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Hanoi local markets not only serve as basic platforms for exchanging goods and commercial activities. They are also social hubs where people gather to share daily stories and engage in cultural and traditional practices. People visit markets not only to make purchases but also to immerse themselves in a unique environment. Therefore, exploring local markets offers a valuable opportunity to witness the authentic daily lives of the locals.
If you're planning a trip to Hanoi, don't miss the chance to experience its distinctive markets. In this article, we present a list of the Top 10 most special Hanoi markets.
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1. Top 10 Best Hanoi Markets
1.1. Dong Xuan Market
A symbol of Hanoi, Dong Xuan Market is one of the largest covered markets in northern Vietnam.
Historical records indicate that the Nguyen Dynasty established a market in the southern part of the citadel, 800 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, in 1804 to facilitate the arrival of ships to trade. In 1889, the French government planned and relocated all stores to an empty plot in the Dong Xuan district. The market was then constructed in 1890, spanning 6,500 square meters and featuring French architecture.
Behind this century-old market lies the lively local market of Bac Qua-Cau Dong. Consider combining a visit to Dong Xuan with a trip to this vibrant market.
- Opening hours: 06:00 AM - 06:00 PM
- Address: Dong Xuan Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
1.2. Quang Ba Flower Market
Quang Ba Flower Market is a Hanoi icon, renowned not only as a bustling wholesale market but also as a cultural treasure. This vibrant hub supplies the city with a dazzling array of fresh flowers, while also offering visitors a sensory feast of fragrant blooms.
No one remembers when the market was established; they only know that it has existed for a long time. Flower growers from nearby villages converge here daily to showcase their colorful fresh flowers.
- Opening hours: 02:00 AM to 10:00 AM.
- Address: 236 Au Co, Quang An commune, Tay Ho district, Hanoi
1.3. Flea Market - Cho Gioi
Hanoi Flea Market was formed during the subsidy period in 1954-1955, so far this is the oldest temporary market in Hanoi still active with an age of over 60 years.
For many Hanoians, the Cho Gioi flea market is associated with memories of when they wanted to buy goods out of state-owned commercial stores, not with "stamps," which are issued by the government that allow their owners to buy only a certain regulated amount of basic necessities.
- Opening hours: 06:00 AM. - 6:00 PM.
- Address: Thinh Yen Street and Tran Cao Van Street, Pho Hue commune, Hai Ba Trung district, Hanoi
1.4. Long Bien Market
Long Bien Market is located near Long Bien Bridge and in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Being a wholesale market, the products traded here are very diverse; especially vegetables, fruits and other agricultural products.
The market has been in operation for more than 20 years and is an important commercial place in Ba Dinh district. When the streets light up, and the residents go to sleep in a completely quiet environment after a busy working day, the market starts its liveliest time. This is probably why many people call the Long Bien market by its special name, the "sleepless" market of Hanoi.
- Opening hours: 01:00 AM - 06:00 AM
- Address: 189 Hong Ha Street, Phuc Xa commune, Hanoi, next to Long Bien Bridge
1.5. Hang Be Market
Hang Be Market is not only a familiar address for many people in the Old Quarter, it is also a place frequently visited by foodies and a daily market for many people. The market is located only hundreds of metres from Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi.
The small market is only a few hundred metres away but is very famous for its ready-made dishes of selected quality, taste delicious as homemade, so they also win over foodies.
On public holidays, especially before Tet - Vietnam's Lunar New Year, Hang Be market is always crowded given the increased demand to buy more beautiful and good dishes to worship the ancestors.
- Opening hours: 07:00 AM - 6:00 AM
- Address: Gia Ngu Street, Hang Bac Commune, Hanoi
1.6. Dong Xuan Night Market
The Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market, also known by many by the name, Dong Xuan Night Market, has been one of the busiest and most interesting places in Hanoi.
The night market in Hanoi's Old Quarter is located on three main streets: Hang Dao Street, Hang Ngang Street and Hang Duong Street, with a total length of about 3km, right in the pedestrian zone in Hoan Kiem District. Therefore, besides shopping for souvenirs, fashionable clothes,... You can discover many other cultural activities, especially when there are big festivals.
- Opening hours: 06:00 PM - 11:00 PM every Friday, Saturday and Sunday
- Address: Hang Dao Street - Hang Ngang - Hang Duong
1.7. Cho Buoi Market
Cho Buoi Market is located in the Ke Buoi area (the old name of Tay Ho district and a part of Cau Giay district) and is one of the oldest markets in Hanoi that still maintains the operation of a fair.
On the 4th, 9th, 14th, 19th, 24th, and 29th of the lunar calendar, people in the vicinity come there to sell and buy vegetables, seeds, farm equipment, domestic animals, and village handicrafts. It does not matter whether it is sunny or rainy. The market is always full of buyers and sellers as the particularity of a market in the countryside in the middle of the capital, Hanoi.
In the market, there is an ancient banyan tree over 100 years old that is a witness to this special market. According to locals, it was the place where buffaloes and cows were tied up, especially at the end of the year.
- Opening hours: Mornings of the 4th, 9th, 14th, 19th, 24th and 29th of the lunar calendar
- Address: At the intersection of Lac Long Quan Street, Hoang Hoa Tham Street and Thuy Khue Street
1.8. Cho Hom Market
Cho Hom Market (or Cho Hom Duc Vien) is one of the most famous markets in Hanoi and an ideal destination for housewife shopping. Here, you can find almost all the items needed for daily life, including clothes, textiles, food, fresh fruits, etc.
The most popular item in this market is textiles. The designs and types of fabrics are extremely rich. Customers can choose from fabrics for making clothes, blankets, curtains, etc. Fabrics also come in many types, from popular to high-class.
Besides textiles, the market is famous for various street food. Although the average price is quite high, it is absolutely worth taking these "street foods" for their deliciousness.
- Opening Hours: 08:00 AM - 6:00 PM
- Address: 79 Pho Hue Street, Hai Ba Trung District, Hanoi
1.9. Hang Luoc Flower Market
Formed in the early 20th century, Hang Luoc Market is the oldest flower market in Hanoi. Gather right in the heart of the Old Quarter, the market is like a fair before Tet, Vietnam's Lunar New Year. Full of the colours of decorations, spring flowers, people go to Hang Luoc market not only to buy items for Tet but also to enjoy the traditional vibe.
Now, Hang Luoc market is also extended to Phung Hung Street as an exhibition of traditional handicrafts to preserve culture and tradition in modern life.
- Opening Hours: Before Tet, normally around January-February, depending on the year.
- Address: Hang Ma Street - Hang Luoc- Phung Hung
1.10. Old Quarter in Hanoi - a unique "market"
It is not too strange that we include the ancient quarter in Hanoi in this list. Once upon a time, it was called "the land of Ke Cho," meaning a big market for its 36 street guilds, each selling a distinct commodity. In Hanoi, whenever you go out, you almost immediately find the item you want without the need to go so far. Stores are scattered everywhere, and it really is a huge market.
With globalisation, the area is now a bit touristy but still retains its charming beauty. It is full of life, with lots of stores, lots of restaurants, and even stalls on the sidewalks.
- Opening Hours: 24/7
- Address: Hoan Kiem District
2. Practical Tips When Going to Markets in Vietnam
We've listed the top 10 most popular markets in Hanoi above. Let's uncover some insider tips that you can apply when shopping at any local market in Vietnam as well as this beautiful city.
2.1. The best time to go to a Hanoi market
You can go to the local Hanoi market early in the morning, late in the morning, early in the afternoon, or evening, depending on the type of market.
Most day markets, like Dong Xuan or Hang Be, are open all day. Late morning and early afternoon are both good times to explore the stalls, bargain for souvenirs, and sample local street food. Meanwhile, some night markets start in the late afternoon and end in the evening. This is the prime time to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Hanoi's night markets. You'll find a wide range of goods, from clothing and accessories to street food and handicrafts.
For a colorful and fragrant experience, visit the flower market before sunrise. This is when the market is most active, with a dazzling array of flowers.
Additionally, weekdays can be less crowded, making it easier to explore and shop. Weekends, on the other hand, offer a more lively and festive atmosphere.
Of all year round, these markets are most crowded during the Tet Lunar New Year, when you can see people open some more temporary markets to sell decorations, ornamental plants, and food serving for the biggest holiday in Vietnam.
2.2. How to bargain?
Even if you are a first-time Hanoi traveler, you can try to bargain a bit. By doing that, you let the seller know you really want the product they are selling and the seller should give the most affordable price.
To successfully bargain at a Hanoi market, start low and be patient. Offer a bit lower than the asking price, and you can even prepare to walk away. Pay in local dong to show that you understand Vietnamese currency. Practice your skills on smaller items first and learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases such as "đắt quá" (too expensive), "giảm giá cho tôi một chút nhé" (could you reduce the price a bit).
Also, please maintain a friendly tone and smile. Bargaining is a fun and interactive experience, so enjoy the process!
Today, with the development of technology and the increased need to shop without physical moves, there are so many trading platforms in Vietnam now such as Lazada, Shopee, Sendo,... However, traditional markets in Hanoi still have their own position in daily life and especially in the hearts of local people. If you would like to add a local market in your itinerary, feel free to let us know. IZITOUR's local travel experts are ready to customize your memorable trip.
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