Hanoi night market

If you are planning a trip to Vietnam’s capital, a visit to the Hanoi Night Market is worth a try. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, diverse street food, and countless shopping opportunities, this market is one of the best places to experience local culture at night.

Overview of Hanoi Night Market

Hanoi Night Market is located in the heart of the Old Quarter, stretching from Hang Dao Street to the end at the Dong Xuan market. It opens every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, from 6 pm to 11 pm. The market attracts thousands of locals and foreigners to discover nightlife and shopping.

You can also visit the Old Quarter during the day on weekends, when all vehicles are prohibited, and this area is reserved for walking and shopping.

What to Buy at Hanoi Night Market?

You can find a wide range of items at affordable prices, including:

Clothes and Accessories

Want to bring back some “BOUGHT IN VIETNAM” clothes? You’ll find all kinds of things here - like t-shirts with Vietnamese designs, light dresses, fake designer brands, and even traditional outfits like the Ao Dai.
There are also lots of accessories, such as:

• Traditional Vietnamese hats (Non La)
• Colorful silk scarves
• Handmade bags
• Jewelry and more

• Lacquerware (shiny boxes, bowls, and trays)
• Ceramics
• Hand-painted silk products
• Embroidered items

• Conical hats (Non La) – a symbol of Vietnam
• Silk scarves and clothing – Vietnam is famous for silk
• Wooden carvings – boxes, figurines, and decorations
• Paintings – many show scenes of Hanoi

Electronics

Note: Prices here are generally cheaper than in shops, and most vendors are friendly and welcoming. Bargaining is still possible, but not always necessary. Just remember to double-check the price before buying to avoid misunderstanding.

What Food Should You Try at Hanoi Night Market?

Your trip will not be perfect without trying out a ton of delicious street food courts along the way. This is a great place where you can enjoy all of the authentic traditional dishes of Vietnam, including Vietnamese noodles (chicken, beef, pork, and seafood), bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), Vietnamese bread, and many other superb dishes. These dishes are not only delicious but also budget-friendly, perfect for backpackers and food lovers alike.

What Cultural Experiences and Entertainment Can You Find at Hanoi Night Market?

Moreover, you should not miss Ta Hien Street, where you can treat yourself to a fresh beer at a reasonable price. You can also join with locals in some small bars with live music and slight food.

What tips should you know before visiting Hanoi Night Market?

• Bring Cash When Shopping

When you visit the Hanoi Night Market, it's important to carry cash, especially in small amounts.
Use small bills to avoid getting too much change back. Most vendors don’t accept cards, so having the right cash will make shopping smoother and quicker.

• Watch your belongings, as the market can get crowded, and pickpocketing sometimes happens.

• Park your vehicles outside the market because there is no vehicles are allowed to go inside

• Wear comfortable shoes because you’ll be walking quite a lot, and the narrow streets, along with the crowd, can make it difficult to move around in any footwear that isn’t sturdy.
• Inspect Before You Buy: Take a good look at things before buying, especially clothes, souvenirs, or anything that says it’s a brand name.

• Don’t Expect Perfection: Remember, this is a market, not a fancy store, so the products might not be perfect

Nearby Attractions

Water Puppet Show

Walk around the Old Quarter to discover narrow streets, old buildings, hidden temples, and cozy cafes. It’s a great way to soak in the vibe of Hanoi.

Suggested Itinerary

Hanoi Night Market is more than just a shopping spot - it’s an experience that combines food, culture, and local life. With cheap prices, friendly vendors, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a must-see destination in the Old Quarter. Just remember to keep your belongings safe, check prices carefully, and enjoy the unique energy of Hanoi at night.