Iconic night markets from around the world

Once the sun sets, the unsuspecting streets that were quiet during daytime turns into one of the busiest places you will ever visit. Night markets, for as long as one can remember, are some of the most fun and exciting places one can visit.

A lot of people around the globe choose night markets to unwind and relax with some good food and fun shopping. And why not? These markets are affordable, a perfect place to try good local food, a great opportunity to interact with the locals and, most importantly, more often than not, you come out with very interesting purchases that you won’t find anywhere else.

These iconic night markets from around the world can be your new travel inspiration.

This market is easily one of the oldest markets in Taiwan. Built in 1899, the Shilin Night Market is one of the largest night markets in the capital city of Taipei. Spread across several blocks, the market is a popular destination for local cuisine. There are over 500 food stalls one can explore.

The Petaling Street Market in Kuala Lumpur is also open during the daytime. Night is pretty here because that's when the traditional lamps come out. The market is also known as the local Chinatown.

Dongdaemun market in the capital city of Seoul is as busy as they come. Locals and visitors throng this market for clothes shopping (wholesale!). The market’s history dates back to 1905, but sometime during the Korean War, the market was destroyed. However, the new one that came up in its place continued with the old tradition of being amazing. The market stays open from 8 AM to 2 AM.

Have you ever eaten at a communal table? Here at Marrakech Night Market, one can do that. Come for charming trinkets and stay for the food. The market is a foodie’s haven. It stays open till 1 AM in summer. The Marrakech Night Market is also a great place to experience traditional Moroccan cultural shows. You will not have a single dull moment here.

Polish your haggling skills before you enter this market. The better you bargain, the more unique stuff you will walk out with. The Luang Prabang Night Market is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Laos. And rightly so. The market is famous for local handicrafts. The market opens at 5pm and closes at 11 PM.

It’s a whole other side of Hong Kong here at the Temple Street Night Market. Dai pai dong or the food stalls are popular no doubt, but the biggest USP of this market is the massive collection of souvenir items and unique traditional Chinese arts and crafts products.

Dating back to 1912, the Ben Thanh Night Market is an important part of Vietnam’s history. Located in Ho Chi Minh City, the market attracts thousands of visitors. As soon as the day market closes, the night market starts, from 6 PM to 11 PM. Come here for Vietnamese souvenirs. Local handicrafts and food are great here.

Taman Connaught Pasar Malam is also the longest night market in Malaysia. Spread over two kilometres, this market has approximately 700 stalls selling all kinds of Thai products. You will surely need to stop and eat at some point while exploring this two-kilometre market.