Dazzling Vietnam’s night markets

The night markets are a fascinating option for those who enjoy excitement, bustle, and fun. Without a doubt, this is a must-see location when traveling to Vietnam. Vietnam's night market is more than just a place to exchange and trade goods; it also possesses the region's beauty, which is considered the soul, reflecting the beauty in the people's everyday lives.

People are drawn to Vietnam's night market by the laughter of sellers and buyers, who are caught up in the street vendors selling authentic Vietnamese cuisine and drinks on both sides of the road. Many visitors visit Vietnam's famed marketplaces, which let us learn about the life of new land.

Let's take a look at the most well-known markets in Vietnam. From north to south, to learn more about the dynamic and distinctive night market culture. Have fun shopping!

1.    Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market

Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market is one of the most stunning night markets in Vietnam and the highlight of the street at night. On the way to Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Hang Duong, etc. With over 4000 large and small stalls, the atmosphere seems to be brighter and busier at night.

Not only does it convey the chaotic sound of a Vietnam night market with the sound of traffic and people laughing, but the colors here are extremely vibrant.

This is one of the most stunning Vietnam’s night markets

The booths are painted in vibrant colors to grab the attention of all visitors. Goods are sold in a variety of ways, from essentials to fine crafts, souvenirs, and so on. The booths always vary according to the festivals and important occasions of the year, such as sparkling lanterns for the Mid-Autumn Festival, Christmas decorations, traditional New Year decorations, and so on. All of the colors appear to glow brilliantly, contributing to a lively section of Vietnam’s night market.

Not only does the eye-catching lighting draw attention, but the vibrant atmosphere also attracts passersby with an exceptionally rich gastronomic paradise, leaving an indelible memory in the hearts of diners. Interwoven throughout the streets, the enticing aromas of food and drinks due to the range of Asian-European meals, regional specialties in Vietnam, delicious grilled skewers, hot fried meals, vermicelli, cakes, sour rolls, teas, rice rolls,...

Street food in Hanoi Old Quarter night market 

Especially every Saturday night, this place also has folk art and folklore, exciting performances by young people. It's a perfect place for exchanging and spreading culture with everyone. Indeed, Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market is an attractive choice for many people, an option not to be missed when coming to Hanoi.
Opening Hours: Friday - Sunday 19:00 - 23:00
Address: Hang Dao Street, Old Quarter, Hanoi

2.    Hoi An night market 

When night falls, Hoi An is like a new garment, glistening with hundreds of magically lighted lanterns, as opposed to the beauty of the morning. The Hoi An Night Market is approximately 300m wide, with up to 50 stalls extending along Nguyen Hoang street and in the center of the old town adjacent to the river. Here, products and items of various kinds are available, including souvenirs, local food, clothing, luggage, and more. The market is open from 5:00 p.m until 11:00 p.m.

Hoi An Night Market is one of the most bustling of Vietnam's night markets

Many people are amazed by the sight of the market with glittering lights and beautiful handicrafts galleries when they visit the Hoi An night market. Lanterns are another popular handcrafted product in Hoi An, and travelers frequently purchase them as mementos. The vibrant folk performances are another highlight of a visit to Vietnam’s night market.

Hoi An from riverside view

Walking around the night market and stopping to eat wonderful cuisine, speak with locals, and learn more about their culture is an experience you should not miss.

After walking through the night market, tourists can stop at Cau Pagoda and go into the center of the ancient town to view the scenery and take photographs. If you're searching for a peaceful spot to watch the city at night, the high-view café overlooking the street and River is a great option.
Opening Hours: 17:00 - 23:00
Address: Nguyen Hoang street, Hoi An

3.    Ben Thanh night market

Ben Thanh Market, with over a hundred years of existence, has become a testimony to the history of Ho Chi Minh City.  With about 1,437 stalls and 6,000 businesses, it is one of the largest of Vietnam's night markets.

Ben Thanh Market 

Inside the Ben Thanh night market, there is a cuisine offering a wide variety of foods from the south to the north of Vietnam.

If you don't feel like eating, let's go to Ben Thanh night market, you'll discover a range of local food including noodles and various rice dishes. Ben Thanh market attracts tourists due to its high-quality items and lowers costs when compared to other night markets in southern Vietnam.

Ben Thanh Night Market is a haven of local cultural beauty in Vietnam's night markets

From simple baked items like grilled ribs, grilled chicken, and grilled corn to more elaborate dishes including grape leaves, grilled meat, and baked buns. You will hardly be able to hold onto the incredible booths.
Opening Hours: 17:00 - 23:00
Address: The East and West Gates of Ben Thanh Market, District 1, Ho Chi Minh city. 

Vietnam is not only famous for its beautiful sites and historical attractions but also its traditional culture. If you enjoy the crowdedness and excitement of night markets and express the locals' daily lifestyle around market zones, a trip to Vietnam's night markets would be an unforgettable experience.