Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, is a shopper’s paradise. From bustling markets to elegant boutiques, Hanoi has something for every taste and budget. Shopping in Hanoi is about more than just finding souvenirs – it offers a chance to experience Vietnamese culture and interact with friendly locals. This article will guide you through the must-buy souvenirs and gifts to take home from Hanoi, as well as where to shop and how to bargain like a local. By the end, you’ll be an expert at shopping in Hanoi!
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Top Souvenirs to Buy in Hanoi
Hanoi offers a wide variety of unique Vietnamese souvenirs and gifts to choose from. Here are some of the best things to buy:
Silk
Vietnam is renowned for its fine silk, produced from the cocoons of mulberry silkworms. Hanoi is a great place to buy high-quality silk items like scarves, shirts, dresses, robes, and pillowcases. The Old Quarter is full of silk shops, and you can find silk in Dong Xuan market too. Prices vary depending on the quality – expect to pay around $20-50 for a silk scarf.
Ceramics
Vietnamese ceramics, especially blue and white porcelain, are highly prized for their quality and traditional designs. In Hanoi, you can find beautiful ceramic vases, tea sets, dinnerware, figurines, and decorative tiles. Ceramic street signs make a nice souvenir too. For the best selection, head to Bat Trang Ceramic Village just outside Hanoi.
Lacquerware
Vietnam’s unique lacquerware uses natural lacquer resin to create stunning glossy finishes on wooden items. In Hanoi, you can find exquisite lacquer boxes, trays, bowls, chopstick sets, jewelry boxes, and more. For the highest quality lacquerware, check out shops on Hang Gai street in the Old Quarter. Expect to pay $50+ for intricate lacquerware items.
Embroidery
Beautiful Vietnamese embroidery has a long history and makes a wonderful keepsake. Look for embroidered silk and cotton items like handbags, clothing, wall hangings, table linens, and pillowcases. Shops in the Old Quarter have plenty of embroidery for sale. Prices vary widely based on the quality and detail.
Coffee
Vietnam is one of the world’s largest coffee producers. Bring home premium Vietnamese coffee from Trung Nguyen, Oriberry, and other top local brands. You can also find coffee in beautiful cans and gift baskets in Hanoi shops. A one pound bag of coffee makes a nice gift and costs around $15.
Tea
Vietnam produces incredibly flavorful green, black, and oolong teas. In Hanoi, look for luxury tea brands like Shan Tuyet and Tie Guanyin, which come in beautiful packaging. Herbal remedies, like lemongrass tea, also make good gifts. Expect to pay $10-20 for high-end tea gifts.
Food Specialties
Bring back the flavors of Vietnam by purchasing tea, coffee, spices, concentrated pho broth, shrimp chips, candied fruit, nuts, and other edible souvenirs. These foodie treats can often be found in nice gift baskets or packaging. Keep in mind that certain food products may be prohibited from being brought back in your home country.
Where to Shop in Hanoi?
Hanoi offers countless places to shop for unique souvenirs, gifts, clothing, and more. Here are some of the best shopping areas to check out:
The Old Quarter
This historic neighborhood is jam-packed with shops selling everything from souvenirs to silks. Browse Hang Gai, Hang Bac, and Hang Dao streets for silk clothing, embroidery, and lacquerware. The area is best explored on foot.
Dong Xuan Market
The vast Dong Xuan Market in the Old Quarter has over 1,000 stalls selling souvenirs, clothing, home goods, food, and more. It’s easy to spend hours exploring the market’s maze-like alleys. Go early to avoid massive crowds.
Hoan Kiem Lake
The scenic Hoan Kiem Lake is surrounded by souvenir stalls, art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. Browse paintings, ceramics, clothing and more. Go in the morning to beat the crowds.
Hanoi Weekend Night Market
From Friday-Sunday, a lively night market pops up around Hoan Kiem Lake selling handicrafts, clothing, art, and street food. It gets very crowded, so go early to avoid the masses.
Ba Dinh Square
The shops surrounding Ba Dinh Square near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum sell souvenirs, coffee, propaganda artwork and more. Browse the stalls after visiting the mausoleum.
Hanoi Art Market
Local artists and art students sell original paintings, prints, photography, ceramics, and more at this small weekend market. It’s a great place to find unique artistic souvenirs.
Shopping Tips & Etiquette in Hanoi
Keep these shopping tips in mind to master shopping like a local in Hanoi’s markets and shops:
- Prices are often not fixed – bargaining is expected, especially at markets and street stalls. Offer 30-50% below the asking price.
- When buying souvenirs, check for any damage or flaws. Lacquerware and ceramics may have small imperfections.
-Pay in Vietnamese Dong rather than US dollars to get better deals. Try to have small bills to pay exact amounts.
-Avoid crowded times – early morning and weekdays are best for markets like Dong Xuan.
-Dress modestly when visiting temples and pagodas – cover shoulders and knees.
-Smile, be polite, but firm when bargaining. It’s a friendly game, not a heated argument.
-For major purchases, check that items can be shipped internationally. Ask vendors about international shipping.
Shopping for Gifts in Hanoi
Shopping for loved ones back home? Here are some great Hanoi souvenir gift ideas:
Gifts for Women
- Silk scarves, robes, and dresses
- Embroidered handbags and purses
- Lacquered jewelry boxes
- Ceramic tea sets and tableware
- Essential oil perfumes
Gifts for Men
- Vietnamese coffee beans and tea
- Ceramic beer mugs
- Propaganda art pieces and prints
- Quality men’s ao dai (traditional shirts)
- Vintage war souvenirs like compasses and Zippo lighters
Gifts for Foodies
- Vietnamese spice sets
- High-end pho noodle kits
- Tropical dried fruits
- Tea and coffee gift baskets
- Flavored liquors like snake wine
Home Décor Gifts
- Lacquered trays and bowls
- Serving chopsticks and spoons
- Ceramic vases and tableware
- Hand-embroidered pillows and linens
- Propaganda posters and prints
Eco-Friendly Gifts
- Handmade jute and cotton bags
- Recycled paper and cardboard crafts
- Upcycled cutlery and homeware
- Sustainably harvested foods like coffee and spices
- Natural soaps, cosmetics, and skincare
No matter who you’re shopping for, Hanoi offers amazing one-of-a-kind gifts made by skilled local artisans. Support local businesses and take a piece of Vietnam back home with you!
Conclusion
Shopping in Hanoi is an incredible cultural experience. From bustling markets to family-run shops, Hanoi provides endless opportunities to find unique souvenirs, high-quality gifts, and interaction with friendly locals. Silk, embroidery, ceramics, coffee, and tea are just a taste of the treasures you can uncover in Hanoi’s shopping spots. Wander the Old Quarter, bargain at Dong Xuan Market, and explore hidden shops around Hoan Kiem Lake. With this guide on what to buy and where to shop in hand, you’re guaranteed to return from Hanoi with amazing gifts, beautiful souvenirs, and wonderful memories. The thrill of discovering that perfect item will make shopping in Hanoi an unforgettable part of your Vietnam experience.