Best Things to Buy in Vietnam: Complete Shopping Guide 2026

Vietnam is a treasure trove for shoppers, offering everything from ancient handicrafts passed down through generations to modern fashion at unbelievably affordable prices. Whether you're wandering through the chaotic yet charming streets of Hanoi's Old Quarter, exploring the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City, or discovering artisan villages in the countryside, you'll find yourself surrounded by unique items begging to be taken home.

But with so many options, what should you actually buy? After countless trips through this beautiful Southeast Asian country, I've compiled the ultimate guide to the best things to buy in Vietnam – items that are authentic, high-quality, and worth every dong you spend.

Traditional Vietnamese Handicrafts

Lacquerware: Vietnam's Ancient Art Form

Vietnamese lacquerware is nothing short of stunning. This centuries-old craft involves applying multiple layers of tree resin to wooden objects, creating glossy, durable pieces that can last for generations. You'll find everything from elegant jewelry boxes and decorative bowls to intricate wall panels and furniture.

Where to buy: The best lacquerware comes from traditional villages like Ha Thai near Hanoi. In the cities, head to reputable shops on Hang Khay Street in Hanoi or along Dong Khoi Street in Ho Chi Minh City.

Insider tip: Authentic lacquerware requires 30+ layers of resin and can take months to complete. If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is – cheap versions use synthetic materials that crack and fade.

Ceramics and Pottery

Vietnamese ceramics have been prized throughout Asia for over a thousand years. The most famous come from Bat Trang village, just 30 minutes from Hanoi, where you can watch artisans at work and even try your hand at the pottery wheel.

Look for:

Blue and white porcelain in traditional patterns
Celadon green glazed pieces
Contemporary designs from young Vietnamese artists
Decorative vases, tea sets, and tableware

Vietnamese Silk and Textiles

Silk Products

Vietnam produces some of the finest silk in Asia, and the prices are remarkably affordable compared to Western countries. Hoi An is the undisputed silk capital, where you can have custom clothing made in as little as 24 hours.

Popular silk purchases include:

Custom-tailored ao dai (traditional Vietnamese dress)
Silk scarves and shawls
Tailored suits, dresses, and shirts
Silk pajamas and robes

Pro tip: When getting clothes tailored in Hoi An, always schedule at least two fittings. Bring photos of exactly what you want, and don't be afraid to request adjustments. The best tailors include Yaly Couture, Be Be, and A Dong Silk.

Embroidered Goods

Hand-embroidered items showcase incredible Vietnamese craftsmanship. Look for:

Embroidered tablecloths and napkins
Decorative wall hangings
Traditional embroidered bags
Intricate silk paintings

Vietnamese Coffee and Tea

World-Famous Vietnamese Coffee

If you've ever tasted Vietnamese coffee – that rich, bold brew often served with sweetened condensed milk – you understand why it's become a global obsession. Vietnam is the world's second-largest coffee producer, and the beans here are exceptional.

Must-buy coffee products:

Robusta beans – Vietnam's specialty, known for strong, earthy flavors
Weasel coffee (Cà Phê Chồn) – The famous (and expensive) coffee made from beans eaten and excreted by civets
Traditional phin filters – The metal drip filters used to brew Vietnamese coffee
Pre-made cà phê sữa đá packets – Convenient iced coffee mixes

Best brands: Trung Nguyen, Highlands Coffee, and local roasters found in markets.

Premium Vietnamese Tea

Tea culture runs deep in Vietnam, particularly in the northern highlands. The most prized varieties include:

Lotus tea – Green tea infused with lotus flowers, a Hanoi specialty
Thai Nguyen green tea – Considered Vietnam's finest
Oolong tea from Da Lat – Grown in the cool Central Highlands
Artichoke tea – A unique herbal tea from Da Lat

Iconic Vietnamese Souvenirs

The Conical Hat (Nón Lá)

No souvenir is more quintessentially Vietnamese than the nón lá, the iconic conical hat worn by farmers, vendors, and locals throughout the country. These elegant palm leaf hats are both functional and beautiful.

For something special, look for nón bài thơ (poem hats) from Hue, which reveal hidden poetry when held up to sunlight.

Ao Dai

The ao dai, Vietnam's graceful national costume, makes a stunning souvenir. This form-fitting tunic worn over flowing pants comes in silk, cotton, or synthetic fabrics in endless colors and patterns. Having one custom-made is an unforgettable experience.

Propaganda Art and Posters

Vietnam's distinctive propaganda posters have become highly collectible. These bold, colorful prints featuring socialist realism imagery make unique wall art. You'll find reproductions everywhere, but for authentic vintage pieces, visit specialized galleries in Hanoi.

Food and Specialty Items

Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm)

The backbone of Vietnamese cuisine, high-quality fish sauce from Phu Quoc Island is liquid gold. Look for bottles labeled "Phu Quoc" with high protein content (40° or higher) for the best quality.

Spices and Seasonings

Phu Quoc pepper – Some of the world's finest black pepper
Cinnamon from the highlands
Star anise and dried herbs
Pho spice packets – Perfect for recreating Vietnam's famous soup at home

Dried Fruits and Snacks

Dried jackfruit, mango, and banana chips
Coconut candy from Ben Tre
Sesame candy and peanut brittle
Cashews (Vietnam is a major producer)

Art and Home Décor

Vietnamese Paintings

Vietnam has a thriving contemporary art scene. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City have numerous galleries showcasing everything from traditional silk paintings to cutting-edge modern art. Prices range from affordable prints to investment-worthy originals.

Bamboo and Rattan Products

Sustainable and beautiful, bamboo and rattan items include:

Baskets and storage containers
Furniture and home accessories
Lampshades and decorative pieces
Eco-friendly straws and utensils

Practical Shopping Tips for Vietnam

Bargaining Etiquette

Bargaining is expected in markets and small shops (but not in department stores or fixed-price boutiques). Here's how to do it respectfully:

Start at about 40-50% of the asking price
Be friendly and smile – it's a social interaction
Walk away if you can't agree – often the seller will call you back
Never bargain unless you intend to buy
Remember that a few dollars means more to the seller than to you

Where to Shop

Hanoi: Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market, Hang Gai Street (silk)
Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square, Dong Khoi Street
Hoi An: Ancient Town shops, Central Market, tailoring streets
Da Lat: Night market for local specialties

Avoiding Scams

Be wary of "antiques" – most are reproductions
Check silk quality by doing a burn test (real silk smells like burning hair)
Verify coffee authenticity by purchasing from reputable brands
Keep receipts for expensive purchases

Final Thoughts: What to Bring Home from Vietnam

Vietnam offers an incredible shopping experience that goes far beyond typical tourist souvenirs. The best purchases are those that capture the country's rich culture, skilled craftsmanship, and unique flavors.

My top recommendations for first-time visitors:

Custom-tailored silk clothing from Hoi An
High-quality Vietnamese coffee and a phin filter
Handcrafted lacquerware or ceramics
A beautiful conical hat
Phu Quoc fish sauce and local spices

Whatever you choose to buy, you'll be taking home a piece of Vietnam's heart and soul. Happy shopping, and remember – the memories you make while browsing bustling markets and chatting with local artisans are the most valuable souvenirs of all.

Have you shopped in Vietnam? Share your favorite finds in the comments below!

Best Things to Buy in Vietnam: A Complete Shopping Guide for 2026