Con Market Da Nang: Food, Shopping & Visitor Guide

2026-05-06 17322 views  
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Con Market is one of the most well-known traditional markets in central Vietnam, located in the heart of Da Nang. As a lively commercial hub, it attracts both residents and visitors with its dense network of over 2,000 stalls spread across multiple levels. Here, you can find everything from fresh ingredients and clothing to souvenirs and everyday household items.

More than a shopping venue, Con Market reflects the daily rhythm and culinary culture of the region. It is particularly popular for its affordable street food, where local dishes are prepared fresh throughout the day. This combination of food, commerce, and local life makes it a rewarding stop for travelers interested in authentic experiences.

In this guide, Your Vietnam Travel provides practical information on what to eat, what to buy, and how to make the most of your visit.

Where is Con Market Da Nang?

Con Market is located at 290 Hung Vuong Street, near the intersection of Hung Vuong and Ong Ich Khiem streets in central Da Nang. It is commonly associated with the former Vinh Trung Ward area and is within easy reach of Hai Chau and Thanh Khe central districts.

Con Market generally opens from around 7:00 AM to 7:30 PM, though some vendors may start earlier or close before the official closing time. Food stalls around the market can stay open later, especially in the late afternoon and evening.

Con Market Da Nang

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

History of Con Market Da Nang

Con Market dates back to 1940, when it began as a cluster of temporary bamboo stalls on a sandy mound. The name “Con” refers to this elevated terrain. During the French colonial period, the site was repurposed as an ammunition storage area before eventually returning to its original function as a marketplace.

In 1984, the area was redeveloped into a formal commercial complex covering approximately 14,000 square meters. Although it was officially named the Danang Commercial Center, locals continued to use the familiar name Con Market.

Between 1990 and 2005, the market played a key role as the largest wholesale and retail center in Da Nang. In 2012, redevelopment plans were proposed but later suspended due to public opposition, allowing the market to retain its cultural identity. Today, it continues to operate as both a functional marketplace and a place of local heritage.

Structure of Con Market Da Nang

Con Market is organized into two main buildings and several distinct zones, accommodating more than 2,000 vendors. The layout includes sections for fresh produce, dry goods, clothing, and prepared food, making it a comprehensive destination for both shopping and dining.

Local goods at Con Market

The outer areas of the market feature stalls selling regional specialties and handmade items. Visitors can browse a wide selection of locally sourced products, including:

  • Fresh coffee beans and traditional Vietnamese tea
  • Spices, sugar, and grains from central Vietnam
  • Handcrafted baskets and artisanal goods

Nearby, the fresh food section offers tropical fruits, vegetables, and dried ingredients replenished daily. The wet market area includes seafood and meat vendors supplying products typical of the central coast.

Inside the main buildings, the market expands into sections dedicated to clothing, accessories, and household items. Prices are generally affordable, with many goods available at wholesale rates, making it a practical place for budget shopping.

Local goods at Con Market

Local goods at Con Market (Source: Collected)

Food courts at Con Market

Indoor food court

The indoor dining area is structured and relatively clean, divided into sweet and savory sections. One side focuses on desserts and drinks, including:

  • Traditional Vietnamese sweets
  • Pickled fruit snacks
  • Smoothies and herbal beverages

The other side serves hot dishes suitable for full meals, such as:

  • Noodle dishes (bún, phở, miến, mì)
  • Grilled pork with vermicelli
  • Bánh xèo, bánh bèo, and bánh căn

Prices typically range from 15,000 to 30,000 VND, making it an economical option for local cuisine.

Indoor food court at Con Market

Indoor food court at Con Market (Source: Collected)

Outdoor street food area

The outdoor section is more informal and is often described as a street food hotspot. It is ideal for quick snacks and casual dining throughout the day. Common dishes include:

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

For drinks, visitors can try Vietnamese iced coffee, banana tea, or fresh fruit beverages. Vendors operate with simple setups, creating a lively and authentic street-side experience.

Food area at Con Market

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 (Sweet Soups)

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.

If you want a more comfortable sit-down meal after exploring the market, you can also check our guide to the best restaurants in Da Nang for reliable local restaurants, cafés, and dining spots across the city.

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.

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. Nam O fish sauce also comes from one of Da Nang’s old coastal communities. If you want to learn more about this lesser-known seaside area, see our Nam O Beach in Da Nang guide.
  • 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.

Dried seafood specialties

Dried seafood specialties at Con Market (Source: Collected)

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.

For a broader view of weather, festivals, and seasonal travel conditions, see our guide to the best time to visit Da Nang before planning your itinerary.

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

How long should I spend at Con Market?

Most visitors spend around 1 to 2 hours at Con Market. This is enough time to walk through the main shopping sections, try a few local dishes, and buy packaged specialties. If you plan to eat several dishes or compare prices before shopping, allow extra time.

Are prices at Con Market fixed or negotiable?

Food prices are usually fixed, especially at stalls with listed prices. For clothing, accessories, souvenirs, and some packaged goods, bargaining is common. Keep the negotiation friendly, compare a few stalls first, and avoid bargaining too aggressively.

What should I eat at Con Market Da Nang?

Some of the best foods to try at Con Market include Mi Quang, Banh Xeo, Banh Bot Loc, Banh Canh, Nem Lui, Bun Mam Nem, Oc Hut, Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo, and Che. If it is your first visit, start with one savory dish, one snack, and one dessert to get a balanced taste of local cuisine.

What should I buy at Con Market?

Popular things to buy at Con Market include dried squid, tamarind squid, dried fish, Cha Bo, Tre, peanut candy, pineapple ginseng tea, Nam O fish sauce, and other Central Vietnamese specialties. For easy transport, choose sealed or vacuum-packed products.

Can I pay by card at Con Market?

Most vendors at Con Market prefer cash, and card payments are not common at small stalls. Bring Vietnamese Dong in small denominations to make payment easier, especially when buying food, snacks, or low-value items.

Are there public restrooms at Con Market?

Yes. Public restrooms are available in the main market building, but facilities may be basic. It is a good idea to bring tissues and hand sanitizer, especially if you plan to eat at the food stalls.

Is Con Market better for food or shopping?

Con Market is especially strong for food, particularly local dishes, street snacks, desserts, and dried specialties. It also offers shopping, but travelers usually visit mainly for the food experience and local market atmosphere.

Is Con Market tourist-friendly?

Yes, but it still feels more local than many tourist-focused shopping areas. English may be limited at some stalls, so pointing, using simple words, showing photos, or using a translation app can be helpful.

What is the difference between Con Market and Han Market?

Con Market is generally better for local food, street snacks, and a more everyday market atmosphere. Han Market is often more convenient for tourists looking for souvenirs, dried goods, and quick shopping near the Han River area. If food is your priority, Con Market is usually the better choice.

Is it safe to eat street food at Con Market?

Yes, many visitors enjoy street food at Con Market, but it is best to choose busy stalls with high turnover and freshly prepared dishes. Avoid food that has been sitting out for too long, and drink bottled water if you have a sensitive stomach.

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 Central Vietnam, consider joining a custom Vietnam tour with Your Vietnam Travel. Our itineraries can combine local markets, street food, cultural sites, beaches, and nearby destinations such as Hoi An and Hue, giving you a smoother and more meaningful journey.

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