By Evelyn Nguyen, Oct 4, 2024
Vietnam is not just a dream destination for travelers, it’s also a shopping haven known for its rich variety of goods and affordable prices. Visitors can easily find meaningful souvenirs to take home for friends and family.
In this guide, Incredible Asia Journeys will tell you what to shop for in Vietnam, including local tips, the best places to find certain items, and insights into Vietnamese shopping culture.
Shopping in Vietnam Market
Wondering what products Vietnam is known for? Thanks to its flourishing agriculture and craftsmanship, you can buy an array of items from handmade crafts to gourmet treats and stylish clothing. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most iconic and popular items in Vietnam to consider purchasing while you’re exploring Vietnam.
Vietnamese silk
Vietnamese silk is famous for its high quality and luxurious texture, making it a popular choice for travelers looking for elegant and meaningful souvenirs. Silk has been produced in Vietnam for centuries, and today you’ll find various types, including silkworm silk (lụa tằm) and the rarer lotus silk (lụa sen), which is made from the fibers of lotus stems.
The best place to shop for authentic silk products is in Van Phuc Silk Village, located about 10 kilometers from Hanoi. Another excellent destination is Tan Chau Silk Village in the Mekong Delta, where artisans specialize in producing exquisite silk products. In both places, you can witness the intricate process of silk-making and purchase silk scarves, Ao Dai, or even custom-made garments.
Have a coffee in Hanoi Train Street
Vietnamese coffee is famous for its bold, rich flavor so Vietnamese iced coffee has even been ranked #1 on TasteAtlas’ list of “10 Best Rated Coffees in the World”. As the world’s 2nd-largest coffee exporter, Vietnam produces various coffee beans, including Arabica, Robusta, and the more exotic Weasel Coffee (similar to Civet Coffee).
You’ll find high-quality coffee available in markets and specialty stores across the country. If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, head to Ben Thanh Market or one of the many local coffee shops to pick up freshly roasted beans. In Hanoi, visit Giang Café, the birthplace of the famous egg coffee, where you can buy packaged coffee to bring home. For a broader selection, try Trung Nguyen Coffee or G7, both of which offer premium coffee blends that are perfect as gifts.
Vietnam is home to some of the best pearl farms in Southeast Asia, producing natural pearls in regions such as Halong Bay and Phu Quoc Island. While these pearls come with a higher price tag, they are a valuable and timeless souvenir.
If you’re taking a cruise in Halong Bay, many itineraries include a visit to a local pearl farm where you can learn about pearl cultivation and purchase jewelry directly from the source. Phu Quoc Island is also a hub for pearl production, and you’ll find various shops and markets with a wide selection of pearl necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.
Check-in lantern in Hoi An
If you visit the enchanting town of Hoi An, you will undoubtedly be captivated by its vibrant and colorful paper lanterns, which light up the streets at night. These lanterns are handmade by local artisans and are deeply symbolic of Hoi An’s cultural heritage.
Hoi An is the best place to purchase these beautiful paper lanterns, with many shops and street vendors offering them in various sizes and designs. Some lanterns are even foldable, making them easy to pack in your luggage. You’ll find the most extensive selection of lanterns in Hoi An’s Ancient Town, especially around Nguyen Thai Hoc Street.
What should you buy in Vietnam? No shopping trip in Vietnam would be complete without exploring its traditional clothing. The Ao Dai (Vietnamese long dress), Non La (conical hat), and Khan Ran (checkered scarf) are iconic garments that represent the country’s deep-rooted cultural identity.
You can find well-made Ao Dai and Non La in most major cities, with many tailors doing custom-made ao dai to fit your size and style preferences. In Hanoi, visit Hang Gai Street, known for clothing shopping in Vietnam with silk shops and tailors, or head to Ho Chi Minh City’s Ben Thanh Market for a wide range of traditional attire.
Tailoring in Hoi An
What is good to buy in Vietnam? Vietnam is also a great place to shop for everyday clothing. Hoi An is famous for its skilled tailors who can create custom garments in a matter of days if not hours. Here, you can have suits, dresses, or even casual outfits made to your exact specifications at a fraction of the price you would pay in Western countries. During Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City tours, you can explore popular markets like Dong Xuan Market or Saigon Square for a variety of inexpensive clothing items.
The diversity of Vietnam spices
When it comes to what to buy in Vietnam, don’t overlook the country’s regional specialties. From packaged snacks to artisanal sauces, Vietnam’s culinary delights are perfect for taking a piece of the country home with you. In North Vietnam, one of the most popular treats is O Mai, a type of sugar-coated dried fruit that comes in various flavors, such as apricot, plum, or peach. These sweet and tangy snacks from Hanoi are often enjoyed with tea and are a favorite gift to bring home.
In central Vietnam, particularly in Da Nang, travelers can find Banh Kho Me, a delicious sesame seed brittle made from rice flour, sesame, and sugar. Meanwhile, in the south, the Mekong Delta is famous for its coconut candy, a chewy and flavorful confection made from fresh coconuts, often infused with pandan or durian.
Coming to some tourist attractions in Vietnam, you can find many local markets and even street vendors, check out the below local markets in major tourist destinations for Vietnam tips.
Ben Thanh Market
One of the most iconic markets in Vietnam, Ben Thanh Market is a must-visit for any tourists in Ho Chi Minh City. It's packed with stalls selling everything from local handicrafts, souvenirs, and clothing to food and spices. You’ll find Vietnamese coffee, traditional Ao Dai, and unique home decor items. It’s also a great place to enjoy authentic street food, with several vendors offering local favorites like Pho and Banh Mi.
Inside the Dong Xuan Market
Located in the heart of the capital, Dong Xuan Market is one of Hanoi’s largest markets. It’s particularly popular for wholesale goods, from textiles and electronics to souvenirs and household items. This 4-story indoor market shows tourists everyday life in Hanoi, and the bustling environment makes it a lively shopping experience. Don’t forget to consider shopping in Vietnamese food stalls, where you can try local dishes like Bun Cha and Spring Rolls!
The Hoi An Night Market is famous for its stunning display of lanterns, which light up the ancient town’s streets after dark. It’s the perfect place to buy beautiful silk lanterns, handmade jewelry, and other artisanal goods. You can do a Hoi An street food tour making it a great spot to explore both during the day and at night.
Bac Ha Market
For a more authentic and rural shopping experience, head to Bac Ha Market in the northern highlands. This colorful market is held every Sunday and is primarily visited by local ethnic minorities, including the Hmong and Tay people. Here, you can buy traditional clothing, handmade crafts, and a variety of local produce. It’s a fantastic spot to immerse yourself in the culture and pick up one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Vincom Center
Vincom Center is one of the largest and most popular shopping destinations in Vietnam. It houses a range of international and local brands, including luxury fashion, homeware, and electronics. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of restaurants and cafes, making it a one-stop shop for all your needs. The mall is known for its spacious design and upscale shopping options, catering to those looking for both high-end goods and affordable everyday items.
Lotte Center is known for its premium shopping experience with luxury brands, electronics, and gourmet food. The mall also features a supermarket where you can find imported goods, as well as a selection of high-end restaurants. One of the key attractions is the Sky Walk, which offers a stunning view of the city from the upper floors, making it a great place to combine shopping with sightseeing.
Aeon Mall
Aeon Mall is a family-friendly shopping center with a wide variety of stores selling clothing, electronics, and home goods. It’s known for its spacious layout and well-organized stores, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists. The food court is another highlight, offering a wide selection of Vietnamese and international dishes at affordable prices. Aeon Mall also has entertainment facilities such as cinemas and arcades, making it a perfect place for a family outing.
Saigon Centre
Saigon Centre features high-end fashion brands, affordable retailers, and dining options. It’s a popular choice for those seeking international brands such as Zara, Uniqlo, and Coach, along with a range of cosmetics and accessories. The mall’s modern design and convenient location make it a favorite among tourists and locals alike. With plenty of cafes and restaurants, it’s easy to spend an entire day shopping and dining here.
Shopping in Vietnam can be a delightful adventure, but a few Vietnam shopping tips and tricks will help you make the most of it.
Shopping in Vietnam market
By knowing what is good for shopping in Vietnam, where to go, and how to navigate the market, you can enjoy a seamless and rewarding shopping experience. Don’t forget to explore both local and modern shopping scenes for a complete Vietnamese experience! Contact Incredible Asia Journeys now to plan your trip to Vietnam by using these tips!
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