Hanoi Weekend Night Market: Hoan Kiem Ward Guide & Eco Tours

A Bustling Hub of Culture and Commerce

Hanoi’s Weekend Night Market, stretching 3 km from Hoan Kiem Lake to Dong Xuan Market in Hoan Kiem Ward, is a cultural extravaganza, drawing over 50,000–100,000 visitors every Friday to Sunday evening. This pedestrian-only market, alive from 6:00 PM to midnight, transforms the Old Quarter’s historic streets—Hàng Đào, Hàng Ngang, and Hàng Đường—into a vibrant marketplace of nearly 4,000 stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, and iconic street foods like phở and bánh mì for $0.80–$3 (20,000–75,000 VND). It’s a must-visit for travelers seeking Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage, illuminated by colorful lights and cultural performances.

Since its inception in 2003, the market has blended traditional Vietnamese crafts with modern nightlife, offering folk music, ca trù performances, and a lively atmosphere. Eco-friendly practices, such as biodegradable food packaging and local artisan support, align with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative in a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this dynamic market, ensuring a green, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to the Weekend Night Market using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural immersion. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos or VinBus, led by English-speaking guides who share market histories, cultural insights, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local artisans and vendors, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore the Weekend Night Market responsibly!

The Hanoi Weekend Night Market, also known as the Old Quarter Night Market, spans 3 km from Đồng Kinh Nghĩa Thục Square to Dong Xuan Market, operating Friday to Sunday from 6:00 PM to midnight. Established in 2003, it features nearly 4,000 stalls across streets like Hàng Đào, Hàng Ngang, and Hàng Đường, offering traditional handicrafts, modern clothing, and Hanoi specialties like chả cá and chè. Cultural performances, including chèo and ca trù on Hàng Buồm, add authenticity, drawing 50,000–100,000 locals and tourists weekly. Eco-friendly initiatives, such as biodegradable utensils and waste management, preserve the market’s charm, making it a vibrant hub steps from Hoan Kiem Lake.

These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$5, offer immersive cultural experiences in Hoan Kiem Ward:

1. Shop for Handcrafted Souvenirs

Browse stalls on Hàng Ngang for silk scarves, lacquerware, or conical hats, best at 7:00 PM, for $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND), supporting local artisans.

• Cost: $1–$5/item.

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with minimal packaging; bring reusable bags.

• Tip: Bargain to 50–75% of the initial price; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Artisan Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Savor Street Food Delights

Taste phở cuốn (rolled pho) or bánh mì at Hàng Bông stalls, best at 8:00 PM, for $0.80–$3 (20,000–75,000 VND).

• Cost: $0.80–$3/dish.

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable bowls; local ingredients.

• Tip: Try chè (sweet dessert) for $1; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Enjoy Cultural Performances

Watch ca trù or folk music on Hàng Buồm, best at 7:30 PM, free, with traditional Vietnamese tunes and dances.

• Cost: Free; tips $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal setup reduces waste; support local artists.

• Tip: Arrive early for front-row views; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$100).

4. Play Traditional Games

Join kéo co (tug-of-war) near Ly Thái Tổ Statue, best at 8:00 PM, free, for a fun, communal experience.

• Cost: Free; optional props $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable game materials; community-led.

• Tip: Engage with local youth groups; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Night Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Capture Night Market Photos

Photograph colorful stalls and illuminated streets on Hàng Đào, best at 8:00 PM, free, for iconic Hanoi memories.

• Cost: Free; optional tripod $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Digital photography reduces waste; ask vendor permission.

• Tip: Use ISO 800 for night shots; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Photography Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

The market operates Friday to Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight, with peak vibrancy from 8:00–10:00 PM (50,000–100,000 visitors). November to April offers cool, dry weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for strolling; the rainy season (May–October) requires rain gear. Fridays are less crowded (20,000–30,000 visitors), while Saturdays/Sundays draw larger crowds (50,000–100,000), especially during Tet (January/February) or Liberation Day (October 10), when festive energy peaks. Arrive before 6:00 PM to secure parking; avoid rush hours (5:00–7:00 PM Friday) for smoother access.

The market spans 3 km in Hoan Kiem Ward, from Đồng Kinh Nghĩa Thục Square (Hoan Kiem Lake) to Dong Xuan Market, covering key streets:

• Hàng Đào Street: Clothing, souvenirs, and performances, best at 7:00 PM, $1–$5 for goods.

• Hàng Ngang Street: Handicrafts and accessories, best at 7:00 PM, $1–$5.

• Hàng Đường Street: Street food and sweets, best at 8:00 PM, $0.80–$3.

• Hàng Buồm Street: Cultural shows and food stalls, best at 7:30 PM, free to $3.

• Dong Xuan Market: Market endpoint with bulk goods, best at 9:00 PM, $1–$5. Cost: Goods $1–$5; food $0.80–$3. Eco-Friendly Note: Support vendors with biodegradable packaging; bring reusable bags. Tip: Save “Hàng Đào, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; busy stalls indicate fresh goods.

Savor these iconic dishes, priced at $0.80–$3 (20,000–75,000 VND), at key stalls:

• Phở Cuốn (Rolled Pho): Fresh rice noodle rolls with beef, Hàng Đường, best at 8:00 PM, $1.50 (37,500 VND). Biodegradable wraps; local herbs.

• Bún Chả (Grilled Pork Noodles): Grilled pork with noodles, Hàng Buồm, best at 7:30 PM, $2–$3 (50,000–75,000 VND). Compostable trays; Hanoi specialty.

• Bánh Mì (Vietnamese Sandwich): Baguette with pate, Hàng Đào, best at 8:00 PM, $1 (25,000 VND). Biodegradable wrapping; fresh veggies.

• Chè (Sweet Dessert Soup): Mung bean or coconut chè, Hàng Đường, best at 9:00 PM, $0.80–$1.50 (20,000–37,500 VND). Reusable cups; local sweets.

• Nem Chua Rán (Fried Fermented Pork): Crispy pork rolls, Hàng Buồm, best at 8:00 PM, $1 (25,000 VND). Biodegradable sticks; street snack.Eco-Friendly Note: Choose vendors with minimal packaging; carry reusable straws ($0.50 or 12,500 VND). Tip: Pair with cà phê sữa đá ($1 or 25,000 VND) for a local vibe.

The market, centered in Hoan Kiem Ward, is reachable in 5–60 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake:

• By Walking: 5–15 minutes within Hoan Kiem Ward (e.g., Hoan Kiem Lake to Hàng Đào, 200m). Free, eco-friendly.

• By Cyclo: From Old Quarter, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND) for 1–2 people, ideal for scenic rides.

• By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): 1–5 km rides (e.g., Ba Đình to Hoan Kiem), 5–10 minutes, $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND). Book via Grab/Xanh SM apps; helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Electric Bus (VinBus): Routes 09, 14, 36 to Lý Thái Tổ or Hàng Bài stops (200m walk), 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–10:30 PM. Use Tìm Buýt app.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Hàng Đào, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Bicycle: Rent from Old Quarter shops ($2–$5/day or 50,000–125,000 VND), 5–10 minutes. Eco-friendly; park at Dong Xuan Market ($0.20–$1.20 or 5,000–30,000 VND).

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people, with parking at Dong Xuan Market or Hàng Đào entrance.

• By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 28 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min), then walk; direct taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Navigation Tip: Save “Hàng Đào, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Hanoi Opera House as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: VinBus or walking reduces emissions; carpool for private cars.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Đào; secure valuables. Confirm fares via apps.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:

• Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes for walking; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: Sunglasses, hat for evening strolls.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/Tìm Buýt apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Shopping Gear: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$2); secure wallet for cash.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable straw ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Notebook for market notes; cash for vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for food ($0.80–$3), souvenirs ($1–$5), or tips ($0.20–$0.50); secure valuables in crowded zones.

Costs for the Weekend Night Market

Shopping and Food Costs

• Souvenirs (e.g., Scarves, Keychains): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Street Food (e.g., Phở, Bánh Mì): $0.80–$3 (20,000–75,000 VND).

• Drinks (Bia Hơi, Coffee): $0.30–$1.50 (7,000–37,500 VND).

• Performance Tips: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).

• Game Props (e.g., Tug-of-War Ropes): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND/day).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Walking: Free.

• Cyclo: $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Xe Ôm: $1.60–$4 (40,000–100,000 VND) for 1–5 km.

• VinBus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Private Car: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Walk: $3.70–$6.40 (92,500–160,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $5–$15 (walking, food, souvenirs).

• Mid-range: $20–$35 (cyclo, shopping, guided tour).

• Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, guided tour, premium purchases).
  Tip: Budget for food ($0.80–$3), souvenirs ($1–$5), and transport ($0.60–$8); carry cash for stalls (some accept mobile payments).

• Timing: Visit 8:00–10:00 PM for peak energy; November–April for dry weather. Fridays are quieter (20,000–30,000 visitors); Saturdays/Sundays busier (50,000–100,000). Arrive before 6:00 PM for parking.

• Booking: No tickets needed; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Buy souvenirs on-site; compare prices across stalls.

• Sustainability: Choose biodegradable food packaging; bring reusable bags. Support artisans on Hàng Ngang for crafts ($1–$5) or Hàng Đường for food ($0.80–$3).

• Navigation: Save “Hàng Đào, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Dong Xuan Market as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Đào; secure valuables in secure bags. Check food freshness at busy stalls; confirm prices before buying.

• Weather: Dry season for comfort; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather for evening conditions.

• Cultural Respect: Greet vendors with “xin chào”; bargain politely (offer 50–75% of initial price). Tip performers ($0.20–$0.50); respect performance spaces.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); carry hand sanitizer. Choose high-turnover stalls for hygiene.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase the Weekend Night Market’s vibrancy:

• Hanoi Night Market Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric cyclo to Hàng Đào, Hàng Buồm, and Dong Xuan at 7:00 PM, with 3–5 food tastings and souvenir shopping. Includes guide, transport.

• Hanoi Nightlife & Culture Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Night market, Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Night market, Ninh Bình’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Hanoi’s Weekend Night Market in Hoan Kiem Ward, a 3-km cultural spectacle stretching from Hoan Kiem Lake to Dong Xuan Market, captivates 50,000–100,000 visitors weekly with nearly 4,000 stalls offering souvenirs like silk scarves and street food such as phở cuốn for $0.80–$5 (20,000–125,000 VND). Eco-friendly practices like biodegradable packaging preserve its historic Thang Long heritage while blending modern vibrancy in the Old Quarter. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you through this bustling hub, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience that’s immersive and responsible. Whether haggling for silk or savoring phở cuốn, the market promises an unforgettable Hanoi adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly cultural journey today!
Ready to explore Hanoi’s Weekend Night Market in Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources:

• Hanoi Weekend Night Market Information: vietnam.travel, vietnamtourism.org.vn, culturetrip.com