Con Dao Market is not only the busiest trading hub on the island but also a must-visit destination for travelers wanting to experience local culture, savor authentic island cuisine, and shop for unique souvenirs. Here, you’ll find everything from freshly caught seafood to famous dried specialties and simple yet delightful street food. The market is also a popular stop for visitors picking up offerings before their pilgrimage to Hang Duong Cemetery.
If you’re planning a trip to Con Dao, make sure to set aside time to explore this vibrant marketplace!
About Con Dao Market
Con Dao Market is the largest and most bustling traditional market on the island, and a well-known attraction for visitors. It offers a wide variety of fresh produce, seafood, daily essentials, local specialties, and handmade souvenirs. Despite its simplicity, the market exudes warmth and friendliness, always buzzing with activity.
The market has two main sections: the old market and the new market. The new section is more spacious, cleaner, and better organized, making it a top choice for travelers looking to buy seafood or specialty products.
Location and How to Get There
Address: Khu 7, Pham Van Dong Street, Con Dao Special Zone
From Con Dao Airport: About 13 km. Travel by taxi or motorbike (20–25 minutes).
From the town center: Located right in the heart of town, only a short walk or quick ride away.
Opening Hours
- Morning market: 5:00 AM – 10:00 AM
(Fresh seafood, vegetables, and breakfast dishes) - Afternoon market: 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM
(Dried specialties, souvenirs, and packaged goods)
Fresh Seafood at Con Dao Market
Blessed with rich surrounding waters, Con Dao offers some of the freshest seafood in Vietnam. Popular items include:
- Con Dao Red Lobster: Naturally red shells, firm meat, and a sweet flavor—often more affordable than mainland seafood.
- Moon Crab: Distinctive orange shells with white spots, tender meat, and high nutritional value.
- Lady Snail (Ốc Vú Nàng): A rare local delicacy, delicious when steamed with lemongrass, grilled with scallion oil, or served as a fresh salad.
Dried Specialties to Bring Home
Con Dao Market has no shortage of famous dried seafood and snacks. Highlights include:
- One-sun-dried squid: Soft, sweet, and sun-dried just once for ideal texture.
- One-sun-dried mackerel: Thick fillets, perfect for grilling or braising.
- Con Dao dried shrimp: Naturally processed, flavorful, and great for gifting.
Roasted tropical almond nuts: A signature island specialty, available in flavors like salted, pineapple, and garlic butter.
Fermented oyster paste (mắm hàu): Excellent with boiled meat, vegetables, or used as a seasoning.
Local Dishes You Must Try
Con Dao Market is also a morning-food haven, offering beloved Vietnamese dishes with an island twist:
- Broken rice (cơm tấm): Grilled pork chops, shredded pork skin, and savory fish sauce.
- Fishy fermented noodle soup (bún mắm): Rich broth cooked from fermented fish, served with fresh seafood and herbs.
- Sea crab noodle soup (bún riêu cua biển): Light, sweet broth from fresh sea crab—comforting and easy to enjoy.
- Other familiar treats include congee, sticky rice, steamed rice rolls, hủ tiếu, bánh cam, and more—perfect to fuel your day of exploration.
The market also sells palm-fiber crafts, seashell decorations, and wooden souvenirs—great for bringing home a piece of island culture.
Shopping Tips for Con Dao Market
1. Visit early for the freshest seafood
From 5:00 AM to 7:00 AM is when fishing boats have just arrived. Prices are better and the seafood is at its freshest. Vendors can pack your purchase in ice boxes if you plan to travel with it.
2. Compare prices before buying
Walking around to check several stalls helps you find fair prices—especially for items like dried squid, dried mackerel, and roasted almond nuts.
3. Check airline policies for carrying food
If flying Vietnam Airlines or other carriers with flexible baggage options, you can bring dried products easily. For dried seafood, remember to seal and pack tightly before checking in.
A Genuine Glimpse into Local Life
More than a market, Con Dao Market reflects the rhythm of daily life, showcasing the culture, flavors, and warm hospitality of island residents. Strolling through the lively aisles, enjoying a bowl of steaming sea-crab noodle soup, and picking out a few signature specialties will make your Con Dao journey even more memorable.
If you want to experience Con Dao in the most authentic and vibrant way, don’t miss the chance to explore this charming island market!
