17 Things You Can't-Miss Buying in Vietnam

Did you know that Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee exporter after Brazil?

With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine, it’s no wonder that over 1.5 million international travelers flocked to Vietnam in January 2024!

As you explore the bustling markets and charming streets, you’ll discover a treasure trove of shopping delights waiting to be uncovered.

Wondering what is famous in Vietnam to buy? To help you navigate this exciting journey, we’ve curated a list of 17 must-buy items that encapsulate the essence of this vibrant country.

Get ready to fill your suitcase with unique treasures that will remind you of your adventures in Vietnam!

Unpack the top 17 Things to Buy in Vietnam

1. Vietnamese Coffee

As the world’s second-largest coffee exporter, Vietnam is famous for its strong, aromatic coffee. It’s a perfect gift for any coffee lover.

Where to Buy: Local markets, coffee shops, or specialty stores like Trung Nguyen or Highlands Coffee.
Price Range: 350 to 1,000 INR for a good bag of ground coffee.

2. Silk Products

Vietnam’s silk is renowned for its quality and craftsmanship. From beautiful scarves to elegant dresses, these items are perfect souvenirs.

Where to Buy: Visit Hoi An’s silk villages or the Silk Street in Hanoi for a wide range of silk products.
Price Range: Silk scarves can cost between 350 and 1,600 INR, while dresses may range from 1,600 to 7,200 INR depending on the design and tailoring.

3. Lacquerware

Known for its glossy finish and intricate designs, lacquerware is a stunning representation of Vietnamese art and craftsmanship.

Where to Buy: Check out local artisan shops in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, or traditional craft villages like Dong Thanh.
Price Range: Prices can vary greatly, starting at around 175 INR for small items to over 1,400 INR for larger pieces.

4. Pottery

Vietnam’s pottery, especially from Bat Trang village, features beautiful designs and vibrant colors, making it a perfect addition to your home decor.

Where to Buy: Bat Trang Pottery Village, located near Hanoi, offers a wide selection of ceramics.
Price Range: Small pottery items start around 50 INR, while larger pieces can reach up to 1,400 INR.

5. Handmade Embroidery

Vietnamese embroidery reflects the intricate artistry and skill of local artisans.

From embroidered table runners to stunning wall hangings, these items are not only beautiful but also steeped in cultural significance.

Each piece tells a story and makes for a meaningful souvenir.

Where to Buy: Look for embroidered bags, tablecloths, and clothing in markets like Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or the Old Quarter in Hanoi.
Price Range: Expect to pay between 500 and 2,800 INR for quality embroidered items.

6. Non La (Conical Hat)

The iconic conical hat is not just a stylish accessory; it’s also practical for protecting against the sun and rain.

In towns like Hoi An, you can witness artisans weaving the Non-La hats out of leaves or reeds around a bamboo frame, showcasing a skill passed down through generations.

This hat is a beautiful symbol of Vietnamese culture and makes a great keepsake.

Where to Buy: Find them in street markets or artisan shops throughout Vietnam, especially in Hoi An.
Price Range: Prices range from 50 to 350 INR depending on the design and quality.

7. Local Spices

Vietnamese cuisine is rich in flavors, and local spices make great gifts for friends or for recreating dishes back home.

The variety of spices available can enhance any culinary experience and remind you of the vibrant flavors of Vietnam.

Where to Buy: Visit specialty spice shops or markets like Ben Thanh Market.
Price Range: A good selection of spices can cost anywhere from 175 to 900 INR.

8. Bamboo Products

Bamboo is a versatile material used extensively in Vietnam, from functional items to artistic creations.

Products like bamboo baskets, utensils, and decor pieces showcase the country’s craftsmanship.

The charm of bamboo products lies in their natural beauty and durability, making them ideal souvenirs.

Where to Buy: Local markets and artisan shops in rural areas.
Price Range: Small bamboo items start at around 80 INR, while larger pieces can cost up to 1,400 INR.

9. Traditional Costumes (Ao Dai)

The Ao Dai is a beautiful representation of Vietnamese culture and makes for a stunning keepsake.

This traditional dress, with its elegant lines and vibrant colors, is often made from luxurious silk and tailored to fit perfectly.

Many shops offer custom tailoring, allowing you to select your fabric and style, making it a personalized souvenir.

Where to Buy: Custom-tailoring shops in Hoi An or tailor shops in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are renowned for their quality.
Price Range: A tailored Ao Dai typically costs between 1,400 and 4,200 INR depending on the fabric and complexity.

10. Lanterns

Famous in Hoi An, lanterns are a colorful and charming souvenir. These beautifully crafted lanterns come in various shapes and sizes, making them a great decorative piece for your home.

Each lantern is handmade, often using silk or cotton, and embodies the spirit of Vietnamese artistry.

Where to Buy: Hoi An is the best place to purchase lanterns, especially along the riverside shops.
Price Range: Lanterns typically range from 200 to 1,200 INR depending on size and craftsmanship.

11. Postcards

Capture your memories of Vietnam with unique postcards featuring stunning landscapes, iconic landmarks, and vibrant street scenes.

They are a simple yet thoughtful way to share your travel experiences with friends and family.

Where to Buy: Available at local markets, souvenir shops, and art galleries across the country.
Price Range: Prices usually start from 25 INR each.

12. Dried Fruits

Vietnam is known for its high-quality dried fruits, including mango, jackfruit, and coconut.

These snacks are not only delicious but also make for a healthy treat or gift.

The fruits are often dried using traditional methods, preserving their flavors and nutrients.

Where to Buy: Markets like Ben Thanh or local specialty shops.
Price Range: Expect to pay between 175 and 900 INR for quality dried fruits.

13. Jewellery

Look for unique, handcrafted jewellery that often incorporates local materials, such as silver and semi-precious stones.

These pieces not only showcase Vietnamese artistry but also tell stories of the culture and traditions behind them.

Where to Buy: Artisan shops in Hanoi, Hoi An, and local markets.
Price Range: Jewellery can range from 350 to 1,400 INR depending on the design and materials used.

14. Vietnamese Tea and Herbal Products

Vietnam boasts a rich tradition of tea cultivation, with regions like Hanoi and the northern mountains producing some of the finest teas in the world.

When visiting, don’t miss the chance to bring home fragrant Vietnamese green tea, jasmine tea, or herbal infusions made from local plants like lemongrass and lotus.

These teas not only offer delightful flavors but also embody the country's serene tea culture.

Where to Buy: Local tea shops in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Ben Thanh Market.
Price Range: A good quality tea can range from 300 to 1,200 INR per pack.

15. Local Crafts

Handcrafted items such as woven baskets or wooden carvings reflect the local culture and artistry.

These crafts often incorporate traditional techniques and materials, making them not just souvenirs but also pieces of art that tell a story.

Where to Buy: Artisan markets or craft villages like Kim Bong Carpentry Village.
Price Range: Crafts typically range from 175 to 1,400 INR.

16. Handmade Soaps

Vietnamese artisan soaps are made from natural ingredients and infused with local scents, such as lemongrass and coconut.

These soaps make for lovely gifts and are a great way to indulge in a bit of self-care.

Where to Buy: Local markets, artisan shops, or specialty beauty stores.
Price Range: Prices start from 80 INR for a single bar to around 500 INR for gift sets.

17. Vietnamese Rice Wine (Rượu)

Vietnamese rice wine, or Rượu, is a traditional alcoholic beverage that embodies the spirit of the country.

Made from glutinous rice, this wine has a rich and diverse flavour profile, often enhanced with local ingredients like fruits, herbs, or even medicinal plants.

Rượu is commonly enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions, making it a wonderful gift to share with friends and family back home.

The unique production methods and flavours make it a memorable reminder of your Vietnamese adventure.

Where to Buy: Local markets, specialty liquor stores in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, or directly from rice wine producers in rural areas.
Price Range: Typically ranges from 200 to 1,000 INR per bottle, depending on the quality and brand.