no-img

Hoi An Central Market

no-img
no-img
no-img
no-img

Hoi An Central Market: Experiencing Authentic Local Life

Hoi An Central Market (Chợ Hội An) functions as the town’s primary trading center and largest day market, offering a vibrant contrast to the tranquil ancient streets surrounding it. This essential hub provides a genuine, sensory-rich experience of local Vietnamese life, making it a perfect destination for food enthusiasts and culture seekers. The market complex comprises a central building and surrounding stalls, stretching from Tran Phu Street to the Thu Bon River bank.

I. History and Its Role in Hoi An’s Culture

The market’s history closely mirrors the development of Hoi An as a major international trading port between the 16th and 19th centuries. Established in the mid-19th century, its location along the Thu Bon River ensured easy access for river trade, cementing its role as the town’s main commercial link. Today, the market preserves this legacy, continuing to operate as the lifeblood of Hoi An’s daily economy. Visiting the Central Market provides an invaluable opportunity to witness the everyday bustle, far removed from the typical tourist routes.

II. Market Sections and Culinary Highlights

The Central Market is renowned for its well-organized zones, simplifying the exploration process. It stands as a particularly famous destination for its food court.

  1. Wet Market (Fresh Produce): This early-morning section sells fresh vegetables, tropical fruits, and seafood, sourced directly from local farmers and fishermen. It offers a chaotic yet authentic spectacle of daily commerce.

  2. Dry Goods and Textiles: This indoor section features stalls selling local spices, dried chili, Vietnamese coffee, and packaged goods—perfect for souvenirs. Hoi An’s famous tailors often operate stalls nearby, allowing visitors to purchase fabric and order custom clothing.

  3. The Food Court (Culinary Paradise): This is arguably the most popular area. Dozens of stalls prepare affordable and authentic Central Vietnamese dishes, including Cao Lầu (Hoi An’s signature noodle dish), Mì Quảng (turmeric noodles), and Bánh Bao Vac (White Rose dumplings). Locals primarily frequent these clean, indoor stalls, ensuring the food’s authenticity and quality.

III. Essential Visitor Information

Plan your market visit effectively by using these practical details.

  • Location/Address: The intersection of Tran Phu Street and Bach Dang Street (Main Entrance on Tran Phu).

  • Operating Hours: The market generally opens daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit for fresh produce is early morning (6:00 AM – 8:00 AM). For the food court, we suggest visiting during lunch hours (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM).

  • Entrance Fee: Entry to the market is free of charge.

  • Tips for an Authentic Visit: Bring small denominations of Vietnamese Dong, since most vendors do not accept cards. Haggling is generally expected in the dry goods and textile areas, but do not attempt to bargain at the food stalls, as they set fixed, low prices. The market serves as an excellent starting point for a cooking class, where participants often source fresh ingredients here.

Spot an error or outdated info?
We strive for accuracy! Your feedback helps us improve our travel guides.
4.4
Based on 19616 reviews
powered by Google
Do C.
07:51 05 Oct 25
7 FUN FACTS YOU (PROBABLY) DON’T KNOW ABOUT HOI AN CENTRAL MARKET 🏮🤫

1. Way More Than Just A Market
Locals say this place is the “heartbeat of the Old Town.” Walk in and you’ll be hit with the chatter of vendors, the smell of fresh herbs and fish sauce, and some next-level bargaining action.

2. Food Tastes Better (And Cheaper) Here
Cao Lau noodles, Mi Quang, crispy pancakes, sweet soups… the food court inside the market is where locals say the flavors are *more authentic* than the tourist restaurants outside.

3. A Mini Floating Market of The Past
Back in the day, boats from nearby villages like Cam Nam and Duy Xuyen docked right by the market, unloading rice, veggies, and fresh seafood. It was like a small “harbor life” after Hoi An’s golden port era.

4. The Pure Quang Nam Accent Lives Here
In the Old Town, people switch to standard Vietnamese for tourists. But inside the market? You’ll hear the original Quang Nam dialect—colorful, unique, and unforgettable.

5. There’s A Whole Street Just For Incense & Paper Offerings
Yep, one corner of the market is packed with joss paper, candles, and temple goods. With so many pagodas around Hoi An, this spot is buzzing all year round.

6. The Market Doesn’t Really Sleep
After official hours, a hidden “night market” pops up outside with small stalls and food vendors. Locals know it, tourists usually don’t.

7. Bargaining is a Sport
Forget fixed prices. Here, bargaining isn’t just shopping—it’s entertainment.Haggling here isn’t stressful—it’s part of the show. Even if you “lose,” you’ll still leave with something tasty and a good story.

👉 So skip the postcard version of Hoi An for a minute and dive into the market. It’s loud, a little messy, totally charming—and that’s exactly why you’ll love it.
Kim K.
07:11 03 Oct 25
Everything you need fresh. Also all commodities for kitchen and a million other small stuff.. Massive amounts of tailors etc. Make sure to come early in the morning for the most fresh food.
yaz
13:56 19 Aug 25
Lots of souvenirs to buy but found it much cheaper in Danang. There were lots of cafe and their foods/drinks were great. The Old town area is vibrant at night. No wonder it’s called the City of Lanterns. If given a chance, would definitely be back.
Akshat G.
00:54 29 Jul 25
Lantern City
Nice market same as other market in Vietnam just the difference is you can see lantern everywhere.
You Can experience vibrant night life here.
If you have visited other markets also then don’t worry nothing is much different here just same as others.
But one thing is different here that i felt is there are more food options available here than other markets like Rice paper pizza and more.
Dharmananda L.
13:53 10 Jul 25
A Place to eat LOCAL Vietnamese food, fantastic... many local food, just choose any that you feel like it, price all the same, no overcharge (basically 1 person own a few shops)

Food : 4.5/5 (minus some of flies)
Service : 4.5/5 just because they push too hard to sell you the food. But hey this is the local to ask tourist to eat at their place.
Athmosphere : 5/5 authentic old market for me. There is a well outside the market.

Overall, must visit place.
See All Reviews
error: Content is protected !!