What makes shopping memorable for you? For many people it is the feeling of finding something unique that reminds them of the place forever. Shopping in Vietnam feels exactly like that. You see colourful lanterns hanging in streets, handmade jewellery sold in tiny stalls and tailors stitching clothes right in front of you. The country has floating markets, authentic silk, lacquerware, coffee beans and cute souvenirs that are not mass produced.
The best part is that every city has a different vibe. Big malls, night markets, vintage stores and local handicraft streets all add a different flavour. Many travellers even plan Vietnam tour packages around shopping because there is so much variety and great pricing. This blog will share the best shopping places and what to buy so your bags come home full. If this sounds like the kind of shopping you enjoy then you will love every moment of it.
Best Shopping Places in Vietnam
Shopping in Vietnam feels like a fun mix of local culture and modern stores. Every city has its own style, whether you want street markets or fancy boutiques. If you are confused about what to shop in Vietnam or where to go first, this list will help. Below you will find 10 of the best spots for shopping in Vietnam so you can enjoy the experience without feeling lost.
1. Ben Thanh Market, Ho Chi Minh City
This is the heart of Ho Chi Minh’s market life, busy from morning till evening. Inside you find clothes, bags, street food stalls and small shops selling handicrafts and coffee. Haggling is normal and part of the fun here. It is a good first stop to see local life and pick souvenirs. Many travellers call it a classic spot for shopping in Vietnam because it shows both old style markets and tourist-friendly stalls.
Location: District 1 Ho Chi Minh City
Timing: 6 am to 10 pm
Tip: Go early for better prices and fewer crowds
2. Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi
In Hanoi’s old quarter, Dong Xuan feels big and lively. There are indoor lanes stacked with garments, electronics and food stalls. Early morning the wholesale side wakes up and later tourists come for bargains and tailors. The market smells of spices and coffee, which makes the walk feel very local. This place is often suggested when people ask where to shop in Vietnam for a mix of cheap finds and classic northern goods.
Location: Hoan Kiem District Hanoi
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
Tip: Morning hours offer the best wholesale rates
3. Hoi An Night Market, Hoi An
At dusk the riverside lanterns light up and the market starts to buzz. Hoi An is famous for tailors, and small shops here can stitch clothes in a day or two. You also find artisan lanterns, pottery, and local snacks to try while you walk. The setting makes shopping feel relaxed and pretty. For many visitors, this market is one of the best shopping in Vietnam for handmade items and personalised keepsakes.
Location: Nguyen Hoang Street riverside
Timing: 5 pm to 10 pm
Tip: Buying two or more lanterns often gets better deals
4. Nha Trang Night Market, Nha Trang
Near the beach, this night market mixes seafood eateries and rows of stalls selling beachwear, bags and souvenirs. The sea breeze makes the evening stroll very pleasant. Prices here are reasonable and sellers often offer small discounts for bulk buys. It is a good place to pick up swimwear, sarongs, and local handicrafts after a day on the sand. Many beachgoers add this market to their list of places for shopping in Vietnam.
Location: Tran Phu Street near the beachfront
Timing: 6 pm to 11 pm
Tip: Walk the full stretch once to compare prices
5. Saigon Square, Ho Chi Minh City
Saigon Square is an indoor shopping zone known for fashion, shoes and quick bargains. The stores sell trendy clothing and small accessories at lower prices than big malls. You can find copies, local brands and seasonal styles in neat shops with friendly staff. It feels easy to shop here if you want fast choices and simple haggling. Saigon Square is one of the common stops when people think of shopping in Vietnam for clothes and gifts.
Location: District 1 near Ben Thanh
Timing: 9 am to 10 pm
Tip: Clothing prices drop when you buy small bundles
6. Cai Rang Floating Market, Can Tho
This floating market is about more than buying. Vendors sell from boats piled with fruit, vegetables and local snacks. You row close, point and choose fresh produce and homemade sweets. The view of colour, water and people trading in small boats makes the visit memorable. It is the best Vietnam shopping market for food lovers who want the river trade experience and local flavours straight from the sellers’ boats.
Location: About 6 km from Can Tho city centre
Timing: 5 am to 9 am
Tip: Visit before sunrise to see the market at its busiest
7. An Dong Market, Ho Chi Minh City
An Dong feels like a trader’s market where you can find bulk fabrics, silk and wedding goods. The multi-storey complex has sections for textiles, accessories and ready-made garments. Sellers are used to larger orders and traders often source here for small businesses. If you want quality fabric, traditional materials or wholesale prices, this market is very useful. It also gives a sense of real trading life away from the tourist trails.
Location: District 5 Cho Lon area
Timing: 8 am to 6 pm
Tip: Upper floors have the best fabric quality and bulk rates
8. Sapa Market, Sapa
Set in the mountain town, Sapa market sells handmade textiles, woollens and tribal silver from nearby villages. Local hill tribes come here with woven shawls, colourful scarves and traditional crafts. The patterns feel unique and the items show local skill and style. It is a great place to buy blankets, hats and tribal jewellery while supporting small village makers. Many visitors include Sapa on lists of top camping and market stops for northern Vietnam.
Location: Sapa Town centre Lao Cai
Timing: 6 am to 6 pm
Tip: Weekends have more tribal sellers with handmade goods
9. Ba Na Hills Souvenir Shops, Da Nang
Near the tourist hill park, these shops sell simple gifts, wood crafts and themed souvenirs. The setting is different from street markets because it sits close to views and cable cars. You can pick small carved items, local snacks and neat keepsakes that travel well. For travellers short on time, these shops offer quick, tidy shopping without haggling. They work well as a last stop after visiting the peak areas and gardens.
Location: Ba Na Hills tourist area near the cable car
Timing: 8 am to 5 pm
Tip: Items at the base station are usually cheaper
10. Night Market at Binh Tay, Ho Chi Minh City
Binh Tay has a strong local feel and a busy wholesale section by day that turns lively at night. It is known for food, spices, household items and bargain clothing. The market is less touristy than others and gives a rawer shopping experience. Walk slowly, try street snacks and chat with sellers for small local tips. For travellers who want to see real market life and find simpler bargains, Binh Tay is a useful pick.
Location: District 6 Cho Lon
Timing: 6 pm to 11 pm
Tip: Carry small cash notes since large bills are often avoided
Top Things to Buy in Vietnam
If you enjoy bringing back items that hold memories of the food, culture and places you saw, then this part will help you figure out what to pick. Some of the most famous things to shop in Vietnam are handmade crafts, snacks and fabrics that feel authentic and not mass factory stuff. Shopping in Vietnam feels more fun when you already know what to look for, so here are 10 items that are truly worth buying.
1. Vietnamese Coffee Beans
Vietnam is known for strong and smooth coffee. You will find different roasts that taste bold and rich. Many travellers pick it as one of the best Vietnam shopping items because it feels authentic and special. Buying coffee while shopping in Vietnam also reminds you of cafes and slow mornings from the trip.
Price: approx ₹200 – ₹680 (60,000 – 200,000 VND)
2. Vietnamese Silk
Silk here feels soft and light and is often handmade. Local tailors use it for scarves, dresses and custom outfits. Many travellers choose it because it looks elegant and lasts long. It is also one of the most popular Vietnam things to buy when exploring traditional markets and boutiques.
Price: approx ₹500 – ₹1,350 (150,000 – 400,000 VND)
3. Lacquerware
This beautiful craft comes in bowls, trays and jewellery boxes with detailed hand painting. Each piece feels artistic and unique. Travellers love it because it represents traditional craftsmanship. It easily becomes one of the most memorable things to shop in Vietnam, especially for home decor lovers.
Price: approx ₹600 – ₹16,700 (180,000 – 5,000,000 VND)
4. Conical Hats (Non La)
Non La is something you will notice again and again while shopping in Vietnam. It is made from dried leaves and bamboo, yet it has a special meaning because locals use it daily for shade and rain. It is also one of the most suggested picks when someone asks what to shop in Hanoi Vietnam.
Price: approx ₹10 – ₹170 (3,000 – 50,000 VND)
5. Handmade Jewellery
Silver and gemstone jewellery is very common in small local shops. The designs sometimes feel raw and inspired by nature or old traditions. Many people choose it because it feels personal and not mass made. Shopping in Vietnam gets more fun when you find a ring or pendant that reminds you of the trip.
Price: approx ₹340 – ₹3,400 (100,000 – 1,000,000 VND)
6. Ceramics and Pottery
You will see bowls, cups and decorative pieces with soft colours and hand painted details. Some designs come from craft villages that have worked for generations. These items are popular because they look rustic and artistic, and they feel meaningful to bring back.
Price: approx ₹340 – ₹2,400 (100,000 – 700,000 VND)
7. Spices and Seasonings
Vietnamese spices smell fresh and add real flavour to food. Pepper, pho mixes and lemongrass blends are very common picks. They make cooking at home feel nostalgic and fun. Many travellers consider them practical Vietnam shopping items because they fit easily in luggage.
Price: approx ₹70 – ₹510 (20,000 – 150,000 VND)
8. Bamboo and Eco Friendly Products
Reusable bamboo cutlery, straws and home goods are widely sold and eco friendly. These items are simple and useful. Many travellers enjoy buying them because they support a more natural lifestyle and make everyday routines feel more meaningful.
Price: around ₹100 – ₹1,700 (30,000 – 500,000 VND)
9. Ao Dai Mini Souvenirs
These little souvenirs are inspired by the traditional Ao Dai dress. You usually find them as magnets, dolls or keychains. People like them because they are cute, colourful and easy to bring home. Many travellers add them to their list of Vietnam things to buy because they make a sweet memory without taking up much space.
Price: approx ₹170 – ₹1,020 (50,000 – 300,000 VND)
10. Dried Fruits and Local Snacks
Snacks like dried mango, coconut candy and sesame bites are everywhere in markets. They taste fresh and make easy gifts for family or friends. If someone doesn’t know what to shop in Vietnam after days of browsing, snacks are usually the easiest choice because they fit any bag and everyone enjoys them.
Price: approximately ₹170 – ₹680 (50,000 – 200,000 VND)
Essential Tips for Shopping in Vietnam
Shopping here can be fun because there are many markets, shops and different products to explore. Here are some useful tips that make the experience of shopping in Vietnam smoother and less confusing.
Bargain politely: It is common to negotiate in markets, so a friendly and calm tone works best. Sellers usually expect it, so do not feel shy.
Compare before buying: Many stalls sell similar items, and prices can vary a lot. Walking around first helps you get a better deal.
Carry cash: Many small vendors do not accept cards, especially in markets. Cash makes payments quicker and avoids confusion.
Check product quality: Look closely at stitching, material and finishing before paying. Some items may look good from far but are not durable.
Ask before taking photos: Some sellers do not allow photos of products. Asking first is respectful and avoids awkward moments.
Buy valuable items from trusted shops: For jewellery, antiques or art pieces, choose registered stores. It reduces the chances of buying fake or low quality products.
Conclusion
Shopping in Vietnam feels easy and exciting at the same time. The streets are full of life, colours and small stalls selling things that instantly catch your eye. Sometimes it is silk, sometimes snacks and other times handmade crafts that make you stop and look closer. Nothing feels rushed here and that makes shopping even better. You walk around, talk to sellers, touch the fabrics and slowly explore everything that looks interesting. The fun part is that every item tells a small story about the place and the people. If you love buying meaningful souvenirs instead of random things, you will really enjoy shopping here. Take your time, enjoy the experience and shop at your own pace.
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