The Hoi An night market is the evening version of the town: stalls under strings of silk lanterns selling souvenirs, clothing, lanterns, bags and snacks, with street-food vendors along the river side. It sits on the south bank, reached by crossing the bridge from the old quarter, and it runs after dark each day. Wandering it costs nothing, and it is the easiest, most atmospheric thing to do in the evening without a ticket or a tour. Come to see the lanterns reflected in the river, to try small plates of street food, or to pick up inexpensive gifts. The old town and its heritage ticket are on the north bank, so the market works well as a free, flexible follow-up to a day of sightseeing.
How it works
Lantern stalls and souvenir sellers open as the light fades and stay open into the evening, with food vendors grilling skewers and ladling noodles and sweet soups. Prices are negotiable, so bargain politely, and walk away if a stall will not budge. Compare a few lanterns before buying, because quality differs, and ask how a folding lantern packs for a flight. Watch your belongings in the crowd, and carry small notes. Street food is cheap and varied, but pick busy stalls with a high turnover.
Making the most of it
Arrive at dusk, when the lanterns come on and the light is soft, and walk the riverside first. Take a slow loop, then choose a dinner spot with a view of the water. If you want a quiet hour, go earlier, before the crowds arrive. A lantern boat ride on the river is a common add-on, and a lantern-making class gives you something to compare with the stall lanterns.
The night market is not a heritage site, so no old town ticket is needed, though the old town area itself has ticketing rules that you should read before you walk its streets.
The river can rise and flood the low streets in October and November, and flooding can close stalls and lanes for a day or more. Rain is frequent in the evenings, so carry a poncho and be ready to shelter. After floods the market usually reopens as the water falls, but check conditions with your hotel before heading out.
In the drier months the market is busiest on weekends and holidays, so go early or on a weekday for a calmer walk. For up-to-date information on old town rules and events, the heritage centre website is a useful reference.
What to expect
The experience
A free, open-air evening market of lantern and souvenir stalls and street-food vendors by the river.
Best time
Dusk, when the lanterns light up. Weekdays are calmer than weekends.
How long
One to two hours, longer if you eat there.
Tips
Bargain politely, compare lantern quality, carry small notes, watch your belongings and bring a poncho in the wet season.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone who wants a free, atmospheric evening in Hoi An.
- Families
- Children love the lanterns and snacks, but the crowds can be tight at peak times.
- Couples
- Walk the riverside at dusk and take a lantern boat if the water is calm.
- Pair with
- Hoi An Ancient Town, the Memories show and a food walk.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
Is the night market free?+
Yes. Wandering the stalls costs nothing. You pay only for what you buy.
When does it open?+
It runs in the evening after dark. Exact hours vary with the season and the weather, so check with your hotel.
Do I need the old town ticket?+
No for the market itself. The ticket is for entering the heritage monuments in the old quarter.
Can I bargain?+
Yes. Prices at souvenir stalls are negotiable, so bargain politely and compare a few stalls first.
What about flooding?+
November is flood season, and the river can inundate low streets and close stalls. Check conditions and carry a poncho.
