The Hanoi night market opening hours are one of the first things travelers search for when exploring the Old Quarter. This lively weekend market transforms the main walking street into a buzzing maze of food, shopping, and performances.
Below is a simple, up-to-date guide to the exact operating hours, what days the market is open, and the best time to visit so you can plan your night in Hanoi smoothly.
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What is the Hanoi weekend night market?
The Hanoi Weekend Night Market is a long pedestrian-only street market held in the Old Quarter every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. It stretches for almost 3 kilometers and brings together shopping, street food, and lively performances, creating one of the most energetic nighttime experiences in the city.
| Where it is located | The market runs along Hàng Đào Street, continues through Hàng Ngang and Hàng Đường, and ends at the main gate of Đồng Xuân Market in Hoàn Kiếm District. |
| How long is the walking street? | The full route is approximately 3 kilometers, making it one of the longest and busiest weekend markets in Hanoi. |
| When the night market becomes car-free | From early evening, the streets are fully closed to traffic, creating a safe and walkable area for visitors. |
With its long walking route, lively crowds, and car-free streets, the Hanoi Weekend Night Market offers a fun and immersive way to discover the heart of the Old Quarter. It’s a must-visit spot if you want to feel the true rhythm of Hanoi at night.
Quick overview of Hanoi night market opening hours
Here is a simple snapshot of the Hanoi night market opening hours so you can plan your visit quickly:
- Days open: Friday, Saturday, Sunday
- Opening time: 6 PM to 7 PM
- Closing time: 11 PM to Midnight
- Peak time: 7 PM to 10 PM
- Location: Hàng Đào Street to Đồng Xuân Market, Old Quarter
These hours stay consistent throughout the year, so you can visit confidently on any weekend. With the basics covered, let’s look at what the Hanoi Weekend Night Market actually is and why it’s one of the most popular spots in the Old Quarter.
What to expect at the night market
The Hanoi Weekend Night Market is more than just a place to shop. It is a lively cultural space where food, music, and local energy come together, creating an experience that feels distinctly Hanoi.
1. Atmosphere and crowds
Expect a vibrant mix of locals, travelers, families, and street vendors filling the walking street. The market is lively, colorful, and often crowded, especially from 7 PM onward. The noise, lights, and movement create a fun and energetic atmosphere that many travelers love.
2. Street performances
Throughout the evening, you will find live music, traditional art shows, and modern dance performances. Some corners feature Vietnamese folk music such as ca trù, while others showcase buskers or dance groups drawing large crowds.
3. Walking street rules
During market hours, the entire stretch becomes a pedestrian-only zone. Motorbikes and cars are blocked off, making it safe to walk freely. Security teams monitor the area, and vendors must keep walkways clear to ensure steady crowd flow.
What to buy at the Hanoi night market
When you walk through the Hanoi Weekend Night Market, you will see a huge mix of souvenirs, clothing, and handmade crafts. Every corner offers something different, so you can enjoy browsing and discovering affordable items that fit your style or interests.
1. Souvenirs
You will find plenty of fun and affordable souvenirs such as lacquerware, fridge magnets, bamboo dragonflies, conical hats, chopsticks, and small ceramic trinkets. These items make great gifts and help you bring a little piece of Hanoi home.
2. Clothing and accessories
You will see a wide selection of casual clothing, shoes, hats, tote bags, and jewelry displayed along the street. Because vendors expect you to bargain, you can negotiate and get better deals while picking out items you like.
3. Local handicrafts
You will come across handmade goods created by local artisans, including silk scarves, woven bags, wooden carvings, paper lanterns, and embroidered textiles. These products usually offer better craftsmanship and cultural value.
4. What NOT to buy (electronics, branded items)
You should avoid buying electronics, headphones, power banks, or anything claiming to be a designer or branded item. These products are often low quality or counterfeit, and you will not receive any warranty or customer support.
Best street food to try in Hanoi night market
When you visit the Hanoi Weekend Night Market, you will find countless food stalls that serve everything from traditional Vietnamese dishes to quick snacks and sweet treats. You can try a mix of flavors as you walk through the market, and most items are affordable and freshly made.
1. Vietnamese dishes
You will be able to taste popular local dishes such as phở, bún chả, bánh mì, chả cá, and gỏi cuốn. These dishes give you a delicious introduction to Hanoi’s street food culture.
2. Snacks and sweets
You can try a variety of street snacks like grilled pork skewers, sticky rice, dried beef salad, hot chestnuts, and different types of chè. These snacks are perfect if you want something quick and tasty while exploring the market.
3. International food options
You will also find several international options, including Korean dishes like kimbap and tteokbokki. These are great choices if you feel like mixing local flavors with something familiar.
4. Average prices
You can expect most street food dishes to cost between 20,000 and 50,000 VND, depending on the item. This makes the market a great place to enjoy affordable and flavorful food without overspending.
Visitor tips for enjoying the night market
A visit to the Hanoi Weekend Night Market becomes much easier when you know a few local tips. With the right timing, payment methods, and safety habits, you can enjoy the experience without stress.
1. Best time to avoid heavy crowds
If you prefer a quieter walk, try arriving right at opening time around 6 PM. Vendors are already open, the street is calmer, and you can take photos or browse without bumping into large groups. After 8 PM, the market becomes packed, especially on Saturdays.
2. Bargaining tips
Bargaining works best when you stay friendly and patient. Instead of rushing, take a moment to compare prices from different stalls, then offer a reasonable amount. Vendors are more open to negotiating when you smile, show interest, and avoid lowballing too aggressively.
3. Cash vs card
Because most stalls rely on cash, carrying small bills is extremely helpful. Breaking your money into 10,000 to 50,000 VND notes lets you pay quickly and avoids awkward situations where the vendor doesn’t have enough change.
4. Safety and pickpocket precautions
Crowded areas can make it easier for someone to brush against you, so keep valuables in a zipped bag and avoid placing your phone or wallet in a back pocket. Staying alert while taking photos also helps, as this is when many travelers become distracted.
5. What to wear and bring
The market involves a long walk, so comfortable shoes will make a big difference. Nights can feel warm and humid, so water, tissues, and a small fan help you stay comfortable. If you plan to eat street food, bringing hand sanitizer is also useful.
The market starts to slow down after 10 PM, so this is a good time to finish shopping or make your way toward nearby areas like Tạ Hiện or Hoàn Kiếm Lake for a more relaxed drink or stroll.
Nearby attractions to combine with your visit
The Hanoi Weekend Night Market sits right in the center of the Old Quarter, so you can easily combine your visit with other famous spots nearby. Exploring these places before or after the market will help you enjoy a full, well-rounded evening in Hanoi.
1. Hoàn Kiếm Lake walking street
Just a few minutes away, Hoàn Kiếm Lake turns into a lively pedestrian zone on weekends. You can watch local performances, join community games, or enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake’s glowing night scenery.
2. Tạ Hiện beer street
If you want to continue the night with drinks and a fun atmosphere, Tạ Hiện Beer Street is close by. You can sit on small stools, order a cold beer, and enjoy the lively mix of locals and backpackers.
3. Dong Xuan market
Located at the end of the night market route, Đồng Xuân Market is one of Hanoi’s largest indoor markets. You can explore fabrics, souvenirs, and wholesale goods during the day or simply take photos at its iconic front gate at night.
4. St. Joseph’s Cathedral
A short walk from the Old Quarter, St. Joseph’s Cathedral offers beautiful Gothic architecture and a peaceful square. The area is filled with cafés, making it a great place to rest before diving into the night market crowds.
FAQs about Hanoi night market opening hours
What time does the Hanoi night market start?
The night market usually becomes active between 6 PM and 7 PM. Some vendors set up earlier, but most stalls only start selling once the walking street officially closes to traffic. If you arrive before 6 PM, you might still see cars and motorbikes passing through.
What time does the Hanoi night market close?
Most stalls close between 11 PM and Midnight. The closing time depends on the day and the weather. Fridays are generally quieter and close earlier, while Saturdays often run later because the crowd stays until midnight.
Is the Hanoi night market open every day?
No, the market is only open Friday to Sunday. Weekdays do not have night market activities, even on holidays. If you visit on a weekday, you’ll still find shops open along Hàng Đào, but the street will not be blocked off for the market.
When is the busiest time at the night market?
The busiest period is 7 PM to 10 PM, when locals and travelers pour into the walking street. This is when food stalls are busiest, street performers come out, and the entire market feels most alive. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, arrive before 7 PM.
Is it safe to walk around the Hanoi night market at night?
Yes, the market is generally safe. There is a visible security presence, and the walking street is well-lit. However, the dense crowds mean you should keep your phone, cash, and bag securely zipped. Theft is rare but possible during busy hours.
Final tips before you go
The Hanoi Weekend Night Market is one of the most exciting places to explore in the Old Quarter, and knowing the opening hours helps you plan a smooth visit. If you arrive early, bring cash, and take your time walking through the stalls, you will enjoy the market’s full atmosphere without feeling rushed.
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