Curious about the best things to bring back from Vietnam as gifts or souvenirs? This article is your passport to discovering the best souvenirs Vietnam has to offer. Get ready to uncover the perfect mementos that will leave you longing for more!
Table of Contents
1. Traditional Vietnamese Food
Vietnam’s cuisine is full of different of flavors, and what’s a better way to bring back the memories than through your taste buds?
Spices and Seasonings: Spice up your life with Vietnamese flavors! Score some star anise, cinnamon, and lemongrass to add that Vietnamese twist to your meals.
Fish sauce: Nước mắm, the holy grail of Vietnamese cuisine, is a must for your pantry. Phu Quoc is known for their fish sauces which is more flavorful and potent than the ones available in supermarkets in North America and Europe, so definitely be on the look out for any of the following brands:
- Nước mắm Thanh Hà (Premium fish sauce brand and my personal favorite to gift!)
- Nước mắm Khải Hoàn Phú Quốc (One of the oldest fish sauce brands, over 100 years)
Noodles and Rice products: Discover the magic of Vietnamese grains. Jasmine rice is a staple, and rice paper wraps are your canvas for DIY spring rolls. And of course, you can’t forget those slurp-worthy rice noodles (pho addicts, unite!).
Condiments and Sauces: Elevate your culinary game with Vietnamese condiments. Hoisin sauce, and chili paste are your flavor-packed sidekicks for any dish you whip up. There are a lot of vegetarian options for condiments and sauces like fish sauce.
- Vegetarian fish sauce made from pineapple:
Snacks and Treats: Craving something sweet? Vietnamese snacks have you covered. Here are some of my top pics for yummy snacks and treats you can look for at grocery stores, markets, or convenience stores:
- Baked coconut crackers (Bánh dừa nướng) – These are my favorite snacks that are a specialty of the Quang Nam province (where Hoi An is). They’re perfectly crispy and not too sweet with a strong coconut flavor. You can find them in Hoi An at local markets and stores as well as at airports. Make sure to get this specific brand in the green packaging. I’ve tried another brand and the cracker was much thicker and harder to eat.
- Bánh pía sầu riêng: I’m not sure if there’s a direct English translation for this sweet snack but it’s like a small durian mooncake. This durian version is a specialty of Sóc Trăng. The dough is very light and flakey with many thin layers made of flour and there’s a thicker layer on the outside where you often see the bakery stamp their name with red dye.
Where to buy it? In Ho Chi Minh City, you can get it in District 1 at this shop: Bánh Pía Sóc Trăng – Đặc Sản Hương Việt which is dedicated to specialty snacks and items from Sóc Trăng.
- Chocolate – While Vietnam may not be particularly famous for chocolate, there’s a popular artisanal chocolate company called Maison Marou that focuses on making chocolate from Vietnamese cacao beans. They’ve got beautifully wrapped chocolates and sets that make perfect gifts. You can find their store locations in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi (some convenience stores also sell their single chocolate bars!)
Tips for Food Souvenir Shopping:
- Always check the customs regulations for bringing food items back home. Nobody wants their goodies confiscated at the border!
- Opt for well-sealed or packaged items to avoid spills and keep your backpack fresh.
- If you’ve got dietary restrictions or allergies, be sure to ask about ingredients and allergens when scouting for culinary souvenirs.
Recommended Shops for Food Souvenir Shopping:
- For premium products, check out Annam Gourmet locations around Ho Chi Minh City
- Grocery store chains (“siêu thị“): BigC, MegaMart, Coop Mart, Winmart
- Convenience stores: Circle K, FamilyMart, GS25, 7-Eleven, Ministop
- Shopping Malls: If there’s a shopping mall in the city you’re visiting, there’s usuallya floor dedicated to food and groceries where you can find local food souvenirs
2. Clothing
Vietnam is has a long history of textile and clothing manufacturing, which has resulted in a skilled and experienced workforce. Many people in Vietnam have been involved in the garment industry for generations, passing down their knowledge and expertise. You can find a lot of great clothing options in Vietnam!
Ao Dai (Vietnamese Dress): The traditional ones are beautiful pieces of clothing that are more figure-hugging compared to some casual or modern versions.
Custom and tailored clothing: In particular, Hoi An has become a very popular destination for tourists to get custom-made clothing. When you visit one of these shops, they usually have a lookbook where you can pick out what you want made and then you can select the fabric. Also tons and tons of custom-made suit options for men. The turnaround time is fairly quick but if you’re traveling to another place in Vietnam, they can get it shipped to you. Some stores I recommend checking out in Hoi An are:
Pyjamas: You may notice that Vietnamese women are often wearing what looks like pyjama sets. These sets are often made of very light fabrics such as cotton or silk and are very comfy to wear. My grandma used to buy me silk sets all the time when I was a kid. You can find them at any market such as Ben Thanh Market.
Local brands: If you’re looking to buy clothing from local Vietnamese brands, there are many coming from young designers and entrepreneurs. Here are a few places to check out:
- The New Playground: An underground mall with small shops from local brands, mainly streetwear.
- 42 Tôn Thất Thiệp Building: If you go upstairs, there’s a few small clothing shops such as HAVANA, hebevintage, and more.
- Môi Điên
- Lillinn Shopping Station
- Libe Clothing Shop
- Nosbyn
- Mignonne
Designer brands (as seen on celebrities such as Lisa from BLACKPINK, Beyonce, and more):
3. Vietnamese Coffee
Coffee Beans: Let’s talk Vietnamese coffee beans! Vietnam is renowned for its high-quality coffee beans. Delve into the world of robusta and arabica, and learn why local roasters are the true unsung heroes of Vietnam’s coffee scene.
Vietnamese Coffee Filters (Phin): It’s not just about the coffee; it’s about the method. Uncover the secret to brewing the perfect cup of ‘Ca Phe Sua Da’ (iced coffee with condensed milk) using the iconic Vietnamese coffee filter, known as the ‘phin.’
Traditional Coffee Sets: Take home a piece of Vietnam’s coffee culture with a traditional coffee set. These beautifully designed sets include a ‘phin,’ a glass for your brew, and a container for condensed milk. The artistry in every set is as rich as the coffee it holds.
4. Vietnamese Lanterns
Hoi An’s Lanterns: Here, lanterns come alive in various shapes, sizes, and colors, captivating travelers and locals alike with their timeless beauty. Vietnamese lanterns are like vibrant tapestries that tell stories of nature, folklore, and tradition. Uncover the intricate patterns and the symbolism behind each color, and see how these lanterns are far more than just decorative items. Lanterns aren’t just for show; they’re also practical and portable. Foldable designs make them easy to carry and pack, making them the perfect souvenir to brighten your home or wherever your nomadic adventures take you.
Silk Lanterns: Discover the allure of silk lanterns, where delicate fabric is intricately adorned with traditional motifs. These lanterns are more than just sources of light; they’re pieces of art that evoke the charm of Vietnam’s rich culture.
Tips for Lantern Souvenir Shopping:
- Local Markets: Seek out local markets to find authentic lanterns and support local artisans. These markets are treasure troves for unique, handcrafted lanterns.
- Quality and Craftsmanship: Pay close attention to the quality and craftsmanship of each lantern. Quality materials and skilled handiwork are the hallmarks of an excellent lantern.
- Lighting Methods: Understand the different ways you can light up your lanterns, whether through candles, LED lights, or battery-powered bulbs. Choose what suits your travel style and practicality.
5. Ceramics and Pottery in Vietnam:
Bat Trang’s Creative Hub: The Bat Trang village is an artisan’s haven near Hanoi. Here, you’ll find an array of ceramics, from plates and bowls to vases and figurines, all adorned with intricate hand-painted designs. Bat Trang’s ceramics are more than just art; they’re an embodiment of Vietnam’s artistic heritage.
Terracotta Treasures: Step into the world of terracotta, where unglazed pottery comes to life. Terracotta pots, figurines, and sculptures often depict scenes from daily life, folklore, or nature. Each piece tells a unique story and holds the rustic charm of Vietnam.
Celadon Ceramics: Uncover the secrets of celadon ceramics, known for their pale green or blue-green glaze. These elegant dishes, tea sets, and vases are inspired by ancient Chinese techniques but have found their unique Vietnamese identity.
Hand-Thrown Pottery: Some regions in Vietnam still produce traditional hand-thrown pottery using age-old techniques. These pieces boast a rustic and artisanal charm, perfect for those who appreciate the authenticity of handmade crafts.
Tips for Ceramic Souvenir Shopping
- Craftsmanship Matters: Pay close attention to the craftsmanship and quality of ceramics. Look for pieces that exhibit even glazing, intricate designs, and a polished finish.
- Verify Authenticity: When purchasing higher-end pieces, look for items signed by the artist or those accompanied by certificates of authenticity to ensure you’re getting a genuine work of art.
- Transport Considerations: Keep in mind the size and weight of the ceramics when purchasing, as they may affect your ability to transport them safely.
