What Is The Best Souvenir From Vietnam?

Vietnam Souvenirs: The meaningful gifts You Can’t Return Home Without

Are you wondering about the best souvenirs from Vietnam to bring back home for your friends, family, or even yourself? With so many unique options, choosing the right gift can always feel confusing.

If you’re like me, you love finding meaningful souvenirs that bring back memories every time you see them at home. Instead of mass-produced fridge magnets or generic trinkets, why not pick up authentic, hand-crafted gifts that showcase Vietnamese culture while supporting local artisans and businesses? After all, traveling with purpose makes every souvenir even more special!

Bringing home souvenirs from trip is a wonderful way to hold onto cherished memories and to remember your adventures. Vietnam offers an incredible variety of unique gifts, ranging from traditional handcrafted items to delicious local treats or even a great variety of Vietnamese Tropical Fruits.

With so many options to choose from, here I have listed 20 of the must-have souvenirs to make your trip even more memorable.

1. Ao Dai for both Men & Women

The Ao Dai, Vietnam’s national dress, is more than just an outfit—it’s a cultural icon symbolizing elegance & tradition. Worn by both men and women, its graceful silhouette has evolved over centuries, shifting from royal attire to everyday wear and high fashion. Featuring flowing sleeves, a stand-up collar, and signature side slits, the Ao Dai is often paired with palazzo-style pants for a sophisticated look.

For those looking to bring home this iconic Vietnamese souvenir, major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City offer countless tailor shops crafting custom-made Ao Dai, with prices ranging from US$100 to US$300. Markets like Ben Thanh in saigon and Dong Xua, in Hanoi, provide more affordable options to buy cost between $20 and $100. If order to tailor the Ao Dai, ensure accurate measurements for a flawless fit. When buying off-the-rack, check the shoulders, waist, and length, and don’t hesitate to request minor adjustments. Check out more about Vietnam’s national dress

2. Vietnamese silk products

Vietnamese silk is probably, one of the best souvenirs to bring home. Made from silkworm cocoons, this high-quality fabric offers a smooth texture and a radiant sheen that catches the light beautifully.

And, did you that silk once served as currency in trade and significantly shaped Vietnam’s history and economic growth. It still holds a prominent place in Vietnamese culture today.

When buying for authentic Vietnamese silk, explore top souvenir stores at Hang Gai Street (Silk Street) and Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi, or visit the famous boutiques and tailor shops in Hoi An. Meanwhile, Saigon Square and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City offer a variety of silk products at different price points. If you venture north to Sapa, you’ll also discover unique, locally woven silk fabrics. No matter where you’re buying a piece of silk fabric, Vietnam’s souvenir stores provide plenty of choices for a meaningful keepsake.

3. The Coffee from Vietnam

If there’s one thing travelers rave about after visiting Vietnam, it’s probably the taste of Coffee in Vietnam. From the bold kick of black coffee to the creamy sweetness of coffee with condensed milk, and the unique flavors of yogurt coffee and also, the egg coffee, Vietnam offers an endless array of must-try brews. As the world’s top Robusta coffee exporter, the country doesn’t just grow beans—it masters the art of brewing them. For an authentic souvenir back home, grab a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter and a bag of locally roasted coffee for as little as 200.000 (USD10).

4. Local Bamboo Products

Locals been using it for generations but tourists probably don’t think that bamboo products are as cheap as a few dollar to get a unique Vietnam souvenir out of it back home.  From bowls and baskets to bathmats. This versatile material transforms into countless traditional and unique designs, offering both style and functionality. Skilled artisans craft these pieces by hand, ensuring a wide selection that suits any budget. Whether you’re looking for a simple souvenir or a unique home décor item, bamboo’s natural charm makes it a perfect choice.

5. Ceramics from Bat Trang, near Hanoi

Vietnamese ceramics, specially from Bat Trang, a small village right next to the red river, near Hanoi, make for stunning souvenirs, blending artistry and tradition. From elegant vases and functional bowls to decorative plates and charming figurines, these handcrafted pieces showcase a wide variety of designs.

Originally shaped by Chinese and Cham influences, local ceramics have evolved into a distinct art form. Skilled artisans have developed unique styles, creating a harmonious mix of classic and modern aesthetics. Today, these ceramics reflect both history and innovation, making them a prized addition for collectors.

For authentic ceramics, visit Bat Trang Ceramic Village and Phu Lang Pottery Village in Hanoi. Below are the price ranges for different types of Vietnamese ceramics you can bring back home as a local souvenir from Hanoi:

6. Paper lantern from Hoi An

Vietnamese paper lanterns, specially from Hoi An, make excellent souvenirs from Vietnam, bringing a touch of traditional charm to any home. These flat, packable lanterns come in a variety of stunning colors and materials, with silk lanterns being a more luxurious choice. Whether decorating a garden or bedroom, they add a warm and elegant Vietnamese aesthetic.

In Hoi An, these lanterns hold deep cultural significance, especially during the Mid-Autumn Festival when they symbolize good fortune and protection from evil spirits. Beyond their beauty, they represent an important part of Vietnamese heritage.

For those looking to buy souvenirs in Hoi An, the Ancient Town is the best place to find authentic paper lanterns. Other great spots include Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City. Prices vary based on size and design, with small handheld lanterns starting at just a few dollars, while intricately crafted, larger lanterns range from $20 to $50 or more.

Buying Tip: Look for lanterns with strong bamboo frames for durability. High-quality paper ensures vibrant colors and intricate details last longer. If you’re seeking traditional pattern, red represents luck, yellow signifies prosperity, and green symbolizes new beginnings.

7. Conical Hat – A Must-Have Souvenir from Vietnam

The nón lá, or Vietnamese conical hat, is more than just a Vietnam souvenir—it embodies the country’s cultural heritage. Woven from palm leaves, bamboo, and straw, its wide brim shields against the sun, making it both practical and stylish in Vietnam’s hot climate.

Beyond daily use, the nón lá carries deep cultural meaning. A timeless symbol of grace, it appears in folklore and art, shaping the iconic Vietnamese silhouette. Worn by all ages and genders, it’s especially popular among farmers, vendors, and boat rowers working outdoors.

For those seeking this classic Vietnamese souvenir, conical hats are found at Dong Ba Market in Hue, Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Prices start at a few dollars for simple versions, with hand-embroidered designs ranging from $3 to $5.(VND 75 to 125)

8. Vietnamese Calligraphy Poetry (thư pháp)

Vietnamese thư pháp (calligraphy) turns words into stunning visual art, making it a must-have Vietnam souvenir. More than just writing, it blends meaningful words with intricate designs in form of calligraphy art.

This traditional craft draws inspiration from Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism. Calligraphers inscribe classical literature, famous quotes, or proverbs, merging artistic beauty with deep cultural wisdom.

For those seeking Vietnamese calligraphy, best places to get one ordered and framed include temples, pagodas, and traditional art villages like Van Phuc Silk Village (Hanoi) and Phuoc Tich Village (Hue). Markets like Dong Xuan (Hanoi) and Ben Thanh (Ho Chi Minh City) also feature a wide selection. Prices range from a few dollars for small pieces.

The best time to get calligraphy is during Tet (Vietnamese New Year) when people request custom pieces for luck and prosperity. Many artists offer personalized inscriptions, turning each work into a meaningful gift.

9. Vietnam Old Propaganda Posters

Many tourists have been showing interests to buy Vietnam’s propaganda posters as a piece of souvenirs, in cities across Vietnam, they are stand out with bold colors, dynamic imagery, and powerful slogans. More than just decoration, they played a crucial role in unifying the nation, inspiring patriotism, and spreading key political messages. We love them.

These meaningful artworks often feature soldiers, workers, and farmers—symbols of strength and resilience—alongside Communist Party emblems. Revolutionary slogans promoting national unity and liberation add to their impact, making them both historical artifacts and unique pieces of art.

For those looking to buy propaganda posters, top locations include the Hanoi Old Quarter (around the old cathedral), Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, and various art galleries or museums in both cities. Prices vary widely, with reproductions available for just a few dollars.

10. Bánh chè lam (Sweet made with rice flour)

This traditional Vietnamese sweet, Bánh chè lam, is often enjoyed with tea. Made from glutinous rice flour, malt, ginger, roasted peanuts, and bile sugar, it offers a chewy, slightly sticky texture with a balance of sweetness and warmth from the ginger. The roasted peanuts add a nutty, satisfying crunch. This is also often buy as a souvenir from northern Vietnam.

It is believed to have originated from Thanh Xa Village, near Hanoi. Over time, it has become a popular traditional treat, often prepared during holidays and offered in Buddhist rituals.

Shops in old quarter of Hanoi, are selling a pack of 450 gram with 50-70k VND (USD2-3). Once buy, you can keep in a dry and cool temperature for up to one month.

11. Chopsticks

Chopsticks, may not be originated in Vietnam, however, we use them in pretty much any restaurant, locals rarely use spoon and specially fork and if you are not familiar with using chopstick, you may use it with trouble. However, returning home with a set of chopsticks souvenir, which is very affordable (USD2 max), and meaningful, would be a way to relive your culinary experiences. Every time you use them, you’ll be reminded of the steaming bowls of noodle soup and other local dishes in Vietnam.

12. Minority Textiles from Sapa

For travelers exploring Vietnam, especially the northern regions like Sapa and Ha Giang, tribal textiles would be one-of-a-kind souvenir. These handcrafted fabrics showcase the rich artistry of ethnic minority communities, who have preserved their weaving traditions for generations. From intricate embroidery to vibrant patterns, each piece tells a story of cultural heritage and skilled craftsmanship.

Unlike mass-produced fabrics, these textiles are meticulously stitched using traditional techniques, making them a rare find for visitors, particularly those from the West. Purchasing authentic pieces from reputable sellers not only ensures quality but also supports local artisans, helping to sustain their craft and way of life. Prices typically start at VND200.000 (USD8).

13. Coconut Candy: A souvenir from Vietnam’s Mekong

Known as “Kẹo Dừa”, coconut candy is a very popular cube shaped candy originates from the Mekong Delta, where lush coconut groves provide the main ingredient. Made from coconut milk and malt, this traditional Vietnamese candy could be a small souvenir reminding you a sweet taste of Mekong.

You can find coconut candy in local markets, souvenir shops, and supermarkets across Vietnam. However, the best and most fresh, only available at Mekong Delta, specially in Ben Tre where visitors tour the Mekong coconut waterways. Prices vary depending on the brand, packaging, and location, but a 200-gram pack typically costs from VND50.000 (USD 2)

14. Local wine (Rice, Corn): Traditional Vietnam Souvenir

More than just a drink, Vietnamese rice wine is one side of any communal gathering, wedding, festivals & friendly meeting after work. It’s actually part of the local culture.

You can find Vietnamese rice wine to get back home a booze souvenir in local markets, rural villages, and specialty liquor shops across the country, or, you can get a bottle of 500ml, 1 liter or more on departure at International airports across Vietnam. Each region offers its own unique twist, making it a fascinating souvenir for those looking to bring home a taste of Vietnam. Ha Giang rice wine is famous for being an authentic among the other types.

15. Fish sauce: A Must-Have Vietnam Souvenir for cooking

It’s been an ingredient in Vietnamese cuisine for thousands of years, fish sauce is more than just a taste—it’s a cornerstone of the country’s rich culinary background. This flavorful liquid is crafted through a meticulous fermentation process, where fish and salt are aged for months or even years, developing a deep amber hue and an intensely savory taste.

You’ll find Vietnamese fish sauce in local markets, supermarkets, and specially in Phu Quoc island, Phan Thiet, and Nha Trang, where some of the finest varieties originate. Prices are around 30-50k VND (USD1.5 to 2).

16. Halong Bay Pearls – Jewelry Souvenir from Vietnam

Halong Bay is not just famous for its breathtaking limestone karsts and emerald waters—it’s also a hub for pearl farming. In areas like Tùng Sâu Bay and Bai Tu Long Bay, skilled artisans cultivate oysters, carefully nurturing them until they produce high-quality pearls with stunning natural colors. These pearls, known for their luster and durability, make for an elegant and timeless gift from Vietnam.

You can find Halong Bay pearls in local jewelry boutiques, pearl farms, and souvenir shops, with prices varying based on size, quality, and type. Freshwater pearls tend to be more affordable, starting at $20 to $50, while high-grade saltwater pearls, often set in silver or gold, can cost several hundred to thousands of dollars. Whether as a souvenir or a meaningful gift, a Vietnamese pearl is a lasting reminder of your journey through this breathtaking region.

17. Dong Ho paintings: An artwork Vietnam souvenirs

Originating from Dong Ho Village in northern Vietnam, Dong Ho paintings introduces with traditional Vietnamese artworks that make for unique gifts and souvenir. These handcrafted pieces beautifully depict daily rural life, folklore, and historical legends, adding a vibrant touch of Vietnamese culture to any space.

In the past, families in the Red River Delta decorated their homes with Dong Ho paintings during Tet (Lunar New Year), believing they would bring happiness and prosperity for the year ahead.
Over generations, these folk paintings have remained deeply embedded in Vietnamese culture, evolving beyond their traditional role. Today, their influence extends into modern art, sculpture, fashion, and pottery, keeping this artistic heritage alive in fresh and innovative ways.

18. Vietnamese Green Tea

If you’re looking for a Vietnam souvenir that is widely popular among locals, then, Vietnamese green tea is what you’ll need to buy. Widely enjoyed for its mild, grassy, and slightly bitter flavor, is not only a popular tear but also a source of high antioxidants that offer potential health benefits.

Grown in various regions, the finest varieties come from Tan Cuong Village in Thai Nguyen Province, known for being a high-quality tea. Packed with antioxidants, green tea helps combat free radicals and protect cells from damage, while also aiding digestion and enhancing mental alertness, making it both a refreshing and beneficial drink in daily life. A pack of 500gram often cost 150.000 VND (USD6).

19. A pack of dried fruit Vietnam souvenir

Those yummy tropical fruits comes packed as a dried-fruit available in different taste. Even though it is a fruit, but it’s been packed and ready to add it to your handbag and take it home as a Vietnamese souvenir. These salted dried fruits offer a delicious and unique taste, combining a crunchy taste just like chips that is widely available at all supermarkets across Vietnam. A pack of 100gram often cost not more than 50.00 VND (USD2).

20. Custom-made Shoes and Bags: An affordable souvenir from Hoi An, Vietnam

Did you know you can custom made shoes, bags sandals and any leather items in Hoi An with at least 1/3 of what you pay in west? If you are looking for an affordable, high-quality, custom made shoes and bags, Hoi An is a place to go for, offering high-quality leather products at a fraction of Western prices; Once in Hoi An, make sure to check the leather quality and stitching, allow time for fittings, and expect prices to range from 500,000 (USD25) making these personalized items a stylish and budget-friendly Vietnamese souvenir.

Must-Have Vietnam Souvenirs: Top Things to Buy

Vietnam offers unique shopping opportunities, everything from Ao Dai and coffee beans to traditional lacquerware and Buddhist artifacts, making it a great and affordable place to buy souvenir taking back home. Whether hunting for affordable souvenirs or splurging on famous Vietnamese things to buy, like custom-made shoes and bags, the country’s markets and artisan shop cater to every style and budget. Make sure to check our private luxury Vietnam tours for your coming trip.