What and where to buy in Vietnam Tour?

What to Buy during a Vietnam Tour?

There are thousands of things you could buy as souvenirs in Vietnam. The country has a rich tradition of handmade products, local crafts, and practical gifts that are easy to carry home. The key is to choose authentic handmade items instead of mass-produced goods, so your souvenir feels more meaningful.

Ao Dai

Ao Dai is widely regarded as the traditional costume of Vietnam. Although it can be worn by both men and women, it is more commonly worn by women today. The Ao Dai was introduced to the court of Lord Nguyen Phuc Khoat of Hue in the 18th century and carries influences from traditional East Asian clothing.

Usually close-fitting and elegant, the Ao Dai can be bought ready-made or tailored to fit you perfectly in many major cities in Vietnam. Hoi An is one of the best places to have one made, as the town is famous for its skilled tailors.

Vietnamese Ao Dai traditional costume.

Silk

Silk is one of the most valued natural fibers in Asia, and it has long been used for clothing, scarves, and decorative items. Vietnam is one of the important silk producers in the region, with silk cloth often woven on hand looms in a variety of colors and patterns.

You can find silk in many shops across Vietnam, either as raw fabric or finished products such as scarves, shirts, dresses, and bags. Counterfeit silk is common in some tourist areas, so check the texture carefully and buy from trusted shops when possible.

Vietnamese silk fabric.

Vietnamese Coffee

Coffee was introduced to Vietnam by the French in the 19th century, and coffee culture has since become part of daily life. Today, Vietnam is known for its strong, bold coffee, especially traditional drip coffee served with condensed milk.

You can buy whole beans, ground coffee, or a Vietnamese coffee filter as a practical souvenir. Local coffee shops and markets are good places to find different blends, and many brands now offer beautifully packaged coffee that is easy to take home.

Vietnamese coffee.

Conical Hats

The traditional Vietnamese conical hat, or non la, is one of the most recognizable symbols of Vietnam. It may look simple, but it is practical, lightweight, and deeply connected to rural life.

Made from palm leaves, bamboo, or the bark of the Moc tree, conical hats are used by farmers, vendors, and local people to protect themselves from sun and rain. They are easy to find in markets and make a classic Vietnamese souvenir.

Vietnamese conical hats.

Lacquerware and Pottery

Pottery is one of Vietnam’s most popular traditional crafts. You can find ceramic bowls, vases, tea sets, and decorative items in many shops, but buying directly from a pottery village gives the experience more meaning.

Lacquerware is another beautiful craft to look for. These hand-painted items can include trays, dishes, boxes, vases, and wall art. The detailed designs and glossy finish make them elegant souvenirs for your home.

Vietnamese lacquerware and pottery.

Hand-Embroidered Materials

Vietnam is well known for hand embroidery, often featuring flowers, landscapes, birds, and scenes from daily life. The quality can be excellent, especially on silk cloth.

You can buy hand-embroidered clothing, wall hangings, table runners, pillow covers, and framed art. Nha Trang and some craft villages are known for fine embroidery, while many tailor shops can also add embroidery to clothing.

Vietnamese hand-embroidered materials.

Snake Wine

Snake wine is one of the more unusual souvenirs you may see in Vietnam. It is rice wine infused with a whole snake inside the bottle, and sometimes with a scorpion as well. Many travelers buy it as a novelty item or display piece rather than something to drink.

Some local sellers claim that snake wine has traditional health benefits, but travelers should treat those claims with caution. If you plan to take it home, check your country’s customs rules first, as some animal-based products may be restricted.

Snake wine in Vietnam.

Where to Buy during a Vietnam Tour?

The traditional Ao Dai can be bought at tailor shops across the country, but Hoi An is one of the most popular places for custom tailoring. The town has many skilled tailors who can make Ao Dai, dresses, suits, and other clothing from local silk and imported fabrics. Ready-made Ao Dai are usually cheaper, while tailor-made pieces cost more depending on the fabric and design.

Hoi An Silk Village is also one of the best places to buy authentic local silk cloth. You can often find real silk by the meter, as well as scarves, clothing, and handmade accessories. For embroidery, the area around Nha Trang is known for fine silk embroidery, including clothing, decorative screens, and custom portraits.

Hoi An Silk Village.

For Vietnamese coffee, local markets and coffee shops are both good choices. Many shops sell locally grown and roasted beans, ready-ground coffee, and Vietnamese coffee filters. Buying from a local coffee shop is also a good way to get a blend you have already tasted.

Conical hats are best bought in local markets rather than tourist-focused shops. Local people buy their own hats in these markets, and prices are usually much more reasonable. The same is true for many everyday souvenirs, from baskets to small handmade goods.

Local market in Vietnam.

Hanoi is a good place to buy lacquerware and pottery. The galleries along Hang Bac Street are good for lacquerware souvenirs. For locally made pottery, consider visiting Bat Trang Village near Hanoi, where the craft has been passed down for generations.

Tips for Shopping in Vietnam

Unlike in many Western countries, shopping in Vietnam often means bargaining over the price, especially in local markets. Sellers may start with a higher price because bargaining is expected. However, some shops now have fixed prices, especially boutiques, malls, and higher-end stores.

Bargaining should stay friendly and respectful. It helps to have a rough idea of the normal price before you begin. Try not to push too hard, as small sellers still need to make a living. In most cases, they will not sell at a price that causes them to lose money.

Shopping tips in Vietnam.

It is easy to overpay when shopping in busy tourist areas, so compare prices before buying. Avoid buying from people who approach you aggressively on the street, as some items may be low-quality or counterfeit. For silk, lacquerware, pottery, and coffee, trusted shops and local markets are usually better choices.

Keep your belongings safe while shopping. Do not take out a large amount of cash in public, and avoid showing all your money when paying. Keep most of your cash in a secure place and carry only what you need for small purchases.

Summary

Shopping in Vietnam is a wonderful part of the travel experience. Beyond the bargains and souvenirs, local markets offer a close look at Vietnamese daily life and culture. From Ao Dai and silk to coffee, pottery, and conical hats, the best things to buy in Vietnam are often the ones connected to local craft and tradition.

For the best experience, explore local markets, visit trusted craft villages, and take time to compare quality before buying. A thoughtful souvenir from Vietnam can bring back memories of your journey for many years to come.