1. Ha Long Market 1 – The city's commercial heart

Address: Bach Dang Street, Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province.

Ha Long Market 1, also known as Hon Gai Market, is the largest and most famous market in Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province. Located in the heart of the Hon Gai area, the market was built in 2003 and, through numerous upgrades, has become an indispensable commercial symbol of this region. With its large area and over 36 scientifically arranged sectors, it serves not only the shopping needs of the local people but is also a favorite destination for tourists. Every day, the market welcomes thousands of visitors; on weekends, this number can reach 7,000, transforming it into a vibrant center that clearly reflects the rhythm of life of the people of Ha Long.

Ha Long Market 1, also known as Hon Gai Market, is the most famous and largest market in Ha Long (Image: Collected)

1.1 What's special?

Entering the market, you'll be captivated by the abundance of stalls. The outdoor area is a seafood paradise, with plump crabs, fresh squid just caught from the bay, and especially hand-ground squid cakes – a specialty that defines the Ha Long brand. I visited the Thoan squid cake stall (kiosk 36-37) and couldn't resist the alluring aroma, ending up taking home a few kilos as gifts. Inside, the floors are clearly divided: the first floor sells dry goods and food, the second and third floors sell clothes, shoes, and bags, while the top floor is dedicated to souvenirs such as pearl necklaces and lacquer paintings – gifts with a strong maritime character.

1.2 Exploration tips

Ideal time: Early morning to buy fresh seafood or late afternoon to enjoy the bustling atmosphere.
Price reference: Seafood from 100,000 – 300,000 VND/kg; remember to haggle to avoid overpaying.
Additional experience: The outdoor market behind has fried spring rolls and clam porridge – snacks you can't miss.

2. Cai Dam Market – Modern in the heart of Bai Chay

Address: Hoang Quoc Viet St, Bai Chay, Ha Long, Quang Ninh

Opened in 2017, Cai Dam Market was built on an area of over 4,000 m², featuring the style of a shopping mall combined with a traditional market. Not only serving local people, the market is also an ideal destination for tourists who want to experience convenient shopping while still retaining the essence of Ha Long. With a clean, airy space and reasonable planning, it offers a pleasant feeling, different from other crowded markets.

Designed like a shopping mall, Cai Dam Market is a famous Ha Long market that shouldn't be missed when visiting the mining region (Image: Collected)

2.1 Highlights

The first floor houses fresh seafood and local produce, from lobsters and crabs to clean vegetables – all sold at reasonable prices. The upper floors are a “kingdom” of fashion, cosmetics, electronics, and handicrafts. The market is not too crowded, so you can stroll leisurely without worrying about jostling.

2.2 Review Corner

Delicious food: On-site grilled seafood, prices from 150,000 VND/serving.
Tip: Go in the afternoon to enjoy a more peaceful atmosphere.

3. Ha Long Night Market – Sparkling under the lights

Address: Ha Long Marine Boulevard, Hung Thang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh.

Ha Long Night Market, often called Bai Chay Night Market, is one of the most famous Ha Long markets when night falls. Located on Ha Long Marine Boulevard within the Halong Marine Plaza commercial complex, this market operates from 5 PM to 11 PM, attracting both tourists and locals. With over 100 stalls spread over two floors, it's not just a shopping destination but also a nighttime entertainment space where you can immerse yourself in the sparkling lights and vibrant atmosphere of the coastal city.

One of the famous Ha Long night markets (Image: Collected)

3.1 What's the attraction?

The night market features souvenirs such as seashell wind chimes, pearl necklaces, t-shirts printed with Ha Long Bay images, along with dried seafood and snacks. The first floor focuses on handicrafts and shoes, while the second floor is a culinary paradise with grilled squid, che (sweet dessert soup), and seafood bun. Sitting and enjoying a plate of grilled squid, watching the flow of people under the bright lights – a very "chill" experience not to be missed when visiting Ha Long Night Market!

3.2 Tips

Time: Busiest from 7 PM – 9 PM, especially on weekends.
Shopping: Feel free to haggle as prices are usually higher than during the day.

4. Hon Gai Market – Fresh Seafood from Dawn

Address: Bach Dang Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province (near the fishing port).

Hon Gai Market, also known as Ha Long fishing port, is the largest seafood wholesale market in the city. Located near the coast and opposite Vincom Ha Long, the market starts bustling from 3 AM when fishing boats dock, bringing the freshest seafood catches from Ha Long Bay. This is an ideal place for those who love freshness and want to experience the colorful working life of local fishermen. While not as modern and spacious as other markets, Hon Gai Market has an authentic, ocean-like charm.

4.1 What's so appealing?

From squid, crab, oysters to fish – everything is fresh, straight from the nets to the counter. Prices at this market are often much cheaper than in tourist areas thanks to the direct wholesale model.

4.2 Experience

Time: 5am-7am for the freshest goods.
Note: Wear sandals as the market is quite cluttered and damp.

Famous Ha Long markets are attractive destinations for many international tourists (Image: Collected)

5. Ha Long Market 2 – Simple yet attractive

Address: 433 Le Loi, Tran Hung Dao Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh.

Ha Long Market 2, also known as Loong Toong Market, is located about 1km from Ha Long Market 1, right on National Highway 18. Although not as prominent in scale as its "brother" Ha Long 1, this market scores points for its friendliness, approachability and affordable prices. This is a place where locals frequent, and is also an ideal destination for tourists looking for dried seafood specialties to take home as gifts. With a clearly planned space, the market offers a comfortable and pleasant shopping experience.

5.1 Unique features

Dried seafood is the star here: dried squid, shrimp paste, and sa sung – all are handcrafted and irresistibly delicious. The first floor sells dried goods and food; the upper floors sell clothes, bags, shoes.

5.2 Suggestions

Price: Dried squid from 250,000 – 800,000 VND/kg.
Time: Go in the afternoon to avoid crowds and choose more carefully.

6. Vuon Dao Market – A Corner Full of Flavor

Address: Gieng Day Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province.

Vuon Dao Market is located near the Bai Chay residential area. It’s a small market but offers a full range of goods, mainly serving local residents. While not very famous with tourists, it offers a peaceful and familiar atmosphere, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of larger markets. Despite its modest size, the market adequately meets the demand for fresh food and typical snacks, allowing me to experience the everyday life of Ha Long.

6.1 Appeal

Fresh seafood, clean vegetables, and dishes like banh cuon cha muc are available at affordable prices.
Delicious food: Banh cuon cha muc at 30,000 VND/serving.
Plus points: Inexpensive, less crowded, very “local”.

7. Bai Chay Market – Tradition Meets Modernity

Address: Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Bai Chay Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province.

Bai Chay Market, once a long-standing traditional market, has been upgraded to a more modern version while retaining the unique character of Ha Long. Located near Bai Chay tourist area, the market is a meeting point for locals and tourists, offering a diverse range of goods from seafood to souvenirs. It's a must-visit if you want to shop and experience the local atmosphere.

Famous Ha Long markets offer a wide variety of goods (Image: Collected)

7.1 Attractions

Fresh seafood, dried food, and handcrafted souvenirs are reasonably priced.
Time: Early morning for fresh produce.
Note: Haggle when buying souvenirs.

8. Ha Lam Market – A Famous Ha Long Market Hiding Local Specialties

Address: Ha Lam Ward, Ha Long City, Quang Ninh Province.

Ha Lam Market, located in the outskirts of Ha Long, is less known to tourists but very familiar to locals. With its rustic and simple atmosphere, it offers a peaceful feeling in the heart of the bustling tourist city. The market offers everything from fresh food to unique specialties, making it an ideal destination for those who want to explore Ha Long's cuisine more deeply.

8.1 What to Try?

Tu Ky bloodworms, fish cakes, and fresh vegetables are highlights.
Price: Bloodworms from 200,000 VND/kg, very reasonable.
Time: Early morning is best.

These top 8 famous Ha Long markets are a vibrant testament to the richness of the bay area. From the bustling Ha Long Market 1, the glittering night market, to smaller corners like Cai Dam Market – each place offers a unique experience. A trip to Ha Long without visiting these markets would be a significant omission. Plan a visit now to explore, enjoy, and bring home souvenirs brimming with the flavors of the sea!