Vietnam is a rapidly-developing country; as a result, its urban centres are home to several impressive shopping malls that cater to every taste and budget.
From sprawling commercial complexes boasting international brands to shopping centres that blend modern amenities with traditional charm, Vietnam is quickly becoming a shopper's paradise.
This guide will take you on a tour of some of Vietnam's most renowned shopping malls, specifically in Ho Chi Minh City, one of its bustling metropolises.
1. Exploring the Charming Shopping Mall Saigon Square - District 1
Situated a stone's throw away from the famous Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square is one of the most visited shopping destinations in Ho Chi Minh City.
Known for its lively atmosphere and an array of items ranging from clothes, jewellery to household commodities, Saigon Square offers an authentic Vietnamese shopping experience.
The shopping mall is renowned for its reasonable prices and a culture of bargaining that thrives here, making it a hit amongst locals and tourists alike.
Despite the hustle and bustle, the mall is well-equipped with amenities like air conditioning, providing a respite from the city's tropical heat.
You'll find numerous food and drink stalls nearby for a quick bite post-shopping. Saigon Square is located at the intersection of Nam Kỳ Khởi and Le Loi, welcoming shoppers from 8 am until 10 pm.
2. The Magnificence of Vincom Center - District 1
The Vincom Center complex, divided into Vincom Center A and Vincom Center B, symbolises luxury and modernity in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City.
2.1 Vincom Center A: A Blend of Luxury and Tradition
Vincom Center A, housed in a stunning French-style building, epitomises upscale shopping in Vietnam. Walking through its hallways, you'll find many high-end fashion brands, electronic stores, and unique shops selling household items.
For families, there's a dedicated kids' area in the basement, and several food outlets, including the notable Paris Baguette, a bakery chain popular in the city.
Vincom Center A is located at 171 Dong Khoi and welcomes shoppers from 9 am until 10 pm.
2.2 Vincom Center B: Modernity at Its Best
Residing in a towering glass skyscraper, Vincom Center B is the epitome of modern shopping. With only a few of its 26 stories dedicated to the mall, it still accommodates a wide range of fashion, technology, and entertainment stores.
Inside this expansive mall, you'll also find a supermarket, a cinema, and a health clinic. For foodies, there's a variety of restaurants serving Thai, Japanese, Italian, and American cuisines.
Vincom Center B, situated at 72 Le Thanh Ton Street, is a short walk from the Saigon River and matches Vincom Center A in its opening hours.
3. Diamond Plaza - The Jewel of District 1
Diamond Plaza is a luxury shopping centre that opened its doors in 1999, captivating visitors with its magnificent glass facade.
Located in District 1, the plaza offers a variety of stores selling electronics, cosmetics, and entertainment, fitting perfectly with the colonial charm of its surroundings.
The mall offers a world-class shopping experience, with the first floor dedicated to cosmetics and jewellery and the second-floor hosting designer clothing.
But shopping isn't the only attraction here - Diamond Plaza also houses a bowling alley, a cinema, and an arcade, making it an ideal spot for leisure and recreation.
Located at 34 Le Duan Street, just a few blocks from the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Saigon Post Office, Diamond Plaza is open from 9:30 am until 10 pm.
4. Saigon Garden Mall - The Green Oasis in District 12
The Saigon Garden Mall is a unique shopping destination in Ho Chi Minh City, known for its eco-friendly design and blend of urban and rural elements. The first floor of this mall is primarily dedicated to food outlets, while the second floor hosts one of the city's largest bookstores, bolstering over 50,000 titles.
Other attractions include the Theatre de Cholon, a 150-seat venue hosting traditional Vietnamese performing arts, and the One Club Fitness and Yoga Center.
Located at 190 Hong Bang Street in District 12, Saigon Garden Mall is a must-visit for eco-conscious shoppers.
5. ICON68 - The Crown Jewel of District 1
Nestled in the heart of District 1 within the towering Bitexco Financial Tower, ICON68 is a six-story shopping mall featuring some of the world's top brands and stores.
Whether you're looking to buy a new gadget or merely window shopping, ICON68 has something for everyone.
The mall also boasts an extensive food court on its top floors and a unique feature - the Saigon Skydeck. This observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of the city, making ICON68 one of the city's prime shopping destinations.
The mall is open from 9:30 am until 9:30 pm on weekdays, with an extra hour of operation on weekends.
6. Landmark 81 - The Sky High Shopping Experience in Binh Thanh
Landmark 81, the tallest building in Vietnam, opened its doors to the public in July 2018. This towering skyscraper, primarily funded by Vietnamese real estate giants Vinhomes, is located on the banks of the Saigon River in the Binh Thanh District.
The Vincom Center Landmark 81, the mall inside the building, spans six floors and covers an area of 59,000 m2. Visitors can find an array of world-renowned brands and many amenities, including a cinema, the largest ice rink in the country, and over 30 restaurants serving global cuisines.
The mall also features a massive toy store called Funnyland, which is perfect for kids. Visitors can also explore the observation deck on the top three floors, offering breathtaking views of the city and the Saigon River.
The mall is open from 9:30 am until 10 pm.
7. Pearl Plaza - The Twin Gems in District 2 and Binh Thanh
Despite their size differences, the Pearl Plaza malls in Districts 1 and 2 offer unique shopping experiences. The smaller Pearl Plaza Thao Dien in District 2 is in the heart of a backpacking district, offering a range of shops and a UFC Gym.
Pearl Plaza 2 in Binh Thanh district, on the other hand, is much larger, offering more shops and additional amenities for those residing in the apartments above.
As Vietnam continues to develop, its cities and shopping malls are becoming more diverse and appealing, matching the needs and tastes of every shopper.
With an array of stores, activities, and restaurants, these malls, housed in some of the tallest buildings in Vietnam, offer a fun-filled and rewarding shopping experience.
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