Bringing Home a Piece of Hanoi – Our Guide to Buying Souvenirs in Hanoi
Vietnam doesn’t just bring about new and fascinating experiences, but also brings unforgettable memories. This article is about how you can bring home a piece of Vietnam with just a few dollars.
Hanoi offers meaningful souvenirs rooted in craftsmanship, culture, and modern creativity.
Top picks include lacquerware, silk, ceramics, local coffee, spices, snacks, and handcrafted décor.
Shop at trusted boutiques, craft villages, and reputable brand stores to ensure authentic quality and fair pricing.
Hanoi is one of Vietnam’s most culturally rich destinations, and its souvenirs reflect that diversity in terms of heritage and
The best souvenirs from Hanoi are the ones that reflect Vietnamese culture and craftsmanship—such as lacquerware, silk products, ceramics, artisanal fashion, roasted coffee, tea, spices, and handmade décor. For guaranteed authenticity, shop at curated boutiques, craft villages like Bát Tràng or Vạn Phúc, and reputable lifestyle stores instead of tourist-oriented stalls.
What’s inside a Souvenir from Hanoi?
A good souvenir is more than an object; it’s a story. Authenticity matters because handmade items from true craft villages carry identity and skill passed down through generations. Cultural meaning gives souvenirs a deeper emotional value, especially when they represent local traditions or represent iconic Vietnamese motifs. Practicality is also important—souvenirs should be durable, packable, and something you can actually use or display at home.
The Best Pieces of Souvenirs to Buy in Hanoi?
Out of a million things you can buy in Hanoi, these are the few things that we reccon you should buy not only for their cultural value, but also for the sake of your convenience and usage
Lacquerware
Vietnamese lacquer art is one of the country’s most iconic crafts, and Hanoi offers everything from lacquer trays and decorative bowls to jewelry boxes and wall pieces. High-quality lacquerware has smooth, even layers, deep color, and fine detailing that showcases the artisan’s skill.
Silk & Fashion Items
Hanoi is an excellent place to buy silk scarves, ties, áo dài fabrics, and handwoven accessories. Van Phuc silk village remains a major source of fine Vietnamese silk, while boutique fashion stores in the Old Quarter offer modern clothing made from natural materials.
Ceramics
Bát Tràng village is famous for its pottery, offering everything from minimalist tableware to ornate vases. These pieces make excellent gifts thanks to their durability and striking designs, and many shops allow you to see the production process firsthand.
Coffee & Tea
Vietnam is one of the world’s top coffee producers, so bringing home roasted beans, drip filters, or a signature blend like robusta can’t go wrong. Lotus tea, cinnamon tea, and herbal infusions are also popular choices for travelers who prefer lighter souvenirs.
Spices & Snacks
If you prefer something consumable, consider cinnamon sticks, pepper, dried fruits, cashews, and traditional snacks. These items are easy to pack and carry the taste of Vietnam wherever you go.
Handicrafts
Bamboo baskets, rattan décor, embroidered textiles, postcards, and handmade ornaments are widely available. These items highlight local craft skills and make thoughtful, budget-friendly gifts.
Art Prints, Paintings & Home Decor
Hanoi has a thriving art scene, offering watercolor paintings, old-Hanoi sketches, lacquer mini-paintings, and contemporary pieces. Boutique galleries and museum shops often carry curated selections that preserve cultural accuracy.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in Hanoi
Old Quarter Boutiques
The Old Quarter offers curated gift shops and independent design studios where you can find modern Vietnamese crafts, home décor, and artisanal fashion. These shops typically offer better quality and clearer pricing than tourist stalls.
Craft Villages
If you want an authentic experience, visit Bát Tràng for ceramics, Vạn Phúc for silk weaving, and Chương Mỹ for bamboo and rattan craftmaking. These villages allow you to see artisans at work and purchase directly from the makers.
Lifestyle & Art Stores
Hanoi’s lifestyle brands offer refined lacquerware, home décor, and contemporary Vietnamese craftsmanship. The quality is generally higher, and selections are curated for modern interiors.
Local Markets
Markets such as Đồng Xuân or weekend night markets offer a wide variety of affordable items. While the prices are attractive, travelers should check quality carefully and avoid mass-produced pieces sold at inflated prices.
Museum Shops
Museum gift shops provide culturally accurate souvenirs, art prints, books, and traditional crafts sourced from trusted artisans. These are ideal for travelers who want culturally meaningful keepsakes.
Craftsmanship is key—smooth lacquer layers, clean stitches, and even ceramic glazing are strong indicators of quality. Comparing prices between shops helps you avoid overpaying, especially in areas with heavy tourist traffic. Lastly, if you plan to bring home fragile items, request proper wrapping and keep airline regulations in mind.
Bringing home a souvenir from Hanoi is a way to carry a piece of Vietnam’s culture with you. The city offers a rich blend of traditional crafts, modern design, and flavorful specialties that make shopping both meaningful and enjoyable. By choosing authentic, well-crafted items from reputable shops or craft villages, you bring home not just an object but the story and artistry behind it.
