Tan Dinh Market – Truly Authentic

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If you really want to get in touch with Vietnamese culture, and blend in with the locals, just visit some of their oldest markets. This is where you can observe Vietnamese people in every aspect of their lives, from the way they talk and the way they eat, to how a typical day in Vietnam unfolds. Among the most famous markets, Tan Dinh market is simply intriguing and something not to miss out on if you are traveling through Saigon. This is an all-you-need-to-know-guide!

General Information

  • Name: Tan Dinh Market

  • Address: 300 Hai Ba Trung Street or 01 Nguyen Huu Cau Street, District 1, HCMC

  • Opening time: 5 AM to 5 PM daily

  • Most common commodities: fabrics, clothing, groceries, accessories, jewellery, footwear, fruit, kitchenware…

  • Visitors: Locals from residential area of District 1 and the surrounding area

  • Origin of the goods at the market: Vietnam, China

A First Look At Tan Dinh Market

The clutter of this market is what makes it charming.

Built by the French colonial government in 1926, Tan Dinh market serves as one of the city’s historical monuments as well as a well-known shopping location for both locals and newcomers. Since it is located right at the corner of the Hai Ba Trung – Nguyen Huu Cau crossroads, it has four gateways.

Back in the 1870s, this market was held by the locals themselves and it was widely referred to by the name Phu Hoa market, which was one of the most important markets in the north of Saigon. Later, perhaps because it was situated near Tan Dinh church, the market was increasingly known as Tan Dinh market. The highlight of this market is its unusual and attractive facade which includes three steeples – one in the middle and two on either side. The minimal and classical architecture of Tan Dinh market makes it stand out easily from other markets in the city. After nearly 100 years of existence, Tan Dinh market has remained as a prominent commercial center of Saigon’s downtown area which houses a food court and thousands of stalls selling groceries, clothing, footwear, fruits, textiles, and everything in between.

An extra point goes to the professional security team of Tan Dinh market patrolling everywhere to maintain discipline in the market area. Additionally, with the adjacent parking lot opened for visitors, shopping at Tan Dinh market has become peaceful and comforting.

How Can I Get To Tan Dinh Market?

Head north from the city center and the market should be along Hai Ba Trung street, just across the road from the prominent landmark of Tan Dinh church. It only takes a ten-minute walk to get to Tan Dinh market from the Turtle Lake (Ho Con Rua). You can’t miss it!

Besides, there are several bus routes to Tan Dinh Market, such as 38, 10, 28, and 54, to help people and tourists to reach this location with ease.