Hue, is a city steeped in history and culture, offering expats and digital nomads a unique living experience. One of the charms of Hue is its vibrant markets, where locals and visitors alike can immerse themselves in the hustle and bustle of Vietnamese commerce. From traditional food markets to eclectic flea markets, Hue has a variety of shopping venues that cater to all tastes. Here are some of the best markets in Hue that you should not miss, each offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle and an opportunity to find unique items.
Dong Ba Market
Location: Tran Hung Dao Street, Hue
Type of Market: Traditional Market
Open: Daily, 3 AM – 8 PM
Dong Ba Market is the oldest and most famous market in Hue, known for its historical significance and extensive selection of goods. It’s a bustling hub where you can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to clothing, souvenirs, and traditional handicrafts. The market’s atmosphere is lively and offers a true taste of local life.
We Recommend: Trying the local specialty, Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup that is a culinary staple in the region. Also, look out for the traditional conical hats, known as ‘non la’, which make for a perfect souvenir.
An Cuu Market
Location: Hung Vuong Street, Hue
Type of Market: Local Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 7 PM
An Cuu Market is a less touristy option where you can experience the day-to-day life of Hue residents. This market is particularly known for its fresh produce and meat sections, as well as an array of local snacks and street food options that are popular among the locals.
We Recommend: Sampling some of the fresh tropical fruits or indulging in a plate of ‘banh beo’ – small steamed rice cakes topped with savory ingredients.
Phu Hau Market
Location: Phu Hau Ward, Hue
Type of Market: Neighborhood Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM
Phu Hau Market is a smaller, neighborhood market that offers a more intimate shopping experience. It’s a great place to find fresh local ingredients if you’re looking to cook at home, as well as a variety of household goods.
We Recommend: Picking up some freshly made ‘banh khoai’, a crispy pancake filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts, which is a delightful snack or meal.
Tay Loc Market
Location: Tay Loc Ward, Hue
Type of Market: Local Market
Open: Daily, 5 AM – 5 PM
Tay Loc Market is off the beaten path and is frequented by locals. It’s known for its affordable prices and is a great place to observe local life. You can find a variety of goods, including clothing, fabric, and kitchenware.
We Recommend: Exploring the fabric stalls for high-quality silk and tailor services to get custom-made clothing at a fraction of what you would pay elsewhere.
Ben Ngu Market
Location: Vi Da Ward, Hue
Type of Market: Riverside Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 5 PM
Ben Ngu Market is located by the river, offering a picturesque setting for your market adventures. It’s a great spot to find fresh fish and seafood, as well as local specialties that are hard to find elsewhere.
We Recommend: Enjoying the fresh catch of the day, which you can have cooked to order at one of the nearby food stalls for a delicious and fresh meal.
Night Market in Hue Walking Street
Location: Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, Hue
Type of Market: Night Market
Open: Daily, 5 PM – 11 PM
The Night Market in Hue Walking Street comes alive in the evening with a festive atmosphere. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs, handicrafts, and enjoy street performances. The market is also lined with food stalls offering a variety of local dishes.
We Recommend: Trying the ‘che’, a traditional Vietnamese sweet dessert soup that comes in many flavors and varieties. It’s a perfect treat to enjoy as you stroll through the market.
Con Hen Market
Location: Vi Da Ward, Hue
Type of Market: Local Market
Open: Daily, 6 AM – 6 PM
Con Hen Market is situated on Hen Islet in the Perfume River and is known for its fresh seafood and local dishes. The market has a laid-back vibe and is less crowded than some of the other markets in Hue.
We Recommend: Indulging in a bowl of ‘com hen’ or mussel rice, a traditional Hue dish that is both flavorful and filling.
These markets in Hue offer a diverse shopping experience for expats and digital nomads, providing a window into the local culture and an opportunity to engage with the community. Whether you’re looking for fresh food, unique souvenirs, or just a lively atmosphere, Hue’s markets are sure to enrich your stay in this historic Vietnamese city.
