Dong Ba Market – the largest and oldest traditional market in Hue, situated along the banks of the Perfume River near Truong Tien Bridge. It is an ideal spot to buy Hue specialty gifts and savor authentic local dishes amid a bustling traditional market atmosphere.
Quick Overview
- Address: 2 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Xuan Ward, Hue City
- Opening hours: Around 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM; the food court is usually busiest in the morning and afternoon
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Hue specialties, conical hats, dried goods, and an affordable food court
History and Features
- The market dates back to the Nguyen Dynasty and was originally named Quy Gia Thi.
- The name Dong Ba is linked to Dong Ba Gate of the Hue Imperial Citadel; in 1887, under Emperor Dong Khanh, the market received its current name.
- The market was relocated to the bank of the Perfume River and has undergone several reconstructions and renovations.
- The multi-story main building is organized by product categories: dried foods, handicrafts, and fabrics.
What to Buy at Dong Ba Market
- Me xung (sesame peanut candy), keo guong (peanut brittle), tom chua (sour fermented shrimp), mam ruoc (shrimp paste), mam nem, and various Hue fermented fish sauces.
- Conical hats, handicrafts, brassware, and souvenirs.
- Royal tea (Tra Cung Dinh), lotus seeds, and pre-packaged dried goods.
- Fabrics, ready-to-wear ao dai, and tailor-made ao dai.
What to Eat at Dong Ba Market
- Bun bo Hue (Hue beef noodle soup) served at market stalls.
- Banh beo, banh nam, and banh bot loc – iconic Hue steamed rice cakes.
- Nem lui (grilled pork skewers), bun thit nuong (grilled pork over rice noodles), and various street snacks.
- Hue sweet soups (che Hue) with a wide variety of flavors.
How to Get There
- The market is centrally located, just a short walk from Truong Tien Bridge.
- From hotel areas on the southern bank of the Perfume River, you can easily reach it on foot, by cyclo, taxi, or ride-hailing app.
- Motorbike parking is available around the market area.
Tips for Visitors
- Ask for prices and compare a few stalls before buying, and bargain politely when purchasing souvenirs.
- The market is crowded with narrow aisles, so keep an eye on your belongings.
- When buying fermented seafood sauces or tom chua, choose securely sealed jars for long-distance travel.
- Combine your trip with visits to Truong Tien Bridge, the Hue Imperial Citadel, and a stroll along the nearby Perfume River.
Reference Prices
- Bun bo Hue: around 20,000 – 30,000 VND/bowl.
- Banh beo: from around 5,000 VND/small dish.
- Banh bot loc: around 20,000 – 30,000 VND/plate.
- Nem lui: around 50,000 VND/portion for 2 people.
- Hue sweet soup: around 10,000 VND/cup.
- Poem conical hat (non la bai tho): around 150,000 – 250,000 VND each.
Prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the season and specific vendor.
Best Time to Visit
- Early morning from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM is when the market is liveliest with the freshest produce.
- The afternoon is better for bargaining when shopping for gifts and souvenirs.
- From around 6:00 PM, the Dong Ba night market operates, offering mainly affordable street snacks.
- During public holidays, Tet, and Hue Festival season, the market becomes very crowded, so take extra care of your personal belongings.
Useful Information for Visitors
- Payment: Mostly cash, cards are not accepted; some stalls accept QR code transfers, so it is advisable to bring small change.
- Restrooms: If needed, you should ask the market management board or use the restrooms at coffee shops along Tran Hung Dao Street.
- Language: Some souvenir vendors speak basic English and have received training in foreign language communication, while the rest primarily speak Vietnamese.
- Bargaining: Food is usually already cheap, but for souvenirs and clothing, you can bargain down to about 60–70% of the asking price.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the opening hours of Dong Ba Market?
The market usually operates from around 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The morning is when goods and food are at their most abundant.
What local specialties can you buy as gifts at Dong Ba Market?
Visitors often buy sesame candy (mè xửng), fermented sour shrimp, fermented shrimp paste (mắm ruốc), royal tea, and conical hats (nón lá).
How far is Dong Ba Market from the Hue Imperial City?
The market is located near the Thuong Tu Gate of the Imperial City, just a few minutes away by vehicle.
Need a guide when visiting Dong Ba Market?
- Post a free guide request – receive quotes from local tour guides and interpreters.
- View available tours or submit a customized tour request.
- Rent a vehicle and airport transfers.
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Market opening hours and operations are subject to change; please verify before your visit.
