Have you ever immersed yourself in the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of Vietnam’s bustling night markets? More than just places for shopping and enjoying street food, night markets are an integral part of Vietnamese culture and spiritual life. From North to South, each night market carries its own unique characteristics, reflecting the distinct cultural identity of each region. Join “Du lịch khắp thế gian” (Travel Around The World) to explore the most bustling night markets in Vietnam, where you can fully experience the lively and diverse nightlife of this S-shaped country.
Phu Quoc Night Market – The Bustling Symbol of Pearl Island
Phu Quoc is not only famous for its beautiful beaches but also a paradise of vibrant night markets. Among them, Phu Quoc Night Market, also known as Bach Dang Night Market, is a must-visit destination when you set foot on the pearl island.
Prime Location of Phu Quoc Night Market
Overview of Phu Quoc Night Market
Phu Quoc Night Market is located in the heart of Duong Dong town, right at the intersection of bustling Bach Dang, Ly Tu Trong, and Le Loi streets. Previously known as Dinh Cau Night Market, located near Dinh Cau on Vo Thi Sau street, it was relocated and merged to its current location in September 2017 to improve operational efficiency.
With its convenient location, Bach Dang night market easily attracts domestic and international tourists. Just arrive at Duong Dong roundabout, and you will immediately feel the bustling and vibrant atmosphere of hundreds of stalls selling all kinds of specialties and souvenirs.
Bustling Operating Hours
Phu Quoc Night Market lights up from 6:00 PM every day and operates until about 11:30 PM, and may even last longer during peak tourist season or holidays. Many stalls start preparing and selling from 3:00 PM or 4:00 PM, especially on weekends or during peak tourist season.
The busiest and most vibrant time at the night market is from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM, when crowds flock to visit, shop, and enjoy the food. After 10:00 PM, the atmosphere is still lively, but the number of visitors gradually decreases. Phu Quoc Night Market is open every day of the week, including holidays, serving the entertainment and shopping needs of tourists. However, the market is not open during the day and does not operate overnight.
Irresistible Charm of Phu Quoc Night Market
Various food stalls and crowds at Phu Quoc Night Market
Phu Quoc night market is not just a trading place but also a distinctive cultural symbol of the pearl island. With hundreds of diverse stalls, the market becomes an ideal destination to explore unique culinary flavors, find local specialties, and feel the vibrant rhythm of islanders’ life. Every night, the night market attracts thousands of visitors, especially during holidays and weekends, which can reach 5,000 – 10,000 people.
The most attractive point of the night market is the harmony of food, shopping, and entertainment space. Here, you can enjoy countless attractive street food dishes, from fresh seafood, dishes made from the special coconut sáp, to fragrant grilled dishes such as grilled squid, banh khot (mini savory pancakes), and herring salad… The market is also an ideal place to find Phu Quoc specialty products such as pepper, pearls, handicrafts made from shells, and many other unique souvenirs.
The bustling and vibrant atmosphere at night with shimmering lights, cheerful laughter, and street music… creates a lively and friendly space, bringing a wonderful relaxing experience after a long day of exploring the pearl island.
Explore Other Famous Night Markets in Phu Quoc
Besides Phu Quoc Night Market, the pearl island also boasts many other vibrant night markets, each with its own unique flavor, promising unique shopping and culinary experiences.
Bai Truong Night Market – Seafood Culinary Paradise
Seafood displayed at Bai Truong Night Market in Phu Quoc
Bai Truong Night Market is located in Sonasea walking street, Duong To commune, operating from 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily. This is one of the largest and most distinctive night markets in Phu Quoc, divided into two main areas: a food court and a shopping area with over 100 stalls.
The food court is the highlight of Bai Truong Night Market, attracting many tourists with the diversity and freshness of seafood. You can enjoy fresh seafood dishes such as grilled cobia fish, crab, squid, along with Phu Quoc specialties such as crab noodle soup, crab rice, and coconut sáp.
Grilled seafood and food stalls at Bai Truong Night Market
Although seafood prices at the market are slightly higher than in other areas, the quality is always guaranteed, with fresh seafood being processed on the spot, bringing the typical sea flavor. The average price for a seafood meal at the market ranges from 100,000 to 500,000 VND, depending on the type and size of seafood.
The shopping area is also equally attractive with unique handicraft products, pearl jewelry, Phu Quoc specialties such as fish sauce, sim wine, dried seafood, and souvenirs imbued with local identity.
Detailed information:
- Address: Sonasea walking street, Duong To commune, Phu Quoc district
- Opening hours: 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM
Vui-Fest Phu Quoc Night Market – Unique Cultural Experience
Performers and crowd at Vui-Fest Phu Quoc Night Market
Vui-Fest Night Market (VUI-Fest Bazaar) is a new destination, opened at the end of 2023, located within the Sunset Town campus, a prominent resort and entertainment area in the Southwest of the island. More than just a night market, Vui-Fest is also the first beachfront entertainment center in Vietnam.
With over 40 stalls, Vui-Fest focuses on handicrafts, souvenirs, and specialties from all over Vietnam. You can find unique gifts such as paintings, handmade wooden items, and typical OCOP products. Vietnam Select supermarket is a highlight, offering typical Vietnamese products, from food to household goods.
Stalls selling handicrafts and souvenirs at Vui-Fest Phu Quoc Night Market
Cuisine at Vui-Fest brings the street flavors of the three regions of North, Central, and South with attractive snacks such as bun cha Hanoi, pandan leaf porridge from the South, fresh seafood, and many other specialties. Prices here are quite reasonable, from 30,000 VND to 150,000 VND per dish, suitable for many types of tourists.
Detailed information:
- Address: along the western coast of Sunset Town
- Opening hours: 4:00 PM to 12:00 AM
Grand World Phu Quoc Night Market – Colorful Entertainment Space
Aerial view of Grand World Phu Quoc Night Market at night
Grand World Phu Quoc Night Market is located in the Grand World entertainment complex within Phu Quoc United Center, one of the largest entertainment super-complexes in Vietnam. This is a large-scale night market with 138 stalls, including 100 food stalls, open from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM daily, ideal for those who want to enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Phu Quoc.
Food stalls and seating areas at Grand World Phu Quoc Night Market
Grand World Night Market stands out with diverse cuisine, from Phu Quoc specialties to international street food. You can enjoy fresh seafood such as steamed squid with fish sauce, grilled scallops, fried breaded shrimp, herring salad, banh kheo (mini savory pancakes), and coconut sáp with jaggery… Seafood at the market is caught daily, ensuring freshness.
Performers in traditional costumes at Grand World Phu Quoc Night Market
In particular, Grand World Night Market is also the venue for large-scale art programs such as Carnival parades, Bikini Dance shows, and unique cultural performances every Saturday and Sunday evening.
Detailed information:
- Address: Indochine Quarter, Grand World, Bai Dai, Ganh Dau Commune, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province.
- Opening hours: 4:00 PM – 2:00 AM
Listing Bustling Night Markets Across Vietnam
Not only Phu Quoc, but Vietnam also has many other famous night markets, each market carrying a unique cultural and culinary color, attracting tourists from all over the world.
Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market – Capital Cultural Features
Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market stretches along Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, Hang Duong streets, extending to Dong Xuan market. The market operates on weekend evenings (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. This is not only a shopping market but also a cultural space, where traditional art activities such as xam singing and ca tru take place, creating the typical atmosphere of ancient Hanoi.
Coming to the Old Quarter Night Market, you can find a variety of products from clothes, shoes, handicrafts, souvenirs to rich street food such as pho cuon (fresh spring rolls with beef), bun oc (snail noodle soup), tao pho (tofu pudding), and nem lui (lemongrass skewers)… The night market is a favorite destination for both locals and international tourists, offering an exciting nighttime exploration experience of Hanoi.
Da Lat Night Market – Romantic Highland Space
Da Lat Night Market, also known as Cho Am Phu (Underworld Market), is located right in the center of Da Lat city, operating from 6:00 PM until late at night. The market is not only a shopping place but also a symbol of Da Lat at night. The typical cool air of Da Lat further enhances the appeal of the night market.
Coming to Da Lat Night Market, you will be overwhelmed by countless specialties such as grilled rice paper, hot soy milk, grilled skewers, and lau bo ba toa (beef hot pot)… In addition, the market also sells woolen products, handicrafts, fresh fruits, and souvenirs imbued with Da Lat’s essence. Da Lat Night Market is a must-visit destination when you want to experience the romantic atmosphere and unique cuisine of the city of thousands of flowers.
Hoi An Night Market – Ancient Beauty by the Hoai River
Hoi An Night Market is located on Nguyen Hoang street, on the other side of the Hoai River, operating from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily. The market has an ancient and shimmering beauty with colorful lanterns. The space of Hoi An night market is both bustling and romantic, creating a special attraction.
At Hoi An Night Market, you can find handicrafts, silk, leather goods, lanterns, souvenirs… Hoi An night market cuisine is also very diverse with specialties such as cao lau (Hoi An noodles), mi quang (Quang noodles), banh bao banh vac (white rose dumplings), and nem lui (lemongrass skewers)… Strolling in Hoi An night market, you will feel the traditional cultural beauty and charm of the ancient town at night.
Nha Trang Night Market – Sea Flavors
Nha Trang Night Market is located on Tran Phu street, near 2/4 Square, operating from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM daily. Nha Trang night market carries a strong sea atmosphere with stalls selling fresh seafood, sea souvenirs, and handicraft products from shells.
Nha Trang night market cuisine is famous for grilled seafood, bun cha ca (fish cake noodle soup), nem nuong Ninh Hoa (Ninh Hoa grilled sausage), banh can (mini savory pancakes), and banh xeo (crispy pancake)… You can enjoy fresh seafood at affordable prices right at the market. Nha Trang night market is an ideal destination to experience sea cuisine and shop for souvenirs when visiting this beautiful coastal city.
Unique Cuisine at Phu Quoc Night Market
Phu Quoc is not only beautiful scenery but also famous for its diverse and unique cuisine. Here are 5 unique dishes you should not miss when coming to Phu Quoc night market.
Coconut Sáp with Jaggery – Refreshing Deliciousness
Coconut sáp with jaggery, a popular dessert in Phu Quoc Night Market
Coconut sáp with jaggery is a must-try snack when coming to Phu Quoc night market. The dish is made from fresh coconut sáp, thick and soft flesh, combined with jaggery, a specialty fruit of the Mekong Delta. All are mixed with coconut milk, condensed milk, and shaved ice, creating a delicious, creamy, and refreshing dish. Crispy and soft jaggery combined with coconut sáp creates a special and addictive flavor.
The price for each serving of coconut sáp with jaggery is about 40,000 – 50,000 VND, very reasonable for a nutritious snack and a great thirst quencher on a Phu Quoc summer night.
Phu Quoc Grilled Sausage (Nem Nuong) – Rich Flavor
Grilled Phu Quoc Sausage (Nem Nuong) on skewers
Nem nuong (grilled sausage) is a typical dish of Phu Quoc night market street food. Nem is made from fresh minced pork, mixed with spices, garlic, pepper, sugar, shaped into small lengths and grilled over charcoal until golden brown and fragrant. Nem nuong is served with fresh raw vegetables such as lettuce, basil, fish mint, and rice paper rolls, creating a meal that is both rich and refreshing.
The price of nem nuong at Phu Quoc night market is quite reasonable, only from 20,000 VND to 50,000 VND per serving, depending on the place. With its affordable price and rich flavor, nem nuong is always a favorite choice of tourists.
Banh Bo Thot Not (Jaggery Honeycomb Cake) – Sweet and Delicate Taste
Banh bo thot not (Jaggery honeycomb cake), a sweet treat at Phu Quoc Night Market
Banh bo thot not (jaggery honeycomb cake) is a typical snack not to be missed at Phu Quoc night market. The cake is made from jaggery juice, a natural ingredient popular in Phu Quoc, with a special delicate sweetness. Banh bo thot not has a dark brown color, soft and spongy texture, steamed in small molds, usually served with shredded dried coconut. The combination of jaggery sweetness and coconut aroma creates a dish with a strong Mekong Delta imprint.
The price of banh bo thot not at Phu Quoc night market ranges from 15,000 to 20,000 VND per serving. This is a cheap but attractive and easily “addictive” snack.
Phu Quoc Mackerel Fish Cake (Cha Ca Thu) – Seafood Specialty
Fried Phu Quoc Mackerel Fish Cake (Cha Ca Thu) on display
Cha ca thu (mackerel fish cake) Phu Quoc is an attractive specialty not to be missed when coming to the night market. Cha is made from fresh and delicious mackerel, minced, mixed with spices, rolled into balls and then fried or grilled until golden brown. The natural sweetness of mackerel combined with special spices creates a particularly delicious flavor.
Cha ca thu is usually served with vermicelli noodles, raw vegetables, and sweet and sour fish sauce. The price of cha ca thu at Phu Quoc night market ranges from 30,000 – 50,000 VND, depending on the serving and preparation method. Cha ca thu is not only delicious but also a culinary symbol of Phu Quoc island.
Buy Phu Quoc Specialties as Gifts at the Night Market
Phu Quoc night market is an ideal place to buy specialties as gifts. Here are some suggestions for unique gifts from the pearl island.
Ham Ninh Forest Sim Wine – Unique Flavor
Ham Ninh forest sim wine is the most famous and popular specialty at Phu Quoc night market. The wine is made from ripe purple sim fruits picked from the Ham Ninh natural forest, with a sweet, slightly sour, fragrant, eye-catching color, and low alcohol content (10% – 15%), easy to drink.
The price of Ham Ninh forest sim wine at Phu Quoc night market is about 150,000 VND to 200,000 VND for a 500ml bottle. This is a meaningful gift for relatives and friends.
Phu Quoc Fish Sauce – Sea Essence
Bottles of Phu Quoc fish sauce, a local specialty
Phu Quoc fish sauce is produced using traditional methods from fresh anchovies caught in Phu Quoc waters. Anchovies here have a rich flavor, yielding fragrant fish sauce with high protein content (30 – 45 degrees of protein).
Famous fish sauce brands at Phu Quoc night market include Phung Hung, Khai Hoan, and Ong Ky fish sauce, priced from 50,000 VND to 400,000 VND/liter, depending on the protein content and brand. Phu Quoc fish sauce is a great seasoning and a gift imbued with the flavor of the sea.
ChouChou Peanuts – French-Vietnamese Flavor
Various flavors of ChouChou peanuts, a unique Phu Quoc snack
ChouChou peanuts are a unique specialty of Phu Quoc, combining the flavor of Vietnamese peanuts and French processing techniques. Peanuts are carefully selected, marinated, and roasted using traditional methods, crispy, fragrant, and rich in flavor.
At Phu Quoc night market, you can easily find ChouChou peanuts with over 30 diverse flavors such as caramel, strawberry, mango, passion fruit, durian, mint, and wasabi cheese. The price per jar ranges from 30,000 VND to 150,000 VND, depending on the weight and flavor.
Tips for Bargaining Prices When Shopping at Night Markets
Shoppers bargaining with a vendor at Phu Quoc Night Market
Phu Quoc night market is an ideal destination to buy unique gifts. However, to buy satisfactory items at good prices, you need to know how to bargain. Here are some useful tips:
Research Product Prices
Before going to the night market, you should research the prices of Phu Quoc specialties to have reference information. For example, Phu Quoc forest sim wine usually costs from 200,000 to 350,000 VND per bottle, and Phu Quoc fish sauce from 50,000 VND to 100,000 VND per 500ml bottle. Knowing the prices will help you assess reasonable selling prices.
Offer a Lower Price
When starting to bargain, you can offer a price that is about 10-20% lower than the seller’s asking price. This creates an opportunity for both parties to negotiate and reach the best price.
Buy in Bulk for Discounted Prices
If you want to buy many gifts or specialties, ask for a discount when buying in bulk. Shopping at Phu Quoc night market with a variety of items will help you easily get good discounts when buying a lot.
Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay – Ideal Resort Near Night Markets
Exterior view of Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay resort
If you are looking for a great place to stay in Phu Quoc, Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay is an unmissable choice. This 5-star resort is located in Bai Khem, one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc, offering modern and comfortable resort space. The resort’s location is very convenient, only about a 30-minute drive from Duong Dong town and close to Phu Quoc night markets.
Swimming pool and sun loungers at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay
In particular, Vui-Fest Night Market is only about a 5-minute drive from Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay. This is a vibrant destination in Sunset Town, where you can enjoy Phu Quoc specialties, participate in entertainment, and shop for souvenirs.
Sunset view from Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay
When staying at Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, you also enjoy special offer packages, including accommodation and tickets to visit prominent destinations in Sunset Town or Sun World Hon Thom at attractive prices.
In addition, the resort also has many outstanding facilities such as an infinity pool, gym, spa, free yoga classes, and outdoor sports activities such as kayaking, surfing, and snorkeling.
Resort guests kayaking in the sea near Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay
The resort’s Clubhouse restaurant is famous for its local seafood buffet and diverse Asian and European dishes, exquisitely prepared by talented chefs.
Buffet spread at Clubhouse restaurant in Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay
Clubhouse has a “Go 4, Pay 3” promotion every Saturday from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, priced from 680,000 VND/person. Accor Plus members also receive up to 50% discount.
Detailed information:
- Address: Bai Khem, An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province, Vietnam
- Phone number: (+84) 0 297 392 7777
- Price range: 2,000,000 VND – 6,000,000 VND
- Google review: 4.8/5
- Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
Night markets are an indispensable part of the Vietnamese travel experience, especially the bustling night markets. From the vibrant Phu Quoc Night Market to the culturally rich Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market, each market offers unique culinary, shopping, and cultural experiences. Hopefully, this article has provided you with useful information to explore the most bustling night markets in Vietnam and have memorable trips. Don’t forget to choose Premier Residences Phu Quoc Emerald Bay as an ideal stopover to fully enjoy your vacation on the pearl island and easily explore the famous night markets.