Ban Co Market – A local market nestled within a chessboard-like maze of alleys between Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Nguyen Thien Thuat, and Cao Thang streets. The market is busiest in the morning, renowned for its secondhand goods and long-standing eateries.
Quick Overview
- Address: Alley area between Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Nguyen Thien Thuat, and Cao Thang, Ban Co Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: Mainly in the morning, from around 5:30 AM to noon
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Alley market, secondhand items, long-standing food stalls
History and Features
- The name "Ban Co" (Chessboard) comes from the neighborhood's grid-like network of intersecting alleys.
- It has long been a traditional market serving local residents in the area.
- Beyond the fresh food section, the surrounding alleys specialize in thrift clothes, footwear, and bags.
What to Buy at Ban Co Market
- Fresh produce, vegetables, dried foods, fish sauce, and pickled vegetables.
- Thrift clothing, shoes, and bags at budget-friendly prices.
- Alley 51 Cao Thang features shoes, bags, and luggage.
- Sweets, snacks, and toys can be found in the alleys closer to Nguyen Thien Thuat Street.
What to Eat at Ban Co Market
- Bun thit nuong (grilled pork noodle bowls) at veteran stalls inside the market.
- Pho and banh mi for breakfast.
- Traditional sock-filter coffee (ca phe vot) at old-school cafes around the Ban Co area.
- Chao (porridge) and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls) in the food alleys near the market.
How to Get There
- The market is about a 10-minute drive from the old District 1 city center.
- Multiple bus routes pass through Nguyen Dinh Chieu and Cach Mang Thang Tam streets.
- Park your motorbike at the alley entrances and explore the market on foot.
Tips for Visitors
- Arrive early, as the market begins to wind down after noon.
- Inspect quality and stitching carefully when shopping for secondhand items.
- Keep a close eye on your belongings in crowded alleys.
- Ho Thi Ky Flower Market is nearby and makes a great stop for extra street food treats.
Reference Prices
- Bun thit nuong: around 25,000–35,000 VND/bowl
- Banh mi: around 20,000–25,000 VND/sandwich
- Filter coffee at long-running cafes around the market: around 12,000–25,000 VND/glass
Prices are for reference only and may vary by season and individual stalls.
Best Time to Visit
- The market operates from around 5:30 AM to 1:00 PM; visit early between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM to browse secondhand goods and fresh food at the most relaxed pace.
- Crowds peak toward midday and thin out afterward; many stalls close after about 1:00 PM.
- Long-standing food stalls, such as the bun thit nuong spots inside the market area, usually serve from noon into the afternoon.
Useful Information for Visitors
- Payment: Many stalls accept QR bank transfers, but it is best to carry small cash bills for buying thrift items and street food.
- Restrooms: Being an alley market, there are few public restrooms; consider using facilities at local cafes and restaurants around the market.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Ban Co Market open?
The market is at its liveliest from around 5:30 AM until noon.
Does Ban Co Market sell second-hand goods?
Yes, the alleys around the market are home to many stalls selling second-hand clothes, shoes, and handbags.
What to eat at Ban Co Market?
Bun thit nuong (grilled pork rice vermicelli), pho, banh mi, and traditional cloth-filter coffee (ca phe vot) are popular choices.
Need a local guide to visit Ban Co Market?
- Post a free tour guide request – receive quotes from local guides and interpreters.
- Explore available tours or request a customized tour.
- Vehicle rentals and airport transfers.
See also
Market opening hours and operations may vary, please verify before visiting.
