Shopping tours in Northern Vietnam cut straight to the heart of local culture. The best experiences center around two standout markets: Can Cau and Bac Ha, where authentic handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce fill the stalls. We love the single-day market tours with air-conditioned transport – they’re practical, well-organized, and come with knowledgeable English-speaking guides. Multi-day options work well for travelers wanting to combine several market stops. Our favorite tours mix comfort with genuine culture, letting you experience the real Vietnam without tourist traps. Check out these top shopping tours that showcase the best of Northern Vietnam’s markets.
Good To Know
- Vibrant markets in Northern Vietnam offer immersive cultural experiences, showcasing local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce.
- Market-specific tours provide air-conditioned transport, English-speaking guides, and convenient experiences tailored to different interests and fitness levels.
- Extended tours and packages combine market visits with accommodation, meals, and transportation, allowing for deeper cultural exploration.
- Trekking tours connect markets like Bac Ha and Can Cau, offering an active and adventurous way to experience the local culture.
- Tours generally require a moderate fitness level and may not be suitable for individuals with physical limitations or certain health conditions.
Can Cau Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
The Can Cau Market Full Day Tour from Sapa takes visitors on an immersive journey to explore the vibrant cultural tapestry of Northern Vietnam.
Priced from $131.62 per person, the private tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and lunch at a local restaurant.
Travelers can expect to see the bustling Can Cau Market, take a boat ride on the Chay River, and enjoy the stunning natural scenery.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, and a moderate fitness level is required.
Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a reserve now, pay later option is available.
Read our full review: Can Cau Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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Lung Khau Nhin Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
Although similar to the Can Cau Market tour, the Lung Khau Nhin Market Full Day Tour from Sapa offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant culture and traditions of Northern Vietnam.
Priced from SEK 1,263 per person, this private tour includes a boat ride on the Chay River, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and transportation.
Not recommended for those with medical conditions or limited mobility, the tour requires a moderate fitness level.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours before, it provides flexibility.
Travelers can explore the bustling market, interact with local vendors, and enjoy the region’s captivating atmosphere.
Read our full review: Lung Khau Nhin Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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Bac Ha Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
Venturing beyond the Lung Khau Nhin Market, the Bac Ha Market Full Day Tour from Sapa offers travelers a captivating look into the vibrant cultural tapestry of northern Vietnam.
Priced from $112.83 per person, this private tour immerses guests in the bustling atmosphere of the Bac Ha Market, where they can browse a diverse array of local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce.
The tour includes a boat ride on the Chay River, a local lunch, and an English-speaking guide.
Travelers should note the moderate physical fitness required and that the tour isn’t suitable for those with certain health conditions.
With convenient pickup locations and an early start time, this excursion provides an authentic shopping experience in Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Bac Ha Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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Bac Ha Market on Wheels 2 Days
Travelers seeking an immersive cultural experience can embark on the Bac Ha Market on Wheels, a 2-day excursion that showcases the vibrant markets and picturesque landscapes of Northern Vietnam.
This private tour includes accommodation, meals, an English-speaking guide, and transportation. Participants will explore the bustling Bac Ha Market and surrounding villages by bike, taking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the region.
The tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or limited mobility, and infants must sit on laps. Prices start from €306.37 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: Bac Ha Market on Wheels 2 Days Review
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Cat Ba Cooking Class Go to Market With Seafood From Cat Ba Town
The Cat Ba Cooking Class offers an immersive opportunity for visitors to explore the local market, source fresh seafood, and learn the art of Vietnamese cuisine in the scenic setting of Cat Ba Town.
Operated by Vietnam Blue Tours, the experience starts with a trip to the town’s market, where guests can browse the vibrant stalls and select seafood.
Next, they’ll participate in a hands-on cooking class, guided by a local expert. The class includes a pickup and drop-off service, breakfast, and lunch.
At just $83.34 per person, with a maximum group size of 15, this tour provides an authentic and affordable culinary adventure in Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: Cat Ba Cooking Class Go to Market With Seafood From Cat Ba Town Review
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3 Days Lao Cai – Lung Khau Nhin Market – Cao Son – Chay River – Sapa
This 3-day tour begins in Lao Cai, where participants explore the vibrant Lung Khau Nhin market.
From there, they’ll journey to Cao Son and the Chay River, offering boat rides if available.
The tour then continues to the picturesque town of Sapa.
Accommodation is provided in double or twin-sharing rooms with breakfast. Meals include 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners.
An English-speaking guide accompanies the group, and entrance fees are covered.
The tour doesn’t recommend travelers with certain medical conditions, and a moderate fitness level is required.
Pickup is available, and free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: 3 Days Lao Cai – Lung Khau Nhin Market – Cao Son – Chay River – Sapa Review
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Muong Khuong Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
After exploring the Lung Khau Nhin market, the tour then ventures to the vibrant Muong Khuong market located in northern Vietnam.
This private full-day tour from Sapa provides an immersive experience, with a local English-speaking guide leading the way. Travelers can expect to visit the bustling market, enjoy a local lunch, and potentially take a boat ride on the Chay River.
The tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and water, making it a convenient and comprehensive way to experience the region’s culture and scenery.
With a moderate fitness level required, this tour isn’t recommended for those with health issues or limited mobility.
Read our full review: Muong Khuong Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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Coc Ly Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
A fantastic opportunity for travelers to enjoy the vibrant culture of northern Vietnam, the Coc Ly Market Full Day Tour from Sapa offers an unforgettable experience.
Priced from $112.83 per person, this tour takes visitors to the Coc Ly Market, a bustling hub where locals gather to buy and sell a variety of goods.
Included in the tour are a boat ride on the Chay River, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, and a delicious local lunch.
Moderate physical fitness is required, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions or for pregnant travelers.
Pickup is available, and the tour runs from 8:00 am.
Read our full review: Coc Ly Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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3 Days Lao Cai – Cao Son – Cao Son Market – Sapa – Lao Cai
On this 3-day tour, travelers will journey from Lao Cai to the vibrant Cao Son Market, before heading to the scenic town of Sapa.
The tour includes accommodation, meals, transportation, and an English-speaking guide. Highlights include a boat ride on the Chay River (if available) and visiting local attractions.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with health concerns, and a moderate level of fitness is required.
Pickup is at 8 am from a selected location, and the tour is fully refundable up to 24 hours before the start time.
Prices start at $381.20 per person, varying by group size, with the lowest price guaranteed.
Read our full review: 3 Days Lao Cai – Cao Son – Cao Son Market – Sapa – Lao Cai Review
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3-Day Lao Cai – Cao Son – Muong Khuong Market – Sapa – Lao Cai
The tour commences with a visit to the bustling Cao Son Market, where travelers can enjoy the vibrant local culture and browse the diverse array of goods on display.
Next, they’ll head to the Muong Khuong Market, a renowned shopping destination renowned for its authentic handicrafts, textiles, and agricultural products.
After exploring the market, the group will continue to Sapa, a picturesque town nestled in the mountainous region. Here, they’ll have the opportunity to interact with the local ethnic minority communities and learn about their traditional ways of life.
Finally, the tour concludes with the return journey to Lao Cai, providing a well-rounded shopping experience in Northern Vietnam.
Read our full review: 3-Day Lao Cai – Cao Son – Muong Khuong Market – Sapa – Lao Cai Review
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3 Days Lao Cai – Cao Son- Lung Khau Nhin Market – Sapa – Lao Cai
Commencing the 3-day tour, travelers venture from Lao Cai to the vibrant Cao Son Market, seeing the local culture and exploring the diverse array of goods.
Next, they visit the bustling Lung Khau Nhin Market, where they can bargain for unique handicrafts, textiles, and ethnic minority products.
The tour then proceeds to Sapa, where travelers can admire the stunning mountain scenery and learn about the traditional lifestyles of the local hill tribes.
Throughout the journey, the air-conditioned vehicle and English-speaking guide ensure a comfortable and informative experience.
At the end of the tour, participants return to Lao Cai, their memories filled with the sights, sounds, and flavors of Northern Vietnam’s vibrant markets.
Read our full review: 3 Days Lao Cai – Cao Son- Lung Khau Nhin Market – Sapa – Lao Cai Review
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Trekking Bac Ha – Can Cau Market 2 Days 1 Nights
After exploring the vibrant markets of Cao Son and Lung Khau Nhin, travelers embark on a captivating 2-day trek that takes them from Bac Ha to the renowned Can Cau Market.
This private tour includes door-to-door pick-up, all transfers, an English-speaking guide, and accommodations with meals.
Highlights include visiting the colorful Bac Ha market and the lively Can Cau market, where locals gather to trade goods.
The tour is available year-round and priced from €312.20 per person.
While not recommended for those with mobility or health issues, most travelers can participate.
Cancellations and rescheduling are free up to 3 days in advance, offering flexibility.
Read our full review: Trekking Bac Ha – Can Cau Market 2 Days 1 Nights Review
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Muong Hum Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
This full-day tour to Muong Hum Market from Sapa, Northern Vietnam, offers travelers an immersive cultural experience. Priced from $112.83 per person, the private tour ensures an exclusive experience.
Travelers will enjoy a boat ride on the Chay River, if applicable, and entrance fees are included. A local English-speaking guide accompanies the group, and lunch at a local restaurant is provided.
Transport is by air-conditioned vehicle. However, the tour isn’t suitable for those with medical conditions or accessibility needs. A moderate fitness level is required.
Pickup points are available, and the tour starts at 8 AM, situated near public transportation.
Read our full review: Muong Hum Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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Cao Son Market Full Day Tour From Sapa
Travelers on the Cao Son Market Full Day Tour from Sapa can enjoy the vibrant local culture and traditions of Northern Vietnam.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, lunch at a local restaurant, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle. Visitors will explore the bustling Cao Son Market, where they can browse handcrafted goods and interact with friendly vendors.
The tour also features a boat ride on the Chay River, allowing participants to take in the scenic landscapes. While the tour isn’t recommended for those with physical limitations, moderately fit travelers can enjoy this comprehensive cultural experience.
The full-day tour is priced from $121.36 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Read our full review: Cao Son Market Full Day Tour From Sapa Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions for Market Tours?
Travellers should be aware of their surroundings, keep valuables secure, and avoid crowded areas. It’s also important to respect local customs and traditions during market tours. Following these safety precautions can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can I Arrange a Private Tour for My Group?
Yes, you can arrange a private tour for your group. Many tour operators offer customized market tours that cater to your group’s specific needs and interests. This can provide a more personalized and flexible shopping experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Market Tours?
There are typically no age restrictions for market tours, though parents should supervise young children. Most tour operators welcome all ages and can accommodate families. It’s best to check with the specific tour company for any policies.
How Do I Dress Appropriately for Market Visits?
When visiting markets, it’s best to dress comfortably and modestly. Avoid overly revealing or flashy clothing, and opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics suitable for the climate. This helps you blend in and respect the local culture.
Can I Bring My Own Camera for the Tours?
Yes, you can bring your own camera for the tours. Most tour companies allow and even encourage visitors to take photos during the market visits to capture the vibrant local scenes and purchases.
The Sum Up
Northern Vietnam offers a diverse range of shopping tours, from the bustling Can Cau Market to the vibrant Bac Ha Market. Travelers can explore local markets, attend cooking classes, and trek through scenic landscapes. These tours provide an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to engage with the local community and discover the region’s unique handicrafts and produce. Whether you’re seeking a full-day adventure or a multi-day exploration, Northern Vietnam’s shopping tours cater to a variety of interests and preferences.