Introduction: Shopping in Saigon—It’s More Than a Basket

You’ve landed in Ho Chi Minh City. Beneath the whirlwind of bikes and neon signs, shopping feels like an adventure. Expats crave comforts from home, quirky gifts, and secret deals on everything—whether it’s organic cheese, England’s black tea, or fresh dragon fruit for less than a dollar.

But where do you start? Dive into Saigon’s markets, malls, and specialty shops, where global tastes and local spirit meet. Here’s how real expats shop smarter, discover hidden gems, and turn every trip into a story worth sharing.

Getting the Essentials: Expat Shopping, Solved

The Three Urban Shopping Survival Skills:

  • Find the Hidden Gems: Local markets for bargains, specialty stores for hard-to-find imports, and high-end malls for global brands and comfort.

  • Save Without the Hassle: Loyalty programs, seasonal mega-sales, and delivery apps (that really work).

  • Shop Like a Local—Without the Guesswork: Bargain confidently, understand payment quirks, and spot real value.

Comparison Table: Where Should You Go?

Spot Expat Score What Makes It Special Must-Try Picks Crowd Vibe
Crescent Mall ★★★★★ Family events, safe indoor fun Western groceries, play zone Very family-friendly
Saigon Centre ★★★★☆ Luxury, foodie heaven Takashimaya club, global snacks Mixed—popular & trendy
Ben Thanh Market ★★★★☆ Classic Saigon bargains Tailored clothes, souvenirs Bustling, high energy
Annam Gourmet ★★★★★ Imported foods, deli bar Cheese, bread, wine delivery Expat favorite
MM Mega Market ★★★★☆ Bulk buys, great value Housewares, pantry stockup Local + savvy expats

Real Expat Stories: Shopping Wins & Culture Shocks

“I thought finding real parmesan would be impossible. Turns out Annam Gourmet stocks everything from French butter to vegan sausages—and delivers to my door.” —Luke, UK

“GrabMart helped me survive my first week with kids. Ordered diapers, snacks, and even cleaning supplies—all dropped off in under an hour.” —Mai, US

“Ben Thanh Market is wild and wonderful. Bargain hard, always smile, but don’t be surprised if you’re quoted ‘tourist price’ at first!” —Jean-Pierre, France

Smart Tips for 2025 Shopping in Saigon

  • Shop Late for Deals: Markets and bakeries mark down unsold items in the evening.

  • Join Loyalty Clubs: Takashimaya, Annam, and Co.opmart give exclusive member discounts.

  • Explore Delivery Apps: GrabMart for speed, Chopp for specialty imports, Tiki for electronics/furniture. Use English interface if you’re just learning Vietnamese.

  • Hunt for Sales: Tet (Lunar New Year), Christmas, and mall anniversaries—expect 30–50% off on name brands.

  • Neighborhood Strolls: Thao Dien, Phu My Hung, and D7 are good for casual exploring and unique new stores.

Quick-Fix FAQ for Expats

Where can I buy Western groceries? – Annam Gourmet, Nam An Market, and MM Mega Market (for bulk).

Is bargaining expected everywhere? – Absolutely in markets; not in big malls or chain stores.

Best tech, home, and furniture shopping? – Tiki, Lazada, and local showrooms in District 7 and Thao Dien.

Can I get same-day delivery? – Yes—use GrabMart or Annam Gourmet for groceries; Tiki for home goods.

Saigon’s Coolest & Most Unique Shopping Addresses

Top 5 Addresses for Unique Vietnamese Artcraft (Great for Gifts)

  1. Maztermind

    • Address: 8D Phan Kế Bính, Đa Kao, District 1

    • Specialty: Luxurious board games crafted with Vietnamese motifs. Impressive, exclusive gifts.

  2. Clemente Studio

    • Address: 25 Nguyễn Văn Giai, Đa Kao, District 1

    • Contemporary art pieces, creative ceramics, and jewelry.

  3. Đông Phong Art Gallery

    • Address: 3 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe, District 1

    • Hand-painted silk, lacquer, and unique fine art.

  4. Phùng Ân Artisan

    • Address: Available online / CHUS platform & pop-ups

    • Handmade accessories and decorative crafts—exclusively Vietnamese.

  5. Zó Project

    • Address: 27/2 Nguyễn Bỉnh Khiêm, District 1

    • Traditional dó (mulberry) paper art, paper fans, journals, and lanterns.

Ao Dai Shopping — for iconic Vietnamese gifts/clothing:

  • Miss Ao Dai: 21 Nguyen Trung Ngan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1

  • Luong Van Can Street: A hub for tailors dedicated to Ao Dai (custom-fitted).

Top 5 Addresses for Tech Products

  1. Nguyen Kim Electronics Center

    • Address: 63-65-67 Tran Hung Dao, District 1

    • The biggest multi-level tech store for all electronics, from laptops to home appliances.

  2. Phong Vu

    • Address: 125 Cach Mang Thang 8, District 3

    • Best spot for computer gear, accessories, and gaming setups.

  3. Sony Store (Vincom Center Dong Khoi)

    • Address: 72 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 (Vincom Mall)

    • Vietnamese Sony flagship with latest gadgets, live demos, and international support.

  4. The Gioi Di Dong

    • Address: Multiple, nearest at 87A CMT8, District 1

    • Massive electronics chain for phones, tablets, and quick accessories.

  5. FPT Shop

    • Address: 202 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, District 3

    • Reliable for official Apple, Samsung, and Google products with warranty.

Top 5 Boutiques for Unique Women’s Fashion

  1. Dear José

    • Address: 9A Nguyen Trai, Pham Ngu Lao, District 1

    • Ultra-feminine local styles, great for chic gifts.

  2. CICI

    • Address: 6C Nguyen Trai, District 1

    • Iconic romantic silhouettes and classic Vietnamese glamour.

  3. DAPHALE Studios

    • Address: 49 Cach Mang Thang 8, District 1

    • Minimalist, trendy, modern looks.

  4. Nosbyn

    • Address: 77 Mac Thi Buoi, Ben Nghe, District 1

    • Everyday cool with a Vietnamese twist.

  5. Devons Studio

    • Address: 42 Ton That Thiep, Ben Nghe, District 1

    • Designer styles, bold materials, perfect for fashion-forward expats.

Top 5 Boutiques for Cool Men’s Fashion

  1. MAVERIK Studio

    • Address: 14 Tran Cao Van, District 1

    • Contemporary menswear, smart casual to sharp tailoring.

  2. Rue Miche

    • Address: 26 Ly Tu Trong, District 1

    • High-end meets street style—global vibes with local flavor.

  3. AIN

    • Address: 20 Dang Dung, Tan Dinh, District 1

    • Curated space blending local and global designers.

  4. Lider

    • Address: 65 Nguyen Phi Khanh, District 1

    • Minimalist wardrobes, clean silhouettes.

  5. The New Playground

    • Address: Basement, 26 Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe, District 1

    • Hip collective of emerging local men’s fashion brands.

Insider Tip: For gifts like Ao Dai or unique handicrafts, custom tailoring or artisan finds are affordable—always ask about personalizing your purchase for truly memorable souvenirs.

Conclusion: Shop Boldly, Shop Locally

Saigon rewards curiosity. Beyond the malls and markets, the city’s real charm lives in its independent boutiques, artisan studios, and the friendly shop owners who remember your name after one visit. Shopping here isn’t just about buying things—it’s about joining the rhythm of daily life, discovering unexpected favorites, and building your own map of the city through each experience.

Take your time, follow your instincts, and don’t be afraid to explore the little side streets. The more you wander, the more the city opens up. Whether you’re an expat settling in or a traveler passing through, Saigon makes every shopping trip a chance to connect, save smart, and come home with stories you didn’t expect to find.