Dong Xuan Market is one of Hanoi’s busiest and most storied marketplaces — a lively maze of food, fabrics, and daily life. Here’s our complete guide from AsiaPlus Tours to help you explore it like a local.
Why Visit Dong Xuan Market?
Located in the heart of the Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market blends history with everyday commerce. It’s a place where locals shop, street-food vendors thrive, and visitors discover authentic Hanoi culture. From bargain finds to iconic dishes, the market offers a real immersion into local living.
Location & Market Layout
Dong Xuan Market is located at 15 Cau Dong Street, Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, just a quick 10-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, making it very convenient to reach by foot, taxi, Grab, or public bus — simply search “Dong Xuan Market” on Google Maps for easy navigation. The market opens daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, while the surrounding weekend night market comes alive from 7:30 PM to 11:00 PM, offering lively street food and entertainment. Mornings are ideal for a calmer shopping experience and the freshest ingredients, late afternoons bring cooler temperatures and bustling energy, and weekends are perfect for souvenirs and performances. The multi-level layout is packed with diverse local goods: the ground floor features fresh produce, seafood, spices, and household essentials; the first floor is a hub of fabrics, garments, and tailoring services; the second floor offers souvenirs, toys, and casual fashion; and the back alleys hold hidden gems like coffee beans, dried fruits, teas, and packaged snacks. Local experts recommend starting from the upper floors and working your way down — the flow feels much smoother as you navigate through the crowds.
Local Shopping Guide: Best Things To Buy
Dong Xuan Market is more than just a shopping spot — it’s a treasure hunt through Hanoi’s craftsmanship and flavors. Here’s what our local experts always recommend exploring when you visit:
Silk & Traditional Textiles
Vietnamese silk has a legacy rooted in royal history. At Dong Xuan Market, you’ll find vibrant silk fabrics, brocades from ethnic groups, and soft linens ideal for warm weather. If you’re staying near the Old Quarter, many tailors can turn your chosen fabric into a custom áo dài or suit within 24–48 hours — a meaningful, wearable souvenir.
Tip: Feel the fabric carefully and compare prices across shops before deciding.
Dried Snacks & Local Specialties
One of the best things to bring home from Hanoi is food. Market aisles are filled with fragrant dried goods:
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Lotus seeds from the iconic West Lake
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“Ô mai” — sweet and sour dried apricots and plums
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Candied ginger & coconut — perfect for gifting
These snacks don’t take much luggage space and are well-loved by travelers and locals alike.
Vietnamese Coffee & Tea
Coffee culture is the heartbeat of Hanoi. Dong Xuan Market is known for:
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Robusta beans — bold flavor, chocolatey notes
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Weasel-style coffees — special processing for rich aroma
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Lotus tea — delicate floral scent from West Lake lotus flowers
Look for whole beans or sealed packages — the fresher, the better.
Handicrafts & Traditional Souvenirs
Craft stalls showcase the creativity of artisans from across Vietnam:
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Lacquerware — sleek bowls, trays, and art pieces
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Wooden carvings — spiritual figures and home décor
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Conical hats (nón lá) — lightweight and symbolic of Vietnamese identity
These make thoughtful gifts that carry cultural stories home with you.
Affordable Clothing & Bags
From casual wear to bags and belts, prices are usually low — especially if you buy in multiples. But be mindful:
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Check zippers, stitching, and fabric durability
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Confirm sizing — Vietnam sizing runs smaller than Western standards
Best Food to Try Around the Market
Hanoi food doesn’t follow trends — it sets them. Dong Xuan Market and its surrounding streets are legendary for authentic bites. Here’s where to start:
Cháo sườn Huyền Anh (Pork rib porridge)
- Address: 14 Dong Xuan St
A comforting pork rib porridge served silky smooth. Locals love it for breakfast or late-night cravings. Add crispy quẩy (fried dough) on top for texture.
Look for busy, steaming pots — freshness guaranteed.
Bún chả que tre (Grilled pork with noodles on bamboo skewers)
- Address: Dong Xuan Market alley
The dish that won Anthony Bourdain’s heart. Charcoal-grilled pork dipped in sweet-sour broth, served with rice noodles and fresh herbs. Smoky, tangy, irresistible.
Our favorite stalls are hidden just behind the market’s east gate.
Bánh tôm Cô Ầm (Shrimp cakes)
- Address: 84 Hang Chieu
Crispy shrimp fritters made with sweet potato batter — hot, crunchy, and perfect with cold beer. A historic Hanoi street snack that balances salty and sweet beautifully.
Chè Yến (Vietnamese dessert)
Address: Dong Xuan alley
A colorful world of sweet soups and jellies, with versions made from:
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Coconut milk
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Black beans
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Grass jelly
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Seasonal fruits
Refreshing and fun to try on warm evenings — choose the stall with the longest local queue.
Local Foodie Insight
Most of the best stalls sit outside the main market building — in tiny alleys where locals gather shoulder-to-shoulder. It may feel chaotic, but that’s part of Hanoi’s magic. If you’re new to street food, our guides can show you safe stalls, help with ingredients, and introduce the stories behind each dish.
Local Expert Tips for First-Time Visitors
To make the most of your Dong Xuan Market experience, choose comfortable walking shoes because the market’s narrow aisles and stairs can get slippery, especially when it rains. Bring small cash notes since most vendors only accept cash, and visit either in the early morning for a calmer atmosphere or later in the evening to enjoy vibrant street food energy. Keep your belongings secure in a front-facing bag — it’s a busy market and staying mindful ensures a stress-free visit. Always ask before taking photos of people or goods; a friendly smile builds great connections. When shopping, bargain politely and check product quality carefully, from clothing stitching to expiry dates on snacks. For food, follow the locals — busy stalls mean fresh and delicious dishes. If it’s your first time, consider exploring with a local guide who can help you uncover hidden gems, communicate with vendors, and avoid tourist traps. A little respect and curiosity go a long way, turning your trip into a true cultural exchange.
Nearby Attractions to Combine With Your Visit
Dong Xuan Market sits in the northern heart of Hanoi Old Quarter, making it an excellent starting point for a half-day cultural walking experience. Within just a few minutes on foot, you can explore some of Hanoi’s most meaningful landmarks — from historic bridges to spiritual temples.
Long Bien Bridge — Historic Beauty & Sunset Views
Walking distance: ~8 minutes from Dong Xuan Market
Built in 1902 by architects from the Eiffel company, Long Bien Bridge is a living witness of Hanoi’s past — from the French colonial era to the Vietnam War.
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Best time to go: sunset or early morning
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What to expect: river breeze, trains passing slowly, panoramic views of the Red River & banana plantations
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Insider tip: Visit the small staircase entrances used by locals — safer and more authentic than the busy main road
If you enjoy photography or simply want a peaceful break from the markets, this bridge is a perfect contrast to the busy Old Quarter streets.
Hoan Kiem Lake — The Cultural Heart of Hanoi
Walking distance: ~15 minutes south
A calm escape where local life unfolds every day — morning exercise groups, elderly dancing, young couples taking photos. At the center sits Turtle Tower, and nearby you’ll find Ngoc Son Temple (Temple of Jade Mountain).
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Best time: early morning to see locals practicing tai chi
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Don’t miss: a stroll along the lake’s tree-lined pathways
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Ideal pairing: Finish your Dong Xuan Market visit with a relaxing lakeside coffee
This is one of the most atmospheric places to feel Hanoi’s rhythm.
Bach Ma Temple — Ancient Spiritual Landmark
Walking distance: ~5 minutes
Tucked between narrow Old Quarter streets, Bach Ma Temple (White Horse Temple) dates back to the 9th century, making it one of Hanoi’s oldest temples.
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What you’ll see: traditional red-lacquer interior, guardian statues, architecture from various dynasties
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Insider note: weekends often feature cultural performances nearby
It’s a meaningful stop to understand the spiritual heritage that shapes everyday life in Vietnam.
Hang Dao Street — Bustling Shopping Street
Walking distance: ~10 minutes south
If Dong Xuan Market feels like wholesale chaos, Hang Dao brings you into the core retail shopping scene of the Old Quarter.
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Best for: affordable clothing, hats, accessories, souvenirs
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Night vibe: The weekend walking street turns vibrant with food stalls and performances
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Haggling recommended — especially for bulk buys
Local experts often suggest pairing a Dong Xuan Market bargain hunt with a walk down Hang Dao for a more curated shopping experience.
Explore Dong Xuan Market With Local Experts
Want deeper stories, hidden food spots, and worry-free navigation at Dong Xuan Market?
Our Hanoi Food & Market Walk takes you behind the scenes — local tastings, culture talks, and insider shortcuts included.
Plan your visit here — AsiaPlus Tours will take care of the rest!
