Nestled in the heart of the historic city of Hue, Dong Ba Market has not only witnessed the ebb and flow of time but has also become a living testament to the rich cultural tapestry and dynamic commerce that defines this ancient capital.

Join us as we discover the unique charm that sets Dong Ba Market apart. As we step beyond its exterior facade, the true spectacle unfolds within—a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and scents that leave visitors utterly captivated. So without further ado, let’s dive right in!

Where is Dong Ba Market in Hue?

The Dong Ba Market is located at 2 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Hoa, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam. It was formerly named Quy Gia Thi Market, to mark the return of the Nguyen Dynasty's King to Phu Xuan. Around 1887, during the reign of King Dong Khanh, it was officially renamed Dong Ba Market.

Positioned between Gia Hoi Bridge and Truong Tien Bridge, Dong Ba appears like any other typical market when viewed from the outside. However, upon entering, you will be truly amazed by its vibrancy. Dong Ba Market is not just a place for regular business activities; it also holds a rich and longstanding history that reflects the diverse culture of the people of Hue.

The History of Dong Ba Market in Hue

Dong Ba Market was established during the reign of King Gia Long. In its early days, the market was located outside the Chanh Dong Gate (one of the 10 gates of the Hue Citadel). However, following the Battle of Hue Imperial City in 1885, Dong Ba Market was burnt down by the French colonialists. Two years later, around 1887, King Dong Khanh initiated the reconstruction of the market and named it Dong Ba Market.

Subsequently, in 1899, under the rule and decision of King Thanh Thai, Dong Ba Market in Hue was relocated to its current position. Despite over a century of formation and development, the market is still able to maintain its unique characteristics.

In 1987, the authorities of Binh Tri Thien province undertook a major renovation of Dong Ba Market. The project included upgrading the bell tower, constructing four two-story buildings at the market's corners, and adding five rows of stalls with new, spacious areas, with a total construction area of 15,600 square meters.

What’s to see at Dong Ba Market?

As of 2020, the entire market has over 2,700 stalls and more than 1,800 business households allocated in six areas covering 22,749 square meters. The market offers around 60 product categories; everything is rather affordable. The daily footfall at the market is approximately 7,000-10,000 people. Dong Ba Market has a total of 3 floors.

First floor: The first floor is where fresh seafood and dried goods are sold. You will find plenty of stalls selling different types of fish sauce: Cô Ri fish sauce, sour fish sauce, shrimp paste, Nêm fish sauce, etc. The sellers are enthusiastic and will let you have a sample of the sauce before buying. The first floor is the perfect place to shop for delicious snacks and specialties from Hue to bring back as gifts for friends and family.

Second floor: On the second floor, you will discover different handicrafts and handmade gifts. There are finely crafted products like conical hats; pottery, including clay pots, bowls, and plates; and items made from bamboo, like baskets, mats, beds, or hammocks.

Third floor: On this floor, you can find stalls selling fabrics and clothing. If you have visited Hue, you’ll probably want to tailor a traditional "ao dai" for yourself. The third floor is the place to buy excellent fabrics for making "ao dai." There are a bunch of patterns and standout designs for you to choose from. You can also ask the sellers for advice to pick the right fabric.

Outside the market: Other than the three floors of Dong Ba Market, the outer area also offers a variety of goods. Outside, people typically sell suitcases, electronics, fruits, flowers, vegetables and more. You name it, they’ve got it. There are also many street food carts with delicious and affordable dishes to try out!

Dong Ba Market Food

It's no surprise that Dong Ba Market won the hearts of so many people because the market can be considered a culinary paradise in Hue. Most of the food stalls in Dong Ba Market are small ones with simple plastic tables and chairs, nothing fancy, but the food is top-notch and, not to mention, super cheap!

Hue Grilled Pork Rolls (Nem Lui)

First and foremost, you must try "nem lui," a distinctive dish of the Central region. It is served with fresh vegetables and rice paper, dipped in rich and flavorful fish sauce. Each serving for two people costs only around 50,000 VND, incredibly affordable.

Hue Beef Noodle Soup (Bun Bo Hue)

This dish needs no introduction, but rest assured that a bowl of Bun Bo in Hue is going to be different compared to the ones you’ve had in Hanoi or other regions. The price for a bowl of Bun Bo Hue is approximately 15,000 - 20,000 VND per bowl. Crazy, right?

Nam Pho Thick Noodle Soup (Banh Canh Nam Pho)

This is a specialty originating from Nam Pho village, with thick, soft, and chewy noodle strands made from rice flour and tapioca flour. The broth, made with shrimp, is an orange-red color, and the dish is served with pork sausage, creating a simple yet delicious dish. A bowl of Banh Canh Nam Pho is only 30,000 VND.

Banh Bot Loc

When in Hue, it would be a pity not to have a taste of "Banh Bot Loc." In the Ancient Capital City, this dish is elaborately prepared, offering a unique flavor that leaves a lasting impression. A sufficient portion to satisfy your hunger costs from 20,000 to 30,000 VND, depending on each person's appetite.

Banh Nam

Banh Nam is made from rice flour, rolled thinly, and wrapped in dong leaves. The filling is a combination of minced pork, chopped shrimp, and spring onions. Taking a bite, you will be captivated by the richness of the rice, the sweet and spicy fish sauce, and the sweetness of the meat filling.

Price: From 8,000 VND/bowl.

Banh Beo

Banh Beo is also made from tapioca starch and rice flour, then steamed in tiny bowls. The filling consists of dried shrimp, minced pork fat, pork skin, and fried shallots, seasoned to perfection.

Price: From 5,000 VND/bowl

Hue Sweet Soup (Che Hue)

The sweet soup shops at Dong Ba Market are simple, with various types of sweet soup ingredients displayed in trays and pots. You can choose whatever you want and pay accordingly. Hue sweet soup is known for its mildsweetness, which is not overpowering, and is often served with coconut milk.

FAQs: Dong Ba Market in Hue

1. Opening Hours and Best Time to Visit

03:00 AM - 08:00 PM (the best time to eat is in the morning or at lunch.)

It's often very hot in Hue in the summer. You should prioritize visiting the tombs and pagodas in the morning and visiting Dong Ba Market in the afternoon to avoid the sun. Usually, in the morning at Dong Ba Market, they sell fruits, vegetables, and fresh produce. Therefore, in the morning, you may not find much to buy. If you want to visit the food court in Dong Ba Market, go between 08:00 AM and 11:00 PM because they usually close after lunch. If you want to shop in the afternoon, 03:00 PM is a great time; it’s not too crowded, and it's easier to haggle.

If you visit Dong Ba Market in the morning, avoid haggling without making a purchase. It’s a no-go not just in Hue but in pretty much any other market in Vietnam.

2. How to Get to Dong Ba Market 

If you take the bus, they will drop you off at a stop only about 200 meters from the market, about a 3-minute walk.

If you’re going by car or motorcycle, you can park at the market’s gate for 30,000 VND/car and 5,000 VND/motorcycle.

You can opt for a Hue tour provided by a local travel agency, which usually includes a visit to Dong Ba Market.

3. What is The Most Popular Market in Vietnam?

Dong Ba Market is the most well-known market in Hue and definitely one of the most famous markets in Vietnam, along with Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, Ben Thanh Market in Saigon, and Bac Ha Market in Lao Cai.

4. Are There Other Night Markets in Hue?

Yes. Other than Dong Ba Night Market, there are a few other night markets in Hue for you to explore.

Hue Night Market

• Address: 01 Pham Ngu Lao, Hue (Western Quarter)
• Opening hours: 04:00 PM - 11:00 PM

The Hue Night Market used to be located in a Big C, but it has now been relocated to the Western Quarter (Pham Ngu Lao Street). It’s a gathering place for many people for entertainment and shopping. They also regularly hold various events such as music programs, game shows, and weekend events.

Nguyen Dinh Chieu Pedestrian Street

• Address: Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Phu Hoi, Hue
• Opening Hours: 04:00 PM - 10:00 PM everyday

It’s located right in the city center, close to the Perfume River and next to Trang Tien Bridge. You can have a stroll with friends to admire the view, shop, or enjoy Hue specialties right here. There are also spontaneous art performances and people who offer to paint you.
 

=> What to do during your trip to Hue ?