Visiting the local markets in Hue, Vietnam, isn’t just about enjoying delicious food or finding interesting items. It’s also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the local people in Hue.
If you are in Hue and look for a place to go shopping for souvenirs that are signature, meaningful, and practical to bring back home, take a look at our list of the 9 top-rated markets in Hue.
1. Ben Ngu Market
Located at the crossroads of Phan Dinh Phung and Phan Boi Chau streets, right by the An Cuu river, Ben Ngu market is one of the renowned markets in Hue. Here, you can find all your daily necessities and food at affordable prices. The market embodies the traditional colors of Hue, reflecting the daily life of its people. Visiting Ben Ngu market allows you to delve into the local culture and savor the specialties of Hue cuisine at incredibly low prices.
2. Phu Hau Market
Phu Hau Market is a wholesale hub where vendors get products to sell, making prices very budget-friendly. You can find everything here, from fresh produce to seafood and other daily essentials.
Originally near Trang Tien Bridge, the market moved to the Phu Hau area. It opens early every morning to supply goods to markets in Hue and the neighboring Quang Tri region.
3. Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is located on the northern shore of the Huong (Perfume) River, right next to Tran Hung Dao Road.
As soon as you enter Dong Ba Market, you’ll notice the impressive antique bell tower within the building. This market covers a vast area of 16,000 square meters and is divided into 9 new facilities with 4 main sections selling everything from seafood to clothing.
Dong Ba Market is the go-to place for finding cultural treasures and souvenirs from Thua Thien Hue. You’ll discover iconic items like the “non la bai tho” (traditional hats with poems woven in), imperial tea, and Hue ao dai (traditional dresses).
Moreover, Dong Ba Market is renowned for its fantastic food stalls, offering the best of Hue’s cuisine. Here, you can indulge in treats like tamarind candies, Truoi fruits, sour shrimps, clam rice, beef noodles, leaf cakes, and other regional specialties all under one roof.
4. An Cuu Market
An Cuu Market is a standout among Hue City’s culinary destinations, especially favored by tourists. Here, you can savor all of Hue’s iconic specialties, from the mouth-watering Grilled Pork Rice Noodles to the delightful Banh Beo and the irresistible Banh Ram It, all at incredibly affordable prices. With its wide array of culinary delights, An Cuu Market is sure to charm any food lover.
In addition to the signature dishes, you’ll also find a variety of comforting and refreshing sweet treats like different kinds of “chè” (sweet soups) and milk tea, making it a delightful stop for those with a sweet tooth.
5. Tay Loc Market
One of Hue’s most intriguing attractions is the unique Tay Loc Market. Unlike other markets that sell new products, this market specializes in pre-owned and vintage items.
As the most renowned flea market in Hue, Tay Loc Market attracts a significant amount of visitors, especially towards the end of the year. Despite not being as large as other markets, it sees a steady stream of visitors daily. “Thrifting” has become not only a popular way to save money but also a lifestyle choice, contributing to the market’s popularity.
6. Xep Thuan Loc Market
Xep Market, Hue’s famous secondhand marketplace, is located between Truong Tien Bridge and Dong Ba Market, just across Mai Thuc Loan Road and to the right on Ngo Duc Ke Road.
The shops here open earlier than other markets, offering a wide variety of items including fabrics, accessories, clothing, footwear, hats, adult underwear, and children’s clothes—basically, everything you can imagine.
Around 8 am, many people start arriving for their weekly shopping. The market gets busier around 10 am and stays lively until well after 11 am.
7. Nguyen Dinh Chieu Night Market
Nguyen Dinh Chieu street is a haven for street food enthusiasts in Hue. Here, you can indulge in a wide array of delectable dishes including noodle soup, local rice cakes, sweet soups, desserts, and the famous local Banh Mi.
Once you’ve satisfied your cravings at this bustling street food market, take a leisurely stroll to browse through souvenir shops and enjoy the scenic views of the Huong River. For a memorable experience, consider taking a boat ride along the river while listening to traditional Hue folk songs. It’s a wonderful way to immerse yourself in the rich culture and beauty of Hue.
8. To Hien Thanh Market
To Hien Thanh Market, also fondly called the Bulb Market by locals, is a cozy marketplace known for its second-hand and budget-friendly clothing. Although it’s open just once a week, it remains a popular spot, attracting many customers.
What makes this market special is its warm and inviting atmosphere, created by the charming decorations of electric bulbs. This unique ambiance adds to the shopping experience, making it a favorite destination for both locals and visitors.
9. Hue Night Market
Heading to the Hue night market is among the best things to do in Hue. Yes, you might have shopped at other Hue markets or groceries, but you will notice some major differences here.
The Hue night market features an array of local delicacies, souvenirs, and unique, high-quality local handicrafts. Thus, this is not only a popular hangout for tourists but also for teens who like to take long, late-night strolls on the pavement.
The later it gets in Hue, the more vibrant and shiny the nightlife becomes. Whether it’s a clothing stand, a souvenir kiosk, or a seafood stall, they’re all visually appealing. Moreover, it offers a wide selection of fashionable, new-to-market clothing labels for people of all ages, especially women.