Taeki Chan When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, one shopping destination that almost everyone recommends is Saigon Square. Located just a short walk from Ben Thanh Market, this indoor shopping mall has built a reputation as a bargain hunter’s paradise, offering everything from clothing and shoes to bags, luggage, accessories, and souvenirs.
If you’re planning a shopping trip to Ho Chi Minh City, here’s what you can expect from my visit.
What is Saigon Square?
Saigon Square is an indoor shopping complex filled with hundreds of small retail stalls. Unlike traditional shopping malls, each stall is independently operated, giving visitors plenty of choices and opportunities to compare prices.
You’ll find products such as:
* Men’s and women’s fashion
* Sportswear
* Backpacks and handbags
* Shoes and sneakers
* Watches and accessories
* Travel luggage
* Souvenirs
Many of the products are inspired by well-known international brands, making it a popular destination for tourists looking for stylish items at affordable prices.
My Shopping Experience
As I explored Saigon Square, one thing I immediately noticed was that the fashion here felt more modern and trendy. Compared to some of the nearby markets, there seemed to be a wider selection of contemporary clothing, making it a great place for shoppers looking for the latest styles rather than just tourist souvenirs.
Another thing that stood out was the large selection of premium-looking luggage and bags. Whether you’re searching for a travel backpack, suitcase, duffel bag, or fashionable handbag, there were plenty of options available. I found the variety here to be more extensive than I expected, especially if you’re looking for travel accessories.
One item immediately caught my attention—a backpack that looked well-made and perfect for travelling.
The seller at Saigon Square quoted me 800,000 VND.
Interestingly, I saw what appeared to be the same backpack at Ben Thanh Market, where the asking price was 950,000 VND.
Although I didn’t negotiate at either location, the price difference suggests that Saigon Square may offer slightly better starting prices for some products.
If you’re comfortable bargaining, there’s a good chance you could negotiate an even lower price, especially if:
* You’re buying multiple items.
* You pay in cash.
* You shop during quieter hours when vendors may be more willing to offer discounts.
As always, every shop is different, so prices can vary even for similar products.
Can You Bargain at Saigon Square?
Yes!
Bargaining is quite common at Saigon Square, although the negotiation may not be as aggressive as in some traditional street markets.
A few simple tips:
* Compare prices from several shops before buying.
* Be friendly and smile during negotiations.
* Don’t accept the first price immediately.
* If the price isn’t right, politely walk away—you may receive a better offer.
Remember that the goal is to reach a price that both you and the seller are happy with.
Saigon Square vs. Ben Thanh Market
Both shopping destinations are popular with tourists, but they offer slightly different experiences.
Saigon Square
Pros
* Indoor and air-conditioned shopping environment.
* Comfortable and more organised than many traditional markets.
* More modern and trendy clothing selections.
* Excellent variety of backpacks, handbags, luggage, and travel accessories.
* Competitive starting prices on many items.
* Easier to browse at a relaxed pace.
Cons
* Prices still vary between shops.
* Quality differs depending on the vendor.
* Bargaining is still recommended.
Ben Thanh Market
Pros
* One of Ho Chi Minh City’s most iconic tourist attractions.
* Huge selection of local snacks, souvenirs, handicrafts, and gifts.
* Great atmosphere for experiencing a traditional Vietnamese market.
Cons
* Usually much busier with tourists.
* Initial asking prices can be higher.
* Bargaining is almost always expected.
Is Saigon Square Worth Visiting?
I think yes, especially if you’re looking for fashionable clothing, quality-looking bags, luggage, shoes, or travel accessories.
Personally, I felt Saigon Square offered more modern fashion choices and a better selection of premium-looking backpacks and luggage compared to what I saw elsewhere. Even if you don’t plan to buy immediately, it’s worth visiting to compare prices before making your final purchase.
For me, seeing the same backpack priced at 800,000 VND in Saigon Square compared with 950,000 VND at Ben Thanh Market was a good reminder that shopping around can help you find a better deal.
Final Thoughts
Saigon Square remains one of Ho Chi Minh City’s best shopping destinations for travellers who enjoy browsing, comparing prices, and negotiating a good deal.
If you’re interested in stylish clothing, travel bags, luggage, or everyday fashion, I highly recommend adding Saigon Square to your itinerary. Pair your visit with nearby Ben Thanh Market, compare prices, and don’t be afraid to negotiate politely—you may end up walking away with a fantastic bargain.
For me, Saigon Square wasn’t just another shopping stop—it was a place where I discovered a wider range of modern fashion and travel gear, making it one of my favourite shopping experiences in Ho Chi Minh City.
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