What to Buy in Vietnam: Top 14 Must-Have Souvenirs!

The Smart Buyer’s Manifesto

The $100 Challenge: What Value Does It Get You?

You might be surprised to learn that landing in Vietnam can instantly make you feel like a millionaire (literally, since $100 is roughly 2.5 million VND). But let’s talk real purchasing power.

If you are in the US or Europe, $100 might get you a decent dinner for two or a single, average-quality shirt from a department store.

In Vietnam, that same $100 bill unlocks a "Luxury Shopping Spree":

• $40: A custom-made, bespoke silk dress or a tailored shirt in Hoi An (ready in 24 hours).
• $15: 1kg of premium Robusta coffee beans (the strong, authentic kind).
• $5: A hand-carved wooden stamp with your face and name on it.
• $10: A set of 3 hand-painted coconut bowls.
• $30: A feast of a dinner for two, including local beers.

So, is shopping in Vietnam cheap? Yes. But more importantly, the value you get for your money is unbeatable. You aren't just buying "stuff"; you are buying craftsmanship that would cost a fortune back home.

Bargaining 101: The "Smile & Walk Away" Rule

Bargaining in Vietnam is not an argument. It is a social dance. In tourist hotspots like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or the Old Quarter in Hanoi, vendors often start with a “tourist price” that can be two to three times higher than the real value.

Here is how to play the game like a local pro.

• Rule #1: The 50% Anchor: If a vendor asks for 500,000 VND, counter with 250,000 VND. Do not be shy. They may look shocked, which is part of the act, but this sets the foundation for meeting somewhere in the middle.
• Rule #2: The Poker Face: Never show too much excitement. If they see that you really love the bag, the price will go up. Act interested, but always look willing to walk away.
• Rule #3: The Smile and Walk Away: This is your most powerful weapon. If the price is not right, say “Thank you” with a friendly smile and slowly walk away.

The Result: Nine times out of ten when I acted this way, the vendor would call me back with “Okay, okay, come back! That is when you know you have reached the real price.

How to Spot Fakes

For silk, the ultimate proof lies in fire. Ask the vendor to burn a loose thread from the seam; authentic silk smells distinctly like burnt hair and crumbles into fine ash, whereas synthetic fabrics smell like burning plastic and melt into a hard bead. 

As for pearls, the secret is friction. Gently rub two pearls together; real pearls create a slightly gritty, sandy sensation and may even produce a fine white powder, while fakes will slide against each other smoothly like glass.

Wearable Memories: Fashion, Silk & Textiles

Custom Tailoring in Hoi An

Hoi An’s reputation is built on speed. Skilled cutters here can complete a fully bespoke suit or evening gown in as little as 24 to 48 hours. However, to avoid the “lost in translation” trap, skip the dusty shop catalogs. The most effective strategy is to show the tailor a high-resolution image from Pinterest or Instagram directly on your phone. This visual reference allows them to mimic the exact drape, stitching, and fit you want far better than a verbal description ever could.

In terms of tailor-made clothes in Hoi An, prices are a fraction of what you would pay in London or New York. A full two-piece suit typically runs between $100 and $150, while a custom silk dress costs roughly $40 to $60. For the best selection of fabrics, from breathable linen to premium wool, head straight to the workshops clustered along Tran Hung Dao Street.

>>> Read More: Best tailors in Hoi An Vietnam

Ao Dai (The National Costume)

The Ao Dai is Vietnam’s defining silhouette. It is a long, split tunic worn over loose trousers. While it dates back to the 18th century, buying one today requires navigating two distinct categories.

• First is the “Souvenir Grade” (approximately $15 to $30), typically found in markets or souvenir stands. These are ready-made from synthetic blends. They are affordable and perfect for a quick photo shoot, but the fabric lacks breathability and the fit is generic. 
• Second is the “Couture Grade” (around $45 to $80 and above), commissionable at specialized tailors. These pieces use authentic Ha Dong or Hue silk and are measured to fit your body like a second skin. This level of precision is essential for a garment designed to be this form-fitting.

Trusted Locations:

• Hanoi: Vinh Trach Shop (23 Luong Van Can St., Hoan Kiem)
• Hue: Thao Trang Shop (1 Quoc Su Quan) or Minh Tan Store (57 Nguyen Sinh Cung)
• Hoi An: Bebe Tailors (05-07 Hoang Dieu)

Water Hyacinth Bags

According to Artera Home, it is mentioned that “seagrass, water hyacinth, and raffia” are the definition of sustainable fashion for the future in Vietnam.

Vietnamese artisans take water hyacinth, an invasive river weed, and weave it into incredibly durable accessories. Unlike fragile straw bags, water hyacinth fibers are thick, slightly rubbery, and resistant to snapping, which makes them perfect for carrying heavy beach gear or daily groceries.

You will typically find two main styles. The first is Minimalist, with a plain, natural beige color that is popular with the Boho crowd. The second is Decorated, featuring hand-painted motifs of Ao Dai girls or silk flowers.

• The Price Gap: A similar bag on Etsy or Amazon typically sells for forty to sixty US dollars. In Vietnam, you are buying directly from the source.
• Price: Starts from ten US dollars, approximately 250,000 VND.
• Where to Buy: Night Markets in Hanoi, especially the Weekend Night Market, Hoi An, and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City.

Embroidery & Indigo Fabrics

In the northern mountains, such as Sapa and Lao Cai, fabric is not just made. It is grown. The Black Hmong people harvest hemp, spin it by hand, and dye it repeatedly in vats of fermented indigo leaves to achieve their signature deep, dark navy blue.

But, sapa markets are currently flooded with mass-produced industrial prints imported from China. Here is how to tell them apart.

• Real Indigo (Handmade): The fabric feels rough and sturdy, as it is made from hemp. It has a distinct, earthy smell from the fermentation process. The blue dye might slightly rub off on your fingers. This is a sign of authenticity, not a defect. The white patterns, created using batik techniques, are drawn with beeswax, so the lines are naturally imperfect.
• Fake (Industrial): The fabric feels smooth, thin, and synthetic. The patterns are perfectly sharp, bright white, and printed by machines. It has no smell.
• Price: Small handmade items such as pouches and coasters start at five to seven US dollars. Large blankets or jackets cost significantly more due to the labor involved.

Trusted Locations:

• Sapa Market (Luong Dinh Cua Street, Sapa)
• Can Cau Market (Si Ma Cai, Lao Cai), best for raw authenticity
• Ta Phin Brocade Village (Sapa), buy directly from the makers

Silk

Trying to finalize where to shop in Vietnam? Browse the crafts. The silk, which was once used for trading in the past, has played an important role in the culture and economic development of the people of Vietnam. It is derived from the cocoon of the silkworm and woven into fabric. There are over 3,000 silkworms that consume almost 104 kilograms of mulberry leaves before spinning 1 kilogram of silk.

Considered a luxury good in ancient times, silk is now available to the average person. The cost is approximately 3 dollars for a meter of ordinary silk and 4 dollars for a meter of high-quality silk. The best fabrics can be found in Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City.

• Pricing: 3 - $4/m²

Places to Buy:

• Van Phuc Silk Village, Van Phuc, Ha Dong, Hanoi
• Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Bebe Tailors: 05-07 Hoang Dieu / 95 Phan Chau Trinh / 40 Tran Hung Dao, Hoi An
• Hoi An Silk Village: 28 Nguyen Tat Thanh St., Cam Pho, Hoi An
• Ben Thanh Market, Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
• An Dong Market, 36 An Duong Vuong St., District 5, Ho Chi Minh City

Conical Hat

The Non La is Vietnam’s original all-weather shield. Made from latania leaves and bamboo, it keeps you dry during sudden monsoons and surprisingly cool under the tropical sun. However, not all hats are created equal.

• Northern hats, specifically from Chuong Village, are known for their sturdy, robust build and are great for actual use. 
• In Central Vietnam, especially Hue, look for the “Poem Hat” (Non Bai Tho). 

These look plain at first glance, but when held up to the sunlight, they reveal hidden silhouettes or poems sandwiched between the leaf layers. This is a unique artistic technique.

• Price: Two to three US dollars per piece.

Trusted Locations:

• Hanoi: Dong Xuan Market or Chuong Conical Hat Village (Thanh Oai)
• Hue: Dong Ba Market or Phu Cam Hat Village (Phu Nhuan)
• Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market

The Artisan’s Soul: Handicrafts & Decor

Personalized Wooden Stamps

Forget generic fridge magnets. This is arguably the best “bang for your buck” souvenir in Vietnam: fully customized, instant, and incredibly cheap.

You select a raw wooden block and a design, anything from a classic lotus to a caricature of your own face. Then, you sit on a small plastic stool and watch a skilled artisan hand-carve your name, or even your face, or translate it into Vietnamese or Chinese characters, right in front of you. The whole process takes about 10 to 15 minutes.

It is the size of a lighter, taking up zero precious luggage space. Unlike mass-produced trinkets, no two stamps are exactly the same. It is a fantastic, personalized gift for friends back home without breaking the bank.

• Price: From $3 to $20, depending on size and detail.
• Where to find: Look for small street-side stalls in Hanoi’s Old Quarter (Hang Quat Street) or near the ticket booths in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Lacquerware (Sơn Mài)

Vietnamese lacquerware is not just painted wood; it is a test of patience, requiring up to 20 layers of resin and months to cure. However, when you walk into a shop, you will see two very different price points. Here is how to tell them apart.

• The “Souvenir” Grade (Bamboo or Compressed Wood): Pick it up. If it feels feather-light, it is likely made of bamboo or compressed sawdust. These are mass-produced and affordable, priced from $5 to $15, and are perfect for coasters or candy bowls. Warning: They may warp in very dry climates.
• The “Heirloom” Grade (Solid Wood): These feel significantly heavier and denser. Often inlaid with crushed eggshell, mother-of-pearl, or gold leaf, these pieces are built on solid timber and are designed to last for decades.
• Price: From $5 for coasters to $500 and above for art panels.

Trusted Location:

• Ha Thai Lacquer Village (Duyen Thai, Thuong Tin, Hanoi)

Phu Quoc Cultured Pearls

Famous for its pearl production, Phu Quoc Island has numerous pearl farms that you can visit to learn more about the pearl oyster technique. If you spend some time on the Emerald Isle, it's a chance to bring back a nice local gem as a souvenir of Vietnam. As for prices, you can find a simple pearl, without setting or jewelry, for about 10 dollars, but prices rise quickly depending on the quality of the pearl, the work done, and the materials used for decoration and setting. Prices start from $10 for simple studs, but can soar to $7,000+ for rare, gold-set masterpieces.

Price: 10$ - 7,000$

Place to Buy:

• Phu Quoc Ngoc Hien Pearl Installation: Group 1, Duong To Village, Duong To, Phu Quoc
• Phu Quoc Quoc An Pearl Farm: Suoi May Village, Duong To, Phu Quoc

Hoi An Lanterns

It is impossible to leave Hoi An without taking a piece of its magic home. Introduced by Chinese merchants along the Silk Road in the 16th century, these lanterns have become the town’s signature. While they look fragile, the genius of Vietnamese craftsmanship lies in the bamboo frame. They are completely foldable.

While the round shape is classic, we recommend choosing the “Garlic” or “Diamond” shapes. When collapsed, these shapes fold down into a slender tube that slides easily into a suitcase, whereas round lanterns can remain bulky. Also, stick to silk fabric for a warm, diffused glow. If you have time, join a workshop to make one yourself.

• Price: A medium lantern typically costs between $3 and $3.50, while larger or more intricate designs range from $4.50 to $9.

Trusted Locations:

• Lantern Market, Nguyen Hoang Street (opens at 6 PM)
• Hoi An Old Town Shop, 19 Tran Phu Street, Cam Chau

>>> Read more: Hoi An lanterns

Cultural Collectibles: Dong Ho Paintings & To He

For those seeking a tangible piece of Northern history, Dong Ho Folk Paintings are a masterpiece of woodblock printing dating back to the 17th century. Printed on traditional “Do” paper, their defining feature is a coating of crushed scallop shells, known as Điệp, which gives the surface a subtle, pearlescent sparkle under the light. 

Using entirely natural pigments, such as burnt bamboo for black and gravel for red, these artworks, including the famous “Mouse Wedding,” often depict satirical or celebratory scenes of feudal life.

In contrast, To He, or rice dough figurines, represents the beauty of the moment. You will often see artisans on Hanoi’s streets sculpting these colorful figures from steamed glutinous rice and sugar in just a few minutes. A crucial note for buyers is to treat this as “Ephemeral Art,” or temporary art. 

Because they are made of organic, edible materials, To He figures will dry out, crack, or develop mold within a few days. Buy one to watch the mesmerizing sculpting process or for a fun photo opportunity, but do not expect it to survive the long flight home intact.

Practical Info:

• Price: Dong Ho paintings range from $2 to $10. To He figures typically cost around $1.
• Where to find: Visit Dong Ho Village in Bac Ninh for the paintings, or look for To He artisans on weekends around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi.

>>> Learn more about Dong Ho painting here!

A Taste of Vietnam

Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnam is the world’s powerhouse for Robusta beans, which pack a caffeine punch nearly double that of Western Arabica. Unlike the acidic, fruity notes found in specialty coffee abroad, Vietnamese coffee is famous for its bold, deep bitterness with natural hints of dark chocolate and caramel. This intense profile is exactly why it pairs so perfectly with sweetened condensed milk in the iconic Ca Phe Sua Da.

• The "Weasel" Warning & The Phin Filter: Be skeptical of "Weasel Coffee" priced at $10–$20. Since genuine Weasel beans cost hundreds of dollars, these cheap versions are likely chemically flavored simulations. For a better souvenir, choose Fine Robusta or Da Lat Arabica. Pair it with a stainless steel Phin filter (under $2); the secret tool required to recreate that signature thick, slow-drip texture at home.

• Where to drink and buy: For a taste of history, visit Giảng Café (39 Nguyen Huu Huan, Hanoi), the birthplace of Egg Coffee. Invented in the 1940s when milk was scarce, this creamy, tiramisu-like drink uses whipped egg yolks as a substitute. Café Lâm (60 Nguyen Huu Huan) is another legendary spot known for its smoky roasted beans.
• Price: A bag of quality coffee typically costs $10 to $15 for 250 to 500 grams.

Tea Culture

As the world’s fifth-largest tea producer, Vietnam offers far more than just standard green tea. The crown jewel of this collection is Lotus Tea (Trà Sen), often called the “tea of kings.” True artisanal lotus tea is a labor of love, requiring artisans to scent green tea leaves inside fresh lotus blossoms overnight and repeat the process up to seven times. It takes over 1,000 flowers to produce just one kilogram of premium tea, resulting in a creamy, vanilla-like aroma that is impossible to fake.

On the herbal side, look for Artichoke Tea (Trà Atiso), a specialty from the cool highlands of Da Lat. While it might sound unusual, this tea has a pleasant, nutty, earthy flavor and is locally revered as a powerful liver detox, which makes it the perfect “recovery drink” after a food tour. You can find it packed in convenient tea bags or sold as dried flowers.

Practical Info:

• Price: Standard teas start at $2 per 50 grams, while premium West Lake Lotus tea can cost significantly more.

Trusted Locations:

• For an authentic experience, visit Ninh Hương Bánh Mứt (22 Hang Dieu, Hanoi), an old-school shop famous among locals. 
• In Hue, try Trà Cung Đình Huế Đức Phượng, or look for the Tân Cương Xanh showroom in Ho Chi Minh City.

>>> Learn more about:

• Train Street in Hanoi
• Vietnamese Egg Coffee: Hanoi's Liquid Velvet
• Vietnamese coffee ☕️🍫
• Vietnamese tea 🍃🍵
• Must-visit cafes in Hanoi

Sweet and Savory Treats: O Mai, Coconut Candy and Mooncakes

Vietnamese sweets are rarely just “sweet.” They are often a complex interplay of salty, spicy, and savory notes.

If you walk down Hang Duong Street in Hanoi, you will be hit by the aroma of O Mai, which are salted or sugared preserved fruits. This is not a gummy bear. It is a traditional dried fruit, usually apricot or plum, seasoned with sea salt, sugar, and spicy ginger. It is an acquired taste that explodes on the tongue, designed to be nibbled slowly while sipping hot green tea. It is also a local secret remedy for motion sickness during long bus rides.

Heading south to the Mekong Delta, the specialty is Coconut Candy (Kẹo Dừa). Made from fresh coconut cream and malt syrup, these are chewy, creamy, and addictive.

You will notice a thin, transparent layer wrapping the candy inside the paper wrapper. Do not try to peel it off. It is edible rice paper that melts in your mouth.

Finally, there is the Vietnamese mooncake, but this comes with a strict seasonal and customs warning. Available only around the Mid-Autumn Festival, typically from August to October, these dense, rich cakes are delicious but tricky.

Trusted Locations:

• O Mai: Hong Lam or Tien Thinh shops on Hang Duong Street in Hanoi
• Coconut Candy: Ben Tre markets or supermarkets nationwide
• Mooncakes: Large brands such as Kinh Do or long-standing bakeries like Bao Phuong in Hanoi, but only during autumn

👉 Read more: Vietnamese desserts

Shopping and Fair Trade

Tourists often worry about being overcharged, but there is a side of shopping in Vietnam where spending more feels incredibly good. Vietnam has a thriving network of social enterprises. These organizations do not just sell “souvenirs.” They sell high-quality, handcrafted goods that directly lift disadvantaged communities out of poverty. Here, you are not making a “pity purchase.” You are buying some of the finest craftsmanship in the country.

The “Guilt-Free” List:

• Mekong Quilts: Founded to support women in rural Vietnam and Cambodia, they are famous for stunning, hand-stitched quilts that can take weeks to complete. Their showstopper is the Bamboo Bicycle, a fully functional, durable, and eco-friendly bike frame that turns heads on any street in the world.
• Zó Project: If you loved the Dong Ho folk paintings mentioned earlier, Zó Project is where you go for the modern evolution of that tradition. They are dedicated to saving the dying art of making “Dó” paper. They transform this ancient, bark-based paper into chic, minimalist notebooks, jewelry, and art prints that fit perfectly in a modern office.
• Indigo Cat (Sapa and Hanoi): Remember the warning about fake ethnic textiles? Indigo Cat is the antidote. Run by a family committed to preserving Hmong culture, every jacket, bag, or hemp roll here is fully authentic, dyed with real indigo, and supports mountain artisans through fair trade.
• Craft Link: A non-profit organization that guarantees fair wages for traditional artisans, from ceramicists to weavers. It is the safest place to buy tribal textiles if you cannot make it to remote villages yourself.

Google Maps to find places to buy souvenirs in tourist cities

Please click on the "[ ]" in the top right for better visibility of places to shop for souvenirs in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An, and Can Tho (Mekong). 

Don't worry because in tourist areas, you can find everything. There are many lovely shops on every street. Go ahead, and you'll have plenty of choices.

The Safe Return Guide: Packing & Customs

The “Sandwich” Strategy for Ceramics and Lacquerware

Never trust a “Fragile” sticker alone. If you buy ceramics from Bat Trang or lacquerware, the safest place is not a cardboard box. It is inside your hard-shell suitcase. Wrap the item in multiple layers of bubble wrap, which shops usually provide, then place it in the strict center of your suitcase. It should be “floating” between layers of soft clothes, with shirts on the bottom, the item in the middle, and pants on top. This creates a shock-absorption zone that protects against rough airport handling.

The Conical Hat Dilemma

The Non La is notorious for getting crushed. Do not pack it in a checked bag unless you have a dedicated hard box. Instead, wear it or carry it by hand as a personal item. Most airlines flying out of Vietnam are used to this sight and will allow you to place it carefully in the overhead bin on top of other bags.

Customs Regulations (USA, Australia and EU)

Customs rules change often, but the golden rule remains: “If you are unsure, declare it.” A declared item might simply be confiscated, but an undeclared prohibited item will almost certainly result in a fine.

1. For Travelers to the USA (CBP Rules)

The United States is strict about biosecurity.

• GREEN LIGHT (Allowed): Roasted coffee beans, dried spices, tea, and wooden souvenirs are generally allowed.
• RED LIGHT (Prohibited): Fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat products, including dried beef jerky or pork floss. Even if vacuum-sealed, these items will likely be confiscated.

Verify here: U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Prohibited Items

2. For Travelers to Australia (ABF Rules)

Australia has the strictest biosecurity laws in the world when it comes to organic materials.

• The Wood and Bamboo Rule: You can bring wooden stamps, bamboo hats, or lacquerware, but you must declare them on your incoming passenger card. Biosecurity officers will inspect them for insect infestation. If the item is treated or varnished, like most souvenirs, it usually passes inspection. If you fail to declare, on-the-spot fines are significant.

Verify here: Australian Border Force, Can you bring it in?

3. For Travelers to the EU

The European Union generally bans all meat and dairy products from non-EU countries to prevent animal diseases. This means mooncakes with egg yolk or dried buffalo meat are not allowed.

Verify here: Your Europe, Travel Rules

FAQs: What to buy in Vietnam?

What is the best thing to buy in Vietnam for cheap?

If you are looking for authentic souvenirs under $5, here are the top picks:

• Robusta Coffee: Strong, authentic beans from local markets.\
• Vietnamese Coffee Filter (Phin): The iconic stainless steel dripper.
• Conical Hat (Non La): Practical and symbolic.
• Bamboo Crafts: Dragonflies, coasters, or hand-carved chopsticks.

Can I bring fish sauce or coffee from Vietnam to the US?

• Coffee: YES. Roasted beans and ground powder are allowed in both carry-on and checked bags.
• Fish Sauce: YES and NO.
• US Customs: Technically allows fish sauce (seafood products) in checked bags.
• Airlines: Most airlines ban liquid fish sauce because if a bottle breaks, the smell is impossible to remove.

Expert Tip: If you must bring it, wrap a plastic bottle in multiple layers of tape/plastic, or buy "flight-safe" packed bottles at the airport Duty-Free.

How much should I budget for a tailored suit in Hoi An?

Tailoring prices in Hoi An depend on the fabric quality:

• Basic ($100 - $150): For standard cotton or blends.
• Premium ($200+): For high-quality Wool or Cashmere blends.
• Turnaround Time: Typically 24 to 48 hours with 1-2 fittings included.

How do I spot fake silk in Vietnam?

Ask the seller to perform the "Burn Test" on a loose thread:

• Real Silk: Smells like burnt hair and crumbles into fine ash.
• Fake (Synthetic): Smells like burning plastic and melts into a hard, black lump.

Is it safe to buy jewelry (pearls/gold) in Vietnam?

Yes, if you follow these rules:

• Certification: Only buy from shops that provide a Certificate of Authenticity.
• The "Friction Test" (for Pearls): Gently rub two pearls together. If they feel gritty/sandy, they are likely real. If they slide smoothly like glass, they are fake.

Read more in our in-depth guide: Jewelry in Vietnam.

Our last words

In general, souvenirs in Vietnam are easy to find and buy at reasonable prices. We hope this list will help you find and purchase items that will satisfy you. To make your trip easier and customize each itinerary according to your preferences, we'll be happy to assist you in creating a tailor-made trip. Feel free to contact us!

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