When visiting Huế, a visit to Dong Ba market is a must according to those who have experienced it before. This market is not only a place to buy everyday goods and food but also offers many interesting experiences for you to explore and find gifts for your loved ones and friends. Here are some suggestions for you to have a complete experience at this market.
1. Introduction to Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba market is considered the leading traditional market in the ancient capital of Huế, shining with remarkable cultural and historical value. Initially, the market was called Quy Giả Thị, to honor the return of the Nguyen dynasty when the king returned to Phú Xuân. Since 1887, the name Dong Ba market has been officially used during the reign of King Đồng Khánh.
The name Dong Ba market has become an iconic symbol associated with the people of the ancient capital over the centuries. This market is not just an ordinary market but also a unique cultural treasure, recording the ups and downs and the development of the city.
The current location of Dong Ba market is at 2 Trần Hưng Đạo, Phú Hòa, Huế City. Situated between Gia Hoi Bridge and Trường Tiền Bridge, the market stretches along the street, creating a vibrant and unique space in the heart of the city.
2. Guide to Dong Ba market for a quick and convenient visit
Dong Ba market, located in the center of Huế City, is easily accessible from any accommodation. Here are the fastest ways to get to Dong Ba market:
2.1: Taxi:
Call a taxi from your place of stay and provide the address “Dong Ba market” (2 Trần Hưng Đạo, Phú Hòa, Huế City). The taxi will take you directly to the destination quickly and conveniently.
2.2: Motorbike/self-drive:
If you have a motorbike or a car, use a map or navigation app to route yourself to Dong Ba market. Follow Trần Hưng Đạo Street, next to Perfume River, and you will easily spot this bustling market. Please obey traffic laws and ensure safety while traveling.
2.3: Public transportation:
You can also use public buses or bicycles to reach Dong Ba market. Find out about bus routes or bike rental points near your accommodation and your destination for a convenient journey.
Note: The route may change due to traffic conditions and local circumstances. Check for updates and adhere to traffic regulations to ensure safety when going to Dong Ba market.
3. Ideal time to visit Dong Ba market
Fully enjoy Dong Ba market: Choose the ideal time and explore local specialties
Regardless of the time, Dong Ba market is always bustling with buyers and sellers, offering a diverse range of products from food to goods and essentials. However, based on experience, it is recommended to visit the market from around 3 PM onwards. At this time, the weather is pleasant, cool, and the crowd is not too crowded, providing convenient conditions for exploration.
Especially, this time is when many snack stalls start operating, creating a lively and attractive atmosphere. You can leisurely stroll through the market, visit the stalls, and enjoy unique local specialties here.
Therefore, choose a time from around 3 PM onwards to fully enjoy Dong Ba market, explore every corner of the market, and savor the excellent local specialties it offers.
4. Explore the unique design of different areas in Dong Ba Market, Hue
Dong Ba Market in Hue is uniquely designed and divided into separate areas, creating diversity and attraction for visitors. When you enter the market, the central area is a 3-story building called “Bell Tower,” and surrounding it are U-shaped houses.
The third floor of the market is the first point you will discover. This is where you can find fabrics, clothes, and especially carefully selected beautiful fabrics for making ao dai, the traditional Vietnamese dress. It is an ideal choice if you want to buy gifts for grandmothers or mothers.
Next, when you go down to the second floor, you will be captivated by exquisite handicrafts. Here, you can find conical hats with poems, precious jewelry such as lưu đỉnh (a traditional hairpin), scissors, pottery from Phuoc Tich village, utensils made from bamboo, and many other souvenirs to buy.
The first floor is the area for dried seafood from the Central region and Hue’s specialties like fermented shrimp paste (mam ruoc) and shrimp paste (mam nem). The vendors here are enthusiastic and dedicated, ready to advise you on buying a jar of delicious shrimp paste as a gift.
The unique and diverse design of different areas in Dong Ba Market creates an interesting space to explore and experience the local shopping culture.
5. Discover the enticing menu at Dong Ba Market
Hue Dong Ba Market in Hue is not only famous for its diverse merchandise but also a culinary paradise with delicious dishes that have the distinctive taste of Hue. Below are the must-try dishes when visiting Dong Ba Market:
5.1: Bun Bo:
Hue-style beef noodle soup is one of the characteristic dishes that you cannot miss in Hue. You can find bun bo in the small alleys of Dong Ba Market at prices ranging from 15,000-20,000 VND per bowl.
5.2: Nem Lui Hue:
Nem lui is a specialty dish from the Central region, consisting of flavorful grilled meat wrapped in banana leaves, served with rice paper and fresh vegetables. Visit the stalls across the street to enjoy nem lui at Dong Ba Market, with a price of around 50,000 VND for a serving for two people.
5.3: Banh Bot Loc:
Hue-style clear dumplings at Dong Ba Market carry the traditional taste, delicious and affordable, costing only around 15,000-20,000 VND per serving, enough to satisfy your hunger in the afternoon.
5.4: Che:
At Dong Ba Market, you can find numerous stalls serving various versions of Hue’s dessert, che. You can indulge in green bean che, black bean che, tofu che, corn che, lotus seed che, and many other types of che. With prices ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 VND per glass, Hue’s che at Dong Ba Market will be a delicious and refreshing treat during hot summer days.
5.5: Bun Tom Chua:
Bun Tom Chua, once considered a luxurious dish, has now become a popular and affordable dish, costing around 20,000 VND per bowl. A complete bowl of bun tom chua includes thinly sliced shrimp meat, fresh vegetables, and the distinctive sour taste from fermented shrimp paste and flavorful broth.
Enjoy the local specialties at Dong Ba Market, Hue, and explore the rich flavors of Hue’s cuisine.
6, Unique gift options at Dong Ba Market
Hue In addition to the delicious local specialties available for immediate enjoyment at Dong Ba Market, you can also purchase excellent specialty items as gifts. Dong Ba Market is famous for dried seafood such as dried fish, dried shrimp, dried squid, etc. The excellent quality of these products will satisfy the recipients and provide a unique experience of Hue’s cuisine.
Moreover, don’t miss the opportunity to taste the famous and delicious shrimp paste varieties such as fermented shrimp paste, clam shrimp paste, shrimp roe shrimp paste, etc. These are special products of Hue, with unique flavors that make interesting gifts for family and friends.
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Dong Ba Market, Hue! Discover the authentic flavors and rich culture that will leave you in awe. Don’t miss out on this incredible experience – book your Hue tour package now with Origin Travel and immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam’s cultural heritage. Uncover the hidden gems, savor the traditional delicacies, and create memories that will last a lifetime. It’s time to embrace the magic of Dong Ba Market and indulge in an adventure like no other!
