Complete travel guide to Hoi An market: Local food, souvenirs & tips

Hoi An Market, much like other architectural gems of the Ancient Town built during Vietnam’s French colonial era, showcases the timeless charm of French design — mustard-yellow walls, graceful arches, and ornate columns. Inside, the market is neatly divided into sections for seafood, produce, and souvenirs, making it easy for visitors to wander, explore, and discover local delights.

Where is Hoi An Market?

• Address: 19 Tran Phu Street, Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Nestled at the crossroads of Tran Phu, Bach Dang, and Nguyen Thai Hoc Streets, Hoi An Market has long been the beating heart of the town’s trading scene. Its prime location places it within walking distance of major attractions like the Sa Huynh Culture Museum, Cau Pagoda, Tan Ky Old House, and the Cantonese Assembly Hall. 

The long-standing history of Hoi An Market

Between the 16th and 19th centuries, Hoi An flourished as one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic trading ports, attracting merchants from China, Japan, and the West. In the early 18th century, Hoi An Market was established as a central hub for distributing imported goods and local produce. 

Originally built near Ong Voi Communal House, the market was later relocated to its present riverside site along the Bach Dang River, where it continues to thrive as a cornerstone of local commerce.

Top 4 interesting experiences at Hoi An market

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveler, Hoi An Market offers countless ways to dive into the town’s vibrant daily life. Here are four experiences you shouldn’t miss.

Immerse yourself in the bustling local vibe

Unlike the tranquil, lantern-lit streets of Hoi An Ancient Town, the market is a burst of colors, sounds, and aromas. Vendors calling out prices, the scent of herbs and grilled dishes, and locals haggling with cheerful smiles — all paint a lively picture of authentic Vietnamese life. 

Explore Hoi An’s Culinary Paradise

Recognized as one of Vietnam’s top street food destinations, Hoi An Market is heaven for food lovers. From savory noodles to sweet local desserts, every dish tells a story of heritage and flavor.

Cao Lau

A signature Hoi An dish made with yellow noodles, thinly sliced pork, dried shrimp, and aromatic herbs. The noodles are crafted from local sticky rice soaked in special well water and cooked three times over wood fire. The result: a chewy, smoky texture unlike any other noodle dish in Vietnam.

Mi Quang (Quang Noodles)

A rustic favorite featuring flat yellow noodles, pork belly, shrimp, and boiled egg, served in a rich, fragrant broth. Topped with roasted peanuts and crispy rice crackers, it’s a perfect blend of flavor and texture.

White Rose Dumplings

These delicate steamed dumplings, shaped like tiny roses, are filled with minced shrimp and topped with crispy shallots. Soft, fragrant, and subtly sweet, they’re a must-try symbol of Hoi An’s culinary art.

Steamed Rice Rolls with Grilled Pork

Known locally as banh trang cuon thit heo, this dish combines grilled pork, fresh herbs, and rice paper for a refreshing balance of savory and light. Dip it in the local chili fish sauce for the full experience.

Sweet Corn Dessert (Che Bap)

A beloved local dessert made from Cam Nam corn — known for its natural sweetness — mixed with coconut milk, tapioca pearls, and shredded coconut. Served with ice, it’s the perfect treat to cool off on a sunny afternoon.

Capture beautiful moments at Hoi An market

With its charming architecture and nostalgic ambiance, Hoi An Market captivates visitors with moss-covered roofs, weathered yellow walls, and the warm glow of sunlight reflecting off ancient tiles. 

Every corner here tells a story, offering a picture-perfect backdrop for your photos. From the bustling entrance to the riverside stalls, the market is an ideal place to capture authentic scenes of local life. Don’t forget to bring your camera — every shot taken here feels like a glimpse into Hoi An’s timeless charm.

Bring home the taste and spirit of Hoi An

Beyond its colorful food stalls and irresistible local dishes, Hoi An Market is also a wonderful place to shop for souvenirs and specialties. It’s filled with handcrafted treasures and local products that make perfect gifts for friends and family back home.

Among the most popular items is Hoi An chili sauce, known for its mild heat, rich garlic aroma, and a subtle hint of roasted peanuts — the perfect accompaniment to iconic dishes like cao lau, chicken rice, and Mi Quang. Another local favorite is green bean cake, distinctively baked instead of steamed to create a fragrant, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with a cup of tea. You’ll also find “mam thinh”, a unique fermented fish paste blended with roasted rice powder, adding a deep, savory note to pork, fried rice, or fresh cucumber salad.

For something more artistic, browse the many stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs — colorful bags, woven clothes, seashell ornaments, and other handmade creations that showcase the craftsmanship and creativity of Hoi An’s artisans. Every item carries a piece of the town’s spirit, allowing you to take a bit of its warmth and culture home with you.

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