Ninh Kieu Night Market: Your Guide to Cần Thơ's Evening Energy
The Ninh Kieu Night Market (Chợ đêm Ninh Kiều) is an essential stop for any visitor seeking to experience the vibrant nightlife and street culture of Cần Thơ, the capital of the Mekong Delta. This bustling market sits conveniently near the iconic Ninh Kiều Wharf, offering a spectacular view of the river and acting as a central point for shopping and dining.
Address: Intersection of Phan Chu Trinh Street and Phan Boi Chau Street, Tân An, Ninh Kiều, Cần Thơ, Vietnam.
I. Location, Operation, and Atmosphere
The market occupies two parallel streets—Phan Chu Trinh and Phan Boi Chau—and divides itself into distinct zones: a food court and a shopping area.
Operating Hours: The market officially opens daily, typically from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM, though some food stalls start setting up earlier. We recommend visiting between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM to catch the peak energy.
Weekend Pedestrian Zone: Authorities often convert the area into a vehicle-free walking street on weekend evenings (Saturdays and Sundays). This transformation allows visitors to stroll freely, soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Culture and Entertainment: The market frequently hosts cultural and musical performances on weekend evenings, adding to the lively ambiance and showcasing local talent.
II. Food: The Ultimate Mekong Delta Feast
The market is best known for its dynamic food scene, offering an accessible way to sample Cần Thơ’s unique cuisine. You discover endless stalls selling local delicacies and popular Vietnamese street food.
Must-Try Local Specialties: Actively seek out Mekong Delta specialties. These include Bánh Xèo (savory pancake), Nem Nướng (grilled pork sausage rolls), and various seafood dishes like grilled oysters with cheese. The food stalls provide ample opportunities to try these authentic flavors.
Street Snacks and Desserts: Explore the vibrant fruit stalls, which feature a huge array of tropical produce. Sample local sweet soups (Chè), often made with fresh coconut milk, beans, and colorful jellies. Enjoy a freshly made smoothie or indulge in crispy snacks like Bánh Tráng Nướng (Vietnamese pizza).
III. Shopping and Visitor Essentials
The shopping zone complements the food court, offering a variety of consumer goods at competitive prices.
What to Buy: Browse stalls selling cheap clothing, shoes, accessories, and local souvenirs. You can find beautiful handcrafted items and printed T-shirts, which make perfect mementos of your trip.
Entrance and Fees: The market does not charge an entrance fee. We advise carrying small Vietnamese Dong (VND) notes, as most vendors do not accept credit cards. Bargaining is expected for non-food items, so negotiate politely for a fair price.
Proximity to Attractions: Combine your night market visit with a pre-dinner stroll along Bến Ninh Kiều (Ninh Kieu Wharf) to watch the sunset over the Hậu River. The Can Tho Old Market (often referred to as Tay Do Night Market) also sits nearby, offering an architectural contrast and additional shopping options.
Contact: No central public phone number is generally provided for the market stalls; contact your hotel for local assistance or directions.
