Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market – Weekend stroll along Hang Dao Street

Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market – a pedestrian market held on weekend evenings along the street axis from Hang Dao to Dong Xuan Market. The market is the easiest way to stroll around the Old Quarter, shop for gifts, and enjoy evening snacks.

History and Characteristics

• The market is set up right in the middle of the street, with temporary stalls stretching across several blocks.
• It operates only on weekend evenings; during weekdays, regular traffic flows through the streets.
• Goods mainly cater to tourists and locals taking an evening stroll.
• The atmosphere is liveliest between 20:00 and 22:00.

What to Buy at Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market

• Hand-embroidered items such as bags, tablecloths, and lacquerware for souvenirs.
• Affordably priced T-shirts, clothing, and accessories.
• Souvenirs, keychains, and small decorative items.
• Toys and miscellaneous knick-knacks.

What to Eat at Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market

• Grilled corn, grilled skewers, and pre-cut fresh fruits sold along the street.
• Banh mi, iced tea, and sugarcane juice at sidewalk stalls.
• The alleys around Dong Xuan Market feature numerous late-night eateries.

How to Get There

• From Hoan Kiem Lake, it is about a 5-minute walk north to the start of Hang Dao Street.
• If you are farther away, take a taxi or ride-hailing service to the Hoan Kiem Lake area and walk over.
• Vehicles are prohibited on the market streets, so park your vehicle on nearby streets.

Tips for Visitors

• Bring cash, as most stalls do not accept card payments.
• Bargain politely, as initial asking prices are often negotiable.
• Keep a close eye on your wallet and phone during peak hours due to the large crowds.
• You can combine this with a walk around Hoan Kiem Lake and its pedestrian zone, which also opens on weekends.

Reference Prices

• Grilled corn: around 15,000–20,000 VND/ear.
• Banh mi: around 30,000–50,000 VND each.
• Tea, soft drinks: around 10,000–20,000 VND/cup.
• Small souvenirs: from around 30,000 VND/item.
• T-shirts, tote bags: around 80,000–100,000 VND each after bargaining.

Prices are for reference only and may vary by season and individual stall.

Best Time to Visit

• The market is held only on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, from around 18:00 to 23:00.
• Around 18:30–19:30, it is still relatively uncrowded, making it easy to take photos and browse items.
• Around 19:30–22:00 is the liveliest period; stalls start packing up after 22:30.
• During holidays, Tet, and peak tourist seasons, the pedestrian zone around the market gets very crowded.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Payment: Most stalls accept cash, and some accept QR code transfers, so it is advisable to bring cash in denominations of 10,000–100,000 VND.
• Restrooms: The market does not have its own restrooms; you should use the public restrooms around Hoan Kiem Lake or at nearby cafes.
• Language: Some souvenir vendors speak basic English, while the rest primarily speak Vietnamese.
• Safety: It gets very crowded during peak hours, so wear your bag in front and avoid keeping your phone in your back pocket.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time does the Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market open?

The market is held from Friday to Sunday evenings, typically from around 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Does the Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market take place on weekdays?

No, the market only takes place on the three weekend evenings.

What should I buy at the Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market?

Hand-embroidered goods, lacquerware, and small souvenirs are popular purchases.

See More

• Nam Dinh Rong Market
• Dong Xuan Market
• Long Bien Market
• Hom Market