If you are looking for a unique and memorable shopping experience in Vietnam, you should not miss visiting some of the famous markets in the country. These markets offer a variety of products, from local handicrafts and souvenirs to fresh seafood and street food. Vietnamtour.in has listed the best markets in Vietnam that Indian tourists should visit.
Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is one of the oldest and largest markets in Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. Dong Xuan Market sells a variety of goods, such as fresh products, souvenirs, clothing, electronics, and household appliances.
You can also find traditional handicrafts, such as Dong Ho paintings, Bat Trang ceramics, and Binh Da embroideries, at some local shops around the market. If you are hungry, you can try some delicious street food with affordable prices at the food stalls inside or outside the market, such as pho (noodle soup), bun cha (grilled pork with rice noodles), banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), and che (sweet soup).
- Location: It is located in the heart of the Old Quarter, about 2 km from Hoan Kiem Lake
- Opening hours: The market is open from 06:00 AM to 07:00 PM every day, but it is most crowded on weekends and holidays
Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City, the largest and most dynamic city in Vietnam. Ben Thanh Market offers a wide range of products, such as souvenirs, clothing, accessories, jewellery, cosmetics, and fabrics. You can also find many local specialities, such as coffee, tea, spices, dried fruits, and nuts. Ben Thanh Market is a great place to bargain for the best prices and to enjoy the lively atmosphere of Saigon.
- Location: It is located in District 1 on Phan Boi Chau Street and Phan Chu Trinh Street, near many famous attractions, such as the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Reunification Palace, and the Saigon Opera House
- Opening hours: The market is open from 06:00 AM to 06:00 PM every day, but it also has a night market from 06:00 PM to 10:00 PM
>> Read more: Top Things to Buy in Vietnam – Shopping in Vietnam in 2024
Bac Ha Market
Nestled near the mountainous highlands and close to the China-Vietnam border, Bac Ha Market is an ideal place to explore the characteristics of the Northwestern highland ethnic group.
Bac Ha Market is famous for being the largest and most colourful market in Southeast Asia. It attracts many ethnic minority groups, such as the Mong, the Dao, the Tay, and the Nung, who come to trade their products and socialize with each other. Bac Ha Market sells a variety of goods, such as livestock, poultry, vegetables, fruits, handicrafts, clothes, and jewellery. You can also find some exotic items, such as horse saddles, opium pipes, and medicinal herbs.
- Location: It is located in Bac Ha town, about 70 km from Lao Cai city
- Opening hours: Every Sunday from 06:00 AM to 02:00 PM
Hoi An Night Market
One of the most popular markets in Vietnam is the Hoi An Night Market. This market attracts hundreds of visitors who come to enjoy the festive atmosphere, the colourful lanterns and the variety of goods on offer. Indian visitors can wander through the narrow streets adorned with colourful lights, exploring a wide array of stalls offering traditional Vietnamese crafts, jewellery, clothing, ceramics, paintings and accessories at this market.
You can also try some of the local specialities, such as banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), cao lau (noodle dish), banh xeo (crispy pancake) and che (sweet soup). The Hoi An Night Market is also a great place to witness the cultural activities of the town, such as folk music, traditional games and lantern festivals.
- Location: On Nguyen Hoang Street in the ancient town of Hoi An
- Opening hours: Open every night from 05:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Dam Market
If you are in Nha Trang, you should not miss the Dam Market, which is the largest and most famous market in the city. The market has a distinctive architecture, with a lotus-shaped dome and four entrances. Inside, you can find hundreds of stalls selling fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, meat, spices, dried goods, snacks and souvenirs. You can also find some ethnic products from the Cham and Raglai people, such as brocade fabrics, pottery and musical instruments. The Dam Market is a lively and bustling place where you can experience the authentic local culture and cuisine.
- Location: The market is located on Ben Cho Street, about 2 km from the city centre
- Opening hours: open every day from 04:00 AM to 06:00 PM
Cai Rang Floating Market
Often considered the largest floating market in the Mekong Delta, Cai Rang offers a captivating glimpse into the local way of life. Indian visitors can navigate the intricate waterways and witness the bustling trade conducted from boats laden with vibrant fruits, vegetables, and local products. The lively interactions between sellers and buyers, the colourful array of goods, and the picturesque Mekong River backdrop create a truly immersive and photogenic experience.
Cai Rang Floating Market not only showcases the vibrancy of Vietnamese commerce but also provides a tranquil and scenic setting that reflects the charm of the Mekong Delta’s riverine culture.
- Location: Cai Rang District, Can Tho City, about 6 km from the city center
- Opening hours: 05:00 AM to 09:00 AM
Duong Dong Night Market
Duong Dong Night Market is a popular attraction on Phu Quoc Island, where you can find a variety of seafood, souvenirs, and street food. The market is divided into two sections: one for seafood and one for handicrafts. You can choose your favourite seafood from the stalls and have it cooked on the spot. You can also browse through the colourful displays of pearls, shells, jewellery, and other items.
- Location: Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc Island, about 2 km from the town centre
- Opening hours: 05:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Tips:
- Here are some tips for visiting these markets:
- Bring cash with you as most vendors do not accept credit cards or other forms of payment.
- Be careful with your belongings as there may be pickpockets or scammers in crowded areas.
- Be polite and friendly with the vendors and locals as they may offer you better deals or more information.
- Have fun and enjoy the shopping experience!
Conclusion
In conclusion, markets in Vietnam offer a diverse range of traditions that cater to the varied interests of Indian tourists. Each market not only showcases local goods but also provides a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry. These markets serve as lively hubs where Indian tourists can engage with the local way of life, savour authentic cuisine, and take home unique souvenirs, contributing to an enriching and memorable travel experience on your trip to Vietnam.
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