What Are The Best Souvenirs To Buy In Vietnam? It's a country full of special souvenirs—Vietnam literally is a treasure house of opportunities for travelers to take pieces of its rich culture and craftiness home. From intricately woven textiles and traditional conical hats to vibrant lacquerware and fragrant spices, markets and shops across Vietnam are filled with one-of-a-kind items that become perfect keepsakes. Whether it's a gift or simply a keepsake, knowing what to buy and where to find it makes the shopping experience so much better. Find yourself the best souvenir from Vietnam and let each item tell its story in your journey through this stunning land.
What Are The Best Souvenirs To Buy In Vietnam? Shopping in Vietnam is both very exciting and full of immersion, from busy markets to little Vietnam souvenir shop that express a rich culture and heritage with traditional handwork and modern products. In cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the peninsula markets, like Dong Xuan and Ben Thanh, are an absolute must. They are abuzz with silk, ceramics, and intricate handicrafts stalls to wander through. This pulsating atmosphere is made more so with the fact of bargaining, as a whole activity in itself for shopping at these markets.
Besides the traditional markets, you will also find modern shopping malls and specialty stores where you can attend to get high-quality products, from fashion and accessories to electronics and home decor. Districts like Hoi An are famous for tailor-made clothes; talented craftsmen here create custom-designed outfits at a fraction of the cost elsewhere. Whether you are seeking out best souvenir from Vietnam, custom-made clothing, or a taste of the local life, shopping in Vietnam caters to each need, and hence, is a truly integral part of the travel experience.
II. Best souvenirs to buy in Vietnam
1. Lacquerware
Lacquerware is one of the oldest and most traditional crafts of Vietnam souvenirs, associated with the painstaking job of coating different wooden objects with multiple coats of lacquer-a kind of varnish-finally polishing it into an exceptional high shine that really brings beauty to every available article. In this wonderful art, you will find a variety of items manifesting the craft: vases, bowls, jewelry boxes, and paintings-all, for the most part, done with enriched designs and skillful inlays of mother-of-pearl, adding depth and class to each.
2. Water puppets
Hailing from the very beautiful and historic Red River Delta region of Vietnam, this art form, in its own right, is a form of traditional Vietnamese water puppetry that has been passed on for generations. A unique and special souvenir to remember this enthralling cultural show, you get to buy little beautifully crafted water puppet figurines that are incredibly detailed and nicely done. Truly the best souvenir from Vietnam.
3. Art and Paintings
From the colorful markets of the local art, right through to modern galleries around the nation, Vietnamese art is awash with great variety, not only with its traditional ingredients but with highly contemporary works. This Vietnam souvenirs is a well-endowed arts scene where the masterly achieved lacquer paintings are to be treasured, silken paintings at their delicate best, and sometimes some really innovative reinterpretations that can, indeed, be covers for traditional themes but to an interestingly minted effect.
4. Products Made of Bamboo and Rattan
Bamboo and rattan are used all over Vietnam to produce baskets, trays, ornaments, furniture, and many other things. These products belong to a class of goods that are not only light and eco-friendly but also functional and decorative. For this reason, this Vietnam souvenirs can be seen as very unique gifts, carriers of Vietnamese craftsmanship and culture at the same time.
5. Musical Traditional Instruments
Vietnam has an ancient tradition of music, so you might come across a dan bau-one-string zither, a dan tranh-plucked zither, or even bamboo flutes. Apart from being an unusual ornament, this will allow you to have a small fragment of Vietnamese culture inside your home. Best to get this Vietnam souvenirs if you like playing music or would like to give to your musical friends.
6. Tea
Essentially, in the northern part of Vietnam, there is a kind of tradition that has been deeply rooted and passed down for generations relating to drinking tea. In this region, one can easily find a huge selection of superior green tea along with other varieties like lotus tea and jasmine tea that are up for sale. In many instances, these delectable drinks will be nicely wrapped up in stylish, eye-catching wraps that add to their beauty as a Vietnam souvenirs. Additionally, one may also think that a nicely packed set of tea, accompanied by a wonderfully designed teapot and teacups, can also be another great and thoughtful present for any loved one.
7. Incense and Essential Oils
Incense is one of the most imperative ingredients in the spiritual life of Vietnamese people. They generally burn incense not only in temples but also within their households. Once you step into this rich culture of application of perfuming, you are allowed to choose between the most soothing scents, such as that of sandalwood, to the warm and welcoming aromatic olfactory power of cinnamon, well-packed in beautiful and appealing boxes that dress them up. In addition, natural local elements like lemongrass or peppermint combined with their pleasant fragrance and therapeutic usage generate essential oils which are so popular among people interested in natural ways to treat wellness and relaxation. It is one of the best souvenir from Vietnam culture and tradition for sure.
8. Rice Paper Art
It is a traditional Vietnamese folk art originating from the village of Dong Ho, located in Bac Ninh Province. Characterized by bright colors and a minute illustrative pattern, this form of art uses natural materials in the form of 'do' paper and paints made from handmade organic sources. Most of the themes describe daily life, historical events, and cultural symbols as reflections of Vietnam's rich heritage. These Dong Ho paintings are traditionally used during Lunar New Year celebrations. Simple yet rich in meaning, this Vietnam souvenirs offer an interesting contrast by connecting the viewer with Vietnam's cultural identity.
9. Marble Sculptures
Marble Mountain, near Da Nang, is home to marble quarries and skilled sculptors in abundance. You can purchase the beautiful intricately carved marble statues as a Vietnam souvenirs that vary from a small figurine to a large decorative piece of art and great mementos of your journey.
10. Vietnamese Pearls
These fine pearls are held in high esteem in the world of jewelry, and they come mainly from the different areas of production found along the unpolluted coastline of Vietnam. The most striking and famous, however, is Ha Long Bay. Once you gaze into what these beautiful stones can offer, you will be astonished by the numerous choices for fashionable pearl necklaces, classic earrings, and elegant rings. There is an amazing array of colors, along with fully articulated designs available, all of this can be yours for just a fraction of the price a person might imagine paying for similar merchandise on some other marketplaces around the globe. One of the best Vietnam souvenirs you can find, truly.
11. Traditional Paper Lanterns
During festive seasons, the home and street of Hoi An light up with color paper lanterns. These silk or paper lanterns are usually made in a variety of shapes and sizes and fold flat to pack easily. They come as a lovely way to take back part of Vietnamese tradition with you. One of the best souvenir from Vietnam from Hoi An.
12. Vietnamese Spirits (Rice Wine and Snake Wine)
The best souvenir from Vietnam is this. This particular aspect would again be relevant for those individuals who have a more adventurous spirit and actually look for something different, such as buying Vietnamese rice wine, better known as ruou or even the more exotic snake wine-which is just rice wine with the addition of a whole snake or some other fascinating creature in it. Such alcoholic beverages are known to be highly potent and quite distinctive in taste and are often associated with a number of medicinal properties which many locals believe in, making them not only unusual but quite interesting gifts for those people who have a real interest in exploring and understanding local customs and traditions. All in all, one of the best souvenir from Vietnam.
III. Tips for buying souvenirs in Vietnam
Here are a few tips for shopping the best souvenir from Vietnam:
Bargain Respectfully
Bargaining happens to be the way of life in Vietnam, at least for markets and smaller Vietnam souvenir shop. You can start with the initial estimate and offer any bargain price within approximately 50-70% of the estimate. However, remember to always do a very smiling bargaining because the process, as they say, is as fun as trying to get a good deal.
Check for Authenticity
Some souvenirs, such as silk products, pearls, and traditional handicrafts, tend to be copied very frequently. If you want to make sure you'll get the real thing, make your purchases from reputable shops, government stores, or better yet, from the craftsmen and women in the craft villages. If something really seems too cheap to be true, it most likely is.
Understand Export Regulations
Some items, such as antiques or products made from endangered species, may be illegal to export. Ask the seller and consider local regulations if you're uncertain whether an item can be exported. This is especially important for unique souvenirs, such as traditional music instruments, ancient coins, or large quantities of some items.
Pack Wisely
When purchasing fragile or taking up a lot of space in your luggage, for example, lacquer ware, ceramics, or works of art, make sure to consider bringing them. Then ask the seller to securely pack your purchased items, and if they are big things like a marble statue, ask for shipping options—together with asking your airline whether they accept large goods for carriage—or just ship the item to your home.
Support Local Crafters
Buy mementos where it is possible from local artisans or in villages known for specific crafts. It is handmade and of quality, supporting the local economy and preserving traditional craftsmanship. Places like Bat Trang for pottery and Sapa for ethnic minority textiles are great for this.
What Are The Best Souvenirs To Buy In Vietnam? There you have your answers. They will help you shop wisely and take high-quality souvenirs home from Vietnam; meaningful souvenirs that reflect your experience and help local communities benefit. If you wish to have a wonderful holiday in Vietnam, don't hesitate to contact Autour Asia - best travel agency in Vietnam. We invite you to experience the genuine beauty of the Vietnamese people and memorable moment during your travels.
Buying Vietnam souvenirs is highly recommended as it allows you to bring a piece of the country’s rich culture and craftsmanship back home. Vietnam is known for its diverse and unique souvenirs, such as traditional textiles, lacquerware, handmade ceramics, and artisan crafts that reflect the country’s cultural heritage. Items like silk scarves, intricately designed lacquered trays, and unique pottery from places like Bat Trang make for meaningful and beautiful keepsakes. Additionally, local spices and teas, including Vietnam’s famous coffee and green tea, are practical souvenirs that offer a taste of Vietnamese flavors. Purchasing souvenirs not only provides you with tangible memories of your trip but also supports local artisans and their traditional crafts. Moreover, shopping for souvenirs can be an enjoyable part of your travel experience, giving you the chance to interact with local vendors and learn more about their craft. Just be sure to buy from reputable sources and check for any export restrictions on certain items. Overall, Vietnamese souvenirs offer a wonderful way to commemorate your journey and share the beauty of Vietnam with friends and family.
Anthony
5.0Excellent
Can i bring Vietnam souvenirs back ?
Yes, you can bring Vietnam souvenirs back home, but it's essential to be aware of and follow regulations to ensure a smooth process. Most commonly purchased souvenirs, such as textiles, ceramics, lacquerware, and local food products like coffee and spices, are typically allowed through customs. However, you should check the specific customs regulations of your home country regarding the import of food items and plants to avoid issues. For example, some countries have restrictions on bringing fresh produce, seeds, or certain animal products. Ensure that any souvenirs you buy are not made from endangered species or protected materials, as these could be subject to import restrictions or confiscation. Additionally, be mindful of the size and weight of your souvenirs, as these may affect your luggage limits or incur extra fees. When purchasing souvenirs, it's also helpful to obtain receipts and keep them in case you need to declare items to customs. By following these guidelines and being informed about your destination country's regulations, you can bring back memorable keepsakes from Vietnam without any complications.
Daniel Anderson
5.0Excellent
Should i buy Vietnam souvenirs ?
Vietnam souvenirs is highly recommended as it allows you to bring a piece of the country’s rich culture and craftsmanship back home. Vietnam is known for its diverse and unique souvenirs, such as traditional textiles, lacquerware, handmade ceramics, and artisan crafts that reflect the country’s cultural heritage. Items like silk scarves, intricately designed lacquered trays, and unique pottery from places like Bat Trang make for meaningful and beautiful keepsakes. Additionally, local spices and teas, including Vietnam’s famous coffee and green tea, are practical souvenirs that offer a taste of Vietnamese flavors. Purchasing souvenirs not only provides you with tangible memories of your trip but also supports local artisans and their traditional crafts. Moreover, shopping for souvenirs can be an enjoyable part of your travel experience, giving you the chance to interact with local vendors and learn more about their craft. Just be sure to buy from reputable sources and check for any export restrictions on certain items. Overall, Vietnamese souvenirs offer a wonderful way to commemorate your journey and share the beauty of Vietnam with friends and family. -->
Buying Vietnam souvenirs is highly recommended as it allows you to bring a piece of the country’s rich culture and craftsmanship back home. Vietnam is known for its diverse and unique souvenirs, such as traditional textiles, lacquerware, handmade ceramics, and artisan crafts that reflect the country’s cultural heritage. Items like silk scarves, intricately designed lacquered trays, and unique pottery from places like Bat Trang make for meaningful and beautiful keepsakes. Additionally, local spices and teas, including Vietnam’s famous coffee and green tea, are practical souvenirs that offer a taste of Vietnamese flavors. Purchasing souvenirs not only provides you with tangible memories of your trip but also supports local artisans and their traditional crafts. Moreover, shopping for souvenirs can be an enjoyable part of your travel experience, giving you the chance to interact with local vendors and learn more about their craft. Just be sure to buy from reputable sources and check for any export restrictions on certain items. Overall, Vietnamese souvenirs offer a wonderful way to commemorate your journey and share the beauty of Vietnam with friends and family.
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We have just returned from an exceptional 10-day, 9-night journey through Northern Vietnam and Cambodia, meticulously arranged by Autour Asia Travel for our group of six. The...View More
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Our 23-day private tour with AutourAsia was fantastic! It was our third time booking with them, and they once again provided outstanding service. Ms. Van Le, our contact, was...View More
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Truly exceptional trip Vietnam Cambodia
Our recent tour to Vietnam and Cambodia was truly exceptional, featuring a mix of visits to both well-known attractions and hidden gems off the beaten path. The entire experience...View More
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Wonderful trip to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam
We reached out to Tina for our trip to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, and the experience she arranged for us was absolutely wonderful. Our time in the Mekong was filled with...View More
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France
Top travel agent in Hanoi
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Steven E
France
Perfect end-to-end experience
Initially, I had some reservations because there were only a few reviews available online about this agency. However, I am pleased to report that everything turned out flawlessly...View More
We recently enjoyed a fantastic three-week trip with a family of eleven, expertly organized by Mrs. Van Le. Our journey began with a seven-day tour in Hanoi, followed by six days in central Vietnam, and concluded with the remainder of our time in Saigon.
Everything went smoothly thanks to her professionalism, warmth, and kindness.
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Exceptional service of Vietnam and Cambodia Tour 13 days
We have just returned from an exceptional 10-day, 9-night journey through Northern Vietnam and Cambodia, meticulously arranged by Autour Asia Travel for our group of six. The experience was outstanding in every regard!
From the moment we shared our preferences—such as the duration of our trip, budget, accommodation ratings, and desired activities—they took care of every detail with remarkable efficiency. The personalized itinerary they crafted was flawless, reflecting their superb attention to detail and commitment to ensuring our satisfaction.
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Vincent W
Philippines
Memorable 23 day private tour Vietnam Laos
Our 23-day private tour with AutourAsia was fantastic! It was our third time booking with them, and they once again provided outstanding service. Ms. Van Le, our contact, was incredibly helpful and patient, even as we made several changes to our itinerary. She was available at all times and even assisted with our return flight issues.
We explored Vietnam and Laos extensively, and as picky travelers, we were thoroughly impressed. The company owner greeted us personally, adding a special touch to our trip, and our guides, Mr. Ping and Mr. Sang, were excellent.
If you're considering a trip to Indochina, I highly recommend AutourAsia. Great service and very reasonable prices!
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France
Truly exceptional trip Vietnam Cambodia
Our recent tour to Vietnam and Cambodia was truly exceptional, featuring a mix of visits to both well-known attractions and hidden gems off the beaten path. The entire experience was made memorable by the warm hospitality, attentiveness, and high quality of services provided throughout our stay.
One highlight of our trip was the cooking class in Hoi An Ecotour, where we had the opportunity to learn how to prepare traditional Vietnamese dishes like Nem spring rolls and flower salad. The hands-on experience was both fun and educational, and it gave us a deeper appreciation for the local cuisine.
We wholeheartedly recommend this trip to anyone seeking an enriching travel experience. A big thank you to Mr. Duy, Ms. Van Le, and the entire AutourAsia team for their exceptional service and for making our stay so enjoyable.
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Pauline C
France
Wonderful trip to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam
We reached out to Tina for our trip to the Mekong Delta in Vietnam, and the experience she arranged for us was absolutely wonderful. Our time in the Mekong was filled with unforgettable and authentic experiences that truly allowed us to immerse ourselves in the local culture and lifestyle.
Among the highlights of our trip was the opportunity to make rice paper by hand, which was not only fascinating but also gave us a deep appreciation for the skill and effort involved in this traditional craft. We also visited a coconut candy factory, where we observed the intricate process of making these delicious treats and even had the chance to taste them fresh from the production line. One of the most memorable parts of our journey was rowing down the serene waterways in a traditional sampan, surrounded by the lush greenery and tranquil atmosphere of the delta.
We are incredibly grateful to Autour Asia for organizing such a rich and meaningful itinerary, and especially to Tina for her meticulous planning and dedication to providing us with an authentic experience. Her attention to detail and passion for showcasing the beauty and culture of Vietnam truly made this trip special. Thank you, Tina, for an unforgettable adventure in the Mekong Delta!
Sampan cruise in Mekong
Experience making rice paper
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Etienne S
France
Top travel agent in Hanoi
During our time with one of the top travel agencies in Hanoi, we embarked on a memorable 5-day tour that took us through Pu Luong, Ninh Binh, and Lan Ha Bay. Our experience included two days aboard a boat, which were truly exceptional. Lan Ha Bay, with its stunning scenery and charming fishing village on the water, offered a peaceful atmosphere and far fewer crowds compared to Ha Long Bay.
The onboard experience was outstanding—the comfort, service, and meals exceeded all our expectations. I was genuinely impressed by the entire arrangement, thanks in large part to Tina, who expertly managed our itinerary. Her excellent communication and quick responsiveness made a significant difference in our experience. Additionally, I want to express my gratitude to our courteous driver and our two knowledgeable guides, who continually sparked our curiosity and enriched our journey.
I highly recommend this tour to anyone looking to explore the beauty of Vietnam in an unforgettable way.
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Dinner on board a Halong junk
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Asiz T
France
Travel to Thailand 15 days
I want to express my sincere gratitude to Autour Asia for arranging an exceptional trip to Thailand. The entire journey was meticulously planned and flawlessly executed. Every detail was handled with precision, and everything ran smoothly and on schedule.
A special thank you goes to Ms. Van Le for her exceptional availability and support throughout the planning process. Her dedication ensured that our trip was both seamless and enjoyable.
I wholeheartedly recommend Autour Asia for their outstanding service and professionalism. I am eagerly looking forward to embarking on another adventure with them in the future.
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Experience in Bangkok Thailand
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Yanide T
France
18 extraordinary days trip in Thailand
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Van Le for crafting an exceptional 18-day bespoke journey that made our family reunion truly unforgettable. This meticulously planned trip allowed us to fully enjoy our time together, including celebrating an extraordinary birthday in the heart of the jungle, complete with a delightful surprise cake!
The journey through Thailand was beautifully curated, featuring an engaging and unexpected itinerary filled with fascinating experiences. We were accompanied by warm and knowledgeable guides, whose friendliness and expertise enriched our travels immensely.
In summary, our trip surpassed all expectations. It was perfectly tailored to our family's needs, offering extraordinary and unique visits and activities, all while ensuring a stress-free experience. We couldn't have envisioned a better trip. Thank you, Van Le, for making this adventure so remarkable and memorable.
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Cruise on Phraya River
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Steven E
France
Perfect end-to-end experience
Initially, I had some reservations because there were only a few reviews available online about this agency. However, I am pleased to report that everything turned out flawlessly from the initial booking through to our return to France.
Madame Van Le promptly responded to our initial inquiry and subsequently arranged a comprehensive 10-day itinerary for us in South Vietnam. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by Mr. Nam, our driver, who was waiting for us at the airport in a well-maintained, air-conditioned Ford Everest. He then transported us to our hotel. The following day, we were introduced to Mr. Triều, our guide, who accompanied us throughout our excursion.
The entire stay was seamless, and thanks to this agency, we had the opportunity to explore South Vietnam in the most enjoyable way possible.