1. Where is Da Lat Night Market? How to get there?
Da Lat Night Market is situated near the picturesque Xuan Huong Lake, which is also considered the city center. You will find it at Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ward 1, Da Lat City, Lam Dong Province, Vietnam. Its prime location makes it a must-visit for tourists seeking a taste of Da Lat’s vibrant culture.
Getting here is a breeze. If you are already in Da Lat, you can stroll over if you are nearby, hail a taxi or use a ride-hailing service like Grab, hop on a motorbike, or check if your hotel provides a shuttle service. For those coming from outside the city, buses to the central bus station are available, followed by a short journey using one of the above-mentioned transportation options. Alternatively, you can arrange for a private car ride or join a tour that includes transportation to the market.
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2. What time is Da Lat Night Market open?
Da Lat Night Market is a bustling hub of activity day and night, serving as the largest trading center in the city. Here’s a breakdown of its operating hours:
- Morning trade: From 1:00 AM to 9:00 AM, the market is abuzz with vendors selling fresh produce and food stalls serving early customers. By midday, the market experiences a lull in activity until around 4 or 5 in the afternoon when a new round of trading begins.
- Evening market: As its name suggests, the real action at Da Lat Night Market kicks off in the evening. At around 6:00 PM, clothing stalls and food vendors start opening up. Evenings, especially on Saturdays around 7 – 8 PM, witness a surge in visitors, with the market bustling with activity. It’s a lively atmosphere where people from all walks of life mingle, creating a vibrant ambiance.
- Closing time: By around 10:00 PM, most clothing stalls close up shop but the food stalls continue to serve hungry visitors. Around 2:00 AM, the market transitions into a trading ground for wholesale merchants, making it an opportune time for early risers to shop for fresh goods. By 6 or 7 in the morning, the trading activities wind down, signaling the end of another bustling night at Da Lat Night Market.
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3. Things to do at Da Lat Night Market
3.1. Enjoy plenty of street foods
At Da Lat Night Market, you are in for a treat with an array of tantalizing street foods to savor:
- Grilled skewers (xien nuong): Meats or vegetables skewered and grilled to perfection, offering a delightful smoky flavor.
- Grilled rice paper (banh trang nuong): Crispy rice paper topped with savory ingredients like minced meat, creating a delightful crunch with every bite.
- Grilled corn and potatoes (bap khoai nuong): Sweet corn and potatoes grilled to perfection, offering a comforting snack.
- Crab soup (sup cua): A flavorful soup made with fresh crab meat, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, offering a taste of the sea.
- Tube cake (banh ong): A sweet and fluffy cake with a hollow center, perfect for filling with custard or jam.
- Sticky rice with hollow donuts (xoi banh tieu): Glutinous rice served within crispy hollow donuts, creating a delightful contrast of textures.
- Soy milk (sua dau nanh): A refreshing and nutritious beverage made from soybeans, perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day.
- Cheese yogurt (sua chua pho mai): Creamy yogurt infused with the rich flavor of cheese, offering an indulgent treat.
- Avocado ice cream (kem bo): Creamy ice cream with avocado, offering a refreshing dessert with a hint of tropical flavor.
- Fresh strawberry shake (dau lac): A refreshing blend of fresh strawberries, ice, and milk, creating a creamy shake perfect for cooling off.
3.2. Buy dried fruits and other specialties
At Da Lat Night Market, besides indulging in delicious street foods, you can also explore a variety of local specialties:
- Da Lat is renowned for its abundance of fresh fruits, many of which are dried to preserve their flavor. You will find an assortment of dried fruits such as strawberries, pineapples, bananas, and mangoes.
- Da Lat is also known for its coffee and tea production. You can browse through a variety of locally produced coffee beans and tea leaves, each offering a distinct flavor profile influenced by the region’s fertile soil and temperate climate.
- Don’t miss the chance to sample other specialties such as dried meat, roasted chestnuts, jam, and wine. These savory and sweet treats showcase the region’s culinary diversity and make for tasty delights to enjoy during your travels.
3.3. Buy wool clothings and souvenirs
Da Lat Night Market is also a haven for shopping enthusiasts seeking unique wool clothing and souvenirs:
- Wool clothing: Da Lat’s cool climate makes it an ideal location for producing high-quality wool clothing. You can browse through an array of cozy sweaters, scarves, hats, and gloves, all crafted from locally sourced wool. These items not only provide warmth but also showcase the region’s rich textile heritage.
- Handwoven textiles: Admire the intricate handwoven textiles made by skilled artisans from the ethnic minority communities surrounding Da Lat. From vibrant tapestries and tablecloths to intricately patterned shawls and blankets, these textiles make for beautiful gifts.
- Souvenirs and trinkets: Browse through a variety of souvenirs and trinkets to commemorate your visit to Da Lat. Choose from keychains, magnets, postcards, and ornaments adorned with iconic symbols of the city. These small keepsakes are perfect for preserving memories of your time in Da Lat.
3.4. Take photos at scenic corners
Da Lat Night Market is not just about shopping and dining; it is also a treasure trove of picturesque corners perfect for capturing memorable photos. Don’t miss out on these hot coordinates for your ultimate photospree:
- The pedestrian staircase: Take your photography game up a notch by capturing the breathtaking view from the pedestrian staircase leading from the Hoa Binh area down to the bustling night market. The descending steps offer a picturesque setting with a charming urban backdrop, perfect for striking poses and capturing candid moments.
- The entrance gate: Make a grand entrance at Da Lat Night Market by snapping photos at the iconic entrance gate. Adorned with vibrant colors, the gate serves as a captivating backdrop for memorable photos. Whether you are posing solo or with friends, this spot is sure to add a touch of charm to your collection.
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4. Important notes while visiting Da Lat Night Market
When visiting Da Lat Night Market, it is essential to keep a few important notes in mind to ensure a smooth experience:
- Cash is king: While some vendors may accept card payments, it is advisable to carry cash as many stalls prefer cash transactions. Additionally, smaller denominations are handy for making purchases and bargaining.
- Bargain with respect: Haggling is a common practice at the market, but remember to bargain respectfully. Aim for a fair price, keeping in mind the vendor’s livelihood. A friendly attitude goes a long way in negotiations.
- Watch your belongings: Like any crowded tourist spot, Da Lat Night Market can attract pickpockets. Keep your belongings secure at all times, preferably in a crossbody bag or a money belt, and remain vigilant.
- Dress appropriately: Da Lat’s weather can be unpredictable, with cool evenings even in warmer months. Dress in layers and bring a light jacket or sweater to stay comfortable as the temperatures drop after sunset.
In addition to exploring Da Lat Night Market, don’t miss out on other exciting nighttime attractions such as Xuan Huong Lake and Lam Vien Square.
Da Lat Night Market is a symbol of Da Lat’s cultural richness and community spirit. From its aromatic street food to its bustling atmosphere, the market offers a captivating glimpse into the heart and soul of this picturesque city in Vietnam. Whether you are indulging in local delicacies, hunting for unique souvenirs, or simply immersing yourself in the lively ambiance, Da Lat Night Market promises an unforgettable experience.
Besides Da Lat, you can visit night markets in Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, etc. Each of these destinations offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich culture and warm hospitality.
Besides, you can get your daily dose of entertainment at VinWonders, which feature games, shows, and more. There is no shortage of fun things to do at VinWonders. Meanwhile, Vinpearl serves as an ideal base for your trips, where you can choose from a selection of well-equipped rooms and enjoy world-class amenities.
Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park for entertainment in Vietnam!