Explore the 6 Best Markets in Hanoi for an Authentic Shopping Experience

Hanoi is a city where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly, and its markets are a perfect reflection of this unique charm. Whether you're looking for souvenirs, street food, fresh flowers, or a glimpse into the local way of life, these markets will offer an unforgettable experience.

1. Đồng Xuân Market – Hanoi’s Largest Wholesale Market

Location: Old Quarter, Hoàn Kiếm District

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Best for: Wholesale goods, textiles, souvenirs, local food

What Makes It Special?

• As the largest and oldest market in Hanoi, Đồng Xuân is a bustling hub of commerce, offering everything from clothing, fabrics, electronics, and household items to dried food and local delicacies.

• The market is divided into sections:

  • Ground floor: Clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and dry food.

  • Upper floors: Wholesale goods and imported products.

• It's not a touristy market—locals come here for business, making it a great spot to observe the real Hanoi.

Food Experience

• Right outside the market is a famous street food area, where you can try bún chả (grilled pork with noodles), phở tíu (dry pho with peanuts), bánh giò (Vietnamese dumplings), and bánh tôm (shrimp pancakes).

• Don't miss the egg coffee in nearby Old Quarter cafés.

Traveler Tips

• Bargaining is expected, but keep it friendly.

• Some vendors sell only in bulk, so ask before purchasing.

• Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas.

A small corner at Dong Xuan Market - Source: Facebook Thùy Linh

2. Hanoi Weekend Night Market – A Cultural Wonderland

Location: Hàng Đào Street to Hàng Giấy Street, Old Quarter

Opening Hours: Friday – Sunday, 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Best for: Handicrafts, souvenirs, street food, vibrant nightlife

What Makes It Special?

• Every weekend, this market transforms Hanoi’s Old Quarter into a lively, colorful shopping street filled with handicrafts, jewelry, paintings, and traditional Vietnamese clothes.

• It’s a great place to soak up the city's nightlife and festive atmosphere with street performances and traditional music shows.

Food Experience

• Try Hanoi’s famous nem chua rán (fried fermented pork rolls), bánh tráng nướng (Vietnamese pizza), and thịt xiên nướng (grilled skewers).

• Nearby Hàng Buồm Street has many dessert shops offering sweet soups, fruit smoothies, and iced coconut coffee.

Traveler Tips

• The market gets very crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.

• Prices are affordable, but you can still bargain for a better deal.

• After shopping, take a short walk to Tạ Hiện Street, Hanoi’s famous beer street, for a fun nightlife experience.

Experiencing nighttime cuisine at Hanoi's markets will bring visitors many exciting experiences. - Source: Lan Ng

3. Hang Da Market – The Vintage & Second-Hand Treasure Hunt

Location: Hoàn Kiếm District

Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Best for: Second-hand fashion, vintage clothing, leather goods

What Makes It Special?

• This market is a hidden gem for fashion lovers, known for selling high-quality second-hand clothes, vintage bags, and designer pieces at bargain prices.

• There is also a selection of leather shoes, belts, and accessories, making it a paradise for those hunting unique fashion finds.

Traveler Tips

• Go early to find the best deals on vintage items.

• Some vendors don’t allow trying on clothes, so check carefully before purchasing.

4. Quang Ba Flower Market – A Colorful Night Market

Location: Tây Hồ District

Opening Hours: Midnight – 6:00 AM

Best for: Fresh flowers, photography, experiencing local life

What Makes It Special?

• The biggest wholesale flower market in Hanoi, with blooms from all over Vietnam, including roses, orchids, lilies, and cherry blossoms.

• A photographer’s dream, especially in the early morning when flower vendors arrange their stalls beautifully.

• A rare opportunity to witness Hanoians start their day, as many shop owners come here to buy flowers for resale.

Traveler Tips

• Arrive around 4:00 – 5:00 AM for the best atmosphere and photos.

• The market is not touristy, so don’t expect English-speaking vendors.

• You can buy fresh flowers at local prices, but bring small cash for easier transactions.

Countless types of flowers are displayed for sale at the market - Source: Facebook Chợ Hoa Quảng Bá

5. Long Biên Market – The Bustling Wholesale Market

Location: Near Long Biên Bridge

Opening Hours: Midnight – 5:00 AM

Best for: Fresh produce, seafood, experiencing Hanoi at night

What Makes It Special?

• This is Hanoi’s largest wholesale market for fruits, vegetables, and seafood, where goods are transported from all over Vietnam.

• A unique experience if you want to see the "behind-the-scenes" of Hanoi’s food supply chain.

• The market is busiest between 2:00 – 4:00 AM, when traders buy produce in bulk for morning markets.

Traveler Tips

• Visit before sunrise to capture the chaotic yet mesmerizing scenes of Hanoi’s working-class life.

• The market is not designed for tourists, so expect a raw, authentic experience.

• Beware of slippery floors and fast-moving carts carrying heavy goods.

Visitors can buy fresh food and seafood at Long Bien Market - Source: Facebook Bến Cảng Long Biển

6. Nha Xanh Market – The Student Shopping Hub

Location: Near Hanoi’s university area

Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Best for: Affordable clothes, accessories, fast fashion

What Makes It Special?

• A budget-friendly shopping spot, perfect for those looking for trendy clothes, bags, and accessories at low prices.

• Popular among local university students, so you can experience how young Hanoians shop and dress.

Traveler Tips

• Most items do not have price tags, so bargaining is expected.

• Unlike big markets, this place offers a casual, laid-back shopping experience.

Affordable clothing is the top choice when visiting Nha Xanh Market - Source: Facebook Hoa Anh Pham

Which Market Should You Visit?

• For food & culture: Đồng Xuân Market, Night Market

• For unique souvenirs: Night Market, Hàng Da Market

• For photography: Quảng Bá Flower Market, Long Biên Market

• For cheap shopping: Nhà Xanh Market

• For an authentic experience: Long Biên Market

After exploring the vibrant stalls of the market, consider visiting some of museums in Hanoi Vietnam, such as the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology or the Vietnamese Women's Museum, to delve deeper into the region's rich cultural tapestry. Additionally, strolls around picturesque West Lake or historic Hanoi Hoan Kiem lake provide refreshing breaks from the bustling markets, offering serene views and tranquility amidst the urban landscape.

Hanoi’s markets are more than just places to shop—they are vibrant cultural hubs where you can experience the city’s rhythm, flavors, and traditions. No matter which market you visit, you’re sure to discover something special! Be sure to add them to your itinerary for an unforgettable experience in Hanoi with Joytime!