1. Where Are Hoi An Night Markets?

Hoi An is known for its two bustling night markets: Nguyen Hoang night market, and Cong Nu Ngoc Hoa night market. To visit the markets, you need to buy an entrance ticket to Hoi An ancient town. If your visit to the Ancient Town begins in the morning or afternoon, consider finding a cozy place to relax and wait for the night markets to light up the town with color and excitement.

You can use motorbikes, cars, or electric shuttles to get to the town center, but inside the Ancient Town, only bicycles, cyclos, or walking are allowed due to the prohibition of motorized vehicles at night.

Hoi An boasts energetic night markets that draw in crowds every evening (Source: Pexels)

Nguyen Hoang Night Market in Hoi An lies directly across from the Japanese Bridge Hoi An and runs perpendicular to the Hoai River that flows through the heart of the ancient town. To get there, walk from the central area, cross the An Hoi Bridge, turn right onto Nguyen Hoang Street, and you’ll find about 50 different stalls along a 300 - 500 meter stretch. This is an ideal spot to shop for colorful gifts, jewellery or fashionable items, sightsee, and enjoy the peaceful, dreamy charm of Hoi An at night, a scene that enchants both local and international visitors.

Cong Nu Ngoc Hoa Night Market lies on the same side as the Japanese Covered Bridge and has a similar length to the Nguyen Hoang night market. It’s the perfect stop for food lovers to explore. This market is filled with food stalls that offer a variety of dishes showcasing the rich flavors of Central Vietnam, such as “cao lau”, “mi Quang”, “banh beo”, baby clams with rice cracker, and many other street food that will tantalize your taste buds.

The location of Hoi An night markets

Night markets in Hoi An usually brim with vibrant food stalls and glowing lights (Source: Pexels)

2. Top 5 Must-Do Activities at Night Market Hoi An

Below are the highlights of the top 5 must-do activities at Night Market Hoi An, offering a curated list of experiences that will make your evening truly special. If you're wondering what to do in Hoi An, these market experiences are a fantastic start.

2.1. Indulge in Local Street Food

Hoi An Night Market is usually bustling with stalls selling street delicacies, making it a perfect spot for avid foodies to gather and enjoy Central Vietnam’s culinary traditions. With its vibrant atmosphere and mouthwatering aromas, it’s an unmissable destination if you're passionate about food. To enhance your culinary experience, we’ll first guide you through the options available at the market as well as some well-known nearby restaurants:

“Cao lau”

This dish contains chewy, yellow noodles, tender barbecued pork slices, crispy rice crackers, fresh lettuce, bean sprouts, and a rich stock. What makes it a standout is the water drawn from the Ba Le Well and the lye used in the preparation comes from trees on Cham Island, mixed with ashes from other trees, contributing to the slightly firm texture and distinctive taste of cao lau.

Recommended restaurants: Cao Lau Khong Gian Xanh, Quan Cao Lau Thanh, Quan Cao lau Ba Le

Cao Lau is an unmissable dish when visiting night market in Hoi An (Source: Canva)

Hoi An chicken rice

This dish features rice infused with the flavors of steamed pineapple leaves and turmeric powder, paired with tender chicken. It’s traditionally served with a bowl of chicken and egg broth, complemented by a sweet and sour sauce. For those craving something more nutritious, the beautifully balanced cucumber salad sourced from Tra Que Vegetable Village is a perfect way to round out the meal.

Recommended restaurants: Com Ga Ba Buoi, Com Ga Ba Thuan, Long Com Ga Chicken Rice Restaurant

If you're at Hoi An's night market, make sure to try the famous chicken rice (Source: Canva)

Quang noodle (mi Quang)

This popular noodle dish features golden, glossy rice noodles, and a variety of herbs, all served in a rich, turmeric-flavored broth that’s sure to delight your taste buds. What makes it more special is that you can choose from a wide variety of proteins, including chicken, beef, pork, shrimp, squid, clams, eel, and fish.

Recommended restaurants: Mi Quang Ong Hai - Mr. Hai Noodles, Mi Quang Ba Minh (Ngoc Thanh), Mi Quang 92

Food aficionados can't miss out on Quang noodle during your visit to Hoi An night market (Source: Pexels)

Water fern cake (Banh beo)

Water fern cake is a savory treat made from a blend of rice flour and tapioca flour, with a filling of minced shrimp and vegetables. Chewy and flavorful, it is a great choice for a light snack.

Recommended restaurants: Banh Beo Ba Bay, Banh Beo Ba My

Water fern cake is a delicious and light snack (Source: Canva)

Banh mi

A trip to Vietnam isn’t complete without a taste of its iconic street snack, “banh mi”. The tasty baguette is filled with an assortment of meats such as succulent chicken or tender pork, along with fresh vegetables like carrots and daikon, then topped off with a signature spicy sauce. This combination creates a unique flavor, setting banh mi Hoi An apart from other banh mi versions in Viet Nam.

Recommended restaurants: Banh Mi Co Ba, Phi Banh Mi, Banh Mi Phuong

Banh Mi Hoi An offers a unique flavor that leaves a lasting impression (Source: Pexels)

Next on the list are the street snacks that you’ll find along the paths of the night market. These snacks are usually available in numerous street vendors positioned closely together, and you can easily grab a bite from any stand you come across. They are all sweet-flavored dishes, so you can enjoy them as satisfying desserts.

• Mango cakes: Mango cakes or “banh xoai” features sticky rice packed with a sweet, aromatic filling of mango and coconut, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
• Tofu: This dish is frequently called “dau hu”, featuring smooth tofu topped with a sweet syrup made from ginger, sugar, and sometimes, coconut milk. Crushed ice is often added, along with a sprinkle of roasted sesame seeds or peanuts for extra flavor and texture.
• Hoi An sweet soup: This sweet treat is also known as “che Hoi An”, combining a variety of textures and flavors such as coconut, beans, tapioca pearls, and many more, then chilled with ice, offering a cool, tasty treat dessert to relish in the warm evening as you explore the charming streets of Hoi An.

Dau hu is the perfect snack to enjoy on a hot and sunny day (Source: Canva)

Local tips:

• Look for the crowd: Locals often know where the best food is. If you see a stall with a line of locals waiting to be served, it’s usually a good sign that the food is delicious and authentic.
• Ask about ingredients: If you have allergies or special dietary needs, politely inform the vendor in advance and ask about ingredients to ensure your food is safe.

2.2. Shop for Unique Handicrafts And Souvenirs

Hoi An Night Market is a wonderful destination to immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. Here are the best items you should look for while exploring the bustling market.

Ao Dai

Ao Dai is the classic Vietnamese garment, a flowing tunic worn over silk trousers, often used for formal events. The Ao Dai highlights a woman's silhouette, creating a sleek and sophisticated look while maintaining modesty. In Hoi An, there are numerous shops that can deliver outfits within a day. Besides Ao Dai, visitors can also request suits, dresses, etc, all tailored to fit perfectly and match the design they choose.

Recommended shops: BeBe Tailor, A Dong Silk Hoi An Tailor, Yaly Couture Exclusive, B'Lan Silk Hieu Vai Phuoc Hung

Visitors have the chance to create a bespoke Ao Dai in Hoi An (Source: Pexels)

Leather bags

If you're looking for a unique souvenir, handmade leather bags at the Hoi An night market are a must-have. Made from 100% real leather, these bags combine durability with timeless style, making them a great choice for those who love a vintage and casual look.

Recommended shops: Da Bao Real Leather, Hen Leather Shop, Hoi An Soul

High-quality leather bags in Hoi An (Source: Pexels)

Silk lanterns

The silk lanterns in Hoi An are bursting with colors, with each hue carrying a specific meaning. Red lanterns, for example, are believed to bring wealth and good fortune. They are also often adorned with elaborate designs, including flowers, representations of the Four Sacred Animals, and Chinese calligraphy. You can buy these lanterns at almost every shop since they’re available throughout the Hoi An night market.

Silk lanterns in Hoi An usually come in a variety of colors (Source: Pexels)

Handicrafts and pottery

Beyond the iconic lanterns, Hoi An is also celebrated for its one-of-a-kind handicrafts and pottery, featuring an array of stunning patterns. Prices for these souvenirs range from 10,000 VND to 200,000 VND, based on the design and product type, and they’re available at any store you pass by.

After visiting the night market, you can head to Thanh Ha Pottery Villagein the morning for an even greater variety of ceramic creations.

If you're looking for more ceramic options, Thanh Ha Pottery Village is the place to go (Source: Pexels)

Local tips:

• Bargain respectfully: Bargaining is common at the night market, but always do so politely. Start by offering around 60 - 70% of the asking price and negotiate from there.
• Get custom items: Some vendors offer custom embroidery or engraving, so you can personalize your souvenirs, such as getting your name on a silk scarf or a wooden keychain.
• Be patient and take your time: The best souvenirs are often found by wandering around and exploring various stalls. Take your time to see the full range of options before making a decision.

2.3. Stroll through The Lantern-Lit Streets

In Hoi An, lanterns go beyond decoration as they are a true reflection of the town’s spirit, giving insight into its history, artistic culture, and its community. The lanterns of Hoi An light up the town nightly, creating a dazzling wonderland. As the day fades, the Old Town is bathed in a magical glow, with the lanterns casting a warm and colorful light over the streets and rivers. This nightly spectacle is a testament to Hoi An’s effort to preserve its cultural charm, turning every evening into a festive experience.

For an enchanting experience, stroll through the lantern-filled streets right after sunset when the lights are at their brightest. The Japanese Covered Bridge, where the lanterns create a mesmerizing reflection on the water, and Nguyen Thai Hoc, Tran Phu, and Bach Dang Streets, renowned for their lively and colorful lantern displays, are among the top places to enjoy this scene.

What makes your night trip to Hoi An night market even more extraordinary is the Lantern Festival Hoi An, which happens on the 14th night of each lunar month. On these special nights between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM, the Old Town turns off electric lights and blocks traffic. Locals hang lanterns outside their homes, while visitors float lanterns on the Hoai River and enjoy cultural shows like lion dances, martial arts, and Bai Choi singing.

Wander along the lantern-filled streets in Hoi An (Source: Pexels)

2.4. Experience Traditional Folk Games and Performances

To truly experience the essence of Hoi An, you can participate in traditional folk games or enjoy the beautiful Bai Choi music, both of which offer a glimpse into Vietnamese culture. Known as a traditional folk game, Bai Choi involves card games played in a hut.

This game is conducted in an organized manner, with a guide providing a comprehensive explanation before each round. For foreign tourists, English-speaking staff are present to explain the rules and guide them through the game.

Bai Choi game rules are straightforward, combining elements of card games and bingo. Players sit in a circle, with one person acting as the "caller" who announces the cards drawn. Each player has a set of cards with images and marks the matching pictures as they are called out. The goal is to be the first to complete a specific pattern or line such as a row, column, or diagonal on their card to win. The game is filled with chants and music, creating an exciting and festive environment.

Experience Bai Choi game with locals and other travelers

2.5. Take A Lantern Boat Ride on The Hoai River

A boat ride on the Hoai River, offering the breathtaking views of the ancient town that is adorned with stunning lanterns, making it a perfect way to unwind in Hoi An at night. While gliding on the river and taking in the peaceful surroundings, you can set lanterns afloat, a tradition believed to bring good fortune and joy.

Each boat ride takes about 20 minutes, providing you with enough time to be captivated by the glowing lantern reflections on the water and immerse yourself in the allure of Hoi An ancient town from an unforgettable angle. The best time to enjoy this activity is from January to April, when the weather is pleasant, with bright sunshine, less rain, and a cool breeze.

Many local boatmen and lantern shops arrange this experience at Bach Dang Street and visitors can make further inquiries about boat rentals at tourist centers or your hotel for assistance.

Enjoy a lantern boat for a ride along the Hoai River (Source: Pexels)

3. Best Check-in Spots at Hoi An Night Market

Beyond the unique souvenirs and delicious street food, Hoi An Night Market is a haven for visual storytellers. Let’s unveil the best check-in spots at Hoi An Night Market, perfect for showcasing your unforgettable experiences.

3.1. Hoai River Pier with Floating Lanterns

Once the sun sets, the evening transforms Hoai river pier into a picturesque scene, with colorful lanterns lighting up the surroundings and their reflections dancing on the water. The lively but tranquil ambiance, enhanced by traditional boats and lovely buildings, creates a magical setting for capturing romantic moments.

For even more picture-perfect moments by the Hoai River pier, be sure to experience releasing lanterns from a boat. It’s a serene and romantic experience, creating beautiful snapshots, but remember to follow all safety instructions provided by your boatman.

Releasing lanterns onto the water brings photogenic moments (Source: Pexels)

3.2. The Lantern Stalls

Lantern stalls in Hoi An light up your photo collection with their dazzling spectrum of colors. It’s hard to come across a backdrop that is so vivid and whimsical. You can stop by Den Long Tuoi Ngoc or Den Long Phuoc Dong, sit back and relax in a world where light and color merge to create an incredible scene.

To get the best photographs of the lanterns, visit here during the golden hour, which occurs around sunset. Additionally, keep in mind that to enjoy a wonderful experience, it's essential to behave politely and respect the lantern shop owners. Be sure to greet them and ask if it's okay to take photos with their lanterns. If you’re not buying one, they may request a photography fee of 10,000 to 20,000 VND.

A beautiful shot with lanterns lighting up the background (Source: Pexels)

3.3. Hidden Alleyways with Iconic Yellow Walls

Scattered across Hoi An’s Ancient Town, particularly on streets like Pham Hong Thai, Tran Phu, and Le Loi, you'll find secret alleyways with iconic yellow walls. These picturesque lanes, often tucked out of sight from the main roads, are lined with vintage buildings in golden-yellow hues, creating a peaceful and photogenic escape from the lively streets.

If you're looking to photograph the hidden alleyways with yellow walls in Hoi An, the best times are in the early morning or late afternoon. In the morning, the gentle light creates a peaceful and cozy vibe, and the golden hour later in the day brings a magical radiance that highlights the yellow walls, ideal for beautiful photos.

The romantic vibe of hidden alleyways with iconic yellow walls (Source: Pexels)

3.4. Hoai River Square

Situated along the calm Hoai River, Hoai River Square in Hoi An is a lovely and serene spot that reflects the town's enchanting atmosphere. The square is also a vibrant gathering place, where visitors can take boat rides, enjoy traditional performances, and observe the delightful mix of locals and tourists, all beneath the soft and magical glow of the lanterns.

The perfect moment to photograph Hoai River Square is during the evening, particularly as the sun sets and the night deepens. The lanterns casting their warm glow on the river and streets, combined with the calm atmosphere and the gentle breeze, offers a serene atmosphere that is ideal for a calm, enjoyable walk.

The most perfect time to take photos of Hoai River Square is during the evening (Source: Pexels)

3.5. An Hoi Bridge over Hoai River

An Hoi Bridge, a traditional bridge with striking lanterns, serves as the connection between Hoi An’s Ancient Town and the Nguyen Hoang Night Market. As you stand on the bridge, it offers magnificent views of the river and the surrounding area, and in the evening, the lanterns illuminate the bridge, creating a magical and inviting atmosphere.

An Hoi Bridge offers a stunning fusion of nature, culture, and history, making it an exceptional place for photography. Whether in the early morning or late afternoon, when the soft light amplifies the bridge and river’s colors, or just after sunset, when the vibrant lanterns light up the scene, the view here is always breathtaking.

The sophisticated design of An Hoi Bridge offers a picturesque setting for great photos (Source: Pexels)

4. Best 5 Nearby Attractions to Explore around Hoi An Night Market

To truly appreciate the depth and breadth of what Hoi An has to offer, venturing beyond the market's stalls is essential. Below are the five best nearby sites to discover after or before experiencing the vibrant energy of the Hoi An Night Market.

4.1. Japanese Covered Bridge (3-minute walk)

Japanese Covered Bridge is one of Hoi An's most recognizable landmarks, seamlessly blending historical significance with cultural and architectural beauty. Built in the 16th century by the Japanese community, this picturesque wooden bridge is adorned with intricate carvings and a unique roof, featuring traditional statues of dogs and monkeys.

The bridge spans a serene canal, embraced by lush greenery, providing a stunning view, especially at sunset when the soft light reflects off the water's surface. With its classic beauty, elegant arch, and tranquil atmosphere, the Japanese Covered Bridge is a must-see and one of the most photographed locations in Hoi An.

Local tips:

• Respect the temple: The Japanese Covered Bridge houses a small temple on one side, which locals use for worship. Be respectful when visiting, and try to keep noise to a minimum while inside.
• Take photos from different angles: For the best photos, try capturing the bridge from both sides – one from the riverbank to get a full view and one near the bridge for a unique perspective, especially at sunset when the lanterns light up.
• Stay safe around the water: The canal beneath the bridge can get slippery, especially during rainy weather. Be cautious when walking near the edge, particularly if you're taking photos.
• Hire a tour guide: Visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge with a tour guide offers the opportunity to hear fascinating historical facts and local stories that bring the bridge to life.

Take photos from different angles at Japanese Covered Bridge (Source: Pexels)

4.2. Hoi An Ancient Town (2-minute walk)

Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its well-preserved mixture of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architectural features. The town’s narrow lanes are lined with vibrant shop houses, ancient temples, and colorful lanterns that transform the streets into a magical and timeless environment at night.

The appeal of Hoi An Ancient Town is in its calm and inviting atmosphere, where the town’s historic essence, traditional architecture, and beautiful riverside views merge, making it one of the most picturesque and culturally rich places in Vietnam.

Local tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes: The streets of Hoi An are mostly narrow and cobblestone, so comfortable footwear is important for walking around and exploring.
• Avoid midday heat: The midday sun can be quite hot, so try to take a break during this time, perhaps in one of the town's cozy cafes or tea houses.
• Respect local traditions: Hoi An has many temples and historical sites, so be respectful when visiting religious sites by dressing modestly and keeping noise to a minimum.
• Be aware of extra fees in some attractions: Some places in the Old Town may charge separately for entry, which is not included in the original ticket price.

The beauty of Hoi An’s historic town is found in its calm and warm atmosphere (Source: Pexels)

4.3. Tan Ky Old House (7-minute walk)

Tan Ky Old House in Hoi An, recognized as a UNESCO world heritage site in 1990, is a stunning 18th-century merchant house that belonged to the Le family for seven generations. Its name, "Tan Ky," was chosen to represent the family's hopes for business success and wealth. The house showcases a fusion of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese design elements, with elaborate wooden carvings, antique furniture, and delicate tilework.

Featuring open courtyards and an abundance of natural light, the design of Tan Ky Old House allows visitors to glimpse the lifestyle of a once-prosperous merchant family. The serene atmosphere and historical beauty of the house make it an essential visit for those wishing to discover the fascinating past of Hoi An.

Local tips:

• Visit early or late in the day: To avoid crowds, visit the Tan Ky Old House at 8:00 AM or 4:30 PM. This also allows you to enjoy the house in softer light for better photos.
• Take your time: The house is small but packed with intricate details, so take your time to appreciate the unique architectural elements and the history of the place.
• Listen to the guide: If you have a guide, take the opportunity to learn more about its cultural significance and fascinating stories about the house's former owners.
• Respect the quiet atmosphere: Tan Ky Old House is a calm and historical site, so be mindful of the quiet atmosphere and avoid making loud noises while inside.

• Tan Ky Old House reveals the lifestyle of a once-wealthy merchant family
  

  4.4. Sa Huynh Culture Museum (5-minute walk)

  Address: 149 Tran Phu Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An Town, Quang Nam Province Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (Monday to Friday) Entrance fee: 80,000 VND (for Vietnamese) - 150,000 VND (for international visitors)

  With a diverse collection of pottery, tools, and jewelry, Sa Huynh Culture Museum offers a fascinating look into the lives and culture of the Sa Huynh civilization, which once thrived in Central Vietnam over two thousand years ago. The museum’s traditional architecture, along with its fascinating collection of exhibits, creates a calm and contemplative space for learning about the region’s early history.

  Local tips:

  • Take time to explore: The museum is very rich in history, so take your time to read the informative displays and learn about the ancient Sa Huynh culture and its artifacts.
  • Ask for a guide: If you want more in-depth knowledge, consider asking the staff for additional information or a guide to explain the significance of the exhibits.
  • Respect the artifacts: Many of the pieces are very old and fragile, so be sure to respect the museum’s rules, such as not touching the artifacts.

Sa Huynh Culture Museum offers a glimpse into the history of the Sa Huynh civilization

4.5. Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum (10-minute walk)

Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum in Hoi An stands out as a cultural gem, featuring the captivating photography and art of Rehahn, a French photographer who has devoted years to documenting 54 ethnic groups throughout Vietnam.

The museum displays an impressive collection of portraits that vividly capture the customs, lifestyles, and traditional attire of Vietnam’s ethnic groups, giving visitors a profound understanding of the nation's cultural richness. Art lovers will get to explore famous works by Rehahn, including the touching and internationally recognized portrait “Hidden Smile” of Madame Xong. For an even broader cultural exploration, check out Top 7 Unique Hoi An Museums You Can’t Miss in 2025.

Tourists can enjoy hands-on cultural activities like trying traditional ethnic outfits, learning the intricate craft of brocade weaving as a way to engage with the art and culture of Vietnam’s ethnic communities. For a more in-depth look at the S-shaped country's ethnic groups, watching documentaries is a great way to explore their daily routines and long-standing customs.

Local tips:

• Ask for insights: If you're interested in learning more about the ethnic groups featured in the photos, ask the staff for additional information. The museum’s focus on cultural diversity can provide valuable insights into Vietnam’s rich heritage.
• Don’t miss the gift shop: The gallery often offers unique, locally made souvenirs such as books and prints of Rehahn's photographs.

Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum invites visitors on a visually engaging journey through Vietnam’s diverse culture

5. Local Tips for The Best Experience at Hoi An Night Market

To help you navigate the crowds, find the most valuable goods, and ultimately create lasting memories at this vibrant hub, we’ve curated a list of insider local tips:

• Choose the right outfit: Vintage-style garments will help you immerse in the ancient atmosphere of Hoi An night market.
• Select comfortable shoes: For a pleasant experience in the busy market, sandals or sports shoes will be the best choice.
• Be respectful while negotiating: You can suggest lowering the price by 25 - 30% compared to the starting price, but remember to maintain politeness.
• Bring cash: Since cash is the preferred payment method in most market stalls, it will help you pay for your items more efficiently.
• Keep an eye on your personal items: Hoi An night markets can get very busy, particularly during peak times, so make sure to safeguard your belongings. Or, use a crossbody bag or backpack with zippers to store valuables like your wallet or phone.
• Explore with a local guide: To make the most of your experience, consider hiring an expert guide who can offer valuable cultural insights and ensure smooth exploration.

Choose comfortable attire and shoes to make the most of your time exploring the Hoi An night market (Source: Pexels)

With its captivating history, charming vibe, and abundance of activities, night market Hoi An is a must-see destination for all travelers. Whether you're looking for a special souvenir, relishing savory street food, or just immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere, the market provides something enjoyable for everyone.

For further details on travel advice, top destinations, and local food suggestions, head over to Vietnam Airlines’ official website.