Ho Chi Minh City, the bustling metropolis of Vietnam, is renowned for its vibrant shopping scene, offering a wide range of malls and retail destinations to suit every taste and budget. In the heart of the city lies District 1, a bustling district that serves as the commercial and cultural hub of Ho Chi Minh City. In this article, we will take a closer look at the shopping malls in Ho Chi Minh, particularly District 1, exploring not only the diverse range of shops they offer but also the other attractions and amenities that make them popular destinations for locals and tourists alike.
5 Best Shopping Malls in Ho Chi Minh City You Should Visit
Vincom Center
Vincom Center Shopping Mall in Ho Chi Minh
Vincom Center is one of the most iconic shopping malls in District 1, located at the intersection of Dong Khoi Street and Le Thanh Ton Street – thereby making it very convenient for the major attractions of Ho Chi Minh City such as the Opera House and Book Street. This upscale mall boasts a wide range of international and luxury brands, including fashion, accessories, cosmetics, and electronics. In addition to shopping, Vincom Center also features a large cinema complex as well as an enormous food court. It is important to note that the lower floors are much larger than the ground and upper floors, so take the time to go down and explore.
The free Wi-Fi is good throughout the shopping mall – simply press the button to sign in and you will stay connected all day. There are clean and spacious toilets on every other level and there are maps on each floor to show where these are located.
There is plenty of parking at Vincom Center in the various basement levels with a general standard charge of about 5,000 VND for motorbikes and 30,000 VND for cars. If leaving by grab or taxi please note that there are a variety of exits so you do need to ensure that you order your grab for the correct location – there are clear signs of which road you are on at the entrances/exits.
- Location: 45A Ly Tu Trong, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Open: From 9:30 – 22:00
Read more: Exploring Hanoi’s Diverse Shopping Malls: A Shopper’s Paradise
Saigon Center
Saigon Center is located right in the city center
Saigon Center is another prominent shopping destination in District 1, situated along Le Loi Boulevard. You may initially find it difficult to find this as the entrance is tucked to the side and is attached to the upmarket Takashimaya department store. The easiest way to get in is to enter through Takashimaya and follow the signs to the other side.
As with Vincom Center, there is a large basement area in addition to ample parking – with a nominal parking fee.
There is a good variety of shops and cafes in Saigon Center along with a cinema complex. Perhaps one of its best features is a very nice free rooftop garden, which you can access by simply going up to the top floor and exiting the double doors.
Parking is plentiful and there is a very clear area where you can get picked up by taxi or grab.
- Location: 65 Le Loi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Open: From 9:00 – 22:00
Read more: Best shopping malls in Vietnam that you should visit once
Diamond Plaza
Diamond Plaza is a luxurious shopping center in Ho Chi Minh City
Diamond Plaza is a premier shopping mall situated on Nguyen Hue Boulevard, overlooking the cathedral and Book Street. It is well known for its very impressive outdoor displays – often using giant constructions to make an impression so it is a popular place for photographs. It is geared towards luxury brands, designer boutiques, and department stores, so it is more of a shopping mall.
There are toilets on each level which are very luxurious and next to the toilets there are seating areas and water dispensers along with free paper cups – so this is a great place to take a short air-conditioned rest if you find yourself in the center of Ho Chi Minh!
On the upper floors, there is a large cinema complex (with six different cinemas) and a whole games center – which includes a fantastic bowling alley! Prices are very reasonable (especially considering it is set within Diamond Plaza) and there is a daily discount for use during the morning/early afternoon hours.
The shopping malls of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City offer a wealth of shopping, dining, and entertainment options for locals and tourists alike. From luxury boutiques to international brands, from gourmet restaurants to casual eateries, these malls cater to every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a day of retail therapy, a delicious meal, or a fun-filled movie night, District 1 has it all. So, the next time you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to explore the vibrant shopping scene of District 1 and experience the best that the city has to offer.
- Location: 34 Le Duan, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Open: From 9:00 – 23:00
Read more: 4 most popular neighborhoods in Ho Chi Minh City for the expats
Nowzone Fashion Shopping Center Mall
Nowzone is always ranked among the shopping centers loved by many customers
Nowzone is located right in the city center, in District 1. At Nowzone, you’ll enjoy exciting shopping, entertainment, and a fantastic food area with a mix of traditional flavors and diverse Thai, Korean, and Chinese cuisine. At night, it looks even more beautiful with lights hanging from the trees around it. Compared to other malls like Vincom, Saigon Center or Diamond, Nowzone is great for shoppers on a budget.
Nowzone has four floors. The first three floors are for fashion, accessories, and toys. The 4th floor is a food court with a variety of food options. Make sure to buy a card for discounts on your food purchases. The 5th floor features a large and modern Lotte Cinema.
With a combination of shopping, dining, and entertainment, Nowzone Shopping Center promises to bring a fun and exciting experience to all customers.
- Location: 235 Nguyen Van Cu, Nguyen Cu Trinh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Open: From 9:30 – 22:00
Read more: 9+ biggest retail supermarkets in Vietnam
Central Market
Central Market Shopping Center is the perfect combination of traditional and modern markets
Central Market is a shopping center transformed from a traditional market. Featuring unique architecture that blends old and new styles, this creates a fun and intriguing place to explore.
At Central Market, you can freely choose your favorite items, from food, electronics, and household appliances to necessities, fashion, and accessories. After hours of shopping and sightseeing, you can relax at cozy coffee shops or enjoy tasty dishes at the Food Court. Prices here are especially affordable, so you can enjoy the services without worrying.
To better serve you, Central Market also offers convenience stores and currency exchange counters.
With its unique charm, convenience, and variety, Central Market is becoming a popular spot for young people in Saigon and a go-to shopping destination for families.
- Location: 04 Pham Ngu Lao, Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Open: From 10:00 – 21:00