Tuy Hoa Market – The Largest Market in Phu Yen, A Paradise for Nau Land Specialties

Tuy Hoa Market – the central and most bustling market in the coastal city of Tuy Hoa, now part of Dak Lak Province (formerly Phu Yen). This is the most convenient place to shop for "xu Nau" (Phu Yen) specialties and savor some rustic local dishes.

History and Features

• The market is situated right in the city center, bordered on four sides by four main streets of Tuy Hoa.
• It is the busiest trading hub within the market network of former Phu Yen.
• The market accommodates about 1,600 permanent business stalls with thousands of small vendors.
• Goods are diverse, ranging from fresh food and seafood to dried goods, clothing, and household items.

What to Buy at Tuy Hoa Market

• One-sun-dried beef and sand lizard rolls (cha dong) – two popular specialties to bring home as gifts.
• Hoa Da rice paper, Phong Hau green sticky rice treats, and various traditional cakes.
• Fresh and dried seafood such as squid, fish, and shrimp sourced from the coastal waters of Phu Yen.
• Fish sauce, weaver ant salt, and local seasonings.

What to Eat at Tuy Hoa Market

• Chive noodle soup (banh canh he) – a quintessential breakfast dish of Tuy Hoa locals.
• Phu Yen chicken rice with fragrant turmeric rice and savory shredded chicken.
• Seafood banh can (mini pancakes) baked in earthen molds and served with savory dipping sauce.

How to Get There

• Located right in the center, the market is easily accessible on foot or by motorbike from Tuy Hoa's coastal hotels.
• From Tuy Hoa Airport, it takes about 15–20 minutes by taxi or ride-hailing services.
• Motorbike parking spaces are available around the market perimeter.

Visitor Tips

• Visit in the morning to purchase the freshest seafood and food products.
• Inquire about prices and compare across multiple stalls before buying specialties in large quantities.
• Keep a close watch on personal belongings when the market is crowded.
• In the evening, you can drop by Tuy Hoa Night Market, then visit Nhan Tower located near the city center.

Reference Prices

• Chive noodle soup (banh canh he): around 20,000–30,000 VND/bowl.
• Phu Yen chicken rice: around 25,000 VND/plate.
• One-sun-dried beef with weaver ant salt: around 400,000–600,000 VND/kg, based on typical market rates in Tuy Hoa.

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

Best Time to Visit

• Early morning offers the widest variety of fresh produce and seafood, while noodle soup stalls around the market may sell out early.
• The market operates from about 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM; morning peak hours are typically crowded with shoppers and traffic.
• The afternoon sees fewer crowds, making it ideal for leisurely shopping for dried specialty gifts.
• During the days leading up to Tet, the market is exceptionally busy, so it is advisable to visit early and watch your personal belongings carefully.

Useful Information for Visitors

• Payment: Cash is primary, though many vendors accept QR code transfers; it is advisable to bring small denomination bills.
• Restrooms: The market has restrooms for shoppers and vendors, which may charge a small fee; ask vendors for directions.
• Language: This is a traditional local market where sellers speak with a Phu Yen accent and rarely speak English; international visitors should use a translation app.
• Shopping: When buying specialties in large quantities, compare prices across several stalls; motorbike parking is available around the market.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the opening hours of Tuy Hoa Market?

The market is usually open daily from around 5:00 AM to 5:00 PM; morning is the busiest and liveliest time.

What specialties should I buy as gifts at Tuy Hoa Market?

Sun-dried beef, sand lizard patties (cha dong), Hoa Da rice paper, Phong Hau green sticky rice treats, and weaver ant salt are popular choices.

Is there a night market at Tuy Hoa Market?

Tuy Hoa Market operates during the day; in the evening, visitors can go to the Tuy Hoa Night Market near the beach, open from about 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

See Also

• Dam Market Quy Nhon
• Khu 6 Market Quy Nhon
• Hoi An Night Market
• Nha Trang Night Market