Russian Market Ho Chi Minh - City guide

In the center of Ho Chi Minh City, there's a shopping paradise called Russian Market, or "Chợ Nga" to locals. It's a really hip place that combines Vietnam's atmosphere with a most excellent Russian past. It started back in 2000 due to Mr. Nguyen Manh Cuong, a Vietnamese veteran who received his training in the Soviet Union, and nowadays, it's really hopping with locals and tourists searching for amazing items for super low prices.

Location and Accessibility

The Russian Market is located at 328 Vo Van Kiet Street, Co Giang Ward, District 1, just 2 kilometers from Ben Thanh Market. Here is the google maps link to check reviews of the Russian market and also navigate there.

It has all manner of ways to reach there:

• Taxi: Getting a taxi from downtown in District 1 typically costs around 50,000 VND (approximately $2). I would suggest you to use Grab car to travel with comfort and without haggling with the driver! 

• Motorbike Taxi: GrabBike gets you connected with extremely fast and affordable rides which can cost you as low as only $1 from the Saigon center.

• Bus: You can completely find buses nearby, and there are routes along Vo Van Kiet Street. Although, I would recommend you to avoid them if you can as most bus drivers don’t speak English and also you might feel crammed there during peak hours when buses run at capacity.

• Rented motorbike/car: If you already have a motorbike on rent then you can then park your bike in the market basement for just 5K VND, while car parking is available out front, with fees ranging from 20k to 60k VND, depending on your stay.

Operating Hours

The market welcomes visitors daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, providing ample time to explore its diverse offerings.

A Peek into History

The Russian Market in Saigon started centuries ago due to history between Vietnam and Russia. When the Soviet Union dissolved, Russians desperately needed products. Vietnamese business people saw this opportunity and began to send their products to Russia and import Russian products to Vietnam. This business establishment formed the market, and soon enough, it turned into a place for people who have stayed, learned, or worked in Russia, and Russian expatriates relaxing in Vietnam.

Architectural Charm

The market’s atmosphere is completely Russian in feel. The entry is out of a castle, with this hip conical tower that completely has those Tsarist vibes going on, and gets you prepared for all the mixing of cultures that you will see inside. It’s massive, 2,000 square meters across three levels; trading occurs on the bottom two floors, and packaging on the third.
Have you ever been to Moscow? Well then you might just feel at home in this market!

Diverse Offerings

When you visit the Russian Market, you’re going to find all manner of things:

• Winter Clothes: Vietnam being all tropical and whatnot, you can actually find really great winter clothes in the market, such as overcoats, windbreakers, and thermal wear. They suit locals going to colder places like Sapa and expats who need cool wear. Did you know that there are places in Vietnam where it snows?
  

• Russian Food: There's this small market shop full of great Russian products such as black bread, caviar, vodka (yes the original Russian vodka!), smoked salmon, and chocolates. It's completely a nostalgic experience for Russians and a delight to eat for locals and tourists!

• Souvenirs: This market has all these stalls with nice Russian souvenirs, such as Matryoshka dolls, elegant trays, teapots, and ashtrays. They are great for picking up some interesting souvenirs which mostly locals buy.
  

Shopping Tips

• Bargaining: You have to negotiate politely to receive good rates as haggling is completely acceptable in Vietnamese markets.

• Comfy Clothes: Wear some comfy clothes and flats as aisles are quite narrow and you will be doing a lot of walking. You don’t wanna get tired quickly because there is tons of delicious food you have to try here!

• Security: Keep personal belongings secure and be mindful of your surroundings to prevent pickpocketing.

Nearby Attractions

After exploring the Russian Market, consider visiting nearby attractions to enrich your cultural experience:

• Bui Vien Street: Approximately 900 meters away and extremely popular for having a vibrant nightlife, restaurants with all types of cuisine, and a very energetic atmosphere. It can get crazy loud after 9 pm so just keep that in mind.
  Be prepared for young guys and girls who are actually working for the open bars to grab you, although they are completely harmless and will leave you after a simple “no thanks”.

• War Remnants Museum: It is approximately 1.2 kilometers from the market, and this is where you can experience Vietnam's history and what actually went on in the Vietnam War. I tell almost everyone who goes to Ho Chi Minh to visit this place because it's an eye opener for real!
  

Summary

The Russian Market in Ho Chi Minh City is a really awesome place that clearly illustrates how Vietnam and Russia have bonded over time.

Whether you’re searching for warm winter apparel, in need of genuine Russian cuisine, or simply looking to pick up offbeat souvenirs, this market completely embodies the fantastic friendship between Vietnam and Russia.

There are other top markets in Ho chi minh which you can visit alongside like Tan Dinh Market, An Dong market and Ba Chieu market.