Ho Chi Minh City (TP HCM) was ranked 16th among the top 50 most attractive shopping destinations globally for 2026, according to a list published by Travel And Tour World (TTW) magazine on 10/9. The city was lauded for having "the most vibrant shopping scene in Southeast Asia", a distinction earned through its unique blend of traditional markets, local designer boutiques, and modern shopping malls.

The city appeals to travelers seeking unique handicrafts, textiles, and Vietnamese-inspired fashion. A TTW representative highlighted Ben Thanh Market and other local markets as popular spots for purchasing clothing and souvenirs, offering visitors the chance to experience bargaining like a local.

"The shopping experience in TP HCM is vibrant, highly interactive, and fosters a strong connection between visitors and locals," a TTW representative stated.

Tourists waiting for wooden clogs to be made at Tan Dinh Market, TP HCM. Photo: Tran Quynh.

Tourists waiting for wooden clogs to be made at Tan Dinh Market, TP HCM. Photo: Tran Quynh.

London claimed the top spot on this year's list, with Milan, New York, Shanghai, Paris, Tokyo, Zurich, Sydney, Seoul, and Vienna following.

The ranking criteria encompassed various factors: overall shopping experience, luxury retail systems, renowned shopping streets, traditional markets, local handicrafts, pricing, sustainable shopping practices, retail infrastructure, the presence of international brands, and unique local products.

TTW's tourism experts further refined the rankings based on extensive research into global retail trends, the behavior of shopping tourists, destination attractiveness, the luxury goods market, and evolving traveler preferences.

According to the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, TP HCM welcomed over 43,2 million visitors during the first eight months of the year, including 7,8 million international arrivals. Total tourism revenue was estimated at nearly 260 trillion VND, achieving 70% to 78% of the annual target.

By Anh Minh (Source: TTW)