What to Buy in Da Nang Vietnam and Where to Shop

Discover the hidden shopping treasures of Central Vietnam's coastal gem! Da Nang, with its stunning beaches and tourist attractions, also offers a wonderful shopping environment with reasonable prices for travelers from near and far. If you're wondering what to buy in Da Nang Vietnam, you'll find that while less hectic than major cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang boasts easily navigable streets where most shopping venues are conveniently located near landmarks and museums.

What to Buy in Da Nang Vietnam

Traditional Handicrafts and Arts: Take Home a Piece of Vietnamese Artistry

Da Nang's artisans create stunning handicrafts that showcase centuries of traditional craftsmanship. From delicate ceramics to intricately carved marble, these pieces make perfect souvenirs that support local artists while adding authentic Vietnamese charm to your home. When considering what to buy in Da Nang Vietnam, don't overlook these unique artistic expressions.

• Handmade Pottery: Look for beautifully crafted cups, bowls, and plates adorned with iconic Da Nang scenes
• Woven Bamboo Products: Browse through a variety of items including:
  • Decorative baskets and elegant tables
  • Stylish hats and comfortable chairs
  • Functional bags and artistic bookshelves
  • Unique flower vases and charming small suitcases
  • Atmospheric lamps that create a warm glow

Did you know? Many of Da Nang's handicrafts combine traditional techniques with contemporary designs, making them both functional and decorative!

Image of a Da Nang artisan crafting exquisite ceramic vases. (Source: collected)

Marble Treasures: The Pride of Non Nuoc Village

Walk in the footsteps of artisans practicing a 300-year-old tradition! Da Nang's marble handicrafts are widely sold throughout the city, but they originate from the famous Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village nestled at the foot of the Marble Mountains. These high-quality and intricate products range from:

• Exquisite statues (Buddha figures, animals, national symbols)
• Fine jewelry crafted from precious gemstones
• Marble furniture pieces that blend art with functionality
• Feng shui items believed to bring harmony and balance

Visitors can witness skilled craftsmen transforming raw stone into works of art, continuing a tradition that has been passed down through generations.

Marble stones at Non Nuoc handicraft village. (Source: collected)

Traditional Vietnamese Clothing: Elegant Cultural Icons

Wrap yourself in Vietnam's living heritage! Two iconic pieces of traditional Vietnamese attire make for excellent purchases in Da Nang: Ao Dai: This elegant national costume represents the beauty and grace of Vietnamese culture.

• Typically made from luxurious silk or comfortable cotton
• Available in countless styles and vibrant colors
• Da Nang's Ao Dai often feature more colorful and creative patterns than those from other regions
• Can be purchased ready-made or custom-tailored to your exact measurements

Non La (Conical Hats): These iconic palm leaf hats are both practical and beautiful.

• Lightweight and perfect for protection against the sun
• Intricately handcrafted with careful attention to detail
• An authentic symbol of Vietnam recognized worldwide
• Incredibly affordable at just 15,000-20,000 VND (less than $1 USD) each

Ao Dai and Non La – elegant symbols of Vietnamese women, easily found at local shops in Da Nang. (Source: collected)

Food Specialties and Dried Goods: Flavors to Remember

Bring the taste of Da Nang back home! The city offers numerous culinary specialties that make perfect gifts for food-loving friends or delicious souvenirs for yourself. Da Nang's dried seafood is particularly renowned:

• Dried shrimp (a staple ingredient in many Vietnamese recipes)
• Dried squid (famous for its tender texture and subtle flavor)
• Various dried fish varieties offering rich, authentic taste
• Dried stingray (a unique specialty)

These items are easy to pack and preserve, making them practical food souvenirs. Meat Specialties:

• Cha Bo (beef sausage): Made from 100% fresh beef without preservatives
  • Features a sweet taste with a soft yet crunchy texture
  • Typically enjoyed with Da Nang's special chili sauce
  • Available at markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores
• Cha Heo (pork sausage): Another Vietnamese delicacy with distinctive flavor

Cha Heo and Cha Bo – Da Nang’s famous specialties, delicious and easy to pack as gifts. (Source: collected)

Sweet Treats:

• Peanut candy: Sweet, crunchy, and addictively delicious
• Sesame cake (Me cake): Features a sweet aroma and traditional flavor
• Sesame brittle (Me xung) from nearby Hue: Light, sweet, and crispy
• Bean cakes with meat: A unique combination of flavors

Natural Specialties:

• My Khe Seaweed: Exceptionally nutritious and versatile
  • Can be used in soups, stir-fries, tea, or refreshing salads
  • Rich in minerals and vitamins
• Various Vietnamese spices, both whole and sliced

Vietnamese Coffee: A Ritual in a Cup

Experience Vietnam's rich coffee culture in every sip! Da Nang is an excellent place to purchase high-quality Vietnamese coffee, which has gained international recognition for its distinctive flavor. Find various options including:

• Premium coffee beans or freshly ground coffee
• Specialty varieties like instant coffee or unique coconut salt coffee
• Legend Coconut Cappuccino for a tropical twist

Don't miss trying traditional Vietnamese iced coffee (Ca Phe Sua Da) from street vendors while exploring the city!

General Souvenirs: Memories Made Tangible

For simpler keepsakes that won't break the bank, Da Nang offers plenty of options:

• T-shirts featuring Da Nang landmarks or Vietnamese motifs
• Charming stuffed animals
• Decorative keychains
• Colorful refrigerator magnets
• Coffee mugs depicting local scenes

T-shirts, keychains, and Da Nang-themed mugs – charming keepsakes to remember your trip. (Source: collected)

Where to Shop in Da Nang

Traditional Markets: Immerse Yourself in Local Culture

Step into the beating heart of Da Nang's commercial life! The city's traditional markets offer the most authentic shopping experience, where you can observe local life, practice your bargaining skills, and find unique items at excellent prices. Han Market: A true Da Nang landmark operating since the 1940s French colonial era

• Located centrally at the intersection of major streets
• Features hundreds of stalls selling local produce, handicrafts, clothing, and accessories
• Front section offers tropical fruits like bananas, mangoes, durian, and jackfruit
• The most famous spot for dried seafood
• Also sells local spices, both whole and pre-sliced
• Perfect for budget-conscious travelers
• Open daily from 6 AM to 7 PM

Han Market – a legendary shopping destination since the French colonial era, offering everything from specialties to handicrafts. (Source: collected)

Con Market: The largest and busiest wholesale shopping hub in Da Nang

• Boasts over 2,000 stalls spread across multiple levels
• Ground floor dedicated to fresh produce, dried goods, coffee beans, and numerous food stalls
• Upper floors offer handicrafts, clothing, and tailoring services
• Bargaining is highly encouraged – discounts up to 50% are possible!
• Located on Ong Ich Khiem Street
• Open daily from 6 AM to 6 PM
• Especially renowned for its dried seafood section

Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village: A 300-year-old crafts center at the Marble Mountains' base

• Home to numerous workshops and stores selling marble products at reasonable prices
• A true artistic hub dedicated to marble sculpture
• Visitors can witness skilled artisans at work
• Open from 8 AM to 7 PM or 7 AM to 5 PM

Marble art shops at the foot of the Marble Mountains – where you can bring home unique handcrafted stone sculptures. (Source: collected)

Son Tra Night Market: Perfect for evening shopping adventures

• Sells local street food and souvenirs
• Opens from 5 PM onwards
• Ideal for budget travelers and groups looking for a lively atmosphere

Shopping Malls and Supermarkets: Modern Comfort and International Brands

Enjoy air-conditioned comfort with global and local brands under one roof! For those who prefer modern shopping environments or are looking for specific international products, Da Nang's malls and supermarkets offer excellent options. Lotte Mart Da Nang: One of the city's largest shopping complexes

• Five-story facility offering entertainment, shopping, and dining options
• Extensive collection of cosmetics, electronics, appliances, clothing, and footwear
• Features international and local brands
• Massive grocery store on the 4th floor
• Top floor houses a bowling alley, gaming center, and ice skating rink
• Located just 10 minutes by taxi from the airport
• Open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM
• Suitable for everyone, especially families with children

Modern shopping at Lotte Mart and Vincom. (Source: collected)

Vincom Plaza Da Nang: Experience sophisticated shopping in a modern environment

• Houses retail stores, restaurants, cinema, and ice skating rink
• Features both international brands and popular Vietnamese stores
• Excellent place to find stylish Da Nang souvenirs that combine fashion with practicality
• Open from 9:30 AM to 10 PM or 10 AM to 10 PM

Vinh Trung Plaza: Combines colonial French architecture with modern amenities

• Features a large grocery store, gaming center, cinema, and numerous dining and retail outlets
• Sells locally designed clothing, accessories, and footwear alongside imported household items

Vinh Trung Plaza – a shopping center blending French colonial architecture with modern convenience. (Source: collected)

Big C Supermarket: Practical shopping for everyday needs

• Offers groceries, fresh food, personal hygiene items, and household goods
• Perfect for families and budget travelers
• Open daily from 8 AM to 10 PM

Specialty Shops and Workshops: Unique Finds and Expert Craftsmanship

Discover specialized treasures crafted by experts in their field! Da Nang hosts numerous specialty shops where you can find high-quality, authentic items direct from producers.

• Da Nang Souvenirs & Café: Overlooking the romantic Han River, this shop offers authentic local souvenirs at attractive prices
• Ao Dai Madame Duong: Specialized in selling and tailoring traditional Ao Dai
• Stone Carving Workshops (Nguyen Hung, Tien Hieu, Phu Quy): Expert artisans creating marble masterpieces
• Cha Bo Shops (Cha Bo Tam Lieu, Cha Bo Da Nang – Ba De): Authentic beef sausage specialists
• Tabalo Outdoor: Quality sports and travel equipment
• M Legrand Jewelry and Namaka Jewelry: Fine jewelry stores
• Cat Van Thien Sa Art Gallery: Showcases works by talented local Vietnamese artists

Cat Van Thien Sa Art Gallery. (Source: collected)

Pro Tips for Shopping in Da Nang

Shop like a local with these insider strategies! The following tips will help you make the most of your Da Nang shopping experience while ensuring you get quality items at fair prices.

Mastering the Art of Bargaining

Negotiation is both expected and respected at traditional markets. Don't be shy about haggling – it's part of the experience!

• Start by offering around 50% of the initial asking price
• Maintain a friendly, respectful attitude while negotiating
• If sellers refuse your price, try walking away – they might call you back with a better offer
• Remember that a few thousand VND difference is minimal in USD but may be significant to local vendors

Language and Currency Tips

• Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases such as:
  • "Cái này bao nhiêu tiền?" (How much is this?)
  • "Cảm ơn" (Thank you)
• Familiarize yourself with Vietnamese currency (VND)
  • USD is not commonly used for everyday transactions
  • Approximate exchange rate: 1 USD = ~23,000 VND

Quality Considerations

• Avoid buying branded clothing at markets as they are typically counterfeit
  • Visit official stores for authentic branded items
  • Market clothes are best for temporary, inexpensive options
• Always inspect items carefully before purchasing, especially:
  • Food products (check expiration dates)
  • Higher-value handicrafts like silk or marble items
• Be cautious with discounted items as they may be:
  • Out of fashion
  • Slightly damaged
  • Of lower quality than standard merchandise

Da Nang vs. Hanoi: Shopping Comparison

How does Da Nang stack up against Vietnam's capital? While opinions vary, here are some insights from travelers who have experienced both: Some travelers note that Da Nang's shopping scene is generally less bustling than Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. However, this can be a positive for those who prefer a more relaxed shopping experience without the intense crowds. Different perspectives from travelers:

• Some prefer Hanoi for higher-quality domestic goods and greater variety of local brands
• Others favor Da Nang for its significantly cheaper prices, especially at Con Market and Han Market
• Da Nang markets are often described as less aggressive with pricing compared to Hanoi's tourist areas
• Hanoi offers more options for high-end local fashion and tailored clothing

The verdict? Da Nang provides excellent value, particularly for handicrafts, local specialties, and casual shopping, while Hanoi might edge ahead for serious fashion enthusiasts and those seeking more variety.

Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping in Da Nang

Get quick answers to the most common questions about shopping in this vibrant coastal city!

What items is Da Nang most famous for shopping?

Da Nang is renowned for several distinctive products that make excellent souvenirs. The city's marble products from Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village are particularly famous, offering everything from small decorative pieces to large sculptures meticulously carved to perfection. You'll also find high-quality handicrafts including handmade pottery, traditional Vietnamese clothing like Ao Dai and Non La (conical hats), and various local food specialties such as dried seafood, Cha Bo (beef sausage), traditional sweets, and Vietnamese coffee.

Which traditional markets are most popular in Da Nang and what can I buy there?

Han Market is Da Nang's most iconic traditional market, operating since the French colonial period in the 1940s. Here you'll find a wide variety of items including local produce, handicrafts, t-shirts, accessories, and packaged specialties like chili sauce, Ly Son garlic, rice paper, and dried squid—all perfect as souvenirs. Con Market is another famous local market where you can discover local food and a vast array of merchandise. Both markets offer authentic shopping experiences with opportunities to practice your bargaining skills.

What is Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village famous for and what products can I find there?

Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, located at the foot of Marble Mountains, is famous for its 300-year tradition of marble craftsmanship. Here you'll find countless workshops and stores selling marble products at reasonable prices. Popular items include rice mortars, grain grinders, tombstones, gemstone jewelry (rings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets), and intricate sculptures of Buddha, sphinxes, animals, and national symbols in various sizes. It's an ideal place to discover local artistic traditions and bring home a unique piece of Da Nang culture.

Are there modern shopping malls or supermarkets in Da Nang?

Yes, Da Nang offers several modern shopping facilities. Lotte Mart Da Nang is one of the largest shopping centers, providing entertainment, shopping, and dining options with products from international and local brands, a large supermarket, and entertainment facilities like bowling and ice skating. Other modern options include Vincom Plaza with retail stores, restaurants, cinema, and ice skating; Big C Supermarket (now GO! Da Nang) for groceries and daily necessities; and Vinh Trung Plaza with its mix of retail and entertainment venues.

What food specialties should I buy as gifts when visiting Da Nang?

Da Nang offers many delicious food specialties that make excellent gifts. Dried seafood is particularly popular, including dried squid, dried fish, and half-dried mackerel. Traditional sweets like sesame cake, peanut candy, and bean cakes are also highly recommended. Other specialties include Cha Bo (beef sausage), Cha Heo (a type of Vietnamese pork roll), My Khe seaweed (known for its nutritional value), and Vietnamese coffee. These items can all be found at traditional markets and food shops, and most are packaged for convenient transport.

What are some useful tips for shopping at markets in Da Nang?

When shopping at traditional markets in Da Nang, bargaining is common practice. Feel confident negotiating prices but always maintain a polite and respectful attitude toward vendors. It's important to carefully check the quality of items before purchasing, especially for food and higher-value handicrafts. Knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases like "How much is this?" ("Cái này bao nhiêu tiền?") and "Thank you" ("Cảm ơn") can significantly enhance your shopping experience. Note that branded clothing sold at traditional markets is typically counterfeit—purchase these items from official stores if authenticity matters to you.

How does shopping in Da Nang compare to Hanoi and other major Vietnamese cities?

Compared to Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang's shopping scene is generally considered less bustling. However, opinions vary among travelers about the shopping experience. Some find that prices at local markets in Da Nang are significantly cheaper and less inflated for tourists than in Hanoi. While Hanoi is known for having more high-quality domestic fashion brands and tailoring shops, Da Nang is often preferred for casual shopping, local handicrafts, and specialties. The shopping atmosphere in Da Nang tends to be more relaxed and less crowded, making it particularly appealing for those who prefer a less hectic experience.

Where else can I find souvenirs or local specialties in Da Nang besides markets and malls?

Beyond the major markets and shopping malls, Da Nang offers various other shopping venues. Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village specializes in marble sculpture products. Da Nang Souvenirs & Café is a riverside location selling local souvenirs and featuring a café with a view of the Han River. Local food shops and small supermarkets are good places to find packaged specialties. There are also specialty craft shops, art galleries, and night markets like Son Tra Night Market that provide additional shopping options. Many hotels also have gift shops with a selection of local products. In conclusion, the above are suggestions to help you answer the question "what to buy in Da Nang Vietnam". With the diversity from exquisite handicrafts, appealing local specialties to unique souvenirs, Da Nang will surely bring you interesting and memorable shopping choices.

When deciding what to buy in Da Nang, you'll find a treasure trove of authentic Vietnamese goods from marble sculptures to traditional Ao Dai and delicious food specialties. As Joytime Travel Agency brand travel experts, we recommend visiting Han Market and Non Nuoc Village for the best local handicrafts and souvenirs, where bargaining is welcome and prices are more reasonable than in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City - making your shopping experience both rewarding and memorable.