Con Market: The Ultimate Destination for Authentic Local Flavors
Con Market (Chợ Cồn) is recognized as one of Da Nang’s largest and busiest wholesale marketplaces. Unlike Han Market, it maintains a stronger focus on serving the local community. It offers visitors a deeply authentic glimpse into the daily life and culinary soul of the city. The market is conveniently located in the central Hai Chau District, making it a vital commercial and cultural landmark.
I. Historical Background and Origin
The market’s history traces back to the 1940s. Local residents originally named it Chợ Cồn, meaning “Market on the Dune,” because the French established it on a high, sandy mound (cồn) that never flooded. This origin story connects the market directly to the city’s early geography. Over the decades, Con Market grew in size and importance, leading to its reconstruction in 1984 as a multi-story commercial center. Despite a brief renaming, the original, rustic name persisted among locals, and the authority officially restored the title Con Market in 2012.

II. Culinary Paradise and Market Sections
Con Market’s true fame stems from its incredible and affordable food section. The market divides its offerings into distinct zones, ensuring a comprehensive shopping and dining experience.
Indoor Food Area (Morning/Lunch): This area houses dedicated stalls serving famous Central Vietnamese staple dishes. Diners can find local specialties like Mì Quảng (Quang-style noodles), Bún Mắm Nêm (vermicelli with fermented fish sauce), and Bánh Xèo (sizzling savory pancakes). These stalls generally operate from morning until mid-afternoon.
Outdoor Street Food Area (Afternoon/Evening): As the afternoon begins, the outside lanes transform into a vibrant street food haven. Vendors set up small plastic tables and chairs, creating a bustling, energetic dining scene. You can sample a wide range of affordable snacks and desserts here, including Bánh Bột Lọc (chewy clear dumplings), Ram Cuốn Cải (fried spring rolls wrapped in mustard leaves), and various types of Chè (Vietnamese sweet soups).
Dry Goods and Wholesale: The multi-story building also accommodates a vast area for wholesale goods. Shoppers can buy fresh produce, meats, fabrics, and, notably, a large selection of dried seafood and regional spices at competitive local prices.

III. Essential Visitor Information
Plan your visit with these practical tips, thereby maximizing your experience.
Location/Address: 290 Hung Vuong Street, Hai Chau District, Da Nang.
Operating Hours: The market generally opens from 6:00 AM to 7:30 PM daily. However, the best time for street food is after 3:00 PM, when the outdoor section comes alive. Arrive then to join the locals for dinner.
Entrance Fee & Pricing: Entry is free. The food prices are highly competitive and aimed at locals, making it one of the best places for budget travelers to eat. Expect most dishes to cost between 15,000 VND and 50,000 VND.
Cultural Tip: Vendors at Con Market often speak limited English, requiring visitors to use simple gestures or a translation app. Since the market primarily targets locals, bargaining is less intense than at Han Market, but politeness is always appreciated.