Hoi An Central Market
A bustling hub of local life, Hoi An Central Market offers a vibrant sensory experience with delicious street food and a lively atmosphere, especially...

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Freshest produce & fewer crowds
Hoi An Central Market
Best Time
Freshest produce & fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bustling hub of local life, Hoi An Central Market offers a vibrant sensory experience with delicious street food and a lively atmosphere, especially at night.
"If you want to get a real street food experience in Hoi An, you have to go to the Central Market!"
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Souvenir prices are often inflated. Don't be afraid to negotiate firmly but politely for the best deals!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Carry a mini-fan, hat, and sunscreen. The sun can be intense, especially during midday.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Authentic Street Food
Central Market Food Stalls
Dive into traditional Vietnamese dishes at incredibly affordable prices. A true taste of local life!

Lantern-Lit Nights
Hoi An Old Town (near market)
Experience the magical 'City of Lanterns' come alive after dark. The vibrant atmosphere is unforgettable.

Souvenir Shopping
Market Stalls
Browse a wide array of souvenirs, though prices can be higher than in other cities. Bargaining is key!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Bustle
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Things to do in Hoi An NOT tailor or restaurants or shopping?
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Souvenir prices are often inflated. Don't be afraid to negotiate firmly but politely for the best deals!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Carry a mini-fan, hat, and sunscreen. The sun can be intense, especially during midday.
After a month in Hoi An, these are the tips I tell my friends
Hoi An: a rant
🍜 Taste Local Delights
The market is a prime spot for authentic, affordable Vietnamese street food. Try everything!
🚲 Bike Security
If you arrive by bike, ensure your helmet is secured inside your bike to prevent theft.
Hoi An Old Town seemed like hell…THANK YOU REDDITORS
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Bargain Like a Pro
Souvenir prices are often inflated. Don't be afraid to negotiate firmly but politely for the best deals!
☀️ Beat the Heat
Carry a mini-fan, hat, and sunscreen. The sun can be intense, especially during midday.
🍜 Taste Local Delights
The market is a prime spot for authentic, affordable Vietnamese street food. Try everything!
🚲 Bike Security
If you arrive by bike, ensure your helmet is secured inside your bike to prevent theft.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Hoi An Central Market is a vibrant and essential stop for experiencing authentic Vietnamese culture, particularly its incredible street food. Visitors rave about the delicious and affordable culinary offerings and the lively atmosphere, especially at night when the area glows with lanterns. However, be prepared for crowds and the need to bargain assertively for souvenirs, as prices can be inflated.
"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."
yaz
"If you want to get a real street food experience in Hoi An, you have to go to the Central Market! They have a ton of traditional dishes there for a super affordable price.
Even though the market can get pretty crowded with tourists, it still feels really traditional and is a great place to try local food."
Do Cuong
"Overall is great make sure bring along mini fan, hat and apply lots of sunscreen.
Great view however the price selling is overpriced from what I see. Need lots of bargain. Is lovely landscape and photo ops area. Different part of DaNang.
Those that ride on bike please make sure keep the helmet inside the bike. We lost one there"
Linda Teh
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Hoi An Central Market is centrally located in the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town. You can easily walk there if you're staying nearby, or take a short taxi or Grab ride. Many visitors also cycle, but be mindful of parking and security for your bike.
Parking is available, especially for bicycles and motorbikes. However, during peak times, it can get busy. Remember to secure your belongings, as one reviewer mentioned losing a helmet.
Absolutely! The market is a key part of the Ancient Town experience. A leisurely stroll will lead you right to its bustling entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to Hoi An Central Market itself is generally free. However, if you plan to explore the wider Hoi An Ancient Town, you may need to purchase an entrance ticket which covers several historical sites.
The market is typically open from early morning until late evening, with the food stalls often operating well into the night. The atmosphere changes dramatically from day to night.
Yes, the market can get quite crowded, especially with tourists during peak hours and in the evenings. Visiting early in the morning can offer a more relaxed experience.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, local handicrafts, clothing, souvenirs, and an abundance of food stalls. It's a great place to experience local commerce.
Definitely! The market offers fantastic photo opportunities, especially with its vibrant stalls, local life, and the lantern-lit ambiance at night.
Beyond general souvenirs, look for local specialties like rice paper pizza and other unique street food items. The sheer variety of food options is a highlight.
The atmosphere is lively, bustling, and authentic. It's a sensory experience with sights, sounds, and smells of local Vietnamese life.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The market is renowned for its authentic Vietnamese street food. You can find everything from traditional noodle soups and banh mi to local specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings, plus unique items like rice paper pizza.
Yes, the food prices at the market are generally very affordable, offering a fantastic value for authentic local cuisine.
While generally safe and delicious, some reviewers mention flies. It's always wise to choose stalls that are busy and appear clean. Eating during peak hours might mean fresher food.
Food prices are usually quite standardized among vendors, so bargaining is less common and often unnecessary compared to souvenir shopping.
Don't miss out on local Hoi An specialties like Cao Lau, White Rose dumplings, and the unique rice paper pizza. The variety ensures there's something for everyone.
📸 📸 Photography
The vibrant food stalls, colorful produce displays, and the general hustle and bustle offer endless photo opportunities. The market at night, illuminated by lanterns, is particularly picturesque.
It's generally acceptable, but it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up shots of individuals, especially if they seem busy or uncomfortable.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds for capturing daily life. Evenings are magical with the lanterns, but expect more people.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Bring a stroller or carrier for younger children as the market can get crowded. Stay hydrated and protect everyone from the sun with hats and sunscreen. While the food is a highlight, be mindful of hygiene and consider familiar options if your children are picky eaters. The lively atmosphere can be a bit overwhelming, so keep a close eye on little ones.
💰 Budget Travelers
When shopping for souvenirs, remember that bargaining is key. Don't accept the first price offered and be prepared to negotiate to get the best deals. While some items might be pricier than elsewhere, the overall experience and the opportunity to find unique items make it worthwhile. Compare prices if you have time, but enjoy the process of discovery.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Culinary Adventures at the Market
While the food is a major draw, some visitors note the presence of flies, a common characteristic of bustling outdoor markets. To ensure the freshest and most pleasant dining experience, consider visiting during off-peak hours or choosing stalls that are actively serving a high volume of customers. The vibrant atmosphere, coupled with the delicious and affordable food, makes the market a must-visit for any foodie exploring Hoi An.
Beyond the well-known dishes, keep an eye out for regional specialties like 'rice paper pizza' (Banh Trang Nuong) and other local snacks that offer a unique culinary exploration. The market truly embodies the spirit of Vietnamese street food culture.
Navigating the Souvenir Scene
However, it's crucial to be prepared for a bit of a shopping battle. Many travelers report that prices for souvenirs can be significantly higher than in other Vietnamese cities like Danang. This means that bargaining is not just recommended, it's essential. Approach negotiations with a friendly but firm attitude, and be prepared to walk away if the price isn't right. Remember that the initial price is rarely the final price.
While the market offers a wide selection, some visitors suggest that similar items might be found cheaper elsewhere. Weigh the convenience and atmosphere of the market against potential cost savings in other locations. Ultimately, the experience of browsing and haggling is part of the market's charm.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit