Markets in Hanoi offer a vibrant and diverse shopping experience, catering to a wide range of needs and interests. From bustling tourist hubs featuring traditional souvenirs to local markets brimming with fresh vegetables and fruits, Hanoi’s markets have something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring wholesale flower markets at the break of dawn or browsing through markets filled with an array of household items that open later in the day, a visit to these markets promises an authentic and unforgettable local experience.
Tips for visiting markets in Hanoi
- Bargain for Better Deals: Bargaining is normal in Hanoi markets, so don’t be afraid to negotiate prices.
- Carry Small Change: Have small denominations of Vietnamese dong for smoother transactions.
- Explore Different Stalls: Compare prices and quality before making a purchase.
- Try Local Food: Sample delicious Vietnamese street food available in market food sections.
- Keep an Eye on Your Belongings: Stay mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
- Immerse in the Local Experience: Embrace the lively atmosphere and interact with friendly vendors to fully enjoy the vibrant local culture.
1. Weekend night market
Located in the heart of the city around the bustling streets near Hoan Kiem Lake, the Weekend Night Market takes place every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening from around 6 PM until 11 PM. What makes it truly special is that several streets are closed off to vehicles during this time, creating a pedestrian-friendly place where you can stroll freely without the usual hustle and bustle of motorbikes and cars. It offers a sense of peace and tranquility despite the crowds.
At the Weekend night market, you’ll find a wide variety of goods to buy. From trendy clothing and accessories to traditional handicrafts and souvenirs. The market is also famous for its delicious street food stalls, where you can savor local delicacies and satisfy your taste buds.
Moreover, the market is not just about shopping. It offers a lively and entertaining atmosphere with various performances taking place throughout the night. You can also witness elderly people dancing and children playing on the car and motorbike free streets.
2. Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market, located in the heart of Hanoi, is a bustling and iconic market that offers a wide variety of products and a vibrant atmosphere. From clothing, shoes, and accessories to electronics, household goods, and souvenirs, the market caters to diverse shopping needs.
The market also provides a glimpse into the local culture and daily life of Hanoi, with energetic vendors and shoppers haggling over prices, creating an authentic experience. Don’t miss the food section, where you can indulge in delicious Vietnamese street food, including iconic dishes like pho and banh mi.
With its rich history, the late 19th-century building of Dong Xuan Market showcases unique architecture that adds to its charm.
3. Quan Ba Flower market
This Quan Ba Flower market is a wholesale market in Hanoi dedicated to all things floral, showcasing a stunning array of flowers, plants, and foliage. The market starts as early as 3 AM, attracting vendors and buyers who want to catch the freshest blooms. It offers a wide variety of flowers, including roses, orchids, lilies, and many other species.
Flowers hold significant cultural importance in Vietnam and are used in various traditions and celebrations, such as weddings, funerals, Tet (Lunar New Year), and other religious and cultural ceremonies. Visiting the Quan Ba Flower market provides a unique insight in both a local market and the Vietnamese culture.
4. Long Bien market
The Long Bien market is a bustling wholesale market located in Hanoi. It is known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of products available at wholesale prices. The market is most busy in the early morning, particularly between 4 AM and 6 AM, when vendors and buyers gather to trade their goods.
At the Long Bien market, you can find a diverse array of products, including fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, meat, spices, and household items. It is a hub for local businesses, restaurants, and individuals looking to purchase goods in larger quantities.
A great tip is to combine a visit to the Long Bien market with witnessing the breathtaking sunrise at the nearby Long Bien Bridge.
5. Hang Da market
Hang Da market is a vibrant and bustling market located in the heart of Hanoi. It is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike, offering a diverse range of goods and a lively atmosphere. The market is known for its specialty in fresh produce, including a variety of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood. Additionally, it offers a selection of dried goods, spices, and local delicacies.
The market is busiest in the morning, as locals flock to purchase fresh ingredients for their daily meals. It is a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the hustle and bustle of a traditional Vietnamese market.
In addition to food items, Hang Da Market also features clothing, accessories, household goods, and souvenirs. Hang Da Market is less visited by tourist as the nearby Dong Xuan Market, making it feel an even more local and authentic experience.
6. Cho Hom Market
Cho Hom Market is especially known for its textile and clothing section, offering a wide selection of fabrics, garments, and accessories. From traditional Vietnamese ao dai to modern fashion trends, you can find an array of clothing options at affordable prices. It is a haven for those seeking quality fabrics and unique fashion pieces.
In addition to textiles, Cho Hom Market features various other sections, including fresh produce, seafood, kitchenware, household items, and electronics. It’s a vibrant marketplace where you can experience the lively atmosphere of bargaining and interacting with friendly vendors.
7. Gioi Market
Cho Gioi Market, also known as Gioi Market or Hoa Binh Market, is situated in Hanoi, approximately 2.5 km away from Hoan Kiem Lake and 3.5 km from Hanoi Old Quarter. Often referred to as a black market, this market offers a wide range of goods, from small items like nails and watch batteries to larger products such as motorbikes, electronics, and refrigerators. It has gained a reputation as a place where stolen items, such as motorcycle parts or household appliances, may end up.
Having been established during the subsidy period in 1954-1955, Gioi Market holds the distinction of being the oldest active temporary market in Hanoi, with a history spanning over 60 years. Thinh Yen Street, once known as Rue Dumoutier during the French colonial period, serves as one of the market’s gateways, offering a variety of music discs like CDs, VCDs, and DVDs. Moreover, the market is popular for both old and new electronic products, including televisions, amplifiers, and music players.
