vietnam tourist gifts

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The Best Vietnam Souvenirs: 25 Things To Buy + 1 Thing To AVOID

Published April 17, 2023 · Updated April 17, 2023

Vietnam is jam-packed with local markets, chaotic streets, entertaining vendors, souvenir stalls, and designer galleries that are almost guaranteed to leave you with a lighter wallet and heavier luggage on your return home. Read on to discover the 25 best items that make for perfect Vietnam souvenirs. (And one thing to avoid!)

Boasting a rich culture, interesting history, beautiful landscapes, and a wealth of inspiration, a trip to Vietnam is sure to leave lasting memories .

Take a piece of the experience home with these popular + traditional gifts and souvenirs.

This guide will enlighten you into the best souvenirs available for purchase, where in Vietnam to buy them, and what to expect to pay.

Get your wallets out and let’s get into it guys 🙂

What’s the one thing you should absolutely stay away from in Vietnam ? Continue reading to the end to find out…

Things to remember when shopping in Vietnam

First-time travellers to Vietnam may find it difficult to know what to expect when doing souvenir or general shopping in Vietnam.

Here are some tips:

• You should expect to bargain for the items you’d like to buy as souvenirs. If you’re not use to it, this may seem strange at first. However, bartering is the norm in local markets and many other places across Vietnam.
• A general rule of thumb is to pay around 40-50% of the initial quoted price .
• If you’re looking to buy more than one item, always ask for a deal or combined discount and the total price will be reduced.
• You get what you pay for . Lower quality souvenirs are available at a low price, but may not last as long.
• It is advisable to browse the fixed-price shops outside of the markets and then using this as a base, negotiate with the shops once inside.
• Don’t buy souvenirs from the first place you see. Get a feel for the offerings and prices from the neighbourhood first.
• If you’re looking to purchase high-ticket items a little research into quality and reputation goes a long way.

One last thing to note…

• Having said this, don’t overpay for souvenirs, gifts, and other items in Vietnam… However, don’t get too caught up looking around or bartering to save a few cents.

By making a purchase you’re contributing to a family in Vietnam, while getting a wonderful memento that’ll bring you much joy at the same time.

Use that time to enjoy your vacation in Vietnam instead.

VIETNAM SOUVENIRS

Ok, now let’s get into the best things to buy in Vietnam.

1| Conical Hat (Nón Lá)

Known locally as nón lá, the classic conical hat is the most recognisable symbol of the country going back 3,000 years.. These hats certainly make for novel souvenirs from Vietnam.

Rich with cultural sentiment and historical significance, the conical hat is practical too. Handwoven using bamboo or palm leaf, nón lá is durable and light – designed to protect one from the sun and the rain .

The conical hat is also used as a fashion item accompanying traditional costumes in Vietnam. In addition, it is often used as an accessory when going to festivals or pagodas.

Add nón lá to your list of things to buy in Vietnam.

Best travel tip: When looking at the hats, choose one with a chin strip so that it won’t slide down or easily get blown away.

Where to buy a conical hat?

It is easily accessible for purchase, particularly at any of the traditional markets or souvenir shops.

Ho Chi Minh City:

• Binh Thanh Market
• Old Quarter
• Dong Xuan Market in Dong Xuan

How much does a conical hat cost in Vietnam:

Depending on the quality, these hats cost between VND 30,000  and VND 110,000 at the souvenir shops while you can pick one up at the local market for only VND 10,000.

2|  Áo Dài Vietnamese Traditional Dress

The national garment of this SE Asian country, Áo Dài are wonderful Vietnam souvenirs.

This traditional, tight fitting long dress, used by both men and women especially on special occasions, can be found all over Vietnam. The garment comprises long sleeves, a stand collar, and side seam slits up to the waist worn over pants.

Said to have been inspired by the royal Chinese Qing Dynasty, each Áo Dài comes in two main colours. The long dress in one colour and the pants underneath in a contrasting colour.

If you’re really into it, why not buy fabric and get a tailor to make an Áo Dài specially for you or a loved one.

Where to buy Ao Dai in Vietnam?

Áo Dài can be easily found in tailor shops in Vietnam.

Hang Da Market is a good place to shop for ready-made Áo Dài.

Alternatively, if you’re feeling fancy you could purchase the material first and then take it to a local tailor and get it custom made.

The best place to purchase material in Hanoi include Cho Hom market and Hang Gai street.

In Ho Chi Minh City, make your fabric purchase at Ben Thanh market, An Dong market, or Tan Dinh market.

Price: It can take up to a week to finish an Áo Dài at a cost between VND 700,000 to VND 1,400,000. It is worth paying extra for better quality fabric and an experienced tailor.

3| Vietnamese Coffee

Probably one of the best things to buy in Vietnam , providing a taste of your journey long after you’ve returned home.

Vietnamese coffee is famous for its flavour and preparation and can be found almost everywhere, from coffee shops and local markets to shopping malls and also at the airport.

Vietnamese coffee packs make for a great gift from Vietnam for family and friends back home.

The Vietnamese brew their coffee in tin coffee filters that drip into the glass below. Condensed milk is then added.

While in Vietnam don’t miss out on trying cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) – a firm favorite of the locals.

The best coffee bean options are Robusta, and Arabica. Coffee from the Central Highland stands out due to its high quality.

In addition to the beans, purchase a traditional metal drip filter “phin” that is integral part of the coffee making process. This would help in replicating Vietnamese coffee on your return.

Where to find the best coffee beans and ground coffee in Vietnam:

The best option would be to sample the different types of coffee at cafes and then decide which is your favorite.

Hanoi is considered to be the epicentre of Vietnam’s coffee culture. It is also possible to buy great coffee in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Lat, and the central highlands of Tay Nguyen.

A couple of the most popular local coffee brands in Vietnam:

• Trung Nguyên Coffee
• Highland coffee

How much does coffee cost in Vietnam:

The price ranges from VND 90,000 to 250,000 for a kilogram depending on the brand and quality grade.

The phin filters are easy to find at the supermarkets. Aluminium filters cost as little as VND 40,000 while ceramic filters are VND 120,000.

4|  Lacquerware

Originating in the 1930s from the Hanoi college of Fine Art, lacquerware is one of the best mementos from Vietnam. Many in the country pride themselves on their lacquerware skills producing beautiful pieces not limited to paintings, furniture, vases, bowls, and jewellery boxes. These products are strong and weather resistant.

This intricate, time-consuming process comprises many stages of sealing engravings, gold leaf designs, and mother-of-pearl inlays under multiple layers of tree sap resin.

Lacquerware products, found only in Vietnam, are a one-of-a-kind gift or souvenir for the art and design lover.

Where to buy lacquerware in Vietnam?

Available almost everywhere, lacquerware is not a problem to find. A handful of galleries dedicated exclusively to showing lacquerware where you are able to browse through the collections and purchase a souvenir at the same time.

• Vietnam Fine Arts museum
• Thu Huong Lacquer art
• Lacquer Art Tay Ho
• An Dong Craft Market
• Hang Bac Street in Hanoi

How much does Vietnamese lacquerware cost?

The price depends on the size of the object and the length of the process that the item has undergone. It usually starts around VND 50,000 for smaller items, and can go up to VND 2,000,000 for lacquerware paintings and furniture.

5|  Vietnamese Paintings

One of my favourite things to buy, paintings make for a wonderful Vietnam souvenir or gift.

As you walk around, notice the infinite number of artists creating work of arts filled with bold colours and textures.

How to find the best paintings in Vietnam:

The best way is to keep an eye open as you wander around the country, its cities and towns. You will find many talented locals painting outside their shops and homes.

I noticed many small stores in Hanoi and Hoi An housing some beautiful pieces.

The streets of Hoi An are filled with art. Alternatively, you can browse in local boutique stores in the Old Quarter. The Nguyen Art Gallery is known for having eye-catching original pieces of hand craft, pottery, and artworks.

How much can you expect to pay for a Vietnamese painting: It’s hardly possible to give a price point as this varies drastically between each piece. This is dependent on the size, the amount of detail and time that goes into each painting.

Price range: VND 200,000 – 1,500,000

6|  Vietnam Food souvenirs

Be sure not to miss out on some of these tasty food treats :

Coconut candy

Originating in the Ben Tre province in the Mekong Delta, coconut candy is a must-buy when in Vietnam.

These sweet treats are made with coconut or coconut flavourings, malt syrup, and sugar and then wrapped in an edible rice paper. Sold individually, they are sold in a wide range of flavours including the original, durian.

Expect to pay between VND 40,000 – 80,000 for a bag of sweets.

Kẹo chuối – banana candy

Handmade in small villages in the Mekong delta, banana candy is made by boiling banana until it is reduced to a black liquorice-like substance.

You can find these yummy treats at the Ben Thanh market or the less touristy and cheaper option at Cholon old Chinatown.

O Mai – salted dried fruit

A traditional specialty particularly in Hanoi, o mai is dried fruits mixed with sugar, salt, lime, and spices to obtain a tasty snack. Fruit used include peach, plum, star fruit, and pineapple. Traditionally used for medicinal purposes in the past, ô mai makes for a great gift from Vietnam nowadays. It is easy to carry and long-lasting.

Where to find: In local stores or markets in the main cities.

• Hang Duong Street
• O Mai Hong Lam
• O Mai Tien Thinh

Ho Chi Minh City

• Ham Nghi road

Expect to pay around VND 200,000 for 500 grams of dried fruit.

Maybe you’re feeling adventurous and keen to try vot vin lon and these 35  weird + exotic foods ?

7|  Propaganda Posters

Propaganda and slogans were used during the Vietnam War to encourage the local population and to rally troops. These war memorabilia are now available for purchase. Comprising graphic representations of the country’s ideology and patriotic past, they make for an interesting and unique souvenir from your time in Vietnam.

Propaganda posters are the most popular, but photographs, uniforms, medals, flags , and books are also available.

You can easily find reproductions of propaganda posters in several art galleries. Usually stacked in piles, the posters can take some time to go through. They come in both canvas and rice paper, although I prefer the latter as it feels more authentic.

Reminiscent of the war and appealing to the history enthusiast, you can also often find originals that cost more than the common prints sold in many souvenir shops. They also make for a fun gift and are easy to carry back home.

Where to buy propaganda posters and war memorabilia?

• Dan Sinh Market Số 104, Yersin, Phường Nguyễn Thái Bình, Quận 1
• Le Duan Street

Hanoi old quarter:

• Old Propaganda Posters Shop 1 Nhà Chung, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm
• Hanoi Gallery Old Propaganda Posters 98 Phố Mã Mây, Hàng Buồm, Hoàn Kiếm

How much do these propaganda posters cost in Vietnam:

Prices vary greatly depending on whether it’s a replica or an original. Replicas are usually in the range of VND 200,000 dependent on the size.

Buying Tip: If buying posters and paintings, you can easily find a piece of plastic pipe that makes for the perfect storage for rolled posters. These can be found at many of the local shops costing just a few cents.

8|  Dó paper products

Made from the bark of the Rhamnoneuron Balansae Dó tree, a wild plant commonly found around local riverbanks, this handmade paper is another awesome souvenir.

The process of making the paper is complex, taking up to three months to complete, but it truly captures the creativity and imagination of Vietnam.

The end result is a soft, light and durable paper used to make paintings, notebooks, and greeting cards.

Why not pick up a handful of do paper postcards as souvenirs in Vietnam and send to friends back home.

Where to buy Do Paper?

You will be able to find these at most book shops in the main cities. Here are a few specifics…

• Nhà Sách Tấn Phát stationery store. A1/16, Hưng Long – Quy Đức
• Ngan Thong Craft Supply. 64 Lê Lợi, Bến Nghé, Quận 1
• Zó Project. Adjacent to the rail track and find house no 27, 10A Điện Biên Phủ.

How much do Do Paper products cost in Vietnam:

The prices vary depending on the print, starting at around VND 35,000

9|  Silk Souvenirs

Made from the cocoons of silkworms, silk is plentiful throughout Vietnam and comes in a variety of beautiful products. Things like clothing, home-ware, accessories can be found throughout and these items are popular gifts from Vietnam.

No longer exclusive to royalty and the rich, silk is used daily by the locals. Made in traditional hand-looms the high quality silk items come in beautiful designs and colours and is renowned for its lightness and durability.

The best places for authentic silk products are:

• Hang Gai street
• Hoi An Silk Village
• Van Phuc Silk Village

Prices start at around VND 70,000 per meter. Silk below that price is originating from China and of questionable quality. Premium quality silk goes for around VND 200,000 per metre.

10|  T-shirts

There are few things as plentiful as printed T-shirts in Vietnam. They serves as fun and inexpensive Vietnam souvenirs.

Available in a wide variety of colours, designs, print and slogans, you might have a difficult time choosing.

Why not pack a little less from home and pick up a couple t-shirts in Vietnam as clothes, gifts, and souvenirs.

For some reason, fruit-printed Hawaiian shirts are all the rage in Vietnam. If you’re into that sort of thing, Vietnam is your place. You can also get matching dresses, shorts, and other clothing items.

Where to buy T-shirts in Vietnam:

Once again, the local markets and night markets are filled to the brim with these. Browse through and scope out a list of favourites and prices.

How much do T-shirts across Vietnam cost:

Prices start at VND 100,000 for unbranded items and VND 200,000 for fake branded shirts.

11|  Lanterns

Recreate the street ambiance of your time in Vietnam by bringing some colourful lanterns back home with you.

These lanterns illuminating the streets of Vietnam are a symbol of happiness and good luck. They will transform your own space with their silk patterns and colourful hand painted design.

Travel tip: Look out for the lanterns that can easily be folded to make packing and carrying that much easier.

Where to purchase good quality lanterns in Vietnam:

Hoi An is absolutely the best place to buy lanterns. Walk around the streets of the Old Quarter and you’re almost guaranteed to come across the perfect Vietnamese souvenir.

How much do lanterns cost from Vietnam:

The price varies depending on the style and quality. VND 50,000- 400,000.

12| Puppets & Masks

Used in festivals and theatre shows throughout the year, puppets and masks are fun Vietnam mementos.

Made from palm leaves and bamboo, these colourful creations vary in design between each village and are perfect addition to a bare wall or as a gift.

13|  Vietnamese Musical Instruments

Music plays a significant role in the culture of Vietnam and handcrafted musical instruments are often purchased as practical gifts for the music enthusiast.

Keep an eye out for bamboo flutes, mini t’rungs and mini xylophones

The sweet sounds are sure to remind you of your time here and make for a dope Vietnam souvenir.

Travel tip: Make sure that wood items are allowed into your home country and that the wood has been treated before purchasing.

Where to buy traditional musical instruments in Vietnam:

There are many shops and workshops for selling instruments. Seek them out at musical instrument stores in and around the tourist areas.

The following streets are your best bet:

• Cách Mạng Tháng 8
• Nguyen Thien Thuat street
• Hang Manh street

How much to expect to pay:

This depends on the quality and on the type of instrument.

Bamboo flute: VND 10,000 – VND 100,000 T’rungs: VND 200,000 – VND 1,000,000 Violin: VND 500,000 to VND 1,500,000

14|  Guoc Moc Wooden clogs

Traditional footwear for both men and women, guoc moc is commonly worn with ao dai to complete the ensemble. Outside of this it is considered old fashioned and not worn frequently, but you can still find some if you would like to own one as a souvenir.

Where to buy Guoc Moc in Vietnam?

These are found in many traditional stores throughout Vietnam.

• Dong Xuan market
• The Old Quarter

How much does Guoc Moc cost in Vietnam:

Expect to pay between VND 10,000 to VND 30,000 for a pair of wooden clogs.

Looking for more Vietnam Memorabilia?

Keep scrolling: I’ve got loads more ↓

15| Chopsticks

What better way to remind you of all the yummy food eaten than a set of chopsticks as best souvenirs from Vietnam.

How much to expect to pay for?

Spend a little more and buy something of good quality. Despite this, it will still be dirt-cheap and of the most affordable things you will buy in Vietnam starting at just VND 20,000 per pair.

16| 3D Greeting Cards

Intricate cards with beautiful designs that pop up once opened, these 3D cards can be found from many street vendors.

Bonus: the cards are flat and don’t take up much space at all.

Choose a card that serves for a special occasion and as cool memories from Vietnam.

VND 10,000 – 30,000.

17|  Vietnam Tea Souvenirs

If you’re looking for a simple souvenir that tastes great, is easy to find and easy to carry, Vietnamese tea is your best bet.

Vietnam has a long history with tea and is currently the 5 th largest tea producer in the world . This traditional drink comes in a wide variety, with the most popular being scented lotus . This is followed closely by green tea and black tea.

Where to buy tea in Vietnam?

Vietnamese tea can be purchased in any local market or supermarket.

The average price of tea in Vietnam is around VND 100,000 per kilogram.

18|  Bamboo products

Bamboo-made items make for some of the most popular Vietnam souvenirs. An added bonus is that it is an eco-friendly, sustainable product.

You will find a variety of handcrafted products like kitchenware, bowls, baskets, and hats at prices suitable for every budget.

Another cool bamboo item that would make for a fun gift is the dragonfly. Unique to Vietnam, the bamboo dragonfly can stand on its mouth on just about any surface.

Where to find bamboo products:

Markets and souvenir shops in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City not limited to:

• Cửa Hàng Bamboo Village 108, Phố Xuân Diệu, Hà Nội
• Mekong Creations 68 Lê Lợi, Phường Bến Thành, Quận 1, Hồ Chí Minh

How much do bamboo products in Vietnam cost:

Again, the price of these products vary depending on the size and intricacies involved.

19|  Jewellery

The country is a great place to find affordable jewellery that make for some of the best Vietnam souvenirs.

You will come across earrings, bracelets, rings, and other creative items from as little as 40k VND. These items will serve as a constant reminder of your travels in Vietnam.

Where to find the best jewellery souvenirs:

Markets, souvenir stores and street vendors are the way to go.

20| Vietnam Ceramics and Pottery

The ceramics you find in Vietnam are handcrafted using traditional methods and the intricate detailing is noteworthy. You will find a wide variety of ceramics in all shapes, colours, and sizes.

Incorporating influences from China, India and Cambodia, ceramics are very much still a part of everyday life of Vietnamese people and can be found everywhere. They make for a long-lasting Vietnamese souvenir and gift.

Where to find ceramic and pottery products in Vietnam?

• Bat Trang pottery village
• Phu Land pottery village
• Many pottery and handcraft shops in the main cities.

How much do ceramic products cost in Vietnam:

Prices start at VND 20,000.

21|  Hand fan

Not just a way to keep cool, but also as an elegant fashion statement, hand fans are another pretty Vietnam souvenir. Made from bamboo, paper, or silk hand fans make for authentic gifts too.

Where to buy hand fans in Vietnam:

• Thach That village
• Old Quarters in Hanoi

Price: This is largely dependent on size and design, the price of a fan ranges from VND 70,000 for a hand fan to VND2,500,000  for a wall-hanging fan.

23|  Reusable bags made from rice bags

You might not think these make for a great purchase, but once you see these re-purposed rice bags I’m almost certain you’d reconsider.

They are stylish, sustainable , unique and a cool souvenir from Vietnam that you’d use over and over again back home.

Make sure to purchase additional bags for friends and family . They will love it too.

24|  Hand Embroidery

I’m willing to bet you know someone that would love to receive some embroidery. Vietnam is your go-to place for all things embroidery that make for pretty Vietnam souvenirs.

The art of hand-embroidery is an ancient handicraft tradition in Vietnam for over 700 years. The items are made of natural materials requiring a lot of skill, time, and effort. Choose from pillowcases, bed sheets, clothing, tablecloths, scarves, and the list goes on.

Where to buy hand embroidery in Vietnam:

Depending on your requirements and budget, embroidery is available in many markets and stalls across Vietnam including at the ethnic markets of Sapa and Ha Giang province. There is usually a big difference in quality between the items made in a factory and those that are handmade.

XQ Hand Embroidery in Nha Trang offers good quality embroidery.

Cost: Prices start at VND 100,000 for simple creations.

25| Vietnamese Tribal Products

With over 50 different ethnic groups in Vietnam, each with their own culture and style, the products produced are just as varied and eye-catching.

The best of these finds are in the mountainous regions of Vietnam such as Sapa, Moc Chau, and Mai Chau amongst others.

If you’re looking for unique products that are handmade at a good price that make for awesome Asian souvenirs, tribal products are your best bet. A purchase also helps to keep this tribal way of life alive.

Where to buy: Tribal products are easily found in the mountainous regions and across some major cities.

The price is dependent on the product, but it is generally available at good prices. The items in the mountainous area will be cheaper than those of the cities.

Let’s end with what to avoid… and why.

Please stay away from purchasing:

Snake wine/liquor

Sure, you want to bring home a unique souvenir from Vietnam, but not at the cost of another life.

Snake wine is produced by infusing whole snakes in a bottle of rice wine. Other animals include dead scorpion, sea horse, or lizard.

Locals believe that by drinking this concoction, one’s virility and health will significantly improve, although these claims are yet to be verified by the medical profession.

This is animal cruelty .

In addition, it is illegal to bring snake wine into many countries.

So save yourself the hassle, save a life and avoid.

Where to buy souvenirs in Vietnam

In addition to those places mentioned individually above, here is a recap on the best places to do some shopping for in Vietnam.

Ben Thanh market Lucky Plaza on Nguyen Hue. Sense Market Tan Dinh market Saigon Square Cholon market

Da Nang Han market Con market

Hanoi Hanoi Old Quarter Hang Gai street Trang Tien Plaza Vincom Tower

_________________________________________________________________

What’s your favourite souvenir from Vietnam?

Any questions ? Be sure to save this post so that you can easily find it when you need it.

And don’t forget to share it with anyone planning a trip to Vietnam soon!

>> Read next: The 10 best cheap islands to visit in Asia and around the world

Looking for more souvenir guides? Check out this fantastic one for the best things to buy in London .

Happy shopping,

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WOW just what I was looking for. Came here by searching for information about my upcoming trip to Vietnam and what to buy. Will have to save this post

That’s awesome. Hope you had a great time and found everything you were looking for!

Definitely agree on custom made ao dai. I find that peppercorn is a great buy too. Made locally and about 1/10th of the price in the US.

Thanks for the recommendations!

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27 of the Best Vietnam Souvenirs that You Must Buy

A trip to Vietnam is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and you will most certainly want to take home some unique memorabilia to remember your fantastic adventure. Here we have 27 of the best Vietnam souvenirs that you must buy whilst in Vietnam. The list includes everything, from a classic conical hat, right down to some more obscure items, such as propaganda posters and whacky kids’ hats.

Disclosure: Wander Vietnam contains affiliate links. If you click on these links and make a purchase, we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our full disclosure policy and privacy policy here.

Awesome Vietnam souvenirs

1. traditional hat ( nón lá).

The nón lá hat is the traditional symbol of Vietnam and is worn by many locals regardless of their sex, age, or social class. A nón lá is usually the number one souvenir for holidaymakers to acquire on their travels in Vietnam. They are great for snapping photos in and make for an exotic souvenir. However, a nón lá is mainly used as a sun protector for farmers who spend long hours in the rice paddies. They are typically made from simple materials such as bamboo, palm leaves, and bark from moc trees.

Price: 20,000 – 50,000 vnd ($0.86 – $2.15).

2. Traditional dress ( áo dài )

The áo dài is a stunningly elegant national garment of Vietnam, worn by both men and women. Although, more commonly worn by women. It consists of a tight-fitted long dress with slits up the side worn over long pants. The garment is usually worn for special occasions, such as Tet (Lunar New Year), Mid-Autumn Festival, and weddings.

Price: 250,000 vnd ($10.77) for one from the market, or 700,000 vnd+ ($30.71) for one tailor-made. You can buy materials from Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, or Hom Market in Hanoi.

3. Guoc moc (wooden clogs)

Now you have your conical hat and áo dài , you may as well complete the look with a pair of guoc mocs. Guoc mocs are traditional wooden clogs that are usually worn with an áo dài . Whilst this type of shoes have been part of the Vietnamese culture for thousands of years, before the use of leather and plastic shoes, they are sadly fading away. However, they still make for a lovely souvenir, even if you don’t plan to wear them.

Price: 100,000 – 200,000 vnd ($4.31 – $8.62).

4. Chopsticks

No doubt that by the time your adventure in Vietnam has come to an end, you will be a pro at using chopsticks. Chopsticks are one of the main utensils when it comes to cooking and eating in Vietnam. So, what better way to reminisce about the mouth-watering Vietnamese food that you blessed your taste buds with? Make sure to grab a few pairs of chopsticks so you can try to replicate some of the dishes at home and feel the authentic pinch of picking up your food.

Price: 40,000 vnd ($1.72) for a pack of 10 plain wooden chopsticks.

5. Paintings

Whether you’re taking a stroll around the shops or sitting enjoying a drink on Beer Street , the opportunity to purchase a beautifully hand-painted picture always presents itself. Arts and crafts are very much part of the Vietnamese culture, so you are sure to find many locals sitting outside of their shops or homes working on their mesmerising artwork. The best thing about buying a painting is that you can carefully roll it up and it won’t take up much space in your luggage.

Price: 250,000 vnd ($10.77) for a small hand painting without a frame. Prices vary depending on size and detail.

6. Shuttlecock toy ( đá cầu )

A đá cầu is a popular toy for both children and adults in the region of Southeast Asia and China. As you roam the parks in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, you will notice many locals enjoying a kickabout with an item that resembles a shuttlecock. The shuttlecock is made only from feathers, washers, and a hitting disk. Why not buy one to take home with you? They are fun for all the family to try their hand at!

Price: 30,000 vnd ($1.29).

7. Children’s hats

The craze in Vietnam, particularly during the winter months, is these cute fluffy hats. Kids love them! Not only do they keep you feeling toasty from the evening chill, but the ears also bop up and down when the paws of the hat are pressed. Even if you don’t have any kids to buy one for, they also make for a fun tool for teaching English online. You’re sure to grab your students’ attention!

Price: 100,000 vnd ($4.31).

8. Fruit outfits

Ah, the famous fruit outfits that are worn by young backpackers. These funky sets of shorts and t-shirts are a great way to add colour to your wardrobe and have fun memorabilia to sport during the summer months in your home country. They are also great if you’re continuing your travels around Southeast Asia and need to pick up a few new items of clothing. You can find these styles of clothes from Hanoi Night Market or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City.

Price: 80,000 vnd ($3.44) for a T-shirt and 50,000 vnd ($2.15) for shorts.

9. Pop-up cards

If you’re looking for a small item that doesn’t add weight to your suitcase, a pop-up card is perfect. These cute colourful cards are handmade by locals and often depict Vietnamese women carrying a fruit basket or dressed in the traditional ao dai. They will come in handy for Birthdays and other special events. You’re family and friends are sure to love them.

Price: 50,000 vnd ($2.15).

10. Coffee beans

Coffee lovers out there are bound to want to take home a few packets of Vietnamese coffee beans. Vietnamese coffee is among the best in the entire world, and locals certainly pride themselves on it. Everywhere you go in Vietnam, you will never be more than a few feet away from a coffee shop. By the way, we totally recommend out check out the Note Coffee ! Treat yourself to a pack of freshly ground coffee. You can buy these on the markets or even at popular coffee shops such as Phuc Long, Coffee House, or Kafa. Whilst you’re at it, you may as well also invest in a phin. A phin is the coffee filter used to make the rich and heavenly delicious Vietnamese ice-coffees.

Price: Vary depending on the brand of coffee. You can pick up cheap bags for 80,000 vnd – 120,000 vnd ($3 – $5).

11. Vietnamese candy

Vietnam is not only famous for its crafts and coffee but also for its confectionery. Make sure to take a few packs of sugary goodness home with you. The most popular candy made in Vietnam is coconut candy, rice cakes, dried fruits, chocolate, and a variety of nuts. You can buy these types of candy from pretty much any major supermarket, or even local convenience stores. You will also find a few of these items in the food section of markets.

Price: 50,000 vnd – 250,000 vnd ($2.15 – $10.74) depending on the type of candy and quantity. Coconut candy is on the lower end, and dried fruits and nuts are on the higher end.

12. Lacquerware

Lacquerware products in Vietnam are distinctive in style and take skilled workers to create these beautiful high-quality items such as bowls, plates, cups, dishes, and vases. The art of lacquerware dates back to the 1930s and is influenced by French colonial times. Any lacquerware product from Vietnam, no matter how big or small, would be the perfect gift for an art lover.

Price: You can buy small items from 60,000 vnd ($2.58). Prices can hike past 3,000,000 vnd ($128) for larger items, such as tables and chairs.

13. Lanterns

Take the opportunity to spoof up the decor in your house or garden. Lanterns are an integral part of festivities in Vietnam. During the Mid-Autumn festival and Tet (Lunar New Year), you will find plenty of lanterns adding a colourful classic charm to the cities of Vietnam. You can typically find lanterns being sold on the markets in any major city. Although, Hoi An is the most famous place to purchase a picturesque light.

Price: 40,000 vnd – 100,000 vnd ($1.72 – $4.30) depending on the size.

14. Silk products

Silk products are aplenty in Vietnam, particularly in Hanoi where the famous Van Phuc Silk Village is located. A trip to the village will not only allow you to buy some of the finest quality silk, but you will also have the opportunity to witness the entire weaving process. Scarves and ties make for the perfect silk gifts!

Price: 150,000 vnd ($6.45) upwards depending on the product and the detail in the designs.

15. Ceramic pottery

Ceramics and pottery items are Vietnamese specialities. If you have extra time in Hanoi, we fully recommend a visit to Bat Trang Pottery Village. Here you will have the opportunity to purchase some incredible vases made from Bat Trang porcelain. We understand that most people won’t be able to lug a gigantic vase back to their home country, that’s why we recommend you take the opportunity to make your own small vase, plate, or cup.

Price: 50,000 vnd ($2.15) to make your own and paint it.

16. Bamboo products

Another popular Vietnam souvenir is a bamboo item, such as a piece of cutlery, basket, or hat. Any bamboo product would make for the perfect gift for the eco-conscious loved one in your life. Even a simple bamboo straw is a quirky stocking filler that will help save the environment.

Price: 50,000 vnd ($2.15) upwards, depending on item, size, and design.

17. Hand-embroidered products

Another craftmanship that the Vietnamese are highly talented at, is hand embroidery. The art of hand embroidery in Vietnam dates back to the 17th century and has been passed down through generations. There is ample choice, from curtains, tablecloths, handkerchiefs, scarves, and more.

Price: 120,000 vnd ($5.16) upwards. The price depends on the complexity of the design.

Whilst Vietnam is more famed for its coffee, the tea selection is also something to write home about. There is tea in almost every flavour you can think of! You will also find that trà đá (Vietnamese iced tea) is a popular drink that is served at the side of the road and in almost all of the local restaurants. It’s often cheaper than a bottle of water. Reminisce your Vietnam holiday with a bag of loose tea leaves.

Price: 40,000 vnd ($1.73) per 200g bag of local tea.

19. Hmong skirts

If a trip to Sapa is on your radar, don’t pass up the opportunity to add a unique Hmong-style skirt to your Vietnam souvenir collection. These colourful skirts are distinctive to the Hmong women who live in the remote villages of Sapa and other Northern provinces in Vietnam. You can easily find these kaleidoscope-style clothing dotted around markets in Sapa town.

Price: 150,000 vnd ($6.45).

20. Musical instruments

For a really quirky Vietnam souvenir idea, consider purchasing a traditional Vietnamese musical instrument. In particular, look out for a sao truc (bamboo flute), dan nguyet (two-string guitar), and dan nhi (two-cord fiddle).

Price: Prices vary depending on the quality of the instrument and where you purchase it.

21. Magnets

No doubt there’s someone in your family that collects magnets. Lucky for you, Vietnam has many designs to offer. Might I recommend one with a cone hat?

22. Football shirts

Not many football teams share the same kit colour as Hanoi’s local team, yet we would argue purple is a wonderful colour and a perfect addition to your collection of football memorabilia. Alternatively, if pink is more your colour, go ahead and sport the wonderfully coloured Saigon football shirt instead.

Price: 100,000 vnd ($4.30).

23. Postcards

An oldie but goldie! Postcards are nostalgic souvenirs that are sure to put a smile on a loved one’s face. Vietnam has no shortage of them, so you will find it easy to pick one up from almost any souvenir shop. To make it extra special, you may want to post it from the famous Saigon Central Post Office in Ho Chi Minh City.

24. Flip-flops made from tyres

During the Vietnam War , Vietnamese soldiers make their shoes from the same material used for car tyres. An interesting fact is that the flip-flops were designed with a symmetrical shape so that the enemy could not track the direction of the footprints. Enjoy your treasure hunt searching for this wartime-inspired souvenir.

25. Tailor-made suits

If you need a new suit for work or a special occasion, Vietnam is the perfect place to get one tailor-made. There are plenty of tailors in the major cities, but we recommend you get one made in Hoi An. After all, getting a tailor-made outfit is one of the best things to do in Hoi An .

Price: Prices vary massively depending on what item of clothing you want to make. Expect to pay 700,000 vnd ($30.28) + for a dress and 3,000,000 vnd ($129.76)+ for a two-piece suit.

26. Propaganda posters

These wartime posters make for the perfect gift for history buffs. Vietnamese propaganda posters were used to raise morale and for various other promotions. Nowadays, they are an interesting item to own and serve as a reminder of the Vietnamese victorious past and certainly make for a cool souvenir from Vietnam.

Price: 250,000 vnd ($10.74) upwards.

27. Hand fan

Finally on this list of Vietnam souvenirs, is a good ol’ hand fan. You will almost certainly be thankful for it if you’re travelling in Vietnam during the summer months. The summer months are scorchio, so it makes sense to treat yourself to one of these perfectly crafted hand fans that flutter their bright colours as you waft up it up and down.

Price: 50,000 vnd ($2.15)

Essential resources for travelling in Vietnam

Travel Insurance – It’s a good idea to have insurance, particularly if you’re going to be riding a motorbike. Our personal choice is Safteywing . You can opt for automatic monthly payments, just like a subscription. It can be purchased whilst already travelling and there is no cap on travel duration.

Visa – You are highly likely to need a visa for Vietnam. iVisa is a fantastic website that is super easy and quick to use. You can quickly make a visa application online.

Accommodation – Booking.com is our go-to when looking to pre-book accommodation online. Booking.com tend almost always to have the best rates and a FREE cancellation policy for most properties.

Overland transport – Our go-to website for overland transport is Bookaway . They have routes all over Vietnam and host a range of transport modes and companies. It is easy to book online and have your ticket sent to your phone.

Tours & Activities – If you want to book tours and activities for Vietnam online, make sure to check out Get Your Guide . Get Your Guide takes the stress out of booking activities abroad. You will also find a range of benefits, such as skip-the-line passes, lunch included in your tours, and so much more.

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21 Unique Vietnam Souvenirs That Travelers Should Buy

Collecting unique souvenirs while traveling is an excellent way to cherish memories and bring a piece of the destination back home. Vietnam, with a rich culture and vibrant markets, offers a wide range of fascinating souvenirs that travelers should consider. From traditional crafts to delicious treats, this article will provide necessary information about 21 unique Vietnam souvenirs that are sure to captivate your senses and teach you the secrets of successful souvenir shopping with expert tips.

12 Local Vietnam Souvenirs To Bring Back Home

One of the most iconic symbols of Vietnam is the elegant Ao Dai. This traditional Vietnamese dress is fashionable and represents the country’s rich cultural heritage. 

Vietnam’s national dress with its unique beauty

The Ao Dai is a long, flowing tunic worn by both men and women in Vietnam, although it is primarily associated with women’s fashion. It consists of a tight-fitting, high-collared top that extends down to the hips and is paired with long, flowing pants that reach the ankles. The tunic is often made from luxurious silk or other lightweight fabrics, and it is tailored to fit the wearer’s body shape, creating a graceful and flattering silhouette.

Where To Buy It

Tailor Shops: In major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City , there are numerous tailors that specialize in creating bespoke Ao Dai. They can guide you in choosing the fabric, design, and measurements to ensure a perfect fit. The price can range from approximately $50 to $300 or more. 

Local Markets: Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, often have stalls selling ready-to-wear Ao Dai. These markets offer a wide variety of designs and sizes at different prices from $20 to $100. However, keep in mind that the fit might not be as tailored as a custom-made Ao Dai.

What You Should Know

Pay attention to the fabric quality when choosing an Ao Dai. Silk is popular due to its luxurious feel and appearance, but other options like chiffon or synthetic blends are available.

Ao Dai has various designs, from simple and understated to intricately embroidered or embellished styles. Choose a design that resonates with your taste and preferences. 

If you opt for a custom-made Ao Dai, make sure to provide accurate measurements to the tailor. They will guide you through the process and ensure the garment fits you perfectly. For ready-to-wear Ao Dai, try them on and check the fit, paying attention to the shoulders, waist, and length.

Conical Hats

The conical hat, also known as the “nón lá” in Vietnamese, is one of the famous things in Vietnam that tourists are attracted to. 

Conical hats in daily life

The conical hat is a type of hat with a wide brim and a conical shape. It is typically made from natural materials such as palm leaves, bamboo, or straw. The hat is lightweight, breathable, and provides shade from the sun, making it ideal for Vietnam’s hot and humid climate. Besides being a practical accessory, it is also worn as a fashion statement and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese traditions and folklore.

Local Markets: Visit bustling local markets like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi. Basic conical hats range from around $1 to $2.

Souvenir Shops: Many souvenir shops in major tourist areas, such as Hoi An Ancient Town or the Old Quarter in Hanoi, offer conical hats as souvenirs. In these places, you can expect to pay from $2 to $5 for a conical hat. 

Craft Villages: Explore traditional craft villages like Chuong Village in Hanoi or Kim Bong Village in Hoi An. These villages specialize in making handicrafts, including conical hats. The handmade conical hats crafted by skilled artisans can cost from $5 to $20 or even more.

• Conical hats come in different sizes, so choose one that fits comfortably on your head. It should neither be too tight nor too loose.

It also comes in various designs, with different patterns or decorations. Select a design that appeals to you and reflects your personal style.

Tribal Textiles

Tribal textiles in Vietnam are handmade textiles created by ethnic minority groups living in the country’s mountainous regions. Each ethnic group has its distinctive weaving techniques, patterns, and motifs, making these textiles unique and culturally significant. The textiles are often made using traditional methods passed down through generations, using materials like cotton, hemp, silk, or a combination of these fibers.

Traditional clothing of Vietnam Hmong minorities

Where To Find It

• Visiting the northern mountainous regions, such as Sapa, Ha Giang, and Mai Chau is recommended. Some famous textile markets in these regions include Bac Ha Market, Can Cau Market, and Dong Van Market.
• Smaller items like scarves or smaller woven pieces can range from approximately $4 to $20. Medium-sized textiles, such as table runners or wall hangings, can range between $20 to $65. Larger and more intricate textiles, such as traditional costumes or bedspreads, can cost more than $65 depending on the piece’s size, complexity, and rarity.
• Look for textiles that are genuinely handmade by local artisans. Avoid mass-produced or machine-made imitations. 

Whenever possible, buy directly from the artisans or cooperatives. This ensures your purchase benefits the local communities and helps sustain their traditional craft practices.

If you plan to use or display the textiles, ensure they are properly cared for to preserve their beauty and longevity. Follow any care instructions provided by the seller or seek professional advice if needed.

>> Explore Ha Giang and its t ribal textiles in this tour: Ha Giang Meet The Local

Silk Products

Vietnam produces a variety of silk products, such as clothing, scarves, accessories, traditional handicrafts, and home decor items. The silk made in Vietnam, which is generally derived from the cocoons of silkworms, is famous for its top-notch quality, smooth texture, and shiny look. The traditional silk weaving techniques have been passed down through generations, and today, Vietnam is recognized as the world’s sixth-largest silk producer and the third-largest silk exporter in Asia.

High-quality silk in Vietnam

Dong Xuan Market and Hang Gai Street (Silk Street) in Hanoi.

You can find customized silk garments and accessories in local tailor shops and boutiques in Hoi An.

Ben Thanh Market and Saigon Square are popular spots to explore silk products in Ho Chi Minh City.

Sapa is known for its ethnic minority communities and traditional crafts. Here, you can find unique silk products that reflect the local culture.

Its Price Range

Silk Scarves: from approximately $6.5 to $22 for standard-sized silk scarves.

Silk Clothing: Ready-to-wear silk dresses, blouses, or shirts can range from $22 to $87. Custom-made silk clothing may have higher prices, depending on the complexity of the design and tailoring.

Silk Accessories: Silk ties, bowties, pocket squares, and handkerchiefs can range from $9 to $35 depending on the quality and brand.

Home Decor Items: Silk cushion covers, table runners, wall hangings, and other decorative pieces can vary widely in price. It can range from $13 to $130 or more.

Look for reputable sellers who offer genuine silk products. Pay attention to the quality of the fabric, the finishing details, and the reputation of the seller or shop.

• Examine the silk product carefully for any defects, loose threads, or color discrepancies. Check the seams, stitching, and overall craftsmanship to ensure you’re getting a high-quality item.

Ask the seller for specific care instructions for the silk product you’re purchasing. Silk requires delicate handling and maintenance, so it’s essential to know how to preserve its quality.

Hand Embroidery

Embroidery has a long history in Vietnam, dating back to ancient times. Various cultural and artistic traditions, including Chinese, French, and indigenous Vietnamese styles have influenced it.

Skilled hands bring intricate designs to life through hand embroidery

Hand embroidery involves stitching intricate designs onto fabric using a needle and thread. It is a meticulous and time-consuming process that requires great skill and attention to detail. The embroidery is often done on silk, satin, or cotton fabric, and the designs can range from traditional motifs to contemporary patterns.

The Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi are popular places to find hand embroidery and other traditional crafts.

Ben Thanh Market and Saigon Square in Ho Chi Minh City are known for their handicrafts, including hand embroidery.

Hoi An, an ancient town in central Vietnam, is renowned for its traditional crafts. You can visit the Hoi An Handicraft Workshop or explore the local markets to find beautiful hand-embroidered items.

Sapa is home to ethnic minority communities known for their textile traditions. You can find unique hand-embroidered products in the local markets and villages.

Look for genuine hand-embroidered pieces made by skilled artisans. Mass-produced or machine-made items may lack the quality and craftsmanship of handmade pieces.

• Some artisans offer customization services, allowing you to request personalized designs or specific colors. This can be a great way to get a unique and meaningful souvenir.

Dong Ho Paintings

As a unique and vibrant traditional art form from northern Vietnam, Dong Ho paintings feature distinctive folk themes and printing techniques.

Yin-yang pig – A famous Dong Ho painting (Source: Collected)

The art products are typically made using woodblocks and natural colors extracted from materials like bark, leaves, and minerals. The process involves carving intricate designs onto wooden blocks, applying ink or colors to the blocks, and then printing the images onto traditional Vietnamese paper known as “do” paper. The paper is made from the bark of the “do” tree and is known for its durability.

These paintings are known for their cheerful and optimistic themes, reflecting the cultural heritage and values of the Vietnamese people.

The village of Dong Ho: It is located about 35 kilometers east of Hanoi. You can also witness the traditional printing process and purchase paintings directly from the artisans.

You can also find it in art galleries, craft stores, and souvenir shops in major cities and tourist destinations.

• The prices of Dong Ho paintings can vary depending on factors such as size, design complexity, and the artist’s reputation. Smaller paintings or prints can range from a few dollars to around $50, while larger and more intricate pieces can cost several hundred dollars or more. 

Look for paintings that bear the seal or stamp of the Dong Ho village, ensuring their authenticity.

Check the quality of the “do” paper, colors, and ink used in the painting. The paper should be sturdy and long-lasting, while the colors should be vibrant and resistant to fading.

Paper Lanterns

The glowing paper lanterns have a rich and meaningful history in Vietnamese culture, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival . It brings families and communities together to celebrate and partake in various activities, all while symbolically warding off evil spirits and inviting good luck into their lives with the lighting of these lanterns.

A mesmerizing glow stems from vibrant Vietnamese paper lanterns

You can find various types of lanterns in the Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, the Old Quarter in Hanoi, or the Old Town Hoi An which is particularly renowned for its lanterns.

The prices can vary depending on their size, design, and the location where you purchase them. Usually, smaller lanterns suitable for handheld use can range from a few dollars to around $10. Larger and more intricately designed lanterns can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 or more, depending on their complexity and craftsmanship.

• Look for lanterns made with sturdy bamboo frames and durable, high-quality paper. This ensures they will last longer and retain their beauty.

Paper lanterns come in various designs, patterns, sizes, and colors. Consider vibrant hues like red, yellow, and green, which are often associated with luck and prosperity.

Pottery and Ceramics

Vietnamese pottery and ceramics can be found in various forms, including vases, bowls, plates, figurines, and decorative items. They are highly regarded for their exquisite designs, intricate patterns, and diverse range of styles. 

Pottery products of Bat Trang Ceramic Village

Chinese and Cham cultures greatly influenced Vietnamese ceramics, but they developed their own unique characteristics over time. Traditional techniques were passed down through generations, and today, both traditional and contemporary styles of pottery and ceramics are produced in Vietnam.

You can visit the craft villages to choose the best ceramic products: Bat Trang Ceramic Village and Phu Lang Pottery Village in Hanoi, or Chu Dau Ceramic Village in Hai Duong.

Hoi An is also famous for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. You can explore numerous art galleries, boutiques, and workshops that offer a diverse range of pottery and ceramic products. 

Small Decorative Items: Like figurines, small bowls, or decorative pieces can range from a few dollars to around $20 or $30, depending on the intricacy of the design and the quality of workmanship.

Medium-Sized Vases and Bowls: These products with more elaborate designs and higher-quality craftsmanship can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 or more.

Large or Specialty Pieces: Large vases, intricate sculptures, or specialty pieces, can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on their size, complexity, and the reputation of the artist or workshop.

Look for pottery and ceramics that are handmade by local artisans. These pieces often have unique characteristics and exhibit the cultural heritage of Vietnam.

• Seek recommendations from locals or reputable guides who can direct you to reliable shops, artisans, or villages known for their pottery and ceramics.

Pay attention to the craftsmanship, glazing, and finishing quality. Examine the piece closely for any cracks, chips, or imperfections.

If you plan to buy larger or fragile items, inquire about appropriate packaging and shipping services to ensure your purchase arrives safely at your destination.

Propaganda Posters

Vietnamese propaganda posters typically feature bold, vibrant designs with powerful imagery and slogans. They were used as a means of communication and propaganda by the government to convey political messages, promote unity, and inspire patriotism among the Vietnamese people. These posters often depicted heroic figures, soldiers, workers, and peasants, along with symbols of the Communist Party and slogans advocating for revolution and national liberation.

Street markets, such as the Old Quarter in Hanoi or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, often have vendors selling various types of souvenirs, including propaganda posters. These markets offer a wide range of options and bargaining opportunities.

Antique shops and galleries in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City may have vintage propaganda posters available for sale. 

Some museums and art galleries in Vietnam, particularly those focused on history and art, may have exhibitions or dedicated sections where you can view and purchase replicas or prints of propaganda posters.

• Prices can range from a few dollars for low-quality reproductions to several hundred dollars or more for well-preserved originals or rare pieces.
• The prices of Vietnamese propaganda posters can vary depending on factors such as authenticity, rarity, condition, and the seller’s location. Vintage and original posters are generally more expensive compared to reproductions or prints.

If you’re seeking authentic posters, buying from reputable sources, such as established galleries or trusted antique dealers is essential.

Examine the poster for any damage, such as tears, stains, or discoloration, and assess its overall preservation before making a purchase.

If you plan to transport the poster or display it, inquire about suitable packaging or framing options. Rolled posters are easier to transport, while framed ones are ready for display but may require extra care during transit.

Bamboo Root Carvings

Renowned for their intricate details and natural beauty, the bamboo root carvings are the distinctive Vietnam souvenir. The craftsmen utilize the natural shape and texture of bamboo roots to create stunning sculptures that often depict various subjects such as animals, landscapes, and mythological figures. The carvings showcase the mastery of the artists in bringing out the hidden beauty of the bamboo material.

Unique faces of bamboo root carvings

Dong Xuan Market and Night Market in Hanoi, or Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market in Ho Chi Minh City.

You can also find bamboo root carvings in local shops and art galleries scattered throughout the big city.

• Small and simple carvings could range from $10 to $50. Larger and more intricate pieces, or those crafted by renowned artists, can fetch prices ranging from $100 to several hundred dollars.

Ensure that the carving is made from genuine bamboo roots. Some mass-produced imitations may use other materials, such as wood, to mimic the appearance of bamboo roots.

Bamboo root carvings are susceptible to damage from pests and humidity. If you plan to bring the carving home, inquire about preservation methods or instructions to ensure its longevity.

Vietnam Calligraphy

Calligraphy, or “thư pháp” in Vietnamese, is the art of writing beautifully using brush and ink. Vietnam calligraphy is characterized by its elegant strokes, intricate designs, and the use of Chinese characters and Vietnamese ideograms. It is deeply rooted in Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, and often features famous quotes, proverbs, or verses from classical literature and philosophical teachings.

The calligraphic art form is highly regarded and practiced by talented artisans and scholars who have mastered the techniques and principles of this ancient craft.

Vietnamese calligraphy has evolved into the art of beautifying each character

Temples and Pagodas: Many temples and pagodas in Vietnam have calligraphers who create custom pieces or display their artwork. Visitors can witness the artists in action and even request personalized calligraphy.

Traditional Art Villages: Places like Hanoi’s Van Phuc Silk Village or Hue’s Phuoc Tich Village are known for their calligraphic works.

Artisan Markets: Local markets, such as Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, often have stalls or sections dedicated to traditional arts and crafts, including calligraphy.

• Small or standard-sized calligraphy pieces may range from a few dollars to around $50. Larger or more intricate works can be significantly more expensive, potentially reaching a few hundred dollars or more.
• Calligraphy is traditionally done using ink and brush on rice paper. Ensure that the materials used are of good quality, as this affects the longevity and appearance of the artwork.

If you wish to have a personalized calligraphy piece, communicate your requirements clearly to the calligrapher. Specify the characters, quotes, or verses you want, and ensure they understand your preferences.

Vietnam Musical Instruments

Vietnam is renowned for its rich musical heritage, and Vietnamese musical instruments are popular souvenirs for visitors to the country. These instruments reflect the cultural traditions of Vietnam and showcase local artisans’ craftsmanship and artistry. 

Some Notable Musical Instruments

Dan Tranh (16-string zither): The Dan Tranh is a traditional plucked zither with 16 strings. It has a trapezoidal wooden body and is played using finger picks. It produces a soothing and melodic sound often associated with traditional Vietnamese music. Prices for a good quality Dan Tranh can range from $100 to $500.

Dan Bau (monochord zither): The Dan Bau is a unique Vietnamese instrument consisting of a single string stretched over a resonating gourd. It is played by plucking the string while simultaneously manipulating a bamboo rod to change the pitch. Dan Bau has a distinctive, haunting sound and is often used in Vietnamese folk music. Prices for a đàn bầu can range from $50 to $150.

Dan Nguyet (two-string moon lute): This instrument is a two-stringed lute shaped like a crescent moon. It has a long neck and a round soundbox. The instrument is played by plucking the strings with a wooden pick. Dan Nguyet produces a mellow and melancholic sound and is commonly used in Vietnamese classical music. It might cost from $50 to $200 to have a Dan Nguyet .

Dan Nguyet and Dan Tranh

Popular markets, like the Old Quarter Night Market in Hanoi and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City.

Additionally, specialized music stores and craft villages, such as Bat Trang Ceramic Village near Hanoi, may offer a wider selection of instruments.

• Test the instrument’s sound before purchasing, if possible. Ensure that it produces a clear and pleasing tone.

Inspect the instrument for any structural flaws or damage. Pay attention to the quality of wood, strings, and other components.

Consider the size and weight of the instrument, especially if you plan to take it back as a souvenir. Some instruments, like Dan Tranh or Dan Bau , can be quite large and may require special arrangements for transportation.

9 Editable Famous Things In Vietnam To Buy

Vietnamese coffee.

Coffee is a distinctive specialty in Vietnam with robust flavor and unique brewing methods. Traditional Vietnamese coffee is made using a small metal drip filter called a “phin.” It typically consists of dark roasted coffee beans, often blended with a small amount of chicory, which gives it a distinct taste. The coffee is usually prepared with condensed milk, creating a sweet and creamy beverage. However, you can also find black coffee or variations with different levels of sweetness.

Filter coffee brewing is the most popular way

Vietnamese coffee is widely available throughout Vietnam. You can find it in local coffee shops, street stalls, and even in upscale cafes.

In major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, you’ll come across numerous coffee shops offering a variety of Vietnamese coffee options.

Additionally, you can purchase packaged coffee beans or ground coffee to take home as a souvenir. These are available at local markets, supermarkets, and specialized coffee shops.

• On average, a pack of ground coffee or whole beans can range from $5 to $15, depending on the quantity and quality. In local coffee shops, a cup of brewed coffee typically costs between $1 and $3, while specialty coffee drinks or iced coffee variations might be slightly higher in price.

Look for reputable brands or coffee produced by local coffee farms. Check the packaging for any certifications or indications of quality.

Vietnamese coffee is often available in different roast levels, from medium to dark roast. Each roast level offers a distinctive flavor profile, so choose according to your preference.

Decide whether you prefer pre-ground coffee or whole beans. Whole beans offer greater freshness and control over the grind size if you have a coffee grinder.

Ensure the packaging is airtight and properly sealed to preserve the coffee’s freshness and aroma.

>> Read More: Best 5 Vietnam Destinations For Coffee Lovers

Coconut Candy

Vietnam coconut candy, also known as Keo Dua in Vietnamese, is typically produced in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam, where coconuts are abundant. The process of making coconut candy involves extracting milk from coconuts, mixing it with sugar, and cooking it over low heat until it thickens. The mixture is then poured into molds, cooled, and cut into small rectangular or bite-sized pieces.

Local markets, souvenir shops, and supermarkets in popular tourist destinations provide many types of coconut candy. In the Mekong Delta, you may also have the opportunity to visit coconut candy workshops where you can witness the production process firsthand.

Its price can vary depending on the brand, packaging, and location. On average, a small pack of coconut candy weighing around 200 grams can range from approximately $2 to $6. Larger packs or gift boxes may cost more.

>> See Tour: The Best of Mekong Delta Tour

• Check that the candy is well-packaged and sealed to ensure freshness and prevent moisture from getting in. Vacuum-sealed packaging is preferable as it helps to preserve the candy’s flavor and texture.

Read the ingredient list to ensure that the candy is made from natural ingredients without additives or preservatives. The best coconut candy typically has a short list of ingredients, primarily consisting of coconut milk and sugar.

Take note of the shelf life indicated on the packaging. Coconut candy is generally durable and has a reasonably long shelf life, but it’s still important to check the expiration date to ensure freshness.

Mung Bean Cake

A specialty that originates from the northern part of Vietnam, particularly Hanoi, mung bean cake, also known as Banh Dau Xanh, has a soft and slightly chewy texture with a subtle, natural sweetness. The cake is typically shaped into small squares or rectangular blocks and has a vibrant green color due to the mung beans used in its preparation. Mung bean cake is often enjoyed as a dessert or a snack, and it is particularly popular during festive occasions.

Enjoy the Mung Bean Cake with some tea

Local markets, specialty food stores, and souvenir shops.

In Hanoi, you can explore popular spots such as Dong Xuan Market, Hang Gai Street, or the Old Quarter, where you’ll find numerous vendors selling these cakes. You can find them in traditional markets or specialty stores in other major cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Da Nang.

• Generally, they are quite affordable, and a box of mung bean cakes typically ranges from a few dollars up to around $10 to $15, depending on the size and packaging.

Look for cakes that are freshly made to ensure optimal taste and quality. Avoid products that have been sitting on the shelves for an extended period.

Check the packaging for proper sealing to ensure the cakes stay fresh and maintain their flavor during transportation.

Some mung bean cakes may contain additional ingredients like coconut, pandan leaves, or sesame seeds for added flavor. If you have any specific dietary restrictions or preferences, it’s essential to check the ingredients list.

Dried Candied Fruits

Vietnamese-style candied fruits, also known as Mut , are a popular traditional treat made by preserving fruits in sugar syrup, creating a sweet and flavorful snack. Various fruits can be used including coconut, ginger, pineapple, lotus seeds, tamarind, kumquats, and more. Candied fruits are commonly enjoyed during special occasions and festivals in Vietnam, such as the Lunar New Year . It is also a popular gift and souvenir option for visitors to bring back home.

Vietnamese sweer treat for Tet Holiday

• You can find Vietnamese-style candied fruits in local markets, specialty food stores, and souvenir shops throughout Vietnam. They are often sold in small packages or decorative boxes, making them a popular gift or souvenir choice for visitors.
• Prices can vary depending on the type of fruit, quality, and packaging. It’s a good idea to compare prices and quality from different vendors before making a purchase.

Look for candied fruits that are plump, well-preserved, and have a vibrant color. Avoid fruits that appear overly dry, discolored, or have a stale smell.

Check the ingredient list to ensure that no artificial flavorings or preservatives have been added if you prefer a more natural product.

Pay attention to the packaging to ensure that it is intact and properly sealed. This helps maintain the freshness and quality of the candied fruits.

Vietnamese Tea 

Vietnamese tea is a popular and cherished souvenir for visitors to Vietnam. The country’s diverse climate and topography contribute to the cultivation of various tea types, each with its own characteristics. Some of the well-known types of Vietnamese tea include green tea, black tea, oolong tea, lotus tea, and jasmine tea. These teas are known for their refreshing aroma, smooth taste, and health benefits.

Enjoy the typical flavor of Vietnamese tea with side dishes

Tea shops: Tea specialty stores and shops in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hoi An offer a wide selection of Vietnamese teas. 

Local markets: Visiting local markets, such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, provides an opportunity to discover authentic Vietnamese tea. Vendors often sell loose tea leaves and packaged tea in these bustling markets.

Tea plantations: If you’re interested in witnessing the tea-making process firsthand, you can visit tea plantations in regions like Thai Nguyen, Bao Loc, or Moc Chau. These areas offer beautiful landscapes and the chance to learn about the tea production process.

• Because of the popularity and quality of the brand, the pricing could differ. The average price per 100 grams might range from $2 to $11.

Look for reputable sellers or tea brands to ensure you’re buying genuine Vietnamese tea. Check for labels, certifications, or indications of the tea’s origin.

Vietnamese tea comes in various types, so consider the flavor profile you prefer. For example, green tea provides a light and grassy taste, while black tea offers a stronger and richer flavor.

Pay attention to the tea packaging. Sealed and airtight packaging helps maintain freshness and preserve the tea’s quality.

Green Sticky Rice

Green Sticky Rice, also known as Com , is a seasonal specialty typically available during the autumn months in Vietnam, particularly in the northern regions where rice fields are abundant. It is made from glutinous rice harvested when the grains are still young and green before they fully mature. The rice is then roasted and pounded to remove the husks, resulting in small, fragrant green grains.

Com – the long-standing cultural cuisine in Hanoi 

• Com is most commonly found in Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, as well as in the surrounding regions where rice cultivation is prevalent. It is often sold in local markets, specialty food stores, and souvenir shops.
• Its price ranges from approximately $5 to $10 for 100 grams.

Look for Com that is freshly prepared, as it is best enjoyed when it is still moist and retains its vibrant green color.

Com is typically packaged in small, individual portions or in decorative boxes. Choose packaging that is well-sealed to ensure freshness and prevent moisture from entering.

Opt for Com , which has a distinct aroma and a slightly chewy texture. High-quality cốm should have a natural sweetness and a delicate flavor.

>> Read More: Local Guide – 20 Famous Food In Hanoi That Every Visitor Should Try

Vietnamese Herbs and Spices

Vietnamese cuisine relies heavily on the use of herbs and spices to create its distinctive flavors. The combination of aromatic herbs, such as lemongrass, Thai basil, mint, cilantro, and Vietnamese coriander, along with spices like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger, contribute to the unique taste profile of Vietnamese dishes.

Vibrant local markets, such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, offer a wide range of herbs and spices.

Some regions in Vietnam, such as the Mekong Delta, are known for herb farms where you can find a diverse range of fresh herbs and spices. These farms often offer guided tours, allowing visitors to learn about the cultivation and harvesting processes.

Generally, fresh herbs are more affordable than dried spices. It might cost from $0.50 to $2 per bunch for fresh herbs and from $2 to $4 for dried herbs.

Look for vibrant, fresh herbs with no signs of wilting or discoloration. The aroma should be strong and fragrant. For dried spices, ensure they are properly sealed to retain their flavor.

It’s advisable to buy from reputable sellers or trusted brands to ensure you are getting genuine Vietnamese herbs and spices.

Check the packaging for cleanliness and proper labeling. Ensure the products are well-sealed and stored in suitable containers to maintain their quality.

Vietnam Fish Sauce

Fish sauce has a long history in Vietnamese cuisine, dating back thousands of years. The process of fish and salt fermentation can take several months or even years, resulting in a dark amber liquid with a pungent aroma and rich, savory taste.

You are free to add other ingredients to the fish sauce

• You can find it in any local markets, supermarkets, and specialty food stores.
• It is also exported to many countries around the world, so you may be able to find it in Asian grocery stores or online retailers.
• In Vietnam, you can find small bottles of fish sauce starting from a few dollars, while larger or premium bottles may cost upwards of $10.
• Check the label to ensure that the fish sauce is made from real fish and salt without any additional artificial flavors or enhancers.
• Different brands of fish sauce may have slightly different flavors, so it’s a good idea to try a few to find the one that suits your taste preferences.
• Some popular and reputable fish sauce brands in Vietnam include Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet, and Nha Trang. These brands are known for producing high-quality fish sauce.

>> Read More: Top 8 Vietnam Beaches That Definitely Should Be On Your List

Vietnam Rice Wine

Vietnam Rice Wine has a long history and is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture. It is often consumed during special occasions, such as weddings, festivals, and family gatherings. The production process involves fermenting cooked glutinous rice with yeast over a period of time and then distilling the resulting mixture to obtain the final product.

Vietnam Rice Wine can be found throughout the country, particularly in rural areas and local markets.

It is commonly produced by households or small-scale distilleries, known as “ruou gia truyen,” which are often located in villages.

Low-End/Local Brands: For locally produced rice wine, you can find small bottles (around 350ml) priced at approximately $0.86 to $2.16.

Mid-range: Mid-range rice wine from established brands or larger distilleries may cost between $2.16 and $6.47 for a 500ml bottle.

Premium and Aged Rice Wine: Premium rice wines or those that have been aged for a longer period can be more expensive. Prices for premium rice wine can range from $8.63 to $21.58, or even higher for special editions or limited releases.

It’s advisable to buy rice wine from reputable sources to ensure quality and authenticity. Look for well-known brands or trusted producers.

Check the packaging and labeling for information such as the alcohol content, ingredients, and production date. Legitimate products often have clear and informative labels.

Rice wine can vary in taste and aroma depending on the production methods and ingredients used. Some may be sweeter, while others have a stronger alcoholic flavor. Consider your personal preferences when choosing a bottle.

>> See Tour: A Food Lover’s Tour of Vietnam

Let’s Explore Vietnam With Asia Pioneer Travel

An enchanting array of unique Vietnam souvenirs is not only captivating but also reflects the vibrant culture and rich heritage of this beautiful country. As exploring the bustling markets and charming streets, every tourist will discover a treasure trove of items that make for perfect mementos and gifts. 

So Start Your Vietnam Journey , from tailored itineraries to experienced guides, with Asia Pioneer Travel, and let the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam souvenirs be a lasting reminder of this country’s incredible spirit. 

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15 best Vietnam souvenirs you can buy

• Travel tips

Would you like to bring a souvenir from Vietnam for your family, friends or for yourself as a reminder of your Vietnam tour? Then it can be difficult to determine what is nice as a gift and at the same time something typically Vietnamese. So check out this list of the top 10 best souvenirs from Vietnam and tips on what to buy to make sure you bring something nice back.

Tip : Before you buy anything, make sure to check what goods you can import back to your home country. Some stuff that is legal in Vietnam, might not be legal in your country.

1. Colonial hat

Perhaps the most iconic item from Vietnam, the colonial hat or also called the Vietnamese hat. Buying this hat may not be the most original, but it is the most practical souvenir from Vietnam for travelling, especially during Vietnam’s torrential rains and scorching summers. Also known as non la, these hats have been around since the 18th century and are mostly hand woven using bamboo, palm fronds and the bark of Moc trees.

Price : Depending on the quality, colonial hats are sold at souvenir shops for between VND 30,000 and VND 100,000 and in local markets for less than VND 10,000.

Coffee in Vietnam is huge! It is the second biggest exporter of coffee in the world and the largest producer of Robusta coffee. Vietnamese coffee beans can be found almost everywhere, from major shopping centers and international airports to small cafes and local markets. The central highlands is the epicenter where the coffee comes from. Around Buon Ma Thuot, Dalat and Pleiku you will find endless coffee plantations, because this is the ideal climate. The largest and most popular coffee brand in Vietnam is Trung Nguyen, with locations in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Hoi An.

Tip : Also buy a Vietnamese coffee filter

Tea in Vietnam may not even come close to coffee exports, but it is extremely popular to drink in this country. There is a real tea culture in Vietnam. When you visit someone, there is always a teapot ready with which your glass is immediately refilled every time it is empty.

Vietnamese like to mix their tea with flowers to make the taste more aromatic, like lotus tea. This is from the time when this type of tea was only for the kings. In addition, in Vietnam you will also find beautiful tea plantations in central Vietnam and in the north of the country.

4. Tailor-made clothing

Hoi An is arguably the capital of the world when it comes to tailor-made clothing. So what is a nicer souvenir for yourself then clothing that is completely personalized with your wishes and fits perfectly. You can have dresses, coats, shoes, suits and much more custom made. Read all about tailoring in Hoi An here.

5. Ethnic minority products

Products from ethnic minorities can not only be a wonderful souvenir from Vietnam, but you also directly support the local population. There are over 50 different ethnic groups in Vietnam here with their own distinctive culture, which is reflected in their clothing styles and equipment. For that reason, the product of ethnic minorities often comes with their own different patterns, colors and designs.

Many of these ethnic groups are specialized in certain techniques, such as weaving and gold working. They make clothing, bags, bracelets, brocades, jewelry, among other things. Many of these items can be found at local mountain markets in Vietnam, where you can also hunt for souvenirs as a tourist.

Where do you buy items from ethnic minorities?

6. Hand fans

Hand fans are made of sturdy bamboo and paper or silk. They can be used for cooling or decoratively in the home. The dimensions of the hand fans are diverse, it can be hand-sized or a lot bigger. They are usually decorated with drawing of Vietnam. These hand fans have played a big role in the country’s rich culture and can be seen in traditional Vietnamese dance today.

Widely regarded as the national garment for women in Vietnam, Ao Dai consists of a long, tight dress worn over trousers in contrasting colors. While ready-made ao dai can be found in tourist markets and fashion boutiques, some travelers may require the service of a local tailor to have an Ao Dai made according to their body type.

8. Hand Embroidered Stuff

The art of hand-embroidered garments and items is an old handicraft tradition in Vietnam. You will especially encounter scenic nature scenes, such as flowers, trees, animals and birds. In some stores you can even exchange or sketch your ideas with an artist, who will make a personalized gift for friends and family. You have clothing, scarves, small bags, make-up bags, pillowcases, tablecloths and handkerchiefs.

Where do you buy hand embroidered stuff?

In Hanoi: In the Old Quarter district In HCMC: SH Vietnam, XQ Hand Embroidery

9. Bamboo and wooden items

Bamboo and wood products in Vietnam are all handmade and available in a wide variety of colors. You have salad bowls, trays, baskets, a bamboo bubble or handmade musical instruments such as bamboo flutes. Aside from being cheaper alternatives, they are also environmentally friendly in nature.

10. Propaganda Posters

Propaganda posters were used by Ho Chi Minh and the North Vietnamese government in attempts to rally the troops and raise the spirits of the local population. Often painted on walls, trees and large vehicles during the Vietnam War, these works of art feature colorful images and bold slogans. You can easily find propaganda poster reproductions in various art galleries along Hang Bac Street in Hanoi, between VND 500,000 and VND 800,000.

11. Snake wine

Snake wine (or snake liqueur) is a bottle of medicinal rice wine with a dead cobra, scorpion or lizard. Opinions differ on this product regarding animal cruelty and that is perfectly understandable. However, it is still an aspect of Vietnamese culture as Vietnam is a developing country with superstitions here and there. According to wisdom, this drink increases masculinity. It seems bizarre to drink, but it is guaranteed to be a unique souvenir from Vietnam. Make sure you cover and protect it well so it doesn’t leak from your suitcase.

Where can you buy snake wine / snake liqueur in Vietnam?

• In Hanoi: On Trieu Viet Vuong or Mai Hac De or Pho Hue street
• In HCMC: Ben Thanh Market

12. Cooking skills

Why does a souvenir always have to be something physical? Perhaps one of the best souvenirs in Vietnam is the art of cooking Vietnamese food . There are hundreds of different dishes in Vietnam and it is what the Vietnamese are most proud of in their culture. There are several places where you can take a cooking class in Vietnam . During this cooking introduction you will learn to make a number of dishes and you will get to know a number of commonly used ingredients from the Vietnamese kitchen. How wonderful it is when you get home that you can cook Vietnamese for your friends and family!

13. Vietnamese lanterns

Vietnamese lanterns are originally due to the trade and colonial past with China. The lantern is used for luck and love. Vietnamese believe that lighting lanterns and floating lanterns on the river can bring health and good luck. The most famous place to see and buy lanterns is Hoi An.

14. Pearl jewelry

When you take a cruise through Halong Bay , there is a good chance that you will see floating villages. These villages are used for farming marine animals such as shrimp, fish, but also pearls. These pearls are then used to make jewelry, such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings, rings and pendants. Popular places where this is sold include Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang.

15. Vietnamese cash money

Do you have any money left at the end of your trip through Vietnam? Why would you exchange all the money? Money is a nice reminder and souvenir from Vietnam and easy to bring with you if you have already a lot of luggage. In addition, many Vietnamese banknotes are worth very little, such as 5000 (0.2 USD), 10000 (0.45 USD), 20000 (1 USD) and 50000 (2 USD) and are small to keep

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13 Best Vietnamese Souvenirs to Buy to Remember Your Trip

Want to know which Vietnamese souvenirs to look out for? Here are the best souvenirs in Vietnam to bring home for yourself and your loved ones.

Steeped in tradition and rolling out stunning landscapes, Vietnam is a deep cultural pool. Everything catches the eye, whether it’s the aromatic coffee delivered in lacquered mugs or the lazy wind of a bamboo boat. While I love taking photos of every country I visit, I will admit that sometimes – photos aren’t enough.

To keep pieces of your journey with you, buy some meaningful Vietnam souvenirs! 

Wondering what to buy in Vietnam? I’ve put together a list of the best souvenirs from Vietnam and where you can find them. They’re not frivolous purchases either; many of these items combine aesthetics and functionality, worth every single cent!

Best souvenirs from Vietnam

Here are the best Vietnamese souvenirs to look out for from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City – best save up your pennies now!

• 1. Buy some silk products

Crafted from traditional handlooms, silk items have long been a staple souvenir from Vietnam. Apart from daily wearables like silk scarves for both women and men, Vietnamese silk has also been employed in various art forms. 

Silk paintings for instance, often depict mystical and poetic themes. The art originated from painting on homemade rice paper and transitioned to this valuable material; French influence in 19 th and 20 th century later encouraged liberal use of colour. Forget artificial colouring – the vibrant landscapes are made with natural silk colours!

This art can be featured on traditional long dresses too. 

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: I highly recommend visiting Hanoi’s silk village, Van Phuc. An Silk Village is another amazing source of great souvenirs from Vietnam.

• 2. Áo dài – traditional Vietnamese dress

One of the most meaningful Vietnamese souvenirs to buy is the national dress – ào dài. Stretching from stand collar to ankle, the fitted dress is worn by both men and women on special occasions. Side seams split to the waist to reveal pants underneath – it looks good and is easy to move in!

Believed to be inspired by the royal Chinese Qing Dynasty costume, the top and bottom parts usually come in contrasting colour.

If you go to any festivals in Vietnam you’ll see some beautiful ào dài around.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Hang Da Market has plenty of premade pieces for you to try, but I suggest purchasing materials and getting one tailor-made. Cho Hom Market, Hang Gai Street (Hanoi), An Dong Market and Tan Dinh Market (HCM) sells beautiful fabrics. A tailored dress would cost between 700,000 and 1,400,000 VND.

• 3. Nón lá hats – the famous Vietnam hat

You’ve most likely seen these iconic hats via travel blogs, postcards and maybe even your mate’s Instagram.

Also known as the leaf hat, these conical hats are an undisputed traditional symbol of Vietnam. Legend says that a goddess first crafted a giant hat large enough to guard against torrential rains that had flooded the lands; having learnt how to farm from this deity, they honour her by crafting these indispensable items. Now, they’re a daily essential for rice paddy farmers, paddle-boat rowers, and those who travel far and wide.

One of the most popular (and practical) souvenirs from Vietnam, they’re great props for photos and a welcome spot of shade. Made from simple materials such as bamboo, palm leaves and Moc tree bark, Chuong Village and Hue feature a special variation with poetic verses under the leafy layers.

If you don’t want to buy a hat for your Vietnamese souvenir, then how about one of these symbolic mobile decorations pictured above. Vietnam is known for these hats!

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: You’ll find them at Binh Thanh Market, Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market.

4. Strap on some Guoc Moc s

Imbued in these wooden clogs are the clopping steps of history; the guoc moc have been around for thousands of years. Traditionally, the upper class made their clogs out of agar or pine wood while the working class used cheaper sapele and bamboo roots. Sling a thick strap on the front and you have the last accessory needed to complete the traditional outfit for your Vietnamese souvenir.

While the traditional wooden sandals have graduated from simple, solemn wear to more fashionable designs with gloss paint and decorations, this footwear remains an intrinsic part of Vietnamese history.

These Vietnamese souvenirs are a great choice to add to your sandals collection!

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: You can buy them at market places for 40,000 VND – maybe even find them at old craft villages in the provinces of Ha Tay, Thanh Xuan and Bac Ninh. 

READ MORE: The Best Souvenirs from the Philippines

• 5. Pick up some lacquerware

Emerging in the 1930s, lacquerware was a Hanoi College of Fine Art endeavour that soon spread across the country. I love browsing stores for unique pieces of handicrafts – Vietnamese lacquerware really demands attention whether bowls, vases, paintings or jewellery boxes.

Lacquerware furniture might be hard to buy and ship, but definitely purchase smaller pieces as one of your Vietnamese souvenirs. The intensive, intricate 20-step process seals layers and layers of engravings, gold leaf embossing, pearl inlays and more. 

If you’re looking at shopping Vietnam, then you can pick up some really beautiful pieces to bring home.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: This Vietnam souvenir is found everywhere but for high-quality pieces, why not browse a gallery-and-shop combo? Some famous stops include Hanoi’s Hang Bac Street, An Dong Craft Market, Thu Huong Lacquer Art, Vietnam Fine Arts Museum and Lacquer Art Tay Ho. 

• 6. Buy some Vietnamese lanterns

Bring colour into your house with Vietnam’s colourful lanterns. A symbol of happiness and good luck, these pretty souvenirs come in paper and silk patterns. Hand-painted designs mean each one is unique.

Buy ones that can fold for easy transport as your Vietnamese souvenir. Wherever you go on on your trip to Vietnam you’ll see these everywhere!

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Definitely drop by Hoi An’s Old Quarter! The street stalls are brimming with great buys. Depending on size and quality, lanterns are priced from 50,000 VND to 400,000 VND. Definitely some of the best souvenirs from Vietnam money can buy!

• 7. Buy a few bamboo products

Bamboo is a significant material in Vietnam’s daily living – from their conical hats to paddle-boats and other work essentials. It only makes sense that bamboo products make wonderful souvenirs from Vietnam.

Better still, they’re eco-friendly and sustainable.

There are plenty of handwoven items such as hats, bowls, baskets and décor.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Check out Mekong Creations and Cua Hang Bamboo Village for the full range.

• 8. Pick out some ceramics

Ceramics are some of the best things to buy in Vietnam.

It’s not easy tracing back the history of traditional handcrafted ceramics (it’s been around for so long), but you will catch Chinese, Indian and Cambodian influences in the works. Coming in all shapes, sizes and colours, they make wonderful and long-lasting gifts.

Watch in awe as masters craft new pieces in front of you.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Visit Bat Trang Pottery Village and Phu Land Pottery Village for some unique wares.

• 9. Pick up a fruit outfit

Speaking of eye-catching and kitsch souvenirs and Vietnam shopping, why not buy a Vietnamese fruit outfit?

Bold colours, funky fruit motifs and free-for-all sizing are the pinnacle of Vietnamese market fashion. They’re like a backpacker’s collector’s item, keeping you perfectly cool and comfortable under sweltering days while reminding you of those fun days on the road.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Hanoi Night Market and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh have great selections, but you’ll see these in every local market. Grab a shirt for 50,000 to 80,000 VND.

10. C offee beans for your Vietnamese souvenir

Did you know that our sense of smell is closely tied to memory?

Local coffee beans are among the best things to buy in Vietnam – brew a cup every morning to recall the meandering heat and laid-back vibe of the country. Vietnamese coffee is renowned for their tin coffee filter brews, often flavoured with condensed milk or served with egg. 

Make sure to give the goods a try before buying the pack!

Vietnamese coffee beans are a great travel souvenir to take home for the perfect gifts.

Where to pick up these top Vietnamese souvenirs: You’ll find coffee beans sold everywhere , from local markets to coffee shops to specialty stores. I highly recommend the Robusta or Arabica blends; beans from the Central Highlands guarantee quality. Popular brands include Vinacafe, Highland coffee and Trung Nguyen Coffee.

• 11. Chew on some Vietnamese candy

While you’re on your foodie tour, make sure to taste local culture by crunching sweet treats under your teeth. Easy to pack away, cheap and dubiously healthy, confectionery are tasty things to buy in Vietnam. Coconut candy is a must, but grab some rice cakes and nut-studded chocolates too. The handmade banana candies from Mekong delta is another classic!

The food in Vietnam is just incredible, and the candy is just another part of it you need to try.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Ben Thanh Market and Cholon Old Chinatown hold plenty of these traditional treats, although you’ll find them in local stores and markets in every city. 

• 12. Buy your tire flip flops

A war-time invention, Vietnamese soldiers had fashioned flip flops out of car-tire materials with an ingenious design! In order to hide the direction of their footprints, the footwear was made in a symmetrical shape – you can sneak through mud and wet terrain safe from enemy trackers.

This budget buy has quite the smarts behind its simple look. A standard pair costs around 150,000 VND when you’re Vietnam shopping.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: Easily found in street markets and random kiosks. 

• 13. Propaganda posters

An unusual Vietnam souvenir is propaganda posters. Used during wartime to gain civilian support, these war memorabilia are quite fascinating for history buffs. You’ll learn about the ideology of the time and the kind of patriotic slogans being slung around – the drawings are pretty striking to look at too.

Original pieces were drawn on rice paper but you’ll find some on canvas too.

Where to pick up these top Vietnam souvenirs: I found a great source in Hanoi; the Hanoi Gallery Old Propaganda Posters and Old Propaganda Posters Shop . You can also find a variety at Le Duan Street in Ho Chi Minh. 

• 14. Chopsticks from Vietnam

In Vietnamese culture they use chopsticks to eat, just like a third of the world. If you’re wondering what to buy from Vietnam, then some souvenir chopsticks could be a great idea. You’ll find them in most souvenir shops.

I’d recommend paying a bit extra for luxury ones. I love to bring mine out when friends are over!

15. Hand fans from Vietnam

Hand fans are traditional Vietnamese souvenirs, and are pretty useful too. I visited in August once and it was SO HOT! A traditional hand fan was the only way we could cool down at the sticky hot wedding I was at.

Hand fans also work as great Vietnam souvenirs to remember your trip by, as whenever you bring them out you’ll be reminded of the joy of the sun on your skin. Hand fans can be a fun thing to buy in Vietnam for kids too – all round winner!

Best souvenirs in Vietnam

In the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture , each souvenir – from delicate lacquerware and intricate embroidery to aromatic spices and traditional ao dai dresses – serves as a tangible memento of an unforgettable journey.

These keepsakes not only encapsulate the country’s diverse artistry and heritage but also provide invaluable support to local artisans. So, as you navigate through bustling markets or tranquil artisan villages, remember that each purchase is more than just an item; it’s a slice of Vietnam you can take home. In the end, souvenirs are more than just keepsakes; they are forever memories, captured in material form.

Other popular Vietnamese souvenirs include hand fans, embroidery and even musical instruments. I highly recommend walking through local street markets and letting your eyes do the exploring for your Vietnamese gifts! 

18 of the Best Souvenirs from New Orleans

What is popular to buy in Vietnam?

First stop, silk! Whether it’s a swanky scarf or a full-on traditional Ao Dai, you’ll look like runway-ready royalty. Next, get your caffeine fix with Vietnam’s robusta coffee—so strong it’ll make your espresso back home blush. For home décor divas, lacquerware is the word. These colorful pieces scream, “Look at me, I’m cultured and stylish!” Don’t forget the iconic conical hat, or ‘Non La,’ perfect for sun protection and Instagram selfies. You can also get dong ho paintings and great wooden products made locally, if you want to add some Vietnamese pizazz to your home. Lastly, spice up your life (literally) with Vietnamese star anise and cinnamon. Happy shopping!

The markets in Vietnam are the best places to pick these gifts from Vietnam up. The Vietnamese people will be only too happy to sell these traditional souvenirs to you – sharing their traditional methods and intricate designs with the world. Vietnam has such a rich culture, there are plenty of great souvenirs to choose from. 

Best things to buy in Vietnam

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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Thank you! Interesting and unexpected souvenirs ideas! Love the mention of tires flip flops & fruit shirts! Will definitely purchase them and other souvenirs 2 weeks later!

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15 Unique Vietnam Souvenirs to Bring Back Home

Posted by Annick Lenoir-Peek | Updated on May 7, 2024 | Published on Mar 13, 2024 | Vietnam | 0

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.

Vietnam, a beautiful country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes, offers a plethora of unique souvenirs for visitors to take home as memories of their travels. From traditional handicrafts to delicious culinary delights, here are the 15 best souvenirs from Vietnam.

Best Vietnam Souvenirs

1. Vietnamese Silk  

Vietnamese silk has a long history dating back thousands of years. Silk weaving is an ancient craft in Vietnam, with regions like Hoi An and Ha Dong famous for their high-quality silk products. The fabric is known for its luxurious texture, vibrant colors, and intricate designs. Visitors can purchase silk scarves, clothing, or exquisite silk paintings as souvenirs, each showcasing the country’s rich textile heritage.

2. Ao Dai (Traditional Vietnamese Dress)  

The Ao Dai is Vietnam’s iconic national costume, characterized by its elegant, figure-hugging long dress design with long sleeves for women and loose-fitting attire for men. Originating in the 18th century, the Ao Dai has evolved but remains a symbol of Vietnamese grace and beauty. 

Visitors can buy ready-to-wear áo dài or opt for tailor-made ones, ensuring a perfect fit and a timeless souvenir of Vietnamese culture.

3. Lacquerware  

Lacquerware is a traditional art form in Vietnam that has existed for over a thousand years. Craftsmen apply layers of resin from the lacquer tree onto wooden or bamboo surfaces, creating items like bowls, trays, and vases. The process involves intricate designs, often featuring Vietnamese mythology or nature scenes. Lacquerware makes for elegant and durable souvenirs, reflecting the country’s artistic prowess.

4. Conical Hat (Non La)  

The iconic nón lá hats, or conical hats, are synonymous with Vietnamese culture and identity. Dating back centuries, these hats are made from palm leaves and bamboo strips and protect from the sun and rain. Non-Las come in various sizes and designs, with some intricately decorated ones reserved for special occasions.Lightweight and foldable, they make for practical yet distinctive souvenirs from Vietnam.

5. Water Puppets  

Water puppetry is a traditional Vietnamese art form that originated in the Red River Delta region around the 11th century. Puppeteers manipulate wooden puppets on water, accompanied by live music and storytelling, creating captivating performances. Visitors can purchase miniature water puppets as souvenirs, beautifully crafted and reminiscent of this unique cultural tradition.

6. Bamboo Products  

Bamboo is a versatile material that holds significant cultural and economic importance in Vietnam. A wide range of products are crafted from it. Bamboo products showcase the country’s sustainable craftsmanship, from kitchenware like chopsticks and bowls to decorative items such as lamps and baskets. 

These eco-friendly souvenirs not only reflect Vietnamese heritage but also promote environmental conservation. 

7. Vietnamese Coffee  

Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, renowned for its robusta beans and unique brewing methods. Coffee culture runs deep in Vietnamese society, with traditional drip coffee (cà phê phin) being a favorite among locals and visitors alike. 

Most of the coffee grows in the central highlands region, which explains why the leading coffee shop chain in Vietnam is Highlands Coffee. Even fans of black coffee should take an opportunity to try a cup of egg coffee. The egg yolk is whisked into sweetened condensed milk. It makes for a delicious treat!

Travelers can bring home packs of freshly roasted Vietnamese coffee beans or coffee blends as delicious souvenirs to savor the flavors of Vietnam long after your trip.

8. Hand-Embroidered Textiles  

Vietnamese embroidery is a centuries-old craft that showcases intricate designs and meticulous handiwork. Skilled artisans often use silk threads to embellish fabrics with elaborate motifs, ranging from floral patterns to mythical creatures. Visitors can purchase hand-embroidered textiles like tablecloths, wall hangings, or purses as exquisite souvenirs, each telling a story of Vietnam’s artistic heritage.

9. Ceramic Pottery  

Vietnamese ceramic pottery boasts a rich tradition dating back thousands of years, with techniques passed down through generations. Vietnamese pottery reflects diverse regional styles and influences, from delicate porcelain to rustic earthenware. 

Visitors can explore local markets and workshops to find beautifully crafted ceramics, ranging from decorative ceramic vases to functional kitchenware, making for timeless souvenirs to adorn their homes.

10. Hand Fans  

Hand fans have been an integral part of Vietnamese culture for centuries, providing relief from the sweltering heat and serving as decorative accessories for special occasions. 

Made from a various materials such as bamboo, silk, and paper, Vietnamese hand fans come in diverse styles and designs, reflecting regional influences and artistic creativity. Intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and delicate craftsmanship characterize these fans, making them functional and aesthetically pleasing souvenirs. 

Visitors can choose from traditional folding fans or intricately painted ones, each bearing the hallmark of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Whether used to cool down on a hot day or displayed as a piece of art, hand fans offer travelers a tangible connection to Vietnam’s enduring traditions and graceful elegance.

11. Rice Paper Products  

Rice paper is a staple ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine, used to make dishes like spring rolls and banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes). However, it’s also transformed into various handicrafts such as lanterns, greeting cards, and artwork. 

Craftsmen skillfully manipulate rice paper to create intricate designs, showcasing the versatility of this humble material. Visitors can purchase rice paper products as unique and lightweight souvenirs to remember their trip to Vietnam, such as journals.

12. Pearl Jewelry 

Vietnam has a long pearl cultivation and jewelry-making history dating back centuries. Pearls have been highly valued in Vietnamese culture, symbolizing purity, elegance, and prosperity.

Over time, Vietnam became one of the leading producers of cultured pearls in the world, known for producing high-quality pearls in a range of colors including white, black, gold, and pink. Vietnamese pearl jewelry gained recognition for its exquisite craftsmanship and unique designs, combining traditional Vietnamese motifs with contemporary styles.

13. Silk Lanterns  

Silk lanterns are an integral part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage, particularly in the ancient town of Hoi An, where they adorn streets and shops, creating a mesmerizing sight of different colors. 

Crafted from silk fabric stretched over bamboo frames, these Vietnamese lanterns come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, adding a touch of elegance to any space. Visitors can purchase silk lanterns as decorative souvenirs, serving as a reminder of Vietnam’s enchanting beauty.

14. Tailored Clothing  

One of Vietnam’s most personalized and memorable souvenirs is tailored clothing. Renowned for its skilled tailors and affordable prices, Vietnam allows visitors to create custom-made garments tailored to their preferences. 

The options are limitless, from elegant suits and dresses to casual shirts and trousers. Hoi An, particularly, is famous for its tailoring services, with numerous shops lining its streets. Visitors can choose fabrics, select styles, and undergo fittings to ensure a perfect fit. Tailored clothing provides a unique souvenir and a lasting reminder of the impeccable craftsmanship and attention to detail that characterize Vietnamese fashion. 

Whether it’s a tailored ao dai for special occasions or a bespoke suit for everyday wear, these custom garments offer travelers a one-of-a-kind memento of their time in Vietnam, tailored to their tastes and preferences.

15. Tiger Balm  

Tiger Balm holds a special place in Vietnamese culture as a remedy for various ailments and aches. Initially created by a Chinese herbalist, this aromatic balm contains natural ingredients like camphor, menthol, and clove oil, known for their soothing and pain-relieving properties. 

Tiger Balm is widely used in Vietnam to relieve headaches, muscle pain, insect bites, and respiratory congestion. Visitors can purchase jars or small tins of Tiger Balm as practical souvenirs to bring home. Its compact size makes it easy to carry in travel bags or purses for relief on the go. 

Beyond its medicinal benefits, Tiger Balm also evokes nostalgic memories of traditional healing practices and serves as a cultural symbol of wellness in Vietnam. Tiger Balm is the essence of Vietnamese herbal remedies, whether used for its therapeutic properties or kept as a souvenir. It offers travelers a tangible connection to the country’s healing traditions.

Best Places to Buy Vietnamese Souvenirs

While you can find these items in Vietnamese souvenir shops, I highly encourage you to buy them at local markets. As you visit different cities in Vietnam, take some time to explore the sights and sounds of local markets. You’ll be able to interact with Vietnamese people as you bargain for your memento. 

Here are my favorite markets in the major cities: While visiting Ho Chi Minh City, stop by the Ben Thanh Market. In Nha Trang, visit the Dam Market. Or explore the stalls at the Halong Bay Market.

Final Thoughts on the Best Vietnam Souvenirs

In conclusion, Vietnam offers a treasure trove of popular souvenirs that reflect its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. From traditional crafts like lacquerware and silk to culinary delights like coffee and rice paper products, each souvenir encapsulates the essence of Vietnam’s vibrant culture and diverse landscapes. 

Whether a beautifully embroidered textile or a meticulously crafted ceramic vase, these souvenirs serve as a memento of your wonderful Vietnam adventure. Happy shopping!

Check out these related posts:

• A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Ho Chi Minh City

Is Nha Trang Worth Visiting?

• Top Things to Do in Halong Bay

Happy travels, Annick, The Common Traveler

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What to Buy in Vietnam: All the Best Vietnamese Souvenirs

The Most Popular Souvenirs from Vietnam - Top Best Things to buy in Vietnam

Vietnam boasts a culturally rich country with a beautiful landscape, interesting and complicated history, and hundred traditional handicraft villages. Traveling to Vietnam witness the busy local markets, chaotic bustling streets, a stretch of souvenir stalls, aroma cafe shops. Visiting market in Vietnam is the best way to immerse yourself in local cultures, dragging through the overwhelming streets will all cars, motorbikes, and chaos. How difficult it can be to pick out all the right items for friends and family back home as well as getting them all back in one piece. You may want to stock your luggage with a full load of souvenirs or just something small and practical, which can be used in daily life like some fridge magnets, a lacquer bowl, or touchable stuff to bring back amazing memories. This guide is giving you 10 most popular souvenirs from Vietnam that worth to bring home for yourself and your loved ones. Useful information, where to buy, what to expect to pay, tips, and what to avoid.

The Most Popular Souvenirs from Vietnam – Top Best Things to buy in Vietnam

Table of Contents

3. Nón Lá (Conical hats)

4. paintings, 5. chopsticks, 6. lacquerware products, 7. postcards and propaganda posters, 8. embroideries, 9. ao dai (vietnam traditional long dress), 10. dried fruit, 10 best things to buy in vietnam.

Vietnam has become the second-largest coffee exporter in the world only after giant Brazil. Set your foot in Vietnam, picking the best coffee bean packs as a souvenir would be the best gift to bring home for friends and family, also boost your day by savoring a cup of hot aroma coffee bean.

How local people enjoy their coffee

Pull up a plastic stool, grab a cup of Ca Phe Sua Da (Iced coffee with condensed milk) could be immersed yourself amongst the multitude of local people. Predominantly coffee in Vietnam is Robusta with more caffeine, offering bitter strong taste. The coffee is brew in a tiny tin filter (PHIN) that dripping into a cup or glass of condensed milk or in cappuccino with eggs creamy, sweet taste.

The best selections of bean coffee are Robusta and Arabica. The finest quality coffee is from Central Highland of the country.

Tips: The tinny tin drip filter would be packed with the beans to reflect Vietnam’s coffee preparation. The Phin is available at any coffee shop, the various rate ranges from $5 – $15/set (without cup/glass).

Where to enjoy a cup of coffee in Hanoi

The coffeeholic would find the best place to enjoy their coffee to start a day. Bear in mind, cafe shops in Vietnam simply serve coffee than food. Here are the popular coffee shops in Hanoi: – Dream Beans Coffee: 22 Tho Xuong Hang Trong, Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 08.00-21.00) – Hidden Gem Coffee: 3B Hang Tre, Hoan Kiem (08.00-23.00), fast food is served too. – Loading T: 8 Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem (08.00-22.00), – Giang Coffee: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hoan Kiem (07.00-22.30), famous for egg coffee .

Where to buy? Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Lat are considered the best places to have quality packs for beans and grounded. The popular local bands: • Trung Nguyen Coffee • Highland Coffee • Vinacafe • Buon Me Thuot coffee

Read more : Hanoi’s best coffee

How much you pay for a pack of beans or ground coffee?

Packed in one kilogram or haft each package, price ranges from $7 – $25 depending on brand or quality. The civet (Weasel, Kopi Luwak) coffee is dramatically more expensive at around $1,600 per kilo. Regardless, you may encounter a fake one.

Where to buy: Hanoi: Café Mai: – 79 & 96 Le Van Huu, Hai Ba Trung, – 52 Nguyen Du, Hai Ba Trung, – 75 Tran Nhan Tong, Hai Ba Trung, Cafe Nhan: 39D Hang Hanh, Hoan Kiem, Duong Cafe: 107C Minh Khai, Hai Ba Trung, Huong Viet Coffee: 22 Xa Dan, Dong Da,

Ho Chi Minh: Café Mai: 52 Cô Bắc, Cầu Ông Lãnh, 1 District, Duong Coffee: 294 Lê Văn Sỹ, Ward 14, 3 District,

Silk or “Lụa” in Vietnamese is a symbol of the rich and luxurious of high class in the traditional culture of Vietnam . Nowadays, silk is widely used by locals daily. Silk popular by its charming, lightness, and durability.

Various ranges of silk are available in fabric, long dress, scarf, bag, and tie. Price from $3.5 per meter, higher for premium quality at $12 per meter.

Where to buy silks in Vietnam Hanoi: – Van Phuc Silk Village , 10km from Hanoi center, – Hang Gai str., Hoan Kiem,

Ho Chi Minh City Thai Tuan Silk – 419 Hai Ba Trung, Ward 8, District 3 Kenly Silk – 132 Le Thanh Ton, 1 District,

What to note? The low price one with low quality or originating from China.

Iconic of Vietnamese agriculture, Non-La (aka Vietnamese conical hat ) has been widely used in paddy rice as it designed to protect from sun and rain, light, and durable. Today, Non-La is used as an accessory for decoration, attending the festival, or going to a pagoda.

How much you pay for a conical hat? It is around $1 – $3,

What to note? Getting ones with a chin strip and outer covers with anti-water paint make it durable.

Where to buy one? Non-La is available at any souvenir’s shops or traditional markets.

Hanoi: – Old Quarter or Dong Xuan Market, Ho Chi Minh: – Ben Thanh Market,

Paintings would be one of the unique things to buy in Vietnam . Artists trying to depict every moment of daily life in Vietnam in an artistic way. Various sizes of the painting on canvas are in the material of oil, silk, or sand.

What to note: A certificate of authenticity is required for a high valued painting by a well-known artist with stamp and signature.

Tips: A piece of plastic pipe to fill the rolled paintings is the perfect way to keep the valued item out of damage.

Where to buy paintings? Paintings are easy to find at any souvenir shops or bookstores; price varies from size and quality. Price ranges: $10 – $1000

Hanoi: – Hang Gai str., Old Quarter, – Nguyen Thai Hoc str., Ba Dinh, – Van Mieu str., Ba Dinh, Hanoi,

Hoi An: – Tran Phu str., Hoi An Town, – Phan Boi Chau str., Hoi An Town

Chopsticks are very handy for salad or vegetable dishes. Made by wooden or bamboo, chopsticks are one of the best souvenirs and gifts to bring home from Vietnam .

How much you pay for a pair of chopsticks? It is recommended to have a pack of ten pairs, they are handy in daily meals and would be surprised by your guests once they are set on the table. Price starts from $1, premium quality is at a higher price and worth to buy.

Where to find the good quality ones in Hanoi? Chopsticks are available at any souvenir shops in the Old Quarter and Dong Xuan market .

Lacquerware is known as Sơn Mài in Vietnam, the unique art forms take months and 20 different meticulous stages to make a high-quality product depending on the size of the item. Plenteous lacquer products can be found in souvenir shops for decorating like large size artworks, paintings, and photograph albums or practical daily used bowls, dishes, vases, trays, and jewelry boxes.

Price for per piece of lacquerware set: price ranges are various depends on the quality and scale from $7 one piece.

Where to buy good quality lacquerware for souvenirs? Hanoi: Thu Hương Lacquer Arts: 118 Nguyen Khanh Toan, Cau Giay, Lacquer studio: 26 Luong Ngoc Quyen, Hoan Kiem, Kima Lacquer Art Gallery: 11 Thi Sach, Hai Ba Trung, P-D Art Gallery: 33B Hang Manh, Hoan Kiem

Ho Chi Minh: Minh Phuong Lacquer-ware Gallery – 40 Phung Khac Khoan, Dakao Ward, District 1

What to note: Low quality and condition lacquerware products are on the same shelves in the shops. Lacquerware is a black coated bamboo object, patterns are carved on the final layers added with green, yellow or ochre. Any products with blue, purple, and not very detailed patterns would be considered as a cheap replica or made by plastic for an appealing price. Besides, a premium lacquerware product added with at least 07 layers to have resistance with hot and high humidity and stronger. Any pieces less than 07 layers would be low quality and cheap ones.

Postcards are the most affordable and typical mementos about the daily local life or stunning scenery in Vietnam. They are the most collected souvenirs to bring back a happy vacation. A nice token to remind the visited places, decorating the walls or sending to friends and family never out of fashion. Besides, Propaganda Posters are used during the war and later in publicizing the local ideology and patriotism.

Whilst Postcards can be found in all corners of the Hanoi Old Quarter , souvenir shops , and bookstores. Propaganda Posters and war memorabilia are available in the Old Quarter too but in some dedicated gallery shops.

Tips: Reproductions of propaganda posters are available in both rice paper and canvas, whilst the paper version offers the authentic, the canvas one is more durable.

Where to buy: Postcards: Any bookstores, souvenir shops in the Old Quarter, Propaganda posters: Hanoi: – Hanoi Gallery Old Propaganda Posters: 98 Ma May str., Hoan Kiem, – Old Propaganda: 4 Nha Chung str., Hoan Kiem, – Nan Gallery Propaganda Posters: 31 Ly Quoc Su str., Hoan Kiem,

Ho Chi Minh: – Hanoi Gallery: 70 Bui Vien, Pham Ngu Lao ward, district 1, – Propaganda: 21 Han Thuyen, Ben Nghe ward, district 1,

How much to pay: – Postcards: $1 – $3 – Propaganda Posters: price ranges: $5 – $15

Embroideries are the popular souvenirs to bring home from Vietnam. The meticulous handmade products with a wide range of selection include quilts, bed sheets, pillowcases, table runners, scarfs, bags, and clothes. Dozen handicraft villages are scattering in the country and factory outlets in tourist spots. The large sizes handmade takes months to make, the quality one made by special linen and cotton with well-designed patterns.

How much to pay for an item? Price varies wildly depending on size, quality, handmade, and factory batch manufacturing. Simple creation ranging from $2 to $100, large size artwork ranging from $1,000 t0 $5,000.

Where to buy embroideries? Embroideries are available in any tourist spots across Vietnam, Sapa, and Ha Giang ethnic markets selling the organic products of ethnic residents.

Embroideries in Hanoi: – Collective Memory: 20 Nha Chung str., Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 09.00-21.00) – Tanmy Design: 61 Hang Gai str., Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 08.00-21.00) – aN Store: 8 Ly Dao Thanh str., Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 08.00-21.00) – Emporium Hanoi: 172 & 39 Xuan Dieu, Quang An (Opening hours: 09.00-20.00) – Craft Link:4 3 & 51 Van Mieu (Opening hours: 09.00-18.00)

Hoi An: – XQ Hoi An – 27 Nguyen Thai Hoc str.,

Ho Chi Minh: – XQ Saigon: 106 Le Loi, 1 district (opening hours: 08.00-21.00)

What to note: Be aware of factory-made are widely set on the showcase of many shops than handmade ones.

The traditional long dress is recognized as a national garment, a graceful long tight dress with long sleeves over the underneath trousers. The temporary styles (Tân thời) is a combination of traditional and modern style for practical using also better the beauty forms.

Traditionally designed for both men and women, wearing on special occasions, new year, wedding, and festival. Today, Ao Dai is widely wearing daily by women and feminine students. No doubt, Ao Dai is one of the best souvenirs to bring home from Vietnam .

Where to buy Ao Dai? Ao Dais are available at Hang Gai (Silk Street) and Cho Hom market. Following addresses are offering both ready-made and fabric for tailor-made: Hanoi: – Ao Dai Minh Duc: 41 Dang Tien Dong str., Dong Da (Opening hours: 08.00-20.00) – Ao Dai Thanh Mai: 428 Bach Mai str., Hai Ba Trung (Opening hours: 08.00-22.00) – La Hang Design: 41 Phung Hung str., Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 08.00-22.00)

Ho Chi Minh: – Ao Dai Lien Huong: 111 Pasteur, Ward 6, District 3 (Opening hours: 07.30-21.00) – Mark&Vy Ao Dai: 163 Xo Viet Nghe Tinh, Ward 17, Binh Thanh (Opening hours: 08.00-21.00)

How much per set of Ao Dai? Price ranges from $70 – $450 depending on the material and tailor-made.

Tips: The ready-made fit the local thin bodies are available at many shops. Customized for perfectly fit your form, purchasing the fabric, find a tailor to have your fancy dress. Given that, it costs more than ready-made and takes a few days to make.

O Mai (dried fruit) is a specialty of Hanoi, popular for both international travelers and residents. Traditionally, O Mai is a gift on a special occasion and new year snack. Nowadays, O Mai is a souvenir for visitors to Hanoi for those who wish to savor the taste from capital serving with a cup of lotus tea in subtly way. O Mai is dehydrated and dried fruit mixing with sugar, salt, and spices. Popular O Mai is made from plum, peach, kumquat, ginger, dracontomelon, and tamarind.

Where to buy? – O Mai Hong Lam: 11 Hang Duong, Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 07.30-22.00) – O Mai Tien Thinh: 21 Hang Duong, Hoan Kiem (Opening hours: 07.30-22.00)

How much it costs? Pack in 500gr at $10 for premium quality.

Tips: Pick the dried and plain coat O Mai or ask for the premium one with some extra bucks. What the best one you pick from the list? Hope you can bring home the best souvenirs.

TIPS WHEN PACKING YOUR LUGGAGE

1. Customs Rules Transporting the souvenirs home however you plan, be sure to check the Customs rules first which the items can bring home.

Food, seeds of plants or trees, and agricultural products are not allowed to be brought into many countries for contamination reasons or can be invasive, harmful to the native ecosystem of the other local plants and animals.

2. Be aware of antiques Antiques are considered national treasures in certain countries. Customs authorities seize illegal purchased antiques without compensation and may levy fine the purchasers.

3. Ship home your souvenirs Shipping eliminates the stress of traveling with souvenirs. However, it would be an expensive option.

Considering the following when shipping: – Cost analysis: Cost of shipping versus transferring the luggage with souvenirs. – Shipping insurance: It costs you more money to add insurance to high-value items but it shifts the risk to the carrier. – Tracking Number: Asking for a tracking number to follow your stuff. Any store not offering one, take the items to the local FedEx or UPS outlet for shipment.

4. Pack the Item in Your Carry-on It is recommended packing items in a carry-on to have more control of the fragile or valuable stuff. Here are some tips on carry-on luggage packaging: – Airport Security Permission: Liquid, ammunition, flammables, sharp objects, and much other stuff are not allowed. – Bring extra tote bags for fragile stuff, be assured they are in control, don’t put overhead space that can be smashed by other passengers.

5. Pack in Checked Luggage Souvenirs in checked luggage are out of your control, properly packed is considered.

Here are tips for checked luggage. – Never Pack Expensive Souvenirs in Suitcase: Never pack valuables in your suitcase. They are not safe in hands of airline, could be stolen by baggage handlers, other employees, or passengers. – Manage your luggage weight: The airlines charge the overweight. Scale to measure your luggage hen packaging. – Prevent the bottles from leaking: Package a few zip-lock bags to seal the bottles in. Using spare clothing to wrap around the already sealed in zip-lock bottles. Place the bottles in the center of the suitcase.

NOTES: 1. Bargaining and Bartering Vietnam is home of bartering; it may be a little of a culture shock or embarrassing to some. However, bartering is commonplace in local markets and many other places across Vietnam. Bartending is an art fine, once you understand the rules, instead of hatred or embarrassing, it is fun to participate and you get benefits from it.

What are the tricks? – Pay around 40-50% of the initial quoted price, it differs from shop to shop, follow the rule of thumb as the shopkeepers’ tent to mark up the price for tourists or foreigners. Just walk away when you feel the price is not good enough, a better price may be offered.

– Ask for a deal or combined discount if you are looking to buy more than one item or a whole bunch of goods.

2. You get what you pay for No doubt, you get what you pay for, the lower quality souvenirs are available at a low price. Making up your mind, estimate the price you should pay for the stuff.

3. Check the fixed-price shops Check the fixed-price shops or shopping centers then using this as a base, negotiate with the shops. Price at the local market shops is offered lower at around 15% to 20% to shopping malls.

4. Don’t buy from the first place Hanging around some shops before picking up the best offering. However, don’t waste your time too much in bargaining, use your time to enjoy your day.

5. Making a little reach for high-quality souvenirs It is recommended to have some researches if you want to buy high valued souvenirs.

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14 Souvenirs to Buy in Vietnam: Great Gift Ideas

Make sure you plan before buying small gifts and souvenirs — don’t leave it to the last minute, don’t go to the cheap touristy knickknack store.

Avoid the embarrassment and regret: get things that you will admire and love for years. In fact, all of the following items we wish we’d bought more as back-ups.

Vietnam has a deep culture of exquisite craftsmanship and technical sophistication, meaning that there are plenty of affordable, good-quality items that you can fit in your luggage. Don’t miss the opportunity!

1) Bamboo/Rattan Purses – Perfect Vietnamese Gift for Young Women

• Price : 50k-200k VND

We love these hard-case small women’s purses. They’ve matured from simple round purses to a huge industry of natural-fibre fashion accessories and furnishings.

They’ve exploded on Amazon, as savy dropshippers have tapped into the trend — but you’ll find that sourcing them directly from the streets of Hanoi will be cheaper and you’ll have much more variety.

They are small, robust, and look stylish: you should load-up on several of them as gifts for your female friends.

FUN TIP : You can actually visit the manufacturing villages where these and other handicrafts are made — it is an interesting experience to witness how traditional Vietnamese culture is adapting to global capitalism. Read more here .

2) Rượu Bàu Đá – Specialty Vietnamese Alcohol

• Price : 500k VND for 500ml

Rượu Bàu Đá is a type of specialty rice wine that comes from the village of Bàu Đá . The town boasts of a special herb-laden watershed that gives the alcohol special properties.

The ornate bottles are themselves a wonderful gift, and can be proudly displayed by any collector. Beware of cheap knock-offs — try to procure the wine from reputable shops (perhaps at the airport).

The town is an example of a traditional guild village: in the past, such villages were singularly dedicated to a one high-quality craft for Vietnamese aristocrats. Today, the ancient springs have dried up, but the multi-generational craftsmanship lives on and fuels an increasingly sophisticated high-end spirit for the Vietnamese domestic market.

3) Stretchy Elephant Pants – Fun and Comfortable Vietnamese Clothing

• Price ~60k-100k VND

These stretchy pants are a favourite among boho/hippie travelers. We love them just to wear around the house. In public, they are guaranteed to start a conversation.

One size fits all, affortable; a nice “solo-backer around the world” type of look. Make sure you buy more than one (you will regret it if not!)

4) Small “Copy” Painting – A Gift to Showcase Vietnamese Talent

• Price : 275k-500k VND

Vietnam has amazing painters and a thriving art-scene. While original & signed paintings will cost you $2000-$6000 USD, there are many affordable unsigned art-pieces that are spectacularly beautiful . Technically, they are called “copy paintings” — they operate in a grey area between outright copies and hand-made reproductions.

Due to weak IP regulation, there are dozens of copy painting shops that sell un-signed, high-quality art for $30-$100 USD. A nice 10x10inch painting can easily fit in your luggage and will brighten anyone’s wall. Our only regret is that we didn’t buy five-times more of these beautiful little creations. If you find one you like, get more!

Our favourite art-pieces are the flowers, trees, and abstract cityscapes. If you are in Hanoi, go to Hang Gai street or Dinh Liet street to find many of these galleries, both original and copy-painters.

RELATED : Our favourite promising and talented Vietnamese painters who paint amazing dark cityscapes.

5) Vietnamese “Weasel Coffee” – A Gift for Coffee Enthusiasts

• Price : 200k/kg

Vietnam’s tropical-meets-temperate mountains allows the production of a wide variety of coffees. The most luxurious of which is the weasel coffee: the coffee comes from a unique fermentation process wherein the coffee-berries are ingested by a mongoose-like animal known as civet-cat. This natural fermentation apparently removes harsh & bitter phytochemicals from the berries, making them more palatable and pleasant.

My favourite is to get a big sampler pack — collect 200g from each of the major coffee regions of Vietnam. For example, Dak Lak, Da Lat, Tay Nuguyen. I love coffee and I can’t imagine a more satisfying gift that a geographic flavour-tour of the remote highlands of Vietnam.

If you are in Hanoi, you can find many bulk-coffee merchants in the Old Quarter, for example Pho Co Coffee or Trung Coffee .

6) Dried Exotic Mushrooms – A Vietnamese Gift for Foodies

• Price : 70k for 100g

One secret to making great Vietnamese cooking, such as homemade spring-rolls , is the use of a variety of special mushrooms. Such mushrooms are both revered and commonplace in East-Asian cuisine, but they are rare to find in Western groceries. These are often the missing ingredient when Westerners try to replicate East-Asian dishes , which then end-up bland and boring.

For example: dried wood-ear mushrooms (mộc nhĩ), black-fungus mushrooms (nấm hương), or oyster mushrooms (nấm sò) are very common in Vietnamese food. You can buy these dried-goods for a very reasonable price at any supermarket in Vietnam. A little goes a long way — one meal would typically only use 3-8 mushrooms — they add a slight proteinaceous flavour.

These make great gifts for anyone who wants to make authentic Asian cuisine.

7) Hoa Dào Ornaments – an Elegant Traditional Vietnamese Ornament

• Price : 60k-300k VND (depending on material)

These are like Christmas-tree ornaments, but they hang on peach-trees instead of evergreens, and they are for Vietnamese New Year ( Tet ) instead of Christmas .

These ornaments have quasi-religious significance: they are meant to bless the bearer with wealth, good fortune, and happiness . The more elegant ones have real marble and gem stones. They work perfectly as Christmas Tree ornaments, making them a suitable gift for older female relatives who enjoy Christmas decorating. Or, they can serve as simple wall-hangings.

They can be found at the more popular temples, such as the Temple of Literature in Hanoi.

8) Ceramic Tea Set – A Traditional Vietnamese Gift

• Price : 1,000k to 3,000k VND

Tea ceremonies are incredibly important in Vietnamese culture.

Most of the high-end tea-sets are from Japan or China, who are revered for their tea cultures. However, there are still many exquisite Vietnamese-made tea-sets, especially if you are traveling near Hanoi and can visit the artisanal ceramic village of Bát Tràng which is approximately 10km from Hanoi.

9) Propaganda Posters – An Unusual Souvenir for History Buffs

• Price : 200k-900k VND

For a uniquely Vietnamese souvenir, get the old style Viet Cong propaganda posters of the 1980s.

These posters may seem hostile and anti-American, keep in mind that Vietnam is now courting more free-trade agreements with the West (e.g. CPTPP) and seeks the USA’s support to deter China’s colonialist aggression in the South China Sea. These posters are little time-capsules of Vietnam’s history and can be appreciated for their historical content, rather than the country’s current geopolitical ambitions.

Look for them in the highest-density tourist areas of large cities.

10) Lacquerware – Nghề Sơn Mài

• Price : 900k – 4,000,000 VND

This exquisite art-form is, at its core, predicated on applying a thin coat of sap from the “Japanese sumac tree” ( Toxicodendron vernicifluum ). The sheen and durability of the lacquer-coating gives the artwork a distinctive look.

However, the real appeal of the technique is due to the innovation and variety of natural materials used in making the painting/arrangement. For example, artists will use egg-shells, sea-shells, and gold-leafs as inlays, in addition to a variety of natural-pigments.

Due to the rare-nature of lacquer sap and the long, arduous process of slowly applying layer upon layer of the coating, such works can be pricey. However, there are a wide variety of other small lacquerware products that can make great gifts, such as jewelry boxes (hộp đựng trang sức sơn mài), lanterns, flower vase, furnishings and various accessories.

11) Phin – Vietnamese Coffee Filters

• Price : 120k VND

There is no reason not to get a Phin. Although the coffee-maker it is not as dramatic as an espresso maker, it can come in handy when you least expect it: camping trips, a coffee-less office…

If you are Hanoi, you can procure hand-made phins straight from the metal workers on   Hàng Điếu or Hàng Thiếc streets. The trip alone is interesting to see the grimy street-level manufacturing happening right before your eyes — not the most romantic trip but very exciting for consumers who care where their products come from.

12) Feng Shui Statues – Gifts for Superstitious Colleagues

The majority of Vietnamese offices have feng-shui statues, the most popular of which is Tỳ Hưu: a mighty mythological beast who is like a dragon/lion/dog combo. He has a big mouth and no anus, so that he can grab all the luck and retain it inside the body.

If you need a good office gift for your boss, the Tỳ Hưu is a solid choice. It is especially good to procure one at the base of Marble Mountain in Da Nang — which is incidentally one of our favourite, most beautiful pagodas to visit.

RELATED : Learn more about Vietnamese superstitions about luck and success

13) Lanterns – A Festive Souvenir from Vietnam

• Price : 20k – 70k VND

Beautiful lanterns of all shapes and colours — these are prominent ornaments throughout Vietnam, especially during festivals like Tet or Mid-Autumn .

There are many different types of lanterns — so beware. Festival lanterns are traditionally made of paper and bamboo. Their colours distinguish the event: red for Tet and weddings, white for funerals. Nowadays, they can be campy and cheap (imagine the cheapest Christmas ornaments sold at Walmart) or they can be hand-crafted and expensive.

Another type of lantern are the colourful, fabric laterns from Hoi An. These secular lanterns are meant for colourful illumination, rather than for specific one-time festivals. They are more durable and asthetically pleasing. It is said that Hoi An lanterns were first introduced to Hoi An by Chinese merchants in the 1600’s.

14) Embroidery Housewares – Old Vietnamese Craftsmanship

• Price : 300k – 5,000k VND

Nicely embroidered pillow covers, stylish table cloths, duvets, mats, and more — exquisite linens and fabric-works are a big business in Vietnam, which originates from their amazing master-craftsmanship in embroidery.

Near Hanoi and HCMC, you can find plenty of shops with good-quality mass-produced products at a reasonable price, as well as hand-made artisan goods. Some are made by women’s coop’s in Mai Chao or Sa Pa, while others are made from local high-end fashion designers.

There is famous Tam My in Hanoi, a multi-story maze of exquisite clothing and fine-linens. But also Look around the streets near Nhà Thờ not far from St. Josephs Cathedral, where there are many more tiny boutique shops.

More Gift Ideas: Luxury Goods in Vietnam

Forget hippie tribal souvenirs, splurge on some affordable luxury goods that are only available in Vietnam…

Will is a researcher in Toronto who has lived and worked in Vietnam. On his own journey learning Vietnamese, he realized the best way to learn a language is to embed the lessons in stories, cultural insights and history.

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Vietnam Travel Guide: What To Buy When Visiting Vietnam 

Here’s a list of souvenir items that are generally unique in Vietnam, collectible pieces and sustainable.

Even if you have limited baggage space, you’ll always find something that you’ll want to take home.

Travelers often say “take only pictures, leave only footprints,” as a principle of the Leave No Trace movement. However, for those of us who are into purchasing tangible things to make our travels more memorable, a few mugs and ref magnets won’t hurt anyone, right? 

Even if you have limited baggage space, you’ll always find something that you’ll want to take home. Unfortunately, souvenirs made for tourists these days are low quality and mass-produced. 

In our opinion, souvenirs should be made locally, by the locals, using local materials. It must also be ethically made to the extent possible. Lastly, a meaningful memento should be something you can use back home. 

If you happen to be visiting Vietnam while reading this, we have listed souvenir items that are generally unique in the country, collectible items and sustainable brands and social enterprises options for those who want to go the extra mile in helping local businesses.

Unique Souvenirs in Vietnam

To some, a trip to Vietnam is a trip of a lifetime and of course, you’d want something that’s equally special to remember your trip — something that’s uniquely Vietnam with a worldwide reputation.

Vietnamese coffee

Not only is Vietnamese coffee like no other in the world, but it’s also suitcase-friendly. Vietnam is the second-largest coffee exporter globally, so what would be a better souvenir than coffee? 

Not to exaggerate, but coffee is everywhere in Vietnam — you can have it from pushcarts while stuck in traffic or from to-go stands without getting off your motorbike or car. 

Vietnamese coffee is rooted in its culture. The country produces Robusta beans, but Arabica can also be found in the Highlands, especially in Buon Ma Thuot city in Dak Lak province, dubbed as the capital of coffee. We recommend visiting local farms and families producing coffee in the Highlands if you’re up for a treat.

Farm prices usually start at 100,000 VND for 200 grams of packed coffee beans. 

Ao Dai (traditional dress)

If you have a big interest in fashion and culture, Ao dai is a must-buy Vietnamese souvenir for you. The silk-made traditional long dress that symbolizes the elegance of Vietnamese women is probably one of the most recognized Vietnamese souvenirs you can find.

Though you can find ao dai almost everywhere, Hoi An is the most popular place for tailoring Ao dai to your size. Vietnamese people and tourists usually wear traditional dresses during significant holidays, such as Tet Holiday or Mid-Autumn Festival.

Prices can go over the roof depending on the season and the location you’re buying it from. If it’s from a touristy place, expect a higher rate, so don't forget to negotiate.

Tailored Ao dai usually starts at 700,000 VND and can reach 2,000,000 VND depending on the fabrics, colors, graphics, and the seller.

Non la (conical hat)

Non la is one of those objects that represent Vietnam. Just like Vietnamese coffee, don't worry about where you’ll find it because these hats are everywhere. Locals usually use palm leaves and bamboo to make conical nón lá hats , ideal for staying cool in the sun. 

Remember when we said the best souvenirs are those you can actually use back home? Non la is one of those. In Vietnam, locals around the country, especially in the countryside, wear these hats during the day to protect themselves from the sun or rain, depending on the season.

Non la prices in the market and tourist attractions vary from 20,000 to 150,000 VND. 

Silk products

Silk may be considered a luxurious item but in Vietnam, it’s surprisingly affordable and quite easy to find. Not to mention how diverse and beautiful the colors and patterns you can find here. 

Hoi An is the most recommended and widely recognized by tailors. Hanoi’s Old District is home to Silk Street (Hang Gai Street) where you can buy high-quality but a bit expensive silk. Cam Chau in Hoi An and Toan Thinh Silk in Ho Chi Minh City are other great places to buy silk.

The price per meter is at least VND 70,000 for Vietnamese silk and over VND 100,000 for premium kinds. 

Collector’s items

We all probably know someone who collects mugs with names of different cities printed on them, or themed bookmarks, or coins from each destination they’ve visited. Collecting travel souvenirs is a tried-and-true way to keep the memories of your adventures in Vietnam alive. It can also serve as a bragging right, especially if there’s a wall full of it. 

Ceramic tea sets

Ceramics in Vietnam are part of a cultural tapestry of handicrafts, including embroidery, calligraphy, weaving, and painting, among others. In fact, the country has several renowned pottery villages and distinctive styles of ceramics. 

Although it requires extra care when traveling, the tea-for-one set, which stacks into its matching teacup, is an excellent way to treat yourself. 

While ceramic products can be bought in the major cities of Hanoi , Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City, it’s always a good idea to head straight to the village source, where your unique souvenirs are more authentic and usually cheaper. You can visit Phu Lang in Bac Ninh province, or Thanh Ha on the banks of the Thu Bon River in central Vietnam, or Bau Truc in Ninh Thuan province, near the southern town of Dalat.

Lacquerware  

The Vietnamese lacquerware industry is an art handed down from generation to generation and is known for its superior quality compared to lacquer products from other Asian countries. The process of making lacquerware is arduous. It goes through 20 stages and takes over 100 days to complete. 

Lacquerware souvenir products are usually jewelry boxes, trays, plates, bowls, vases, and photograph albums. Be careful, though, to choose and find the best quality of products; some shops are selling mass-produced lacquer items that aren’t as sturdy as the legit ones. 

Prices range from VND 180,000 to VND 1,250,000 per item.

Vietnamese monopoly boards

If you’re into board games then you surely have played Monopoly before. Guess what, there’s a Vietnamese version of the world's most popular board game.

Travel back in time to the Paris of the East (Hanoi) and the Pearl of the Orient (Ho Chi Minh City) as they stood in the 1880s. To complete the time travel experience, old photos and adorable pawns wearing ao dai and non la are also parts of the game.

Vietcetera has its own Saigonopoly where some famous places in Ho Chi Minh City such as Turtle Lake, Ben Thanh Market, Bui Vien Walking Street are seen. This modern version also features restaurants and bars in the city.

Sustainable brands 

Locally produced brands have a more sustainable impact on the environment and the community. In Vietnam — north, central, or south — you’ll find countless options to choose from. From NGOs providing sustainable employment for underprivileged women to textiles made by Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups, here are some feel-good souvenir ideas.

Mekong Quilts Shop

At Mekong Quilts, “Every item purchased is a gift that gives twice.” Since 2001, this NGO has impacted the planet, on people, and on each person who got their products. Mekong Quilts is a social enterprise by Mekong Plus with branches in Vietnam and Cambodia. The NGO favors sustainable employment for women in the poor community by creating high-quality products that are respectful of the planet.

HO CHI MINH CITY

68 Le Loi, 1st floor, District 1

+84 (28) 2210 3110

9am – 6:30pm every day

[email protected] 

13 Hang Bac Hoan Kiem

+84 (24) 3926 4831

Monday-Sunday: 11am – 6pm

[email protected] 

Indigo Cat Ethnic Textiles

In 2012, the first 100% Hmong-owned shop in Sapa opened. Indigo Cat is authentic; all products are genuinely manufactured by hand. From homegrown hemp to traditional batik or handmade embroidery, they carefully choose their fabrics by visiting local families from all over the northern part of Vietnam. They also offer workshops where you can make your own ‘batik’ and own an extra-special souvenir. 

034 Phan Xi Pang Fansipan Sapa, Sa Pa, Lào Cai

https://www.indigocat.shop/shopping/

Collective Memory Boutique

Founded by the duo of a Vietnamese travel writer and a photographer, Collective Memory’s concept brings together authentic and high-quality brands under one roof. The boutique’s centrally located in the heart of Hanoi’ Parisian-style chic designer district — where it rightfully belongs. Collective Memory curates a selection of Vietnamese art, crafts and organic goods. As for art lovers, the boutique stocks contemporary art posters and original photo prints. 

12 Nha Chung Street

Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam

Tel: (+84) 0986 474 243

[email protected]

www.collectivememory.vn  

21 Great Souvenirs From Vietnam That Don’t Suck

If you’re wondering what to buy in Vietnam, look no further! From traditional Vietnamese hats and lanterns to wartime propaganda posters, this post features the best souvenirs from Vietnam to bring home from your trip.

Vietnam is a diverse country with a unique culture. Not only is it one of the cheapest countries in Asia , but world-famous places like Hoi An, Ha Long Bay and Sa Pa also make it one of the continent’s most popular travel destinations.

If you’re travelling to Vietnam , then you might want to bring back some nice souvenirs that will remind you of your trip once you’re back home.

So, let’s dive into it! Whether you’re looking for Vietnamese souvenirs for friends, family or yourself, you will find the best  souvenir ideas  in this post.

21 Best Souvenirs from Vietnam to Bring Home from Your Trip

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you click on them and make a purchase. This is at no extra cost to you and it allows me to keep producing free content. 💜

1. Hand fan

During the olden days, a paper fan was an indispensable item in every Vietnamese household. These were used to cool off on hot summer days. Although they’re not used very often anymore today, you will find hand fans in shops all over Vietnam. They come in a wide variety of colours and designs.

Hand fans are beautiful souvenirs that you can either use to decorate your house or to cool off. I personally love these items and always carry a hand fan with me when it’s hot during the summer.

2. Chopsticks

One of the things Vietnam is famous for is its delicious food and it’s no secret that the Vietnamese eat their meals using chopsticks. When you’re travelling in Vietnam, you will use chopsticks all the time, so why not take some sets back home with you? They will remind you of your travels!

Chopsticks are very affordable souvenirs that are light and easy to pack. On top of that, you will find them anywhere in the country.

3. Lanterns

Another great souvenir from Vietnam is lanterns. These have been part of the Vietnamese culture since ancient times and they come in many shapes, sizes and colours.

Although you can find lanterns in many places in the country, Hoi An is the most famous place to buy them. This is the city where the Lantern Festival is held and it’s one of the most beautiful places in Vietnam . The Lantern Festival festival celebrates the full moon, which is one of the most sacred times in the Buddhist calendar.

Vietnam is one of the biggest coffee exporters in the world and coffee is one of the country’s most popular drinks (you will find PLENTY of coffee bars here). So, if you’re a coffee lover, then coffee might be the perfect souvenir to bring home from your trip! It will allow you to recall the taste of this country every time you brew a cup of coffee at home.

Coffee can easily be found all over the country. Some of the country’s most famous brands are Trung Nguyen , Lang Thang , Highlands and VinaCafe .

5. Traditional Vietnamese hat (nón lá)

Also called nón lá, a traditional Vietnamese hat is one of the most popular souvenirs to bring home from Vietnam. These conical hats are a symbol of Vietnam and you will see people wearing them nearly everywhere you go in the country.

These hats are associated with a Vietnamese legend that tells the story of a goddess who first crafted a giant conical hat to protect the land from floods. Ever since people have been crafting hats in the same shape to honour the goddess and protect themselves from the sun or rain.

If you buy one of these hats, they can also make for a great photo prop while you’re travelling in Vietnam.

6. Musical instruments

If you’re a musician or love music, why not take home a traditional Vietnamese musical instrument ? This way, you will be able to recall the sounds of Vietnam anytime from the comfort of your home.

Some instruments that aren’t too big to be packed in your luggage are bamboo flutes (Sao Truc) , oboes (Ken Bau) and song loan , a percussion instrument. You can find these in some souvenir shops and music shops.

7. Propaganda posters

Propaganda posters from the Vietnam War are another unique Vietnamese souvenir (and a little piece of history at the same time). After all, you won’t find these very easily in other countries.

You will mainly find shops selling wartime posters featuring Ho Chi Minh (a revolutionary and former president of Vietnam) or Viet Cong fighters in the cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

8. Bamboo root carvings

One of the most unique souvenirs from Vietnam is bamboo root carvings. To make these, artisans use the roots of bamboo to create the hair or beard of their artworks, which are usually happy old men.

I saw many of these carvings in cities like Hanoi and Hoi An and absolutely love them. It’s one of the things I would probably buy if I had a fixed address.

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9. Clothing

Whether you’re looking for traditional Vietnamese clothes or Western clothes, you will find plenty of these at markets and in shops. Clothing is a useful souvenir that will remind you of your trip to Vietnam each time you wear your new assets!

If you’re looking for traditional Vietnamese clothes, look out for ào dài . These are traditional dresses worn by both men and women on special occasions.

10. Paintings

Vietnamese paintings and artworks are the ideal souvenirs to decorate your house with. They will remind you of your travels in this beautiful country each time you look at them.

From paintings or calligraphy on dó paper (hand-made paper that’s produced in Vietnamese villages) to colourful paintings on canvas, Vietnam has artworks for nearly any taste. You will find plenty of shops selling them.

11. Wooden clogs (guoc moc)

These traditional sandals were worn by both men and women with an áo dài (see #9 on this list) in Vietnam for thousands of years. Although people don’t wear them anymore, many shops still sell these wooden clogs.

They can be nice to wear or maybe even decorate your house with once you’re back home.

12. Vietnamese candy

If you’re looking for food souvenirs from Vietnam then why not bring back some delicious Vietnamese candy? These are easy to pack, cheap and tasty, and on top of that, you will find them in many local stores and markets.

Some of the most popular Vietnamese sweets are:

• Coconut candy (keo dua) : These delicious sweets originated in the Mekong Delta and they’re particularly popular in Ben Tre.
• Banana candy (keo chuoi) : Made from banana and peanuts or sesame seeds, this sticky candy is super tasty.
• Tamarind candy : This traditional Vietnamese snack is sweet and sour at the same time and it’s quite healthy too!
• Dried fruit (o mai) : Dried fruit is a popular speciality in Hanoi. It’s mixed with sugar, salt and spices, and often serves as a gift for the new year and other special occasions.

13. Lacquerware

Influenced by French colonial times, the art of lacquerware became popular in Vietnam in the early 20th century. It’s an art form that artisans continue to create until this day, and you will find plenty of lacquerware items in Vietnamese shops.

Bringing home lacquerware bowls, plates, cups or vases might just be the perfect Vietnamese souvenir that will remind you of the country each time you use it.

Silk items are not only great souvenirs from Thailand , but also from Vietnam. The latter is famous for its production of silk and you will find plenty of shops selling it on the streets of Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City. It’s interesting to note that this fabric was once used as a currency in trade here.

Silk makes for a beautiful souvenir from Vietnam but make sure to check the quality of the silk before purchasing it as this can vary greatly or even be another material.

15. Hand embroidery

In Vietnam, hand embroidery is a handicraft that has been practised for over 700 years. Until today, Vietnamese artisans have been using needles to create a variety of beautiful drawings and motifs on cloth. Some of the most popular themes are flowers, landscapes and life scenes.

Some useful hand-embroidered items that you can buy in Vietnam include fans, handbags, bed sheets, clothing, towels, napkins, etc. The list goes on!

16. Tailor-made clothing

Vietnam is the perfect destination for tailor-made clothing. Hoi An, in particular, is the place to go if you want to buy custom-made clothes. In this city alone, hundreds of tailor shops make anything you can dream of from scratch: dresses, skirts, pants, shirts, bikinis, shoes – you name it!

Most shops have their designs displayed, but you can also bring a picture of what you would like, choose a fabric and have it made.

17. Jewelry

Another nice souvenir is jewellery. From beautiful traditional Vietnamese jewellery to more everyday jewellery, this is something you can bring with you everywhere (unless you want to wear it on special occasions).

I’m not sure if this counts as real jewellery but I bought a bracelet from an old lady in Sa Pa after she invited me into her house to drink tea. It might not be handmade like she said it was, but it’s a beautiful memory of a great day in Sa Pa and I wear it every day (I actually can’t take it off because it’s tied with a knot).

18. Vietnamese tea

Vietnam is one of the largest tea producers in the world. Just like coffee (#4 on this list), this drink is very popular among locals. If you like drinking tea, then bringing it back as a souvenir will remind you of your travels every time you drink a cup.

You will find a wide range of tea varieties in Vietnam. These can be divided into three main categories: green tea , black tea and scented tea . The latter is tea mixed with flowers like lotus or chrysanthemum.

19. Herbs and spices

If you like food or enjoy cooking, then Vietnamese herbs and spices might be the ideal souvenir for you! Vietnamese cuisine is famous all over the world and you will find numerous cooking classes all over the country.

Some of the herbs and spices that are used the most in Vietnamese cuisine are lemongrass , Thái Basil , Perilla and Vietnamese coriander .

20. A tattoo

A tattoo is a beautiful souvenir that you will always carry with you. This is the most permanent Vietnamese souvenir on this list, though. So make sure to think things through if you decide to get tattooed.

There are plenty of places to get tattooed in Vietnam. Do make sure to research local artists and tattoo shops in advance, though.

I got a tattoo as a souvenir from Pakistan and it’s one of the best souvenirs I ever got!

21. Vietnamese masks

There are different types of makes in Vietnam. You will find plenty of places selling wooden masks of Buddhas (as pictured above), for example.

Brightly painted traditional masks are popular in the north of Vietnam. These are used during festivals and they represent the emotions of characters from folktales and legends.

No matter which type of mask you choose, this is an item that will look great on the wall of your living room. It will remind you of the time you spent in this fascinating country.

Tips for Buying Souvenirs in Vietnam

• An important thing to consider when buying souvenirs in Vietnam is that most of the time, prices aren’t fixed and shopkeepers expect you to haggle . This isn’t the case in all shops though, as some do work with fixed prices (this is mostly the case when the price is written on a sticker).
• Check the quality if you buy silk, jewellery or something else that you would like to use for a long time.

Souvenirs from Vietnam: Final Thoughts

And this was it – my list with 21 souvenirs from Vietnam. I hope this list has inspired you and that you have found a souvenir that suits you.

Although I can’t buy many souvenirs because I’m travelling full-time, I did buy some nice things in Vietnam! These include two hand fans (I love using these in the summer), a bracelet from Sa Pa and a pair of pants from Hoi An.

Can you think of other cool souvenirs from Vietnam that are missing from this list? Let me know in the comments! I might add them to this list.

Read more about Vietnam: 🗓 The Ultimate Vietnam Itinerary for 2 Weeks 🏙️ 1 Day in Ho Chi Minh: The Best Things to Do 🏮 10 Things to Do in Hoi An (+ Travel Guide) 🪔 Incense Village in Hanoi: The Ultimate Guide ⛰️ 17 Most Beautiful Places in Vietnam

Pin it for later: Did you find this post helpful? Save it on Pinterest and follow me on Instagram and Facebook for more travel tips and inspiration.

Laura Meyers

Laura Meyers is the founder of Laure Wanders. She was born in Belgium and has been travelling solo for years. She currently spends most of her time between Belgium and South Asia and loves helping other travellers plan their adventures abroad.

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21 Dazzling Vietnam Souvenirs to Remember Your Wonderful Trip

Last Updated on: 19th June 2023, 06:40 pm

For many, a trip to Vietnam is a trip of a lifetime, and you want something equally as special to remember your trip by once you get home.

Since you are appreciating the landscapes and culture of Vietnam, your souvenir from Vietnam should something that is both significant to you and unique to Vietnamese culture (or at least are really fun). 

These are the best Vietnam souvenirs and ideas for Vietnamese gifts for you to take back for friends and family!

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What to Buy in Vietnam

In no particular order…

The iconic hat is probably the most recognizable souvenirs that show you have been to Vietnam. It is an important symbol of the country. Known also as Non La, the hat reflects the rich agricultural culture of the country. During your travels around the country, you’ll see this hat everywhere from busy city streets to rural rice fields.

You can easily buy this in any market from the countryside to the city. This iconic hat is not only good to protect from the sun, but it also looks quite charming! Make sure to only wear it respectfully. Some travelers also use this handmade hat to decorate the houses when they get back home. These also make great educational Vietnamese gifts for children!

Ao Dai Traditional Dress

In Vietnamese daily life, the Ao Dai is used for formal occasions or holidays. There are designs for both men and women. Originally, this costume had two parts that contrasted: the long dress and the pants underneath.

The reason why foreigners love Ao Dai because it makes your body looks thinner and taller. One of the best places to buy Ao Dai is IN Hoi An where the tailor-made service is amazing. You can have a beautiful dress made to order within a day!

If you’re looking for a great Vietnamese gift for her, try to get an idea of your special someone’s measurements so you can bring back one that fits beautifully. 

Of course, as with all traditional clothing and cultural apparel, be respectful. There’s a really fine line between appreciation and cultural appropriation. Purchasing them is a great way to support the local economy, but don’t wear them as costumes.

Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnam is listed amongst the top coffee exporting countries in the world. The local coffee culture is distinctive, and you can try local unique drinks like Ca Phe Sua and Egg Coffee.

To have something to bring back home, I would recommend you visit some of the family-owned spots like Mai Café, and Nhan Café to buy the authentic Robusta Arabica to take home with you.

Vietnamese Paintings

Vietnam paintings have their own voice. They are not full of monks or Buddhist images like you find in Myanmar, Laos, or Cambodia. Instead, you`ll find beautiful scenes capturing nostalgic streets, picturesque rice terraces, golden autumns, etc.

These make great home decor. (In fact, my souvenir collection includes paintings and photographs from all over the world). 

In the old quarter of Hanoi, there are numerous galleries that offer paintings from $25 to $500. When buying art in foreign countries, make sure to look for pieces you’ll love and will fit into the rest of your decor at home. 

Vietnam Lanterns

After a Vietnam Tour, you may want to pick up something light that won’t add too much weight to your day bag. A Vietnamese Lantern is a great typical souvenir from Vietnam, and they are rarely heavy.

In Central Vietnam, especially in the Unesco World Heritage Site of Hoi An, lanterns are made by local artisans without any machinery. I really can’t think of a more charming Vietnamese gift to bring back for your family than a beautiful handmade lantern. 

For those who want to have a sign of Asian culture in their house, a lantern is such a great choice. Nowadays, you can choose lanterns from different motifs, sizes, and shapes. Even the most particular traveler will find one he or she can adore!

It comes as no surprise that Puppetry is one of the most entertaining performances you can attend while you’re in Vietnam. This is considered a must-do while in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City at night.

When the performance finishes, you actually can buy a puppet to bring back home! If you’re looking for a Vietnamese souvenir for kids, these are a great choice!

Vietnamese Tea

Many people do not know that Vietnamese tea culture is extremely important to the Vietnamese. Across the country, there are many types of teas that do not appear in your place from bitter tea to herbal one.

Each tea region has its specialty. For example, Moc Chau plateau is good for Oo Long tea, Hanoi is famous for scented lotus tea, and Thai Nguyen is well known for green tea.

Depends on your travel itinerary and taste, you can pick up your personalized tea bags as a great Vietnam souvenir that won’t take up much room in your luggage. This is also a good option if you’re looking to bring back a Vietnamese gift for a friend or coworker.

Tribal Handicraft and Brocade

The mountains of Vietnam are home to many different hill-tribes whose traditional work of making colorful handicrafts is widely recognized. The markets of Sapa or Ha Giang display plenty of these handicrafts and brocades made by the Hmong, Dzao, and Tay ethnic minorities.

These are ideal places to buy an eye-catching dress or a handmade silver necklace.

Make sure to buy as close to the source as possible so you know your money is going directly to the artisans and local craftspeople making the items from their cultural traditions. 

O Mai Sweetened Fruits

Looking for something to bring back for your tea time at home to make it even more special? Try O Mai, a Hanoi specialty that consists of dried fruits mixed with sugar, salt, lime, chili, and ginger. These snacks pair well with tea, especially lotus tea.

These are a great option if you don’t have much room in your luggage or are looking for cheap Vietnam souvenirs that won’t break your budget.

Propaganda Posters

Historic Vietnamese propaganda makes for a great souvenir. Unlike Communist souvenirs from post-Soviet and other formerly Communist countries, keep in mind that Vietnam is still Communist and so much of the propaganda and other communist artifacts reflect the current community spirit that has been developed in the country.

Moreover, most of the propaganda is designed by famous local artists so they can be considered as a type of art too. You can choose from current and historic varieties. 

Vietnamese Silk

Vietnam is famous for its silk products. I couldn’t help but pick out a beautiful silk robe to bring back from m own Vietnam travels. Sleeping bag liners, pillows, and decorative items are also popular options and are available in many shops. The best places to purchase are Van Phuc Silk, Hanoi and the Old Town in Hoi An.

Traditional Dó Paper

The traditional work of making Do paper originated in Bac Ninh province. The main material is the bark of the Rhamnoneuron Balansae tree. It is used for making the Dong Ho painting.

This is a great Hanoi souvenir option. Do paper has many varieties and you can find both blank sheets and ones with pictures.

Lacquer Ware

Lacquer Ware kicked off in the 1930s at Hanoi University. This is a great gift from Vietnam since you can find it in many varieties and sizes, but the art form is uniquely Vietnamese. 

Books about Vietnam

One of my all-time favorite souvenir ideas is to pick up local literature when you’re in a country. You can find local literature, both novels and non-fiction, that may not be available back home or online. This is especially true for books published and sold in museum gift shops since these tend to be specialty items with smaller print runs.

I chose these two books by Pulitzer Prize Winner Viet Thanh Nguyen. Even though these books are available around the world, I love my copies more because they’re from Vietnam. 

Vietnam Flag Souvenirs

Budding Vexillologists and flag enthusiasts should pick up a few Vietnamese flag souvenirs. They’re widely available, and the Vietnamese flag is a really beautiful and easily recognizable one. 

Vietnamese Food and Sauces

My business partner Allison may or may not have a pantry stocked with sauces from Vietnam from a trip she took solely to indulge in Vietnamese food for two weeks. While you can’t bring back an entire pantry or an unlimited supply of Bun Bo Nam Bo, you can bring back sauces and spices that will enhance your cooking and allow you to make some of these dishes back home.

Vietnamese Coffee Filter and Tea Sets

If you love specialty kitchen gadgets and beautiful kitchenware, then consider picking up a Vietnamese coffee filter or a beautiful tea set. If you love the extra bit of tradition and pomp that comes with using the right tools, you’ll love having these handy in your kitchen.

Bamboo Sling

I’ll be honest. I can’t think of a single thing I’d use a bamboo sling for in my real life. Yet watching the Vietnamese gracefully maneuver busy streets and country farms with them makes me want one anyway. I’m kind of heartbroken that I didn’t bring one back, to be honest.

A Vietnamese Cookbook

I love picking up cookbooks written by local chefs when I travel. From Crete to Hungary, my cooking has gotten (a smidge) better because I have the books teaching me what I need to do. If you fall in love with dishes from a certain part of Vietnam, make sure to pick up a cookbook! It can be really hard to find good Asian cookbooks written by Asian authors in a lot of Europe and North America. 

Punny T-Shirts

I’m obsessed with travel puns, and I honestly regret to this very day that I only snapped a pic of this t-shirt and didn’t buy it for myself. If you see an amazing Vietnam pun on a t-shirt, please don’t leave Vietnam without it!

Traditional Kitschy Souvenirs

If you always buy a particular type of souvenir for a collection, whether you’re looking for a refrigerator magnet, a spoon, a bell, etc., you’ll be able to find them easily in Vietnam. There are lots of great souvenir shops in the cities and airports that carry typical Vietnamese souvenirs. 

More Vietnam Travel Resources

Headed to Vietnam? Enjoy these quotes about Vietnam and Vietnam puns for trip inspiration and travel captions!

5 Things to Bring to Vietnam

The   Lonely Planet Vietnam guidebook for your trip. I used a Kindle version during my time in Vietnam. It’s hard to find guidebooks once you’re actually on the ground.

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie.

A Camera  since Vietnam is super photogenic. I use a mix of my  Nikon D810  and my   Samsung8  smartphone these days.

A Full-Sized Travel Towel   for anyone taking advantage of Vietnam’s beaches (or…hostels…). This is the  best travel towel in the world , and you’ll need it if you are staying in hostels or anywhere that requires you to bring your towel.

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc). My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe , which is especially great for Vietnam because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets. It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day. 

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Vietnam make sure you have a valid  Travel  Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I pay for  World Nomads,  and I happily recommend them. It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out in cities like Hanoi where tourists can easily become the targets of pickpockets.

I have been a paying customer of  World Nomads  for travel insurance for three years, and I happily recommend them.  If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

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Best Vietnam Souvenirs to Bring Home

Bring a little of vietnam back home with our list of highly recommended vietnamese souvenirs..

• Updated: May 19, 2023 Katie NGUYEN in Beautiful Vietnam , Best of Vietnam , Vietnam Travel Tips 2 comments.

Vietnamese Coffee – Best Vietnam Souvenir

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Vietnamese coffee is what most tourists would probably recommend. After tasting specialties like “cà phê sữa đá” (sweetened milk coffee), “cà phê sữa chua” (yogurt coffee), “cà phê trứng” (egg coffee), etc. it’s easy to understand why tourists love the coffee in Vietnam so much. Vietnam is also ranked 2nd in the world for coffee producers , especially its Robusta beans, and the baristas know how to get the most out of it. With only 4-$5 (or slightly more expensive depending on the type of coffee you choose), you can buy a 500g pack of Trung Nguyen coffee, the most famous brand of coffee in Vietnam, or just visit a local coffee shop as they would also sell in smaller packages. And don’t forget to buy a Vietnamese coffee filter (Phin cà phê) to make an authentic cup of Vietnamese coffee. This will be an ideal souvenir from Vietnam.

Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnamese Tea

Considering the health benefits of tea make it a thoughtful and practical souvenir. High-quality tea is grown in certain regions of Vietnam and follows a strict procedure in cultivation and process. Although Vietnam isn’t the only country growing tea but the product that is freshly pickled, still preserves lots of floral is absolutely a signature of Vietnam. Lotus tea sounds like a wonderful souvenir to bring back home! The process of marinating green tea leaves inside a lotus flower can be a great story that comes with it, and the resulting tea with its unique aroma and flavor would make a great gift or a special treat for oneself.

Vietnamese Lotus Tea

Coconut Candies

You can easily find coconut water in many countries, but in Vietnam, we have an amazing candy that is so sweet and delicious and can’t be found anywhere else. Coconut candies originated in Ben Tre province within the Mekong Delta, where coconut palms thrive. Besides the original coconut candy, there are lots of different flavors that can satisfy anyone, from cocoa, ginger, peanuts, coffee, pandan, or taro… to strong ones like durian. For the best taste, you should enjoy these sweets with a cup of tea. Almost all coconut candies are made in Ben Tre, but you can find them in any supermarket, grocery store, or souvenir shop at a reasonable price, only $1.5-4 per pack.

Vietnamese Coconut Candy

Vietnamese Salted or Sugared Dried Fruit (Ô Mai)

“Ô Mai” is the name we give to Vietnamese-style dried fruit. After a preliminary process, the fruits are pickled with sugar or salt, and sometimes with ginger or licorice or even chilly, then cooked until all the spices are condensed and coat the entire fruit. “Ô Mai” is also part of the traditional Tet Holiday, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year. There are many places selling “Ô Mai” in Vietnam, but the best place is Hang Duong Street in Hanoi, the place is famous for the family producers who keep passing down their work from generation to generation. The price varies from $7-10/kg depending on the types of fruits and the complexity of cooking, they public the price of the products on the containers, and you can taste everything before making your decision. “Ô Mai” sure will be great souvenirs from Vietnam that everyone in your home country would love.

Vietnamese “Ô Mai”

Vietnamese Spices

Vietnamese herbs and spices are the perfect gifts for your loved ones at home, especially if they are really into cooking. Recognized as the basis of all culinary sensations consumed in the country, Vietnamese cuisine is loved around the world for its brilliant balance of fresh flavors, inviting aromas, and complex textures. Almost every destination in Vietnam offers regional cooking classes at varying levels of difficulty, so why not bring an authentic taste of Vietnam home? Herbal packets start at $3.

Brocade Accessories

Brocade is a type of fabric associated with the life of ethnic minorities. It is woven by hand using traditional weaving techniques. It is rich in patterns that are made directly in the weaving process. The special thing about this fabric is its material. Brocade materials are of natural origin, mainly cotton, hemp, and linen. Brocade products are very diverse such as clothes, handbags, and shoes.

Normally, these products are sold on almost all Vietnam tourist destinations for only $2-10 depending on the product, but if you want to buy genuine products, find stores that offer real handcrafted items, although they may be more expensive. Another option you can consider is to travel to the highlands up North, where most of the ethnic minorities live, to learn about their culture, see firsthand how they make it, and make your purchase on-site. Considering brocade accessories are more than just souvenirs from Vietnam, they will also have a fashion value too.

Vietnam Ceramic Products

Ceramics is an art appreciated by the Vietnamese people for millennia. Bat Trang village is famous for this kind of art for a long time, located not far from Hanoi, on the banks of the Red River. Even today, this village still keeps an excellent reputation for ceramics, with more than 600 kilns still in operation. Bat Trang ceramics are exported nationwide as well as internationally.

Vietnamese Ceramics

Despite the massive arrival of plastic objects gradually replacing ceramics in the daily life of Vietnamese families, this ancestral art has seen its cultural and historical values ​​continue to flourish through times and places. Besides Bat Trang, one can find beautiful works in the village of Chu Dau (still in the Red River delta), in the village of Than Ha (in central Vietnam, near Hoi An), or in the village of Bau Truc (in Central Vietnam, south of Hoi An). Such beautiful souvenirs from Vietnam to bring back with care, careful packaging is recommended.

Silk Products

Previously, silk was a high-end product that only the wealthy could afford, but now it is increasingly popular and is one of Vietnam’s best souvenirs for tourists to buy, and it is quite affordable: about 10 dollars per meter. In Vietnam, silk is used in many Vietnamese costumes, including the traditional “áo dài”. The extremely diverse and beautiful colors and patterns of Vietnamese silk will satisfy everyone. There are two places in Vietnam that are the best to buy silk: Van Phuc Silk Village in Hanoi and Hoi An Silk Village in Hoi An Ancient Town . Recently, in Hoi An they are also offering tailor service, so you can even have a silk suit in your own customized size at a very reasonable price.

Áo Dài – The Traditional Costume of Vietnam

Talk about Vietnam souvenirs we can not past the traditional costume – “áo dài”, the pride of Vietnamese fashion. It is an outfit intended for women and also for men, which embodies beauty, grace, and elegance, consisting of two parts: a long-sleeved tunic that hugs the curves and pants. The costume will make you look very beautiful as it will highlight the curves, while still being discrete enough to wear to important events. It will be a great gift for you or your important women as a beautiful memory of Vietnam.

Ao Dai – The National Costume of Vietnam

Vietnamese Conical Hat (Nón Lá) – Must-buy Vietnam Souvenir

The Vietnamese conical hat or “Nón lá” is an iconic image, reminiscent of farmers working in the rice fields or young Vietnamese girls wearing “Áo dài” walking through the streets. Made from palm fronds and bamboo, the “Nón lá” was used to protect farmers who worked in the scorching sun and heavy rains all day. Today, it is not only used in rural areas but also sell to tourists as souvenirs. The authentic, old-school hat is thick and a bit heavy. But for the souvenir, it is rather light so that tourists can easily travel with it. The shape of the “Nón lá” makes it quite difficult to carry in your luggage, our advice for you is to take it on a plane and everything is solved.

Vietnamese Conical Hat

Vietnam Traditional Wooden Clogs

Not just a hat and a costume, there is also a type of footwear that are also traditional in Vietnam. They are traditional wooden clogs, usually worn with an “áo dài”. These types of shoes have been part of Vietnamese culture for thousands of years, before leather and plastic shoes. Now, on Tet Holiday we can still see Vietnamese women wearing them with the traditional “Áo dài”, but they are not as popular as they used to However, they still make a nice souvenir of Vietnam, even if you don’t intend to wear them.

Vietnamese Wooden Clogs

Tailored-made Garment

While staying in large cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City , you should go out and have yourself some bespoke clothing. As mentioned above, some shops in Hoi An have a tailoring service for tourists, they will take your measurements and your request before returning your items to your hotel just 2 days after at a very reasonable price, just around $ 50.

Vietnamese Bamboo And Rattan Products

Bamboo is considered a traditional plant in Vietnamese culture. A symbol of the villages of Vietnam, bamboo and its products are present throughout the country. A wide variety of bamboo products for you to choose from baskets, trays, bowls, furniture, and decorative items. You will be amazed at the beauty and the quality of these bamboo souvenirs, intricately designed by the locals.

Bamboo And Rattan Products

Vietnamese “Dó” Paper Products

“Dó” paper is a unique and beautiful product of Vietnam, and “dó” paper postcards make for a wonderful and meaningful souvenir. The intricate designs and textures of the paper, combined with the personal touch of a handwritten message, make for a special and memorable gift for loved ones back home. Plus, it’s a sustainable and eco-friendly option as well, as “dó” paper is made from natural materials and traditional methods. It will be a great souvenir from Vietnam.

“Dó” Paper Souvenirs

Across Vietnam, from the North to the South, there are lots of diverse cultures, traditions, and different specialties. Therefore, each place offers a distinct experience and unique and spectacular memories. So having some souvenirs from Vietnam along your way to discovering the country will make your trip more memorable.

Do not hesitate to contact us   if you want more information about a trip to Vietnam !

Read more: 

• Vietnam on a Budget: How to Prepare for Your Trip
• Top 10 Vietnam Table Manners
• Top 10 Do’s and Don’ts in Vietnam

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Katie NGUYEN

Hello, my name is Katie, I'm a travel blogger at IDC Travel. After my adventures and what I've learned on my trips and from my research, I will help you with planning your trip to Vietnam & Southeast Asia and make your journey remarkable.

Comments(2)

I bought Vietnamese coffee for my friends and they all loved it. I don’t remember exactly the name of the shop as I randomly came across during my Hanoi city tour.

Hi Jeanette, Thank you so much for your sharing! It seems that you have had a great time in Vietnam. Look forward to see you more in our beautiful S-shaped country. Best regards, IDC Travel Team.

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Best traditional Vietnamese gifts for your family and friends

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Recently updated on October 20th, 2022 at 06:48 pm

When traveling to a new country, most people want to get the typical gift of the destination as a souvenir or gift for friends. Let us introduce you meaningful Vietnamese traditional gifts that are loved by foreign tourists, I hope the article will help you choose the most suitable traditional Vietnamese gifts.

The Vietnamese Ao Dai is world-famous for its unique design, which enhances the existing beauty of women, making them even more attractive.

And especially, Ao Dai has become a national costume of Vietnam and is one of Vietnam’s very specific souvenirs. Many foreign tourists coming to Vietnam seem to like the Ao Dai and some have ordered some to take home.

Nowadays, there are modernized Ao Dai designs with 2 shorter ties and a change in the collar, retaining the traditional but more modern beauty.

The innovation of the Ao Dai makes it easier for women in moving and can wear it on many different occasions.

Palm-leaf conical hat

The conical hat is known by tourists as a symbol of Vietnam – a country with a wet rice civilization. The conical hat appeared in Vietnam in the middle of the 13th century and has been associated with Vietnamese people, especially farmers, from the past to the present.

In addition to the use of sun and rain cover, conical hats are also a charm for Vietnamese girls when combined with traditional costumes such as ao dai, and ao ba …

It becomes a symbol of Vietnamese women’s beauty. You can buy these conical hats wherever you go in Vietnam.

Wooden clogs

Wooden clogs have become a familiar image, associated with the daily life of Vietnamese people since ancient times.

Like traditional Ao Dai and conical hats, these small clogs are simple but simple enough to imprint the mark of national culture.

Small but extremely delicate clogs exude a rustic and simple beauty like Vietnamese people. When combined with ao dai, conical hats, and wooden clogs, the image of a Vietnamese girl is extremely charming.

Therefore, wooden clogs are a lot of foreigners looking to buy as gifts, and this is also considered one of the souvenirs most loved by foreigners when coming to Vietnam .

Silk is one of the most favorite items in fabrics because of the softness of the material and is one of the best traditional Vietnamese gifts.

Silk garments and fashion are also one of the souvenirs in Vietnam that have made their mark in the hearts of international visitors.

Products made from silk have many unique designs, and traditional and folk motifs to serve tourists, ranging from clothes to other products such as towels, and bags …

Guests can order silk clothes at the tailor shops and receive their goods in just 1 day. Vietnam has many famous silk villages such as Van Phuc silk village in Hanoi , Nha Xa silk village in Ha Nam, Duy Xuyen silk village in Quang Nam …

Traditional ceramics

Ceramics are traditional crafts of many countries around the world and in each place, ceramic souvenirs have their own characteristics, showing the cultural beauty and uniqueness of that land.

Vietnamese ceramics are also a unique souvenir for visitors. Vietnam has many famous ceramic brands such as Bat Trang, Chu Dau, Tho Ha, Bien Hoa, and Bau Chuc, …

Each trade village has its own unique features in its products.

• Bat Trang Pottery Village (Hanoi)

Souvenirs from brocade fabric

Brocade Vietnam is an image that impresses many international visitors when coming to Vietnam. Where, in any store in the tourist area, one can see the stalls selling all sorts of brocade items from bags, towels, clothes, hats, and skirts to key chains.

Brocade motifs are very eye-catching and colorful with many geometric blocks creating symmetry and loops in the work.

Hand-embroidered, containing both the soul and love of the country, the image of plants and trees, and the scenery of Vietnamese people makes many tourists love and buy as gifts.

As a result, brocade weaving products are not only popular with people in the mountainous areas, but have also become a “popular” item in most tourist areas of Vietnam.

Souvenirs from bamboo and rattan

There are many bamboo and rattan souvenirs in Vietnam that attract the attention of international visitors: bookmarks (bookmark pages), decorative lights, cosmetic containers, trays…

Lacquer products

Lacquer products with skillful craftsmanship drawn on pure Vietnamese themes are always a souvenir to buy when visiting Vietnam.

Water puppets

Water puppetry is a famous folk art discipline of Vietnam and this is one of the favorite experiences of tourists traveling to Vietnam.

In addition, the souvenir products derived from this art form are meaningful gifts, bearing the traditional culture of the Vietnamese people.

Water puppet products are often made by hand in accordance with tradition with beautiful lacquer paint.

• Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre (Hanoi)

Hoi An Lanterns

Traditional lanterns are the most famous souvenir of Hoi An. Lanterns have become one of the symbols of Hoi An .

Visitors can come across colorful lanterns with different designs along each street. Coming to Hoi An, tourists often like to buy unique and lovely lanterns as gifts for friends and relatives.

Hand embroidery

Hand embroidery is an art form that has existed for a long time. Over time, the artists have perfected themselves with the best skills to create the most elaborate and meticulous artwork.

Hand-embroidered pictures with hundreds of thousands of multicolored stitches stitched meticulously on a silk cloth and stretched on a frame made of precious wood are of great value.

However, the time it takes to complete a hand embroidery picture is at least a few days depending on the difficulty of the painting you request.

Therefore, if you intend to order a picture as a gift, you need to calculate the time to be reasonable or buy the available pictures to suit your schedule.

Sand picture

Sand painting is an art made from sand, born in Vietnam in 1997. Sand painting is considered one of the national items and is the pride of the Vietnamese nation.

This is also one of the souvenirs that many international visitors love to buy when coming to Vietnam.

To make an art picture of sand, artisans must use transparent, no-patterned glass jars, pour the sand into the jar in layers, and use scoops of sand according to the pattern of the pictures they want to create.

Sand paintings are valuable in that it is a very elaborate and meticulous process of making.

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• Travel Blog

17 Best Vietnam Souvenirs Ideas for Kids and Adults

• Updated: May 22, 2023 Mi NGUYEN in Beautiful Vietnam , Best of Vietnam , Vietnam Travel Tips 16 comments.

Vietnam Souvenirs for travelers – What and where to buy in your trip Vietnam?

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This custom is the national garment for males and females (more for females nowadays) in Vietnam. It’s a tight-fitted long dress worn over long pants. The style and traditional variety may have seen an evolution over the years, but the same is still being used by Vietnamese women.

Vietnamese Ao Dai could be worn by male, female and kids

The Ao Dai we see today is tight-fitting, which brings out and flatters the women’s curves. Nowadays, Ao Dai is only worn by men or women in special occasions such as festivals or formal events such as wedding, graduation… Ao Dai and conical hat are known as the signatures of Vietnam culture. It also have the male style and kid style. Ao Dai is an ideal gift among Vietnam souvenirs for international tourists to remember of this beautiful country.

Where to buy Ao Dai?

In Hanoi, you should purchase the material first on Hang Gai street in the Old Quarter or Cho Hom market. Then you could bring the material to a local tailor to get it made. Some famous local tailors are:

• Ao Dai Minh Duc: 41 Dang Tien Dong, Trung Liet, Dong Da, Hanoi +84 24 6276 2064
• Ao Dai Thanh Mai: 428 Bach Mai, Truong Dinh, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi +84 24 2212 2859
• Van Phuc Silk Trade Village:  Van Phuc, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Luong Van Can Street

In Ho Chi Minh City, you could purchase the fabric at Ben Thanh market, Tan Dinh market, Binh Tay market, An Dong market…  Then bring it to one of these shops to get made:

• Nhat Nguyet (28 Mac Dinh Chi, District 1 +84 28 3823 4985)
• Huong Collection (67 Thu Khoa Huan, District 1 +84 83 603 1137)
• Nice Silk (237 Le Thanh Ton, District 1 +84 90 399 6331)
• ABC AoZai Fabric Shop (19 Ly Chinh Thang Street, District 3 +84 83 848 3823)

Price: The price of Ao Dai are various ranging from $25 to several hundred dollars. The more expensive Ao Dai usually means better fabric quality and tailor skill. The best thing to do is to get a tailor-made one. It will have better quality and will fit you perfectly.

2. Bamboo and wooden products

Bamboo and wooden products as Vietnam souvenirs

These things in Vietnam are all hand woven and available in a large variety of colors. You can buy the same as beautifully carved bamboo hats or salad bowls, trays, baskets and more such items made out of bamboo and wood. Also, bamboo baskets are another specialty made by the Vietnamese people. Apart from being cheaper alternatives, they are also eco-friendly in nature. Bamboo dragonfly is also a very unique souvenir that will make great decoration in your house.

Where to buy:

• Bamboo Village Shop at 108 Xuan Dieu street, Tay Ho district, Hanoi
• Bamboo Shop at 4B Hang Hang Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

Life Impress – An Tuong at  49 Ton That Thiep, District 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam     +84 28 3821 4521

Mekong Creations at  1st Floor, 68 Lê Lợi, District 1, Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam   +84 28 2210 3110

Price: The price of bamboo and wooden product are various depend on the size and complexity of the object.

3. Ceramic and pottery

These are another popular souvenir which you can take home from Vietnam. Ceramic and pottery are a form of Vietnamese art. In the beginning, Vietnamese pottery and ceramics had an influence by Chinese ceramic. But over time, the art also incorporate ceramic features from Cambodia and India as well as developed its own style. The beautiful variety one can find here is simply appealing, but just traveling can be tricky where you must handle the same very carefully. You can easily find here ceramic vases, lacquer vases and more such variety in a plethora of sizes, shapes, and colors. All these ceramic items are handcrafted by trained Vietnamese people who still rely on the traditional methods.

Bat Trang pottery village and Phu Land pottery village are the most famous ones. Bat Trang is the one closest to Hanoi City. The history of this village started since 14 th century. Today, Bat Trang pottery village still produce bowls, dishes and vases for the domestic market and for export. It also welcome tourists to come visiting and experience making their own pottery product.

Places to buy ceramic and pottery product?

Besides purchasing from Bat Trang Pottery  village, you could purchase from many Bat Trang Pottery shops in Hanoi or HCMC.

• No 12, Dang Thuy Tram, Cau Giay, Hanoi
• 393 Kim Nguu, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi
• 21 Nguyen Van Linh, Tan Phong, District 7, HCMC
• 6 Che Lan Vien, Tay Thanh, Tan Phu, HCMC

Read more about Bat Trang Ceramic village:

• Bat Trang village pottery traditional Vietnam

4. Conical Hats

Referred as leaf hat or Non La, these conical hats symbolized Vietnam and appeared on drums as old as 3000 years. People often use it as an umbrella during rains and sun protector during summers as well. Attaching with the agricultural origin of Vietnam, Non La is associated with farmers’ lives on rice paddies as well as boat men and women. Nowadays, they are still worn frequently by farmers or used as an accessory when going to festivals and pagodas.

Non La is a typical and beautiful Vietnam souvenirs to gift yourself, friends and family

It is made with simple natural materials such as palm leaves and bamboo. However, the process of making it is 100% hand-made and take quite a long time (5-6 hours) to finish making one. The conical hats are available in a large variety (some main types are “Non Ba Tam”, “Non Quai Thao”, and they could have different designs on them). Conical hat is a unique Vietnam gift restricted to only this part of the globe.

Where to buy Non La?

• Souvenir shops in Old Quarter, Hanoi
• Dong Xuan Market in Dong Xuan, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Binh Tay Market

Price : conical hat Non La ranges about $5 – $10 each.

5. Do paper and Dong Ho’s folk paintings

Do paper is made from the bark of the Do tree, a wild plant commonly found around local riverbanks. It was popular for many years before the modern paper came. The process of making this paper is very complex, which takes up to three months. But the results are soft, light and durable paper. There are archeologist finding of Do paper that is 800 years old (according to BBC).

Nowadays, Do paper has the use to make Hanoi’s ethnic greetings cards, water color, folk paintings and bamboo-bound notebooks. You could use this type of postcards to send friends back home as a gift from your Vietnam travel.

Where to buy Do Paper?

• Zo Paper Shop no 27, Railroad, 10A Dien Bien Phu Street, Hang Bong
• The Old Quarter Area
• Ngan Thong Craft Supply 64 Le Loi, Ben Nghe, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Price : Do paper cards with embroidered squares, hemp-covered notebooks cost more or less $2, bamboo bound notebooks are from $1.5. They could be found in most book stores in major cities.

Vietnamese coffee is well-known for its preparation (drip coffee) as well as putting condensed milk or egg into very strong coffee (Vietnamese iced milk coffee, Egg coffee). The majority of Vietnamese coffee is Robusta, which carries a stronger amount of caffeine than Arabica and tastes a bit bitter. Combine these two and you will have a unique strong taste and thick brew cup of Vietnamese coffee.

Vietnamese filter, grounded coffee, condensed milk and 10 minutes – Voila, Vietnamese Ca Phe Sua Da

Besides enjoying coffee in Vietnam, you could purchase it as a gift to bring back home. With a Vietnamese coffee filter, some Vietnamese coffee and a recipe (could be found online), you and your friends back home could together enjoy Vietnam famous styles of coffee.

Where to buy coffee bean or ground coffee in Vietnam?

• In the Old quarter area
• Le Van Huu street
• Oriberry Coffee 25 Xuan Dieu
• Highlands Coffee shop opposite the KFC near Hoan Kiem lake
• At any Phuc Long coffee shop

Price : the price of Vietnamese coffee ranged from $5 to $18 for 250 gram (Trung Nguyen coffee).

7. Hand Fan/Paper fan

Practically, paper fan is a familiar item in Vietnamese daily lives. Symbolically, paper fan is considered as one of eight artsy and luxurious objects one could have in their houses, including a quill pen, gourd bowl, an orchid, a Ty Ba (4 string guitar), a chess-set, a feather duster and a sword.

These fans have origins from sturdy bamboo and paper or silk. Their uses are for fanning or decorative in your house. The size of fan are various, it could be hand size or even bigger. You can see Vietnam scenic views or calligraphy drawing on their surfaces. If you want to visit and experience the process of fan making, you should visit Thach That, the most famous paper fan-making village in Vietnam.

Where to buy hand fan/ paper fan in Vietnam?

• Souvenir shops in the Old Quarter Area
• Chang Son, Thach That village, Hanoi, Vietnam

Price : depend on sizes and designs, the price of a fan could range from $3 (hand fan) to $100 (wall-hanging fan).

8. Hand embroidered item

An art passed down from ages, Vietnamese hand embroidery is a tradition with over 700 years old. In Vietnamese culture, traditionally, girls are expected to know how to do hand embroidery to decorate pillowcases, handkerchief, tablecloths… The mastery and explicit craft are bound to amaze you. So, when on a Vietnam trip don’t forget buying at least one embroidered piece from there.

There is a wide range of available hand embroidered products from painting, bed sheets, quilts, pillowcases, bed throw, place mats, napkins, table runners, cosmetic bags, night dresses…This could be the best gift for your mother and wife/girlfriend.

Where to buy hand embroidered item in Vietnam?

• Around the Old Quarter Area
• Sh Vietnam 114A/7 Tran Quoc Toan, Sub-district 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City

Price : $5 to $13 per handkerchief. $2 to $6 per cosmetic bag. $8 per napkin.

9. Guoc Moc

Guoc Moc or wooden clogs are traditional footwear for males and females in Vietnam. Like Ao Dai or Non La (conical hat), Guoc Moc or wooden clogs have been an useful tools close to Vietnamese lives for thousands of year. This form of footwear was appeared and used before leather, fabric or plastic shoes and sandals become common. It also accommodate the hot and humid weather of a tropical country. Females in Vietnam wear these with the traditional Ao Dai to add to their beauty.

Today, wooden clogs have become famous internationally and domestically as a touch of fashion or used in performance art. They are made with diverse designs, colors and materials. The traditional usage of Guoc Moc might have faded away, but you can still buy these at many traditional stores here as lovely Vietnam souvenirs.

Where to buy Guoc Moc in Vietnam?

• In Old Quarter Area
• At Dong Xuan market
• Hai Theu Sai Gon 285/6 Vo Van Tan, Sub-district 05, District 3, Ho Chi Minh city

Price : a pair of Guoc Moc could range from $5 to $15. There are wooden clogs for both males and females.

10. Lacquerware

Lacquerware in Vietnam is distinct in its style of using resin from Son tree. The art links to the French influence in Vietnam and the same is a work-intensive art form. It is a fact that high-quality lacquer products go through 20 stages of development and become craft dishes, bowls, vases, and more in beautiful colors and intricate designs. In the beginning, the ingredient of plastic latex owned its spectacular stickiness, durability and resistance to rain, sun, salt and even humidity.

If you have an interest in visiting the shop and watch the complex process of making lacquerware, you can visit some traditional lacquer villages in Vietnam are Cat Dang village, Ha Thai village, Tuong Binh Hiep… There are some galleries exclusively dedicated to this art that you can admire and purchase Vietnam souvenirs. They areThu Huong Lacquer art, Lacquer Art Tay Ho, Vietnam Fine Arts museum…

Where to buy lacquerware in Vietnam?

• Hoa Lu Craft Shop – 17 Dang Dung – Ba Dinh – Hanoi
• Many shops in Old Quarter Area
• Showroom My Nghe Viet – No 4 (Villa 704), Road 19, An Phu, District 2, HCMC
• Son Mai Hong Dao – 112 Le Duc Tho, Sub-district 6, Go Vap District, HCMC

Price : $2 for a small dish, $4 for large dish, $12 for a set of table mats,…

11. Musical instruments

Among good Vietnam souvenirs, handcrafted musical instruments here are a great option. The range you could choose from are mini T’rung, bamboo flutes or miniature bamboo xylophone. These all are great choices since they are inexpensive, carrying them is very easy and can make that perfect souvenir for all music lovers, reminding you of your Vietnam tours for long.

Where to buy traditional Musical Instrument in Vietnam:

• Hang Non or Hang Manh street in the Old Quarter
• Nguyen Thien Thuat street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Price : the musical instrument souvenir in Vietnam cost from $13 to $45

In the beginning, this was a medical material in Vietnam. Nowadays, it is a popular snack/food. The main ingredients of O Mai are fresh fruit such as plum, lime, peach, star fruit, pineapple… After picking the good ones, they will be spiced, dried and add more spices. The flavors of O Mai are diverse with sweet, sour, salty, spicy…

Edible souvenirs are great idea

If you are wondering of any food to bring back among Vietnam souvenirs, this is a special snack from eastern culture. It will make a great gift since it is easy to carry, high-quality and bring a very different cuisine experience for Westerners.

Where to buy traditional O Mai in Vietnam:

• O Mai Hong Lam –   11 Hang Duong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• O Mai Tien Thinh –  21 Hang Duong, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• O Mai Hong Lam – 82 Ham Nghi RD, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Price : O Mai could be purchased in markets, supermarkets or stores in big cities. Prices are from $2-$5 for 200 grams to $10 for 500 grams.

13. Product or the ethnic minorities

If you are wondering what to buy as Vietnam souvenirs in Sapa, Mai Chau, Moc Chau…, products of the ethnic minorities here could be a wonderful offer. There are more than 50 different ethnic group here in Vietnam with their own distinctive culture, which reflects into their clothing styles. For that reason, the product of ethnic minorities often come with very different woven patterns, colors and designs, which make a unique Vietnam souvenir to gifting. You can find these products not only on mountainous tribed hills but also in major cities of Vietnam.

Silk is a natural protein fiber in form of textiles and one of the best Vietnam souvenirs. They can produce silk by several insects such as silk worms, moth caterpillars, raspy cricket… Here, you can find gorgeous silk scarves for men and women, which are popular souvenir from Vietnam. The silk here is still made on traditional handlooms and the best place to buy this is at the silk village in Hanoi (named as Van Phuc) and Hoian as well. Silk in Vietnam is famous for brilliance and plays a role as an unique souvenir from Vietnam.

Silk dress – Smooth, cool and luxurious

Where to buy silk products in Vietnam?

• On Hang Gai street in the Old Quarter Area

In Ho Chi Minh city:

• At Ben Thanh market
• Toan Thinh Silk –  12 Pham Phu Thu, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam  +84 28 3864 2402

15. Silk painting

Silk paintings in Vietnam are a unique product and depict an iconic art form of the artisans living here since olden times. The mystical, simple and poetic themes used in silk paintings make these particularly attractive Vietnam souvenirs. The paintings make use of the natural silk colors and textiles as the backdrop which is usually colorful. You can find such paintings on wall hangings, scarves and even on the traditional Ao dai (Long dresses).

• (Beautiful Vietnam) Van Phuc Silk Village Hanoi
• Silk village – treasure of Hoi An

16. Snake wine or liquor

In case you want a unique Vietnam souvenir

Snake wine (or snake liquor) is bottles of medicinal rice wine with a dead cobra, scorpion, lizard or sea horse. As a matter of fact, this product raises many opinions relating to animal cruelty and it is completely understandable. However, this is still an aspect of Vietnam culture since Vietnam is a developing country that has superstition here and there. According to the wisdom of the elder, this liquor “makes man strong” (for recreational purposes). It seems bizarre to drink but it will make a great display. This is also one of the most unique Vietnam souvenirs. Just make sure to cover it up good so that it doesn’t leak out all over your suitcase.

Where to buy snake wine/ snake liquor in Vietnam?

• On Trieu Viet Vuong or Mai Hac De or Pho Hue street
• Ben Thanh market

Price : depend on the size of the bottle, it range from $10-$20.

* Important : check with your local tour operator to see if you could bring this item through customs.

Vietnamese tea has been a traditional drink for Vietnamese in household and society in general. Back in the day, tea drinking accompanied aristocratic work or artistic work such as appreciating nature, spending quality time with one another, composing poem, calligraphy…  Nowadays, it is rather a popular drink. Three most popular tea varieties in Vietnam are green tea, plain black tea and scented tea (jasmine, lotus scented tea…). This will make a great gifts as Vietnam souvenirs for your parents or friends. You can find high quality teain stores in big cities.

Where to buy tea in Vietnam?

Vietnamese tea are on purchase in any supermarket.

Price : the average price of tea in Vietnam is $4-$5 per kilogram.

In conclusion

Vietnam, from Ha Noi to Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City is full of diverse markets and an amazing mix and match of culture and tradition. As a result, each place offers a distinct experience which can go along with its souvenirs collection. Therefore, stop by when on your shopping spree to have a chance to admire the exotic and beautiful yet distinct delights that await you as top Vietnamese souvenirs.

• Essential Travel Guides for Family Trips with Kids to Vietnam
• Essential Travel Guides for First-time Travelers to Vietnam
• Some culture and customs you should know when traveling to Vietnam

Start planning your tailor-made Vietnam tour by contacting one of our specialists…

• souvenirs from Vietnam
• Vietnam souvenirs

Hello everyone, I'm Mi NGUYEN - passionate about traveling and experiencing culture and history by visiting attractions. So I like to share my information with everyone about the places I visited. If you have any questions, leave a comment below so I can answer them for you!

Comments(16)

Thanks for sharing such an amazing & informative blog which will surely be a big help to those travelling to the vietnam. There are many amazing places to visit and out of many the beach resorts in the southern part of the country is very popular among the tourists.There one can find many beautiful beach resorts which provides top class hospitality.

We leave next week for a tree week stay in Vietnam (will be on Mekong Delta, Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, SaPa & HoiAN) want especially to purchase silk sleeping bag liners and silk pants (leggins) . Also wish to have a silk dance dress made while in Hoi An. Can you suggest good places to find these and a good taylor shop in Hoi AN?

Dear Madam,

Thank you for your comment. You can purchase silk sleeping bag liners and silk pants at any big supermarket or shopping mall in Vietnam such as Vincom, Big C, Seika Mart, etc.

Also upon your demands, here we suggest you visit these famous tailor shops while in Hoi An:

1. A Dong Silk Address: 40 Le Loi, Hoi An Tel: 0510 3910679

2. Thu Thuy Address: 60 Le Loi, Hoi An

3. Yaly Address: 358 Nguyen Duy Hieu, Hoi An Tel: 0510 3914995

4. Bao Khanh Silk Address: 101 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An Tel: 0510 3861 818

5. B’lan Silk Address: 23 Tran Phu, Hoi An Tel: 0510 386 1866

Regards, Bich Ngoc

I want to buy Vietnamese Flag T-shirts in Hanoi. Can you please suggest some addresses?

Dear Fredricka,

It is easy to find this product at Hanoi Old Quarter street. You can come to Hang Bong, Hang Gai, or Hang Ngang to buy Vietnamese Flag T-shirts.

Regards, Chi

Hi! Many thanks 🙂 Great article. Myanh Hoang

Hello guys, actually I am in hanoi right now, I would like to know where I can buy special postcards (as the ones in the video)? Thanks for the videos, they are very useful! Appreciate your effort!

Hi Harantine, Thank you for your encouragement. I will surely share it with the marketing team here. The Do paper postcards in the video are special items could be found at Zo Paper Shop (no 27, Railroad, 10A Dien Bien Phu Street, Hang Bong). You could also contact the shop by calling 0168 432 9379. Hope you will find unique postcards for your friends and families.

Where can i buy Vietnamese coffee in Hanoi? No 3in1 pls. Thks for all the great ideas!

Hi Blake, There are many Coffee Shop that sell coffee beans or grounded coffee in the Old quarter or on Le Van Huu street. Furthermore Oriberry Coffee 25 Xuan Dieu and Highlands Coffee shop opposite the KFC near Hoan Kiem lake… have very nice coffee with reasonable price as well.

Hello everyone, I would like to buy souvenirs (I think Vietnamese handicraft would be best) back for lots of relatives, friends, co-workers, etc (40 plus people), as such I can’t afford to buy expensive souvenirs. Would you please recommend some Vietnamese souvenirs that you brought back to home country that people seem to enjoy? Any information on how much you paid and which store/market you bought from is greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance

Hi Adam, For relatives and friends, you could buy Do paper postcards ($2 each at Zo Paper Shop no 27, Railroad, 10A Dien Bien Phu Street, Hang Bong) or small pottery cup ($2-4 each in Old Quarter Area). The bamboo dragonflies or small bamboo decorations are nice too as they could put on display on worktable ($1-3 each in Old Quarter Area). For your coworkers, Vietnamese grounded coffee could be a good choice for the whole office ($5-10 per kilogram and you could find it in many coffee shop in the Old Quarter Area).

i regret i didn’t find this article when i was at vietnam…

Hi Fatine, We are so honored to know that you adore Vietnam’s products as well as our company’s work. Don’t worry, next time when you travel to Vietnam, you will know for sure which souvenirs you like and where to find them. Keep checking our blog for more tips on traveling to Vietnam.

Thank you for the detail tips! I will buy the zo postcards and dragonflies. My families would love those! 

Hi Julia, You are absolutely welcome! We are glad that we could help out with souvenir idea. Zo postcards and bamboo dragonflies are unique gifts from Vietnam. Your families will enjoy them for sure.

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• Vietnam Travel Guide

15 Souvenirs From Vietnam That You Can Buy For Gifts

The article mentions souvenirs from Vietnam  that you can buy during your visit to this country.

Vietnamdrive arranges from cheap gifts to high-value ones to make it easy for you to check.

In the introduction of each souvenir below, you will get information, including how it is, where you can buy it, and its price for reference.

Please see the details!

1. Brocade handbags

Brocade products are typical of ethnic minorities in Vietnam, especially those in the northern mountainous region and Central Highlands. So, during your journey to Buon Ma Thuoc, Sapa, or Ha Giang, don’t forget to choose some brocade products, specifically brocade bags, for yourself and your friends.

We chose to introduce brocade bags among the items of this category because of their applicability, as well as the cultural beauty and talent of the maker in every detail of the bag.

Depending on the size, a bag will cost from 50,000 VND to 500,000 VND.

2. Products from woven bamboo

Bamboo has become one of the popular symbols of Vietnam and is associated with peaceful life in rural areas. Villagers use bamboo extensively for work and create many things for housework and decoration.

You can buy a few products from this material as gifts for your home or loved ones. These products include tools to contain food, tea trays, decorative lights, or art models.

Nowadays, it is more difficult to find bamboo products than others because they are not popular in the city. However, you can find it in some rural markets or specialized stores that introduce woven bamboo products, such as in Bao La Village or Dong Ba Market in Hue City.

The price of each product ranges from 50,000 VND to 200,000 VND, depending on whether it is big or small, complex or easy to create.

3. Hoi An Lanterns

Hoi An lanterns contribute to the brilliant beauty of the old town every time they light up. Many tourists like to bring these lovely products back as souvenirs.

Lanterns in Hoi An are made of bamboo and silk surrounding them, which is different from Hue lanterns or industrial lanterns with wooden frames. Therefore, they have their charm and are suitable for decoration.

You can buy them right at the lantern stalls in this ancient town. Or, if you visit the Hoi An night market on Nguyen Hoang Street , you can easily find small shops selling all kinds of colorful lanterns.

The cool thing is that you can fold these lanterns for easier portability.

The price of each item is from 70,000 VND in small size to 250,000 VND in large size.

4. Conical hats

When discovering this beautiful country, you will quickly see  conical hats  imbued with agricultural culture. Many Vietnamese farmers use these hats to cover the sun and rain in the field.

Nowadays, you can see many girls wearing traditional ao dai and conical hats to take pictures at some attractions, especially in Hue City.

These hats become a souvenir with the local breath and agricultural culture, used to wear or decorate houses and restaurants.

Buying a high-quality conical hat at the Dong Ba market in Hue City is easy.

Each one costs an average of 80,000 VND. If you choose a conical hat with pictures and colorful embroidery, it will cost 150,000 VND.

The disadvantage of this souvenir product is that it cannot be folded, and it is quite cumbersome to bring on the plane.

5. Silk scarf

Silk scarves have become a valuable souvenir for women and are suitable for cold days or beach trips.

Silk is produced in many areas in this agricultural country, so it is easy to buy it in local markets or souvenir shops.

In terms of price, you may be surprised to learn that a silk scarf’s price varies greatly from market to store, especially in fashion stores. It can range from 150,000 VND to 1,500,000 VND.

6. Coffee bean

Vietnam is considered the home of coffee production, ranking second in the world in terms of coffee exports. Therefore, coffee products cannot be ignored in the list of gifts from Vietnam for yourself or your loved ones who like to enjoy coffee.

Central Highlands  (including Da Lat and Buon Ma Thuot) is a famous area where coffee is grown. However, coffee beans or pre-ground coffee in bags- featured by the Trung Nguyen brand- can be bought everywhere, from small shops to  supermarkets in Vietnam .

Every 500 grams of good quality coffee beans costs from 80,000 VND. Each bag of 500 grams of powdered coffee costs 70,000 VND.

7. Fish sauce

Fish sauce, an important part of Vietnamese cuisine, is present in almost every meal. From family meals to luxury restaurants, it enhances the flavor of the dishes.

If you are a fan of Vietnamese food, fish sauce can be a gift that you can take away. However, check with the  airline company  about how much liquid you can bring and whether they allow you to bring fish sauce on board.

You can choose from many  famous fish sauce brands in Vietnam at supermarkets or shops specializing in making the fish sauce that you visit in Phu Quoc Island, Phan Thiet City, and Nha Trang City.

The price of fish sauce ranges from 20,000 VND for 700ml- this type is not of high quality. Therefore, we recommend you choose a fish sauce from 80,000 VND for 500ml.

8. Clothing

Clothing is one lovely Vietnamese souvenir that you should put on your reference list. Vietnam specializes in exporting garments to the world market.

There are two types of clothes in Vietnam . The first type is ready-made, which you can buy as a gift for relatives or friends. You can also buy this clothing in most tourist destinations and markets.

The made-to-measure garment is just for you because the tailor-made size is yours. This second type of tailoring service is famous in Hoi An City. In just a few hours, you will have a beautiful dress, vest, or shirt.

The quality of clothing often varies depending on the material and design. If you buy at the market, you should bargain the price to get a reasonable rate.

Each ready-made t-shirt has an average price of 120,000 VND. Some more valuable T-shirts will cost 200,000 VND.

With on-site tailoring, prices vary depending on the material or type. The cost of each shirt will be tailored from 400,000 VND (~19 USD), and men’s and women’s suits are priced from 2,000,000 VND to 4,500,000 VND (80-200 USD).

9. Silver jewelry products

Many specific quarters and villages in Vietnam make jewelry, creating outstanding gold and silver jewelry products for daily needs.

If you are traveling in this country and want to buy jewelry, we do not recommend buying gold items, as gold usually costs more than the world price here.

Instead, choose silver jewelry, which is which is more affordable. A beautiful silver souvenir is perfect for yourself or a loved one, especially for a female friend.

Many shops prominent in Hoi An City will be willing to process customized silver models that cost from a few hundred thousand to a few million dongs.

Silver souvenirs you can choose from include rings, pendants, bracelets, or a custom piece of art.

However, be careful when you purchase some silver products from small shops specializing in something other than silverware; you can get fake or low-quality goods.

10. Pearl Jewelry

With a long coastline, Vietnam has high-value pearl farming areas, such as Ha Long Bay, Nha Trang Bay, and Phu Quoc Island.

When traveling to the places above, you can buy high-quality pearl products for loved females, such as mothers, sisters, or lovers. They include pearl earrings, pendants, bracelets, or necklaces.

Besides the above locations, in high-end jewelry stores in Hanoi or Saigon, and even high-end hotels, you can also buy these pearl products.

A beautiful pearl necklace can cost between 2,000,000 VND and 15,000,000 VND. The price varies depending on the mother-of-pearl, size, and luster of the pearls.

If you buy at tourist places, ask if they have a discount. It would help if you bargain the price when shopping there, but the prices of these souvenirs in hotels are often listed.

11. Artistic ceramics

A wide variety of high-value decorative art ceramics, such as vases and artistic ceramic works, in Hanoi’s Bat Trang Pottery Village will enrich the collection of souvenirs in Vietnam.

The value of artistic ceramics is used to decorate houses, hotels, offices in antique style, or restaurants. So, if you or one relative works in the above field, artistic ceramic works are the right gift choice.

Most ceramic products are a bit bulky, so they may be difficult to carry on your journey through Vietnam. Therefore, you should immediately check with the seller and ask them to send the goods to your house.

Most art ceramic products in Bat Trang are made by hand, and their rate is calculated according to the artistic value of each product. Thus, each item will have a different price. You can expect small products priced from 1,000,000 VND to more complex products costing up to 20,000,000 VND.

>> Please see more of the traditional arts in Vietnam !

If you love gems, including Rubies, Sapphires, Spinel, and Aquamarine, Vietnam is also a place where you can buy a satisfactory souvenir.

You can choose a jewelry product with this kind of stone in Hanoi or Saigon. However, the place where you will be surprised with a market specializing in gems is Luc Yen Gem Market in Yen Bai province, about 250 km northwest of Hanoi.

The Luc Yen Gem Market has about 100 stalls selling gems every day, and it is especially crowded on weekends.

For the rate, each gem ranges from a few million dongs to a billion dongs, meaning from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars.

13. Marble souvenirs

The art of stone carving in Vietnam dates back hundreds of years. Many artisans have produced many beautiful decorative works, providing for the needs of daily life, such as decorating houses, villas, hotels, resorts, pagodas, or churches.

One of the famous places for carving stone items is in Non Nuoc stone village, at the foot of the Marble Mountains in Da Nang City , Vietnam.

You can find various marble items, including Buddha statues, lions, artwork, and tables and chairs.

Depending on its size, each product costs a few million dongs (several hundred dollars) to hundreds of millions of dongs (tens of thousands).

Marble souvenirs are heavy, so most tourists cannot take them on their trips. Therefore, the shop also offers a shipping service, which can help you deliver stone statues worldwide.

14. Lacquer work

Lacquer paintings have become a unique Vietnamese souvenir from this beautiful country. They can also be considered an art form originating from Vietnam, and they have many unique features in terms of composition.

Saigon has a few painting studios specializing in the production of lacquer that you can visit and buy as gifts to decorate your home or office corner.

However, if you want to buy high-quality lacquer artwork, you don’t have to find it in extensive workshops. You can go to private galleries in Hanoi, Hue, or Saigon, where some of the prominent artists in this genre create priceless works.

It is impossible to price artistic lacquer works made by famous artists. Still, hundreds of thousands of dollars are possible. Popular lacquer items can be purchased for 2,000,000 VND (~100 USD).

Please note that lacquer paintings cannot be rolled. So, you have to carry them with you throughout the journey in Vietnam.

15. Art paintings

Paintings are also classified as memorable souvenirs in Vietnam that can be bought for display, gift, or collection.

Many works of art created by  famous painters in Vietnam  have become priceless, costing up to several million dollars. They are sought after by many collectors around the world.

Private galleries in Hanoi, Saigon, or Hue will be where you’ll find some of the most valuable art pieces for your collection.

If you’re not a collector looking for a high-value painting gift, you can also find a few inexpensive paintings, ranging from a few hundred dollars.

These cheap paintings can be found in galleries in Hoi An, Hue, Da Lat, etc. After purchase, most paintings come in plastic or paper tubes for easy portability.

With the types of  souvenirs in Vietnam  presented above, which one will you choose as a gift during your visit here?

Let us know which souvenir impressed you the most!

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Vietnam Shopping Guide: What To Buy in Vietnam

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Traveling to Vietnam and wondering what traditional souvenirs you’ll find for sale during your trip? We lived in Vietnam for almost two years and shopped extensively in stores and markets across the country. We now have a pretty good idea of the best Vietnamese souvenirs to buy for friends and family back home and where you can buy them.

Based on our experience, we have put together this Vietnam shopping guide, including what to buy, average price ranges for popular souvenirs, where to get the best prices, and how to bargain.

If you’re curious about the price or availability of a Vietnamese souvenir that we haven’t included in our list, just add a comment at the end of this article, and we’ll do our best to help you find and buy it. Happy shopping!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

Bargaining in Vietnam

You can get the best prices on most of the souvenirs listed below if you buy them in markets. Market vendors in Vietnam rarely list prices on their products. So you’ll have to ask the owner of the stall for the price of every single thing you consider purchasing.

Not only is this a frustrating way to shop, but it never makes you feel very good about the transaction. It’s common knowledge that locals and foreigners who can speak the language get quoted better prices, while tourists (especially older ones) are given much higher prices.

In Vietnam’s markets, it is both expected and anticipated that you will negotiate the price of souvenirs. As a general rule, I don’t negotiate when prices are marked. And when a shop vendor quotes me a price, I usually counter with a number that is 50% of their offer and hope to land somewhere in the middle.

If negotiations are challenging or the shop owner is particularly stubborn (or if I’m just not sure I actually want the souvenir), I simply say “thank you” and walk away. And if the shop owner yells or runs after you, that’s a clear sign that negotiations can continue. If not, you’ve probably suggested a price that is below the threshold they are willing to go.

Where to Buy Vietnamese Souvenirs

You’ll find many of the souvenirs listed below all over Vietnam, but there are a few cities that sell more specialized goods. If you’re in the market for leather goods or colorful lanterns, you’ll want to shop in Hoi An . There are leather shops all throughout the Old Town and a plethora of lanterns for sale in the daily night market.

Sapa is the best place in Vietnam to buy woven textiles. There are small shops all over that sell textiles. You’ll probably be bombarded by Hmong women asking you to buy their souvenirs every time you leave your hotel. The Sapa Market is also a good place to buy reasonably priced goods.

For paintings, propaganda posters, and matching t-shirts, Hanoi is your best bet. The old quarter is filled with small shops where you’ll certainly find all of the Vietnamese souvenirs listed below. If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, try the Dong Xuan Market or the popular weekend night market.

And finally, if you’re looking to pick up a few knockoffs during your trip, you’ll find a huge selection in the markets of Saigon . The Ben Thanh Market offers knockoffs, souvenirs, and food options. The best prices can be found at Saigon Square and the Russian Market. Read all about shopping in Saigon here !

Shopping in Vietnam: Bargaining Tips + The Best Vietnamese Souvenirs

Leather goods.

If you are planning a stop in Hoi An during your trip to Vietnam, you’ll definitely want to pick up a leather bag or a pair of leather shoes. There are countless quaint little shops throughout Hoi An’s Old Quarter with high-quality leather goods spilling out their front doors. If you have a few days to spend here, you can even get a piece custom-made.

Most of the leather goods that you’ll find in Hoi An are very high quality and will last you for a long time. Be sure to check the zippers and the lining (mesh lining will not hold up as long as it is thin and rips easily) prior to committing to purchasing.

You’ll have to do some serious negotiating to get a good price on your leather souvenir in Hoi An. The price for large duffle bags will usually start in the $100-120 USD range. However, you should be able to get the price down to $80 USD. Smaller bags range from $40-60 USD, but you should be able to knock $5 or $10 off of the price at the very least.

Our favorite shop to purchase leather bags in Hoi An is Tuong Khang , but the owner is a shrewd negotiator, so bring your A-game!

Something Tailored

Another incredibly popular souvenir that tourists love to bring back from Vietnam is a custom-tailored dress, suit, or jacket. You can find tailors all over Vietnam. However, most of the tailors that cater to tourists are concentrated in Hoi An. I say that they “cater to tourists” because they can complete your design in just a few days. I had a dress tailored in Hanoi and it took weeks and several fittings to complete.

We actually found the process of attempting to get something tailored in Hoi An to be quite frustrating. The reason is that they can’t really quote you an accurate price until you’ve selected your design and the fabric. So you spend a lot of work coming up with something you like, and then the price is quite higher than you would expect. It’s not easy to shop around to find the best price unless you’re willing to dedicate a lot of your time and energy to it.

Expect to spend upwards of $100 USD for a custom-tailored dress and $150-200 USD for a custom suit. These prices seem quite high by Vietnamese standards. But, if you consider what you would pay for a custom suit in the US, it’s actually a great deal. You just have to be prepared to drop some dough.

In Hoi An, Ba Ri Tailor has a good reputation for doing high-quality work at a reasonable price. And I had a dress made in Hanoi at Jade Hanoi Tailor . But as previously mentioned, you can’t expect a speedy turnaround.

Designer Knockoffs

You’ll see designer knockoffs in markets all over Vietnam – and they are done so well that you won’t even be able to tell that they aren’t the real thing! Don’t let any market vendors convince you that you’re purchasing an authentic pair of Nikes or a Coach bag – you’re not. The taxes on imports are quite high in Vietnam, so you’ll pay more for a pair of Nikes here than you would in the US. And they are sold in proper stores in malls all over the country, not in night markets.

But knockoffs in Vietnam can actually be pretty high quality! You can find a plethora of knockoff shoes, athletic clothes, luggage, bags, and purses in Ho Chi Minh City at either  Saigon Square  or the  Russian Market . Both are open all day long and in covered buildings. You won’t be forced to shop in the heat.

If you need to purchase an extra piece of luggage to bring all of your Vietnamese treasures home with you, we have found that the knockoff North Face duffle bags are very durable and incredibly cheap! You can get a medium-sized duffle for around $16 USD in Vietnam, whereas the original is closer to $150 on Amazon !

You’ll see lovely “silk” robes sold all over Vietnam. They come in a variety of colors and are usually covered in a floral design. I say “silk” robes because the price per robe is only around 150,000 – 300,000 VND (~$6 – $13 USD). It is not very likely that you’re actually purchasing silk, no matter what they tell you.

The price of one of these robes should start at around 300,000 VND, and you’ll likely be able to negotiate down to 200,000 VND (~$8.50 USD). If you are buying multiple robes for friends back home, you should try to get the price down to 150,000 VND each.

I would definitely recommend picking up a few of these for your friends back home. They are lightweight, pack down small, and one size fits all! Don’t forget to get one for you too! But don’t worry if you forget – similar robes are also available on Amazon .

Hand-Woven Textiles

If you travel around northern Vietnam, you’ll undoubtedly encounter brightly colored hand-woven textiles for sale, especially in the Sapa region. If you travel to Sapa , you’ll be bombarded by Hmong women selling these embroidered bags as soon as you get off the bus. You’ll also see them for sale in many shops in Hanoi. However, they are far less common to find in Ho Chi Minh City , so don’t expect to find them all over Vietnam or you’ll be disappointed.

You can find woven blankets in the Sapa Market in town for $40-60 USD. The small change purses that the Hmong women sell shouldn’t cost you more than a dollar or two for each. And our absolute favorite place to purchase hand-woven bags in Hanoi is Nunal Boutique . It’s a tiny shop with high-quality bags at really reasonable prices.

Straw Purses and Bags

Straw purses and bags are souvenirs that you’ll see all over SE Asia. These come in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from small clutches to large beach bags. And some come with various tassels glued on the side.

You can purchase them for about half the price of similar bags on Amazon . Just remember that they are fragile and aren’t exactly easy to get back home. Don’t make the same mistake I did – be sure that your phone will actually fit inside the bag before you purchase!

Colorful Lanterns

Trust me when I tell you that it will be impossible to walk through the Hoi An night market and leave without purchasing a colorful cloth lantern. Not only are they cheap, but they also pack down relatively small, so they are easy-ish to travel with. Plus, if you buy one (or more!) the stall owners will let you snap as many Instagram-worthy photos of their shop as you want. They can get a little testy if you try to take a photo without making a purchase.

The larger balloons that are shaped like hot air balloons will run you 100,000 – 120,000 VND in the night market (~$4-6 USD). It is a bit less than some of the shops around the Old Quarter. Of course, we would recommend purchasing from photogenic shops so you can leave with a cute photo and a fun Vietnamese souvenir!

Be sure to buy these in Hoi An as they aren’t nearly as common in the shops around Hanoi and are almost impossible to find in Ho Chi Minh City .

Banana Shirts

Cheesy? Yes. Worth it for a silly photo? Absolutely.

Don’t ask us why, but you’ll see banana-themed attire all over Vietnam. And you’ll also see lots of couples wearing coordinating banana outfits while holding hands and wandering around the city. Buttondown shirts, lightweight dresses, and floppy hats are the most common items that you’ll see for sale in the markets of Hanoi, Hoi An, and Saigon.

Definitely negotiate a good price on your new banana outfit. It’ll shrink after one wash and you’ll end up tossing it. None of the banana-themed pieces should run you more than $5 USD.

Silly Print Shirts

Speaking of silly attire, there’s much more of that to choose from in Vietnam. Shirts with sayings like “we were made pho each other” spill out of the shops around the old quarter of Hanoi. Others pay homage to the movie with “good morning Vietnam” written across the front. And still, others that aren’t exactly appropriate say things like “Pho King” to mimic the Burger King logo (say it out loud and you’ll understand).

T-shirts are a great Vietnamese souvenir to buy for friends and family members back home. They are cheap and won’t take up too much room in your suitcase. Just remember that they are Asian sizes meaning that if you normally wear a medium, you’ll likely be an XL in Vietnam. You really shouldn’t have to pay more than $5 USD for a t-shirt in Vietnam.

Paintings always seem like a great souvenir to take home because they can be rolled up and placed in a protective cardboard case. Plus, they make a statement and won’t take up a ton of room in your house. Just remember that on top of the price you pay for the painting, you’ll need to pay significantly more to get it stretched so it can hang on your wall.

Shops selling paintings of various landscapes around Vietnam are common to see in Hanoi and Hoi An. They all sell relatively similar paintings and claim that the more expensive ones are originals while the cheaper ones are copies. That’s really difficult to prove one way or the other. We would recommend just buying whatever speaks to you – original or not.

We bought a large painting of a Vietnamese landscape in Hanoi as a gift for my mother. The price started at $100 USD and I ended up getting him down to $30. That’s probably not very common, but my point is that the starting price will likely be very inflated. You’ll need to drive a hard bargain.

Be sure to watch as your painting is packaged to ensure that the canvas isn’t ripped or creased when it is removed from the wooden frame.

Lacquerware

Painted lacquer boxes and bowls are other common souvenirs that you’ll find all over Vietnam. Square boxes painted with Vietnamese women wearing ao dais (pronounced “ao yai”) are some of the most popular souvenirs in the markets, as are the round bowls that have been painted with vibrantly colored flowers.

These are great souvenirs to take home because they are relatively sturdy. You can fill them with clothes while packing to keep them safe in your suitcase. You’ll find painted lacquer bowls and boxes for sale in  Ben Thanh Market  in Ho Chi Minh City and at the night market in Hoi An.

The prices for lacquerware vary widely depending on the type and size. But you should never pay more than $20 USD for each piece. The medium-sized bowls should be around 250,000 (~$10.75 USD). As with everything you buy, you’ll get a better price if you purchase more items from one vendor.

Embroidered Wall Hangings

If you take the bus from Hanoi to Sapa or from Hanoi to Halong Bay , you’ll probably end up stopping for a “bathroom break” at a massive souvenir shop. And that souvenir shop will probably have people sitting at tables, hand-embroidering wall hangings. And if you take a few minutes to watch, you’ll find that their work is truly incredible.

If you want to buy one of these embroidered wall hangings, it’ll cost you a few hundred dollars. And you won’t find any that are this large or intricate in any night markets in any of the cities. There is one in Saigon called XQ Sai Gon , but it’s the only one we’ve encountered outside of the bus stop souvenir shops.

However, you will find smaller and simpler wall hangings in the various souvenir shops and markets in every city in Vietnam. Expect to pay $12-15 USD for a simple 8×10 wall hanging.

Conical Hats

Conical hats (known as nón lá or leaf hats in Vietnam) aren’t just for tourists. You’ll actually see many Vietnamese people wearing them all over the country to keep the sun off their faces and neck. These conical hats are very cheap to buy and good to wear for protection while you’re traveling in Vietnam. But they aren’t exactly practical to take home with you as a souvenir.

It’s much easier to leave yours in Vietnam when you head home and then buy one on Amazon if you find that you can’t live without it.

A simple woven conical hat should cost around 30,000 – 50,000 VND (~$1.25 – $2 USD). The price will go up from there if you want a more elaborate one that has been hand-painted.

Propaganda Posters

Propaganda posters were used during the war to keep the Vietnamese people in high spirits. The images are colorful and drawn in such a way that makes them quite unique to Vietnam. You’ll see more of these for sale all over the Old Quarter in Hanoi, but there are a few places to purchase in Saigon as well.

Saigon Kitsch is a shop that sells propaganda posters and a host of other souvenirs. You can also find t-shirts depicting the propaganda images in the shops that face the street around the Ben Thanh Market. We purchased our posters from a very friendly woman running a small, nameless shop on Bui Vien Street.

Phin Coffee Filters

If you enjoy coffee and choose to visit some of the quaint coffee shops in Saigon , you’ll likely be served at least one cup in a phin coffee filter. These silver filters are filled with coffee grounds and hot water and then placed directly over an empty cup. As the coffee brews, it slowly drips down into the cup.

If you’re like most foreigners, after enjoying a cup of coffee served this way, you’ll think, “this is so easy! I must do this when I get back home!” Lucky for you, they are available to purchase in Ben Thanh Market for about 50,000 VND (~$2 USD) each.

Pop-up Greeting Cards

You’ll see women selling these creative little pop-up cards all over Vietnam. They are simple on the outside, but when you open the card, an intricate paper design springs to life! You shouldn’t pay more than 30,000 – 50,000 VND per card, depending on the size. You’ll find them in all of the day and night markets in every city around Vietnam.

Have a wonderful time shopping in Vietnam!

Planning a trip to Vietnam? Check out our favorite guides and resources!

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Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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20 Best Travel Gifts & Souvenirs in Vietnam to Buy for Your Loved Ones

Buying a souvenir when traveling is a good way to remember your great trip. Also, you can gift it to your loved ones to show how they are in your mind everywhere you go. Furthermore, shopping is sometimes a way to immerse yourself in the local culture. When coming to Vietnam , you can find a lot of travel gifts and souvenirs that stick with the country’s culture and traditions.

There is a wide range of categories for travel gifts and souvenirs in Vietnam to buy, including decorations and food. These types of products have their own charms that are really worth your purchase. Among them, there are the 20 best products that go with the top value of the country. Let’s read through this article, and have some ideas for your best travel gifts and souvenirs in Vietnam that are worth every penny!

1. Ao Dai – Vietnam’s National Costume

Ao Dai is the national costume of Vietnam. Of course, it’s so famous that its name is one of the few Vietnamese words added in the English-language dictionary. It is a combination of elegant tight dress and stylish trousers. Ao dai is a highlight in Vietnamese fashion, following both traditional and temporary styles, symbolizing the feminine beauty of Vietnam.

Since Ao Dai is available at many stores throughout the country, you can easily find one that is right for you or as a gift. Normally, this outfit is already ready-to-buy. Yet, if you want to prioritize the material and style, you can buy the fabric first and then order it at some tailors. However, it will certainly be more expensive.

Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City are the 4 most famous places for Ao Dai. Ao Dai is suitable for all women of all ages. Surely, it will be an interesting gift for your girlfriend, wife, mother, or grandmother. The price of a set of Ao Dai may vary, depending on different designs, materials, quality, and colors.

2. Non La (Palm-leaf Conical Hat) – The Symbol of Vietnam’s Agriculture

Non La, or palm-leaf conical hat, has long been a symbol of Vietnam. Its origin is from a legend related to Vietnam’s rice-growing culture. The conical hat is made of palm leaves in the shape of a round cone. Surely, it is one of the most ideal travel gifts in Vietnam to buy on your trip.

This Non La is very versatile as it can be used in all weather conditions to make the user feel more comfortable. In addition, today, there are many types, diverse in style, along with sizes and quantities, making it easier for you to choose.

Particularly, Non La is best suited for people who enjoy outdoor activities like gardening. You can find this product at most souvenir shops across the country for a cheap price.

3. Silk – High-class and Glamorous Fashion Material

Silk was originally considered a luxury material, worn by royalty and the high class. In addition, the Ao Dai, which is a traditional costume, is often handmade with silk. Nowadays, Vietnamese designers use it to create high-fashion items that will appear in famous fashion shows.

Although Italian, Chinese, and Japanese silk has a good reputation, Vietnamese silk also has its own special charm in the region. Absolutely, it is one of the best and most meaningful items to buy in Vietnam.

When it comes to Vietnamese silk, you can easily reach some traditional villages where silk is still produced by hand and from there yield the best textiles.

However, since silk is widely sold in Vietnam, you can also find it in any silk market or shop, especially in Hang Gai Street of Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoi An Ancient Town, and Ho Chi Minh City. Usually, these shops sell silk fabrics, but sometimes other silk items such as scarves, bags, ties, etc. are available.

4. Pottery – An Attractive and Handcrafted Souvenir

Pottery is another ideal travel gift in Vietnam that you can take home. There is a wide range of ceramic products, including vases, bowls, plates, cups, etc., which are very attractive and beautiful in different colors and patterns. Especially, these ceramic products are handmade based on traditional methods.

The most well-known destination where you can find these types of products is Bat Trang Pottery Village. Make sure you visit this place when traveling to Hanoi .

5. Products from Bamboo, Coconut, and Wood – Eco-friendly Souvenirs

In most tourist destinations across Vietnam, you can easily find bamboo and wooden products as travel gifts & souvenirs to buy. Especially, they are mostly handcrafted and available in a wide range of designs and colors.

Typical bamboo items are baskets, bowls, straws, hats, decorations, chopsticks, or even furniture. Wood products are quite similar. These kinds of products are not only good in price but also friendly to the environment. Certainly, they are smart choices as gifts for your family.

By the way, there is a good business that sells coconut-made products on Amazon. If you are a fan of environmental-friendly products, you may want to check it out. Make a try, and buy some in Vietnam the next time you travel.

6. Handmade Embroidery – A Special Gift for Your Loved Ones

Vietnam is famous for the art of embroidery. Products are varied such as embroidered bags, clothes, nightgowns, scarves, blankets, tablecloths, wallets, bed sheets, pillowcases, etc. You can buy many types of products as there are wide selection, quality, and price when traveling to Hanoi.

Besides that, if you can visit the villages in Sapa , you can find the locals produce handmade embroideries. You can buy them directly at their houses or at the local markets. The best items are in the best designs on exceptional cotton and linen.

Anyone who appreciates hard work and culture is sure to enjoy these beautiful handmade gifts. Surely, this is an ideal gift for culture enthusiasts or simply the beloved people in your life.

7. Ethnic Handicraft Products – Vietnam’s National Culture

Actually, ethnic handicrafts are an art form including products produced by minority groups living in Vietnam. On top of that, each group has its own distinct culture, which is described in its patterns and clothing styles. The most popular items are textiles, paintings, clothing items, scarves, bags, and even furniture. They are all unique and impressive travel gifts in Vietnam to buy.

Usually, these products are widely sold on most websites. Nevertheless, if you want to buy genuine, look for some stores that offer real handcrafted items, although they can be more expensive. If you have a chance to travel to the Northern region or the Central Highlands region, you can observe the production process and then buy these products directly. Travel, basically, is experience.

8. Vietnamese Paintings – Storytellers About Vietnamese Culture

Vietnamese painting is a unique product. It depicts each moment of Vietnam in an iconic artistic way. Usually, there are many paint materials such as silk, sand, oil, etc., each with its own characteristics and beauty.

Besides, these paintings are very rich in color, image, and meaning. Hanging these pictures on the wall is one of the impressive ways to decorate your home.

In Vietnam, it is not difficult to find a shop that sells these paintings as they are sold at many souvenir shops and bookstores. However, the price can be quite high compared to other types of souvenirs, but it is worth collecting.

9. Vietnamese Musical Instruments – Traditional and Unique Musical Instruments

Musical instruments are also a favorite souvenir in Vietnam because of their sweet melodies and other characteristics of Vietnamese music. Among them, bamboo flute, erhu,… are the most popular choices. They are sometimes handmade and easy to handle. Additionally, they are widely used and it is not difficult to find a musical instrument store in Vietnam. However, you should check the tools carefully when buying because there are many products that are not as good as they seem.

10. Lacquer Paintings – Vietnam’s Unique Works of Art

In fact, Vietnam has a long tradition of lacquer work. Indeed, Vietnam’s production of lacquerware has been a unique art form for many years. Lacquer products in Vietnam include jewelry boxes, scrapbooking, dishes, vases, jars, etc. They all have distinctive designs and quality, compared to products from other Asian countries.

Normally, it takes about 20 stages and 100 days to create high-quality lacquer products, followed by the painstaking work of lacquer manufacturers. There are a number of these art galleries where you can find really great collections.

These products are best suited for some senior family members, as well as your friends. Although the art of lacquer is very developed in Hue, Ho, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City, you can find this souvenir at many tourist sites. However, be careful when buying lacquerware as it can be of low quality and condition.

11. Calligraphy – Meaningful and Special Word Art

Vietnamese calligraphy, for a long time, has become a meaningful custom in daily life, as well as on some special occasions. Calligraphy refers to works that use scripts, including both original Chinese and Latin characters, in different styles.

During the tet holiday, giving this form of writing is said to bring happiness and wealth to families. In addition, you can find the art of calligraphy performed at some famous festivals.

Calligraphy is an integral part of Vietnamese culture. This type of artwork is printed and sold on many street sidewalks or in bookstores. Particularly, Hue and Hanoi are the two popular places for calligraphy.

12. Vietnam Books – Essentials to Buy in Vietnam for Knowledgeable Travelers

Vietnam is well-known for its historical and architectural heritage. For example, some of them are the Hue Citadel, the famous 7 Imperial Tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty, the Temple of Literature Hanoi , etc. In order to enjoy your visit to these places, you may need a book, or just a brochure to acknowledge the history and culture, along with other interesting information about them.

These products are sold in several corners of each destination, including not only the Vietnamese version but also the English version. Traveling is more beautiful when you get cultural knowledge on your own holiday. Moreover, those books will also be your memorial and valuable collection after you finish your trip to Vietnam .

13. Lantern – Colorful Symbol of Luck, Health, and Happiness

Lanterns are a special product of Hoi An Ancient Town . Once traveling there, you will be deeply impressed by the splendor of the lanterns that hang in front of almost every house to bring good luck, health, and happiness.

Hoi An lantern is special for its design and durability. Usually, they are made of brocade or silk. They come in many different shapes such as circles, diamonds, etc.

It is better to buy lanterns at night because you will be able to check how they are when lit. Lanterns are really suitable for decorating your home. You can buy them easily in Hoi An Ancient Town. Also, there are many stores available in other cities like Hue and Hanoi. Prices may vary due to differences in size, color, and material.

14. Fish Sauce – Boosting the Taste in Vietnamese Cuisine

Fish sauce, a fermented condiment from salted fish, is a familiar and staple condiment in Vietnamese cuisine. In Vietnam, you can easily buy fish sauce in any coastal area, but Phu Quoc has been known for its high-quality sauce for a long time. Therefore, Phu Quoc fish sauce can cost more than one in other regions.

However, carrying around this sauce can lead to certain problems. You should be careful because if there is a leak, your luggage will have an interesting smell. In addition, this type of liquid may not be allowed on board. Therefore, your best bet is to buy products that have been exported to your country. Then, you can show your friends or family how great it is as when you tasted it in Vietnam’s meals.

15. O Mai (Salted or Sugared Dry Apricot) – A Hanoians’ Special Gift

O Mai is a specialty of Hanoi, which is dried fruit with sugar or salt, mixed with other spices to achieve a harmonious taste. The most common fruits used to make salted dry apricots are apricots, plums, peaches, kumquats, and mangoes.

For many Hanoians, O Mai is not only a kind of snack, but it is also a gift on some special occasions. Its flavor is best when served with a cup of lotus tea.

This is the best gift for those who enjoy dried fruit and want to have enjoyable tea sessions. There are many brands of O Mai in Vietnam, but we highly recommend Hong Lam and Tien Thinh, the most famous and popular ones. These stores are available in every area of ​​Hanoi and prices can vary, based on different fruits, as well as brands.

16. Tea – The Pure and Fresh Beverage of Vietnam

Tea is one of the favorite drinks of Vietnamese people of all ages. Yes, it does play an important role in Vietnamese culture. This drink always brings a sense of peace to everyone when taking a sip, even when they are in their busiest time.

Usually, there are 3 main types of tea: green tea, black tea, and scented tea. While young people like scented teas, green and black teas are prized because people believe they offer a unique and pure taste, combining both sweetness and bitterness.

Imagine having a cup of tea while talking with friends on a dreary day, or just serving yourself a pot of tea, along with some cookies and favorite music can certainly make your day more enjoyable. In Vietnam, you can buy tea at many shops and markets, which can be easily found anywhere in the country.

17. Vietnamese Coffee – The Special Travel Gifts from the Highlands of Vietnam

If you are a coffee fan, make sure you come to the coffee shops to try and buy Vietnamese coffee beans. In fact, Vietnam has long been renowned as one of the world’s largest coffee exporters, and its coffee sets itself apart from any other coffee in the world. And as you may know, Buon Ma Thuot’s coffee, which is produced in the Highland region, is such a famous product in the world coffee market!

You can find coffee anywhere in the country, from local markets, coffee shops, shopping malls to coffee companies.

18. Cốm Xanh (Green Rice Flakes) – A Little Rustic of Vietnam

Cốm Xanh is a rustic specialty of Vietnam, especially Hanoi. It is a type of glutinous rice, which is freshly harvested and then baked to obtain its delicate flavor. Usually, they are wrapped in banana leaves, which give this particular green color. People enjoy Cốm Xanh in different ways. You can eat it right away or use it to make other related dishes such as ice cream, soup, etc.

Vong village, located on the outskirts of Hanoi, is the most famous producer of Cốm Xanh. Indeed, Cốm Xanh from Vong village has a special place in the hearts of Vietnamese people. Traveling to Hanoi in autumn, you can easily find this super fresh dish sold by vendors on many streets in Hanoi because this is the season of Cốm Xanh.

Hey, in case you want to try green rice flakes right away before you come to Vietnam to buy, I found a store on Amazon where you can order them to try.

19. Coconut Candy – A Sweet Treat from the South of Vietnam

Coming from Ben Tre province, the land of coconuts, coconut candy is a sweet specialty. Furthermore, coconut candy has been brought to another level with many flavors like original, durian, or chocolate. What makes this candy special and on the list of travel gifts to buy in Vietnam is not only its great taste but also the thin edible rice shell around it.

Certainly, this is a great gift for your friends and family members or those who like to eat sweets.

20. Phu Quoc’s Pepper – The Great King of Spices

For a long time, pepper has been considered the family’s king of spices. In Vietnam, especially in Phu Quoc island, where this spice is produced on a large scale, pepper is a good choice, a familiar product for visitors to bring home.

Indeed, Phu Quoc black pepper is a well-known brand for its quality. There are 3 types of pepper there, including black, white, and red pepper. In addition, this spice is quite cheap and easy to find at stores around the island. Hence, if you love the flavor of peppers in your meals, don’t forget to buy these when exploring Phu Quoc island .

Vietnam will never disappoint visitors with its beauty. Once you visit Vietnam, you will have the opportunity to live in its wonderful cultural diversity and mixed traditions. Each region, each destination has its own charm. Hence, go explore them and get yourself memorable things to take home. Enjoy, and have a great trip to Vietnam!

Note: This post contains affiliate links from which I can earn commissions if you use services or buy products from the blog’s partners. If you love the blog, please use the services or buy the products. In that way, you give me support for the blog’s maintenance and development. I appreciate it a lot and thank you for that!

PIN NOW TO SAVE YOUR LIST OF IDEAL TRAVEL GIFTS IN VIETNAM TO BUY!

Khoi Nguyen

Khoi Nguyen builds The Broad Life with a desire to inspire people go exploring the world and live a more interesting, experience, and adventurous life. This blog shares the stories, pictures, and experiences at destinations where he has traveled to.

22 Comments

I love Vietnams tea, it is too much aromatic and delicious. I think it would be the best gift ever

Yeah, Vietnam’s tea is one of the best in the world. So much enjoyment while having a cup of tea in the day.

Great gift ideas, thank you for sharing.

I love these ideas! I’m a big fan of bringing home culturally significant souvenirs to really bring the travel experience home with me.

Me too. I love how the souvenirs can bring to me beautiful memories of the trips I experienced.

Bryan Carey

I’m not sure which I would choose. The musical instruments look cool, but I think I would go with one of the works of art.

You have one of the best choices.

TweenselMom (@TweenselMom)

I’ll definitely take note of these souvenirs! And I’d like to try the coconut candy myself 🙂

You will love the coconut candy when after trying it. It’s truly good!

briannemanzb

I love Vietnamese coffee. I would buy it for a souvenir and make it for my friends and family.

Surely that’s a great gift from Vietnam for your friends and family. Good choice!

Fransic verso

These look so cool. I will write these down when I can go to Vietnam, I will try to get them for someone.

These will be the best gifts you buy for friends and family.

MyYellowApron

This is supremely informational!! Saving this for reference.

Enjoy! And thanks for your comment!

MELANIE EDJOURIAN

These sound like some really great travel gift ideas. It’s great to get items specific for an area where you are gifting travel enthusiasts.

Absolutely! Have a great trip to Vietnam!

Knycx Journeying

Great choices and I am a fan of coffee. More, they have a lot of artsy posters in Hanoi’s old quarter that are great for decorations at home! – Knycx Journeying

Seems like you have traveled to Hanoi, haven’t you? Did you pick any gifts for friends and family, or have a souvenir for yourself?

Archana Singh

I love all the travel souvenirs from Vietnam. In fact I do have a few of them. Though I would like to own a Ao Dai.

Wow, I’m sure you had a great collection of items from Vietnam.

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10 Best Vietnamese Souvenirs to Bring Home

By Lauren Breedlove

Last updated: July 17th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

Vietnam is a destination rich in cultural and culinary experiences as well as a diverse landscape to explore, from beaches to emerald paddy fields and alluring ancient cities. While traveling through this exotic country, you’ll have the opportunity to unearth some incredible souvenirs to bring back home as a token of your time spent in southeast Asia. Each region offers fantastic shopping, with items that appeal to every interest.

From handmade artisan goods and textiles to jewelry, intricate lanterns, and culinary delights, you’ll find that there’s an extraordinary variety of things to buy. Keep an eye out for these top Vietnam souvenirs during your travels.

Coffee Beans

Purchase one of the culinary products that Vietnam is known for . The country is the second biggest coffee producer in the world, and the legacy of the French rule in the late 19th century is superb coffee shops and patisseries all over the country.

The locally grown Robusta bean gives Vietnamese coffee a distinct taste, while the slow drip method of brewing brings out the flavor. While traveling through the country, make sure to order the popular “ca phe sua da”, a mix of slow-roasted espresso and sweet condensed milk to offset the bitterness, served either hot or iced.

Binh Tay Market, Ho Chi Minh

Buying Vietnamese coffee beans and their specialized “phin” filter as a souvenir is a fantastic choice for coffee lovers looking to bring home a taste of the country’s culture. This metal filter blends the brewing methods of the French press and pour-over.

You’ll find freshly ground coffee beans or whole beans for sale at almost any market, as well as in specialty shops and grocery stores. Keep an eye out for coffee varieties at Ho Chi Minh’s Binh Tay Market, An Cafe in Nha Trang , and the Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, to name a few. A couple of the most well-loved brands are Trung Nguyen Coffee and Highland Coffee.

Luxurious silk is one of the most popular items to buy in Vietnam. An important commodity throughout history, silk is produced here and woven into clothing, scarves, paintings, interior furnishings, tablecloths, and much more. Two of the best-known silk-weaving villages are Nha Xa, near Hanoi , and Ma Chau in the Quang Nam province.

Because silk is so popular, you’ll have no shortage of opportunities to find and purchase either bolts of fabric in vibrant colors or ready-made goods, including dresses and lanterns. Venture to Hanoi’s Old Quarter to wander the famous “Hang Gai Street”, or “Silk Street.”  Unearth amazing silk finds and beautiful embroidery at family-run shops selling clothing, scarves, ties, tapestries, and more.

In enchanting Hoi An, the Cloth Market and the Hoi An Silk Village are both great choices when shopping for silk and you’ll be able to watch artisans practicing the ancient methods of silk weaving, too.

Read: 15 Inspiring Things to Do in Vietnam  

Ceramics & Pottery

Traditional pottery is one of the best things to buy in Vietnam. The country’s ties to ceramics date right back to the Bronze Age. More recently, ceramic making has been influenced by Chinese and French styles.

Perhaps one of the best-known types is the white and blue, called “Bleu de Hué” which rose in popularity during the Nguyen Dynasty in the early 20th century. Although pieces can be found throughout Vietnam, the village of Bat Trang, just outside of Hanoi, is well known for producing this particular style.

These gorgeous pieces of art can be found in most destinations in Vietnam, but the smaller villages known for ceramic crafting are the ideal place to shop, and you’ll help support the local communities, too.

One of the oldest pottery villages along the Red River Delta is Phu Lang, located just outside of Hanoi. A visit here offers a glimpse into the art of pottery making in Vietnam.

Most of the pottery products found in Phu Lang are adorned with a brown glaze and feature scenes such as landscape and sacred animals, among them elephants and horses. Household pots, jars, and vases available all make the perfect hand-crafted souvenir.

Jewelry is always an evocative memory of distant travels. Discover earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings at local markets and streetside souvenir stalls. Woven bracelets are one of the more popular jewelry items to take home.

If it’s more high-end jewelry that you’re after, shops such as Hoàng Gia Pearl in Ho Chi Minh , and Lac Viet in Hoi An are worth a stop. The northern city of Hanoi is known for producing beautiful silver and gold pieces, which can be purchased in the Old Quarter along Hang Bac Street.

Read: Best Things to Do in Hanoi

Lacquerware

For Vietnam souvenirs with a distinctive look, consider purchasing a lacquerware item. These gorgeous pieces of art range from bowls to vases, jewelry boxes, and paintings.

The method of creating lacquerware started in the 1930s in Hanoi, and consists of a lengthy process of mosaic designs, engravings, and intricate gold leaf patterns, sealed under tree sap resin, which is applied in layers to create a high gloss.

While traveling through Vietnam, you’ll have many opportunities to purchase a piece of lacquerware to bring home, as well as admiring display items. Galleries such as the Vietnam Fine Arts Museum in Hanoi exhibit this amazing form of art, including some ancient pieces.

Also in Hanoi, the An Dong Craft Market and Hang Bac Street are popular shopping destinations where you can uncover stunning lacquerware dishes and other meticulously designed items. In Hue , a well-known destination for quality lacquerware products and souvenirs, head for Dong Ba Lacquerware.

Traditional Hat (Nón Lá)

The Nón Lá conical hat is one of Vietnam’s iconic sights. The hat derived from a traditional legend about a goddess who descended from the skies during a torrential storm, wearing a hat so large it chased away the clouds.

Over time, it has evolved into an essential piece of headgear for farmers and outdoor laborers, where protection from the hot sun is necessary. In addition, the hat shields from the short, sharp rain showers of the tropics and in markets, can double up as a basket of sorts.

The Nón Lá hats are also an important piece in authentic costumes for performances and cultural festivals or events. There are more than 50 types of conical hats used in Vietnam today, usually made from palm leaves and bamboo.

Visit any market or souvenir shop in Vietnam and you’re almost guaranteed to come across the Nón Lá hats. In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll have luck at the Binh Thanh Market and in Hanoi, the Dong Xuan Market and Old Quarter will have a wide array of conical hats to choose from.

Read: Best Places to Visit in Southeast Asia  

Vietnamese Musical Instruments

Vietnamese musical instrument

Music is a key feature of Vietnamese culture, and popular instruments like flutes, xylophones, and violins can make a great gift or souvenir. You don’t have to be a virtuoso to appreciate the cultural significance of these items, although the type of instrument you choose may depend on the available space in your carry-on.

Perhaps the most popular item is a bamboo flute, sau truc , a fantastic choice both for its packable size, as well as its spiritual and cultural significance. The 10-hole flute was typically played by farmers taking a rest from their work day in the countryside.

Another intriguing instrument found in Vietnam is the bamboo t’rung , traditionally used in folk music and performed anywhere from family parties to village festivals. These are available to purchase in a smaller, more portable size as a souvenir.

The Vietnamese violin, dan nhi , is a key instrument in the country’s arts and culture scene as well and can be heard in traditional orchestra performances. It produces a distinct sound more similar to that of a human singer than a conventional violin.

Any of these Vietnamese instruments can be purchased at music stores in major cities, including Nguyen Du Street and Cách Mạng Tháng 8 Streets in Ho Chi Minh City, and Hang Manh Street in Hanoi.

Vietnamese lanterns aren’t just beautiful to look at; they’re also a symbol of good fortune, love, and happiness. These authentic lanterns are handcrafted from silk and bamboo, with intricate patterns and vibrant colors.

One of the best places to visit in Vietnam , the Old Town of Hoi An is a mecca for lantern shopping and is famous for its nighttime display of colorful stalls filled with these beautiful lights. Hoi An’s night market is a fantastic spot to find the perfect lantern. Or visit one of the small shops on Tran Phu Street, such as Thuy Tam or Ong Canh.

Lanterns are handwoven and painted with delicate patterns or floral motifs. Each color has its own meaning; red is for luck and love, yellow for wealth and prosperity, blue for hope, purple for nostalgia, and less cheerily, green for jealousy. Most fold up so are easy to transport home.

Read: Best Beaches in Southeast Asia  

Tailored Clothing

Tailored clothing

Having an outfit tailor-made is a fine way of creating an authentic memory of your time in Vietnam. Not only will you have something to take home with you, but you will also have a unique experience.

The city of Hoi An has some of the most skilled tailors in southeast Asia. The clue is to come prepared. Bring items of clothing from home that you’d like replicated, or even just photos of something you want made to fit.

From selecting the fabric and getting measured to the final fitting is astonishingly quick, whether you’re after a suit, dress, skirt, or jacket. The Old Quarter’s Hang Gai Street is lined with tailors’ shops. Yaly Couture is a favorite within Hoi An for high-quality pieces.

Whether you’ve mastered the art of eating with chopsticks during your time in Vietnam or still need a bit of practice, these eating utensils are a popular souvenir to bring home.

Vietnam has a fresh, exciting cuisine, with world-renowned street food at its heart. A set of chopsticks is one of the most practical souvenirs to remind you of all the amazing dishes you tried during your Vietnam adventure, too.

Commonly made from bamboo, wood or coconut palm, chopsticks are on sale in any souvenir shop or street market.

Read: Best Food in Vietnam

Explore the exciting country of Vietnam and discover delicious cuisine, bustling markets, arts and culture, and historic villages. A cruise is a fantastic way to shop for authentic Vietnam souvenirs as a memory of your unforgettable vacation in southeast Asia. Browse cruises to Vietnam on our website and plan your trip today.

Lauren Breedlove

Lauren Breedlove is a freelance writer, travel photographer, and the girl behind girlwanderlist.com, a list-based travel blog. She thrives on random adventures, off-beat destinations, and grilled cheese. Follow all her exploits on Instagram, @girlwanderlist.

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Top 11 Souvenirs in Vietnam

Photo: Shutterstock

Are you looking for Vietnam souvenirs?

Everybody loves to bring something home that remembers them of the country they visited. Vietnam is no exception since there’re so many beautiful handicrafts and traditional things that you can bring back home as souvenirs.

Here’s the list of the top 11 things to buy in Vietnam:

Table of Contents

Conical Hat / Straw Hat

Non La is a circular cone hat made out of bamboo cataphylls and is a souvenir you must bring back home. The hat is today a cultural symbol for the country where the style can vary from region to region. This hat is worn by the locals all year round, while it protects them from the rain and it also provides shade and protection from the sun. 

Ao Dai – Vietnamese Traditional Dress

The Ao Dai is a long dress and is worn by the Vietnamese women in Vietnam. This long dress has been a national costume in the country since the 18th century. The dress comes in three different styles and can be specially handmade for you at one of Vietnam’s specialized Ao Dai tailors. 

Silk – One of my favorite Vietnam souvenirs

If you’re a fan of silk fabrics, then you’re going to love Vietnam. Here you can buy scarfs, silk painting and suits or clothes with the best quality. In the country you will find silk fabrics with beautiful patterns, in different colors and sizes – all made on traditional handlooms.

One of the best places to buy silk is in Hoi An and also in Van Phuc (a silk village near Hanoi). 

Handmade Vietnamese embroidery

Embroidery is an art that has been passed down from ages in Vietnam. Here they often use Chinese techniques, and to become an embroidery master it can take 8 to 10 years. If you ever visit Sa Pa , you can buy great embroidered clothes, scarfs, bags and purses from the different villages of the valley.

In Sa Pa, you can also see how they handmade embroidery by the main square during the evening market!

Guoc Moc is a traditional wooden clogs that are used by both males and females in Vietnam. Years ago, the women of Vietnam used to wear these together clogs together with the traditional Ao Dai dress. Today, the clogs are not that popular among the locals – but they can still be found in many stores around the country. 

Musical Instruments

The handmade musical instruments are also a favorite souvenir in Vietnam. Here you can buy instruments like; bamboo flutes and mini t’rungs. These instruments make sweet tones and will remember you of Vietnam every time you’re making music.

The price for t’rung’s usually ranging from VND 300,000 to VND 1,000,000 and a simple bamboo flute cost around VND 10,000. 

The hand fans in Vietnam is usually made of paper and a bamboo frame. This is one of the souvenirs that are frequently used by the locals to cool off. These hand fans have played a major role in the country’s rich culture, and can today be seen in traditional Vietnamese dance.

You can find these hand fans made of silk paper all around the country since it’s one of the best souvenirs in Vietnam. 

Sand Paintings

One of the unique and special souvenirs in the country is the sand paintings. These are the pride of the Vietnamese people and has been made since 1997. They make these painting by pouring sand into a clear cup and use a spoon to paint the picture. It takes quite a long time to finish these pictures since it takes a lot of focus and talent. 

One of the unique and best souvenirs in Vietnam to bring home as a gift to someone you love!

Bamboo Dragonfly

One souvenir that you only can find in Vietnam is the bamboo dragonfly. This is a fun and unique gift to give to a friend or family member. The cool thing about these dragonflies is that they stand by its mouth on any surface, even on your finger. 

Vietnamese Paintings

Oh wow, where should I start? The Vietnamese paintings are incredible throughout the country. The colors, motives, and art techniques are just amazing. Here you can buy silk paintings, rice paintings, and folk woodcut paintings.

Most of the paintings are very colorful and tell you stories about famous Vietnamese people or famous sights in the country!

Pop-up Paper Cards

The pop-up cards are so incredibly impressive and beautiful that it’s a must to buy one of these souvenirs in Vietnam. This is a typical Hanoian art and can easily be found in the old quarters or at the night market in Hanoi.

You can find motives such as; traditional Vietnamese persons and the Eiffel Tower to birthday cakes and peacocks in 3D!

Book your stay in Vietnam

Click here to find the best and cheapest hotels in Vietnam

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Do you have any other questions about Vietnam souvenirs? Leave a comment below!

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One comment.

Thank you, I’m happy to help :)

I haven’t been to Hoi An yet, so I can’t guarantee you’ll find it there. But just stroll around in the local shops and I’m sure you’ll find it somewhere.

Wish you a fun trip to beautiful Vietnam!

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• 10 cool collectibles to buy in Vietnam

All photos by Christian Berg

In Vietnam, shopping is all about the boutiques that appeal to you, the artisans with a interesting point of view, and the cool finds that leave you with a story to tell. Vietnam is rich in crafts, from weaving to woodblock painting. Its colourful history and mixed cultural influences provide a wealth of inspiration for contemporary brands. Here are 10 interesting collectibles to bring home from your Vietnam trip, as well as a list of favourite places to shop around the country. 

Stationery and posters - zo project.

Stationery lovers will easily become enamored of Zo Project’s artistic products. Zo Project is a social enterprise that aims to preserve Vietnam’s traditional paper-making techniques. Zo’s understated calendars, notebooks, and contemporary posters are beautiful Vietnamese mementos that double as art pieces. 

TIP: For an immersive experience, join Zo Project’s tours to a paper-making craft village outside Hanoi.

Ceramic tea sets and accessories - Reaching Out

Vietnam has several renowned pottery villages and distinctive styles of ceramics. In the town of Hoi An , Reaching Out employs people with disabilities in its riverside workshop, which turns out exquisite, hand-painted tea accessories. Treat yourself to the tea-for-one set, which stacks into its own matching teacup, or the very Vietnamese drip-filter coffee mug. 

Lacquerware trays and chopsticks - Hanoia House

Hanoia House taps Vietnam’s ancient lacquerware techniques to create modern home accessories and jewelry. Using traditional methods, each piece, no matter how small, requires at least 100 days to craft. Stop into Hanoia’s stylish boutiques to search for lacquerware trays, chopsticks and coconut bowls to brighten your table back home.

See #VietnamNOW from Vietnam Tourism Board on Vimeo .

Silk dresses and scarves - Lam Boutique

Simplicity and intimacy are two characteristics of a Lam Boutique dress. Founded in Ho Chi Minh City by a local designer, the brand’s luxe dresses and skirts evoke the elegance of Old Saigon. Visit the boutique to pick up a Vietnamese tunic, or a silk kimono to wear around the house.

Tropical fruit jams from the Mekong Delta - La Petite Epicerie

Now you can bring a little Vietnamese sunshine back with you -- in a jar! The Mekong Delta ’s abundant fruits and spices inspired the founding of La Petite Epicerie . The brand’s premium jams deliver local flavours with a delicious twist. Mango with ginger, guava with lemongrass, and pineapple with cinnamon are some bestsellers. Choose between standard size jars or small jar gift boxes. 

Vietnamese deck of playing cards - Gingko

This chic deck of cards is one of the sassiest gifts on the shelves at Gingko ’s nationwide stores. The deck features famous characters from Vietnamese history , such as General Tran Hung Dao, Emperor Gia Long, and the Trung Sisters. The deck is beautifully designed, and a pullout sheet presents short descriptions of the heroes and heroines on the cards. 

Fine Vietnamese chocolate - Maison Marou 

Chocolate lovers mustn't miss Marou ’s flagship store in Ho Chi Minh City or its ‘cacao embassy’ in Hanoi. The chocolate cafe serves luscious hot chocolates and pastries, but the shop is where you’ll find Marou’s six, award-winning single-origin bars, Origin Plus bars mixed with ingredients such as Dalat Arabica, and exclusive Maison Marou bars and bonbons.

Hanoi and Saigon Monopoly boards - Vietnam Themed Games

Go back in time to the Paris of the East (Hanoi) and the Pearl of the Orient (Saigon) with these vintage-themed Monopoly board games. Hanoi and Saigon Monopoly features Vietnam’s major cities as they stood in the 1880s. The property, chest and chance cards are accurately illustrated with old photos, and the adorable pawns wear Vietnamese ao dais and non la. 

TIP: When looking for Vietnamese brands, check out stores such as Collective Memory, LIVIN Collective and Cocobox which spotlight local products and artisans. 

Printed clutch bags - Eugenie Darge

Steal a slice of Vietnamese street life with these edgy canvas wristlets from Eugenie Darge . The printed bags depict classic motifs from the streets of Vietnam, such as birdcages, wall prints, and water stains. The brand also created colourful cushion covers, framed prints and totes inspired by Vietnam’s ethnic minorities. 

Gourmet tea and coffee - Hatvala

Vietnam has a long history with tea, and there are countless brands to choose from. However, few pursue the search for great coffee and wild teas the way Hatvala does. The company is dedicated to sourcing and introducing fine, hand-picked Vietnamese teas to the world. Hatvala’s sample tea sets will delight you with a taste of Vietnam long after you’ve returned home.

Where to Shop 

Collective Memory , Hanoi

Hanoia House , Hanoi

Tan My Design , Hanoi

Livin Collective , Nha Trang

Reaching Out , Hoi An

Gingko , Vietnam

L’usine , Ho Chi Minh City

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Ultimate Solo Traveler’s Guide to Exploring Vietnam: Top Activities and Hidden Gems

Welcome to the ultimate guide for solo travelers heading to Vietnam! Whether you’re embarking on an adventure to uncover hidden gems, indulging in local cuisine, or simply soaking in the rich cultural heritage, Vietnam offers a plethora of experiences tailored for solo adventurers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top activities, tips, and must-see locations to ensure your solo journey is unforgettable.

Why Choose Vietnam for Solo Travel?

Vietnam, with its vibrant cities, stunning landscapes, and welcoming locals, is ideal for solo travelers. The country offers a safe environment, affordable accommodation, and numerous opportunities to meet fellow travelers. From bustling metropolises like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to serene destinations like Halong Bay and Hoi An, Vietnam has something for every type of solo traveler.

Day-by-Day Itinerary for a 7-Day Solo Trip

Day 1: arrival in hanoi.

Kick off your adventure in Hanoi , the capital city. Start your day with a visit to the Old Quarter , where the narrow streets and ancient buildings offer a glimpse into the city’s history. Don’t miss Hoan Kiem Lake , a serene escape in the heart of the city. For dinner, indulge in local street food such as pho or banh mi.

Day 2: Explore Hanoi’s Cultural Sites

Dedicate your second day to exploring Hanoi’s cultural treasures. Visit the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum , the Temple of Literature , and the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology . For a unique experience, catch a traditional water puppet show in the evening.

Day 3: Halong Bay Cruise

No trip to Vietnam is complete without experiencing the breathtaking beauty of Halong Bay . Take a day trip from Hanoi to embark on a cruise through the emerald waters, dotted with limestone karsts and islands. Enjoy activities such as kayaking, swimming, and exploring caves.

Day 4: Travel to Hoi An

Catch a flight to Da Nang and make your way to the charming town of Hoi An . Known for its well-preserved Ancient Town, Hoi An is perfect for solo travelers. Wander through the lantern-lit streets, visit local markets, and take a cooking class to learn how to prepare Vietnamese dishes.

Day 5: Relax on Hoi An’s Beaches

Enjoy a leisurely day on Cua Dai or An Bang Beach , just a short ride from the town center. These beaches offer pristine sands and clear waters, perfect for a relaxing solo day out. Don’t forget to try some local seafood at the beachfront restaurants.

Day 6: Da Nang and Marble Mountains

Head back to Da Nang and visit the Marble Mountains , a cluster of five marble and limestone hills. Explore the caves, temples, and scenic viewpoints. In the evening, stroll along the Dragon Bridge and enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Da Nang.

Day 7: Ho Chi Minh City

Conclude your trip in Ho Chi Minh City , the bustling economic hub of Vietnam. Visit the War Remnants Museum , the Cu Chi Tunnels , and Ben Thanh Market . Take in the vibrant atmosphere of District 1 and enjoy a farewell dinner at one of the rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline.

Embarking on a solo journey in Vietnam is an enriching experience that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation. The country’s welcoming atmosphere, diverse landscapes, and rich traditions make it a top destination for solo travelers. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities, relaxing on pristine beaches, or discovering historical sites, Vietnam has something to offer every solo adventurer.

With careful planning and an open mind, your solo trip to Vietnam will be a memorable and transformative experience. So pack your bags, book your accommodations, and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and charm of Vietnam!

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