Explore Halong Bay Night Market: Shopping, Food, and Fun

When visiting Ha Long, one destination that simply cannot be missed is the Halong Bay Night Market. This bustling market is a hotspot for both locals and tourists, offering a plethora of shopping and dining experiences. Whether you are searching for unique souvenirs, tasting delectable local street food, or simply soaking in the vibrant atmosphere, the Halong Bay Night Market has something for everyone. Sun Getaways Travel will give you some must-buy items and provide useful tips to enhance your shopping tour.

1. Introduction

Halong Bay Night Market situated in the heart of Ha Long City, Halong Bay Night Market, also known as Bai Chay Quang Ninh Night Market, is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area. Here, visitors can experience the vibrant local culture and enjoy a lively shopping atmosphere. The market is conveniently located at Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Hung Thang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province.

The Ha Long City Night Market operates from 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm from Friday to Sunday. However, the most bustling time is between 8:00 pm to 10:00 pm, when the market comes alive with hundreds of visitors. Covering an area of 5000 square meters, the market features 335 stalls offering a wide variety of products including souvenirs, food, clothes, and local specialties.

• Address: Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Hung Thang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province
• Opening hours: 5.00 pm – 11.00 pm from Friday to Sunday

The Halong Bay Night Market Vietnam is an exciting place to explore, especially if you are keen to experience the local culture first-hand. Whether you are a foodie, a shopaholic, or someone simply wanting to soak up the local vibes, the Halong Bay Night Market travel should be an essential part of your itinerary.

• You can read more: Ha Long Bay: How to Visit & Things to Do

2. Top 3 Dishes at Halong Bay Night Market

Halong Bay Night Market is not only famous for its vibrant shopping experience but also for its diverse and delicious food offerings. Here are some top dishes that you should definitely try:

2.1 Seafood Dishes

When at the Halong Bay Night Market, visiting stalls and vendors selling seafood is a must. Every dish is prepared using various methods such as deep frying, pan frying, grilling, boiling, and steaming. These seafood dishes are served with specific sauces that exalt their taste and aroma.

Seafood is a staple in the Halong Bay market, and some popular items include grilled squids, steamed prawns, and sautéed clams. The freshness of the seafood, combined with the unique local cooking techniques, makes this an unforgettable culinary experience.

2.2 Squid Cake with Steamed Rice Rolls

Another must-try dish at the Ha Long City Night Market is the squid cake with steamed rice rolls. This special dish is unique to Ha Long and cannot be found elsewhere in Vietnam. Unlike other Northern provinces where steamed rice rolls are typically eaten with pork cake, Ha Long serves this dish with chewy squid cake.

The squid cakes are first grounded, then molded, and deep-fried until they achieve a golden-brown color and an irresistible aroma. Served with steamed rice rolls, this dish offers a unique taste sensation that you cannot miss.

2.3 Street Foods

Besides seafood and squid cake, Halong Bay Night Market Vietnam is also a paradise for street food lovers. You can enjoy a variety of snacks such as Vietnamese water drift cake, mussel porridge, Ha Long pearl yogurt, and pillow cake.

One of the key highlights of street food at the night market is that most dishes are sold at very reasonable prices. This makes it an ideal place for foodies to explore a multitude of flavors without breaking the bank.

3. Top Buys at Halong Bay Night Market

3.1 Souvenirs and Handicrafts

One of the most popular sections in the Halong Bay Night Market is the souvenir area. Here, you will find a variety of handicrafts, necklaces, bracelets, pictures, toys, and other unique items. Most of the handicrafts sold at this market are meticulously made from sea snail shells, showcasing the artisans’ skill and creativity.

3.2 Ha Long Specialties

When you stroll through the specialty section of the Ha Long City Night Market, you’ll find it easy to pick up unique gifts and local specialties for your family and friends. Some of Ha Long’s must-buy specialties include dried squid, tamarind squid, yellowstripe scad, bird’s nest, and dried seahorse.

3.3 Brocade Products

Another must-visit area within the Halong Bay Night Market Vietnam is the brocade product section. Here, visitors can admire and purchase beautiful brocade clothes and bags in various colors and designs. The average price for these exquisite products is about 200,000 VND per item.

From meticulously crafted souvenirs and local specialties to vibrant brocade products, the Halong Bay Night Market travel experience offers a treasure trove of items that will make your shopping tour truly memorable.

• You can read more: How to get to Halong Bay from Hanoi? Your Ultimate Guide

4. Some Helpful Tips at Halong Bay Night Market

• Bargain Smartly: Bargaining is a common practice at the Halong Bay market. Vendors often expect customers to haggle, and it’s a good idea to negotiate to get the best price. A friendly and polite approach often works best, so don’t be afraid to engage in a bit of friendly negotiation.
• Know How to Pick Fresh Seafood: If you’re planning to purchase seafood, having some basic knowledge about how to pick fresh seafood can be very helpful. Fresh seafood typically has a clean, ocean-like smell, clear eyes (if it’s fish), and firm flesh. 
• Compare Prices: Before you buy anything, it’s wise to visit multiple stalls to compare prices. This can help you get a better sense of the general pricing and avoid overpaying.
• Wear Comfortable Shoes: The Ha Long City Night Market spans a large area, and it can get quite crowded, especially during peak hours. To ensure a comfortable shopping experience, be sure to wear comfortable shoes. 
• During the peak season, the Halong Bay Night Market Vietnam can get very busy. It’s important to stay vigilant and keep an eye on your personal belongings and valuables. Crowded areas can sometimes attract pickpockets, so keep your bags and pockets secured.
• Check the Weather: Lastly, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before heading to the Halong Bay Night Market. An unexpected rain can put a damper on your shopping experience.

5. Tourist Attractions Near Halong Bay Night Market

Sun World Halong Complex:  A short distance from the Ha Long City Night Market, the Sun World Halong Complex is a massive amusement park that offers fun and excitement for all ages. With its picturesque setting and a wide range of activities, Sun World Halong Complex is an ideal place for families and adventure seekers looking to add a bit of thrill to their vacation.

Bai Chay Beach: Not far from the Halong Bay market, Bai Chay Beach is a beautiful coastal area that provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and recreation.

Halong Bay Cruise: One of the most iconic experiences near the Halong Bay Night Market Vietnam is a cruise on Halong Bay itself. These excursions allow visitors to explore the magnificent limestone karsts, visit caves, and enjoy breathtaking vistas of the bay.

Quang Ninh Museum and Library: Located a short drive from the Halong Bay Night Market travel, Quang Ninh Museum and Library is a striking building known for its modern architecture and informative exhibits. 

Tuan Chau Island: Tuan Chau Island is another fantastic destination near the Halong Bay Night Market. This island features luxury resorts, entertainment complexes, and a beautiful beach.

You can explore this article when you travel in Halong Bay:

• Halong Bay Kayaking: An Adventure for Nature Enthusiasts
• Explore Top 5 Halong Bay Islands Most Stunning: A Journey to Paradise

6. Conclusion

The Halong Bay Night Market is a must-visit for its vibrant culture, delicious food, and unique shopping. Food lovers will find seafood, Squid Cake with Steamed Rice Rolls, and street foods. Shoppers can buy souvenirs, Ha Long specialties, and brocade products. Tips like bargaining, choosing fresh seafood, and wearing comfy shoes will help.

The market offers a unique experience of Ha Long’s culture and tradition with a lively atmosphere and delicious food smells. Visitors can discover new flavors, friendly vendors, and perfect souvenirs. Adding the Halong Bay Night Market to your trip is highly recommended. It suits food lovers, shoppers, and those wanting to experience local culture.

For a seamless and well-rounded travel experience, consider booking your Halong Bay tour packages or accommodation through Sun Getaways Travel. With a variety of options that cater to different interests and budgets, Sun Getaways Facebook ensures that your visit to Ha Long, including the Halong Bay Night Market travel, is both comprehensive and enjoyable. Some tours visitors can explore below: