Something special happens in Hanoi’s Old Quarter every weekend evening. As the sun sets, the old streets come alive with lights, sounds, and amazing smells as the Hanoi night market opens its doors. However, this isn’t just a regular market. Instead, it’s where old Vietnamese traditions mix with modern street culture. Clearly, both locals and travelers love it.
Whether you visit alone, with family, or with friends, the night market is a great escape from your busy week. Moreover, you’ll experience real local culture, try delicious street food, and feel refreshed before the new week starts.
The Pedestrian Zone and Hanoi Night Market – A Magnet for Locals and Tourists
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, the pedestrian streets and Hanoi night market wake up with energy. When the sun goes down, thousands of people arrive. Among the crowd, you’ll see Hanoi families, backpackers from other countries, and everyone in between. Meanwhile, the streets that usually have motorbikes now fill with laughter, music, and the smell of grilled food.
Furthermore, this is one of the best places to visit in Hanoi Old Quarter because everyone is welcome. Notably, the mood feels fun and friendly. As a result, it’s a weekly event that brings the whole city together.
1. Where is Hanoi Night Market and When is it Open?
1.1. Location and Operating Hours
Locals call it Dong Xuan Night Market. Since 2003, it’s been a weekend favorite. In fact, for over 20 years, this busy market has been the heart of Old Quarter nightlife.
Key Details:
- Operating hours: Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Length: 3 kilometers through historic streets
- Route: Hang Dao → Hang Ngang → Hang Duong → Hang Khoai → Dong Xuan Market gate
- Number of stalls: Approximately 4,000
- Location: Near Hoan Kiem Lake in the Old Quarter center
Due to its location near Hoan Kiem Lake, you’ll probably find it even if you’re just walking around. Additionally, you’ll find handmade souvenirs, trendy clothes, sizzling street food, and traditional crafts. As a result, there’s something for everyone and every budget.
Most importantly, what makes this market special is the prices. Unlike expensive shopping areas, things here are cheap. Consequently, this makes shopping in Hanoi fun instead of stressful.
1.2. How to Get to Hanoi Night Market
Fortunately, you have several ways to get there:
- Motorbike taxi (xe ôm): Quick and cheap ride straight to the market entrance
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab offers comfortable, air-conditioned rides
- Personal vehicle: Park near pedestrian streets or Dong Xuan Market (10,000-20,000 VND)
- Public buses: Routes 09, 36, 14, or 01 → walk via Triệu Quốc Đạt → Triệu Doãn → St. Joseph’s Cathedral
Insider tip: Come around 6:00-6:30 PM before the 7:00 PM rush. You’ll find easier parking and first pick of the best street food.
2. What Makes Hanoi Night Market Attractive?
2.1. A Bustling Market Selling Countless Types of Goods
Walk into the Dong Xuan night market and you’ll see why shopping in Hanoi is so popular. Overall, with 4,000 stalls, you can find almost anything.
Fashion and Clothing:
- Casual streetwear and trendy clothes
- Traditional Vietnamese ao dai (miniature souvenir versions)
- Sweaters and jeans: 90,000-150,000 VND ($4-7)
Souvenirs and Handicrafts:
- Keychains with Hanoi landmarks: from 15,000 VND
- Embroidered bags and silk scarves: 20,000-200,000 VND
- Lacquerware boxes and handmade crafts
- Perfect for authentic Vietnamese artisan work
Interestingly, the best part about shopping here is talking with the vendors. In fact, vendors are usually happy to chat about their products and show you how traditional crafts are made. Moreover, don’t be shy about bargaining—it’s expected and can drop prices by 20-30%.
2.2. A Food Paradise Satisfying Every Culinary Enthusiast
If the shopping doesn’t grab you, the food definitely will. Indeed, the Hanoi night market is basically one giant street food festival. Here’s what you can find and what it costs:
Traditional Vietnamese Favorites:
- Grilled meat skewers (thịt xiên nướng): 20,000 VND
- Sweet soup dumplings (bánh trôi): 10,000-20,000 VND
- Hot tofu pudding (tào phớ): 10,000-20,000 VND
International Street Food:
- Korean kimbap and tteokbokki: 30,000 VND
- Thai rolled ice cream: from 30,000 VND
- Tornado potatoes: 20,000 VND
Must-Try Snacks:
- Handmade pulled candy (kẹo kéo): 10,000 VND
- Bear-shaped pastries: 60,000 VND per bag
- Grilled sausages: 15,000 VND
Local Favorite: Huyen Anh Cartilage Porridge
Among all the food stalls, one local favorite stands out. Specifically, it’s called Cháo Sườn Sụn Huyền Anh, located in an alley near Dong Xuan Market. Notably, this family-run porridge stall is famous among Hanoi’s late-night food lovers.
So what makes their cartilage and rib porridge (cháo sườn sụn) special? Simply put, they pay attention to every detail. The porridge is cooked perfectly—not too thick, not too watery. Additionally, it has tender pork ribs and crunchy cartilage pieces that add great texture.
In particular, Mrs. Ngân and her family do everything themselves. For instance, they stir the porridge, add seasoning carefully, marinate the ribs overnight, and cut fresh youtiao (fried dough sticks) to keep them crispy. As a result, every bowl tastes consistently good and authentic.
Beyond the Night Market: Ta Hien Street
Just 270 meters from the night market is Ta Hien Street. Locals call it “the street that never sleeps.” As evening gets deeper, this narrow street becomes Hanoi’s liveliest social spot where Vietnamese young people sit next to international travelers, all sharing plastic stools and ice-cold bia hơi (draft beer, about 5,000 VND per glass).
Food lover’s tip: Afterward, walk north from Ta Hien to Hang Buom Street for late-night Vietnamese classics like crispy banana fritters, grilled snails, and youtiao. Moreover, most stalls stay open until midnight or later.
Read more: Hanoi Food Tour around the Old Quarter
2.3. Outstanding Folk Culture and Art Performances
Shopping and eating are great. However, the Hanoi night market offers something deeper: a connection to Vietnamese cultural heritage.
What to Experience:
- Saturday evening performances: Free traditional shows by the Vietnam Musicians’ Association
- Traditional arts: Chầu văn (spiritual singing), hát chèo (folk opera), ca trù (UNESCO-recognized ceremonial music)
- Street musicians: Young amateur bands along Hang Chieu Street playing Vietnamese pop and Western covers
- Lake activities: Street games, breakdancing, and art exhibitions around Hoan Kiem Lake
Interestingly, Hang Chieu Street (400 meters from the night market) becomes almost magical after dark with strings of lights creating a warm glow. Furthermore, the crowds thin out a bit compared to the main market streets. Therefore, it’s the perfect place to rest your feet and enjoy a bubble tea.
3. Interesting Tourist Attractions Near Hanoi Night Market
After hours at the night market, you might want something different. Fortunately, the Old Quarter has many cultural and historical sites within walking distance.
3.1. Historical Landmarks
Hanoi Flag Tower: This 33-meter structure was built in 1812 with panoramic city views. Definitely worth a visit for history buffs.
Thang Long Imperial Citadel: As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it shows 1,000+ years of Vietnamese civilization. Therefore, it’s essential for understanding Hanoi’s past.
Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: This is the final resting place of Vietnam’s beloved leader. Note that it’s closed evenings, so visit during the day.
3.2. Cultural Streets and Religious Sites
Hang Ma Street: This street explodes with red lanterns and decorations before holidays like Tet. Consequently, it’s especially vibrant during festival seasons.
Hoan Kiem Lake: Undoubtedly, this is the spiritual heart of Hanoi with Ngoc Son Temple accessible via the red Huc Bridge. Perfect for peaceful evening walks.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral: Built in 1886, this neo-Gothic cathedral offers evening masses welcoming visitors. Alternatively, simply admire its stunning architecture.
For example, you might spend Saturday afternoon exploring temples and museums, then head to the market as evening falls. As a result, it creates a full day enjoying Hanoi’s past and present.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the night market Hanoi Old Quarter experience is more than just shopping and eating. Instead, it’s a window into how Hanoi balances modernization with tradition, commerce with community, and tourism with authentic local life.
When you bargain over a souvenir price, you’re participating in a tradition unchanged for generations. Similarly, when you sit on a plastic stool eating porridge, you’re joining Hanoi’s late-night food culture. Furthermore, when you pause to watch a traditional music performance, you’re witnessing culture being passed from older to younger generations.
Practical Tips for Your Visit
- First, arrive before 7:00 PM to avoid crowds
- Next, wear comfortable walking shoes
- Also, bring cash in small bills
- Then, follow your nose to the best food
- Finally, explore smaller side streets where locals shop
Overall, shopping in Hanoi reaches its most vibrant and memorable form at this weekend event. Among all the places to visit in Hanoi Old Quarter, few capture the city’s spirit like the Dong Xuan night market. Indeed, every weekend, thousands gather to shop, eat, connect, and celebrate community life under the open sky.
Read more: Hanoi Hotel in Vietnam: 2026 Expert Guide to Perfect Stay
