Thien Hau Temple the strikingly beautiful ancient Chinese temple devoted to the goddess of the sea and respected by the citizens for protection over the sailors. You will be able to explore this well-preserved temple with its cut carvings, porcelain dioramas, and huge coils of incense filling the air with their mystical fragrance. He will show us the influence that the Chinese community had in the development of Saigon by sharing stories of deep cultural traditions that formed this lively district.

10:00 AM – Shopping and Exploration at Binh Tay Market

The highlight of your tour is now in-store for some Shopping at Binh Tay Market! With more than 2,300 stalls, from textiles to spices, this place is truly a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re after handcrafted souvenirs, traditional Vietnamese silks, or exotic fruits, you’ll find it all here. Our guide will have some secret tips in store on how to bargain like a local and take you to the best stalls for authentic locally-made products. It is not just an aspect of going Shopping at Binh Tay Market, but a matter of staying around in that pulsating atmosphere and being face to face with the unique blend of Vietnamese and Chinese cultures thriving here.

Shopping at Binh Tay Marke

Shopping

11:30 AM – Culinary Delights in Binh Tay Market

After such a tour of inspections, it is time for indulgence in local tastes. Binh Tay Market is surely famous for street food, and you will be able to taste the best of Saigon dishes. Tasty pho, crispy banh mi, steaming buns-this is a great eater’s dream. And don’t miss tropical fruits- mangosteen, dragon fruit, and other exotics are a must-eat. The guide is going to take you through the best food stalls of the marketplace to taste Ho Chi Minh City Tours in heart and soul by tasting its cuisine.

12:00 PM – Return to Central Saigon

At the end of this memorable journey in Binh Tay Market, it is time to enjoy the comfort of our transport back to your hotel or the office of Impress Travel. Moreover, you are freely allowed to ask your guide for more tips on how to explore the hidden gems of Saigon or other must-visit places for the next Ho Chi Minh City Tour. This is a perfect ending to your lively shopping and cultural experience in one of the most iconic buildings in Saigon!

Tips and Useful Information for Shopping at Binh Tay Market

Just like with any form of shopping, being prepared makes your experience of Shopping at Binh Tay Market far more enjoyable. Let’s now discuss some of the key points so you can truly appreciate this interesting market.

Bargaining Advice: As in markets everywhere, bargaining is appropriate at Binh Tay. Start with a lower offer, about 50-70 percent of the asking price, and work your way up. Be polite, smile, and enjoy yourself. Part of the experience in these markets is the friendly back-and-forth that’s expected when haggling.

Best Time to Visit: If you don’t want to feel the burning heat and the big crowds, then early morning is considered the best time. Coming here at about 8 AM will ensure you experience the freshest market with most of the vendors setting up to welcome you.

Culinary Delights at Binh Tay Market

Culinary Delights

Cultural Etiquette: Be nice and considerate whenever buying from vendors. Make eye contact, be civilized, and never touch without asking. That way, you’ll have respect for the vendor and the merchandise he’s selling, fitting you right into the local market ambiance.

What to Bring: At Binh Tay Market, cash is king. Have some in store, and most importantly, have it small. Comfortable shoes are essential; you will likely be on your feet as you explore the many stalls. Take along a reusable bag for all the gems you will uncover-whether textiles, spices, or souvenirs.

Why Book the Shopping at Binh Tay Market Tour with Impress Travel?

Choosing Impress Travel for your Shopping at Binh Tay Market trip means total involvement in Saigon’s dynamic local culture, guided by the finest. Guided by our expert team, who will be sharing intriguing stories and interesting insights about historical and cultural areas of importance to the market, it will give further understanding of this busy marketplace. Whether it’s learning about the peculiar French-Chinese architecture or getting lost in a world of hundreds of stalls, our guides will make the experience all fun and full of adventure.

At Impress Travel, our tour operator provides locally tailored tours to cater to your interests. In case you want to spend more time shopping or trying some local delicacies, finding most of the hidden things in culture, our tours are provided according to the preference of our customers. We take great care in seeing that all our customers will have a secure and comfortable experience from the beginning until the end. Don’t miss out on the best way to do a Binh Tay Market with your Ho Chi Minh City Tours; book in with us today!

For more information or to book your tour:
Email: info@impresstravel.com
Phone: (+84) 912 379 189
Website: Impress Travel

Conclusion

Shopping at Binh Tay Market is surely one of the things not to be missed during any Ho Chi Minh City Tour. Rich history, cultural diversity, and endless shopping combine into an energetic experience not to be forgotten. Whether you hunt for some very unique souvenirs, grab delicious street food, or inspect Saigon’s cultural legacy, you will find it all at Binh Tay Market. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling Ho Chi Minh City to and to book Ho Chi Minh City Tours at the best prices.

Ready to immerse in the busy market life of Saigon? Get ready with Impress Travel Shopping at Binh Tay Market tour!

For more details or to book your tour:

Hanoi Head Office

  • 125 Hoang Ngan, Hanoi
  • Tel: (+84) 912 379 189
  • Email: hanoi@impresstravel.com

Saigon Office

  • 155 Ben Van Don, Rivergate, 4 District, HCM
  • Tel: (+84)961675566
  • Email: saigon@impresstravel.com

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Tours Itinerary

Day 01

WELCOME TO VIETNAM & HO CHI MINH ARRIVAL

  • On arrival in Ho Chi Minh city, our guide & driver – Impress Travel Team will be there to meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel.
  • Enjoy free leisure time
  • Stay overnight in Ho Chi Minh city

 What is included today: Transfer, tour guide, hotel in Ho Chi Minh city

Day 02

HO CHI MINH CITY TOUR AND CU CHI TUNNELS

Your guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel. We will visit the following places of interest:

  • The Reunification Palace: Here on April 30th, 1975 the Vietnam War officially ended when tank number 843 of the North Vietnamese Army crashed through the gates of what was, at the time the residence of the President of the Republic of Vietnam.
  • War Remnants Museum: Formerly known as the Museum of American War Crimes, this is a poignant display of the futility of war. Some of the black and white photography in the ‘Requiem’ exhibit is particularly touching, dedicated to both foreign and Vietnamese journalists and photographers who perished during the conflict. The courtyard outside contains the spoils of war, namely rusting jets, tanks and cannons captured from the American military machine.
  • Notre Dame Cathedral and Old Post Office: Built between 1877 and 1883 this is one of the best examples of classical French colonial architecture. Remarkably every stone used in its creation was shipped from France to Vietnam. Her two 40m towers, topped with iron spires dominate the city’s skyline. The Old Post Office is another example of French colonial architecture and is also the country’s largest post office.
  • Jade Emperor Pagoda: Building in 1909 in honor of the supreme Taoist god, this is one of the most spectacularly atmospheric temples in HCMC, stuffed with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. The pungent smoke of incense fills the air, obscuring the exquisite woodcarvings.
  • Cu Chi Tunnels: Watch a short introductory video showing how they were constructed, then spend the next hour exploring the maze of tunnels. Also, on display are various mantraps, the remains of an American tank and numerous bomb craters made by 500 pound bombs dropped by B52 bombers. For those interested there’s even the opportunity to fire off rounds from an AK47 or MK16 at the nearby rifle range

• Free time & overnight at hotel in central Ho Chi Minh City

Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, hotel accommodation

Day 03

HO CHI MINH – MEKONG – MY THO (B,L)

Pick-up time: 8:00-8:30/ End tour 18:00 19:00
Our guide and driver will pick you up at your hotel, and drive 1,5 hours to Mỹ Tho. We will stop along the way for refreshments and toilet.
• Upon arrival, we board a motor-boat and cruise along a vast network of canals and channels to enjoy wonderful views of the Mekong River, including four famous islands “Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle and Phoenix”.
• Stop at one of the floating fish houses, in nets and wire baskets under their house, the villagers cultivate freshwater fish and shrimp – a major export product of the region.
• Cross the River to the other side, you will stop at a traditional workshop to witness a step-by-step process on how to make coconut candy, honey farming… while trying some yourself and listening to traditional music.
• Enjoy what local people offer by hand rowing a sampan along the shady, breezy canal. We will transfer to local transportation called Xe Lôi to travel throughout the villages.
• Lunch will be served at a riverside restaurant with a Vietnamese 5-course set menu. Please request in advance if you have a food allergy, you are a vegetarian, or you observe Halal.
• Take a rest after lunch before boarding the motor-boat back to Mỹ Tho. We drive to Vĩnh Tràng pagoda, an ancient southern architectural gem built in the middle of the 19th century. There are many Buddha statues including some that are over a hundred years old.

We drive another 1,5 hours back to Hồ Chí Minh city and drop you at your hotel or somewhere in District 1 on request. End of services.
***Please note that timing and itinerary are subject to change without notice. However, we will do everything we reasonably can to make sure everything goes according to plan.
Inclusions: breakfast, A/C land transfer, lunch, local English-speaking tour guide, entrance fee, boat trip, hotel

Day 04

HO CHI MINH– FAREWELL ( B )

• Your free leisure time may be spent shopping in Ho Chi Minh City center at Supermarkets etc or at Ben Thanh market.
• You will be transferred to the Ho Chi Minh city airport via your scheduled flight back home or continue seeing other cities in Vietnam.
• We hope you enjoyed your trip and see you again!

Inclusion:  hotel breakfast, English speaking tour guide, private A/C transfer, hotel accommodation – check out before 12:00 mid-day

What’s included in this trip:

  • Accommodation based on Twin/Double sharing room, ( notice: a single room is surcharged following single supplement policy/ all room night including daily hotel breakfast.
  • All the meals as mentioned in the detailed itinerary
  • Entrance Fee to visit attractive places are mentioned as itinerary
  • Private Car/Van/Bus with air-conditioned and good experienced driver.
  • Boat trip in My Tho
  • Experienced English speaking tour guides as specified ( French-speaking guide/ Chinese speaking guide are available on request )
  • Complimentary drink water and Tissue on Van/Bus/Van as mentioned on itinerary
  • International Ticket Fare with insurance surcharge and Fuel surcharge
  • Arport tax.
  • Visa Fees & Travels insurance
  • Porter Charges & Camera Fees.
  • Meals (Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) do not mentioned as in this itinerary
  • Tipping for Tour guides, Bus driver, Crew
  • Other personal expenses such as beverages, telephone calls, laundry services, Minibar, etc….
  • Other services are not specifically mentioned in the tour Itinerary and the above Inclusion

3 STAR HOTELS & CRUISES IN VIETNAM  SELECTED

 

Destination

Room Type

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Ho Chi Minh City 3-star Hotels

Signature Deluxe

 HA HIEN SIGNATURE HOTEL 

Refer:http://hahienhotel.vn

 

4 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED

 

Destination

Room Type

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Ho Chi Minh City 4-star Hotels

Palace Saigon Suite Room

SAIGON PALACE HOTEL

Refer: www.palacesaigon.com/en/

5 STAR HOTELS & CRUISE IN VIETNAM SELECTED

 

Destination

Hotel Category

HOTEL NAME, ROOM TYPE & WEBSITE

Ho Chi Minh city

Superior Room Sofitel Hotel Saigon

SOFITEL HOTEL SAIGON

Refer: https://sofitel.accorhotels.com/

 

The hotels and cruise are subject to change to similar category in case of fully booked

Vietnam Travel Map: 15 Days

Ranana

You feel like organized tour, but you are in a privet tour. Impress Travel make the different.

We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.

Ebrahim

Tour of Vietnam

Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!

Solly Pochee

The tour was fantastic

I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee

Bernard Lim

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel

Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.

Derek.Schooling

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel

This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.

My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .

We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress

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