Vietnam is a treasure trove for anyone who loves picking up unique and affordable souvenirs. From intricate handicrafts to delicious snacks, the local markets are full of interesting finds that will remind you of your travels. Whether you’re after something functional or decorative, there’s something for every taste. Here’s a guide to finding the best markets and spots for souvenir shopping across the country. Let’s explore what to buy and where to get it!
Popular Souvenirs to Bring Home from Vietnam
1. Silk and Textiles
Vietnam is famous for its high-quality silk and handcrafted textiles. You can buy silk scarves, ties, dresses, or even rolls of fabric to bring home. The bright colors and fine quality make it a perfect gift for friends or family.
If you’re into handbags, consider picking up one made from brocade fabric, a traditional textile with stunning patterns. It’s a popular craft among the ethnic minorities in the north of Vietnam.
2. Lacquerware
Lacquerware is one of the most iconic Vietnamese crafts. You’ll find beautiful bowls, trays, vases, and even paintings coated in layers of lacquer. These art pieces are elegant and durable.
The designs range from traditional to modern, so there’s something for every style. Lacquerware is easy to pack for your trip back home and makes an excellent gift.
3. Ceramics
Vietnamese ceramics are widely admired for their simple, earthy designs. You’ll often find bowls, teapots, vases, and plates in shades of blue and white. These pieces add a rustic charm to any home.
Villages like Bat Trang, just outside Hanoi, are known for their high-quality ceramics. Even if you don’t visit the village itself, you’ll find plenty of ceramics at markets around the country.
4. Coffee
Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer, so it’s no surprise that coffee is a popular souvenir. Vietnamese coffee is bold and robust, and you can pick up a bag of beans or grounds from many markets.
Don’t forget to buy a traditional Vietnamese phin (filter) to recreate your café experience at home. Vietnamese iced coffee (ca phe sua da) is a must-try, and now you can make it in your own kitchen!
5. Tea
If coffee isn’t your thing, consider grabbing some Vietnamese tea. Green tea is the most popular and widely available, but you can also try jasmine, lotus, and artichoke tea. These flavors are unique to Vietnam and make for a calming gift or souvenir.
6. Spices
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its fresh herbs and flavorful spices. Packets of dried lemongrass, star anise, cinnamon, and peppercorn are easy to find and take home. They take up minimal space in your luggage but will have a big impact on your cooking.
Phu Quoc Island is famous for its pepper, so be sure to pick up a bag if you’re in the area.
7. Conical Hat (Non La)
The iconic conical hat, known as the “non la,” is one of the most recognizable symbols of Vietnam. It’s not just a picturesque souvenir; it’s a functional item used by locals to protect them from the sun and rain.
You can buy it in different sizes and styles at almost every market in Vietnam. It’s also a unique and photograph-worthy item to bring home.
8. Vietnamese Paintings and Art
Vietnamese artists use both traditional and modern styles to create stunning artworks. You’ll find paintings on silk, paper, and canvas. The paintings reflect the beauty of Vietnamese life, from landscapes to scenes of daily activities.
If you prefer modern art, there are plenty of contemporary galleries in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City where you can pick up a one-of-a-kind piece.
9. Ethnic Minority Handicrafts
The diverse ethnic groups in Vietnam, especially in the north, are skilled in creating beautiful handicrafts. You can find textiles, garments, bags, and jewelry made by indigenous communities like the Hmong and Dao.
These handmade items are richly patterned and colorful, perfect for bringing a little bit of Vietnamese culture home with you.
10. Snake Wine
If you want a souvenir with a real “wow” factor, consider grabbing a bottle of snake wine. Yes, that’s a real snake preserved in rice wine! People in Vietnam believe it has medicinal properties.
It’s definitely a conversation starter, so if you’re looking for something unique and maybe a little shocking, this could be it. Grab one at local markets or specialty stores throughout the country.
Best Markets for Souvenir Shopping in Vietnam
1. Hanoi: Dong Xuan Market
Dong Xuan Market is the largest market in Hanoi and one of the best places to grab souvenirs. Here, you’ll find clothes, textiles, and handicrafts. It’s a bit overwhelming at first with all the different stalls, but it’s worth the visit if you want to find affordable gifts.
Bargaining is the norm here, so don’t be shy about haggling down the price. If you’re wondering where to find traditional Vietnamese gifts in the capital, this is it.
2. Hanoi: Hang Gai Street
If you’re specifically after silk and embroidered goods, head over to Hang Gai Street, also known as “Silk Street.” This area focuses on high-quality silk items like scarves, robes, and fabrics.
It’s more laid back compared to Dong Xuan Market, but the prices are generally higher. Still, you’re paying for the quality and a more relaxed shopping experience.
3. Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market
Ben Thanh Market is in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City and is one of the most famous markets in Vietnam. You can find just about anything here, from lacquerware to coffee, clothes, and jewelry.
The market can feel touristy, but it’s convenient for finding all of your souvenirs in one place. Be prepared to bargain, especially the more you buy!
4. Ho Chi Minh City: Binh Tay Market
Binh Tay Market is in the city’s Chinatown (Cho Lon) and offers a more local experience than Ben Thanh. This is where you’ll find goods at wholesale prices, especially if you’re buying in bulk.
If you’re after dried goods like tea, coffee, and spices, Binh Tay is a great spot to explore. It’s less touristy but still has plenty of unique finds.
5. Hoi An: Central Market
Hoi An is known for its charm and gorgeous lantern-lit streets, but the Central Market is where you’ll find some excellent souvenirs. It’s smaller than the big city markets, but the quality of goods here is top-notch.
Hoi An is famous for tailors, so if you want custom clothing, this is the place to be. You’ll also find local foods, spices, and ceramics.
6. Sapa: Sapa Market
If you’re visiting the mountains in the north, Sapa Market is a great place to buy handmade goods from the local ethnic minority groups. You’ll find stunning textiles, hand-knit garments, and intricate jewelry.
Be prepared to fall in love with the intricate designs reflecting the rich cultural history of the hill tribes in this region.
7. Hue: Dong Ba Market
Dong Ba Market is the place to shop if you’re in central Vietnam. Hue is a quieter city, and its market is a good spot to pick up lacquerware, conical hats, and other crafts.
On top of that, you can sample some local snacks here while hunting for souvenirs. Don’t forget to grab a small bottle of Vietnamese fish sauce to elevate your home cooking!
Tips for Souvenir Shopping in Vietnam
1. Bargain Wisely
Bargaining is expected in most markets. Don’t feel bad about offering a lower price to start with; bargaining is just part of the fun. However, always remain polite! Once you get a fair price, close the deal with a smile.
2. Buy Local
Wherever possible, buy directly from local artisans. Whether it’s textiles, art, or fresh spices, buying from the maker supports their business and ensures the craft’s authenticity.
3. Pack Safely
Breakable items like ceramics and lacquerware should be packed carefully. Ask the seller for extra wrapping or use your clothing to cushion fragile pieces so they survive the trip back home.
4. Shop Early
Markets can get crowded later in the day. If you want the best experience, it’s a good idea to shop early in the morning when the markets are quieter. You’ll also have more time to chat with the vendors and learn about the items you’re buying.
Conclusion
Souvenir shopping in Vietnam is about more than just picking up cheap knick-knacks. It’s a way to take home memories of the culture, craftsmanship, and beauty of the country. Whether you’re in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or a remote mountain village, there’s always a market offering something special. So, grab your shopping bag and get ready for some great finds!
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