Phan Thiet Market – The coastal city's oldest market, delicious squid at reasonable prices

Author: Quản trị viên Updated: 10/02/2026 Views: 45

Phan Thiet Market on Ly Thuong Kiet Street, open around 5:30 AM - 6:00 PM: buy squid, fresh seafood, dried goods, fish sauce, and enjoy banh can, banh uot, and fish cakes.

Phan Thiet Market – the largest and oldest market in the center of Phan Thiet, now part of Lam Dong Province (formerly Binh Thuan). The market is famous for fresh seafood, especially squid, along with many rustic breakfast dishes.

Quick Overview

Address: Ly Thuong Kiet Street, Phan Thiet Ward, Lam Dong Province (formerly Binh Thuan)
Opening hours: Around 5:30 AM – 6:00 PM daily
Admission: Free
Highlights: The largest central market in the coastal city, featuring extensive fresh and dried seafood sections

History and Features

This is the largest and oldest market in Phan Thiet.
The market features dedicated sections for various types of seafood, including sea snails, shrimp, squid, crabs, blue crabs, and octopus.
In addition to seafood, it also sells fresh produce, vegetables, dried goods, and household items.
The market is most bustling in the early morning when the catch arrives directly from the fishing port.

What to Buy at Phan Thiet Market

Fresh squid – renowned for its chewy texture and natural sweetness.
Dried and frozen seafood, such as dried squid, dried fish, and dried shrimp.
Phan Thiet fish sauce and other specialty dipping sauces.
Vegetables and fresh fruits, including Binh Thuan dragon fruit.

What to Eat at Phan Thiet Market

Banh can (mini savory rice pancakes) and banh uot (steamed rice rolls) – popular breakfast choices among locals.
Fish cakes and various dishes made from fresh sea fish.
Mi Quang (Quang-style noodles) and banh mi with meatballs at food stalls around the market.

How to Get There

Located in central Phan Thiet, it is easily accessible by motorbike, taxi, or ride-hailing services.
From the Mui Ne resort area, it takes about 20–30 minutes by car to reach the city center.
Motorbike parking is available around the market area.

Tips for Visitors

Arrive early in the morning to pick the freshest seafood and enjoy a local breakfast.
Always ask for prices per kilogram and check the scales before purchasing.
Bring a cooler bag if you plan to transport fresh seafood over long distances.
Nearby attractions include the Ca Ty River, Phan Thiet Water Tower, and Duc Thanh School.

Reference Prices

One-sun dried squid: around 300,000–450,000 VND/kg depending on quality.
Fresh shrimp: around 200,000–300,000 VND/kg depending on type and size.
Phan Thiet fish cakes: around 150,000–200,000 VND/kg.
Dragon fruit: around 15,000–30,000 VND/kg for white flesh; red-flesh variety is roughly twice as high.
Banh re (sweet potato mesh cake): around 15,000–25,000 VND per pack of 10 pieces.
Fish cake noodle soup (Banh canh cha ca): around 15,000–30,000 VND/bowl.

Prices are for reference only and may vary depending on the season and individual stalls.

Best Time to Visit

Early morning from around 5:30 AM is the ideal time for the freshest seafood and more reasonable prices.
Late afternoon before the market closes (around 6:00 PM) offers better bargains, though selections are limited.
Leading up to Tet (Lunar New Year), the market is vibrant and packed with locals shopping for dried seafood, fish sauce, and festive treats.

Useful Information for Visitors

Payment: Cash is still the most common method, though many vendors accept QR transfers; it is advisable to bring small change.
Restrooms: The market has public restrooms, which may charge a small fee, or you can use the facilities at nearby eateries.
Language: Vendors predominantly speak Vietnamese, so it is recommended to use a translation app or visit with a guide when purchasing in large quantities.
On-site cooking: You can ask vendors to cook seafood right at the market for an additional fee; be sure to confirm the price beforehand.