Vinh City, located in Nghe An Province, Central Vietnam, captivates visitors with its vibrant atmosphere. As a major hub for commerce in the city, Vinh Market is also a must-see attraction for tourists. Within its premises, you will find all sorts of products, providing a genuine peek into the city’s culture. Prepare to be immersed in local life as you explore this bustling marketplace.
1. Location and history of Vinh Market
- Location: Cao Thang Street, Hong Son Ward, Vinh City, Nghe An Province
Vinh Market stands as a prominent trading hub in the North Central region of Vietnam. With a history spanning over a century, this market now boasts over 3,200 stalls. As Vinh City progresses, the market thrives, becoming increasingly bustling.
The Vinh Market’s opening hours are usually from early morning until night. It is mostly populated by long-standing merchants who acquire items in bulk, providing a varied choice of products at competitive costs. Vinh Market is Nghe An’s largest market, an important wholesale distribution center to adjacent provinces and even over the border into Laos.
Read more: Is Vinh worth visiting? Top unmissable things to explore
2. Things to explore in Vinh Market in Nghe An
2.1. Savor Nghe An’s specialties
One of the best things to do in Vinh is to enjoy Nghe An’s specialties. Vinh Market is a foodie’s paradise, offering a wide variety of local foods at reasonable prices. For only 20,000 VND, you can enjoy a variety of treats, for example, banh mi thit quay for 15,000 VND. This delicious treat entices with its crispy roasted pork belly, which is seasoned with a blend of spices and herbs, all tucked inside a warm baguette.
For a mere 5,000 VND, you can enjoy banh goi or banh nep filled with either sweet mung bean paste or savory minced meat. Another popular snack here is banh duc, priced at 20,000 VND. These smooth rice flour cakes are served with savory fish sauce and tangy pickled vegetables. Grilled skewers, available for 10,000 VND, are another favorite at Vinh Market with various variations, all grilled to perfection.
2.2. Taste coffee with milk foam – a special drink in Vinh Market
Coffee with milk foam is a must-try at Vinh Market, a specialty that has become a local favorite due to its rich, creamy foam that is made from a combination of strong coffee and sweetened condensed milk. What makes this drink unique is the carefully constructed layer of frothy milk foam on top that holds its texture even when shaken.
Coffee with milk foam has a well-balanced flavor profile. The sweetness of the milk and the creamy froth offset the harshness of the coffee to create a pleasing combination. It is accessible to everyone due to its affordability, usually costing 20,000 for each cup.
Read more: Central Vietnam itinerary: Must-go places & travel guide
2.3. Shop for local products
Vinh Market is a thriving center of business, providing a wide range of products to meet demands for both retail and wholesale. The market is a popular place for tourists looking to purchase since it is a key commercial hub in Nghe An. Visitors can find everything here, from apparel and everyday essentials to distinctive souvenirs.
2.4. Learn about the life of the local people
Visitors to Vinh Market have a unique chance to become fully immersed in the everyday life of the people living in Nghe An. In addition to shopping, visitors can take in the genuine hospitality of the locals. A clear image of the region’s cultural fabric is painted by the market scenes, which are populated with buyers, sellers, and the smells of regional specialties.
3. Top attractions near Vinh Market
- Vinh City Pedestrian Street
Vinh City Pedestrian Street is a bustling center open every Friday and Saturday from 7:00 pm to 11:30 pm. Approximately 1.5 kilometers long, this bustling boulevard has plenty of food, fashion, and entertainment stalls. The street also showcases various musical performances, adding to its lively atmosphere.
- Ho Chi Minh Square
Ho Chi Minh Square was built in honor of President Ho Chi Minh, a revered leader in Vietnam’s modern history. It is a cultural landmark where the locals congregate for important events and daily activities.
- Vinh Ancient Citadel
Vinh Ancient Citadel, constructed in 1804, was a fortress in Vinh City. It was built with European and Asian architectural characteristics, including strong walls, military structures, and a moat. Despite wartime devastation, the citadel’s three gates still stand, representing the region’s rich historical legacy.
- The Temple of Emperor Quang Trung
Situated atop Dung Quyet Mountain, the Temple of Emperor Quang Trung holds great cultural significance in Nghe An. A beautiful 1-kilometer trek up the mountain leads to the temple.
More than just a marketplace, Vinh Market reflects the city’s growth. It offers a captivating glimpse into the local life, showcasing the vibrant energy of Vinh’s community. Here, visitors can experience the bustle of daily life, taste traditional foods, and interact with friendly vendors eager to share their stories.
When you are in Nghe An, don’t forget to see VinWonders Cua Hoi making its debut in Nghe An Province as the largest entertainment complex in North Central Vietnam. Built to international standards, VinWonders Cua Hoi is set to open on June 1, 2024, promising visitors world-class experiences throughout the four seasons and asserting Nghe An’s thriving position on the tourist map of Vietnam.
Book VinWonders Cua Hoi ticket now