26 Oct, 2025
When you travel to Vietnam, you’ll surely fall in love with its breathtaking landscapes, friendly people, and rich culture. And of course, you’ll want to take a piece of that beauty home with you, something that captures the spirit of this incredible country. If you’re wondering what to buy in Vietnam, there are countless options that reflect its unique charm and traditions.
But with so many choices, it can be hard to know where to start. From delicious local treats to elegant handicrafts, souvenirs in Vietnam come in many forms, each telling a story of the land and its people. Whether you’re shopping in bustling markets or small artisan villages, you’ll find a variety of unique and meaningful items to take home. Let’s explore some of the best souvenirs in Vietnam and discover what to buy in Vietnam for your friends, family, or even yourself!
Vietnam is a land of artistry, where everyday objects are crafted with patience, precision, and soul. From glossy lacquerware to glowing lanterns, souvenirs in Vietnam reflect a deep cultural identity and generations of craftsmanship. Whether you’re looking for elegant home décor or meaningful keepsakes, these art forms beautifully capture the country’s creative spirit, a perfect answer for those wondering what to buy in Vietnam.
Vietnam’s handicrafts are deeply tied to its traditions and rural life. Each item is handmade with care, reflecting the skill and soul of local artisans. Whether you visit the northern villages, the central ancient towns, or the floating markets of the Mekong, you’ll find artistry everywhere, making souvenirs in Vietnam not just objects, but stories of culture, heritage, and heart.
One of the most practical and sustainable souvenirs you can bring home.
At PhuHao, we work with local artisans to create eco-friendly baskets and home décor made from rattan, bamboo, water hyacinth, and coir. These natural materials are woven into elegant baskets, trays, and organizers, perfect for home decoration, storage, or gifting. Each piece represents Vietnamese craftsmanship and sustainable living.
Vietnamese lacquerware is one of the nation’s finest traditional arts. Each piece, from trays and vases to jewelry boxes, is created through a detailed process of applying multiple layers of natural resin, polishing, and painting by hand. The result is a glossy, mirror-like surface that often features intricate mother-of-pearl or eggshell inlays. Authentic lacquerware from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City makes for a luxurious and timeless souvenir.
For centuries, Vietnamese artisans have mastered the art of pottery. Villages like Bát Tràng (near Hanoi) and Bình Dương are famous for their ceramic traditions. Each piece, be it a teapot, vase, or decorative plate, carries unique patterns, glazes, and textures. Handcrafted ceramics make perfect gifts and add a touch of Vietnamese warmth to any home.
Nothing captures the charm of Vietnam quite like the colorful lanterns of Hoi An. Traditionally made from bamboo frames and silk fabric, these lanterns come in various shapes and vibrant colors. Hanging one in your home brings not only beauty but also good fortune, as locals believe lanterns symbolize happiness and prosperity.
Vietnamese artists draw inspiration from everyday life, from rice fields and markets to countryside scenes. Watercolor and oil paintings are popular souvenirs, offering a glimpse of the country’s soul. You can find affordable art prints at galleries and markets in Hanoi, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City.
Originating from northern Vietnam, water puppetry is a traditional performance art that dates back to the 11th century. Artisans carve and paint wooden puppets, which come to life on water during storytelling shows. Miniature water puppets are fun, unique souvenirs that reflect one of Vietnam’s most beloved cultural traditions.
More than beautiful writing, calligraphy in Vietnam embodies philosophy and expression. During Lunar New Year, calligraphers write meaningful words like “Peace,” “Luck,” or “Prosperity” on red paper as blessings. These artworks make elegant and symbolic gifts.
Vietnam’s tropical nature and traditional medicine inspire a wide range of natural personal care and herbal beauty products. These souvenirs are small, light, and perfect for anyone who loves wellness and self-care.
Locally made soaps crafted from coconut oil, turmeric, coffee, bamboo charcoal and green tea are both practical and beautifully scented. They’re gentle on the skin and made with love using age-old recipes.
Bring home soothing lemongrass, peppermint, or cinnamon essential oils, perfect for aromatherapy or massages. You’ll also find the iconic Cao Sao Vàng (Golden Star Balm) — a traditional herbal balm that’s been loved for generations.
In recent years, Vietnamese beauty brands have gained attention for blending traditional ingredients with modern skincare science. Try these local favorites:
Cocoon Vietnam: 100% vegan and cruelty-free, using ingredients like coffee, pomelo, and winter melon.
Skinna: Features natural extracts of passion fruit, turmeric, and rice bran.
Herbario: Offers handmade soaps and essential oils with a minimalist design.
Cỏ Mềm (Soft Grass): A beloved brand known for herbal shampoo and balms made with traditional methods.
For food lovers, Vietnam is nothing short of paradise. Every region brings its own unique flavors from the rich aroma of coffee in the highlands to the sweet coconut treats of the Mekong Delta. Bringing home a few local specialties lets you relive those memories long after your trip ends.
Vietnamese coffee is world-famous for its bold, smooth taste and unique brewing style. You can buy ground or whole-bean coffee along with a phin filter, the traditional stainless-steel dripper, to recreate your own cà phê sữa đá (iced coffee with condensed milk) at home.
Vietnam is the second-largest coffee producer in the world, and each type of coffee bean offers a distinctive flavor:
Robusta: The most common variety in Vietnam, known for its strong aroma, deep flavor, and higher caffeine content. It’s what gives Vietnamese coffee its signature boldness.
Arabica: Grown mostly in the cool highlands of Da Lat, Arabica beans have a lighter, smoother, and more fragrant taste, ideal for those who enjoy a gentler cup.
Culi (Peaberry): A rare bean type where only one seed forms inside the cherry, giving it an intense and slightly nutty flavor.
Weasel Coffee (Cà Phê Chồn): One of the most exclusive and expensive varieties, made from beans naturally fermented after being eaten and excreted by civet cats. It’s rich, smooth, and a truly unique souvenir for coffee enthusiasts.
Instant Vietnamese Coffee: Convenient and surprisingly good! Many local brands now offer instant versions that capture the signature Vietnamese taste, perfect for quick enjoyment anywhere.
From the highlands of Buôn Ma Thuột to the cool hills of Da Lat, Vietnamese coffee reflects the soul of the country, strong, warm, and unforgettable.
Tea holds a special place in Vietnamese daily life; it’s more than just a drink; it’s a symbol of hospitality, mindfulness, and connection. When visiting Vietnam, you’ll find a wide variety of teas, each with its own aroma, story, and regional origin. They make wonderful souvenirs, light to pack, beautifully fragrant, and deeply tied to Vietnamese tradition.
One of Vietnam’s most elegant teas, lotus tea is made by infusing green tea leaves with the delicate scent of lotus flowers. Traditionally, artisans place tea leaves inside fresh lotus blossoms overnight to absorb the natural fragrance. The result is a smooth, floral, and subtly sweet tea that represents purity and serenity, perfect for gifting or enjoying during peaceful moments at home.
Vietnamese green tea is simple yet deeply rooted in everyday life. Grown in the northern provinces like Thai Nguyen, it’s known for its refreshing, slightly bitter taste and energizing aroma. Locals often serve green tea to guests as a warm welcome or enjoy it throughout the day as a calming companion.
Jasmine tea blends high-quality green tea with jasmine blossoms, creating a light, floral brew that’s both soothing and refreshing. Its gentle fragrance and delicate taste make it one of the most popular teas for relaxation and conversation.
Artichoke tea, a specialty from Da Lat in the Central Highlands of Vietnam, is cherished for its health benefits and unique flavor. Made from dried artichoke buds, stems, or leaves, it has a naturally sweet and earthy taste. This tea is known to detoxify the liver, aid digestion, and promote better sleep, and locals enjoy it both hot and cold.
Each of these teas represents a piece of Vietnam’s culture, from the tranquil lotus ponds of Hanoi to the cool mountains of Da Lat. Bringing them home means adding a taste of Vietnamese warmth, tradition, and wellness to your everyday life.
Want to bring the taste of Vietnam into your kitchen? Pick up local lemongrass powder, chili flakes, black pepper, or even a bottle of authentic fish sauce. These staples are key to recreating beloved dishes like phở, bún thịt nướng, and cơm tấm at home.
Don’t miss Saigon cinnamon (quế Sài Gòn), one of the most aromatic cinnamons in the world. Grown mainly in central and southern Vietnam, it has a sweet, spicy, and slightly woody flavor that’s perfect for both savory dishes and desserts. Unlike ordinary cinnamon, Saigon cinnamon is naturally high in essential oils, giving it a warm, intense fragrance that lingers beautifully in every recipe.
Whether you’re seasoning grilled meats, flavoring soups, or baking, these Vietnamese spices bring home the essence of the country’s rich and diverse cuisine.
If you enjoy healthy and flavorful snacks, Vietnamese dried fruits are a must-try. Thanks to its tropical climate, Vietnam produces a wide variety of delicious fruits that are naturally sweet, fragrant, and vibrant in color. Local producers carefully dry these fruits to preserve their taste and nutrients, making them perfect for on-the-go snacking or as gifts for friends.
You’ll find plenty of options at markets and souvenir shops:
Dried Mango (Xoài Sấy): Soft, chewy, and naturally sweet, this is one of the most popular choices for travelers.
Dried Jackfruit (Mít Sấy): Crispy and fragrant, this golden fruit is a favorite local snack, often compared to tropical chips.
Dried Banana (Chuối Sấy): Sweet and crunchy, made from ripe bananas fried or baked until perfectly golden.
Dried Pineapple (Thơm Sấy): A bright, tangy treat that adds a burst of flavor to any mix.
Dried Coconut (Dừa Sấy): Thinly sliced and lightly toasted, offering a rich tropical aroma.
Dried Dragon Fruit (Thanh Long Sấy): Beautifully pink and subtly sweet, a unique and eye-catching snack.
Vietnam offers a variety of delicious dried vegetable snacks for those who enjoy savory options. You can find crispy snacks made from locally grown vegetables, including okra, sweet potatoes, taro, purple yams, and lotus root chips. These crunchy treats are lightly seasoned to preserve their natural flavors and colors, making them a guilt-free option for vegetable lovers.
Many Vietnamese dried fruit and vegetable products are made without preservatives or added sugars, making them a healthier and more natural alternative to imported snacks. You can discover beautifully packaged versions in supermarkets, airports, or local specialty shops, perfect as gifts that showcase the sweet and savory flavors of Vietnam.
A humble yet beloved treat from Hai Duong province. These soft, crumbly cakes are made from mung beans, sugar, and oil, simple ingredients that create a comforting, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
No trip to the Mekong Delta is complete without trying coconut candy from Bến Tre. Made from coconut milk and malt syrup, these chewy candies capture the sweetness and warmth of southern Vietnam.
For adventurous foodies, bánh pía from Sóc Trăng is a must-try. This layered pastry filled with mung bean, salted egg yolk, and durian has a distinctive aroma and flavor, a combination that’s uniquely Vietnamese!
Vietnam’s textile tradition is as colorful and diverse as the country itself. From elegant silk garments to vibrant tribal patterns, these fashion treasures reflect the skill and creativity of Vietnamese artisans. Bringing one home means carrying a piece of the country’s artistry and culture with you.
The Áo Dài is Vietnam’s most iconic outfit, graceful, elegant, and rich in meaning. It’s often worn on special occasions, weddings, or festivals, symbolizing femininity and national pride. You can have one custom-made to your measurements in cities like Hanoi, Hue, or Ho Chi Minh City for a perfect fit and a meaningful souvenir.
Vietnamese silk is soft, lightweight, and beautifully woven. In traditional villages like Van Phuc near Hanoi, artisans have been making silk for centuries using age-old techniques. Scarves, ties, and pillow covers made from Vietnamese silk are luxurious yet affordable keepsakes.
Lotus silk is one of the world’s rarest fabrics, made from the delicate fibers inside lotus stems. This eco-friendly, handwoven textile feels smooth like linen and carries a subtle natural fragrance. Buying a lotus silk scarf or shawl means owning a truly unique piece of Vietnamese craftsmanship.
In Vietnam, embroidery is more than decoration; it’s storytelling through thread. Skilled artisans create detailed patterns featuring flowers, birds, and rural landscapes. You can find hand-embroidered pillowcases, wall hangings, and garments in many souvenir shops or artisan villages.
Simple yet charming, these traditional wooden sandals were once an everyday item for Vietnamese women. Today, they’re a nostalgic and stylish gift that connects you with the country’s heritage.
If you travel to northern Vietnam to places like Sapa, Ha Giang, or Mai Chau, you’ll find colorful tribal textiles made by ethnic minorities such as the Hmong and Dao people. These handwoven fabrics are rich in cultural patterns and are often used for bags, scarves, or home décor.
Vietnam’s coastal regions, especially Phu Quoc and Ha Long Bay, are known for high-quality pearl jewelry, elegant and timeless gifts. Meanwhile, the northern hill tribes craft stunning silver jewelry, each piece bearing unique ethnic motifs and handmade precision.
Shopping in Vietnam is more than just buying souvenirs; it’s an adventure filled with colors, aromas, and smiles. Whether you’re exploring bustling markets or boutique craft stores, here are a few tips to make your shopping experience smooth, fun, and rewarding.
A simple “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (How much?) or “Cảm ơn!” (Thank you!) can go a long way. Locals appreciate when travelers make an effort, and you’ll often be met with friendlier smiles, sometimes even better prices!
In traditional markets, bargaining is part of the culture. Start by offering about 60–70% of the first quoted price, then smile and negotiate from there. Always keep it friendly; a light-hearted approach usually works best.
For food items like coffee, tea, spices, or dried fruit, check the packaging for labels, expiry dates, and vacuum sealing. Premium products often come from reputable brands or certified producers, especially for Phú Quốc fish sauce, Bến Tre coconut products, or Đà Lạt tea and coffee.
Vietnam has a rich tradition of handicrafts — from Hoi An lanterns to lacquerware, ceramics, and woven baskets. Whenever possible, buy directly from small workshops or fair-trade stores. Your purchase supports local artisans and helps preserve traditional craft villages.
Markets like Bến Thành (Ho Chi Minh City) and Đồng Xuân (Hanoi) are famous, but don’t miss smaller, lesser-known markets or craft villages such as Bát Tràng (ceramics), Kim Bồng (woodwork), or Thanh Hà (pottery). These spots often offer more authentic finds and lower prices.
Some souvenirs, like rattan baskets or lacquerware, can be bulky. If you plan to shop big, consider bringing a foldable duffel bag or leaving extra space in your suitcase. For fragile items, ask sellers to wrap them securely or use carry-on protection.
While credit cards are accepted in larger stores and malls, cash (Vietnamese dong) is preferred in local markets. Keep smaller bills handy, as vendors may not have change for large notes.
We’d love to connect with you! Whether you’re looking to explore authentic souvenirs in Vietnam, discover unique handicrafts, or learn more about what to buy in Vietnam, our team is here to help.
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Discover the beauty of Vietnam through our handcrafted collections — made with heart, heritage, and artistry.
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