While the ethnic weekend markets like Bac Ha are famous, don't overlook the daily Sapa Town Market (Cho Sapa or Central Market). Located in a modern building near the bus station, this market operates daily (busiest in the mornings) and serves both locals and tourists. The ground floor typically features fresh produce, meats (including local specialties like black chicken or buffalo meat), and food stalls, while the upper floor focuses on clothing, colourful Sapa brocade, and handicrafts.
Although it might lack the raw atmosphere of the periodic rural markets, the Sapa market provides a convenient place to shop for local products, sample snacks, observe daily commerce, and find Sapa souvenirs any day of the week.