Vietnam is one of the most exciting shopping destinations in Southeast Asia. As soon as you arrive in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll see why. You can wander through narrow lanes filled with silk scarves or explore indoor markets that sell everything from spices to shoes. Therefore, shopping in Vietnam is more than just making purchases. It’s about bargaining with friendly vendors, sampling street snacks between stalls, and finding unique gifts you won’t see at home. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to buy, know about top markets and malls, plus tips to help you make the most of your holiday.
Looking for... | Go here |
Souvenirs | Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City |
Tailored clothes | Hoi An |
Luxury shopping | Takashimaya Saigon Centre |
Cheap local goods | Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi |
Coffee & tea | Hanoi or Da Lat |
Family shopping | Aeon Mall |
Why Should Vietnam Shopping Be on Your Travel List?
Shopping in Vietnam is a unique blend of old and new. On one street, you might see women selling fabric by the metre. Just around the corner, there could be an air-conditioned mall filled with global fashion brands.
Every city has its own shopping personality, and prices stay friendly on almost everything. Add a lively bargaining culture, and it's easy to see why travellers always pack extra suitcase space. Ho Chi Minh City is still fondly called Saigon by locals and visitors alike, especially around its older markets and shopping streets.
What Are the Best Things to Buy in Vietnam?
Here is a quick look at the best things to buy in Vietnam, along with where to find them and what to expect to pay.
Item | Why Buy It | Best City | Price Range (USD) |
Vietnamese coffee | Bold, aromatic beans, a local daily ritual | Da Lat / Hanoi | $4 to $10 |
Silk scarves | Soft texture, traditional motifs | Hoi An / Hanoi | $4 to $16 |
Ao dai (tailored) | Iconic dress, made to fit in days | Hoi An | $20 to $120 |
Tailor-made suits or shoes | Custom fit, ready in 1–3 days | Hoi An | $60 to $200 |
Lacquerware | Glossy pieces with mother-of-pearl inlay | Hanoi | $8 to $85 |
Non la (conical hat) | Light, symbolic, easy to pack | Anywhere | $0.50 to $2 |
Pearl jewellery | Cultured pearls at good value | Phu Quoc | $10 to $100+ |
Silk lanterns | Handmade, colourful keepsake | Hoi An | $3 to $8 |
Ceramics | Smooth glazes, made in Bat Trang village | Hanoi | $3 to $30 |
Lotus or herbal tea | Floral aroma, calming taste | Hanoi / Da Lat | $2 to $6 |
Bamboo products | Eco-friendly home decor | Nationwide | $3 to $20 |
These are genuinely some of the good things to buy in Vietnam, whether you're shopping for yourself or picking up gifts for friends.
Best Markets for Shopping in Vietnam
Market | City | Best For | Bargaining |
Dong Xuan Market | Hanoi | Fabric, souvenirs, clothes | Moderate |
Ben Thanh Market | Ho Chi Minh City | Souvenirs, food | High |
Binh Tay Market | Ho Chi Minh City | Spices, dried goods | High |
Hoi An Night Market | Hoi An | Lanterns, silk | Moderate |
Con Market | Da Nang | Local food, crafts | Moderate |
Tribe Travel Tip: If you're visiting both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, shop for handicrafts and silk in Hanoi, then save fashion and modern brands for Ho Chi Minh City. This helps you avoid carrying fragile souvenirs throughout your holiday.
Best Shopping Malls in Vietnam
Vincom Center in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is a great place for international fashion brands, cosmetics, and family shopping.- Lotte Center Hanoi offers upscale fashion, a variety of dining options, and an observation deck with city views.
- Aeon Mall, found in several cities, is known for affordable shopping, groceries, and plenty of entertainment.
- Takashimaya Saigon Centre in Ho Chi Minh City is ideal if you’re looking for luxury brands, beauty products, and premium dining.
- Vincom Mega Mall Royal City in Hanoi combines shopping with fun attractions like an indoor water park and an ice rink.
If you need Western clothing sizes, malls are a good choice since these sizes can be harder to find in local markets.
Which City Is Best for Shopping in Vietnam?
City | Top Market | Top Mall | Must-Buy Item |
Hanoi | Dong Xuan Market | Vincom Center | Silk & lacquerware |
Ho Chi Minh City | Ben Thanh Market | Takashimaya Saigon Centre | Ao dai & coffee |
Hoi An | Hoi An Night Market | - | Tailored clothes & lanterns |
Da Nang | Con Market | Vincom Plaza | Beachwear & dried seafood |
What Is the Best Time for Shopping in Vietnam?
- Morning, between 9 and 11 AM: markets are less crowded and easier to browse
- Evening: the best time for night markets, once stalls light up
- November to April: comfortable weather for walking between stalls
- Avoid shopping right before or during Tet (Lunar New Year), when many shops close
How to Bargain at a Vietnam Shopping Market
- Begin by offering about 40 to 50 percent of the seller’s asking price.
- Stay friendly and keep a smile on your face while you negotiate.
- If you buy several items from the same seller, you can often get a better deal.
- Be prepared to walk away if the price isn’t right. Vendors often call you back with a better offer.
Vietnam Shopping Tips for First-Time Visitors
- It's easiest to use cash at markets and small shops, while malls and bigger stores usually accept cards.
- If you want to avoid crowds, try shopping on weekday mornings instead of weekends.
- Remember to keep your receipts when you buy expensive items such as silk or jewellery.
- Take a close look at items before you buy them, especially things like silk and electronics.
Vietnam Shopping Budget: How Much Should You Spend?
Budget (USD) | Ideal For |
$40 to $80 | Souvenirs & snacks |
$120 to $200 | Clothes & gifts |
$200+ | Tailoring, pearls & premium shopping |
Common Shopping Mistakes to Avoid in Vietnam
- Make sure to check prices at several stalls before you buy anything.
- Try to bargain, even just a little, as it can help you save money.
- Be careful with branded goods, as many are likely to be fake.
- Bring some cash with you to markets, since many places do not accept cards.
- Check airline and customs rules before buying liquids or food items to avoid problems when traveling.
Final Thoughts
The best souvenirs are often the ones with a story behind them, whether it's a handmade lantern, a bag of locally roasted coffee, or a custom outfit stitched just for you. Vietnam shopping is as much about the experience as the purchases, with lively markets, friendly bargaining, and unique local finds around every corner. Holiday Tribe can help you plan a Vietnam itinerary that includes the country's best shopping spots along with its must-visit attractions.
