The 10 Most Unique Things to Buy in Vietnam

Vietnam is a paradise for shoppers who are looking for unique, high-quality, and affordable products. First-time visitors to Vietnam may feel overwhelmed with the variety of things they can buy at different prices. This article will serve as a useful guide to help you decide what to bring home including the best places to buy these items, and what they will cost you.

Traditional Vietnamese Clothing

The ao dai is a traditional Vietnamese garment that combines grace and sophistication. The Ao Dai typically consists of a long, figure-flattering tunic worn over wide-legged pants, creating a harmonious silhouette. From vibrant floral patterns to delicate embroidery, these dresses come in various styles, each reflecting different regions and customs of Vietnam. Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer a plethora of boutiques and tailor shops where you can get a custom-made Ao Dai that perfectly captures your style.

Where to Find It:

Hanoi: Explore the Old Quarter and Dong Xuan Market for a wide selection of Ao Dai.
Hoi An: Visit the tailor shops in this charming town, known for its custom-made clothing.
Ho Chi Minh City: Explore bustling markets like Ben Thanh Market for ready-made Ao Dai options.

Average Price:

For a high-quality non-bespoke Ao Dai, prices typically range from $20 to $50, depending on the material and craftsmanship.

Silk Products

When it comes to elegance and luxury, Vietnamese silk is unparalleled. The country has a long-standing tradition of silk production, and the result is a wide range of stunning silk products. From shimmering dresses and tailored suits to silk scarves and handkerchiefs, Vietnam’s silk items showcase exquisite craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The silk weaving villages of Hoi An and Van Phuc are known for their premium-quality silk products, where you can witness the intricate process of silk production and choose from an array of vibrant colors and patterns.

Where to Find It:

Hoi An: The town’s silk village is famous for its silk products. You can even watch the silk-making process.
Hanoi: Explore Hang Gai Street (Silk Street) for a wide range of silk products.

Average Price:

Silk scarves can be found for as low as $5, while intricately designed garments may range from $20 to $100 or more.

Ceramic and Porcelain Items

If you’re a fan of ceramics, Vietnam offers an exquisite selection of pottery and porcelain products. With a history spanning centuries, Vietnamese ceramics are known for their elegance and artistic appeal. Hoi An and Bat Trang are two destinations famous for their ceramic and pottery villages, where you can witness the artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own masterpiece. From delicate teacups to ornate vases, these ceramic treasures are sure to add a touch of sophistication to your home décor.

Where to Find It:

Bat Trang: Visit this traditional ceramic village near Hanoi to witness the art of pottery making.
Hoi An: Explore the local pottery shops and galleries in the Ancient Town.

Average Price:

Prices for ceramic and porcelain items vary widely, with small dishes and bowls starting at $5, while larger vases and intricate figurines can range from $20 to $100 or more.

Rice Paper and Fish Sauce

No Vietnamese meal is complete without rice paper and fish sauce, two essential ingredients deeply rooted in the country’s culinary heritage. Rice paper, known for its versatility, serves as a wrapper for fresh spring rolls or a crispy base for savory dishes. When shopping for rice paper, look for thin, translucent sheets that are pliable and easy to work with.

Fish sauce, on the other hand, adds a savory depth to Vietnamese cuisine. It’s worth seeking out artisanal fish sauce, as it boasts a more complex flavor profile compared to the commercially produced varieties. Explore the local markets or specialty food stores for the best selection of rice paper and fish sauce.

Where to Find It:

Local Markets: Look for rice paper in local markets throughout Vietnam, where it’s readily available.
Hoi An: Visit specialty shops in Hoi An for a wide range of rice paper varieties.
Look for reputable brands such as “Phú Quốc,” “Three Crabs,” or “Red Boat.” These brands are known for their quality.

Average Price:

Rice paper is quite affordable, with prices typically ranging from $1 to $5 per packet.
In Vietnam, you can find a standard bottle of fish sauce (520ml) for as low as $2, while premium or artisanal options may range from $5 to $15 or more.

Spices and Herbs

Vietnam’s vibrant cuisine is famous for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. Bringing home a selection of Vietnamese spices and herbs is a fantastic way to recreate the country’s culinary magic in your own kitchen. Whether it’s the earthy fragrance of star anise, the fiery kick of chili peppers, or the refreshing aroma of lemongrass, each spice brings a unique element to Vietnamese dishes.

To ensure the highest quality, head to the local street markets or specialized spice shops, where you’ll find an extensive array of spices and herbs, often sourced directly from local farmers.

Average Price:

Prices for Vietnamese herbs and spices are generally affordable, with small packets or bundles starting at $1 and larger quantities available for a few dollars.

Handicrafts and Lacquerware

Vietnam’s handicrafts and lacquerware captivate visitors with their beauty and meticulous craftsmanship. Made using traditional techniques passed down through generations, these items carry with them the country’s cultural essence.

Whether it’s a lacquered bowl adorned with intricate designs or a wooden carving skillfully depicting Vietnamese legends, these handicrafts make for exceptional souvenirs. Keep an eye out for authentic pieces, as some mass-produced items can lack the same level of quality and aesthetic appeal.

Where to Find Them:

Local Markets: Explore bustling markets like Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City for a wide selection of handicrafts.
Artisan Villages: Visit traditional craft villages like Bat Trang (ceramics) and Phu Vinh (bamboo weaving) for authentic, locally made items.

Average Price:

Prices for Vietnamese handicrafts vary depending on the size, intricacy, and craftsmanship. Smaller items may start at $5, while larger, more elaborate pieces can range from $20 to several hundred dollars.

Coconut Candy

Vietnam’s tropical charm is not limited to its lush landscapes and pristine beaches; it also extends to its delightful coconut candy. While coconuts are synonymous with tropical fruits, in Vietnam, they are transformed into mouth watering sweets that capture the essence of this tropical paradise.

Vietnam’s coconut candy scene goes beyond the classic coconut flavor. Here, you’ll encounter a tantalizing array of options to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Where to Find It:

While Ben Tre is renowned as the heartland of coconut candy production, you don’t need to venture far to indulge in this tropical treat. Coconut candy is readily available in nearly every supermarket, grocery store, or tourist souvenir shop throughout Vietnam. You’ll find it displayed in colorful packaging, making it an attractive and convenient gift or personal indulgence.

Average Price:

The affordability of coconut candy makes it an accessible pleasure. Prices typically range from a mere $1.50 to $4 per person.

Non La

In the heart of Vietnam’s vibrant culture and traditions lies the iconic Non La, a conical hat that is as much a symbol of the country as it is a practical and stylish accessory. The Non La has a rich history and significance that goes beyond its distinctive appearance.

The Non La, often referred to as a “conical hat” or “palm-leaf hat,” is a traditional Vietnamese headwear piece made from bamboo, palm leaves, and other natural materials. Its unmistakable conical shape has become a symbol of Vietnamese culture, representing not only fashion but also practicality and heritage.

Where to Find:

Local Markets: You can find a wide selection of Non La hats in local markets throughout Vietnam. Markets like Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City are popular places to purchase Non La.
Craft Villages: For an authentic experience, consider visiting craft villages, especially in Hue and Thua Thien-Hue Province.

Vietnam Rice Wine

Rice wine plays a vital role in Vietnamese social and cultural gatherings. It is often shared during celebrations, family reunions, and festive occasions. The act of raising a glass of rice wine is a gesture of respect, hospitality, and camaraderie, making it an essential part of Vietnamese traditions.

Rice wine is also used in various ceremonies and rituals, such as weddings, ancestor worship, and important life events. It symbolizes unity, blessings, and the passage of generations.\

Where to Find It:

Distilleries and Wineries: Visiting rice wine distilleries and wineries in regions like Sapa and Ninh Binh allows you to witness the production process and sample freshly made rice wine.

Coffee

Vietnamese coffee is more than just beverages; it’s an integral part of the country’s culture and heritage. With a rich history and a unique approach to brewing, coffee would be the best gift to bring home for friends and family, also and a delightful way to elevate your day, is by indulging in the rich flavors of freshly brewed aromatic coffee beans.

Where to buy:

For top-quality coffee beans and grounds, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Lat are renowned as the prime destinations to make your purchase.

Average Price:

These premium coffee packages typically come in either one-kilogram or half-kilogram sizes, with prices varying between $7 and $25, depending on the brand and quality you choose.

As you embark on your shopping expedition in Vietnam, remember to engage with local artisans and shopkeepers, as they often have fascinating stories to share about the products they offer. Bargaining is also a common practice in Vietnamese markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices to ensure you get the best deals. Hope you will find meaningful gifts when visiting Vietnam and enjoy your wonderful time in the S-shaped strip of land!