Con Market in Danang is a must-visit place for any traveler. Located right in the center of Danang Province, the busy market seems to be a paradise for gourmands and those who would like to savor authentic Vietnamese culture. The market is saturated with produce, tempered with extremely original local delicacies. The market is guaranteed to please all of your senses with an overwhelming aroma, colors, and chatter energy radiated by its busy sellers and shoppers.
History and Location of Con Market in Danang
Con Market in Danang
Con Market in Danang was established in the 1940s and, hence, is considered one of the oldest and most well-established markets in the area. Formerly going by the name Danang Trade Center, it took time over the years to be known as Con Market. The name “Con" is derived from the market’s former position on higher ground or “con" in Vietnamese. History provides its endearment with a unique charm and, therefore, the sense of continuity passed across generations.
Con Market is located at 290 Hung Vuong, Hai Chau District, right in the city center, making it conveniently accessible from the different parts of the city. The other strategic location, in relation to major Danang landmarks, includes the Dragon Bridge and Han River, which make the market a central hub both for the locals and tourists. In other words, the role of this strategic location plays not only in making this market a perfect shopping place but also a perfect spot for starting the exploration of Danang.
This market is located at a key intersection, so accessibility to the market and connections are not a problem. Coming to Con Market from the Danang International Airport or from the beach areas means coming to a highly accessible area. Not the least reason for its popularity and high footfall, the place is busting with trade and culture.
Operating Hours and Layout
Con Market in Danang is open every day from 7:00 a.m. until 7:30 p.m. Some of the food stalls operate until way past that time to attract the dinner crowds. The best time to hit the market is in the morning when vendors are still setting up, and the produce is at its freshest. Meanwhile, it is not so full of shoppers and the environment is more relaxed.
The setting of Con Market in Danang is indeed systematic, for there are different parts that deliver a different kind of shopping experience. The entire market is organized within a three-story main building encompassing other peripheral buildings around it. It has a ground floor that deals with fresh produce, seafood, and meat. The other two floors have been dedicated to the selling of a number of other different types of merchandise, from clothes and accessories to household items. This means that it is able to circulate smoothly, and customers can easily move around and find what they need. Beyond the main structure are other battalions: one for the dry goods and another for the street food. The dry goods section is a sweet heaven for those who have a taste for regional treats in bags, such as dried fruits, spices, and traditional Vietnamese goodies. The essence of the market mainly comes to life in the street food section, which probably will be appreciated by people who have a thing for food. Most definitely, whatever there is in this street food—be it something grilled or from the sizzling pots—will be for everybody.
Culinary Delights at Con Market
Various dishes
Indoor Food Section
Con Market Indoor Food Section The Con Market indoor food section is a treasure trove for culinary delights, with a vast choice of local dishes, snacks, and drinks. This is one of those perfect places where food enthusiasts will get a truly indigenous taste of Vietnamese culinary culture. Here are some of the highlights of the indoor section:
- Banh Canh: a kind of tapioca flour soup, it is thick and with chuckling noodles, with different toppings like crab, shrimp, or pork. Their thick noodles can hold the rich, flavorful broth well, so, many market lovers prefer this delicious soup.
- Mi Quang: It is a specialty noodle of Quang Nam, with its turmeric-painted yellow-colored noodles carrying loads of savory toppings such as shrimp, pork, and fresh herbs.
- Che Xoa Xoa Hat Luu: This is a dessert based on tapioca pearls, jelly, and mung beans served in a sweet coconut milk broth. The food is sweet and also acts as a cooling respite from Danang’s hot sun.
The type and quality of food served in Con Market’s indoor section are unique to Danang, making it a culinary adventure of its own. Each store is unique and offers that indigenous taste of local cuisine. With that, one can only leave with a great experience in the variety of food the place has to offer.
Outdoor Food Section
The outdoor food section of Con Market in Danang is just as hustling and bustling as the indoor part, but maybe even more; it is considered one of the best street food spots in the city. This outdoor section is nothing short of paradise for a food explorer; with endless options present at this place, each stall seems to be competing by making freshly cooked dishes that are both mouth-watering and friendly to the pocket. Here is some of the food that I was able to have a taste of:
- Oc Mut: Another snail dish, but stir-fried, this plate comes with a different mix of spices and herbs that make its flavor absolutely different from the others. The taste is slightly savory and not overpowering, with a hint of sweetness on the side. The added fact that the snails are always fresh makes the crunch satisfying with every bite.
- Banh Trang Cuon Thit Heo: Rice paper rolls with thinly sliced pork and fresh vegetables and herbs, then dipped into a tangy fish sauce.
- Bun Thit Nuong Nem Lui: Grilled pork, vermicelli noodles, and fresh herbs with a side of peanut sauce. The combination of different flavors and textures that come in this one plate can take it into orbit among the many choices they offer in the market.
The outdoor food area also has something for those looking for a quick little snack or drink. From fresh fruit juices to Kem Bo, which is a creamy avocado ice cream, there is something for every type of craving. The ambiance, mixed with the scent of fresh cooking, gives visitors to the outdoor area of Con Market within Danang an experience that they surely won’t forget.
Con Market in Danang gets the street food experience right and offers people the chance to experience many of the different dishes all in one location. Whether you are a serious foodie or just trying to expand your horizons, you will enjoy checking out the culinary delights on offer at the market.
Shopping at Con Market
souvenir shop
Dry Goods and Souvenirs
Within the various culinary experiences, Con Market Danang offers a perfect place to purchase different goods and souvenirs. The sections of the market selling dry goods are full of local packaged delicacies that are perfect as gifts for friends and family. The options vary from dried fruits and nuts to local Vietnamese candies and snacks.
Most of the popular choices within the section are Muc Rim, which is dried squid that contains mixed spices boiled to make it very rubbery. It is a favorite among the locals and tourists since it is tasty and very handy. Another favorite among the locals would be the selection of local Vietnamese coffee beans that are said to have a very strong flavor and aroma.
For those who would like to taste Vietnamese culture, this market also offers hand-made local merchandise, as well as traditional clothing. A person need not mention that these items are highly delicate and beautiful, varying from ceramic items embedded with intricate designs to silk scarfs that come in light and bright colors.
Negotiating Tips
dry food booth
Shopping at Con Market in Danang can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know how to negotiate. Here are a few tips to help you get the best deals:
- Research: Be sure to go around the entire market and see how various merchandisers are pricing their products. When you are considerably aware, you are likely to get a fair price on your wares.
- Start Low: This is a general rule in haggling because almost all the time, the first price usually has a leeway to a reasonable price.
- Be Polite: Always pays to be friendly with the merchandiser.
- Bargain: On purchasing more than one product from a single stall, you should bargain for a discount on the total price.
Most of the vendors willingly will give a better price if a buyer bought more than one item. Enjoy a more satisfying and cost-effective shopping experience at Con Market following those tips.
Tips for Visiting Con Market in Danang
A visit to Con Market in Danang can be an exhilarating experience, but one must be prepared before stepping into it. A few of the tips that will help you make your visit most productive include the following:
- Visit in the Morning: The market is less crowded in the morning and less hot. This way, moving about will be easier, and you will be able to get the freshest products from the source.
- Stay Hydrated: The market can get quite hot, especially in the afternoon. It is best to carry a bottle of water with you for hydration purposes.
- Watch Your Belongings: Keep your valuables very close to you in order to prevent pickpocketing, since the market has a busy nature.
- Wear Comfortable Clothing: Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing, as you will walk around Con Market a lot.
- Make a List: If you have a shopping list comprising some specific items you want to buy, be sure to take note in order not to forget what you need the most.
Nearby Attractions and Accommodations
While at Con Market in Danang, take a moment to consider some of the accommodations and attractions that are in close proximity. This is due to the fact that Con Market has a central location, which provides a great starting point for vacationing in Danang.
The famous Dragon Bridge, from where beautiful sunsets and sunrises can be viewed, is very close to this market. Another such attraction is the Han River, where one can walk along its banks or take a boat ride.
In accommodations, there are a number of good hotels and guesthouses in close vicinity of Con Market in Danang. Staying near will provide you easy access to the market and other attractions, making your trip convenient and enjoyable.
Conclusion
Con Market in Danang is more than just a market; it’s a cultural and culinary hub that offers a glimpse into the vibrant life of Danang. With its history, variety of foods, and goods, the market provides a must-visit point to feel the heart of this beautiful city. Con Market, found in Danang, is good for the satisfaction of any taste: food lovers, shopaholics, and inquisitive explorers. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Fanpage and Website for more interesting information about traveling to Danang and to book Danang tours at the best prices.