Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest wholesale market located in the Old Quarter, 800 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake. Open daily 6AM-6PM (weekends until 10:30PM), this 3-story market sells clothing, fabrics, electronics, and souvenirs at wholesale and retail prices. The nearby food alleys offer Vietnamese street food for $1-2 per dish. Bargaining is expected—negotiate 30-60% below the initial asking price and watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.
Note: This guide compiles insights from travel experts and visitor experiences to help you navigate Dong Xuan Market effectively.
Where Is Dong Xuan Market? How To Get There
Address: Dong Xuan Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Location Details:
- West: Dong Xuan Street
- East: Dong Xuan Market Lane
- North: Hang Khoai Street
- South: Cau Dong Street
- Distance from Hoan Kiem Lake: 800 meters (10-minute walk)
- Near Long Bien Railway Station and Hang Ma Street
From Hoan Kiem Lake: Walk north along Hang Dao Street → Continue straight through Hang Ngang and Hang Duong streets → Turn right at Cau Dong intersection → Arrive at market entrance (approximately 10-15 minutes on foot).
Transportation Options:
Walking: Best option if staying in the Old Quarter. Enjoy exploring the narrow streets and traditional architecture along the way.
Bus: Routes 1, 3, 4, 11, 14, 18, 22, 23, 31, 34, and 40 all stop near the market. Fare: approximately $0.30 USD per person.
Taxi/Grab: Most convenient option. Expect to pay $2.50-$4 USD from Hanoi city center. Use Grab app for transparent pricing.
Motorbike: Parking available next to the market for approximately 10,000 VND ($0.40 USD).
Dong Xuan Market Opening Hours
Weekday Hours (Monday-Thursday):
- Market: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Busiest: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Weekend Hours (Friday-Sunday):
- Market: 6:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Night Market: 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM (pedestrian zone)
Food Alleys:
- Open until dawn daily (most active 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM)
Important Note: Many vendors begin closing and packing up around 4:00-5:00 PM, so visit earlier for the full selection.
What Does Dong Xuan Market Sell? Floor-by-Floor Guide
Dong Xuan Market spans 14,000 square meters across 3 floors with approximately 2,000 stalls. Here’s what you’ll find on each level.
Ground Floor: Fashion & Electronics
Main Products:
- Clothing for men and women
- Shoes, sandals, slippers
- Sunglasses and accessories
- Bags, backpacks, luggage
- Electronics: phone chargers, power banks, earphones, speakers, flashlights
Price Range (Retail):
- T-shirts: $2-6 USD
- Jeans: $6-14 USD
- Sneakers: $8-20 USD
- Sunglasses: $1.20-4 USD
- Phone accessories: $0.80-2 USD
Note: Most products are imported from China. Inspect quality carefully before purchasing.
Second Floor: Fabrics & Adult Clothing
Main Products:
- Fabrics of all types: cotton, silk, brocade, linen
- Wholesale clothing for adults
- Bedding fabrics
- Embroidered and traditional woven fabrics
Price Range:
- Cotton fabric: $1.20-3.20 USD per meter
- Silk fabric: $3.20-8 USD per meter
- Brocade fabric: $4-12 USD per meter
Wholesale Pricing: Purchase 10+ meters for 20-30% discount.
Third Floor: Children’s Items
Main Products:
- Newborn and children’s clothing
- Children’s shoes
- Toys
- Baby bottles, diapers, childcare products
Price Range:
- Baby clothing sets: $2-6 USD
- Children’s shoes: $3.20-8 USD
- Toys: $0.80-4 USD
Bac Qua Market (Behind Dong Xuan)
Products:
- Fresh meat, fish, vegetables
- Pet birds and fish
- Fresh flowers
- Dried goods: nuts, spices, dried fruits
What To Eat At Dong Xuan Market? Top Dishes To Try
The Dong Xuan Market food alleys are known as a “street food paradise” offering authentic Hanoi cuisine at budget prices. Here are must-try dishes based on visitor recommendations.
1. Pho Cuon (Fresh Spring Rolls)
Price: $1.20-1.60 USD per portion
Description: Soft rice paper rolls filled with stir-fried beef, fresh herbs, and vegetables, served with sweet and sour dipping sauce.
Location: Multiple vendors along Dong Xuan Lane
2. Banh Tom (Shrimp Cakes)
Price: $1.40 USD per plate
Description: Crispy fried cakes with fresh shrimp, served with vegetables and fish sauce.
Location: Vendors near market entrance
3. Bun Oc (Snail Noodle Soup)
Price: $1-1.40 USD per bowl
Description: Rice noodles with boiled snails, tomatoes, and fried tofu in a tangy broth with fresh herbs.
4. Chao Suon (Pork Rib Porridge)
Price: $1-1.20 USD per bowl
Description: Slow-cooked rice porridge with tender pork ribs, topped with fried shallots.
Hours: Available 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
5. Xoi Com Dua (Sticky Rice with Young Rice & Coconut)
Price: $0.40 USD per portion
Description: Fragrant sticky rice with green young rice and shredded coconut.
Location: In front of market entrance
6. Che (Sweet Dessert Soup)
Price: $0.60-0.80 USD per cup
Description: Mixed sweet soup with various beans, jellies, and fruits.
7. Pho Tiu
Price: $1.40 USD per bowl
Description: Unique Hanoi-style noodle soup with light broth and tender char siu pork.
Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Note: Hidden in a small alley, slightly difficult to find
Shopping Tips For Dong Xuan Market
Based on shared experiences from frequent shoppers and tourists:
Effective Bargaining Techniques
Step 1: Check prices at 2-3 different stalls to learn the average market price.
Step 2: Start your offer at 50-60% of the vendor’s initial price.
Step 3: Gradually increase your offer but don’t exceed 70% of the original asking price.
Step 4: If the seller disagrees, appear ready to walk away—they’ll often call you back.
Useful Vietnamese Phrases:
- “Bao nhiêu?” (How much?) – pronounced: “bow nyew”
- “Đắt quá!” (Too expensive!) – pronounced: “daht qwah”
- “Oi gioi oi!” (Oh my!) – pronounced: “oy zoy oy”
- “Giảm được không?” (Can you reduce the price?) – pronounced: “zahm dook cohm”
Understanding Wholesale vs. Retail
Wholesale:
- Vendors typically ask “How many?” before quoting prices
- Purchase 6-12+ items for wholesale pricing
- Prices 30-50% cheaper than retail
Retail:
- Some stalls near the entrance serve tourists
- Prices higher and less negotiable
- If buying only 1-2 items, shop at retail stalls outside the market
Avoiding Scams & Pickpockets
Safety Measures:
- Keep bags and backpacks in front
- Don’t carry large amounts of cash
- Store phone in zipped pockets
- Travel in groups when possible
Warning Signs:
- Strangers bumping too close
- Groups blocking your path
- Someone spilling something on you (distraction technique)
Best Times To Visit
Early Morning (6:00-8:00 AM):
- Freshest products
- Less crowded
- Best for buying fresh food
Midday (10:00 AM-3:00 PM):
- Most crowded
- Difficult to bargain
- Most selection available
Late Afternoon (4:00-6:00 PM):
- Some stalls closing
- Better bargaining opportunities (vendors want to sell remaining stock)
Dong Xuan Night Market – Weekend Experience
Schedule: Friday-Sunday, 6:00 PM – 10:30 PM
Location: Stretches from Hoan Kiem Lake through Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, and Hang Duong streets to Dong Xuan Market (approximately 3km).
Differences From Day Market:
Products:
- More souvenirs and tourist gifts
- Fashion accessories at fixed prices
- Handmade and craft items
- Less bargaining required
Food:
- More street food vendors
- Prices: $0.60-1.60 USD per item
- Grilled skewers, milk tea, rolled ice cream
Cultural Activities:
- Xa dam folk singing on Saturday evenings
- Ca tru and Cheo performances (occasional)
- Lively, crowded atmosphere
Important Notes:
- Pedestrian zone only (no motorbikes allowed)
- Motorbike parking nearby: $0.40-0.80 USD
- No alcohol drinking on the street (fines apply)
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Dong Xuan Market sell authentic branded goods?
No. Most products at Dong Xuan Market are affordable items from China or Vietnam. Some stalls sell bags and shoes “inspired by” famous brands, but these are not authentic items.
2. Is it worth shopping at Dong Xuan Market for retail purchases?
If buying only 1-2 items, prices may not be significantly cheaper than regular retail stores. However, with good bargaining skills and price comparison, you can still find good deals.
3. Is Dong Xuan Market safe?
The market is relatively safe but pickpocketing is common due to crowds. Keep valuables secure and don’t carry excessive cash.
4. Where should I park when visiting?
Official parking is located next to the market for approximately 10,000 VND ($0.40 USD) per motorbike. Avoid unofficial parking areas.
5. Can I pay by card or bank transfer?
Most stalls accept cash only. A few larger vendors may accept bank transfers. Bring Vietnamese Dong for convenience.
6. Are there other tourist attractions near Dong Xuan Market?
From Dong Xuan Market, you can walk to:
- Hoan Kiem Lake (800m, 10 minutes)
- Hanoi Old Quarter (within the area)
- Bach Ma Temple (500m)
- Long Bien Bridge (1km)
- Hang Ma Street (300m)
7. Which food dishes at Dong Xuan Market are most popular?
According to visitor reviews, the most loved dishes are pho cuon (fresh spring rolls), banh tom (shrimp cakes), bun oc (snail noodles), and chao suon (pork rib porridge). Prices range from $1-1.60 USD per serving.
8. What should I know about hygiene at the food stalls?
The food stalls are generally clean and food is freshly prepared. However, as with any street food, those with sensitive stomachs should exercise caution. Choose busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest food.
9. Can I find traditional Vietnamese souvenirs at Dong Xuan Market?
Yes. Look for:
- Silk products and fabrics
- Lacquerware items
- Traditional conical hats (non la)
- Hand-embroidered items
- Ceramic products
- Coffee (Vietnamese specialty)
10. How much time should I budget for visiting Dong Xuan Market?
Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough visit: 1-2 hours for browsing the market floors, and 30-60 minutes to enjoy food in the alleys.
Practical Tips Summary
Before You Go:
- Bring small Vietnamese Dong bills for easier transactions
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Bring a small bag with zippers for security
- Check the weather (market can be hot and stuffy)
While Shopping:
- Always bargain politely with a smile
- Inspect items carefully before purchasing
- Keep track of your budget
- Don’t feel pressured to buy
Cultural Etiquette:
- Be respectful when taking photos (ask permission)
- Don’t touch products excessively without buying intent
- Keep negotiations friendly and lighthearted
- Accept refusal gracefully if price negotiations fail