13 Best Souvenirs & Things to Buy in Vietnam

From the misty mountains of Sapa to the buzzing streets of Saigon, Vietnam offers travelers more than just beautiful landscapes and delicious food, its also an incredible place to shop.

If you’re wondering about the best things to buy in Vietnam, this guide will walk you through thoughtful, authentic finds that go beyond the typical fridge magnet.

The country’s deep cultural roots and strong artisan traditions mean many of the items you’ll come across are handmade, region-specific, and tied to Vietnam’s identity.

From hand-embroidered fabrics to bold coffee blends and spice sets, shopping here can be an extension of your travel experience

Whether you’re looking for souvenirs to buy in Vietnam for yourself or thoughtful gifts for others, there’s no shortage of choices.

On my many trips to Vietnam over the years, I always end up bringing back something, from bold Vietnamese coffee to top-tier leather goods and eye-catching home decor.

It’s hard not to shop for souvenirs and gifts when I’m in Vietnam. Here’s my list of must buy things when in Vietnam!

Vietnamese Coffee

Vietnam is the second-largest coffee exporter in the world, but coffee here is more than just a major industry, it’s a deeply rooted part of daily life.

From north to south, you’ll find cafés on nearly every corner, tucked into alleyways, or spilling out onto sidewalks.

Whether it’s a tiny stool on a busy street or a trendy third-wave cafe, the country runs on coffee.

The signature drink? ca phe sua da, strong black coffee over ice with sweetened condensed milk.

But there’s so much more to try, including egg coffee, coconut coffee, and salt coffee, Vietnamese coffee isn’t only strong, it is unique!

If you’re thinking of things to buy in Vietnam, local coffee beans make for one of the most authentic and appreciated souvenirs.

Skip the convenience store brands and check out Vietnam’s many independent roasters and cafes, especially in cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.

Bring home a bag or two. Vietnamese coffee is more than a drink, it’s a memory in a mug.

Tailor-Made Clothing (Linen, Cotton, Dresses & Suits)

If there’s one thing Vietnam is known for beyond its food and landscapes, it’s affordable, high-quality tailoring.

Whether you’re after a perfectly fitted linen dress, a crisp cotton shirt, or even a custom-made suit, Vietnam delivers quickly and affordably.

Hoi An is especially famous for its tailors, with hundreds of shops lining its lantern-lit streets.

Walk into a reputable tailor, choose your fabrics and style, get measured, and often your clothing will be ready within 24–48 hours. Some even offer same-day service.

It’s not just about suits either, flowing maxi dresses, two-piece sets, jumpsuits, and wide-leg trousers are all popular choices. You can even bring in a photo or replicate a favorite item you already own.

I’ve had several pieces made in Hoi An over the years, and they’ve become staples in my travel wardrobe.

Tailor-made clothing in Vietnam isn’t just a souvenir, it’s a piece of the country you can wear and remember.

Leather Goods

Vietnam is an underrated gem when it comes to leather craftsmanship, especially if you’re after top-tier quality without the luxury price tag.

Cities like Hoi An, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City are home to skilled artisans who create everything from handmade wallets and belts to full-sized duffel bags, backpacks, and leather shoes.

Many of these shops even offer custom work, where you can choose your leather, hardware, and design for something that’s completely one-of-a-kind.

What sets Vietnam apart is not just the craftsmanship but also the value. You’ll often find premium buffalo or cowhide leather items for a fraction of what you’d pay back home.

A handcrafted leather piece makes for a stylish, long-lasting gift. I usually buy mine in Hoi An, where shops offer everything from bags to belts, many even do custom work. Most stores don’t display prices, so be ready to negotiate.

Dried Fruits and Candies

Vietnam is a goldmine for dried fruits and traditional sweets, many of which make for tasty, lightweight souvenirs that travel well.

From chewy jackfruit and crispy banana chips to tropical favorites like mango, coconut, and dragon fruit, dried fruit in Vietnam is both flavorful and naturally preserved without heavy additives.

You’ll also find a variety of local candies, including ginger chews, coconut sweets, sesame brittle, and tamarind treats. These are often packaged in beautifully wrapped boxes, perfect for gifting.

Markets like Ben Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan in Hanoi are great places to sample and buy in bulk.

You can taste a few options before purchasing, and you’ll usually get better prices if you buy more than one pack.

These sweet little bites are not only delicious, they give you a quick taste of Vietnam even after the trip is over.

Lacquerware: Elegant and Timeless Craft

Lacquerware is one of Vietnam’s most iconic traditional crafts, known for its rich colors, glossy finish, and intricate designs.

From trays and coasters to vases, jewelry boxes, and wall art, these pieces strike that perfect balance between functional and decorative.

The process of making lacquerware is meticulous, involving multiple layers of lacquer, sanding, and painting, and often incorporates mother-of-pearl or eggshell inlays. This makes each item feel special and totally unique.

You’ll spot lacquerware in most markets across Vietnam, but for more refined pieces, check out craft boutiques or workshops in cities like Hanoi or Hue.

I usually pick mine up in Hue, the small-town feel and friendly locals make it a great place to shop, especially when paired with nearby Hoi An.

Whether you’re decorating your space or gifting someone something with Vietnamese soul, lacquerware is a beautiful and timeless choice.

Conical Hat: Vietnam’s Iconic Souvenir

Few items say “Vietnam” more instantly than the iconic conical hat. Traditionally worn by farmers and street vendors, these hats aren’t just stylish, they’re practical.

Lightweight and breathable, they offer great protection from both sun and rain.

While you might see these hats sold as novelty souvenirs, many are still handmade using traditional techniques with palm leaves and bamboo.

You’ll find them at local markets, especially in places like Hue and the Mekong Delta, where they’re still commonly worn in daily life.

They make for a great decorative piece or photo prop, and I’ve picked up a few over the years to hang on my wall back home, simple, beautiful, and always a conversation starter.

That said, keep in mind their size. This isn’t something you can easily toss into your suitcase, they’re best kept intact.

If you buy one, you might want to wear it while traveling or carry it on separately to avoid damage.

Whether you wear it or display it, a conical hat is one of the most classic and unique souvenirs to buy in Vietnam.

Vietnamese Spices and Cooking Sauces

If you’ve fallen in love with Vietnamese food (who hasn’t?), bringing home some of the country’s essential spices and sauces is a smart move.

Think fragrant five-spice blends, chili powders, handmade chili oils, and most importantly, fish sauce.

The best fish sauce in Vietnam comes from Phu Quoc, where it’s aged in traditional wooden barrels and packed with umami flavor. Look for reputable brands or ask vendors for their top-shelf recommendations.

You’ll find well-stocked spice stalls at markets like Ben Thanh in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan in Hanoi.

A lot of vendors are happy to explain how to use unfamiliar ingredients, making it feel less like shopping and more like a cultural exchange.

I always grab a few bottles of fish sauce and spice blends to bring home, they’re small, easy to pack (just double seal!), and instantly transport you back to the streets of Vietnam when you start cooking with them.

Lotus Tea and Herbal Blends

Tea culture runs deep in Vietnam, and lotus tea is one of the most iconic varieties you can bring home.

Made by scenting green tea leaves with lotus blossoms, it has a delicate floral aroma that’s calming and distinctly Vietnamese.

Beyond lotus tea, you’ll also find a wide range of herbal blends sold in markets and tea shops, like artichoke tea (popular in Da Lat), pandan leaf tea, and even roasted corn silk tea, each with its own unique health benefits and subtle flavors.

These teas are lightweight, easy to carry, and make excellent souvenirs or gifts. For more premium options, visit specialty tea houses or well-known shops like Tra Viet or Cozy.

I’ve brought back lotus tea for friends and family more than once, it’s a beautiful, sensory gift that feels distinctly tied to Vietnam’s slower, more serene moments.

Rice Paper for Authentic Vietnamese Cooking

Authentic rice paper is a must-bring for anyone wanting to relive the flavors of Vietnam at home.

It’s the base of fresh spring rolls (goi cuon) and a staple in any Vietnamese-inspired pantry.

Rice paper is incredibly versatile, dip it in warm water and wrap it around herbs, noodles, grilled meat, or tofu for a light and tasty bite.

Some varieties are even flavored or embedded with sesame seeds for extra texture and taste.

If you’ve taken a cooking class during your Vietnam itinerary, chances are you’ve already made shrimp rolls using this exact ingredient. So why not bring some home and recreate the experience for family and friends?

You can find rice paper in most local grocery stores and markets, often sold in large packs for a fraction of what you’d pay abroad.

Just make sure to pack it carefully, it’s delicate and can crack in your suitcase if not cushioned.

Whenever I bring this home, it ends up being the star of a DIY Vietnamese dinner night with friends. It’s a fun, interactive way to share your travels, one bite at a time.

Vietnamese Lanterns

There’s definitely something about the lanterns in Vietnam. Once you arrive in Hoi An, it’s almost impossible not to buy one.

They’re everywhere, lighting up streets, alleyways, and shopfronts with vibrant colors. They’re easily one of the most quintessential souvenirs to buy in Vietnam.

Most lanterns are handcrafted, not mass-produced, which adds to their charm. You’ll find a variety of shapes, patterns, and materials like silk and bamboo, often made by local artisans who’ve passed the craft down through generations.

Many are designed to fold flat, which makes packing them much easier, though you’ll still want to be gentle with them to avoid damage.

I always grab a few when I’m in Hoi An. It’s such a lantern-filled town that shopping for them feels like part of the travel experience.

These aren’t just decorations, they’re a bright little reminder of your trip that brings a sense of magic into any space at home.

Hand Fans: Bamboo and Silk with Painted Scenery

Lightweight, beautiful, and surprisingly useful, hand fans make for a great souvenir, especially if you’re visiting during Vietnam’s hotter months.

Usually crafted from bamboo and silk, these fans often feature painted landscapes or traditional motifs, turning a simple object into a functional piece of art.

They’re also super portable, making them one of the easiest things to buy in Vietnam and pack home.

Markets in Hanoi, Hoi An, and even roadside stalls will have a range of styles, from basic to ornate.

You’ll spot fans at cultural performances too, they’re an elegant part of many traditional Vietnamese dances.

I’ve picked up fans as both decorative pieces and gifts, and they’ve always been well-received.

They’re a small touch of Vietnam that adds charm and practicality, and let’s be honest, they’re a lifesaver in humid weather.

Bamboo and Rattan Home Decor

If you’re after something stylish, sustainable, and lightweight, bamboo and rattan products are a must-buy in Vietnam.

From baskets and placemats to handbags, hats, and home decor, these pieces are often beautifully handcrafted and easy to pack.

Vietnamese artisans have been working with these materials for generations, and it shows, the weaving is intricate, the quality is solid, and the design is both traditional and trendy.

Whether you’re furnishing your home or grabbing a few small gifts, there’s plenty to choose from.

Markets in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are full of options, but if you’re heading to smaller towns or craft villages, you might even catch a glimpse of the production process.

I’ve personally brought back woven trays and rattan bags that always get compliments. They’re not just souvenirs, they’re usable, eco-friendly reminders of your trip.

Ceramic and Pottery Souvenirs

Vietnam’s long-standing ceramic tradition is still alive and thriving, and the pieces are as beautiful as they are practical.

You’ll find everything from minimalist teacups and bowls to hand-painted vases, dishes, and decorative tiles.

The best part? These items aren’t just for show. Many are made to be used in everyday life, making them great souvenirs that you’ll actually use.

For something extra special, visit Bat Trang, a centuries-old pottery village just outside Hanoi.

It’s one of the country’s most famous spots for ceramic craftsmanship, and you can even watch artisans at work or try your hand at the pottery wheel.

I’ve picked up a few small espresso cups and dipping dishes that I still use, and every time I do, they bring back memories of wandering through little village workshops filled with rows of colorful, delicate pieces.

Just be sure to pack them well! These treasures are fragile, but totally worth the effort to bring home.

Where to Buy Souvenirs in Vietnam

From lively local markets to quiet craft villages and chic boutiques, Vietnam has no shortage of places to shop.

Where you choose to buy your souvenirs can influence both the quality and the meaning behind what you bring home, so here’s where to look!

If you love the chaos and color of traditional markets, these are perfect for picking up spices, dried fruits, bamboo goods, and handmade souvenirs:

• Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City) – Classic, crowded, and iconic.

• Binh Tay Market (Ho Chi Minh City) – More local and less touristy.

• Tan Dinh Market (Ho Chi Minh City) – Known for fabric and local snacks

• Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi) – Hanoi’s largest indoor market.

• Hoi An Night Market (Hoi An) – Lantern heaven with handmade charm.

• Dam Market (Nha Trang) – Great for food products and crafts.

• Da Lat Market (Da Lat) – Known for dried fruits and local snacks.

Artisan Workshops & Craft Villages

For authentic, handmade finds like ceramics, lacquerware, and textiles, head to traditional villages or workshops.

These are the places where many of Vietnam’s iconic crafts are still made by hand, often using techniques passed down through generations. The quality tends to be better, and you get to support the makers directly.

Boutique Shops

Want something a little more curated? In cities like Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find boutique shops selling beautifully designed leather goods, lacquerware, and home decor.

While the price tags are higher, the quality, presentation, and originality often make it worth it, especially if you’re buying gifts.

Grocery Stores & Supermarkets

If you’re stocking up on sauces, teas, or packaged snacks like rice paper and candies, don’t overlook Vietnam’s grocery stores.

Chains like Lotte Mart, VinMart, and Co.op Mart are everywhere and offer local brands at great prices, way cheaper than airport souvenir stands.

Coffee Roasters & Cafés

Vietnamese coffee isn’t just something to sip, it’s something to bring home. For fresher, better-quality beans, skip the souvenir shelf and head to a local café or specialty roaster.

From Hanoi to Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh, most shops will sell their beans (sometimes even grind them for you) in travel-friendly packaging.

Tips for Purchasing Souvenirs in Vietnam

Shopping in Vietnam is exciting, but there are a few things to keep in mind to make sure you walk away with authentic, fairly priced items:

• Haggle (Politely): Negotiating, or haggling is part of the culture here. Locals do it with one another, and you’re expected to as well, especially in markets or shops where price tags aren’t displayed.

In fact, no price tag usually means you pay what you negotiate. The best approach? Go in with at least a rough idea of what you want and roughly how much your items should cost.

If you’re unsure, take a walk through the market, feel out the prices, and come back when you’ve got a better sense of what things should cost.

Start your offer low (about 50–60% of the asking price) and work your way up with a smile, most vendors are used to the dance of negotiating in a friendly, funny, and smiling manner!

• Inspect Quality: Not all items are created equal. Check stitching on leather goods, finishes on lacquerware, or expiry dates on food products. If it looks too mass-produced, it probably is.

• Pack Smart: Think about how you’ll get it home. Lanterns, conical hats, and pottery are fragile or oddly shaped, so plan accordingly (or consider shipping).

• Ask About Origins: Especially for “handmade” items, don’t be afraid to ask where or how it was made. Markets often mix local crafts with imported or factory-made versions.

• Buy from Artisan Shops When You Can: If you want to support local communities and get better quality, head to workshops or craft villages rather than tourist-heavy stalls.

Final Thoughts on What to Buy in Vietnam

Vietnam is one of those rare destinations where shopping genuinely feels like part of the cultural experience, not just a checklist.

Whether you’re wandering through a chaotic local market, sipping coffee while choosing beans to bring home, or chatting with a tailor in Hoi An, every purchase comes with a story.

From practical items like spices and leather goods to decorative keepsakes like lanterns and lacquerware, the variety of souvenirs to buy in Vietnam is unmatched.

The best part? Many of them are handmade, affordable, and deeply tied to Vietnamese traditions. Before diving in, it’s also worth knowing about a few scams in Vietnam to avoid, especially in tourist-heavy markets.

And while you’re at it, having a few helpful apps to download for Vietnam can seriously improve your shopping and travel experience.

A local brand I personally enjoy is TiredCity, they have shops in both Hanoi and Hoi An. I’ve picked up a few of their thick, 100% cotton tees over the years.

Not only is the quality great, but the brand supports local artists through their unique, Vietnam-inspired designs. If you’re after a wearable, high-grade souvenir (or a gift), this one’s worth checking out.

So take your time, explore your options, and enjoy the process. Vietnam has become one of those countries where I consistently end up buying things, whether it’s thoughtful gifts for others or something for myself.

It’s not just about ticking off souvenir checklists, shopping here feels personal, meaningful, and honestly, part of the whole travel experience.