Cho Con Market: The Ultimate Guide to Da Nang's Culinary and Shopping Paradise

When visiting the vibrant coastal city of Da Nang in central Vietnam, no experience captures the authentic local culture quite like exploring Cho Con Market (Con Market). This bustling marketplace has earned its reputation as a culinary heaven and shopping paradise, drawing both locals and international visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the city's daily rhythms and flavors.

A Living Cultural Institution in Da Nang

Cho Con Market is one of Da Nang’s most vibrant and authentic shopping spots, offering a true taste of local life. Bustling with energy, it’s a go-to destination for food lovers and bargain hunters alike, packed with everything from fresh produce and street food to handmade souvenirs and local specialties.

More than just a place to shop, Cho Con gives travelers a window into Da Nang’s daily rhythm and cultural richness. With nearly a century of history, it stands as a beloved city landmark—much like Hanoi’s Dong Xuan Market—and a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the soul of Da Nang.

Whether you’re exploring the peaceful heights of Ban Co Peak Da Nang, strolling along Non Nuoc beach Vietnam, or wandering the city center, Cho Con Market offers an essential stop for a truly local experience.

Cho Con Market in Da Nang offers a vibrant, authentic experience with fresh produce, street food, souvenirs, and a glimpse into the city's daily life and culture. Image Source: danangfantasticity.com

Location and Accessibility

Cho Con Market enjoys a prime location in downtown Da Nang. The market's specific address varies slightly according to different sources:

• 200 Hung Vuong Street, Vinh Trung Ward, Hai Chau District

• 290 Hung Vuong Street, Da Nang city center

• 269 Ong Ich Khiem Street, Hai Chau 2 Ward, Hai Chau District

• 318 Ong Ich Khiem Street, Hai Chau 2 Ward, Hai Chau District

These address variations likely refer to different entrances or sections of the market, or potentially reflect changes in information over time. However, Hung Vuong Street is most frequently mentioned, suggesting it's the main thoroughfare where the market is located.

The market is easily accessible by motorbike, taxi, or car. From Da Nang International Airport, it’s just a 10–15 minute ride, and for those staying in the city center, it’s either a short drive or a pleasant walk. If you're arriving by motorbike, consider parking at nearby Vinh Trung Plaza for more affordable rates.

The surrounding area is a hub of activity, with nearby attractions like Vinh Trung Plaza, Metiz cinema, and easy access to landmarks like the Dragon Bridge.

Opening Hours and Best Times to Visit

Cho Con Market generally operates from early morning until evening, with slight variations depending on the source:

• 6:00 AM – 7:30 PM

• 7:00 AM – 7:30 PM

• Officially listed as 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM

For the most vibrant experience, visit in the morning when the market is bustling with activity. If you're here for the food, keep in mind:

• Indoor food court: 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM

• Outdoor street food stalls: 3:00 PM onward

Late afternoon (3:00–6:00 PM) is ideal for sampling local street eats. While the main market winds down by 7:30 PM, street vendors around the area often stay open a bit later, creating a lively evening scene sometimes referred to as the “Cho Con night market.”

A Food and Shopping Paradise

Culinary Delights

Cho Con Market has long been celebrated as a food paradise offering countless enticing local dishes. The market features numerous stalls selling delicious meals that showcase the essence of Vietnamese cuisine. Visitors can discover famous Da Nang street foods like Banh Canh, Mi Quang Da Nang, Goi Kho Bo (beef jerky salad), Banh Bot Loc (tapioca dumplings), Che (sweet soup desserts), and Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes).

The indoor food section serves characteristic Da Nang dishes such as Bun Mam (fermented fish noodle soup), Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork with rice noodles), Banh Xeo, and Mi Quang.

Cho Con Market is a food haven, offering Da Nang street foods like Banh Canh, Mi Quang, Banh Xeo, and unique dishes like Bun Mam and Che. Image Source: havatravel.com.vn

Some particularly highlighted dishes include:

• Banh Canh: A thick rice noodle soup with a sweet clear broth, typically cooked with crab and boiled pork.

• Banh Beo and Banh Bot Loc: Traditional specialties popular at Cho Con.

• Bun Thit Nuong: With the rich flavor of grilled marinated pork served with noodles and fresh herbs, dipped in savory peanut sauce.

Market Layout and Shopping Sections

Cho Con Market is organized into distinct zones that cater to a wide range of shopping needs. Outside, you'll find a lively stretch of stalls offering fresh produce, dried goods, spices, and grains, alongside handcrafted items such as bamboo baskets, incense, and candles. Toward the back lies the wet market area, where fresh meat and seafood are sold—many local restaurants source ingredients here for their freshness and quality.

Inside, the market's central section is filled with affordable fashion, clothing, and accessories. On the upper floors, textile vendors offer a variety of fabrics at competitive prices. Cho Con is also a great spot to pick up reasonably priced dried seafood like fish and squid—popular items for souvenirs. Shoppers can also browse through traditional clothing, unique handicrafts, and keepsakes that reflect the cultural essence of Da Nang.

Popular Foods at Cho Con Market and Price Ranges

Souvenirs and Local Products Available at Cho Con Market

Practical Tips for Visitors

Navigating the Market

• The market is divided into sections, with food areas, clothing zones, souvenirs, and fresh produce in different locations

• Start with a general walk-through to get oriented before focusing on specific areas

• For the best food experiences, head to the indoor food court before 3:00 PM or the outdoor street food area after 3:00 PM

• Bring cash in small denominations for easier transactions

Cho Con Market is divided into food, clothing, souvenirs, and fresh produce zones. Explore, then head to the food court before 3 PM or street food after. Image Source: hoangviettravel.vn

Bargaining Etiquette

• Polite bargaining is expected and part of the local shopping culture

• Start by offering 50-70% of the initial asking price

• Maintain a friendly, respectful tone throughout negotiations

• Be prepared to walk away if the price doesn't meet your expectations

• Remember that even small amounts can mean more to local vendors than to tourists

Food Safety Tips

• Look for stalls with high customer turnover, as this indicates fresh food

• Observe how food is handled and prepared

• Choose cooked items that are prepared fresh in front of you

• Carry hand sanitizer for use before eating

• Consider bottled water or beverages over ice in drinks if you have a sensitive stomach

Photography Etiquette

• Always ask permission before taking photos of people or their stalls

• Some vendors may decline or request a small purchase

• Be respectful of local customs and privacy

• Avoid using flash in close quarters, as it can be disruptive

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning (6:00-8:00 AM) for the freshest produce and less crowded experience

• Late morning to early afternoon (10:00 AM-2:00 PM) for a more relaxed shopping experience

• Late afternoon to early evening (3:00-6:00 PM) for the best street food options

• Avoid visiting during heavy rain, as some sections may have limited coverage

How to Include Cho Con Market in Your Da Nang Itinerary

Half-Day Market Experience

Morning Option:

• 7:00 AM: Arrive at Cho Con Market when it's bustling with local activity

• 7:30 AM: Enjoy a traditional Vietnamese breakfast at one of the food stalls

• 8:30 AM: Explore the fresh produce and meat sections to observe local shopping habits

• 9:30 AM: Browse handcrafts and souvenirs

• 11:00 AM: Have an early lunch of local specialties before departing

Afternoon Option:

• 2:30 PM: Arrive at the market as it transitions to afternoon vendors

• 3:00 PM: Sample street food snacks as stalls begin setting up

• 4:00 PM: Shop for clothing, textiles, and souvenirs

• 5:30 PM: Enjoy dinner from various food vendors

• 7:00 PM: Depart as the market winds down

Combining with Other Attractions

Central Da Nang Day:

• Morning: Visit the Han River and Dragon Bridge

• Lunch: Head to Cho Con Market for authentic local dishes

• Afternoon: Shop at Cho Con Market

• Evening: Visit Da Nang Cathedral, then return to the market area for dinner

Start your day with Han River and Dragon Bridge, enjoy lunch and shopping at Cho Con Market, then explore Da Nang Cathedral before dinner at the market. Image Source: hoangviettravel.vn

Cultural Immersion Day:

• Morning: Visit Da Nang Museum of Cham Sculpture

• Midday: Lunch and shopping at Cho Con Market

• Afternoon: Visit Linh Ung Pagoda

• Evening: Return to the market area for dinner and night photography

What Makes Cho Con Market Special

Cho Con Market offers a genuine slice of local life that larger commercial centers cannot replicate. What sets it apart includes:

1. Authentic Local Cuisine: The market presents an unfiltered collection of Central Vietnamese specialties prepared the traditional way.

2. Cultural Heritage: With history dating back nearly a century, the market represents Da Nang's resilience and adaptability through periods of significant change.

3. Vibrant Atmosphere: The energetic environment filled with bargaining, cooking aromas, and local interactions creates an immersive cultural experience.

4. Affordability: Both food and merchandise are priced for locals, making it an excellent value for travelers.

5. Diversity of Offerings: From fresh produce to prepared foods, handicrafts to everyday items, the market serves as a comprehensive shopping destination.

6. Connection to Local Community: Unlike tourist-focused venues, Cho Con Market primarily serves locals, allowing visitors to observe authentic daily life.

7. Adaptability: While maintaining traditional elements, the market has embraced modern commerce approaches like clear pricing and social media promotion.

Conclusion

Cho Con Market represents much more than a traditional marketplace—it's a cultural and economic symbol of Da Nang. With its long history, central location, and diverse offerings, the market has become an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.

The market's evolution from a simple bazaar on a sand dune to a multi-story commercial center demonstrates its adaptability and enduring vitality. The community's determined protection of the market from demolition proves the deep cultural and emotional value residents place in this institution.

Cho Con Market is famous for its affordable and diverse local dishes, attracting food enthusiasts from everywhere. Additionally, it serves as a bustling shopping center with a wide range of products, from unique handicrafts to local specialties, meeting every need of visitors seeking meaningful souvenirs.