Dong Ba Market in Hue: Dining, Shopping, and Check-in Experience

If you have the opportunity travel to HueDon't forget to stop by Dong Ba Market – a place that many tourists consider a must-visit at least once. It is not just a market selling food and daily necessities, but also a place full of interesting things for you to discover, experience the local culture, and choose meaningful gifts for your loved ones and friends.

1. Overview of Dong Ba Market in Hue – A symbol of the ancient capital

Dong Ba Market in Hue is one of the most bustling markets, steeped in cultural and historical significance. It is not only a place for lively trading, but also a place where you can experience the daily life of the people of the ancient capital, enjoy the famous Dong Ba market cuisine, and choose Dong Ba market specialties as gifts for your loved ones.

1.1. Where is Dong Ba Market?

Dong Ba Market in Hue boasts a prime central location, situated on the main road. Tran Hung Dao, nestled beside the romantic Huong River and only how Truong Tien Bridge a few stepsThis not only makes it easy for visitors to visit the market on foot, by bike, or by cyclo from nearby hotels, but it is also an ideal starting point for connecting to other famous landmarks such as the Imperial City of Hue, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Thanh Toan Tile Bridge.

📍 Address2 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Hoa Ward, Hue City
🕒 Opening hours6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily

1.2. History of Dong Ba Market in Hue – Over 100 years of ups and downs with the imperial capital

Did you know that the history of Dong Ba Market in Hue is more interesting than just a simple market? This place holds over a century of stories from the imperial capital. Join Queen Cafe Bus to turn the pages of this history now!

1.2.1. From the name "Quy Gia Thi" during the Nguyen Dynasty

During the Nguyen dynasty, the market was originally named Quy Gia Market, meaning "the market of those who return." This meaningful name accurately reflects the market's role: a gathering place for trade among people from all over who come to the capital of Phu Xuan to do business and start new ventures.

Not only that, it was also a bustling shopping center, supplying goods to the royal palace and serving the daily needs of the capital's residents. It was this role that helped Quy Gia Thi become the economic heart, contributing to the prosperity of the ancient capital at that time.

1.2.2. The landmark known as Dong Ba Market in Hue during the reign of King Dong Khanh (1887)

Under King Dong Khanh in 1887, Dong Ba Market in Hue was rebuilt on the site of the old market after the fall of the capital and officially given its current name, taken from the nearby Dong Ba Gate. The market was reorganized and became an important trading center. Imperial City of HueOver more than a century, this place has not only been a bustling marketplace but also a cultural symbol closely tied to the memories of many generations of people in the ancient capital.

1.2.3. Renovations and developments to date

After years of deterioration due to the effects of war and natural disasters, in 1987, Dong Ba Market in Hue underwent a major renovation. This was an important decision to meet the development needs of a growing city and to begin serving tourism.

The project has built a solid three-story building as it stands today. What is special is that despite being modernized to become the city's largest commercial center, Dong Ba Market still retains the "soul" and lifestyle of a traditional market in Hue.

1.3. Opening hours of Dong Ba Market in Hue

1.3.1. Official operating hours: 3:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily

The market operates from 3:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

• Early morning (from 3:00): This is when the fresh food stalls and breakfast counters are at their liveliest, ideal for those who want to fully experience the local rhythm of life.
• From 7:00 onwards: Souvenir stalls, fabric shops, and specialty stores begin to bustle, and the market becomes most crowded at noon and in the afternoon with both tourists and locals.

1.3.2. The best time to visit and explore

There are two "golden hours" for you to fully explore Dong Ba Market, depending on your purpose:

• Morning (7:00 AM – 10:00 AM): Ideal for dining and shopping. The weather is cool, the market is not too crowded, and the goods are fresh and plentiful. You can leisurely enjoy an authentic Hue breakfast and choose specialties and ao dai fabrics at the best prices.
• Afternoon (3:00 PM – 5:00 PM): Perfect for photography and leisurely strolls. The soft afternoon sunlight will provide you with beautiful shots, while you can feel the peaceful rhythm of life in the ancient capital.

2. Directions to Dong Ba Market in the most convenient way

2.1. How to get to Hue City

For those seeking convenient and economical transportation to Hue, Queen Cafe Bus sleeper buses are a top recommendation.

The company scores points for its reliable service and well-equipped vehicles, featuring amenities such as Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and comfortable reclining seats, allowing you to rest comfortably throughout the long journey. Booking tickets is also very simple and quick via the company's official website.

Check out our price list for popular routes to Hue:

BUS ROUTE TO HUẾ	PRICE	BOOK TICKETS
Hanoi ⇔ Hue	$15.00 – $22.50	Place it here
Da Nang ⇔ Hue	150.000 VND/pax	Place it here
Hoi An ⇔ Hue	150.000 VND/pax	Place it here
Ninh Binh ⇔ Hue	$150 - $200	Place it here
Quang Binh ⇔ Hue	180,000 VND	Place it here

Queen Cafe Bus offers the following online booking methods:

• Hotline: 0906.413.468 – 0914.215.809
• Zalo: 0905.746.884 – 0914.215.809
• Website: https://queenbus.com.vn/
• Fanpage: Queen Cafe Open Bus

2.2. Transportation options within the city to reach Dong Ba Market in Hue

2.2.1. Renting a motorcycle (including prices and a few reputable addresses)

Renting a motorbike is the ideal option for those who love freedom and want to be in control of their schedule. It only takes a few minutes to ride along central roads such as Tran Hung Dao and Le Loi to reach Dong Ba Market.

Reference cost:

• Manual transmission: 120,000 – 150,000 VND/day
• Gasoline vehicle: 150,000 – 180,000 VND/day

Suggestions for reputable car rental companies:

• Hue Motorcycle Rental: 29C Chu Van An | Hotline: 0905 333 737
• Hidden Land Travel: 10/117 Pham Van Dong | Hotline: 0945 033 630
• Motorvina Hue: 14 Nguyen Thai Hoc | Hotline: 0935 139 434

2.2.2. Taxi/Ride-hailing services: (with phone numbers of popular companies)

This is the best option if you are traveling in a large group, have a lot of luggage, or simply prioritize comfort. You can choose one of the following two options:

1. Traditional taxi

You can easily hail a taxi on the main roads or ask the hotel receptionist to call one for you.

Some popular brands:

• Mai Linh Taxi Hue: 0234 3 89 89 89
• Thanh Cong Taxi: 0234 3 57 57 57
• GILI Taxi: 0234 3 82 82 82

2. Technology-based vehicles (Grab, Xanh SM)

This option allows you to proactively book a ride through the mobile app, which is especially convenient during peak hours.

• Advantages: Know in advance clear pricing, easily track your route and make payments.
• Common applications: Grab send the image of Green SM operates very well in the center of Hue.

2.2.3. Cyclo: Experience Hue in a nostalgic way

To fully experience the slow pace and poetic charm of Hue, a cyclo ride from Truong Tien Bridge to Dong Ba Market is an experience not to be missed.

• Cost: Approximately 40,000 – 70,000 VND per trip (you should always ask the price beforehand).
• Pickup point: Easily found in the Nguyen Dinh Chieu pedestrian street area, at the Toa Kham pier, or along Le Loi Street.

2.2.4. Walking: Enjoy the scenery of the Huong River if you are nearby.

If you are staying at hotels in the central area (such as Le Loi Street, Hung Vuong Street), walking is a great way to get to the market. The walking route along the shore Perfume River Crossing the Truong Tien Bridge will bring you moments of tranquility and many beautiful photo opportunities, whether it's a fresh morning or a romantic afternoon.

3. Explore the architecture and "map" of the areas inside Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market has a very distinctive architecture. Study the market map beforehand to make your tour and shopping experience more convenient.

3.1. Overall architecture with a distinctive 3-story "bell tower"

The architecture of Dong Ba Market is very distinctive, with the three-story central building as its focal point, often referred to by locals as the "bell tower" – a familiar symbol of the ancient capital.

Surrounding this building, hundreds of stalls are arranged in a very logical manner. Each floor and each area specializes in a different product category, such as food, textiles, or handicrafts. This clear division helps visitors easily find the products they need without feeling overwhelmed by the vast shopping space.

3.2. Detailed floor plans of the market help you avoid getting lost.

Below is a reference map based on local knowledge to help you easily find what you need, especially if you plan to buy ao dai fabric at Dong Ba Market or look for Dong Ba Market specialties as gifts.

3.2.1. Third Floor: A paradise for fabrics and clothing, especially for purchasing ao dai fabric at Dong Ba Market

If you love traditional ao dai dresses, the third floor is definitely a must-visit. This area specializes in selling ao dai fabrics, silk, brocade, lace, and more, with a wide range of colors and materials for you to choose from. The shopkeepers here are extremely friendly and happy to advise you on choosing fabrics that suit your body shape and skin tone.

In addition to ao dai fabric, this place also sells ready-to-wear fashion clothing, underwear, scarves, and hats—enough for you to shop from head to toe at reasonable prices. In particular, you can bargain gently and receive warm hospitality like family.

3.2.2. Second Floor: The World of Handicrafts and Exquisite Souvenirs

This floor is for those who want to take a piece of Hue home as a souvenir. From conical hats, embroidered bags, and embroidered paintings to exquisitely carved wooden items, everything is handmade by skilled Hue artisans.

This place is very popular with foreign tourists because it is easy to find small gifts that are rich in cultural significance. Don't forget to ask about the meaning of each item, and you will hear stories that are very Hue.

3.2.3. First Floor: Hue Specialty Dry Goods and Famous Fish Sauce Varieties

This floor is a "paradise" for those who love Dong Ba Market cuisine in Hue. You will find a wide variety of stalls selling sesame candy, pickled shrimp, tré (fermented pork), shrimp paste, pickled shrimp paste, green bean fruit cakes, and more. Each item is neatly packaged, perfect for taking away.

Some stalls even let you sample the fish sauce right there, which is perfect for choosing the right type that suits your taste. If you don't know what to buy at Dong Ba Market, this is the first area you should visit!

3.2.4. Area around the market: A gathering place for street food

Outside the market, especially in the small alleys along Tran Hung Dao Street, you will encounter a world street food in the true sense. What are they? Huế beef noodles, steamed rice cake – sticky rice cake, Various types of Hue tea, crispy pancake, grilled spring rolls, etc. Each dish costs only 10,000–25,000 VND, but the flavors will leave a lasting impression on visitors.

People in Hue often say: To understand Hue, eat at Dong Ba Market. And this is absolutely true. Wandering around the market, eating, listening to the gentle Hue accents of the vendors—that is the true "Hue" experience, rich with the flavor of the Central region.

4. Shopping Guide: What to buy as meaningful gifts at Dong Ba Market in Hue?

Dong Ba Market is a paradise if you are looking to buy Hue specialties as gifts. From famous types of fish sauce and dried seafood to traditional imperial city sweets and candies, you can find it all here.

4.1. Dong Ba Market's specialty dried goods carry the distinct flavor of the ancient capital

4.1.1. Types of dried seafood: Dried shrimp, dried squid, etc.

Dried seafood such as shrimp, squid, and yellowtail are popular specialties. At Dong Ba Market, they are processed and packaged hygienically, making them convenient to buy as gifts.

Reference price:

• Dried shrimp: 280,000 – 400,000 VND/kg
• Dried squid: 450,000 – 700,000 VND/kg (depending on type)

Quick tip:

• Dried seafood can be used to cook soup, stew, or make delicious snacks.
• If you are flying, you should ask the seller vacuum Products designed for convenient transportation and storage.

4.1.2. Sesame candy, Hue specialty cakes

Sticky sesame candy is the "soul" of Hue's specialties, but Dong Ba Market also offers many other types of high-quality cakes, candies, and teas for you to choose from.

1. Sesame candy – The most distinctive gift

This chewy, fragrant sesame-flavored cake is an essential treat. Well-known brands such as Heavenly Fragrance, Double Happiness, Tranquil Peace are all present at the market.

• Reference price: 25,000 – 40,000 VND/box.

2. Other types of candy

• Printed cakes, mung bean cakes with fruit: Attractive design, suitable for gift-giving.
• Betel nut candy, ginger candy: Simple, old-fashioned snacks.
• Reference price: 30,000 – 60,000 VND/box.

3. Hue Imperial Tea

This is an elegant health gift, combining many types of herbs, very suitable for giving to older people.

• Reference price: 70,000 – 150,000 VND per package.

Important notes when shopping:

• You should check carefully. date of manufacture, expiration date.
• Don't hesitate Ask to try the product because the small traders are very friendly.
• If you stay at a hotel near the market, you can shop multiple times to keep your food fresh and avoid carrying heavy loads.

4.2. Types of Hue Fish Sauce – The "National Soul" of Cuisine

Huế fish sauce is considered the "national soul" of the ancient capital's cuisine. Visit the ground floor of Dong Ba Market, and you will be immersed in a world of distinctive fish sauces, among which the most prominent and sought-after by tourists is the sour shrimp sauce.

4.2.1. Sweet and spicy shrimp paste

This is Hue's most famous fish sauce, loved by tourists for its unique blend of sour, spicy, salty, and sweet flavors that really stimulate the taste buds.

Reference price: 45,000 – 80,000 VND per jar.

Useful tips:

• Sour shrimp paste is best enjoyed with boiled meat and rice noodles or white rice.
• You should choose to buy the type that is sealed in a plastic jar with a tight-fitting lid To ensure safety and prevent breakage during transport.

4.2.2. Fragrant shrimp paste

Speaking of East Market cuisine, definitely not to be missed Huế shrimp paste – the type of fish sauce that gives the dish its distinctive flavor Huế beef noodles renowned. 

Besides cooking noodles, the people of Hue also use shrimp paste to braise meat, stir-fry with lemongrass and chili, or dip with star fruit, sour banana, and raw vegetables – very filling and "evocative of home."

Reference price: from 25,000 to 35,000 VND per 250g jar
At Dong Ba MarketYou can find shrimp paste from reputable brands such as Bà Duệ, Ông Cảnh, etc.

4.2.3. Unique Lăng Cô clam sauce

This is a specialty fish sauce for those who enjoy exploring new flavors. The clam sauce is made from fresh clams from the Lang Co lagoon, with a rich, salty taste, a light creaminess, and a very distinctive aroma.

Reference price: 60,000 – 90,000 VND per jar.

Useful tips:

• Oyster sauce is best enjoyed with hot rice or rice noodles and a little fresh vegetables.
• Since it is naturally fermented fish sauce, you should ask the seller carefully about best way to store to preserve the full flavor.

4.3. Hue Imperial Tea 

Originally a type of tea used to offer to ancient kings and lords, court tea is a health gift that is both meaningful and luxurious.

Uses & Flavors: The tea is brewed from a variety of precious herbs (chrysanthemum, licorice, artichoke, etc.), with a sweet taste and a mild, pleasant aroma. Regularly enjoying this tea helps calm the mind, reduce heat, and beautify the skin, making it very good for your health.

Reference price:

• Filter bag type: 70,000 – 90,000 VND/box
• Dried herbal form: 100,000 – 150,000 VND per package

Recommended brands: King's Tea, Phoenix Tea, Emperor's Tea.

Where to buy: You can find tea at specialty stalls in ground floor or the gift shop area at second floorwhere there are many beautifully packaged boxes of tea.

4.4. Poetic conical hats, handmade souvenirs

To bring home a gift imbued with Hue's cultural identity, the handicrafts area on the second floor is a must-visit destination.

1. Poetic conical hat

This is Hue's most refined and distinctive gift. The unique feature of the hat is the poems or images of the Truong Tien Bridge and Thien Mu Pagoda, which are skillfully woven into the fabric and only appear when illuminated.

• Reference price: 60,000 – 120,000 VND per piece.
• Shopping tips: Ask the seller to hold the hat up to the light to check the pattern inside and feel how light it is.
• Where to buy: Second floor (handicrafts area) or stalls outside the market.

2. Other handmade souvenirs

Besides conical hats, you can also find many other cute little items such as:

• Handwoven bags, handwoven wallets.
• Embroidered paintings, wooden items, small statues.
• Keychains, bracelets, scented pouches...
• Reference price: Starting at just 15,000 VND for small items.

Suggested "authentic Hue" gift set: If you're unsure, you can combine a poetic conical hat, a jar of sour shrimp paste, and a box of royal court tea to create a gift set that is both beautiful and rich in the flavors of the ancient capital.

5. Dong Ba Market in Hue: A Culinary Paradise: Eat your way through the ancient capital in one market

If you're wondering what to eat while exploring the tourist destination HueThe answer is definitely Dong Ba Market. The ground floor and surrounding stalls are a miniature culinary paradise, offering nearly every specialty dish of the ancient capital.

5.1. Famous dishes that have made the brand

5.1.1. Hue Beef Noodles

A steaming bowl of noodles with a rich broth flavored with lemongrass, shrimp paste, and a distinctive spicy kick, served with tender, fatty beef and pork sausage.

• Price: 25,000 – 65,000 VND per bowl.
• Tip: Eat breakfast to enjoy the freshly cooked broth, which is the most delicious.

5.1.2. Rice with clams – Rice noodles with clams

Rice or vermicelli mixed with stir-fried clams, herbs, crispy fried pork rinds, and topped with hot clam broth. The dish has a distinctive spicy flavor.

• Price: 15,000 – 25,000 VND per bowl.
• Tip: You can ask for extra pork fat or shrimp paste if you prefer a richer flavor.

5.1.3. Grilled spring rolls

Ground pork wrapped around lemongrass sticks and grilled over hot coals. Rolled with rice paper, fresh herbs, and dipped in a rich, fragrant peanut sauce.

• Price: 5,000 – 7,000 VND per skewer.

5.2. The world of unique cakes you can't miss

Alongside beef noodles and rice with clams, Hue is also a "land" of exquisite traditional cakes. Dong Ba Market is the place where this culinary treasure is most fully represented, with cake stalls always beautifully displayed, their fragrances enticing visitors.

5.2.1. Steamed rice cakes, rice flour cakes, rice flour dumplings

The famous Hue trio of cakes that everyone should try.

• Bánh bèo: Steam in a small bowl, sprinkle with dried shrimp and pork rinds.
• Nam cake: Soft dough wrapped in banana leaves with shrimp and pork filling.
• Steamed rice cake: Transparent, chewy dough enveloping a rich shrimp filling.
• Price: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per mixed platter.
• Tip: You should order a mixed platter to try all three types.

5.2.2. Crispy pancakes 

Similar to banh xeo but smaller and crispier, served with a unique dipping sauce made from pork liver and peanuts.

• Price: 25,000 – 35,000 VND per plate.

5.2.3. Pressed cake

Hot pressed flour on cast iron molds with egg, pâté, meat fillings... A famous snack among young people in Hue.

• Price: 3,000 – 8,000 VND per piece.
• Tip: It tastes best when eaten hot on the spot.

5.3. Cool down with Hue desserts

After enjoying savory dishes, Hue desserts are the perfect ending. Dessert stalls are scattered on the ground floor and outside the market gate, with prices starting at just 10,000 VND per cup.

1. Lotus seed tea

Originally a royal dish, the dessert has a refined sweetness from lotus seeds and rock sugar, helping to calm the mind and cool the body.

• Price: 12,000 – 20,000 VND per cup.

2. Steamed pork dumplings

The most unique dessert in Hue. Chewy tapioca balls filled with savory roasted pork, cooked in sweet and fragrant ginger syrup. A truly delightful culinary experience.

• Price: 10,000 – 15,000 VND per cup.
• Tip: If you don't know which type to choose, order a cup of "assorted tea" to enjoy many flavors at once.

6. Unique experiences only at Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market is not just a place to eat and shop. It is also a vibrant cultural space where you can capture moments that are uniquely Hue and experience the authentic rhythm of life in the ancient capital.

6.1. Check in with pictures of the ancient Dong Ba Market in Hue

With its distinctive architecture and colorful atmosphere, Dong Ba Market is a wonderful backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

• Main market gate (Tran Hung Dao Street): A place that captures everyday moments, bustling with people and street vendors.

• Fabric section (3rd floor): The colorful stalls selling ao dai fabric create a vibrant backdrop, ideal for taking photos with the traditional Vietnamese dress.

• Outdoor dining area: Capture the images of glowing charcoal stoves, pots of steaming sweet soup, or sizzling pancake pans full of emotion.

Tips for a "muse" photo shoot:

• Clothing: Prioritize white, purple, or light pastel-colored ao dai.
• Time: Early morning (7-9 a.m.) or late afternoon (4-5 p.m.) for the best light.
• Posing: The most natural thing is when you interact with the saleswomen, choose items... "acting as if you're not acting."

6.2. Immerse yourself in the simple rhythm of life 

Take a moment to slow down, listen, and observe. You will feel a very different atmosphere at Dong Ba Market – it is not just a place for buying and selling, but also a place filled with human warmth. It is the friendly cries of vendors, the gentle smiles of the tea seller, and the lively conversations between buyers and sellers. It is these simple things that will linger longest in your memory of Hue.

7. Detailed guide to shopping at Dong Ba Market for first-time visitors

To have a complete and enjoyable exploration of Dong Ba Market, keep these tips in mind:

7.1 Ask for the price first and bargain boldly

This is normal at the market. You can bargain for a price about 10-20% lower than the initial price. Always maintain a friendly, cheerful attitude to make the transaction easier.

7.2. Always have cash on hand for convenient transactions.

Most stalls do not support electronic payments. Carrying cash, especially small denominations, will help you make transactions more conveniently, especially when buying snacks or small items.

7.3 Take care to safeguard your personal belongings in crowded places.

The market is very crowded, so always carry your bag in front of you and keep your belongings in sight to avoid unfortunate incidents.

7.4 Ask the seller to carefully pack the specialties to take home.

When buying specialties to take home (fish sauce, tea, sesame candy, etc.), don't hesitate to ask the seller to pack them carefully. Many stalls have vacuum bags or foam boxes available, which are very convenient if you are traveling by plane.

8. Famous tourist attractions near Dong Ba Market

From Dong Ba Market, you can easily combine visits to other famous landmarks in Hue to enrich your journey.

8.1. Truong Tien Bridge (approx. 600m away)

It takes only about 5–10 minutes to walk from Dong Ba Market, you will arrive Truong Tien Bridge – The six-span, twelve-arch bridge spanning the Huong River has been immortalized in poetry for generations. The bridge is especially beautiful at sunset and in the evening when the lights come on, reflecting off the water to create a wonderfully romantic scene. After strolling through the market, stop by Truong Tien Bridge to take photos in your ao dai for the perfect "poetic Hue" combo.

8.2. Hue Imperial City (Da Noi) (approx. 1.8km away)

From Dong Ba Market, just go straight down Tran Hung Dao Street and cross Phu Xuan Bridge to get there. Hue Imperial City, also known as Great Angeri – a place that bears witness to the golden age of the Nguyen dynasty for over 140 years. It is a complex of palaces, temples, lotus ponds, and beautiful ancient royal gardens.

• Admission ticket: ~200,000 VND
• Ideal visiting time: 3 to 4 hours in the morning or cool afternoon.

8.3. Hue National School (approx. 2 km away)

Built in 1896, Hue National School One of the oldest schools in Vietnam, it has educated many prominent figures such as President Ho Chi Minh, Vo Nguyen Giap, and Pham Van Dong. With its bright red walls and ancient tiled roof, this place is an extremely popular check-in spot for young people and tourists who love French colonial architecture. Wear an ao dai or white shirt – it will look great with the school's classic scenery.

8.4. Thien Mu Pagoda (about 4-5 km away)

If you have time in the afternoon or the next morning, don't forget to stop by. Thien Mu Pagoda – one of Hue's most famous spiritual and architectural landmarks. The pagoda is located on Ha Khe Hill, overlooking the Huong River, with Phước Duyên Tower Seven stories exude a sense of majesty and tranquility.

You can travel by taxi, motorbike, or rent a dragon boat along the Toa Kham pier near Dong Ba Market to visit the temple – a very "poetic Hue" experience.

9. Final words

Dong Ba Market in Hue is not just a destination, but a place that fully preserves the soul and rhythm of Hue. From the flavors of simple local dishes to the warm smiles of the vendors, everything creates an unforgettable memory.

Queen Cafe Bus hopes this detailed guide will help you have a truly fulfilling journey of discovery. Let us accompany you on the bus ride to the ancient capital, ready for a new day beginning with a steaming bowl of beef noodle soup at this iconic market.