Hom – Duc Vien Market is one of Hanoi’s oldest and most well-known traditional markets. Located at the bustling intersection of Pho Hue, Tran Xuan Soan, and Tran Nhan Tong streets in Hai Ba Trung District, the market sits in one of the most prime locations in the capital.

Today, Hom Market retains a blend of old-world charm and modern commerce, with five entrance gates and a two-story layout.

The first floor is divided into two sections: one selling fashion items such as clothes, shoes, and bags, and another dedicated to fresh produce, dried goods, and flowers.

The second floor is a paradise for fabric lovers, offering a vast selection of textiles ranging from affordable to high-end materials, including clothing fabric, curtain fabric, and bedding textiles.

A hidden shopping gem in Hanoi

Once a bustling commercial hub often referred to as a “shopping paradise” in the capital, Hom Market market has seen a decline in foot traffic in recent years. Today, it primarily attracts tourists seeking a glimpse of Hanoi’s traditional market culture.

Anais Rigal, a fashion professional from Dubai, recently visited Hom Market market and was both overwhelmed and fascinated by its unique shopping experience.

"The stalls are packed so tightly with goods that it can feel overwhelming, making it difficult to stop and browse properly," Anais shared.

"On my first visit, I couldn’t decide on anything because the fabrics were stacked too densely, and I couldn’t see what I needed. But on my second visit, I came more prepared and found exactly what I wanted."

Anais was particularly intrigued by the shopping etiquette at Hom Market. Unlike in other markets where vendors often call out to customers or try to push sales aggressively, she noticed that shopkeepers at Hom Market remained reserved, only engaging when approached by a buyer.

"I was surprised that no one tried to pressure me into buying anything. While the sellers seemed indifferent at first, once I showed interest, they were incredibly patient and even suggested different fabric samples that fit my criteria," she said.

Her trip to Hom Market proved successful as she selected seven pieces of linen fabric, both for personal use and as gifts for her family and friends back Hom Markete.

A hidden street food haven inside Hom Market market

Though primarily known as a fabric market, Hom Market surprises many visitors - especially foreigners - with its vibrant food stalls.

Despite its modest size, the market’s central food court offers a variety of traditional Hanoi street foods, including spring rolls, papaya salad with dried beef (nom bo kho), pho, noodle soup, and sticky rice cakes.

With meals ranging from 15,000 to 40,000 VND ($0.60 to $1.60) per dish, the market is a popular spot for locals, students, and tourists alike.

For around 100,000 VND ($4), visitors can enjoy a fulfilling meal, such as:

A plate of banh bot loc (Vietnamese tapioca dumplings) for 60,000 VND ($2.50)

Goi cuon (Vietnamese fresh spring rolls) for 20,000 VND ($0.80) per roll

A cup of che thap cam (Vietnamese mixed sweet soup) for 20,000 VND ($0.80)

Beyond the market: Discovering Hanoi’s local flavors

Beyond the main market, the surrounding streets offer even more culinary delights.

At the Pho Hue entrance, vendors specialize in selling banh gio (Vietnamese pyramid dumplings), available year-round.

Along Tran Xuan Soan Street, visitors will find traditional sau dam (preserved dracontomelon fruit), dried candied fruits (o mai), and seasonal sweet soups (che).

For travelers visiting Hanoi, Hom – Duc Vien Market is more than just a shopping stop - it’s a cultural experience. Whether you’re looking for high-quality fabrics or a taste of authentic street food, this historic market offers a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant market life.

Thao Trinh