Quang Ba Flower Market – a major wholesale fresh flower market in Hanoi, located on Au Co Street near West Lake. The market operates at night and is a popular rendezvous for flower lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Quick Overview
- Address: 236 Au Co, Hanoi (Quang An area, near West Lake)
- Opening hours: Around 23:00 – 6:00 the next morning; opens earlier during Tet
- Ticket price: Free
- Highlights: Wholesale-priced fresh flowers, bustling night market atmosphere
History and Characteristics
- The market serves as a gathering point for flowers arriving from flower-growing regions across northern Vietnam before being distributed throughout the inner city.
- The market gathers primarily at night, right when fresh flowers are transported in.
- During the day, the Au Co area still features numerous retail flower shops.
- During holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year), the market is busier and convenes earlier in the evening.
What Flowers to Buy at Quang Ba Flower Market
- Roses, chrysanthemums, lilies, tuberoses, and orchids sold by the bunch at wholesale prices.
- Less common flowers like delphiniums, tulips, and irises depending on the season.
- During Tet, there are additional peach blossoms, kumquat trees, and decorative flowers.
- Stalls toward the back of the market usually offer gentler prices.
How to Get There
- From the city center, travel by motorbike or taxi along Au Co Street, skirting West Lake.
- During the day, public bus routes run through the Au Co area.
- Motorbikes can be parked at parking lots near the market.
Tips for Visitors
- It is best to visit around 2:00 AM – 3:00 AM when the market has the fullest selection of flowers.
- Check the flowers carefully before purchasing to avoid mixed-in stale blooms.
- Buying in large bundles is cheaper; you can split the purchase with friends.
- After visiting the market, you can stroll around West Lake or visit Tay Ho Temple at dawn.
Reference Prices
- Red roses: over 200,000 VND/bunch around International Women's Day (March 8, 2025).
- Gladioli: around 170,000 VND/bunch around International Women's Day (March 8, 2025).
- Other flower varieties: around 160,000 VND/bunch around International Women's Day (March 8, 2025).
- Pre-arranged bouquets: around 300,000 – 500,000 VND/bouquet.
Prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the season and individual stalls.
Best Time to Visit
- The market gathers from around 23:00 until dawn, peaking between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM.
- Around 2:00 AM – 3:00 AM is when supplies have fully arrived, making it easier to select beautiful flowers at good prices.
- Leading up to February 14, March 8, October 20, and the days right before Tet, the market is extremely crowded and flower prices rise.
- During Tet, peach blossoms, kumquat plants, and a wide variety of holiday flowers are on display.
Useful Information for Visitors
- Payment: Wholesale transactions are mainly conducted in cash; many vendors accept QR bank transfers, but it is advisable to bring small-denomination cash.
- Restrooms: Since the market takes place in the middle of the night, few facilities are open; it is recommended to use the restroom before arriving.
- Language: Sellers are predominantly wholesale merchants who speak almost exclusively Vietnamese; consider using a translation app or going with a local guide.
- Preparation: Bring a flashlight to inspect stems and petals closely, and kindly ask vendors for permission before taking photos.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Quang Ba Flower Market open?
The market operates from around 11:00 PM to 6:00 AM the following morning, and may open from around 9:00 PM during the Tet holiday season.
Does Quang Ba Flower Market sell retail?
Yes, many stalls sell retail, but you will get the best prices when buying by the bunch.
When is the best time to visit Quang Ba Flower Market?
Around 2:00 AM to 3:00 AM is when the market has the most flowers and is at its liveliest.
Need a guide when visiting Quang Ba Flower Market?
- Post a free tour guide request – receive quotes from local guides and interpreters.
- View available tours or request a customized tour.
- Vehicle rentals and airport transfers.
See More
Market hours and operations are subject to change; please verify before your visit.