Dong Xuan Market
Hanoi, Vietnam · Shopping
About Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is the largest covered market in Hanoi, originally constructed during the French colonial era in the late nineteenth century. Located in the northern section of the historic Old Quarter, it is renowned for its bustling multi-story hall packed with hundreds of wholesale vendors. Visitors flock here to experience the authentic pulse of local trade and browse an immense selection of goods ranging from textiles to regional foods.
Don't miss
- Sample northern Vietnamese culinary staples and traditional sweet soups at the ground-floor food hall.
- Wander the upper floors to view towering stacks of colorful fabrics, silks, and traditional clothing.
- Browse the ground level stalls selling regional dried ingredients, spices, and candied fruits.
- Explore the lively weekend pedestrian night market that extends out into the streets fronting the building.
Plan your visit
Visit between 8:00 AM and 10:30 AM to see the market at its most active before the midday heat peaks. Weekend evenings are also popular when the bustling outdoor night market sets up directly outside.
Admission to the market is completely free, and no tickets or advance bookings are required. You will only need cash if you plan to shop or purchase snacks.
The market is located at the northern edge of Hanoi's Old Quarter, roughly a 10- to 15-minute walk north from Hoan Kiem Lake. You can also easily arrive by hailing a metered taxi or using a ride-hailing app.
Tips for visiting
- Keep personal belongings secure and zipped up, as the aisles can be tight and crowded with shoppers and porters.
- Carry small denominations of Vietnamese Dong cash, as vendors generally do not accept credit cards.
- Bargain politely if buying individual items, but note that many upper-floor stalls strictly sell in wholesale lots.
- Dress in lightweight, breathable clothing, as the multi-level indoor market can get quite warm and humid.
- Venture into the narrow alleyways beside the main building for some of the city's most authentic street food.
Dong Xuan Market FAQ
Can retail tourists buy items here or is it only wholesale?
Retail tourists can certainly buy individual items, especially souvenirs, dried snacks, and handicrafts on the lower floors. Some upper-floor clothing and fabric vendors prefer selling in bulk, but many will still accommodate single sales if asked politely.
What is the difference between the indoor market and the night market?
The indoor market operates daily during daylight hours and primarily serves as a commercial wholesale hub. The weekend night market takes place outdoors along the adjacent streets on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings, focusing on casual street food and inexpensive gifts.
Are prices fixed or should I negotiate?
Prices are almost never fixed for general tourists at Dong Xuan Market. It is standard practice to negotiate with a friendly smile, often settling around twenty to thirty percent lower than the initial quote.
Do vendors speak English?
English levels among vendors vary, with basic numbers commonly understood by those selling souvenirs. Using a calculator or the calculator app on your phone is the most effective and universal way to negotiate prices.
More things to do in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem Lake & Ngoc Son Temple Landmark
Take a peaceful morning stroll around the lake and cross the iconic red bridge to visit the historic island temple.
Hanoi Old Quarter Neighborhood
Wander through centuries-old merchant streets packed with craft vendors, French-colonial shophouses, and bustling open-air cafes.
Temple of Literature Landmark
Explore Vietnam's first national university, founded in the 11th century, featuring serene courtyards and ancient turtle steles.
Vietnam Museum of Ethnology Museum
Discover traditional tribal houses, artifacts, and customs representing Vietnam's 54 recognized ethnic groups.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre Activity
Enjoy a captivating traditional stage show that brings Vietnamese folk legends to life atop a flooded pool.
Hoa Lo Prison Memorial Museum
Learn about Vietnam's tumultuous colonial and wartime past at this poignant historical site.
Long Bien Bridge Landmark
Walk along this historic century-old cantilever bridge over the Red River for panoramic views and vintage photo opportunities.
AI-written guide, last updated 2026-10-09. Check opening times and ticket prices on the official website before you go. Photos: KientrucVietAS_Com, dangquangn on Pixabay.