Dong Ba Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant charm of traditional Hue!

Dong Ba Market, a lively shopping hub in Hue, Vietnam, is one of the city’s oldest markets and offers an extensive range of products, including traditional clothing, food, souvenirs, and jewelry. This vast and culturally significant market provides a unique atmosphere and is definitely worth a visit!

Read more: Hue Tours

Introducing a few details about Dong Ba Market in Hue, an indispensable highlight for the journey

Visiting Dong Ba Market in Hue offers a chance to experience a traditional market environment that is quintessentially characteristic of the city. This vibrant and engaging destination is perfect for making the most of a family vacation. With bustling stalls featuring a wide range of goods, dining options, and unique souvenirs to bring home, Dong Ba Market is sure to impress. Nearly every tourist in Hue makes a stop at this popular market to shop and soak in the local atmosphere.

Where is Dong Ba Market located in Hue, the history of the market’s formation

Dong Ba Market is located in the heart of Hue, Vietnam, on the north bank of the Huong River. Its precise location extends along Tran Hung Dao Street, a major thoroughfare in the city. The market stretches from Trang Tien Bridge, a prominent bridge connecting the central area of Hue to its surrounding neighborhoods, to Gia Hoi Bridge, which spans the river further downstream.

History of Dong Ba Market:

Before Market’s establishment, there was a significant market known as Qui Gia Thi, located outside Chanh Dong Gate during the reign of King Gia Long. The market’s name commemorated the Nguyen Dynasty’s return to Phu Xuan, now Hue. Unfortunately, Qui Gia Thi Market was destroyed in an attack on the capital in 1885.

In response, King Dong Khanh reconstructed and renamed the market to “Dong Ba Market” two years later. Since then, Market has evolved into a central trading hub in Hue, serving as a key supplier of goods for local hospitals, royal families, military camps, national university dormitories, and the general public. At the end of the 19th century, the market was relocated to its present site, where it continues to be a vital part of the city’s commercial and cultural landscape.

How long does it take to shop at Dong Ba Market in Hue?

The time you’ll need to shop at Dong Ba Market in Hue generally ranges from 1 to 4 hours. A quick visit of about 1 to 2 hours allows you to get a brief overview, pick up a few items, and experience the market’s atmosphere. If you want to explore more thoroughly, including sampling local foods, browsing different sections, and shopping for souvenirs, plan on spending 2 to 4 hours. For those interested in a more in-depth experience, interacting with vendors, and trying various foods, you might spend more than 4 hours. Your total time will depend on your shopping goals and how leisurely you wish to explore the market.

What kinds of transportation are reasonable options to go to Dong Ba market in Hue?

To get to Dong Ba Market in Hue, Vietnam, you have several transportation options:

1. Taxi

• Company: Mai Linh Taxi, Vinasun Taxi
• Contact: You can call Mai Linh Taxi at +84 234 382 8282 or Vinasun Taxi at +84 234 382 8255. These taxis are reliable and have metered fares.

1. Ride-Hailing Apps

• Grab: This app is widely used in Vietnam for booking rides. You can use it to order a car or motorbike to Dong Ba Market. Just enter “Dong Ba Market” as your destination in the app.
• Contact: Download the Grab app from your smartphone’s app store and set up an account.

1. Cyclo (Bicycle Rickshaw)

• Service: Cyclos are a popular choice for a leisurely ride through the city. They are often available around tourist areas.
• Contact: You can find cyclos near major tourist spots or ask your hotel to arrange one for you.

1. Motorbike Rental

• Service: Renting a motorbike can be a convenient way to explore Hue on your own. Several rental shops offer this service.
• Contact: Look for local rental shops or ask your hotel for recommendations. For example, Hue Easy Rider (+84 234 382 5168) is a well-known place.

1. Public Bus

• Service: Local buses are available, but they might be less convenient if you’re unfamiliar with the routes.
• Contact: Information on routes and schedules can usually be obtained at your hotel or from local information centers.

1. Hotel Shuttle

• Service: Some hotels offer shuttle services to popular destinations.
• Contact: Check with your hotel’s front desk to see if they offer this service.

Dong Ba Market ‘s structure

Each of these options has its own advantages depending on your preferences for comfort, cost, and convenience.

in Market offers a dynamic shopping experience spread across its three floors, each with its own distinctive character and range of products. Here’s a detailed look at what you can find on each floor:

1st Floor: Ingredients and Local Delicacies

Focus: This floor is dedicated to daily cooking ingredients and an array of Central Vietnamese foods.

• Ingredients: You’ll find an extensive selection of fresh and dried ingredients essential for Vietnamese cuisine. This includes various types of fresh fish, poultry, and a range of dried foods.
• Specialties:
• Fermented Anchovy Sauce (Mắm Nêm): A staple in Central Vietnamese cuisine, known for its strong, pungent aroma and rich umami flavor.
• Fresh Fish: Look for an assortment of local fish, including river and sea varieties.
• Dried Foods: Includes dried shrimp, fish, and other preserved ingredients used in traditional dishes.

Experience: The bustling atmosphere is filled with the vibrant colors and aromas of fresh produce and prepared foods. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culinary culture and perhaps pick up some unique ingredients to take home.

2nd Floor: Handicrafts and Souvenirs

Focus: This floor showcases traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and artisanal products.

• Phu Cam Conical Hats: These iconic hats are hand-made from palm leaves and bamboo, offering both practical sun protection and a quintessential Vietnamese accessory.
• Ke Mon Jewelry: Elegant and intricate jewelry pieces crafted with attention to detail, perfect for unique gifts or keepsakes.
• Bamboo Products: Items such as baskets, mats, and home décor from villages like Bau La, Da Le, and Phu Thu. These products reflect traditional craftsmanship and are both functional and decorative.
• Ceramics: Sculpted ceramics with an ancient touch, including beautifully crafted vases and dishes that showcase traditional techniques and designs.

Experience: The 2nd floor is a treasure trove for those seeking authentic Vietnamese crafts. The vibrant colors and intricate designs make it a visual delight, and it’s an excellent place to find meaningful gifts and souvenirs.

3rd Floor: Fabrics and Clothing

Focus: This floor is dedicated to a variety of fabrics and clothing, from traditional attire to everyday wear.

• Ao Dai: The traditional Vietnamese dress, available in various styles and fabrics. This elegant garment is often worn during special occasions and celebrations.
• Casual Clothing: Includes everything from pajamas and casual wear to more contemporary fashion. The range of fabrics and styles reflects both traditional and modern Vietnamese fashion.
• Mementos: If you’re looking for something to remember your visit by, this floor offers a variety of clothing options and accessories that capture the essence of Vietnamese style.

Experience: The 3rd floor is vibrant and lively, with a mix of traditional and modern clothing. The colorful fabrics and clothing displays provide a glimpse into Vietnamese fashion and make it a great spot for purchasing unique apparel.

Listed must-try dishes when coming to Dong Ba Market in Hue

Visiting Market provides a vibrant sensory experience with its bustling atmosphere, colorful displays of food, and the rich aroma of street food being cooked. The market’s diverse offerings reflect the culinary traditions of Hue, making it a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of spicy bún bò Huế or enjoying a refreshing glass of nước mía, Market is a culinary adventure waiting to be explored.

Bún Bò Huế (30.000 – 50.000 VNĐ/ $1.5 – $2.5 per person)

Bun Bo Hue – Hue Noodle is Hue’s signature noodle soup, famous for its complex flavors. The broth, a deep reddish-orange from chili oil and spices, is aromatic with hints of lemongrass and a spicy kick. Tender slices of beef, pork hock, and sometimes congealed pig’s blood add depth. The fresh herbs and lime garnish bring bright green and yellow hues to the dish, enhancing both its taste and visual appeal.

Bánh Khoái (30.000 VNĐ/ $1.5 per person)

Khoai Cake features crispy, golden-brown pancakes made from a turmeric-infused rice flour batter, filled with savory pork, shrimp, and bean sprouts. Served with a tangy, slightly sweet dipping sauce, these pancakes have a satisfying crunch on the outside with a tender, flavorful filling. The vibrant yellow pancake contrasts with the dark, rich dipping sauce.

Bánh Bèo

Beo Cake are small, delicate rice cakes that are steamed to a translucent white. They’re topped with crispy pork skin, pink dried shrimp, and green scallions, creating a visually striking dish. The cakes are mild and slightly sweet, while the toppings add a savory crunch, balanced by a savory fish sauce that’s golden-brown in color.

Bánh Cốm

consists of sweet, chewy rice cakes made from young green rice. They have a pale green color and a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. When combined with coconut or sugar, they offer a rich, satisfying taste with a chewy texture.

Nem Lụi

features grilled pork skewers, which are dark brown and charred from the grill. Served with translucent rice paper, fresh herbs, and pickled vegetables, the skewers are smoky and slightly sweet. The fresh herbs and vegetables add vibrant greens and oranges, creating a colorful and refreshing dish when wrapped together and dipped in a tangy sauce.

Bánh Nậm

are steamed rice cakes wrapped in banana leaves, with a subtle, pale yellow color. Filled with minced pork and mushrooms, they have a mild, savory flavor with a hint of sweetness from the rice. The banana leaves impart a delicate herbal aroma, adding depth to the dish.

Bánh ướt is a soft, smooth rice noodle roll served with minced pork and mushrooms. The noodles are white and slightly translucent, while the pork and mushrooms add a light brown hue. Drizzled with a savory fish sauce, this dish offers a delicate, gentle flavor with a slight tanginess.

Nước Mía is a refreshing sugarcane juice that is light brown to golden in color. It’s sweet and slightly grassy, offering a natural, invigorating flavor that’s perfect for cooling down.

Chè – Sweet dessert

is a sweet dessert soup that can range from pale yellow mung bean varieties to vibrant three-color versions with jelly and beans. It offers a mix of textures, from smooth and creamy to chewy and crunchy, making it a delightful treat.

Sinh Tố – Mixed fruit

are creamy fruit smoothies made with fresh fruits like mango, avocado, or strawberry. The color varies depending on the fruit, ranging from bright yellow to green or pink. These smoothies are rich and sweet, with a smooth, indulgent texture thanks to the condensed milk.

Trà Đá is a simple, light iced tea that’s pale amber in color. It’s mildly astringent and refreshing, often served plain or with a splash of lime for added brightness.

Rượu Bầu Đá is a potent Vietnamese rice wine with an earthy, robust flavor. It’s clear to slightly cloudy and has a strong, warming effect, reflecting its traditional, artisanal roots.

What should tourists shop at Dong Ba market when traveling in Hue?

When traveling, many people still like to have a souvenir to save the place they have visited, or they can also buy gifts for family, relatives and friends. Don’t worry, this article will give you some suggestions for you to choose from.

Types of fish sauce

First are the types of fish sauce, from mackerel fish sauce, fish sauce, anchovy fish sauce, seasoning sauce, melon sauce, shrimp sauce, etc. Each type of fish sauce will have a different characteristic flavor. Among them, the most popular is seasoning sauce. Famous brands in Hue are Co Ri and ba con ruoc fish sauce. Usually fish sauce will be packed in boxes with aluminum foil so there is no fear of causing unpleasant odors during transportation. When we bring the fish sauce home, we already have the taste of Hue with us.

Dried beef, dried seafood

Hue is a coastal city, so seafood dishes are always a top priority. In addition to the already famous fresh seafood, at market you can easily find dried seafood such as braised squid and braised fish. With a unique processing method and rich marinade typical of the Central region, it is very suitable to choose as a gift. A special thing here is that you can freely try before you buy. Hue dried beef is also a very popular dish. It has a rich salty taste with the scent of the sea and is both chewy and sweet. This is an extremely suitable dish to sit and sip with friends.

Different types of sesame dried cakes

At Dong Ba market you can find many typical cakes such as toasted coconut cake, burst cake, sesame dried cake and some cakes made from sesame, sprinkled with sesame. The most famous is sesame dried cake. Buying dried sesame as a gift is a wise choice you should keep. To make a dry sesame cake, you have to go through many steps. Dried sesame cake is made from rice flour, sticky rice, sesame, crushed fresh ginger, and cinnamon powder to create aroma. Although they are just rustic cakes, they carry the strong scent of the homeland and the pride of Hue people.

Green pepper

This side dish is so popular and indispensable in every dish of Hue people. The price of green chili is usually around 80,000 VND/kg. Note that in the summer, green chili is very rare, if you want to buy it, you have to order it in advance. This is truly a meaningful gift for relatives and friends after traveling or working in Hue.

Clothes, jewelry, straw hats, mat sandals

What to buy at market? Clothes, shoes, fabrics, bags,… to souvenirs and gifts with “Hue quality” are products that you and your loved ones will love.

Other local specialties can be purchased at Dong Ba market in Hue

Some specialties of neighboring localities such as Mam Ruoc, Salted green (red) chilli pickle…

Shopping experience at Dong Ba market is not “cheated”

Dong Ba Market is indeed very suitable for many tourists to choose as a place to visit, shop and even eat. However, because it is a place where many foreign tourists gather, you should immediately pocket a few of the following experiences to make your purchases without being “cheated”.

First, you should avoid going to the market early in the morning or early in the afternoon, because this time is considered “opening time”. If you don’t buy, they will look very upset. When you intend to buy an item, you should go to many different stalls to explore the price, design, especially clothes. You should bargain down to about 40-50% of the listed price.

Although prices have been stable in recent years thanks to strict management requiring product price listing, there are still some shops that raise prices unexpectedly. To be sure, it’s best to only buy where the price is listed. One last thing is that you should not go into the booth for tourists or Westerners. Because the prices at these stalls are often higher than your ability to pay.

There are some experiences when you go to Shopping at Dong Ba Market