Collecting souvenirs while traveling is a delightful way to preserve cherished memories and bring a piece of your adventures home. Vietnam boasts a dazzling array of unique souvenirs, waiting to be discovered, from handcrafted objects steeped in tradition to delectable treats that tantalize the taste buds. Frontier Travel Vietnam will help you explore 18 unique Vietnam souvenirs when you travel in this country.
1. Silk
One of the awesome Vietnam souvenirs when traveling in this country is silk. Vietnamese silk is spun from the cocoons of meticulously raised silkworms. This natural origin translates into a luxuriously smooth texture and a luminous sheen that catches the light beautifully.
In addition, Vietnam has silk weaving techniques that have been meticulously passed down through generations, ensuring the preservation of this remarkable craft. Nowadays, Vietnam stands tall as the world's sixth-largest producer of silk and the third-largest silk exporter in Asia.
When traveling in Vietnam, you can buy silk at Hang Gai Street (or Silk Street), Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi), Hoi An’s boutiques and tailor shops, Saigon Square, Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City), Sapa,... Below are the prices of some silk products as Vietnam souvenirs:
Name of product | Price |
Silk scarves | $6.5 - $22 |
Silk clothing | $22 - $87 |
Silk accessories (including ties, pocket squares, bowties, handkerchiefs) | $9 - $35 |
Home decor items (including cushion table runners, covers, wall hangings,...) | $13 - $130 |
Tips for you to buy silk items: Before purchasing silk items, give it a thorough inspection. Look for snags, loose threads, or uneven color. Scrutinize the seams and stitching to ensure quality craftsmanship.
2. Ao Dai
Coming to the beautiful S-shaped country, you cannot miss the top Vietnamese souvenir - Ao Dai. The traditional Vietnamese garment, the Ao Dai, transcends mere clothing; it's a national symbol embodying timeless beauty, femininity, and sophistication. This elegant tunic, characterized by long flowing sleeves, a stand-up collar, and side slits that reach the waist, is often paired with palazzo-style pants.
Major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are brimming with tailor shops specializing in custom-made designs. They'll guide you through fabric, style, and measurements for a perfect fit, with prices ranging from $50 to $300. Alternatively, bustling markets like Ben Thanh (Ho Chi Minh City) and Dong Xuan (Hanoi) offer ready-to-wear Áo Dài at more affordable prices ($20 - $100).
Tips for you to buy an Ao Dai as Vietnam souvenirs:
- Custom-made: When opting for a bespoke Áo Dài, providing accurate measurements is crucial. The tailor will guide you and ensure a flawless fit.
- Ready-to-wear: Try before you buy! Pay close attention to the fit around your shoulders, waist, and length. Don't hesitate to ask for minor adjustments if needed.
3. Ceramics
Vietnamese ceramics - wonderful Vietnam souvenirs are a feast for the eyes. From graceful vases and functional bowls to decorative plates and charming figurines, these handcrafted pieces come in a captivating array.
Vietnamese ceramics were initially influenced by Chinese and Cham cultures. Over time, however, Vietnamese artisans carved their own path, infusing the art form with distinct characteristics. Today, Vietnamese kilns produce a captivating blend of both classic and contemporary styles, offering a piece of history for every collector.
You can buy Vietnamese ceramics in craft villages such as Bat Trang Ceramic Village and Phu Lang Pottery Village in Hanoi, or Chu Dau Ceramic Village in Hai Duong,... Below are the prices of Vietnamese ceramics types:
Type of product | Price |
Small decorative items (including small bowls, figurines or decorative pieces) | $20 - $30 |
Vases and bowls with medium-sized | $30 - $100 |
Large/specialty pieces (including intricate sculptures, vases,...) | From several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars |
Tip for you to buy Vietnamese ceramics: When buying ceramics, tourists need to check carefully to see if the pottery is cracked or has dull glaze - it could be poor quality. Besides, choose shops that offer secure packaging and can connect you with reliable shipping services. This ensures your piece arrives home safe and sound.
4. Paper lanterns
Vietnamese paper lanterns hold a deep significance within the country's cultural tapestry. They illuminate not just homes, but also the annual Mid-Autumn Festival. During this joyous celebration, families and communities gather under the light of these lanterns. The act of lighting them transcends mere decoration, it symbolizes the warding off of evil spirits and the welcoming of good fortune.
You can buy paper lanterns at the Hanoi Old Quarter Old Town Hoi An or Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City),... The cost of Vietnamese paper lanterns dances to the tune of size, design, and location. Simple handheld lanterns starting from just a few dollars and reaching around $10. Larger and more intricately designed lanterns can range from $20 to $50 or even climb higher depending on their complexity.
Tip for you to buy paper lanterns: Seek paper lanterns with sturdy bamboo frames that offer a strong foundation. The paper itself should be durable and high-quality, ensuring vibrant colors and intricate details stay sharp. Consider traditional choices like red, symbolizing luck, yellow for prosperity, or green for new beginnings.
5. Conical hats
Conical hats or nón lá are not only one of Vietnam souvenirs but also a cultural icon. Woven from natural materials like palm leaves, bamboo, or straw, the hat boasts a wide brim that gracefully slopes down from its conical crown. This design offers welcome respite from the Vietnamese sun, making it both stylish and functional for the country's hot and humid climate.
But the nón lá's significance extends beyond sun protection. It's a fashion statement, adding a touch of elegance to everyday attire. More importantly, it's deeply woven into the fabric of Vietnamese tradition. It appears in folklore and imagery, a silent testament to the country's rich heritage. Below are the prices and where to buy conical hats:
Where to buy | Price |
Local market (including Dong Xuan Market, Ben Thanh Market,...) | $1 - $2 |
Souvenir shops | $2 - $5 |
Craft villages (including Chuong Village, Kim Bong Village,...) | $5 - $20 |
Tip for you to buy conical hats: Choose one that sits snugly on your head without feeling constricting. In addition, Vietnamese conical hats come in many different types, from luxurious conical hats with many eye-catching decorative motifs to extremely simple basic conical hats. Please choose according to your preferences and personality.
6. Hand embroidery
Vietnamese hand embroidery is a beautiful tapestry woven from diverse influences. Chinese techniques, French artistic sensibilities, and indigenous Vietnamese styles all played a role in shaping its unique character.
The heart of Vietnamese embroidery lies in the meticulous hand stitching of intricate designs onto fabric. Using a needle and thread, skilled artisans bring their visions to life, a process demanding patience and a keen eye for detail. The chosen fabrics themselves are often luxurious, with silk, satin, and cotton providing a beautiful canvas for these artistic expressions.
You can buy hand embroidery at Hanoi Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market, Ben Thanh Market, Saigon Square, Hoi An, Sapa,... Prices of hand embroidery vary depending on the craftsmanship of the artist.
Tip for you to buy hand embroidery: Seek authentic hand-crafted pieces by skilled artisans. Mass-produced items may lack the artistry and quality of genuine handiwork.
7. Vietnam Calligraphy
In Vietnam, the art of transforming the written word into visual poetry is known as "thư pháp" (calligraphy) and this also special Vietnam souvenirs for visitors. Vietnamese calligraphy goes beyond simple penmanship, using elegant strokes and intricate designs to create visually stunning pieces.
Often incorporating both Chinese characters and Vietnamese ideograms, the art form boasts a rich history deeply connected to philosophies like Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. Traditional Vietnamese calligraphy frequently features famous quotes, proverbs, or verses from classical literature, serving as a bridge between the written word and artistic expression.
You can buy Vietnam calligraphy in temples and pagodas, traditional art villages such as Van Phuc Silk Village (Hanoi) or Phuoc Tich Village (Hue), Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi) or Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City),... Vietnam calligraphy prices vary based on size and complexity. Small pieces start around a few dollars to $50, while intricate or large works can reach hundreds.
Tip for you to buy Vietnam calligraphy: In Vietnam, the most popular time for calligraphy sales is during the Vietnamese New Year. In particular, asking for calligraphy at the beginning of the year is also a beauty of Vietnamese culture. In addition to the pre-written calligraphy, visitors can ask for words that convey the wish for good luck that they want.
8. Dong Ho paintings
Dong Ho paintings - unique Vietnam souvenirs, transcend mere aesthetics, they serve as vibrant windows into Vietnamese culture. Hailing from northern Vietnam, Dong Ho paintings captivate with their unique blend of folk themes and traditional printing techniques.
Each artwork has a story, meticulously crafted using woodblocks and natural colors. These hues derived from the bark, leaves, and minerals that surround the artisans. Intricate designs are first meticulously carved onto wooden blocks. Then, the artist applies ink or color to these blocks, transferring the image onto Do paper. This paper, a unique Vietnamese tradition in itself, is crafted from the bark of the Do tree, renowned for its remarkable durability.
You can buy Dong Ho painting in the Dong Ho village, roughly 35 kilometers east of Hanoi. Witness the captivating printing process firsthand and purchase a unique piece straight from the artisans. Besides, you can buy them in art galleries, craft stores, souvenir shops in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Prices vary based on size, intricacy of design and the artist's renown, ranging from a few dollars to around $50 for smaller items and several hundred dollars or more for larger ones.
Tip for you to buy Dong Ho painting: For authenticity, seek paintings bearing the Dong Ho village seal or stamp. In addition, examine the Do paper's sturdiness and the colors' vibrancy to ensure your piece remains a lasting treasure.
9. Propaganda Posters
Propaganda posters have bold colors, striking imagery, and powerful slogans. Employed by the government, these artworks transcended mere decoration, serving as potent tools for communication and persuasion. They aimed to unify the Vietnamese people, ignite feelings of patriotism, and disseminate key political messages.
These vibrant canvases often showcased heroic figures - soldiers, workers, and farmers - alongside iconic symbols of the Communist Party. Slogans advocating for revolution and national liberation resonated through these compelling artistic expressions.
You can buy Vietnam propaganda posters at the Hanoi Old Quarter or Ben Thanh Market, art galleries or museums in these two major cities,... The value of Vietnamese propaganda posters varies widely, ranging from a few dollars for reproductions to hundreds or even thousands for rare or valuable originals.
Tip for you to buy propaganda posters: Factors influencing their worth include age, condition, rarity, artistic merit and historical significance. After that, consider transport and display options. Rolled posters travel well, but framed pieces offer immediate visual impact. Discuss packaging and framing with the seller for optimal protection.
10. Vietnamese coffee
Vietnam boasts a unique coffee culture, celebrated for its robust flavors and distinctive brewing methods. The heart of this tradition lies in the phin, a small metal filter that sits atop your cup. Here, coarsely-ground, dark-roasted beans, often with a touch of chicory for added depth, slowly drip into your cup.
You can take a piece of it home with you in the form of packaged coffee beans or ground coffee. Local markets, supermarkets, and specialty coffee shops are all treasure troves for these flavorful souvenirs. Prices typically range from $5 to $15 per pack, depending on the quantity and quality of the beans you choose. In local cafes, you can experience the brewing process firsthand and savor a cup for just $1 to $3. Specialty coffee drinks or iced coffee variations might cost slightly more.
Tip for you to buy Vietnam coffee: Coffee roast levels range from medium to dark, with each offering a distinct character. For a brighter, slightly acidic taste, opt for a medium roast. If you prefer a bolder and more intense flavor, choose a dark roast. The grind size also plays a role. Pre-ground coffee is convenient, but whole beans offer superior freshness. If you have a grinder at home, consider purchasing whole beans for ultimate control over the grind size and maximum flavor potential.
11. Mung Bean Cake
Hailing from the north of Vietnam, particularly Hanoi, mung bean cake – or Banh Dau Xanh has a soft, slightly chewy texture that melts in your mouth. The natural sweetness of the mung beans takes center stage, offering a subtle yet satisfying flavor. Traditionally, the cake is molded into bite-sized squares or rectangular blocks, and its vibrant green color instantly catches the eye. Enjoyed as a dessert or a satisfying snack, mung bean cake is a staple in Vietnamese households.
You can buy mung bean cake at specialty food stores, local markets and souvenir shops in Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City. Mung bean cakes are budget-friendly treats, with prices ranging from a few dollars to around $10 to $15 per box, depending on the size and packaging.
Tip for you to buy mung bean cake: Mung bean cakes may include delightful surprises like coconut for a touch of creaminess, pandan leaves for a hint of floral aroma, or sesame seeds for a nutty crunch. With these variations, checking the ingredient list is key to ensure they align with your dietary needs and taste preferences.
12. Dried Candied Fruits
Next, dried candied fruits, also known as Mut, are a popular traditional treat made by preserving fruits in sugar syrup, creating a sweet and flavorful snack. Various fruits can be used including coconut, ginger, pineapple, lotus seeds, tamarind, kumquats, and more. Candied fruits are commonly enjoyed during special occasions and festivals in Vietnam, such as the Vietnamese New Year.
You can buy dried candied fruits at specialty food stores, local markets, and souvenir shops throughout Vietnam. Dried fruit prices vary depending on the fruit variety, quality, and packaging. During the Tet Holiday, the price of dried candied fruits starts from as low as $3.99.The price can be 3-4 times higher for higher-end types.
Tip for you to buy dried candied fruits: When selecting dried fruit, choose plump and vibrant-colored pieces – a sign of proper preservation. Avoid any that seem overly dry, discolored, or emit a stale aroma. For a more natural experience, don't hesitate to check the ingredient list. Look for products free from artificial flavorings or preservatives, allowing the inherent sweetness of the fruit to shine.
13. Vietnamese Tea
Vietnamese tea is a popular Vietnam souvenir for visitors to this country. Vietnam's rich tapestry of climates and landscapes fosters a bounty of tea varieties, each boasting unique qualities.
From the subtle grassy notes of green tea to the bold richness of black tea, the options abound. Oolong tea offers a middle ground, while jasmine and lotus teas weave in floral fragrances for a truly sensorial experience, green tea offers a light, grassy taste, while black tea delivers a bolder, richer experience.
You can buy Vietnamese tea in tea shops at Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, tea plantations of Moc Chau, Thai Nguyen, Bao Loc, Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi) or Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City),... Pricing varies due to brand popularity and quality. Visitors will pay $2 to $11 per 100 grams of tea.
Tip for you to buy Vietnamese tea as Vietnam souvenirs: Drinking strong tea can cause insomnia. However, most types of tea help blood circulation, strengthen the immune system, calm the mind,... Therefore, you should drink in moderation and adjust the strength of the tea to help your body stay healthy.
14. Green Sticky Rice
Green sticky rice is also known as Com. This delicacy graces tables primarily during the autumn months, a time when rice fields in the northern regions teem with life. This is crafted from young, green glutinous rice. Harvested before reaching full ripeness, these immature grains are then roasted and meticulously pounded to remove the husks. This process results in the characteristic vibrant green color and captivating fragrance that sets green sticky rice - Vietnam souvenirs apart.
Green sticky rice, or is a seasonal treasure primarily found in Hanoi and surrounding rice-growing areas. Look for it at local markets, specialty stores, and even souvenir shops. Prices typically range from $5 to $10 per 100 grams, making it an accessible treat to experience the unique flavors of the season.
Tip for you to buy green sticky rice: Green Sticky Rice is best enjoyed fresh. Look for well-sealed packaging, whether individual portions or decorative boxes, to ensure its delicate flavor and texture remain intact. Moisture can affect the quality, so avoid packaging that appears compromised.
15. Coconut Candy
Coconut candy - one of Vietnam's souvenirs, affectionately called "Keo Dua'' in their native tongue, is a sweet treat with roots in the Mekong Delta's bountiful coconut groves. Coconut candy is simply a combination of coconut milk and malt, bringing a sweet and greasy flavor to the enjoyer.
You can buy coconut candy at local markets, souvenir shops, and supermarkets. Venture deeper into the Mekong Delta, the heart of Vietnamese coconut production, and you might even stumble upon a coconut candy workshop. The price of this sweet souvenir varies depending on the brand, packaging, and location. Typically, a small pack weighing around 200 grams falls within the $2 to $6 range.
Tip for you to buy coconut candy as Vietnam souvenirs: Each coconut candy only has 20 kcal of calories and normally, we can only eat about 5 coconut candies a day, equivalent to about 100 kcal. This number of calories is only equivalent to 1/4 of a bowl of white rice filled with food. Therefore, we should eat coconut candy in moderation, especially for people with diabetes, to ensure their health.
16. Vietnamese Herbs & Spices
Traveling in Vietnam, don’t forget to buy Vietnam herbs & spices as Vietnam souvenirs. Vietnamese cuisine bursts with flavor thanks to a fragrant symphony of herbs and spices. Lemongrass, Thai basil, mint, cilantro, and the unique Vietnamese coriander weave their magic alongside warming spices like star anise, cinnamon, cloves, and ginger.
You can buy Vietnam herbs & spices at the Dong Xuan Market (Hanoi) or Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City), Mekong Delta,... Amongst these, fresh herbs often prove more budget-friendly than dried spices. Expect to pay around $0.50 to $2 per bunch of fresh herbs, while dried herbs typically fall in the $2 to $4 range.
Tip for you to buy Vietnam herbs & spices: With herbs, choose leaves that are crisp, brightly colored, and free of wilting or yellowing. Don't forget the aroma - a strong, pleasant fragrance indicates freshness. Dried spices need a sealed package. This ensures they retain their potency and flavor. While browsing, inspect the packaging for cleanliness and proper labeling.
17. Vietnam Fish Sauce
Fish sauce - one of Vietnam souvenirs when traveling, has a long history in the cuisine of Vietnam, up to thousands of years. A culinary alchemy unfolds as fish and salt undergo months or years of fermentation, transforming into a deep amber liquid. This aromatic elixir boasts a robust, savory depth that tantalizes the taste buds.
Ubiquitous in Vietnam, fish sauce graces shelves in local markets, supermarkets, and specialty stores at Phu Quoc Island, Phan Thiet and Nha Trang. Prices range from pocket-friendly options for small bottles (a few dollars) to premium or larger varieties exceeding $10.
Tip for you to buy Vietnam fish sauce: When choosing good fish sauce, you need to base it on characteristics such as color, protein, and flavor. Specifically, in terms of color, delicious standard fish sauce is golden brown, golden brown to red-brown, straw yellow or transparent, not cloudy. Do not choose fish sauce that is gray-green in color because it may be degraded.
18. Vietnam Rice Wine
The last Vietnam souvenir but extremely special - Vietnam rice wine. Vietnamese rice wine, a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture, boasts a rich heritage dating back centuries. Steeped in tradition, it graces tables during celebratory moments - weddings, festivals, and intimate family gatherings.
The preparation method of Vietnam rice wine is very simple. Glutinous rice is meticulously cooked before being fermented with yeast. This mixture undergoes a period of transformation, after which it's distilled to its final form. The resulting spirit, ranging from clear to slightly cloudy, offers a spectrum of flavors depending on the specific variety and production methods.
You can buy Vietnam rice wine throughout the country, especially in local markets and rural areas. Below are the prices of Vietnam rice wine as Vietnam souvenirs:
Type of product | Price |
Low-end/Local brands | $0.86 - $2.16 |
Mid-range | $2.16 - $6.47 |
Premium and Aged rice wine | $8.63 - $21.58 |
Tip for you to buy Vietnam rice wine as Vietnam souvenirs: Flavors and aromas can vary greatly based on production methods and ingredients, from sweeter options to those boasting a bolder alcoholic punch. Choose a bottle that suits your taste, whether you prefer a gentle sweetness or a more robust spirit.
Vietnam souvenirs, each a delightful reflection of the country's rich heritage and vibrant culture. As you navigate bustling markets and charming streets, a treasure trove of unique finds awaits. Frontier Travel Vietnam is your key to unlocking this captivating experience. From crafting tailored itineraries to providing you with experienced guides, we help you navigate your Vietnamese adventure.
