*This article may contain affiliate links. For full information, please see the disclaimer here.
Vietnam is a Southeast Asian gem that’s steadily welcoming more tourists each year. With its breathtaking rice terraces and limestone caves, delicious food, vibrant cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, and fascinating history, it’s no surprise that this country is getting the attention it deserves.
Having visited several times, I can tell you that Vietnam has given me some of my most unforgettable experiences. And I’m able to go back to these memories from time to time — thanks to my travel photos and my collection of souvenirs from Vietnam.
If you’re visiting Vietnam soon and you’d like to keep a tangible piece of your travel memories, you’re in the right place. Below is a comprehensive list of handcrafted goods, traditional clothing, food souvenirs, and other treats you can buy for your family, friends, and loved ones. And if you’re like me, I suggest buying keepsakes for yourself too!
Table of Contents
Vietnamese clothing and accessories
1. Non la (conical hats)
When you think of souvenirs from Vietnam, conical cats are probably the first thing that comes to mind. Known in Vietnamese as non la, these hats are iconic symbols of Vietnam.
These traditional hats are made from bamboo or palm leaves and are woven into a cone shape. They are not only functional, protecting wearers from the sun and rain, but also a beautiful and practical accessory. They come in various sizes and colors, with some adorned with intricate patterns or embroidery.
2. Ao dai (Vietnamese traditional clothing)
Kimono, plaid and kilt, hanbok, sari… national costumes always make for fun souvenirs! And when traveling in Vietnam, expect to be captivated by the Vietnamese traditional clothing known as ao dai.
This traditional dress, often made from silk or linen, features a long, flowing outer robe and fitted pants. It’s typically adorned with intricate embroidery or patterns. Women wear ao dai for weddings, Tet (Lunar New Year), and other formal occasions, but the attire is also commonly worn in photo shoots.
Nowadays, we see Vietnamese women wearing ao dai. But ao dai’s early versions were more unisex in style and worn by both men and women. In recent years though, Vietnam has seen the revival of ao dai for men. So, feel free to gift a pair to your loved ones, even to the male ones!
3. Silk scarves
Vietnam has long been renowned for its exquisite silk, proof of the country’s rich textile heritage. Woven with meticulous craftsmanship and using high-quality silkworms, Vietnamese silk is prized for its softness, luster, and durability.
While silk dresses are definitely timeless, if you want something more budget-friendly, go for Vietnamese silk scarves. Crafted from the finest silk threads, these scarves come in vibrant colors and are intricately designed — an instant upgrade to any outfit. These versatile accessories can be worn in countless ways, whether as a necktie, shawl, or even a belt.
4. Vietnamese footwear
Vietnam is home to a rich tradition of footwear, with two iconic styles standing out: the guoc moc and dep lop.
Guoc moc are traditional wooden clogs, often carved with intricate designs. They offer a unique and comfortable walking experience, reminiscent of a bygone era. Dep lop or tire sandals, on the other hand, are a more recent invention, born out of necessity during wartime. Made from recycled tires, these sturdy and durable sandals offer a practical and eco-friendly option.
Both guoc moc and dep lop are popular souvenirs that reflect the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people.
5. Hmong skirts
The Hmong, an ethnic minority group with a rich history, have long called Vietnam home. Originating from southern China, the Hmong migrated to Vietnam centuries ago, settling in the mountainous regions of the north. Their unique traditions and customs, including their distinctive clothing, have become integral to the country’s cultural identity.
Hmong skirts, crafted with intricate embroidery and vibrant colors, are a testament to the group’s artistic skill and deep-rooted heritage. These skirts, often adorned with geometric patterns and symbolic motifs, are not only garments but also works of art that tell stories of the Hmong people’s traditions, beliefs, and experiences.
6. Tailor-made clothing
Tailor-made dresses and suits are a popular souvenir choice among tourists visiting Vietnam. If you’re visiting Hoi An in particular, you won’t miss this — there are hundreds of tailor shops in the Old Town of Hoi An, a charming coastal town renowned for its skilled tailors.
With a wide range of fabrics, styles, and measurements, you can have your dream attire custom-made to fit perfectly. From elegant evening gowns to sophisticated suits to swimsuits, the options are endless. Simply provide your desired measurements and preferences to a local tailor, and in just a few days, you’ll have a one-of-a-kind piece to cherish for years to come.
7. “Made in Vietnam” designer clothing
If you think your clothing options are limited to traditional and heritage pieces, think again. Vietnam’s fashion scene has seen a surge in “Made in Vietnam” designer clothing, capturing the attention of both locals and international fashion enthusiasts.
Popular brands like La Lune (pictured above), Bupbes, Cong Tri, and Fancì Club have gained recognition for their unique designs and high-quality craftsmanship. These brands often incorporate traditional Vietnamese elements into contemporary styles, creating pieces that are both stylish and culturally significant. Even K-pop celebrities have been spotted wearing these Vietnamese designer labels, further increasing their popularity and contributing to Vietnam’s growing reputation as a fashion destination.
You do have to spare a sizable amount, at least more than what you would for the usual souvenir, but if you’re a fashionista, you can find Vietnamese designer brands in malls, boutiques in Ho Chi Minh, and online.
Traditional arts and crafts
8. Vietnamese lacquerware
Vietnamese lacquerware is a centuries-old art form known for its durability, beauty, and intricate designs.
Created by applying multiple layers of lacquer to a base material, often wood or ceramic, lacquerware pieces can range from simple bowls to elaborate sculptures. The lacquer is often adorned with mother-of-pearl, gold leaf, or intricate patterns and designs, often depicting scenes from Vietnamese culture or mythology.
You can find a wide selection of lacquerware at local markets, craft villages, and specialty shops throughout Vietnam.
9. Phin (Vietnamese coffee filter)
One of the things Vietnam is known for is ca phe or coffee. Vietnamese coffee culture is unlike any other. Here, coffee is truly more than just a drink, it’s a way of life. It’s one of the reasons why I keep coming back. And if you’re a coffee lover like me, a visit to Vietnam should definitely include shopping for phin.
The phin is Vietnam’s traditional coffee filter. This simple yet effective device is often in the form of a stainless steel filter (but can sometimes be ceramic) with a small hole at the bottom, placed over a cup or teapot. Ground coffee is pressed into the filter, and hot water is poured over it. The phin slowly drips the coffee into the cup, resulting in a rich and flavorful brew.
The phin is one of the most “truly Vietnamese” souvenirs you can get. It’s also one of the cheapest, and they’re found everywhere, from traditional markets to big grocery stores.
10. Hand fans
Hand fans are not unique to Vietnam; they can be found everywhere in Asia and around the world. But Vietnam has a rich tradition of hand fan craftsmanship, dating back centuries.
Folding fans and leaf fans are among the most popular types. Folding fans, often made with intricate paper designs and bamboo frames, were once used by the nobility and scholars. Leaf fans, typically crafted from palm or banana leaves, are known for their simplicity and durability. Many villages in Northern and Central Vietnam are known for their hand fan production, where skilled artisans continue to carry on this ancient art form.
11. Ceramics and pottery
One of the more popular souvenirs from Vietnam, Vietnamese pottery and ceramics are known for their durability, intricate designs, and unique glazes. Traditional techniques, such as wheel throwing and kiln firing, continue to be practiced today, ensuring the preservation of this ancient craft.
The northern regions of Vietnam, particularly Bac Ninh and Bat Trang, are famous for their pottery production. These areas have produced a wide range of ceramic items, from small decorative items like figurines and small bowls to specialty pieces like large vases or ornate sculptures.
12. Embroidered textiles
Another souvenir you can easily find all over Vietnam is an embroidered piece. From delicate handkerchiefs and clothes to intricate wall displays and tablecloths, you’ll find a variety of embroidered textiles that’ll make for good keepsakes.
Many of these embroidered textiles feature traditional motifs like dragons, phoenixes, flowers, and landscapes but you can also find more contemporary patterns. Common materials used are silk, cotton, and linen so they’re durable too!
13. Traditional paintings
If you appreciate visual art, or you know someone who does, consider taking home traditional paintings from Vietnam. Locally known as tranh, Vietnam’s traditional paintings blend artistry with history. Two notable styles are Dong Ho and Hang Trong.
Dong Ho paintings, originating from a village of the same name in Bac Ninh province, are renowned for their vibrant colors and folk art motifs. These paintings are typically woodblock prints, depicting scenes of rural life, festivals, and mythological creatures.
Hang Trong paintings, on the other hand, are known for featuring powerful deities and sacred animals like tigers and dragons. These paintings come with vivid colors and patterns and are often found in the Hang Trong district of Hanoi, where skilled artisans continue to practice this ancient art form.
Both Dong Ho and Hang Trong can be found in art galleries, souvenir shops, and local markets throughout Vietnam, although both are facing competition from modern paintings.
14. Vietnamese tea sets
Vietnam may be known for its unique coffee culture but it’s a tea-loving nation too! Tea, or tra in Vietnamese, remains a staple in Vietnam. And if you want a taste of Vietnam’s tea culture even after your trip, you better get yourself a tea set.
Vietnamese tea sets typically include a teapot, teacups, and a tray, often made from materials such as porcelain, clay, lacquerware, or glass. The design and style of the set can vary depending on the region, with patterns and motifs inspired by nature, folklore, or historical events. Some sets also include a tea bowl and a tea whisk, used in the traditional tea ceremony.
15. Bamboo products
Vietnam’s abundance of bamboo has led to a thriving industry of bamboo products. Bamboo products are eco-friendly, sustainable, and functional, making them great souvenirs from Vietnam.
Bamboo is a versatile material that can be used to create a wide range of items, from everyday essentials to decorative pieces. You can find bamboo products like baskets, lamps, furniture, tableware, kitchenware, and even musical instruments.
16. Musical instruments
Speaking of musical instruments, they make for awesome souvenirs too! Whether it’s the water puppet show in Hanoi, Tet in Ho Chi Minh, or the Autumn Festival in Hue, music plays a central role in Vietnamese culture. What’s interesting is that even though Vietnam has largely embraced popular music (just look at See Tinh took over TikTok in 2023), traditional Vietnamese instruments still hold significance.
The dan tranh (zither), dan bau (monochord), and dan nhi (two-stringed fiddle) are among the most popular traditional instruments in Vietnam. That said, these instruments may be too bulky or heavy to take home. Lightweight musical instruments, such as bamboo flutes and xylophones, offer a unique and portable option. You can also go for miniature versions of the Trong Com, a colorful drum used in traditional ceremonies.
17. Vietnamese masks
Vietnam’s diverse ethnic landscape is evident in its tradition of mask-making. These masks are used in various ceremonies, rituals, and performances. The types of masks vary widely, reflecting the cultural diversity of the country, from ceremonial masks used in religious rituals to performance masks worn by dancers and actors in theater and dance performances. There are also tribal masks unique to specific ethnic groups and decorative masks displayed in homes.
Some common mask materials include wood, clay, and textiles. They also often feature intricate carvings, vibrant colors, and symbolic designs.
18. Vietnamese lanterns
Lanterns are among the best choices if you’re looking for souvenirs from Vietnam that’ll revamp your home.
An iconic and illuminating symbol in Vietnamese festivals, lanterns are traditionally made by hand, using a variety of materials such as rice paper, or fabric such as silk. The process involves cutting, shaping, and assembling the paper and/or fabric into various designs, such as spheres, cylinders, and dragons. They’re often decorated with colorful patterns, floral motifs, or traditional symbols.
While lanterns can be seen all over Vietnam, they’re particularly popular in Hoi An, where the Full Moon Festival is held on the 15th of every lunar month. During this festival, people can drop hoa dang or flower lanterns on the Hoai River. You can buy these as souvenirs or even sign up for a lantern-making class!
19. Vietnamese puppets
Water puppetry is a beautiful and enduring art form in Vietnam. The performances use puppets that are made of wood, papier-mache, and fabric and have elaborate costumes and expressions. They are operated by puppeteers who stand behind a screen, immersing the audience in a world of legends, folklore, and historical tales.
Popular puppet characters include farmers, fishermen, gods, and mythical creatures — characters straight out of Vietnamese culture and mythology. After watching a show, you can take home miniature versions of these puppets. Whether you’re a collector, a fan of traditional arts, or simply looking for a unique souvenir for you and your loved ones, these puppets can be a unique reminder of your trip.
Food and beverages
20. Vietnamese coffee
This list of souvenirs from Vietnam won’t be complete without Vietnamese coffee.
Known for its strong, bold flavor, Vietnamese coffee is the best souvenir you can give to your coffee-loving friends (or yourself). Vietnamese coffee is typically produced in the Central Highlands region, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for coffee cultivation.
Robusta is the most common variety of Vietnamese coffee, which is known for its high caffeine content and rich taste. But Arabica lovers need not be disappointed; Vietnam is now producing good Arabica coffee.
You’ll easily find whole beans of ground coffee in local markets or coffee shops all over Vietnam. For those who prefer instant coffee, you’ve got plenty of options in supermarkets. On my last visit, I was able to take home several packs of Trung Nguyen from Lotte Mart and Lam Dong Arabica beans from Tranquil Books & Coffee. If you need help choosing brands, check out this list of Vietnamese coffee brands.
21. Vietnamese tea
Of course, we can’t forget about our tea-loving friends!
From the verdant highlands of the north to the coastal plains of the south, tea production thrives across the country. Popular varieties include tra xanh (green tea), known for its delicate taste and health benefits; tra den (black tea), with its bold and robust flavor; and tra o long (oolong tea), a semi-fermented tea that balances sweetness and astringency.
More unique options include lotus tea, infused with the fragrant petals of the lotus flower; jasmine tea, delicately scented with jasmine blossoms; and a variety of herbal teas made from medicinal plants like chrysanthemum, ginger, and lemongrass.
22. Vietnamese rice wrappers
Another food souvenir you can easily find anywhere, rice wrappers or banh trang are versatile and essential ingredients in Vietnamese cuisine. Made from rice flour, these thin, translucent sheets are used to make spring rolls (pictured above), banh xeo (savory pancakes), and banh trang tron (mixed rice paper salad).
Rice paper wrappers are perfect souvenirs for those who want to replicate Vietnamese dishes at home. They’re also among the lightest and cheapest souvenirs you can find in Vietnam.
23. Dried fruits
Being located in Southeast Asia means that Vietnam enjoys an abundance of tropical fruits. And while it’s difficult (and sometimes, not allowed) to bring fresh fruits on a plane, you can bring home dried fruits worry-free.
The best part? You’re spoilt for choice. If you’re into sweets, go for dried mangoes and papayas. For fans of sour fruits, you can purchase dried pineapples, passion fruits, or oranges. There’s also the chewy dried dragon fruit and guava. These sun-dried or oven-dried fruits are often coated in a light dusting of sugar or salt, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a nice crunch.
24. Nuoc cham (Vietnamese fish sauce)
Vietnamese fish sauce, or nuoc mam, is a staple ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine and is often referred to as the “soul” of Vietnamese food.
This pungent, salty condiment made from fermented fish (typically anchovies) adds a unique flavor to many dishes. The fermentation process can take several months or even years, resulting in a rich, umami flavor and a distinct, slightly fishy aroma.
Nuoc cham is used in a wide variety of Vietnamese dishes, from marinades and dipping sauces for dishes like bun cha (pictured above) to stir-fries and soups like pho. And if you plan on making Vietnamese dishes at home, you should absolutely take home this versatile condiment.
25. Dried herbs and spices
One of the most unforgettable experiences I had in Vietnam was joining this cooking class in Hanoi. Here, I learned not just how to cook dishes like pho bo, bun cha, and nem ran but also got a closer look at the herbs and spices that go into these delicious dishes.
Vietnamese cuisine is known for its masterful blend of herbs, spices, and seasonings that one can easily find in local markets. But like in the case of fruits, it’s not easy to take these home. As an alternative, I recommend buying dried herbs and spices instead.
From the fiery heat of chili peppers to the fragrant complexity of cinnamon, Vietnamese dried herbs and spices can elevate any dish. Popular choices include turmeric, ginger, lemongrass, star anise, basil, and galangal.
26. Chocolates
Vietnam may not be the first country you think of when it comes to chocolates. But thanks to its quality cacao, Vietnam is also making waves in the world of chocolate. Vietnamese chocolatiers are crafting high-quality treats that showcase the country’s unique flavors and terroir.
One notable brand is Marou, renowned for its bean-to-bar chocolate made from locally sourced cacao. Marou is among the earliest bean-to-bar artisanal chocolate makers in Asia and its chocolates are truly top-notch. They have this rich, complex taste profile, often infused with Vietnamese spices and fruits like cinnamon, cardamom, and durian.
Marou chocolates can be on the pricier side but these artisanal creations are some of the most special souvenirs you can get. I especially love the Ben Tre and Dak Lak single-origin bars but you can also check out innovative flavors like the Pho Spices, Mint and Orange from Dong Nai, and Arabica Coffee from Lam Dong. You can find Maison Marou stores here.
Miscellaneous souvenirs from Vietnam
27. Da cau (Vietnamese shuttlecock)
Da cau, or Vietnamese shuttlecocks, are a beloved pastime and another symbol of the country’s rich cultural heritage. These handcrafted shuttlecocks are traditionally made from feathers, a metal or plastic washer, and a plastic, cork, or rubber base.
Playing da cau is a popular social activity for kids and adults alike. You can think of it like foot badminton, except you can play it even without a net, at least in casual games. Da cau competitions are played on courts and have nets, with rules similar to badminton. The sport has been part of the World Shuttlecock Championships (WSC) and Asian Shuttlecock Championships, where Vietnam remains a powerhouse.
Whether you plan to play a game of da cau or simply display it at home, these shuttlecocks make for meaningful souvenirs.
28. Propaganda posters
For history lovers, Vietnamese propaganda posters offer a unique glimpse into the country’s rich history and political landscape.
These vibrant and often evocative artworks were used to disseminate information, inspire patriotism, and mobilize the citizens during different periods of the country’s past. From the revolutionary era to the post-war reconstruction, propaganda posters provide a visual narrative of the nation’s aspirations, challenges, and triumphs.
As souvenirs, propaganda posters offer a tangible connection to Vietnam’s past and can be fascinating artifacts for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
29. Vietnamese chopsticks
Like many Asian countries, chopsticks are an integral part of Vietnamese cuisine. And they’re great souvenirs!
Vietnamese chopsticks are typically made from bamboo or old coconut wood. One of the distinguishing features of Vietnamese chopsticks is their length, as they’re generally longer than those used in China, Japan, or Korea. This allows for greater precision and ease when handling small food items.
Additionally, Vietnamese chopsticks are thinner than Chinese ones and have blunt ends, well suited for Vietnamese dishes like pho and fresh herbs.
30. Books
As a bookworm, I was amazed at Vietnam’s reading culture. There are “book streets” — pedestrian-only streets lined with bookstores and cafés — in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. Beyond the book streets, however, there are also many other bookstores, libraries, and book cafés.
If you’re a fellow book lover, or you have a bookworm in your life, I recommend shopping for books in Vietnam. You can go for Vietnamese original literature translated into English or other languages. Or you can do what I did and find Vietnamese translations of foreign classics. I’ve been collecting various translations of one of my favorite books, Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s The Little Prince, and I got a copy of the Vietnamese translation from Artbook in Hanoi.
Where to buy souvenirs in Vietnam
Vietnam offers a plethora of shopping opportunities, from bustling markets to upscale boutiques.
For a truly authentic shopping experience, head to one of Vietnam’s vibrant markets. The Old Quarter in Hanoi has a maze of streets offering many of the items I listed above. Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City are also popular, offering a wide range of goods from handicrafts and textiles to kitchenware and food souvenirs. Night markets, such as the one in Hoi An, are also excellent places to find unique and affordable items.
If you’re looking for high-quality or specific items, consider visiting specialty shops. For silk and lacquerware, head to silk villages like Van Phuc Silk Village or lacquerware workshops. For Vietnamese ceramics, explore pottery villages like Bat Trang and Chu Dau in northern Vietnam, Thanh Ha in Hoi An, and Mai Mai in Ho Chi Minh.
For a more upscale shopping experience, visit boutiques and department stores. These often carry designer brands, high-end fashion, and luxury goods. Popular destinations include Vincom Center in Hanoi and Saigon Centre in Ho Chi Minh City. Many of the food and beverage souvenirs I mentioned above can be found in local markets as well as supermarkets and grocery stores.
Finally, don’t forget to explore the street vendors, who often sell unique and affordable souvenirs. From handmade trinkets and paintings to local snacks, you’ll find a variety of items at competitive prices.
Conclusion
Vietnam offers a treasure trove of souvenirs, from traditional handicrafts and culinary delights to unique cultural pieces. Whether you’re seeking a tangible memento of your travels or a gift for loved ones, there’s something for everyone.
Do immerse yourself in vibrant markets, specialty shops, and boutiques to discover a wide range of souvenirs that capture the essence of Vietnam’s rich history, culture, and traditions. I guarantee you’ll have no trouble finding a souvenir that you’ll treasure for years to come.
