10 Best Things to Buy in Vietnam: Your Insider’s Guide to Authentic Souvenirs

Vietnam’s authentic treasures hide beyond crowded tourist markets filled with mass-produced souvenirs. The 10 best things to buy in Vietnam represent centuries of craftsmanship and cultural heritage that tell genuine stories. This guide reveals where authentic Vietnamese products actually exist, how to identify quality pieces, and what constitutes fair value. These selections support local artisans while ensuring your purchases carry real cultural significance.

Why is Vietnam a Shopping Paradise? 

Vietnam’s markets and workshops offer an unbeatable treasure trove of genuine products, from custom áo dài stitching to coffee beans straight from highland plantations. Shopping in Vietnam is about much, much more than buying souvenirs—it’s about interacting directly with skilled craftsmen, valuing cultural significance, and buying good products that are accompanied by true stories.

This insider’s guide to Vietnam’s top 10 must-buy products combines generations of insider knowledge and hands-on advice on where to buy authentic products, where to look for the real deal, and what’s good value. Every suggestion supports local communities while representing Vietnam’s diverse cultural heritage.

The 10 Best Things to Buy in Vietnam

1. Áo Dài (Traditional Vietnamese Dress)

The áo dài is Vietnam’s most elegant representative of culture—a slim-fitting tunic and loose trousers which possess classic poise and great cultural heritage. The national attire is an unheard-of souvenir or commemorative event dress.

Where to Buy:

• Hoi An (Tailoring Capital): Yaly Couture (47 Nguyen Thai Hoc St.) offers custom fits completed in 1-2 days with skilled artisans
• Hanoi: Nguyen Bridal (28 Hang Bong St.) specializes in traditional designs with authentic patterns

Quality Indicators:

• High-quality silk or cotton blends that feel smooth and lightweight
• Precise tailoring with clean seams and proper fit
• Authentic fabrics with natural sheen and breathability
• Avoid pre-made versions in tourist markets using synthetic materials

Price Range: 1,000,000-3,000,000 VNĐ for custom áo dài

Insider Tips:

• Request at least two fittings for perfect customization
• Choose traditional patterns for cultural authenticity or modern styles for versatility
• Negotiate gently, but expect fixed prices at reputable tailors who value their craftsmanship

2. Vietnamese Coffee & Equipment

Vietnam’s coffee culture, rooted in robusta beans from the Central Highlands, has gained worldwide recognition. Authentic Vietnamese coffee offers rich, bold flavors that reflect the country’s agricultural heritage.

Where to Buy:

• Hanoi: Dong Xuan Market for authentic brands like Trung Nguyen or Highlands Coffee
• Ho Chi Minh City: Ben Thanh Market for traditional phin filters
• Specialty: Phuc Long shops for guaranteed authenticity

Premium Options:

• Weasel coffee (cà phê chồn) from civet-processed beans
• Look for origin certificates from reputable farms in Dak Lak
• Beware of fake versions; authentic weasel coffee comes with detailed provenance

Price Range:

• Coffee beans: 100,000-300,000 VNĐ/kg
• Weasel coffee: 1,500,000-3,000,000 VNĐ/kg
• Phin filter: 50,000-100,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Check for sealed packaging with clear origin details
• Test coffee freshness by detecting strong, nutty aromas
• Buy from specialty shops for guaranteed authenticity

3. Lacquerware & Mother-of-Pearl Items

Vietnam’s lacquerware showcases centuries-old craftsmanship with glossy finishes and intricate mother-of-pearl inlays. These pieces represent some of the country’s most sophisticated artistic traditions.

Where to Buy:

• Hanoi Old Quarter: Hanoi Lacquer Shop (17 Hang Bac St.) for authentic pieces.
• Bat Trang Village: Direct from artisans for unique designs and better prices.

Quality Indicators:

• Multiple lacquer layers (10-15 for premium quality)
• Smooth inlays without cracks or rough edges
• Deep, lustrous finish that reflects light evenly
• Avoid mass-produced versions lacking depth and durability

Price Range:

• Small items (bowls, boxes): 200,000-500,000 VNĐ
• Larger pieces (trays, paintings): 1,000,000-5,000,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Ask vendors about the number of lacquer layers applied
• Wrap items carefully for shipping with bubble wrap protection
• Shop at Bat Trang Village for direct artisan interaction

4. Silk Products (Scarves, Clothing, Accessories)

Vietnam’s silk, particularly from Van Phuc village near Hanoi, is renowned for its exceptional sheen and durability. These pieces represent generations of weaving expertise.

Where to Buy:

• Van Phuc Silk Village: 10 km from Hanoi for scarves, dresses, and ties from generational weavers
• Hoi An: Be Be Tailor (11 Hoang Dieu St.) for quality silk products

Authenticity Tests:

• Real silk feels soft, cool, and slightly textured
• Burn test: authentic silk smells like burnt hair
• Handwoven patterns indicate superior authenticity
• Avoid shops pushing synthetic blends

Price Range:

• Scarves: 150,000-400,000 VNĐ
• Clothing: 500,000-2,000,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Look for handwoven patterns for authenticity
• Negotiate at markets, expect fixed prices at reputable shops
• Pack silk in breathable bags to prevent moisture damage

5. Conical Hats (Nón Lá)

The nón lá serves as both functional headwear and cultural symbol, representing Vietnam’s agricultural heritage and practical craftsmanship.

Where to Buy:

• Hue: Phu Cam Village for authentic versions from skilled artisans
• Best place for cultural authenticity and traditional craftsmanship

Quality Indicators:

• Tightly woven palm leaves with sturdy bamboo frames
• Glossy finish indicating proper treatment and durability
• Poetic inscriptions or embroidery inside reflecting regional craftsmanship
• Avoid tourist versions using thin plastic materials

Price Range: 50,000-150,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Choose hats with glossy finish for longevity
• Pack flat in hard suitcase to prevent crushing
• Buy from village artisans for best value and authenticity

6. Traditional Handicrafts & Ceramics

Vietnam’s handicrafts reflect its diverse cultural heritage, from Bat Trang ceramics to ethnic minority textiles rich with cultural meaning.

Where to Buy:

• Bat Trang Pottery Village: 15 km from Hanoi for hand-painted vases and teapots
• Sapa Markets: H’Mong and Dao embroidery with cultural significance

Quality Indicators:

• Smooth glazes and intricate designs on ceramics
• Even glazing without cracks or imperfections
• Authentic textiles with traditional patterns and natural dyes

Price Range:

• Ceramics: 100,000-1,000,000 VNĐ
• Textiles: 200,000-500,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Check ceramics for even glazing and structural integrity
• Ask about textile origins to ensure authenticity
• Use padded packaging for ceramics during travel

7. Vietnamese Spices & Condiments

Vietnam’s culinary excellence shines through its spices and condiments, particularly nước mắm (fish sauce) and specialized spice blends that define Vietnamese cuisine.

Where to Buy:

• Phu Quoc Island: Premium fish sauce production center
• Cholon Market (Ho Chi Minh City): Quality spices and condiments
• Dong Ba Market (Hue): Authentic local varieties

Quality Indicators:

• Fish sauce: dark amber color with 35-40% protein content
• Vacuum-sealed bottles to prevent leaks
• Clear ingredient lists on spice packaging

Price Range:

• Fish sauce (1L): 50,000-200,000 VNĐ
• Spice blends: 20,000-50,000 VNĐ/pack

Insider Tips:

• Choose vacuum-sealed bottles for fish sauce transport
• Check spice packaging for clear ingredient lists
• Declare condiments at customs for international compliance

8. Ao Ba Ba Pants & Casual Wear

Ao ba ba pants offer comfortable, lightweight clothing perfect for travelers seeking style and comfort. These loose-fitting garments represent practical Vietnamese fashion.

Where to Buy:

• Hoi An: Lan Huong Tailor (9 Tran Phu St.) for durable versions in cotton or linen blends

Quality Indicators:

• Double-stitched seams for durability
• Breathable fabrics suitable for various climates
• Custom adjustments for Western sizing

Price Range: 200,000-500,000 VNĐ/pair

Insider Tips:

• Request fitting for Western body type adjustments
• Allow 1-2 days for tailoring completion
• Choose neutral colors for maximum versatility

9. Jade & Silver Jewelry

Vietnam’s jade and hill tribe silver jewelry carry deep cultural significance, especially H’Mong and Dao pieces that represent ethnic heritage.

Where to Buy:

• Sapa: Authentic H’Mong and Dao pieces
• Hanoi: Ngoc Anh Jewelry (36 Hang Bac St.) for trusted silver pieces

Authenticity Tests:

• Jade feels cool and heavy; tap for clear, resonant sound
• Silver: look for 925 stamps from trusted jewelers
• Avoid street vendors with suspiciously cheap prices

Price Range:

• Jade bangles: 300,000-1,500,000 VNĐ
• Silver jewelry: 200,000-800,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Request authenticity certificates for jade purchases
• Choose simple designs for daily wear versatility
• Store in soft pouches to prevent scratching

10. Vietnamese Art & Propaganda Posters

Vietnamese art captures the country’s history and spirit, from vibrant propaganda posters to contemporary works that reflect cultural evolution.

Where to Buy:

• Hanoi: 39 Gallery (39 Ly Quoc Su) for authentic vintage posters
• Ho Chi Minh City: Apricot Gallery for contemporary works by artists like Nguyen Thanh Binh

Quality Indicators:

• Vintage posters: old paper and original printing techniques
• Contemporary art: artist background and authenticity verification
• Avoid common reproductions without provenance

Price Range:

• Vintage posters: 500,000-2,000,000 VNĐ
• Contemporary art: 1,000,000-5,000,000 VNĐ

Insider Tips:

• Request unframed posters for easier transport
• Use acid-free tubes to preserve artwork
• Ask about artist background for authenticity verification

Expert Shopping Strategies

Negotiation Tactics

Bargaining remains common in Vietnam’s markets, but approach it with cultural respect. Start at 50-60% of quoted prices and settle around 70-80%. For skilled artisans in places like Bat Trang or Sapa, avoid heavy negotiation—fair prices support their craftsmanship.

Cultural Guidelines:

• Smile and maintain politeness during negotiations
• Avoid haggling at fixed-price shops or artisan stalls
• Walk away respectfully if prices don’t align with your budget
• Shop in morning for better deals (vendors believe early sales bring luck)

Quality Assessment Tips

Spotting authentic Vietnamese products requires careful observation. Ask vendors about item origins—genuine artisans share details proudly. Red flags include unreasonably low prices, plastic-like textures, or lack of craftsmanship details.

Authenticity Checks:

• Silk: Burn test reveals burnt hair smell for authentic silk
• Jade: Tap for clear, resonant sound
• Ceramics: Look for smooth, even glazes without imperfections
• Lacquerware: Count visible layers and check for smooth inlays

Practical Considerations

Shipping Guidelines:

• Use Vietnam Post or DHL for fragile items
• Costs: 500,000-2,000,000 VNĐ depending on weight
• Check customs regulations for food items like fish sauce

Packing Tips:

• Use padded bags for ceramics and lacquerware
• Store silk and textiles in breathable bags to prevent mold
• Consider travel insurance for high-value purchases

Regional Shopping Insights

• Hanoi: Best for lacquerware, silk, and ceramics. Visit Dong Xuan Market or Bat Trang Village for authentic finds with traditional craftsmanship.
• Ho Chi Minh City: Offers modern and diverse selections at Ben Thanh Market and Cholon Market, but remains aware of inflated tourist prices.
• Hoi An: The tailoring capital, ideal for áo dài and silk at established shops like Yaly Couture or Be Be Tailor. Quality varies significantly.
• Sapa: Perfect for ethnic minority textiles and silver jewelry at Sapa Market, with authentic H’Mong and Dao crafts supporting local communities.

Seasonal Timing:

• Spring (March-May): New silk and textile designs
• September: Vibrant Sapa market days during harvest season

Practical Shopping Guide

Budget Allocation

• Clothing and silk: 1,000,000-3,000,000 VNĐ
• Souvenirs (ceramics, hats): 200,000-1,000,000 VNĐ
• Food items (coffee, spices): 100,000-500,000 VNĐ

Time Management

• Hanoi markets: 2-3 hours for thorough exploration
• Hoi An tailoring: 1-2 days for proper fittings
• Sapa or Bat Trang visits: Half-day trips for authentic experiences

Cultural Etiquette

• Greet vendors with smile and “Chào”
• Respect artisan pricing to support their craft
• Avoid touching items unless genuinely interested in purchasing

Conclusion

The 10 best things to buy in Vietnam represent authentic connections to Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. By choosing quality pieces from trusted artisans, you’ll bring home meaningful treasures that carry genuine stories of Vietnamese craftsmanship.

Explore Vietnam’s markets with confidence in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Hoi An’s tailor shops, or Sapa’s vibrant ethnic markets. Authentic Vietnamese products support local communities, preserve traditional crafts, and offer superior quality that mass-produced alternatives simply cannot match.

For expert-guided shopping experiences and authentic cultural tours throughout Vietnam, visit Absolute Asia Travel to discover Vietnam’s hidden treasures with local expertise.