Ha Long Night Market: A Paradise for Shopping and Local Cuisine

If you are seeking a destination that beautifully combines the charm of local culture with a vibrant atmosphere, Ha Long Night Market is the perfect place to visit. Located in the heart of Quang Ninh Province’s most bustling tourist area, this night market offers a memorable experience where visitors can explore a wide range of handicrafts, souvenirs, and indulge in the finest street food specialties.

1. Location and Opening Hours

Located in the heart of Bai Chay – a bustling coastal tourist area of Ha Long City – Ha Long Night Market is a vibrant destination that comes alive after sunset.

• Address: Ha Long Street, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
• Opening Hours: Daily from 06:00 PM - 11:00 PM

With over 300 stalls spread across multiple sections, the market offers a lively atmosphere filled with colors, lights, and enticing aromas. Visitors can find everything from souvenirs and clothing to local delicacies, making it a favorite stop for both domestic and international tourists.

The peak activity occurs between 7:30 PM and 10:00 PM. During high tourist seasons, such as summer or national holidays, many stalls extend their hours to cater to the influx of visitors.

Whether you are a food lover, a souvenir collector, or simply someone who enjoys the night vibe of a coastal city, Ha Long Night Market is a must-visit spot during your stay (Source: Internet)

2. 3+ Ways to Get to Ha Long Night Market

Getting to Ha Long Night Market is easy and convenient, regardless of where you are staying in the city.

• From Ha Long city center: A quick 10 - 15 minute ride by motorbike, taxi, or electric vehicle.
• From nearby Bai Chay hotels: Most accommodations are within walking distance (1 - 2km), or you can rent a bicycle for a relaxing ride.
• From Hanoi: Traveling via the Hanoi - Ha Long Expressway takes about 2.5 hours. Visitors can also use buses or limousines departing daily. Upon arrival, taxis or shuttle buses are available to take you to Bai Chay.
• From other provinces: You can book the flight to Quang Ninh then use a taxi, bus to get to Bai Chay.

Plan to arrive in the late afternoon to explore nearby attractions before immersing yourself in the lively night market (Source: Internet)

3. 3 Must-Buy Items at Ha Long Night Market

Ha Long Night Market is a treasure trove of local goods and traditional items. From handmade souvenirs to authentic Quang Ninh specialties, there is something for every traveler to bring home.

3.1. Souvenirs

A popular choice for tourists, the souvenir section offers keychains, T-shirts printed with images of Ha Long Bay, handcrafted magnets, and traditional paper fans. Many vendors provide custom engraving services for a more personalized gift.

Visitors can buy clothing, neckerchief, etc. in affordable price (Source: Internet)

3.2. Handicrafts

Delicate crafts made from seashells, bamboo, wood, and even natural pearls are displayed at several artisan stalls. Shoppers can find intricately carved wooden items, decorative lanterns, and elegant pearl jewelry - all crafted by local artisans.

The exquisite handcrafted items with a diverse range of types (Source: Internet)

3.3. Brocade Textiles & Traditional Garments

Reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam, these items are both functional and decorative. Visitors can fid a wide range of goods include:

• Brocade bags and scarves: Handwoven textiles featuring intricate patterns and vibrant colors.
• Traditional garments: Items like áo dài (traditional Vietnamese dresses) and hats that represent Vietnamese culture.

These products are often handmade by local artisans, offering a unique and personal souvenir (Source: Internet)

3.4. Local Specialties

Ha Long is known for its dried seafood products. You’ll find a variety of options such as dried squid, fish floss, dried scallops, and the famous “Cha Muc” (grilled squid cake). These items are often vacuum-sealed and well-packaged—perfect for souvenirs or gifts.

Fish floss can be paired with rice, porridge, or bread, offering a rich and flavorful taste (Source: Internet)

4. 5+ Must-Try Dishes at Ha Long Night Market

Ha Long Night Market is a haven for food lovers. The food stalls offer a culinary adventure featuring both traditional Vietnamese dishes and regional specialties unique to the area.

• Fresh seafood: Seafood is a highlight of the market, freshly grilled or steamed on the spot. Try clams with scallion oil, grilled prawns with chili salt, steamed crabs, and squid skewers. All dishes are served hot and prepared with local spices that enhance the natural flavor.
• Banh Cuon Cha Muc (Steamed Rice Rolls with Grilled Squid Patties): This dish combines soft steamed rice rolls with Ha Long’s iconic grilled squid patties. Served with a special dipping sauce, this is a must-try for those who want to taste the true essence of Ha Long cuisine.
• Banh Gat Gu (Gat Gu Cake): This rolled rice cake is served with tender pork and a savory fish sauce blend. It’s soft, chewy, and incredibly flavorful.
• Banh Troi Tau (Troi Tau Cake): These warm glutinous rice balls are filled with mung bean paste or black sesame, served in a sweet ginger syrup. Perfect for a chilly night stroll through the market.
• Banh Goi (Vietnamese Pillow Cake): A crispy, golden-fried dumpling filled with ground pork, mushrooms, and vermicelli noodles. It’s a perfect handheld snack to enjoy while browsing through the stalls.

Some must-try specialty dishes that tourists definitely cannot miss in Ha Long (Source: Internet)

5. Tips for Visiting Ha Long Night Market

To make the most of your experience, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Ask for prices before buying: Bargaining is common, so be sure to ask and negotiate prices upfront.
• Secure your belongings: As with any crowded area, stay mindful of your personal items.
• Dress comfortably: Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes to enjoy walking and exploring.

Ha Long Night Market is an essential part of your Ha Long journey (Source: Internet)

6. Other Night Attractions in Ha Long Worth Exploring

Once you’ve explored the colorful and bustling Ha Long Night Market, there’s still plenty to see and do as Ha Long’s nightlife has a lot more to offer. Here are some vibrant and lively spots worth checking out after sunset:

• Ha Long Old Quarter: Modeled after Hanoi’s famous Old Quarter, this area captures a nostalgic ambiance with its French colonial architecture, quaint shops, and glowing lanterns that illuminate the streets at night. It’s perfect for a peaceful evening stroll, snapping picturesque photos, or enjoying local Vietnamese delicacies in cozy cafes and street-side eateries. The Old Quarter also hosts occasional cultural performances and street artists, adding a touch of authenticity to the night experience.
• Ha Long Bazaar Night Market: This multi-story shopping complex offers a wide variety of goods — from local handicrafts and souvenirs to international fashion brands and electronics. Its clean, air-conditioned environment provides a relaxing shopping experience, and there are several food stalls and small restaurants inside where you can grab a snack or try local dishes. It’s a great place to find quality items at reasonable prices, especially if you're looking for gifts.
• Ha Long’s Western Street: Looking for a more upbeat and social atmosphere? Head over to Western Street (often referred to as "Pho Tay" by locals), located just a short walk or taxi ride from the main night market. This vibrant stretch is known for its dynamic nightlife scene that caters largely to international visitors. Just a short distance from the main night market, this area is popular among foreign tourists with its pubs, live music, and lively bars.

Whether you're in the mood for a quiet evening walk, some retail therapy, or dancing the night away with a drink in hand, Ha Long's nightlife has something for every traveler. Be sure to explore beyond the night market to get the full after-dark experience of this beautiful coastal city!

Ha Long Night Market is more than just a shopping destination - it is a cultural experience that captures the spirit of this coastal city. With its vibrant energy, delicious food, and diverse array of goods, the market allows visitors to immerse themselves in local life while creating lasting memories.

To discover the charm and hospitality of Ha Long Night Market, book your Flight to Quang Ninh with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.