Dong Xuan Market
The Old Quarter's permanent indoor market, a different experience entirely.
Read the guideThings to Do
Old Quarter Night Market
Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday evening, the streets north of Hoan Kiem Lake close to traffic and fill with stalls, street performers, and crowds — Hanoi's weekend night market is as much an atmosphere as a shopping trip.
Fri–Sunevenings only
~3 kmof pedestrianised streets
Freeto walk through
What it actually is
The night market runs along Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, Hang Duong and surrounding streets in the Old Quarter, roughly from early evening until around 11pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Vendors set up stalls selling clothing, accessories, souvenirs, toys and snacks along streets that are closed to motorbike and car traffic for the occasion — a rare chance to walk in the middle of Old Quarter streets without dodging traffic.
What's sold
Mostly inexpensive clothing, shoes, accessories and souvenirs aimed at a broad market rather than curated craft goods — treat it as a browsing and people-watching experience more than a serious shopping trip for quality items. Street food stalls and drink vendors line the edges, and it's a good spot for an evening snack while wandering.
How it differs from Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market (see our dedicated guide) is a permanent indoor wholesale and retail market, open most days, aimed more at bulk and local shopping. The weekend night market is outdoor, temporary, and much more geared toward a casual browsing experience with a festive atmosphere — buskers, occasional performances, and a genuinely lively crowd.
Practical tips
- Bargaining is normal here, as at most markets — see our shopping and souvenirs guide for how to do it without being pushy.
- It gets genuinely crowded, especially on Saturday nights — keep bags zipped and worn to the front in the densest stretches.
- Combine it naturally with Day 1 of a typical itinerary, since it overlaps with the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake evening activities.