Shopping for unique and memorable souvenirs is a must when visiting Ho Chi Minh City. This vibrant city offers a variety of traditional and modern items that capture the essence of Vietnamese culture. Here’s a guide to the top 15 best souvenirs to buy in Ho Chi Minh City, including where to find them and why they make perfect keepsakes or gifts.
1. Coconut Candy
Coconut candy is a delightful treat originating from the Mekong Delta, and it’s a top souvenirs to buy in Ho Chi Minh city among tourists. These candies are made from coconut milk, sugar, and malt syrup, resulting in a chewy, sweet confection that captures the tropical essence of Vietnam.
They come in various flavors, sometimes infused with durian, pandan, or peanuts, adding a unique twist. Packaged in colorful boxes or traditional bamboo baskets, coconut candies are perfect for sharing with friends and family back home.
Where to Buy:
- Saigon Kitsch: 43 Ton That Thiep, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Tombo: 145 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
2. Brocade Bags
Brocade bags are beautiful and best souvenirs to buy Ho Chi Minh that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. Made by ethnic minority groups, these bags feature intricate patterns and vibrant colors, each design telling a story or representing a symbol of the community.
Brocade bags come in various styles, including handbags, clutches, and backpacks, making them versatile accessories. They are often handwoven using traditional techniques passed down through generations, making each piece unique and special.
Where to Buy:
- Saigon Kitsch: 43 Ton That Thiep, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Cincinati: 78A Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
3. Hand-Painted Fans
Hand-painted fans are not only practical for keeping cool but also serve as stunning pieces of art. These fans are crafted from bamboo and silk or paper, then hand-painted with intricate designs depicting Vietnamese landscapes, flowers, or cultural scenes.
The artistry and craftsmanship involved in making these fans make them a cherished souvenir. They are lightweight and easy to pack, making them an ideal gift or a decorative item for your home.
Where to Buy:
- Saigon Eco Craft: 36 and 90 Le Loi, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Cincinati: 78A Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
4. Silk and Fabric
Vietnam is renowned for its high-quality silk, and Ho Chi Minh City offers many options for purchasing this luxurious fabric. Vietnamese silk is known for its smooth texture, vibrant colors, intricate patterns and best souvenirs to buy Ho Chi Minh.
You can buy silk by the meter to create your own custom clothing, or purchase ready-made items like scarves, ties, or traditional Ao Dai. Fabric markets and specialty shops throughout the city provide a wide selection, ensuring you find the perfect piece to suit your taste.
Where to Buy:
- Nhasilk: 82 Hoa Lan, Phu Nhuan District, Ho Chi Minh City
- Saigon Kitsch: 43 Ton That Thiep, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
5. Ho Chi Minh City Coffee Souvenir
Vietnamese coffee is famous worldwide for its rich flavor and unique brewing methods. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can find a variety of coffee blends, including the famous Vietnamese drip coffee and weasel coffee (civet coffee). These coffees are often sold in beautifully designed packages, making them an excellent gift for coffee enthusiasts.
Don’t forget to pick up a traditional Vietnamese coffee filter (phin) to complete the experience and enjoy a taste of Vietnam at home.
Where to Buy:
- Trung Nguyen Legend Café: 80 Nguyen Du, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Phuc Long Coffee & Tea House: 63 Mac Thi Buoi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Read more: Top Vietnamese restaurant in Ho Chi Minh
6. Ceramics
Ceramic products from Ho Chi Minh City are renowned for their craftsmanship and beauty. Vietnamese ceramics often feature traditional designs and motifs, such as lotus flowers, dragons, and scenic landscapes.
You can find a wide range of ceramic items, including bowls, vases, plates, and teapots. These pieces make wonderful decorative items or functional gifts that add a touch of Vietnamese culture to any home.
Where to Buy:
- Amaï: 32 Tran Ngoc Dien, Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
- Authentique Home: 113 Pasteur, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
7. Handcrafted Products – A Top-Pick Saigon Souvenir
Handcrafted items in Ho Chi Minh City reflect the artisanal skills and creativity of local craftsmen. These products include wooden carvings, lacquerware, and woven baskets, each piece showcasing meticulous attention to detail.
Popular items include bamboo trays, rattan coasters, and intricately carved wooden figures. Purchasing these handcrafted souvenirs supports local artisans and preserves traditional Vietnamese crafts.
Where to Buy:
- Saigon Kitsch: 43 Ton That Thiep, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Authentique Home: 113 Pasteur, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
8. Paper Hand Fan
Paper hand fans, adorned with beautiful designs, are lightweight and practical souvenirs. These fans are typically made from bamboo and paper, then hand-painted with intricate patterns featuring flowers, animals, or scenes from Vietnamese folklore.
They are perfect for keeping cool in the tropical heat or as decorative items that add a touch of Vietnamese charm to your home.
Where to Buy:
- Tombo: 145 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Saigon Eco Craft: 36 and 90 Le Loi, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
9. Vietnamese Paintings
Vietnamese paintings make exquisite best souvenirs to buy Ho Chi Minh offering a glimpse into the country’s rich artistic heritage. You can find traditional and contemporary works in various galleries around Ho Chi Minh City.
Common themes include rural landscapes, daily life scenes, and abstract art. These paintings are often created using techniques such as silk painting, lacquer painting, and oil on canvas. A Vietnamese painting can be a striking addition to your home décor and a meaningful reminder of your trip.
Where to Buy:
- Apricot Gallery: 50-52 Mac Thi Buoi, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Cincinati: 78A Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
10. Ho Chi Minh City Food Souvenirs
Bringing back food souvenirs from Ho Chi Minh City is a delicious way to share your travel experiences with others. Top best souvenirs to buy Ho Chi Minh include dried fruits, nuts, and local delicacies like bánh tráng (rice paper), mực khô (dried squid), and various types of traditional Vietnamese candies.
These food items are often packaged in attractive boxes or bags, making them convenient and appealing gifts.
Where to Buy:
- Saigon Kitsch: 43 Ton That Thiep, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Tombo: 145 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
11. Ao Dai for Clothes Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City
The Ao Dai is the traditional Vietnamese dress, known for its elegance and beauty. Made from silk or other high-quality fabrics, the Ao Dai consists of a long tunic worn over pants. It is often tailored to fit perfectly, highlighting the wearer’s figure.
Buying an Ao Dai in Ho Chi Minh City allows you to choose from a wide range of designs, colors, and patterns, making it a personalized and culturally significant souvenir.
Where to Buy:
- Ao Dai Minh Thu: 278 Nguyen Thuong Hien, Ward 4, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Thai Tuan Fashion: 27-29 Phan Chu Trinh, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
12. Non La (Conical Hat) – A Must-Have Ho Chi Minh City Souvenir
The Non La, or conical hat, is an iconic symbol of Vietnam. Made from palm leaves, bamboo, and rattan, the Non La is both lightweight and durable. It is traditionally worn by farmers and is a practical accessory for shielding oneself from the sun and rain.
Today, it serves as a unique and instantly recognizable souvenir. Some versions are decorated with intricate embroidery or paintings, adding an artistic touch to this traditional item.
Where to Buy:
- Ben Thanh Market: Le Loi, Ben Thanh, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Binh Tay Market: 57A Thap Muoi, Ward 2, District 6, Ho Chi Minh City
13. Checkered Scarf – A Revered Souvenir from Ho Chi Minh City
The checkered scarf, known as “khăn rằn“, is a versatile and meaningful souvenir. Traditionally worn by farmers in the Mekong Delta, the scarf is made from cotton or silk and features a distinctive checkered pattern.
It can be used as a fashion accessory, a head covering, or a simple souvenir that represents the everyday life of Vietnamese people. The khăn rằn is a practical and culturally significant item to bring back from your travels.
Where to Buy:
- Saigon Eco Craft: 36 and 90 Le Loi, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Cincinati: 78A Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
14. Ao Ba Ba – One of the Best Ho Chi Minh City Souvenirs
The Ao Ba Ba is a traditional Southern Vietnamese garment, consisting of a simple, loose-fitting blouse and pants. It is comfortable and practical, often worn by both men and women in rural areas.
Today, it is also appreciated for its stylish and relaxed look. Purchasing an Ao Ba Ba allows you to take home a piece of Southern Vietnamese culture and enjoy the comfort and style of this traditional attire.
Where to Buy:
- Tombo: 145 Dong Khoi Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
- Anupa Eco Boutique: 55 Ngo Quang Huy Thao Dien, District 2, Ho Chi Minh City
15. Marou Chocolate: Artisanal Vietnamese Chocolate
Marou Faiseurs de Chocolat is a renowned brand producing high-quality, artisanal chocolate in Vietnam. Their products are made from locally sourced cocoa beans and come in beautifully designed packaging. This chocolate makes a delicious and luxurious souvenir.
Address: 167 – 169 Calmette, Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Where to Buy the Best Souvenirs in Ho Chi Minh City?
Ben Thanh Market: A Shopper’s Paradise
Ben Thanh Market is one of the most famous markets in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers a wide variety of souvenirs, from clothing to food items. And it has souvenir shops and stores in HCM city to buy. The bustling atmosphere and vast selection make it a must-visit for souvenir shopping.
Binh Tay Market: Hidden Gems in Chinatown
Located in the heart of Chinatown, Binh Tay Market offers a more local shopping experience. It’s a great place to find unique and authentic souvenirs, including traditional Vietnamese items and handcrafted goods.
If you would like to visit Ben Thanh Market and Binh Tay Market, Vietnam Trails Travel offers Saigon tours that help you explore and shop for suitable souvenirs.
Souvenir Shops in District 1
District 1, the central district of Ho Chi Minh City, has numerous souvenir shops offering a variety of items. From traditional crafts to modern gifts, these shops provide a convenient shopping experience for tourists.
Read more: Top Muslim Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City offers a wealth of unique and beautiful souvenirs that capture the essence of Vietnamese culture. Whether you’re looking for traditional items like ao dai and non la or modern gifts from the best gift and souvenir shops, speciality and artisan stores in Ho Chi Minh City, there’s something for everyone. Enjoy exploring the markets and shops, and take home a piece of this vibrant city.
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