Stunning view of the Golden Bridge at Ba Na Hills, Vietnam, featuring giant stone hands holding the bridge under a clear blue sky.

What to buy in Vietnam: Unique souvenirs and gifts

Vietnam is a shopper’s paradise. Amid the bustling streets of Hanoi and the charming ancient town of Hoi An, you’ll find an incredible variety of affordable, unique, and handmade goods. Here are some of the best things to pick up while visiting this scenic and beautiful Asian destination.

What to buy in Vietnam

1. Custom-made clothing and luxury fashion

Some of the world’s high-quality, affordable tailoring services can be found in Hoi An. There, you can get custom-made clothes and shoes. And there’s no limit either. Whether you want a simple dress, a bomber leather jacket you saw on Pinterest, or a three-piece suit, they will get it done for you within 24 hours.

In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you can find stylish clothes at affordable prices, especially if you’re looking for big-name brands.

2. Handmade tribal fabrics

Vietnam is home to many ethnic minorities, and each group has its own style of weaving and fabric production. These handmade tribal textiles are often created using methods passed down through generations. You can find these fabrics in markets across the country. If you are wondering what to buy in Vietnam that you can’t find anywhere else, consider these fabrics. They make stunning gifts or can be used to create unique home decor pieces.

3. Vietnamese coffee

Vietnam is world-renowned for its coffee, particularly its robusta beans, which are stronger and more bitter than the arabica variety. Grab a bag of locally sourced Vietnamese coffee beans for the coffee lovers in your life.

4. Local spices and snacks

Vietnamese cuisine is famous for its bold, aromatic flavors. Look for cinnamon, star anise, or chili sauces in local markets. You’ll also find a wide range of traditional snacks like dried fruits, crispy rice paper, and coconut candies.

5. Wooden handicrafts and baskets

Vietnam has an array of beautifully wooden products made by local artisans. This includes bowls, trays, and sculptures. Another fantastic option is handwoven baskets, often made from bamboo or rattan.

6. Ao Dai – the traditional Vietnamese dress

One of the most iconic symbols of Vietnam is the ao dai. It’s a long, flowing tunic worn over trousers. It has a graceful silhouette and comes in various colours. The ao dai can be found in most clothing markets and boutiques, with prices varying depending on the fabric and design. You can also get a custom-made one.

7. Ceramics and pottery

Vietnamese ceramics are another must-buy, especially those made in the Bat Trang village near Hanoi. They have been producing pottery for over 1,000 years. The collection includes beautifully designed vases, tea sets, and ornamental pieces.

8. Handmade leather goods

In Hoi An, you can get custom-made leather products, like bags, wallets, belts, and shoes. The craftsmanship is top-notch, and you can get custom pieces within a day or two at much lower prices than in Western countries.

9. Chocolates

Vietnamese chocolate might come as a pleasant surprise! The country’s growing cacao industry produces some high-quality, flavorful chocolates. Definitely try some.