If you have the opportunity to travel to Hue, visiting Dong Ba Market is a must—highly recommended by many who’ve been there before. This isn’t just a market selling everyday goods and food; it’s also a treasure trove of culture, local specialties, and perfect souvenirs to bring home for friends and family. Let’s explore this vibrant market with some helpful tips to make the most of your visit!
Introduction to Dong Ba Market in Hue
Dong Ba Market is the most famous traditional market in the ancient capital of Hue, rich in cultural and historical value. Originally named Quy Gia Market, it marked the return of the Nguyen Dynasty to Phu Xuan. The name Dong Ba Market officially appeared in 1887, during the reign of King Dong Khanh.
Today, Dong Ba Market is located at No. 2 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Hoa Ward, Hue City, between Gia Hoi Bridge and Trang Tien Bridge, right by the banks of the Perfume River.
How to Get to Dong Ba Market Quickly
Since Dong Ba Market is situated in the heart of Hue city, it’s easy to find. From your accommodation, you can take a taxi or ride a motorbike directly to Tran Hung Dao Street, right next to the Perfume River—you’ll spot the bustling market immediately.
For the best travel experience, especially by taxi, opt for a reputable and high-quality service like Xanh SM Taxi.
Best Time to Visit Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is always bustling with activity, selling everything from food to household essentials. However, the best time to visit—according to seasoned shoppers—is after 3 PM. By this time, the weather is more pleasant, the market is less crowded, and it’s easier to explore at a relaxed pace.
Layout of Dong Ba Market in Hue
Dong Ba Market features a three-story central building, known as the “bell tower”, surrounded by U-shaped rows of shops. Each floor specializes in different types of goods, neatly organized into sections for easier navigation:
- Third Floor: This is the first area you’ll encounter, filled with fabrics and clothing, especially high-quality materials perfect for making traditional ao dai. If you’re looking for a meaningful gift for mothers or grandmothers, this is a great option.
- Second Floor: Here you’ll find an eye-catching array of handicrafts, including poem conical hats, bronze items, ceramics from Phuoc Tich Village, bamboo products, and countless souvenirs ideal for gifts.
- First Floor: This level specializes in dried seafood from Central Vietnam and various Hue fermented fish sauces, such as Mam Co Ri and Mam Nem. The vendors here are very friendly and happy to help you find the perfect local delicacy to take home.
What Makes Dong Ba Market in Hue Special?
1. Shopping Experience with a Wide Range of Local Goods
With its three levels and hundreds of stalls, Dong Ba Market is a perfect place to shop for souvenirs and gifts. You’ll find everything from tailoring fabrics to handcrafted decor, traditional jewelry, and more.
2. What to Eat at Dong Ba Market?
As the sun sets and you step outside the bell tower, you’ll see numerous food stalls surrounding the market. Some must-try Hue delicacies include:
- Turmeric vermicelli soup (Bún nghệ)
- Sia rice paper (Bánh tráng Sịa)
- Grilled pork vermicelli from Kim Long (Bún thịt nướng Kim Long)
- Nam Pho thick noodle soup (Bánh canh Nam Phổ)
- Crispy pancakes (Bánh khoái)
- Shrimp paste leaf cakes (Bánh lá chả tôm)
- Steamed flat rice cakes (Bánh nậm, bánh ướt)
- Sweet mung bean dessert (Chè đậu ván)
- Hue-style sweet soup varieties (Chè thập cẩm, chè thịt quay)
FAQs are a valuable insights resource that travelers should review before their trip.
Is Dong Ba Market open every day?
Yes, Dong Ba Market Hue Vietnam is generally open every day. However, the separate stalls may have varying opening hours. The market itself generally opens early in the morning around 6:00 AM and closes in the late afternoon around 6:00 PM. Some of the food stalls may be open later. It is best to visit during the daytime in order to view the market in all its glory.
What is the best time of day to visit the market?
The best time to visit Hue Dong Ba Market is in the morning, between 8:00 AM and 11:00 AM. This is when the market is most active, and you get to see the stall owners setting up their wares as well as the locals doing their daily shopping. Visiting in the morning also allows you to avoid the midday heat.
Do visitors pay by card or cash only?
Dong Ba Market Hue primarily operates on a cash-only basis. While some larger stalls may accept credit cards, it is advisable to bring Vietnamese Dong (VND) for your purchases. ATMs are available near the market for withdrawing cash. It is also good practice to carry small denominations for easier transactions. Bargaining is expected, and having cash on hand makes it easier to negotiate prices.
