Ben Ngu Market
Hue's vibrant central market, a bustling hub for authentic local food, unique souvenirs, and a true taste of Vietnamese daily life.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe
Ben Ngu Market
Best Time
Fewer crowds, relaxed vibe

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hue's vibrant central market, a bustling hub for authentic local food, unique souvenirs, and a true taste of Vietnamese daily life.
"A buzzing, vibrant market located just a short walk from Truong Tien Bridge and right by the Perfume River."
🎯 Try the Local Specialties
Don't miss Bun Bo Hue and other regional dishes. Many vendors offer small portions for tasting!
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Upstairs vendors can be pushy. Be polite but firm, and negotiate prices for clothing and crafts.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Local Culinary Delights
Food section downstairs
Sample authentic Hue specialties like Bun Bo Hue, Banh Beo, and sweet treats. A true taste of Vietnam!

Handicrafts and Souvenirs
Upstairs sections
Find unique conical hats, silks, clothing, and local crafts. Perfect for gifts or personal mementos.

Fresh Produce Galore
Ground floor
Marvel at the colorful displays of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts, and dried goods. A feast for the eyes!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Bargain with a Smile
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Try the Local Specialties
Don't miss Bun Bo Hue and other regional dishes. Many vendors offer small portions for tasting!
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Upstairs vendors can be pushy. Be polite but firm, and negotiate prices for clothing and crafts.
📱 Use Translation Apps
Many sellers don't speak English. A translation app can greatly improve your communication.
🧢 Find Unique Conical Hats
Look for beautifully decorated Non La (conical hats) as authentic souvenirs.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Try the Local Specialties
Don't miss Bun Bo Hue and other regional dishes. Many vendors offer small portions for tasting!
💰 Bargain for Souvenirs
Upstairs vendors can be pushy. Be polite but firm, and negotiate prices for clothing and crafts.
📱 Use Translation Apps
Many sellers don't speak English. A translation app can greatly improve your communication.
🧢 Find Unique Conical Hats
Look for beautifully decorated Non La (conical hats) as authentic souvenirs.
☕ Grab a Local Coffee
Enjoy a refreshing Vietnamese coffee at one of the market's cafes.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Dong Ba Market is a bustling, vibrant hub offering a true taste of Hue's local life and culinary delights. Visitors praise the incredible variety of food and goods, from fresh produce to souvenirs. However, some shoppers find the upstairs vendors overly pushy, and navigating the crowds can be intense during peak hours.
"🛍️ Dong Ba Market – Busy and fun to explore
I visited around 11am to walk around and have lunch. There’s a lot to see, lots of local food, and plenty of things. Worth a quick visit if you’re in Hue!"
Virginia Lio
"This is an amazing market, seems everything is here, quite big! Upstairs are clothing, bags and silks. We don’t have a very good experience up there, they were very pushy! A lady meet us on the stairs asking us to have a look at her clothing, told her we’re not looking anything in particular just having a look around. But she won’t have it, they will put anything you might be interested in your face! She was getting rude when I wasn’t buying. Price start really high!
Another woman won’t let you passed by until they shoved anything they’re selling on your face! They repeat what you saying in a rude way!
Downstairs all food, plenty of dry fruits, nuts, anything you can think of and in all different sections. Quite pleasant to look around here because they won’t bother you that much unless you ask! Helpful to have google for translation, most of sellers won’t understand English. Great experience."
LALAAG ADVENTURES
"A buzzing, vibrant market located just a short walk from Trường Tiền Bridge and right by the Perfume River. If you’re looking to experience the real hustle and bustle of Huế, this is the spot to hit especially towards the last for hours before closing.
Inside, you’ll find everything from fresh fruit and local snacks to handmade hats, clothing, shoes, and souvenirs. The variety is impressive, and the atmosphere is very local, energetic and noisy. It can get pretty crowded and intense, especially in the late afternoon.
This is the perfect place to grab local specialties or last-minute gifts.
The market closes around 7:00 PM, so it’s best to visit in the morning or late afternoon. It’s a must-see spot in Huế."
John Winter
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Dong Ba Market is conveniently located in the city center of Hue, right by the Perfume River and a short walk from Truong Tien Bridge. You can easily reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or even on foot if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it a central point for exploring Hue.
While there isn't a dedicated bus stop directly at the market, local buses do pass through the general area of Hue's city center. Taxis and Grab are the most straightforward options for direct access.
The market is quite large and can be overwhelming. It's best to explore section by section. Start downstairs for food and produce, then head upstairs for clothing and souvenirs. Don't be afraid to wander and discover hidden gems.
Yes, there is parking available for motorbikes and cars near the market. However, it can get very busy, especially during peak hours.
Absolutely! Dong Ba Market is within walking distance of Truong Tien Bridge and many hotels in the city center, making it an easy addition to your walking tour of Hue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Dong Ba Market is a public market and does not require an entrance ticket. You can freely explore its bustling aisles and vibrant atmosphere.
Dong Ba Market is typically open daily from early morning until around 7:00 PM. The food stalls are most active during the day, while the upstairs sections may close slightly earlier.
For a less crowded experience, aim to visit in the morning. The market becomes significantly busier and more energetic in the late afternoon and evening.
Dong Ba Market is generally open seven days a week. However, it's always a good idea to check for any local holiday closures if your visit coincides with a Vietnamese festival.
No, all sections of Dong Ba Market are free to enter. Any costs incurred will be for the food you eat or the goods you purchase.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You absolutely must try the local specialty, Bun Bo Hue (Hue beef noodle soup). Other popular choices include Banh Beo (steamed rice cakes), Nem Lui (lemongrass skewers), and various sweet soups and desserts.
Food prices are very affordable. You can enjoy a delicious meal for as little as 100,000 VND (around $4 USD) for multiple dishes. Individual items like Banh Beo or small snacks can cost as little as 10,000-15,000 VND.
While the market is known for its meat dishes, you can find some vegetarian options like fresh fruits, vegetable spring rolls, and some noodle dishes that can be made without meat. It's best to ask or use a translation app.
Yes, many food stalls have small seating areas in front of them, allowing you to enjoy your freshly prepared meal right there.
Point to what you want, use a translation app, or look for vendors who might have English menus or pictures. Many vendors are accustomed to tourists and will try to assist you.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant colors of the fresh produce, the bustling activity of shoppers and vendors, and the unique architecture of the market. The food stalls offer great close-up shots.
It's generally acceptable to take photos, especially of the food and general market scenes. However, it's always polite to ask permission before taking close-up portraits of individuals.
Morning light can be softer and less crowded, offering clearer shots. However, the vibrant energy and activity in the late afternoon can also make for dramatic and engaging photographs.
The colorful conical hats, the intricate displays of spices and dried goods, and the steaming bowls of Bun Bo Hue are all highly photogenic.
A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the market's atmosphere. If you have a camera, a versatile lens that can handle both wide shots and close-ups will be very useful.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For souvenirs, look for smaller, easily transportable items like decorated conical hats or small trinkets. Be mindful of the crowds, especially in the late afternoon, and keep a close eye on children. If shopping upstairs, be prepared for persistent vendors and perhaps steer clear of intense bargaining with younger children present. Consider visiting in the morning for a more relaxed experience.
💰 Budget Travelers
For shopping, be prepared to haggle for the best prices on souvenirs and clothing. Don't be afraid to walk away if the price isn't right. The market offers a fantastic opportunity to buy local products at local prices, making it ideal for stocking up on gifts or personal items.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Taste of Hue: Culinary Adventures at Dong Ba Market
Beyond the main dishes, explore the market for unique local ingredients and treats. You can find an abundance of fresh fruits, fragrant herbs, dried seafood, and traditional Vietnamese sweets. Don't miss the chance to try Che, a sweet dessert soup with various ingredients like beans, fruits, and jellies. For those seeking a caffeine fix, there are also small cafes within the market serving strong Vietnamese coffee.
When navigating the food stalls, be prepared for a lively atmosphere. While most vendors are friendly, communication can sometimes be a barrier. Using a translation app or simply pointing to what looks delicious is a common and effective strategy. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making it possible to enjoy a full and satisfying meal for just a few dollars.
Shopping for Treasures: From Souvenirs to Daily Necessities
Be aware that the vendors in these upstairs sections can sometimes be quite persistent. Visitors have noted that they can be very pushy, so it's important to be firm yet polite if you're not interested in purchasing. Bargaining is expected, and prices can often be negotiated down from the initial asking price. Having a translation app handy can be useful for clarifying prices and making your point.
Beyond souvenirs, the market is also a place where locals shop for daily necessities. You'll find stalls selling kitchenware, household items, and a vast array of dry goods. The sheer variety ensures that you can find almost anything you're looking for, making it a truly comprehensive shopping experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit