From traditional crafts to delicious treats, discover 16 unique Vietnam souvenirs in this guide, complete with expert tips for successful souvenir shopping. Collecting unique souvenirs is a wonderful way to cherish memories and bring a piece of your travels home. Vietnam, with its rich culture and vibrant markets, offers a plethora of fascinating items.

I/Silk Products

When shopping in Vietnam, silk products are a must-buy among traditional Vietnamese gifts. Renowned for their exquisite quality and meticulous craftsmanship, Vietnamese silk symbolizes elegance and beauty. The rich history of silk weaving in Vietnam dates back centuries, reflecting the country's cultural heritage and artisanal skills.

One of the best places to find these beautiful silk products is Hang Gai Street in Hanoi. Known as Silk Street, this bustling area is the ultimate destination for those looking to indulge in a wide range of Vietnamese silk souvenirs. From luxurious silk scarves and ties to intricately designed dresses and ao dai (traditional Vietnamese long dresses), the shops on Hang Gai Street offer an array of high-quality silk items that make perfect gifts or personal keepsakes.

Exploring this vibrant street, you’ll also have the opportunity to witness the skilled artisans at work, adding to the charm of your shopping experience. Whether you’re buying for yourself or for loved ones, Vietnamese silk products are timeless treasures that capture the elegance and cultural richness of Vietnam.

II/ Tribal Textiles

Tribal textiles are highly sought-after Vietnam souvenirs, offering tourists a chance to own uniquely exquisite, hand-stitched craftsmanship that is rare for Western visitors. Vietnam is home to a rich variety of ethnic groups, especially in the north, who continue to live and work as they have for centuries.

Purchasing authentic textiles from recognized dealers not only provides a beautiful keepsake but also helps preserve the traditional way of life and artistic skills of these communities. Fabrics typically start at around 15 USD, making them an affordable yet meaningful memento of your travels in Vietnam.

III/ Ao Dai

This traditional Vietnamese dress, primarily associated with women's fashion, features a long, flowing tunic worn by both men and women. The Ao Dai consists of a tight-fitting, high-collared top that extends down to the hips and is paired with long, flowing pants that reach the ankles. Often made from luxurious silk or other lightweight fabrics, the tunic is tailored to fit the wearer's body shape, creating a graceful and flattering silhouette.

Tailor Shops: In major cities like Hanoi, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh City, numerous tailors specialize in creating bespoke Ao Dai. These experts can guide you in selecting the fabric, design, and measurements to ensure a perfect fit. Prices range from approximately $50 to $300 or more, depending on the materials and complexity of the design.

Local Markets: Ready-to-wear Ao Dai can be found at local markets such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City or Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi. These markets offer a wide variety of designs and sizes at different prices, typically ranging from $20 to $100. However, the fit may not be as tailored as a custom-made Ao Dai.

IV/ Conical Hats (Non La) – A Traditional Vietnamese Souvenir to Bring Home

No trip to Vietnam is complete without bringing home one of its most cherished traditional souvenirs: the conical hat, or Non La. This iconic symbol of Vietnam is more than just a fashionable accessory; it's a practical item locals use to protect themselves from the sun and rain. Made from palm leaves and bamboo, these lightweight hats feature a wide brim and a distinctive conical shape that harkens back to the country's agricultural heritage.

V/ Lacquerware

Vietnamese lacquerware has its origins in the Hanoi College of Fine Arts during the French occupation in the 1930s. This intricate and time-consuming art form involves sealing paintings, inlays, engravings, and gold leaf designs under multiple layers of tree sap. The result is a stunning, glossy finish that enhances the beauty and durability of the pieces. Prices for lacquerware vary depending on the complexity and craftsmanship involved.

VI/ Hand Embroideries

To capture a piece of Vietnam's artistic heritage, hand embroideries make exceptional traditional souvenirs. Celebrated for their intricate beauty and meticulous craftsmanship, these embroidered works showcase the country's rich textile traditions. Whether featuring delicate floral designs or elaborate scenes from Vietnamese folklore, each piece is a stunning example of artistry and cultural depth.

VII/ Puppets & Masks

In traditional Vietnamese theater and festivals, puppets and masks play a vital role. Crafted from bamboo, palm leaves, and lacquer, these vibrant masks are especially popular in northern Vietnam. Their brightly painted faces capture the emotions of characters from folktales and legends, adding a vivid touch to cultural performances and celebrations throughout the year.

VIII/ Propaganda Posters

Vietnamese propaganda posters are known for their bold, vibrant designs and powerful imagery. Used by the government to communicate political messages, promote unity, and inspire patriotism, these posters often feature heroic figures, soldiers, workers, and peasants, along with Communist Party symbols and revolutionary slogans.

You can find these historical artifacts in street markets like the Old Quarter in Hanoi or Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, where vendors offer a range of souvenirs, including propaganda posters. These markets provide plenty of options and opportunities for bargaining.

Antique shops and galleries in major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City may also offer vintage propaganda posters for sale. Additionally, some museums and art galleries focused on history and art may have exhibitions or dedicated sections where you can view and purchase replicas or prints of these iconic posters.

Prices vary widely, from a few dollars for basic reproductions to several hundred dollars or more for well-preserved originals or rare pieces.

IX/ Paper Lanterns

Paper lanterns are a fantastic choice for Vietnam souvenirs. Compact, packable, and ready to travel, these traditional lanterns bring a touch of Vietnamese charm to any space, whether it's a garden or bedroom. Available in a dazzling array of colors and materials, with prices starting around 4 USD, these lanterns are an affordable way to add vibrant style to your home. If you’re looking to splurge, consider the silk variety for an extra touch of luxury.

X/ Bamboo Bowls, Baskets, and Bathmats

Bamboo bowls, baskets, and bathmats are beloved by both locals and tourists. This adaptable material lends itself to a wide range of traditional and contemporary designs, all crafted by hand. With options available to fit any budget, bamboo products offer a stylish and practical way to bring a piece of Vietnamese craftsmanship into your home.

XI/ Pottery and Ceramics

Vietnamese pottery and ceramics come in many forms, such as vases, bowls, plates, and figurines, known for their intricate designs and diverse styles. These pieces are crafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations, resulting in both classic and contemporary styles.

For authentic ceramic products, visit craft villages like Bat Trang and Phu Lang in Hanoi, or Chu Dau in Hai Duong. Hoi An is also renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and workshops offering a wide selection of pottery and ceramics.

XII/ Chopsticks

Upon returning from your Vietnamese adventures, a set of chopsticks will likely be the most affordable yet iconic memento of the delicious, steaming bowls of phở and bún chả you enjoyed along the way. Starting at just 1 USD per pair, they make a memorable and budget-friendly souvenir.

XIII/ Top Edible Vietnam Souvenirs to Gift Your Friends and Family: Coconut Candy + Vietnamese mung bean cake 

Coconut candy is a cherished Vietnamese delicacy that's perfect for an edible souvenir. Crafted from coconut milk, sugar, and occasionally enhanced with flavors like roasted peanuts or sesame seeds, this chewy and sweet treat is adored by both locals and visitors. Its blend of creamy coconut and caramelized sweetness offers a truly delightful flavor experience.

Vietnamese mung bean cake, or “banh dau xanh,” is a renowned souvenir that lets you share a taste of your Vietnamese journey. This traditional sweet delicacy features a delicate outer layer made from glutinous rice flour and a rich mung bean paste filling. Steamed or baked to perfection, the cake has a soft and chewy texture that melts in your mouth, capturing the essence of Vietnamese flavors.

XIV/ Vietnamese Coffee and Tea

XV/ Vietnamese salted dried fruits

XVI/ Vietnam Souvenirs: Vietnamese Herbs and Spices

For food enthusiasts back home, Vietnamese herbs and spices make an ideal Vietnam souvenir. These essential ingredients form the backbone of the country’s renowned cuisine, celebrated globally for its perfect balance of fresh flavors, enticing aromas, and delightful textures. With regional cooking classes available from the Mekong Delta to Sapa, you can channel your inner chef and bring a taste of Vietnam with you. Sachets of herbs start at just 3 USD, making it easy to share a piece of Vietnamese culinary magic.

Vietnam souvenirs provide a charming way to capture the essence of the country’s rich culture and bring home treasured reminders of your trip. With a diverse range of options, from traditional crafts to delectable treats, there's something for everyone. Whether you select handcrafted lacquerware, intricate hand embroideries, or iconic conical hats, each souvenir tells a story and reflects Vietnam's vibrant heritage.