Haiphong’s third-largest city, is a bustling port town with a rich cultural tapestry and a vibrant market scene. Expats and digital nomads living in Haiphong will find a variety of markets that cater to all their needs, from fresh produce to handcrafted goods. Whether you’re looking for the freshest ingredients for your next meal, unique souvenirs, or just a lively place to explore, Haiphong’s markets are an essential part of the local experience. Here are some of the best markets in Haiphong that you should not miss.
Tam Bac Market
Location: Hong Bang District, Haiphong
Type of Market: Traditional Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM
Tam Bac Market is one of the oldest and most popular markets in Haiphong. It’s a bustling hub where locals come to shop for a wide range of products, including fresh food, clothing, and household items. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and the variety of goods available make it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the local way of life.
We Recommend: Trying the local street food delicacies such as “banh mi” or “pho”, which are available from various food stalls within the market.
Cho Sat Market
Location: Ngo Quyen District, Haiphong
Type of Market: General Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 5 PM
Cho Sat Market, also known as the Iron Market, is a historical market that has been around for over a century. It’s a great place to find fresh produce, seafood, and meat, as well as textiles and clothing. The market is housed in a French colonial building, adding a touch of history to your shopping experience.
We Recommend: Exploring the seafood section for the freshest catch of the day, which is a staple in the local diet and always a delicious choice.
Haiphong Night Market
Location: Le Chan District, Haiphong
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Daily, 6 PM – 11 PM
The Haiphong Night Market is a lively destination that comes alive after sunset. It’s a great place to shop for clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. The market also features a variety of food stalls, making it the perfect spot to enjoy an evening snack or meal while soaking in the local nightlife.
We Recommend: Sampling the grilled seafood dishes, which are a crowd favorite and offer a taste of Haiphong’s coastal flavors.
Lac Long Market
Location: Lac Long, Haiphong
Type of Market: Local Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 6 PM
Lac Long Market is a smaller, more traditional market where you can find a variety of goods, from fresh vegetables and fruits to meat and fish. It’s less touristy than other markets, offering a more authentic shopping experience and a chance to interact with local vendors.
We Recommend: Picking up some local fruits like “mangosteen” or “rambutan” for a refreshing and exotic treat.
Cho Hang Market
Location: Le Chan District, Haiphong
Type of Market: Indoor Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 5 PM
Cho Hang Market is a well-known indoor market in Haiphong, famous for its wide selection of dry goods, including fabrics, clothing, and shoes. It’s an excellent place for expats and digital nomads to find materials for tailoring or to pick up some traditional Vietnamese attire.
We Recommend: Browsing the fabric stalls for high-quality silk, which can be used to have custom clothing made by local tailors.
Trang Due Industrial Market
Location: An Duong District, Haiphong
Type of Market: Specialized Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 5 PM
Trang Due Industrial Market is a unique destination catering to those interested in industrial goods, machinery, and tools. While it may not be your typical market for everyday shopping, it’s an interesting place to explore and find items that are hard to come by elsewhere.
We Recommend: Checking out the selection of handcrafted tools and equipment, which can be fascinating for those with an interest in DIY or industrial design.
Le Chan Local Market
Location: Le Chan District, Haiphong
Type of Market: Community Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 6 PM
Le Chan Local Market is a smaller, neighborhood market where residents go for their daily shopping. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local community and find fresh, locally-sourced produce and household essentials.
We Recommend: Trying the homemade “banh cuon” (steamed rice rolls) from one of the food vendors, a popular breakfast dish in Vietnam.
City Center Market
Location: City Center, Haiphong
Type of Market: Urban Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 9 PM
City Center Market is a convenient stop for those living in the heart of Haiphong. It offers a mix of products, including clothing, electronics, and beauty products. It’s also a good spot to find quick eats and street food.
We Recommend: Grabbing a “ca phe sua da” (Vietnamese iced coffee) from a nearby café to enjoy while you browse the stalls.
These markets in Haiphong offer a glimpse into the daily life of the city and provide a rich cultural experience for expats and digital nomads. Whether you’re shopping for necessities or looking for unique finds, Haiphong’s markets are sure to have something for everyone.
