Ever wondered what it feels like to haggle for silk in a 100-year-old market or find handmade treasures in villages where crafts have been perfected for generations? Vietnam’s shopping scene offers exactly this – an adventure that’s as much about the experience as the souvenirs you’ll bring home.
In Vietnam, shopping isn’t just shopping. It’s a window into the soul of the country, where ancient traditions meet modern luxury in a vibrant, colorful explosion of sights, sounds, and scents.
Are you ready to discover why shopping in Vietnam might be the most memorable part of your trip? Let’s dive in!
Essential Vietnam Shopping Tips
Before you hit the markets with your dong (Vietnamese currency) in hand, let’s cover some basics that will make your shopping experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Understanding Vietnamese Currency and Payment Options
Vietnam runs on cash, especially in traditional markets and small shops. The Vietnamese dong (VND) comes in large denominations – don’t be shocked when you’re suddenly a millionaire! A coffee might cost you 30,000 VND, which is just over $1.
Cash vs. Cards: What to Use Where
Most markets, street vendors, and small shops accept cash only. You’ll need those colorful bills for:
- Traditional markets like Ben Thanh or Dong Xuan
- Street food vendors
- Souvenir stalls
- Rural shops and village artisans
Cards are widely accepted at:
- Shopping malls
- Department stores
- Higher-end boutiques
- Hotels and modern restaurants
Mobile Payment Apps in Vietnam
Vietnam is increasingly embracing digital payments. Apps like Momo and ZaloPay are popular with locals, but as a tourist, you might find limited use for them unless you’re staying long-term.
Currency Exchange Tips
Want the best rates? Skip the airport exchanges and head to:
- Gold shops in city centers
- Banks in major cities
- Authorized exchange counters in tourist areas
Remember: Always count your money carefully before leaving the counter!
Bargaining Etiquette and Techniques
Bargaining is an art form in Vietnam. It’s expected in markets and with street vendors, but know when it’s appropriate.
When to Bargain and When Not To
Do bargain at:
- Markets
- Street stalls
- Tourist souvenir shops
- With cyclo or motorbike taxi drivers
Don’t bargain at:
- Department stores
- Shopping malls
- Shops with fixed prices (look for “fixed price” signs)
- Restaurants and cafes
Step-by-Step Bargaining Process
- Start by browsing without showing too much interest
- Ask the price casually
- Offer 40-50% of the asking price (yes, that low!)
- Watch the reaction – if they seem shocked, your offer might be too low
- Negotiate gradually upward while they come down
- Be prepared to walk away – often, you’ll be called back with a better price
- Settle on a price you’re both happy with
Remember, bargaining should be friendly and respectful – treat it like a game, not a battle.
Common Bargaining Phrases in Vietnamese
A few words in Vietnamese can go a long way:
- “Bao nhiêu?” (How much?)
- “Đắt quá!” (Too expensive!)
- “Giảm giá” (Discount)
- “Cảm ơn” (Thank you)
Shopping Safety and Scam Prevention
Most Vietnamese vendors are honest, but like any tourist destination, a few bad apples exist.
How to Identify Authentic Products
Counterfeit goods are common, especially for brand-name products. If that “North Face” jacket costs $20, it’s definitely not authentic. For traditional crafts:
- Check the quality of materials and workmanship
- Ask about the production process
- Look for signs of machine vs. handmade work
- Buy from reputable sources or directly from artisans when possible
Common Shopping Scams to Avoid
- The switch: When you agree on a price for one item, but a lower quality version is wrapped up
- The quality con: When fabrics or materials are claimed to be silk, silver, etc. but are actually synthetic
- The meter runs fast: Taxi scams where the meter runs at an accelerated rate
- The wrong change: When a vendor counts change incorrectly, hoping you won’t notice
Safe Transportation with Purchases
After a successful shopping spree, getting back to your hotel safely with all your treasures is important:
- Use reputable taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun
- Consider ride-hailing apps like Grab
- For small purchases, keep your bag close in crowded areas
- For valuable items, ask if the shop offers delivery to your hotel
Want to explore Hanoi’s shopping streets with a local who knows all the hidden gems and can help you avoid scams? Our Hanoi Old Quarter Tour includes stops at the best shopping spots with a guide who can help you bargain like a pro!
Traditional Markets in Vietnam
Traditional markets are the beating heart of Vietnamese shopping culture. They’re noisy, crowded, sometimes overwhelming – and absolutely not to be missed!
Iconic Markets in Hanoi
Hanoi’s markets are treasure troves of everything from silk scarves to street food.
Dong Xuan Market
This massive Soviet-style building houses Hanoi’s largest indoor market:
- Location: Dong Xuan Street, Hoan Kiem District
- Best for: Wholesale goods, fabric, clothing, household items
- Atmosphere: Bustling, locals-focused, less touristy
- Insider tip: Head to the food court on the ground floor for authentic local dishes
Old Quarter Shopping Streets
Each street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter traditionally specialized in specific goods, and some still follow this tradition:
- Hang Gai (Silk Street): Beautiful silk products and tailors
- Hang Bac (Silver Street): Jewelry and silverwork
- Hang Quat: Decorative items and traditional flags
- Lan Ong: Traditional medicine and herbs
The Old Quarter is a fascinating maze where ancient traditions meet modern commerce. To truly understand its history while discovering the best shops, join our Hanoi Old Quarter Experience where local guides share stories behind each shopping street.
Weekend Night Market
Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, the streets from Hang Dao to Hang Giay transform into a pedestrian-only shopping paradise:
- Hours: 7pm to 11pm
- Best for: Souvenirs, clothing, street food, people-watching
- Atmosphere: Festive, crowded, energetic
- Insider tip: Come hungry – the street food here is excellent!
Must-Visit Markets in Ho Chi Minh City
Southern Vietnam’s commercial hub offers vibrant market experiences with its own distinct flavor.
Ben Thanh Market
This iconic market is perhaps Vietnam’s most famous:
- Location: District 1, city center
- Best for: Souvenirs, textiles, local food, coffee, spices
- Atmosphere: Touristy, busy, aggressive vendors
- Insider tip: Prices start high here – bargain hard or shop elsewhere first to understand fair prices
Binh Tay Market (Cho Lon)
Located in HCMC’s Chinatown, this wholesale market offers a more authentic experience:
- Location: District 6
- Best for: Wholesale goods, Chinese herbs, textiles, household items
- Atmosphere: Local, less touristy, authentic
- Insider tip: Visit in the morning when it’s most active and coolest
Saigon Square
A more modern market experience with air conditioning:
- Location: Multiple locations in District 1
- Best for: Clothing, bags, shoes (many counterfeit brands)
- Atmosphere: Indoor, organized, fixed stalls
- Insider tip: Prices are lower than Ben Thanh with less aggressive selling
Unique Markets in Other Regions
Vietnam’s diverse regions each offer unique market experiences worth exploring.
Hoi An Night Market
This charming market comes alive after sunset along the Thu Bon River:
- Location: Nguyen Hoang Street, Hoi An Ancient Town
- Best for: Handmade lanterns, souvenirs, art, food
- Atmosphere: Romantic, colorful, touristy but pleasant
- Insider tip: Watch lantern-making demonstrations at some stalls
Dong Ba Market (Hue)
The oldest and largest market in the former imperial capital:
- Location: Tran Hung Dao Street, Hue
- Best for: Hue specialties like conical hats, traditional foods
- Atmosphere: Authentic, busy, local
- Insider tip: Try Hue’s famous street foods at the market’s food stalls
Dalat Market
Set in Vietnam’s highland city, this market specializes in cool-weather products:
- Location: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Dalat
- Best for: Fresh produce, flowers, jams, wine, warm clothing
- Atmosphere: Colorful, less hectic than lowland markets
- Insider tip: Look for artichoke tea and strawberry products grown locally
After exploring Hanoi’s markets, discover the city’s French influence and architectural treasures on our Coffee, History, and Architecture of the French Quarter Tour. It’s a perfect complement to your Old Quarter shopping adventures!
Modern Shopping in Vietnam
Beyond traditional markets, Vietnam offers increasingly sophisticated modern shopping experiences that rival any in Southeast Asia.
Luxury Shopping Malls
Vietnam’s economic boom has brought luxury shopping to its major cities.
Top Malls in Hanoi
- Trang Tien Plaza: Vietnam’s most upscale mall with international brands like Louis Vuitton and Dior
- Lotte Center: Korean-owned modern mall with excellent city views
- Vincom Center Ba Trieu: Part of Vietnam’s largest retail chain with fashion, electronics, and entertainment
Premium Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City
- Takashimaya: Japanese department store with luxury brands
- Union Square: Home to high-end designers and premium Vietnamese brands
- Saigon Centre: Mixed-use complex with Takashimaya and other luxury retailers
International Brands vs. Local Alternatives
While international brands maintain prestige in Vietnam, local designers are gaining recognition:
- International luxury goods in Vietnam often carry a 20-30% premium over prices in Europe or America
- Local Vietnamese brands like Ipa-Nima (handbags) and Thuy Design House offer unique designs with better value
- Many international brands manufacture in Vietnam – you might find factory outlets with discounts
Vietnamese Designer Boutiques
Vietnam’s fashion scene is blossoming with talented designers creating unique pieces that blend traditional elements with contemporary style.
Emerging Vietnamese Fashion Designers
- Thuy Design House: Modern takes on traditional Vietnamese silhouettes
- Metiseko: Eco-friendly fabrics with elegant prints
- Kilomet109: Sustainable fashion using traditional dyeing techniques
- Valerie Gregori McKenzie: Luxury resort wear
Where to Find Unique Contemporary Designs
- L’Usine: Lifestyle concept store in HCMC and Hanoi with curated Vietnamese designs
- Saigon Kitsch: Fun, retro-inspired souvenirs and clothing
- The Maker: Artisan collective in Hanoi showcasing handmade goods
Custom Tailoring Services
Vietnam is famous for fast, affordable tailoring:
- Hoi An: The tailoring capital with hundreds of shops that can produce custom clothing in 24-48 hours
- Hanoi’s Hang Gai Street: Specializes in silk garments and traditional ao dai
- Ho Chi Minh City’s Ton That Thiep Street: Known for quality tailors
Department Stores and Shopping Centers
For convenient one-stop shopping, Vietnam’s department stores offer variety and fixed prices.
Japanese and Korean Department Stores
These offer high standards of organization and customer service:
- AEON Mall: Japanese chain with locations in Hanoi and HCMC
- Lotte Department Store: Korean retailer with extensive food courts
- Takashimaya: Premium Japanese shopping experience in HCMC
Local Chain Stores
- Vincom: Vietnam’s largest mall chain with locations throughout the country
- Saigon Co.op Mart: Local supermarket chain good for food souvenirs
- Fahasa: Popular bookstore chain with English titles and stationery
Electronics and Tech Shopping
- Nguyen Kim: Major electronics retailer with competitive prices
- Mobile World: For smartphones and gadgets
- Cellphone S: For the latest mobile devices
Between shopping trips in Hanoi, take a break to explore the city’s fascinating history with our Stories from Vietnam War Tour, which takes you to areas most tourists miss!
What to Buy in Vietnam: Authentic Souvenirs
Wondering what’s worth bringing home? Vietnam offers unique souvenirs that capture the country’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship.
Traditional Vietnamese Crafts
These handmade items showcase Vietnam’s artistic traditions.
Lacquerware and Ceramics
Vietnam’s lacquerware tradition dates back centuries:
- Lacquer art: Paintings and decorative items with intricate inlaid designs using eggshell, mother-of-pearl, or gold leaf
- Bat Trang ceramics: Blue and white porcelain with distinctive patterns
- Pricing guide: Small lacquer boxes start around $10-15, while museum-quality pieces can reach hundreds of dollars
Silk Products and Textiles
Vietnam produces some of Asia’s finest silk:
- Silk scarves and ties: Beautiful, lightweight souvenirs
- Ao dai: Vietnam’s national dress, available ready-made or custom-tailored
- Ethnic minority textiles: Hand-embroidered Hmong and Tai fabrics with geometric patterns
- Quality check: Burn test a thread – real silk smells like burning hair and turns to ash, not melted plastic
Bamboo and Wood Crafts
Sustainable and beautiful natural materials:
- Bamboo kitchenware: Eco-friendly utensils and bowls
- Wooden puzzles and games: Traditional Vietnamese entertainment
- Carved figurines: Often depicting Vietnamese life and folklore
Vietnamese Food Products
Bring home a taste of Vietnam with these packable treats.
Coffee and Tea
Vietnam is the world’s second-largest coffee producer:
- Robusta coffee beans: Strong, bold flavor perfect for Vietnamese coffee
- Weasel coffee: Famous (and expensive) fermented coffee
- Artichoke tea: A Dalat specialty with health benefits
- Lotus tea: Delicately scented premium tea
Spices and Condiments
Essential ingredients for Vietnamese cooking:
- Fish sauce (nuoc mam): The foundation of Vietnamese cuisine
- Pho spice packets: Mix your own authentic pho at home
- Star anise and cinnamon: Vietnam produces premium quality spices
- Chili sauce: Look for local brands beyond the typical sriracha
Packable Treats and Snacks
Sweet and savory snacks that travel well:
- Coconut candy: A Mekong Delta specialty
- Dried fruit: Mango, dragon fruit, and jackfruit
- Rice paper snacks: Crispy rounds flavored with sesame or coconut
- Lotus seeds: A traditional healthy snack
After shopping for food souvenirs, why not experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine firsthand? Our Hanoi Street Food & Hidden Path Tour takes you to local favorites most tourists never find!
Contemporary Vietnamese Souvenirs
Modern Vietnam produces creative, design-focused souvenirs beyond traditional crafts.
Modern Vietnamese Design Items
- Propaganda-style posters: Retro art with a Vietnamese twist
- Handmade notebooks: Made with traditional paper
- Upcycled items: Like wallets made from cement bags or jewelry from bomb casings
- Modern art prints: From Vietnam’s thriving contemporary art scene
Locally Made Beauty Products
Natural ingredients inspired by traditional remedies:
- Lotus-based skincare: Anti-aging products using Vietnam’s national flower
- Natural soaps: Often incorporating local ingredients like coffee and rice
- Essential oils: Lemongrass, cinnamon, and star anise from Vietnamese sources
- Traditional herbal remedies: Like tiger balm and medicinal oils
Books and Art
Cultural souvenirs that offer deeper insights:
- Photography books: Beautiful coffee table books showcasing Vietnam
- Translated Vietnamese literature: Works by authors like Bao Ninh and Nguyen Phan Que Mai
- Original artwork: From student galleries in Hanoi and HCMC
- Vintage maps: Reproductions of historical Vietnamese maps
Artisan Villages: Shopping at the Source
For unique souvenirs and authentic experiences, visit Vietnam’s craft villages where generations of artisans have perfected their skills.
Hanoi Area Craft Villages
The Red River Delta surrounding Hanoi is home to hundreds of specialized craft villages.
Bat Trang Ceramic Village
Just 13km from Hanoi, this 700-year-old village specializes in ceramics:
- What to buy: Everything from everyday dishware to elaborate art pieces
- Experience: Try your hand at pottery making on a wheel
- Best time to visit: Weekday mornings to avoid crowds
- Getting there: Taxi or tour from Hanoi takes about 30 minutes
Van Phuc Silk Village
Vietnam’s premier silk-weaving village:
- What to buy: High-quality silk fabrics, ready-made clothing, scarves
- Experience: Watch weavers at traditional looms
- Location: 10km southwest of Hanoi
- Shopping tip: Prices are significantly lower than in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Dong Ho Painting Village
Famous for traditional woodblock prints:
- What to buy: Folk paintings made with natural colors on do paper
- Significance: These paintings represent traditional Vietnamese Tet (New Year) decorations
- Experience: See how natural colors are made from crushed shells and local materials
- Visitor information: Small entrance fee to workshops, 40km from Hanoi
Central Vietnam Artisan Communities
The ancient imperial capital region harbors unique craft traditions.
Hoi An Lantern Makers
Famous for their colorful silk lanterns:
- What to buy: Collapsible lanterns that pack flat in your suitcase
- Experience: Make your own lantern in workshops like at the Precious Heritage Museum
- Best photo spot: Lantern shops along Tran Phu Street
- Market tip: Prices are lower in shops away from the Ancient Town center
Thanh Ha Pottery Village
Ancient pottery village near Hoi An:
- What to buy: Terra cotta items with a distinctive red clay
- Experience: Try making simple pottery pieces
- Location: 3km west of Hoi An, easily reached by bicycle
- Opening hours: Daily 8am-5pm, with fewer artisans working during lunch
Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village
At the foot of the Marble Mountains near Da Nang:
- What to buy: Marble and stone sculptures of all sizes
- Shipping options: Larger purchases can be shipped internationally
- History: 400-year-old tradition brought from northern Vietnam
- Shopping tip: Prices vary widely between shops – compare before buying
Mekong Delta Handicraft Centers
The lush Mekong region specializes in crafts using local natural materials.
Ben Tre Coconut Products
Everything made from coconut:
- What to buy: Kitchenware, decorative items, candy, oils
- Experience: See how every part of the coconut is utilized
- Tour options: Many Mekong Delta tours include Ben Tre
- Eco-factor: Sustainable use of natural materials
My Tho Bamboo Products
Specializing in bamboo and rattan goods:
- What to buy: Furniture, housewares, baskets, decorative items
- Quality check: Look for tight weaving and smooth finishes
- Bargaining: Expected but prices start reasonably
- Weight consideration: Consider shipping heavier items
Sa Dec Flower Village
Famous for ornamental plants and flowers:
- What to buy: Seeds, dried flowers, flower-based products
- Experience: Photograph the stunning floral displays
- Best time: Tet (Lunar New Year) for the most impressive blooms
- Note: Plant products may face import restrictions in your home country
If you’re traveling with family and want to introduce children to Vietnam’s craft traditions, our Kids Friendly Hanoi Old Quarter Tour includes hands-on activities perfect for young travelers!
Seasonal and Specialty Shopping
Timing your shopping adventures can lead to unique finds and experiences.
Tet (Lunar New Year) Shopping
Vietnam’s most important holiday transforms markets into festive wonderlands.
Special Tet Products and Gifts
- Peach blossoms (North) and yellow apricot blossoms (South): Traditional holiday plants
- Red and gold decorations: Symbolizing luck and prosperity
- Bánh chưng and bánh tét: Traditional sticky rice cakes
- New clothes: Many Vietnamese buy new outfits for Tet
Tet Decoration Markets
Special temporary markets appear before the holiday:
- Hang Luoc Flower Market (Hanoi): Historic flower market dating back centuries
- Quang Ba Flower Market (Hanoi): 24-hour wholesale flower market
- Ho Thi Ky Flower Market (HCMC): Largest flower market in southern Vietnam
Pre-Holiday Shopping Tips
- Timing: Markets are busiest 1-2 weeks before Tet
- Hours: Extended shopping hours during this period
- Prices: Expect inflation on certain goods
- Transportation: Traffic becomes extremely congested
Weekend and Night Markets
Evening markets offer cooler temperatures and festive atmospheres.
Hanoi Weekend Markets
- Quang Ba Night Flower Market: Busiest from 2am-6am as retailers buy wholesale
- Phung Hung Weekend Walking Street: Art performances and craft vendors
- Ha Dong Night Market: Local market away from tourist areas
HCMC Weekend Experiences
- Starlight Bridge Night Market: Modern market with live music
- Ho Thi Ky Flower Street: Vibrant both day and night
- Turtle Lake Night Market: Popular with young locals
Beach Town Night Markets
Coastal cities offer seafood and holiday vibes:
- Nha Trang Night Market: Seafood and beach souvenirs
- Phu Quoc Night Market: Island specialties and seafood restaurants
- Mui Ne Market: Smaller but authentic local experience
Online Shopping Options for Tourists
Can’t fit everything in your suitcase? Vietnam’s e-commerce options can help.
Vietnamese E-commerce Platforms
- Shopee: Largest platform with English interface options
- Lazada: International platform operating in Vietnam
- Tiki: Domestic platform known for fast delivery
Delivery to Hotels
- Many shops offer same-day delivery to accommodations
- Most require cash on delivery
- Ask your hotel about their policy for receiving packages
Post-Trip Online Ordering
Some Vietnamese brands ship internationally:
- Maison Marou: Premium Vietnamese chocolate
- Saigon Soul: Vietnamese coffee subscription
- Metiseko: Sustainable fashion and home goods
Vegetarian or vegan travelers will love our Hanoi Vegetarian Street Food Tour, which can be combined with shopping for plant-based Vietnamese specialties!
Sustainable and Ethical Shopping in Vietnam
Support responsible businesses while bringing home meaningful souvenirs.
Fair Trade and Sustainable Brands
Ethical shopping options are growing throughout Vietnam.
Organizations Supporting Ethical Production
- Craft Link: Non-profit supporting traditional crafts and marginalized communities
- Reaching Out: Social enterprise employing people with disabilities in Hoi An
- KOTO: Training restaurant and gift shop supporting street youth
Certified Fair Trade Products
Look for these labels and organizations:
- Vietnam Fair Trade: Local certification
- World Fair Trade Organization: International standard
- Fair Trade Vietnam: Promoting ethical production
Social Enterprise Shops
Businesses with missions beyond profit:
- Mekong Quilts: Beautiful handmade quilts supporting rural women
- Zo Project: Handmade paper products preserving traditional techniques
- Healing the Wounded Heart: Products made from recycled materials by disabled artisans
Eco-Friendly Shopping Options
Vietnam’s sustainable shopping scene is rapidly expanding.
Zero-Waste Stores
Reducing packaging and plastic:
- Coconut Flower (Hanoi): Plastic-free household products
- The Sustainable Market (HCMC): Refillable home and personal care items
- Green Around the Corner (HCMC): Eco-friendly lifestyle store
Upcycled and Recycled Products
Creative reuse of materials:
- Chôm Chôm: Bags made from cement sacks and billboards
- Dalahouse: Jewelry from reclaimed wood and other materials
- Saigon Rescue: Products made from old advertising banners
Organic and Natural Products
Chemical-free alternatives:
- Organik House: Organic food products
- Vietgo: Natural personal care products
- Rustic Mortar: Handmade natural soaps and cosmetics
Supporting Minority Communities
Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups each have unique craft traditions.
Hmong and Other Ethnic Minority Crafts
- Indigo batik: Distinctive blue and white textiles
- Hemp clothing: Sustainably produced traditional fabrics
- Silver jewelry: Handcrafted by hill tribe silversmiths
NGO-Supported Shops
Organizations helping preserve cultural heritage:
- Sapa O’Chau: Social enterprise supporting Hmong community
- Mekong Plus: Working with rural communities in the Mekong Delta
- VNHIP: Supporting minority women near Hue
Direct Community Impact Shopping
- CBT Vietnam: Community-based tourism with direct purchasing
- Sapa Sisters: Trekking company and handicraft shop
- Ock Pop Tok Village Crafts: Supporting artisans near the Laos border
City-Specific Shopping Guides
Each Vietnamese city offers distinct shopping experiences reflecting regional specialties.
Hanoi Shopping Guide
The capital’s shopping scene blends ancient traditions with contemporary design.
Old Quarter Shopping Routes
A strategic path through the maze:
- Morning route: Hang Gai (silk) → Hang Hom (bamboo) → Hang Quat (religious items)
- Afternoon route: Hang Bac (silver) → Lan Ong (traditional medicine) → Hang Ma (decorative items)
- Shopping with history: Join our Hanoi Old Quarter Tour for the full cultural context behind these ancient shopping streets
West Lake Area Boutiques
Upscale shopping away from the crowds:
- Tay Ho district: Home to designer boutiques and concept stores
- 162 Xuân Diệu: Creative hub with indie designers
- Chula Fashion: Spanish-Vietnamese fusion designs
Half-Day Shopping Itineraries
Efficient routes for time-limited shoppers:
- Traditional crafts focus: Dong Xuan Market → Old Quarter craft streets → Hang Gai silk shops
- Contemporary design focus: Trang Tien Plaza → L’Usine → West Lake boutiques
- Mixed experience: Old Quarter morning → Trang Tien Plaza afternoon
Ho Chi Minh City Shopping Guide
Vietnam’s commercial hub offers everything from street markets to luxury malls.
District 1 Shopping Map
The heart of HCMC shopping:
- Dong Khoi Street: Luxury brands and high-end Vietnamese designers
- Le Loi Street: Department stores and mid-range shopping
- Ben Thanh area: Market shopping and surrounding boutiques
Hidden Shopping Gems in Other Districts
Beyond the obvious tourist spots:
- District 3: Boutique shops with lower prices than District 1
- District 5 (Chinatown): Wholesale markets and Chinese specialties
- District 2: International brands and expat-focused shopping
Shopping and Dining Combinations
Perfect pairings:
- Ben Thanh Market + Lunch at Ben Thanh Street Food Market
- Takashimaya + Rooftop dining at Saigon Centre
- Antiques Street (Le Cong Kieu) + Coffee at nearby Nguyen Hue walking street
Other Cities’ Shopping Highlights
Vietnam’s secondary cities each offer unique shopping opportunities.
Hoi An Shopping Beyond the Night Market
The ancient town’s shopping scene:
- Tailoring streets: Tran Hung Dao and Nguyen Duy Hieu
- Art galleries: Along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street
- Shoe shops: Custom leather goods on Ba Trieu Street
Da Nang Shopping Centers
Central Vietnam’s largest city:
- Han Market: Traditional indoor market
- Vincom Plaza Da Nang: Modern mall experience
- Con Market: Local goods at non-tourist prices
Nha Trang and Beach City Shopping
Coastal shopping highlights:
- Dam Market: Seafood and local specialties
- Nha Trang Center: Shopping mall with ocean views
- Louisiane Brewhouse: Shopping and dining complex on the beach
Practical Shopping Logistics
Smart planning makes for stress-free shopping experiences.
Transportation and Shopping
Getting around with your purchases:
- Taxis are abundant in major cities – use Mai Linh or Vinasun
- Grab app works throughout Vietnam for cars and motorbikes
- Cyclos are fun for Old Quarter shopping but agree on price first
- Walking is best in ancient towns like Hoi An and Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Getting to Major Shopping Areas
- Most markets are centrally located and walkable from tourist areas
- For craft villages, consider hiring a driver for the day
- Shopping malls often offer free shuttle services from major hotels
Shipping Purchases Home
For larger items:
- Vietnam Post: Government postal service, reliable but slower
- DHL/FedEx/UPS: Available in major cities, more expensive but faster
- Shop shipping: Many larger shops offer international shipping services
Luggage and Packing Considerations
- Collapsible duffel bags: Pack one for extra purchases
- Bubble wrap/clothing: To protect fragile souvenirs
- Vacuum bags: For compressing textiles and clothing
Shopping Vocabulary and Phrases
A few key words will enhance your shopping experience.
Essential Shopping Terms
- Bao nhiêu? = How much?
- Đắt quá! = Too expensive!
- Rẻ hơn được không? = Can it be cheaper?
- Tôi lấy cái này = I’ll take this one
Price Negotiation Phrases
- Giảm giá = Discount
- Mua nhiều giảm giá = Discount for buying many
- Đó là giá cuối cùng? = Is that the final price?
- Tôi sẽ suy nghĩ = I’ll think about it (often brings the price down!)
Quality and Authenticity Questions
- Hàng thật không? = Is it authentic?
- Làm ở đâu? = Where is it made?
- Chất liệu gì? = What material is it?
- Có bảo hành không? = Is there a warranty?
FAQs About Shopping in Vietnam
What are the best souvenirs to buy in Vietnam?
The most popular souvenirs include silk products, lacquerware, coffee, traditional conical hats (non la), and handmade crafts from ethnic minorities. For something unique, look for propaganda-style posters or locally designed contemporary items that blend traditional motifs with modern aesthetics.
How can I tell if silk is real in Vietnam?
Real silk burns with a smell similar to burning hair and turns to ash when burned, while synthetic fabrics melt into a plastic-like ball. Ask the vendor for a small thread sample if you’re unsure, or look for a smoother, more lustrous appearance and cool touch compared to synthetic alternatives.
Is it safe to use credit cards in Vietnam?
Credit cards are widely accepted in higher-end shops, malls, and hotels in major cities, but traditional markets and smaller shops are cash-only. When using cards, choose reputable establishments and keep an eye on your card during transactions. For extra security, consider using a credit card rather than a debit card.
What are the shopping hours in Vietnam?
Most shops and markets open around 8am or 9am and close between 7pm and 9pm. Shopping malls typically operate from 9am to 10pm. Traditional markets often open earlier (around 6am) for local shoppers. Night markets usually run from around 6pm until 10pm or later.
How much should I bargain in Vietnamese markets?
Start by offering 40-50% of the initial asking price, especially in tourist areas where prices are inflated. The final price is typically 60-70% of the original quote. Remember that extreme bargaining for tiny amounts can be counterproductive – a few thousand dong might mean little to you but more to the vendor.
Can I claim tax refunds on purchases in Vietnam?
Vietnam does have a VAT refund scheme for tourists, but it applies only to purchases from participating stores with a minimum value of 2 million VND (approximately $85). You’ll need to request a VAT refund form at the time of purchase and present it with your goods at the airport when departing.
What items are restricted for export from Vietnam?
Antiques (items over 100 years old), certain wildlife products, and large quantities of cash require special permits to export. Vietnam also prohibits the export of items related to national security. When purchasing antique-looking items, ask for documentation proving they are reproductions if they appear old.
Should I buy branded products in Vietnam?
Vietnam is known for counterfeit goods, and even in seemingly legitimate shops, many branded items are not authentic. Prices reflecting huge discounts from Western retail prices are a clear indication. If you want authentic branded products, stick to official stores in high-end malls, though prices may be higher than in Western countries due to import taxes.
How can I support ethical shopping in Vietnam?
Look for fair trade certifications, visit social enterprises like Craft Link or Reaching Out, and purchase directly from artisans when possible. Ask about production methods and working conditions, and be willing to pay a fair price rather than bargaining aggressively at places supporting disadvantaged communities.
Final Shopping Tips
Remember these key points for a successful Vietnam shopping experience:
- Cash is king – especially in markets and small shops
- Bargaining is expected but should be done with a smile
- Early morning offers the freshest selection and fewer crowds at markets
- Quality varies widely – inspect items carefully before purchasing
- Authentic crafts are worth the extra cost compared to mass-produced items
- Pack light coming to Vietnam to leave room for souvenirs
- Shipping services are available for larger purchases
- Shopping with locals gives you insider access to the best deals
Shopping in Vietnam is more than just acquiring souvenirs – it’s about engaging with a culture where commerce and daily life have been intertwined for thousands of years. Each purchase tells a story of Vietnam’s rich heritage, skilled craftsmanship, and evolving contemporary identity.
Ready to experience Vietnam’s vibrant shopping scene with expert local guidance? Explore our range of city tours that combine cultural insights with the best shopping opportunities across Vietnam. Whether you’re hunting for souvenirs in Hanoi’s Old Quarter or seeking hidden boutiques in Ho Chi Minh City, our knowledgeable guides will help you discover treasures you might otherwise miss.
Happy shopping in Vietnam!
