Con Dao Market – the main market in the center of Con Son town, virtually the only market on the Con Dao archipelago. The market is where locals and tourists buy fresh seafood, daily necessities, and souvenirs.
Quick Summary
- Address: Pham Van Dong Street, Con Son Center, Con Dao Special Zone, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening hours: Morning from about 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM, afternoon from around 4:00 PM until dusk
- Admission: Free
- Highlights: Catch-of-the-day seafood, on-site cooking service available
History and Characteristics
- The market serves most of the daily shopping and trading needs of the island's residents.
- The market is divided into sections: souvenirs, fruits and vegetables, and fresh seafood.
- Most fruits and vegetables are transported from the mainland, so prices are typically higher.
- The morning is when fishing boats return, offering the freshest and most diverse seafood.
What to Buy at Con Dao Market
- Fresh seafood such as fish, squid, sea snails, shrimp, and blue crabs caught around the island.
- Dried fish, dried squid, and other dried seafood items to bring home as gifts.
- Terminalia catappa seeds (hat bang), a well-known local specialty of Con Dao.
- Souvenirs, scarves, clothing, and handicrafts.
What to Eat at Con Dao Market
- Buy fresh seafood and have it prepared on the spot at stalls for a fee charged per kilogram.
- Enjoy breakfast and snacks at small food stalls inside and around the market.
- Seafood and sea snail eateries in Con Son town close to the market.
How to Get There
- The market is located right in the center of Con Son town, just a few minutes away on foot or by motorbike from local hotels.
- From Con Dao Airport to the center is typically a 20–30 minute drive.
- Renting a motorbike is the most popular way to get around the island.
Tips for Visitors
- Go early in the morning to buy fresh seafood and avoid the heat.
- Bring small-denomination cash, and consider comparing prices across a few stalls before buying.
- Clarify seafood prices and cooking fees before placing an order.
- Combine your trip with a visit to Hang Duong Cemetery, a tour of Con Dao Prison, and a stroll along the Con Son coastline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time does Con Dao Market open?
The market opens in the morning from about 5:00 to 10:00 AM and in the afternoon from around 4:00 PM until dusk.
Can you have seafood cooked at Con Dao Market?
Yes, many stalls offer on-site preparation for seafood bought at the market, usually charged per kilogram.
What should I buy at Con Dao Market as gifts?
Terminalia catappa seeds (hat bang), dried fish, dried squid, and souvenirs are popular choices among visitors.
Need a guide when visiting Con Dao Market?
- Post a free tour guide request – receive quotes from local tour guides and interpreters.
See more
Market opening hours and operations are subject to change; please check before your visit.
