Discovered as a resort for French officers in the early 1900s, Da Lat is like a mini-sized Europe where people come to find their inner peace. However, that is only a facet of the city as Da Lat could simultaneously be vibrant and tranquil at night. Read on to see our list of top things to do in Da Lat nightlife.
Have a Food Tour around the “Hell” Market (Da Lat Night Market)
When the sun goes down, and the lights go up, numerous Da Lat dwellers and visitors gather at the prominent Hell Market. Despite its distinctive name, the place has no connection with the afterlife. This street food heaven has famous snacks such as Banh Trang Nuong (Vietnamese pizza), grilled sweet potatoes, skewers, crab soup, etc. If you’re not fond of these savory dishes, choose a soya milk stall, take a seat, and enjoy your drink while watching the flow of people.
Tips:
- Ask or check the price on the menu before ordering. Some vendors might take advantage of you to give an exorbitant price.
- Keep an eye on your belongings. The market is super crowded.
- Some groups wearing funny costumes may invite you to take pictures with them and then charge you without informing you about the price beforehand. We recommend avoiding this service.
Seek Second-hand Items at Da Lat Old Market
For a more local experience, visit the Da Lat Old Market, where you will see locals rummaging through a plethora of used items. If you are a vintage fan who is willing to immerse yourself in a crowd, why not try seeking some second-hand outfits? Da Lat is home to quality crochet and knitted items and winter clothing.
Address: The junction of Hoa Binh Area and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Ward 1
Opening hours: 5 PM – 9 PM
Tips:
- Ask locals to show you the directions to the market.
- Check the quality of every item carefully. Use your smartphone’s flashlight if necessary.
- Always bargain before buying. The final price should be half or a third of the original price.
- Be careful with your belongings. There might be pickpockets in the crowd.
Chill at a Bar/Pub
The chilly air of Da Lat at night may urge you to grab a drink. Unlike Saigon, the city has yet to offer top-notch sky bars and dance clubs, but it does provide cozy bars and pubs where you can have small talk while sipping a cocktail.
Heyla Cocktail Bar
Going with a group of friends? Heyla is where you should head! With various games, including darts, billiards, and table soccer, Heyla has what it takes to make your night unforgettable.
Address: 10 Tan Da, Ward 6
Opening hours: 5 PM – 12 AM
Fox’s Den
Tranquil and aesthetic – that’s how we describe Fox’s Den. Hidden behind an avocado tree, the bar is a serene oasis for those looking for a retreat after tirelessly working. The menu is written in English, so you will have no problems ordering your favorite drink.
Address: 56 Tang Bat Ho Street, Ward 1
Opening hours: 6 PM -12 AM
The Escape Bar
This 1970s-style bar offers live music from 9 PM to midnight every Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. The genres vary, from country and blues to rock ‘n’ roll and reggae. The band usually covers immortal English songs like Lemon Tree (Fool’s Garden), Mercy (Duffy), Careless Whisper (George Michael), etc.
Address: Golf Valley Hotel 94 Bui Thi Xuan Street, Ward 1
Opening hours: 10 AM – 11:45 PM
Promenade around Xuan Huong Lake
The heart of Da Lat—Xuan Huong Lake—is poetic in the daytime and miraculous at night! When the lights reflect on the lake’s surface, the scene is like stars sparkling in the mysterious night sky.
Stroll through the Western Street (Truong Cong Dinh Street)
Though Truong Cong Dinh Street is only 1 kilometer long, it is packed with European-style restaurants and is frequented by numerous foreign tourists and backpackers. If you want to chat and get to know more traveler friends, you know where to go now!
Final Thoughts on Top Things to Do in Da Lat at Night
Da Lat at night is not as colorful as Da Nang or Hue nightlife, Da Lat at night, it is attractive in its unique way. There are plenty of crowded places where you can have a closer look at the liveliness of local activities, but at the same time, there are quiet corners to calm our busy minds.
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