Dalat Shopping Guide

Dalat is not just a destination for romance; it is also a haven for specialty shopping, including locally-made jams, temperate vegetables, and the renowned Dalat wines.

Dalat Central Market

Situated at the base of a hill, Dalat Central Market features a multi-storey building with unique architecture. It connects the Hoa Binh area at the hilltop via a bridge from its second level and leads down to Xuan Huong Lake at the bottom through a pedestrian walkway to its first floor. This characteristic makes it a symbolic meeting point of mountains and waters, reflecting the ups and downs of the landscape. Daily, the market attracts local specialties from all over Dalat, making it an ideal spot to experience the essence of this wonderland.
Photo: dulichdalat.pro

As you approach the front of the market, a vibrant display of flowers awaits you. Dive into the colors and fragrances of countless flower varieties, including orchids, mimosa, gladiolus, chrysanthemums, carnations, and hydrangeas. These are available as sprigs or in bouquets, either fresh or dried. Dalat's dried flowers are particularly remarkable, retaining their charming beauty for two to three years, making them a perfect souvenir to take home.

Moving inside, just past the floral displays, you'll find stalls brimming with fresh fruits and vegetables. At an elevation of 1,500 meters (4,920 ft.), Dalat enjoys a cool climate year-round, which contributes to its unique array of produce not found elsewhere in Vietnam. Many of these items are crafted into exquisite products such as strawberry preserves, mulberry syrup, artichoke tea, dried fruits, and Vang Dalat wine. Don't hesitate to ask vendors for samples; they are certainly worth trying, as they showcase Dalat's finest offerings.

The second storey is filled with kiosks selling a variety of souvenirs and woolen goods in numerous designs and colors. Particularly delightful are the woolen jumpers, scarves, and hats hand-knitted by talented local artisans. Unique engravings on pine wood, created with a "fire-pen" technique by a family with a copyright, are also noteworthy treasures. However, be mindful that the market closes at 6 p.m., signaling the end of your shopping experience. Yet, to lift your spirits, the nearby night market (locally known as Hades Market) opens, operating until 4 a.m. the following day. This market features many of the same items seen during the day, often at lower prices, and it retains a lively atmosphere that extends the fun of Dalat into the night.

Strawberry Gardens

If you want to expand your shopping excursion, consider renting a motorbike or taking a xe om (motorbike taxi) to one of the strawberry gardens on the outskirts of the city. Visiting in May and June might afford you the opportunity to pick your own strawberries. If you're not visiting during the harvest season, these jam production houses provide excellent opportunities to sample Artichoke tea and homemade jams.
Photo: kinhnghiemdulich.com

A jar of strawberry or mango jam makes a delightful souvenir to bring home. Additionally, if you are a tea enthusiast, Dalat’s famous Artichoke tea is celebrated for its health benefits, helping to cool the liver after drinking alcohol and promoting better sleep.

Come and discover the magic of Dalat for yourself!