Con Market Da Nang: A Guide to Shopping and Food

Con Market in Da Nang is one of the city’s most iconic traditional markets, known for its vibrant atmosphere, affordable street food, and variety of local products. Located in the heart of the city, it draws both locals and tourists seeking an authentic taste of central Vietnamese culture.

This guide by Your Vietnam Travel offers practical insights into what to eat, where to shop, and how to enjoy your visit to Con Market.

What is Con Market Da Nang?

Con Market Da Nang is a famous traditional market located in the heart of Da Nang City. As one of the city’s busiest and most iconic public spaces, it draws in both locals and tourists alike. The market features over 2,000 stalls spread across three floors, offering everything from fresh produce and clothing to souvenirs and household goods.

Beyond being a place to shop, Con Market is a cultural destination where visitors can immerse themselves in the flavors and rhythm of daily life in central Vietnam. It is especially famous for its affordable street food stalls that showcase authentic Vietnamese cuisine, making it a must-visit for food lovers and cultural explorers.

Con Market Da Nang is a bustling hub for shopping and street food (Source: Collected)

Where is Con Market Da Nang located?

Con Market is located at 290 Hung Vuong Street, Vinh Trung Ward, Hai Chau District, right in the center of Da Nang. It sits at the intersection of Hung Vuong and Ong Ich Khiem streets, close to key attractions and shopping areas such as the Go! Da Nang mall. This strategic location makes it highly accessible by foot, motorbike, or taxi.

The market opens daily from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM, although most vendors begin cleaning up by 6:30 PM. Outside the main building, street food vendors often continue serving well into the night, creating a lively and flavorful evening atmosphere around the market area.

History of Con Market Da Nang

Con Market was first established in 1940 as a small cluster of temporary bamboo stalls on a reedy sand dune. The name “Con” reflects the market’s original position atop a high place. During French colonial rule, the site was used as an ammunition depot before returning to its role as a trading area after liberation.

In 1984, local authorities redeveloped the market into a structured commercial center covering 14,000 square meters, including multiple market buildings. It was officially named the Danang Commercial Center, but locals continued calling it Con Market due to familiarity.

From 1990 to 2005, Con Market served as the largest wholesale and retail market in Da Nang. In 2012, plans to demolish the market for new commercial development were halted following strong public opposition, preserving its cultural and historical significance. Today, Con Market thrives as both a daily marketplace and a destination for cultural exploration.

Con Market’s rich history dates back to 1940, rooted in trade (Source: Collected)

Structure of Con Market Da Nang

Con Market is one of the most iconic markets in Da Nang. Located in the heart of the city, this bustling wholesale and retail market covers two buildings and six major zones, featuring over 2,000 stalls. From fresh produce and household essentials to authentic Vietnamese street food, Con Market offers a complete local shopping experience.

Local goods at Con Market

The outer sections of Con Market are filled with stalls selling local specialties and handmade products. Shoppers can explore a wide range of locally-grown items such as:

• Fresh coffee beans and traditional Vietnamese tea
• Regional spices, sugar, and cereals
• Handwoven baskets and artisanal goods

A few steps further leads to the fruit and vegetable zone, stocked daily with fresh tropical produce and dry foods. Visitors will also come across the wet market, where local butchers and fishmongers offer fresh cuts and seafood unique to Vietnam’s central coast.

Inside the main buildings, Con Market expands into areas selling clothing, accessories, and household items. This is a great place to shop for affordable clothes, local fabrics, or kitchen essentials, all at wholesale prices.

Local goods at Con Market (Source: Collected)

Food courts at Con Market

Con Market is widely regarded as the street food paradise of Da Nang, with indoor and outdoor food zones that draw both locals and tourists looking for affordable, authentic Vietnamese dishes.

Indoor food court

The indoor food court is clean, well-organized, and divided into sweet and savory sections. On one side, stalls serve:

• Traditional Vietnamese desserts
• Fruit-based treats like pickled toad and tamarind
• Fresh smoothies and herbal teas

The opposite side features hot dishes perfect for any main meal. Highlights include:

• Vietnamese noodles (bún, phở, miến, mì)
• Grilled pork vermicelli
• Bánh xèo (crispy pancakes), bánh bèo, bánh căn

Prices range from 15,000 to 30,000 VND ($1 - $2), offering excellent value for a full meal.

Indoor food court at Con Market (Source: Collected)

Outdoor street food area

Known as the “snack paradise” of Da Nang, the outdoor section of Con Market is perfect for a quick bite at any time of day. Popular street foods include:

• Spring rolls, bánh canh, mì Quảng
• Dried beef salad, bánh bèo, and duck eggs

For drinks, visitors can enjoy the famous cà phê sữa đá (Vietnamese iced milk coffee), banana tea, or ruby pomegranate juice. Vendors use mobile setups with simple chairs and compact booths, creating an authentic street-side dining experience that’s both affordable and flavorful.

Con Market is more than just a place to shop. It offers a true cultural experience. With a rich variety of local products, authentic Vietnamese cuisine, and affordable prices, Con Market is widely recognized as one of the best markets in Da Nang for both tourists and local residents.

Outdoor street food area at Con Market (Source: Collected)

Must-try foods at Con Market Da Nang

The dishes at Con Market are freshly prepared, deeply rooted in local culture, and ideal for both quick bites and full meals. Below is a curated list of the top dishes to try, each offering a different taste of Central Vietnam.

Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)

Price range: 20,000 - 50,000 VND (~$0.80 - $2.00)

Mi Quang is a hallmark of Quang Nam cuisine, featuring wide, flat turmeric-yellow rice noodles served with a small amount of rich, concentrated broth. Common toppings include pork, chicken, shrimp, boiled eggs, and roasted peanuts. Fresh herbs, banana blossoms, and crispy sesame rice crackers add layers of crunch and aroma. A splash of lime and chili enhances the bold, earthy flavor.

Mi Quang (Source: Collected)

Banh Xeo (Vietnamese Sizzling Pancakes)

Price range: 30,000 - 60,000 VND (~$1.20 - $2.40)

Banh Xeo is a crispy pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk, filled with shrimp, pork, and bean sprouts. It is served with a basket of local greens and rice paper. Diners wrap pieces of pancake with herbs and dip them in a tangy fish sauce. This dish is popular for its crunchy exterior and refreshing contrast from the vegetables.

Pairing Banh Xeo with Nem Lui, a type of grilled pork skewer, is a common choice. The combination offers a fuller taste experience, perfect for sharing.

Banh Xeo (Source: Collected)

Banh Bot Loc (Tapioca Dumplings with Shrimp and Pork)

Price range: 20,000 - 50,000 VND (~$0.80 - $2.00)

Banh Bot Loc is a chewy dumpling made from tapioca flour and filled with marinated shrimp and pork belly. These dumplings are usually wrapped in banana leaves and steamed or served unwrapped with scallion oil and crispy shallots. A dipping bowl of sweet and mildly spicy fish sauce completes the flavor. The texture is soft yet elastic, creating a satisfying bite that locals love.

Banh Bot Loc (Source: Collected)

Banh Canh (Thick Noodle Soup)

Price range: 20,000 - 50,000 VND (~$0.80 - $2.00)

Banh Canh is a hearty soup made with thick noodles that resemble udon and a clear or slightly thick broth. The soup base may include crab meat, pork hock, or snakehead fish, depending on the vendor. Each bowl is served hot and garnished with green onions, chili, and lime slices. The broth is mild and naturally sweet, making it a popular breakfast or light dinner choice for both visitors and locals.

Banh Canh (Source: Collected)

Nem Lui (Grilled Pork on Lemongrass Skewers)

Price range: 5,000 - 10,000 VND per skewer (~$0.20 - $0.40)

Nem Lui consists of ground pork seasoned with garlic and spices, wrapped around lemongrass stalks, and grilled over charcoal. The skewers are served with rice paper, a variety of raw vegetables, and a rich fermented anchovy sauce that is slightly sweet and nutty. Diners assemble their own rolls at the table, making it a fun and flavorful eating experience.

Nem Lui (Source: Vnexpress)

Oc Hut (Snails)

Price range: 25,000 - 50,000 VND (~$1.00 - $2.00)

Oc Hut is a popular street food dish made with small snails stir-fried in lemongrass, garlic, and chili. The dish is intensely aromatic and served with a side of chili salt and lime for dipping. Snails are eaten with toothpicks and are usually enjoyed as a snack or a side dish with iced tea or sugarcane juice. The bold seasoning and spicy heat are what make this dish a local favorite.

Oc Hut (Source: Collected)

Bun Mam Nem (Vermicelli Salad with Anchovy Sauce)

Price range: 25,000 - 40,000 VND (~$1.00 - $1.60)

This salad-style dish features rice vermicelli topped with sliced boiled pork, fermented anchovy sauce, pickled papaya, cucumber, and a variety of local herbs. The anchovy sauce has a strong flavor and is often blended with garlic, sugar, and chili to create a complex and bold taste. Bun Mam Nem is ideal for those who enjoy deeply savory dishes with vibrant contrasts in flavor and texture.

Bun Mam Nem (Source: Collected)

Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (Pork and Vegetable Rolls with Rice Paper)

Price range: 35,000 - 80,000 VND (~$1.40 - $3.20)

This dish features thinly sliced pork belly served with fresh herbs, green bananas, mango slices, and cucumber. Diners use moistened rice paper to roll their own bites and dip them into a savory-sweet anchovy-based sauce. The richness of the pork is balanced by the freshness of the vegetables and the complexity of the dipping sauce. It is often served as a full set meal that can be shared.

Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo (Source: Collected)

Che (Sweet Soups)

Price range: 10,000 - 20,000 VND (~$0.40 - $0.80)

Che refers to a wide range of traditional sweet soups that include ingredients such as mung beans, black beans, lotus seeds, jelly, sweet corn, and coconut milk. Each serving is presented in a glass or bowl and can be enjoyed hot or cold. Many versions are topped with crushed ice and drizzled with thick coconut cream. It is a refreshing way to end a savory meal at the market.

Che - Vietnamese sweet soups (Source: Collected)

Pro tips:

• Bring cash in small denominations.
• Many vendors specialize in one dish only, so you can sample multiple stalls.
• Don’t be shy to ask for recommendations or watch how dishes are prepared.
• Visit between 10 AM and 5 PM for the best variety and freshness.

Learn more: Top 25 Best Restaurants in Da Nang You Must Try

What to buy at Con Market

Con Market in Da Nang is a bustling hub for local specialties and souvenirs, offering a variety of affordable, authentic products ideal for gifts or personal enjoyment. Below are the top items to look for during your visit:

Dried seafood specialties

• Tamarind Squid (Mực Rim Me): Fresh squid simmered in a sweet, sour, and mildly spicy tamarind sauce. It’s a flavorful snack or side dish with prices ranging from 50,000 to 120,000 VND per pack. Look for trusted shops like Lan’s Tamarind Squid or supermarkets such as Thien Phu and Dai Loc Phat.
• Sun-Dried Squid (Mực Một Nắng): Squid dried under the sun once, retaining its soft texture and natural flavor. Price ranges from 150,000 to 300,000 VND per pack. Reputable brands include Ba Tam and My Hanh, known for high-quality, chewy squid with a sweet finish.
• Dried Fish (Cá Khô): Con Market features a wide selection of dried fish like anchovies, mackerel, and yellowstripe scad, seasoned and ready to cook. Ideal choices are thick, dark-yellow cuts, which indicate better marination. Pair them with local chili sauce to enhance the flavor. Prices typically fall between 80,000 and 200,000 VND per pack.

Dried seafood specialties at Con Market (Source: Collected)

Local meat products

• Beef Sausage (Chả Bò): A Da Nang specialty made from pure ground beef, offering a fragrant aroma and a chewy yet crunchy bite. Popular brands include Ba Loc, Ba Tam, and Co Hue. Expect prices from 100,000 to 250,000 VND per roll. These sausages are vacuum-packed and easy to carry home.
• Tre (Fermented Pork): A distinctive dish made from pork skin and meat, fermented with galangal and wrapped in banana leaves. It delivers a mildly sour, spicy taste. Trusted brands include Tre Ba De and Tre Ba Cuc, priced between 40,000 and 80,000 VND per roll.

Condiments and sauces

• Nam O Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm Nam Ô): Locally made with anchovies and salt, this fish sauce is a staple in Central Vietnamese cuisine, known for its deep flavor and aromatic profile.
• Fermented Shrimp Paste & Anchovy Sauce (Mắm Nêm, Mắm Ruốc): These strong-flavored condiments are essential in regional dishes but may be an acquired taste for visitors. Prices range from 30,000 to 70,000 VND per jar. Ask local vendors for guidance to choose the right type.

Snacks and beverages

• Peanut Candy (Kẹo Đậu Phộng): A crunchy snack made with roasted peanuts and malt sugar, often wrapped in rice paper. This candy makes a simple, affordable gift.
• Pineapple Ginseng Tea (Trà Sâm Dứa): An aromatic tea blend combining the freshness of pandan leaves and the sweetness of pineapple, commonly used as a relaxing herbal drink.

Shopping tip: Vendors in the dried food section frequently invite customers to sample their products. Feel free to try anything that interests you. If you're not interested, a polite refusal is perfectly acceptable and respected.

How to get to Con Market Da Nang

Con Market sits at the intersection of Ong Ich Khiem and Hung Vuong Streets in Da Nang’s city center, making it easily accessible from various parts of the city.

• From Da Nang Bus Station: Travel along Ton Duc Thang Street and pass over Nga Ba Hue Overpass. Continue straight through Dien Bien Phu and Ly Thai To Streets. The market is located at the junction of Hung Vuong and Ong Ich Khiem Streets.
• From Da Nang International Airport: Take Nguyen Tri Phuong Street and proceed through the Dien Bien Phu Tunnel. Follow Dien Bien Phu and Ly Thai To Streets until reaching the corner of Hung Vuong and Ong Ich Khiem Streets, where the market is located. The distance is approximately 2.5 km.
• By Taxi or Grab: Taxis and GrabBike services offer convenient transport options. A ride from central areas, including the airport, typically costs no more than 80,000 VND (around $4). Installing the Grab app allows you to check fares in advance and choose between car or motorbike services.

Best time to visit Con Market

Con Market operates from 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM, but its food areas follow different schedules. Indoor eateries typically open from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM, while the outdoor street food section becomes active from 3:00 PM onward.

The late afternoon is the most recommended time to visit. This is when the market reaches its peak energy, with food stalls in full swing and a lively atmosphere fueled by both locals and tourists. It's also the ideal moment to enjoy a variety of Da Nang's street food specialties in one place, especially after a day exploring the city's main attractions.

Best time to visit Con Market is late afternoon to evening (Source: Collected)

Learn more: When is the Best Time to Visit Da Nang

Tips for visiting Con Market Da Nang

A trip to Con Market can be a highlight of your time in Da Nang, especially if you enjoy local cuisine and bargain shopping. Keep the following tips in mind to make the most of your visit:

• Plan your food adventure: Con Market is a street food paradise, offering a huge variety of local dishes. To avoid getting overwhelmed, list the specialties you want to try beforehand. Prioritize must-try items like bánh bèo, mì Quảng, and chè. Arriving before 6:00 PM is ideal, as most food stalls close by 7:00 PM.
• Bargain smartly: Prices at Con Market can be marked up, particularly for tourists. It is common practice to negotiate, and vendors are usually open to it. Begin by suggesting 40% to 50% of the original asking price, especially for items such as clothing, footwear, and souvenirs. For those who are not comfortable bargaining, it’s best to shop at stalls where prices are clearly listed.
• Use the local currency: Always carry cash in Vietnamese Dong (VND). Though a few stalls may accept USD, most transactions are small and priced under 1 USD, so paying in VND is more practical and avoids confusion.
• Keep an eye on your belongings: The market is often crowded, particularly during peak hours. Be mindful of your personal items, especially wallets and phones. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and always secure your bags.
• Dress appropriately: If you plan to explore the seafood section, wear waterproof or washable footwear. The floors can be wet and slippery, so avoid sandals that might get damaged or cause you to slip.
• Shop around before buying: Many stalls sell identical items, but prices can vary. Take time to compare products and prices across multiple vendors before making a purchase. This approach not only helps you get a better deal but also gives you a clearer idea of market value.
• Buy local gifts: Con Market is an excellent place to shop for affordable gifts. Dried seafood, traditional sweets, and local clothing are popular items to bring home. Choose sealed, well-packaged products for convenience and hygiene.

FAQs about Con Market Da Nang

Are the prices at Con Market fixed or negotiable?

Prices are generally negotiable. Most vendors expect some level of bargaining, especially for non-food items.

Is Con Market suitable for families or children?

Yes. Families can enjoy local snacks, shopping, and exploring the market together. Keep an eye on children in crowded areas.

Are there souvenir shops in Con Market?

Yes. The market has many stalls selling handmade goods, dried foods, candies, and local specialties ideal for souvenirs.

Are there public restrooms inside the Con Market?

Yes. Public restrooms are available in the main building. Basic supplies like tissues and hand sanitizer are recommended.

Can I pay by card at the local Con Market, or should I bring cash?

Most vendors accept only cash. Prepare small denominations in Vietnamese Dong for easier transactions.

Conclusion

Con Market is a vibrant destination that reflects the culture and daily life of Da Nang. Visitors can explore diverse local foods, shop for unique specialties, and enjoy a lively atmosphere. A trip to this market offers an authentic taste of the city at a very reasonable cost.

For a more immersive experience in Da Nang and other top destinations across Vietnam, book a guided tour with Your Vietnam Travel. As a trusted inbound tour operator, we offer expertly crafted itineraries that help you explore local culture, cuisine, and hidden gems with ease and comfort.