10+ Unique Hanoi Souvenirs to Bring Home

What to buy in Hanoi as a souvenir to bring home? Read this article to find the original Hanoi souvenirs which are much unique and meaningful.

Unfortunately, every trip has an end, but fortunately, you can take home souvenirs from Vietnam to have a memory of your trip to Vietnam forever. You can buy as a souvenir of Vietnam the famous conical hat, an amulet that is sold in the temples, traditional clothes like the Ao Dai, cards or even coffee or tea for example. In this article, I will recommend some unique Hanoi souvenirs, more specifically, that you can bring back during your stay in Vietnam.

1. Top souvenirs to buy in Hanoi

1.1. Vietnamese Silk & Ao Dai

Vietnamese silk is a stunning and luxurious fabric, renowned for its exceptional quality and smooth texture. As one of Hanoi's most cherished souvenirs, these exquisite products make for a truly special gift.

The tradition of silk weaving in Vietnam dates back to the 9th century, with the ancient techniques passed down through generations of skilled artisans. Today, you can still find beautiful silk items like scarves, accessories, and the iconic Ao Dai, meticulously crafted in traditional villages just outside the city. A silk scarf is a favorite souvenir, known for its vibrant colors and delicate feel, which is a perfect memento of your trip.

Products from silk and brocade are popular souvenirs in Hanoi.

Where to buy silk souvenirs in Hanoi:

When you're ready to find that perfect silk souvenir, here are the top places to visit, from specialty boutiques to a traditional craft village.

• Tan My Design (61 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem): A renowned, long-standing shop offering a wide range of high-quality silk products, from scarves and clothing to home decor.
• Silky Vietnam (5 Hang Bong Street, Hoan Kiem and 78 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem): With two convenient locations in the Old Quarter, this shop is a popular choice for tourists seeking a variety of silk items at reasonable prices.
• Van Phuc Silk Village, Ha Dong: If you have time for a short trip outside the city center, this is the ultimate destination for an authentic experience.

1.2. Bat Trang Ceramics & Pottery

When looking for authentic Vietnamese souvenirs, Hanoi ceramics are a must-buy. The city is a treasure trove of beautiful pottery, especially at the famous Bat Trang Ceramic Village, located just a short trip from the capital. Here, you'll discover a stunning array of handcrafted items, from intricately designed vases and ornate tea sets to charming ceramic figurines. These functional and decorative pieces are a perfect way to bring a touch of Vietnam's rich cultural heritage into your home or as a meaningful gift for loved ones.

Ceramics is among the best things to buy in Hanoi as a souvenir

Where to find the best ceramics in Hanoi:

• Bat Trang Ceramic Village (Bat Trang, Hanoi): The most famous place for traditional Vietnamese pottery. This village offers a full experience where you can browse workshops, buy from local artisans, and even try making your own pottery.
• Minh Long Ceramics: Known for high-quality, elegant ceramic products. You can find their store at 106 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Ba Dinh.
• Creative Pottery Workshop (Xuong Gom Sang Tao): A great option for a hands-on experience, located at 200 Tran Dai Nghia, Hai Ba Trung. Perfect for those who want a unique, self-made souvenir.

1.3. Vietnamese Lacquerware

A must-buy souvenir in Hanoi for art lovers, Vietnamese lacquerware is a stunning art form that blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Each piece is a testament to the skill of local artisans. These distinctive Hanoi souvenirs often feature intricate patterns and vibrant colors, ranging from beautifully painted panels and elegant bowls to stylish boxes. Owning a piece of Hanoi lacquerware is bringing home an invaluable decorative item.

One of the best Hanoi souvenirs is lacquerware.

Where to buy lacquerware souvenir in Hanoi:

• Ha Thai traditional lacquer village (Thuong Tin, Hanoi)
• Tan My Design (61 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem)

1.4. Handicraft Paper Lamps

In Hanoi, the craftsmanship surrounding paper extends to the creation of exquisite paper lamps, which blend artistry and functionality to illuminate spaces with charm. These handmade lamps are not only visually stunning but also incredibly practical for travelers - they are lightweight, foldable, and easy to transport back home. With a wide variety of designs available, you can find a lamp that perfectly matches your personal style. Prices for these unique gifts typically range from 500,000 VND to 1,300,000 VND, depending on size and intricate design.

Where to buy paper lamps in Hanoi:

• Fox Design, no. 40, village 9, Thach That, Hanoi
• Hang Ma Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

1.5. Vietnamese Hand Embroidery

Hand embroidery has long been regarded as a symbol of royalty throughout the various dynasties in Vietnam, so it is one of the most Hanoi souvenirs tourists often opt for. Some villages have managed to preserve this art form through time, using traditional techniques to create remarkable pieces that showcase intricate craftsmanship. The villages are located in the Thuong Tin district. What tourists like most are embroidered pictures, which serve as unique and beautiful keepsakes. Prices for these unique gifts vary widely, ranging from 800,000 to 3,350,000 VND depending on the size and complexity of the design.

Recommended embroidery store in Hanoi:

• Ha Son Embroidery: Located on the 2nd floor at 290 Pho Hue Street, Ha Son Embroidery is a highly recommended store for authentic, high-quality embroidered products. This is a great place to see a wide selection of stunning pieces and find a perfect Hanoi souvenir

1.6. Dong Ho Folk Paintings

Dong Ho paintings are a traditional Vietnamese art form that illustrates daily life scenes, folklore, and cultural heritage, using "do" paper with vibrant natural colors. These paintings serve as a stunning representation of Vietnam's artistic legacy. Tourists seeking authentic Hanoi souvenirs will find that Dong Ho paintings make for thoughtful gifts or charming home decor, adding a touch of Vietnamese culture to their collections. Purchasing these artworks not only supports local artisans but also helps preserve this nearly lost craft for future generations. 

Where to buy Dong Ho paintings in Hanoi:

• Dong Ho Folk Art Shop (1007 Giai Phong, Hoang Mai, Hanoi)
• Dong Ho Paintings for Sale (19 Lane 179, Hoang Hoa Tham street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi)
• Tranh Dan Gian Dong Ho (39 Hoang Dao Thanh street, Thanh Xuan, Hanoi)

1.7. Bamboo and rattan products

Items made from bamboo and rattan are also popular souvenirs in Hanoi. These traditional crafts showcase the incredible skill of local artisans. From elegant handbags to intricate baskets and bowls, these products are lightweight, durable, and perfect for adding a natural, rustic charm to any home. They are a beautiful reflection of Vietnam's long-standing connection to its natural resources.

Best place to buy bamboo products in Hanoi:

• Phu Vinh Village: this is a famous village specializing in bamboo and rattan products.
• Craft Link: A reputable store at 41 Van Mieu, Hoan Kiem, which supports local artisans by selling their traditional handicraft products.

1.8. Jade and Traditional Jewelry

Among the most exquisite and meaningful Hanoi souvenirs, jade jewelry is a quintessential choice. As a symbolic gemstone believed to bring good fortune, Vietnamese jade is masterfully crafted into stunning bracelets, necklaces, and rings. When shopping for these timeless pieces, it's crucial to visit a reputable store to ensure authenticity. A genuine jade bracelet, for example, typically starts at around 900,000 VND. Choosing a piece of jade jewelry is more than just a purchase, it's an opportunity to take home a meaningful memento and support the skilled local craftsmanship that defines Vietnam's cultural heritage.

Best place to buy jewelry in Hanoi:

• Hang Bac Street (Jewelry Street): Located in the heart of the Old Quarter in Hoan Kiem, Hang Bac Street has been the traditional hub for silver and gold craftsmanship for centuries. This is the ideal place to browse a wide variety of jewelry, from simple silver pieces to intricate jade and gemstone designs.

1.9. Non La (Vietnamese Conical Hat)

Vietnamese Non La (Conical hat) is undeniably one of the most iconic souvenirs from Hanoi. This traditional piece of Vietnamese headwear symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of both the city and the nation as a whole. Beyond its graceful design and cultural significance, the Non La is also incredibly practical—it provides excellent protection from both the sun and rain. Lightweight and elegant, it's a distinctive and desirable keepsake that every tourist should consider bringing home.

Where to buy a Non La in Hanoi:

• Dong Xuan Market: This bustling market is a great place to find affordable hats.
• Hang Dao Street, Hanoi Old Quarter

1.10. Vietnamese Tea

Known for its rich, fragrant flavors, Vietnamese tea is a wonderful gift. While tea is grown across the country, lotus tea holds a special place in Hanoi. This exquisite tea is made by infusing green tea leaves with the delicate scent of lotus flowers, creating a truly unique and aromatic brew. A box of lotus tea is not just a drink; it's a fragrant piece of Hanoi's culture that you can share with others.

1.11. Vietnamese Coffee

For coffee lovers, Vietnamese coffee is a must-buy. Famous for its bold and strong flavor, especially the Robusta variety, it's a taste you won't forget. While the coffee beans are grown in the Central Highlands, Hanoi is home to countless specialty shops that roast and sell a wide variety of high-quality beans and unique blends. These stores are the perfect place to pick up a bag of Vietnamese coffee as a flavorful souvenir from Hanoi.

1.12. Vietnamese Chocolate

While coffee and tea are well-known, Vietnamese chocolate is a rising star in the culinary world and an excellent edible souvenir, with some famous chocolate stores in Hanoi. Made from high-quality cacao beans grown in the Mekong Delta and Central Highlands, this chocolate is renowned for its rich, complex flavor profile. Brands like Marou and Alluvia have gained international acclaim for their single-origin, artisanal products. A bar of Vietnamese chocolate is a sophisticated and delicious gift for anyone with a sweet tooth.

1.13. O Mai - Sweet Dried Fruits

O Mai, or sweet dried fruits, is a distinctive and addictive snack that truly belongs to Hanoi. Made from preserved fruits like plums and apricots, these treats are a perfect blend of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors. Hang Duong Street in the Old Quarter is famously known as the "O Mai Street," where you can find countless shops offering samples and a huge variety of these delicious candies. A bag of O Mai is a fantastic and unique Hanoi souvenir that captures the city's unique culinary heritage.

2. Other places to buy souvenirs in Hanoi?

2.1. Best souvenir shops in Hanoi Old Quarter

You can buy Hanoi souvenirs in the specialized stores of the Old Quarter, where you can find high-quality, authentic items that showcase the city's heritage.

Here are some renowned stores to buy souvenirs in Hanoi:

• Tired City: This store has a lot of branches that you can easily find in the Old Quarter.
• Tanmy Design: 61 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi 
• Collective Memory: 12 Nha Chung Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• aN Store: 8 Ly Dao Thanh, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Mékong Quilts: 2 Hang Ngang, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Craft Link: 41 Van Mieu, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• Indigo Store: 33A Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi
• MAISON MAROU (first 100% Vietnamese chocolate factory): 91A Tho Nhuom Street, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi
• MasterTan: 35 Ly Quoc Su, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi

2.2. Top local markets for authentic souvenirs

When it comes to purchasing souvenirs in Hanoi, exploring local markets is an excellent option that offers a diverse range of affordable gifts. Below are some highly recommended Hanoi markets:

#1. Night market in Hanoi Old Quarter

Night markets are a must during your trip to Vietnam, especially in Hanoi, and you will immediately fall in love with the atmosphere at Hoan Kiem walking street at nightfall. 

The market is open from Friday night to Sunday from about 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. However, it is suggested that you arrive here around 6:00 to 7:00 PM to fully immerse yourself in the market's energetic ambiance.

You can find a large number of delightful items such as intricate figurines, styled clothes, wooden sculptures, fun toys for children, and many others. Besides, bargaining is popular while buying something, so don't hesitate to negotiate the prices if something seems too high. 

Moreover, you can find a lot of local street food, such as meat skewers, fresh fruit juices, "che" (sweet soup - a typical Vietnamese dessert),  and a variety of other Vietnamese delicacies. Try them and you won't be disappointed!

Address: Starting from Hang Dao Street to Dong Xuan Market, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi.

#2. Dong Xuan Indoor Market

Dong Xuan Market is one of the biggest indoor markets in Hanoi, conveniently located adjacent to the bustling Bac Qua - Cau Dong local market. This vibrant marketplace is an ideal destination for both business transactions and affordable shopping.

2.3. Hanoi's famous handicraft villages

If you want something really authentic and original, you should visit small craft villages near Hanoi. It only takes a maximum of one hour to drive out of the capital and discover these unique villages in one or half day. You can see artisans at work and purchase handmade products directly from the source.
Here are some famous Hanoi handicraft villages that you should consider for your visiting plans:

• Bat Trang Village, Gia Lam, Hanoi, for ceramics and pottery
• Van Phuc Silk Village, Ha Dong, Hanoi, for silk
• Phu Vinh Village, Chuong My, Hanoi, for bamboo products
• Ha Thai Village, Thuong Tin, Hanoi, for lacquerware
• Dong Ho Village, Thuan Thanh, Bac Ninh for famous Dong Ho paper paintings

3. Practical tips & FAQs for souvenir shopping in Hanoi

1. Is bargaining common when buying souvenirs in Hanoi?

Yes, bargaining is common in local markets like Dong Xuan Market and the Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market. However, remember to be polite and friendly during the process. Bargaining is not common in modern shopping malls or high-end boutiques.

2. What is the average price range for a souvenir in Hanoi?

The price of a souvenir can vary widely depending on the item and where you buy it. For example, a small ceramic bowl can cost as little as 50,000 VND, while a high-quality silk scarf might range from 200,000 to 500,000 VND. Hand-embroidered paintings or large lacquerware pieces can be much more expensive, sometimes running into millions of VND.

3. What's the best souvenir to buy for a family member or friend?

This depends on their interests! For coffee lovers, a bag of authentic Vietnamese coffee is a perfect choice. For those interested in art and culture, a small Dong Ho painting or a piece of Bat Trang ceramic pottery makes a meaningful gift. A silk scarf or a piece of lacquerware is a classic, elegant option.

4. Can I use a credit card to pay for souvenirs in Hanoi?

Most larger souvenir shops, boutiques, and shopping malls accept credit cards. However, in local markets, street stalls, or smaller family-run shops, cash (Vietnamese Dong) is the preferred and often only method of payment. It's always a good idea to carry some cash with you when you go souvenir shopping.

5. How can I ensure the souvenirs I buy are authentic and not mass-produced?

To find authentic, handcrafted souvenirs, consider buying directly from craft villages like Bat Trang Ceramic Village or Van Phuc Silk Village. Another reliable option is to visit fair trade shops or stores that work directly with local artisans. The article provides a list of specific shops known for their quality and authenticity.

Hanoi is home to various well-known tourist attractions. If you have the intention to buy souvenirs in Hanoi, we hope our information is useful for you. If you have any further related questions and tours around Hanoi, feel free to leave a comment below or contact us directly via email: [email protected].

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See more articles about Hanoi:

• Unmissable Hanoi markets to explore
• Best things to do in Hanoi Old Quarter, Vietnam
• 20 Hanoi restaurants near Hoan Kiem Lake & The Old Quarter
• Top 10 desserts in Hanoi you must try
• When is the best time to visit Hanoi, Vietnam?