What To Buy In Hanoi: Top 20 Must-Have Souvenirs & Gifts

What to buy in Hanoi is often a question that arises the moment you step into its lively, maze-like streets. Beyond the historic site and tree-lined boulevards lies a world of hidden gems, handcrafted goods, time-honored delicacies, and thoughtful souvenirs that speak of the city's soul. At GTrip, we believe that shopping here is about stories: of craft villages, culinary secrets, and cultural pride passed down through generations. To bring a piece of Hanoi home is to carry a little part of its spirit with you, tangible, memorable, and deeply personal.

1. Ao dai

The ao dai, Vietnam's elegant national dress, represents the perfect souvenir from Hanoi that combines cultural significance with practical wearability. This graceful garment features a long, form-fitting tunic worn over pants, creating a flowing silhouette that symbolizes Vietnamese feminine beauty and cultural identity. In recent years, modern designs have emerged alongside traditional styles, making ao dai accessible to international visitors who appreciate its elegant lines and comfortable wear.

While ready-made options are available, the true experience comes from having one custom-tailored to your measurements. Tailored ao dai typically takes 3-5 days to complete, so plan this purchase early in your Hanoi visit. Prices vary widely depending on fabric quality and craftsmanship.

Here are some suggested places for you to shop:

• Ao dai Minh Duc: 41 Dang Tien Dong Street, Dong Da Ward, Hanoi (41 Dang Tien Dong Street, Trung Liet Ward, Dong Da District, Hanoi)
• Ao dai Ha Cuc: 11 Luong Van Can Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (11 Luong Van Can Street, Hang Gai Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)

When purchasing an ao dai, consider the occasion you'll wear it for. Every day, ao dai designs tend to be more practical with subdued colors, while ceremonial versions feature vibrant hues and intricate embroidery. Most tailors offer fabric selection services and can recommend appropriate styles based on your body type and preferences. For travelers with limited luggage space, many shops can arrange international shipping of your purchase.

Ao dai, Vietnam’s iconic traditional dress, makes a meaningful and wearable souvenir that beautifully blends cultural heritage with modern elegance

Read more: Where to Buy Ao Dai in Hanoi – Top 10 Trusted Shops

2. Non la (Conical hat)

Non la, Vietnam's iconic conical hat, represents both practical protection and cultural heritage. These elegant palm-leaf hats feature distinctive patterns when held against sunlight, with the best versions hand-woven from carefully selected leaves. Beyond being a functional sun shield, a genuine non la makes for an authentic souvenir that connects travelers to centuries of Vietnamese tradition.

For the highest quality non la, visit Chuong Village, the birthplace of this craft with over 300 years of hat-making history. This traditional village, located about 30km southwest of central Hanoi, specializes in premium conical hats made with exceptional craftsmanship. Here, you can watch artisans meticulously weave each hat and select one with intricate patterns or poetry inscribed beneath the surface.

Where to buy non la in Hanoi:

• Chuong Village: Thanh Oai Commune, Hanoi (Phuong Trung Commune, Thanh Oai District, Hanoi). Located about 3 km south of the center of Thanh Oai Commune and approximately 30 km southwest of downtown Hanoi
• Dong Xuan Market: Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)

When purchasing, look for lightweight hats with even weaving and a subtle fragrance from the palm leaves. Quality non la will have a smooth inner surface and intricate stitching. Consider buying a collapsible travel version if luggage space is limited, though traditional styles make more impressive displays at home.

A timeless symbol of Vietnamese identity, the conical hat is a lightweight, practical, and beautifully handcrafted souvenir

3. Com

Com is one of Hanoi’s most iconic autumn delicacies and a treasured local souvenir. Made from immature sticky rice grains roasted and pounded into soft, fragrant flakes, com carries a delicate sweetness and grassy aroma that captures the essence of northern Vietnam’s harvest season. Often wrapped in layers of lotus leaves, this treat is as beautiful to present as it is to enjoy.

Com is best enjoyed on its own or paired with ripe bananas, but it also features in other specialties like com xao (stir-fried young rice) or banh com, a sweet, chewy rice cake with a mung bean paste filling. Banh com is especially popular at weddings and festivals, symbolizing prosperity and fidelity in Vietnamese culture. Its vivid green color, soft texture, and rich flavor make it a standout snack for visitors looking for something both traditional and meaningful.

Artisanal versions from traditional villages like Me Tri or Vong Village offer the most authentic flavor and texture. These handmade treats are the ideal choice for those seeking a taste of Hanoi’s culinary heritage, and they’re light enough to bring home as edible souvenirs.

Where to buy authentic com in Hanoi:

• Vong Village: Cau Giay Ward, Hanoi. This is the most traditional and renowned place to experience authentic green rice. Many local households still make com by hand, preserving the delicate texture and signature fragrance. Visitors can also witness the meticulous preparation process during the autumn season.
• Banh Com Nguyen Ninh: 11 Hang Thang Street, Ba Dinh Ward, Hanoi (11 Hang Thang Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi). A well-known address for com-based sweets, especially banh com (green rice cakes with mung bean filling). This family-run shop dates back over a century and remains a trusted stop for high-quality, beautifully packaged souvenirs.

Shopping tips:

• Look for vacuum-sealed packages if you're traveling far, as they extend shelf life
• Morning purchases often yield the freshest batches
• Most shops offer sample tastings before purchase
• Prices range from 100,000 - 300,000 VND depending on quality and packaging

These portable, relatively non-perishable treats make excellent souvenirs that allow you to share authentic Vietnamese flavors with friends and family back home. They’re also a delicious way to relive your travel memories long after you’ve left Vietnam.

Delicate and fragrant, com is Hanoi’s signature autumn treat and a meaningful edible souvenir wrapped in tradition

Read more: The 15 Best Places to Buy Souvenirs in Hanoi

4. Lotus tea from West Lake

West Lake lotus tea represents one of Hanoi's most exquisite traditional beverages, renowned for its delicate fragrance and cultural significance. This speciality tea is meticulously crafted by placing green tea leaves inside lotus flowers overnight, allowing them to absorb the flower's subtle aroma. The process, perfected over centuries, produces a smooth, aromatic tea with gentle floral notes that perfectly embody Hanoi's refined culinary heritage.

The process of creating authentic lotus tea involves several meticulous steps:

• Harvesting: Lotus flowers are carefully gathered from West Lake before sunrise, when their fragrance is most potent
• Tea selection: Only premium green tea leaves are selected for infusion
• Infusion process: Tea leaves are placed inside lotus flowers for 24 - 48 hours
• Drying: The lotus-scented leaves are carefully dried to preserve their aroma
• Packaging: Traditional packaging often includes lotus petals for enhanced authenticity

What makes West Lake lotus tea special is its cultural significance as a gift. This premium tea, long exchanged as a symbol of purity and elegance, makes a tasteful and meaningful souvenir.

Where to buy authentic lotus tea:

• Ba Dan Lotus Tea: 33 To Ngoc Van, West Lake Ward, Hanoi (33 To Ngoc Van, Quang An Ward, West Lake District, Hanoi)
• Minh Cuong Lotus Tea: 135 Nguyen Ngoc Nai, Kim Lien Ward, Hanoi (135 Nguyen Ngoc Nai, Khuong Thuong Ward, Thanh Xuan District, Hanoi)

When purchasing, look for these quality indicators:

• Genuine lotus tea should have a subtle, natural fragrance (not overwhelming)
• The color should be light golden-green when brewed
• Higher-end varieties may include visible lotus stamens for authenticity

West Lake lotus tea is a refined Hanoi speciality, prized for its delicate floral aroma and centuries-old craftsmanship that transforms green tea into an elegant cultural gift

5. To He (Toy figurines)

To he are one of Hanoi's most charming traditional crafts, featuring colorful edible rice dough moulded into delightful animal and character shapes. These vibrant, handcrafted toys have delighted Vietnamese children for centuries and make perfect souvenirs that represent authentic Vietnamese folk art. Traditionally sold by street vendors carrying bamboo poles with the figurines attached, to he are both cultural artifacts and symbols of childhood nostalgia.

The rice dough artisans use natural food colorings to create vivid hues, and each figurine takes just minutes to craft by skilled hands. While originally made as children's toys, today they serve as meaningful cultural keepsakes for visitors wanting to bring home something uniquely Vietnamese.

Where to find authentic to he figurines in Hanoi:

• Xuan La Village: Phu Xuyen, Hanoi (Thuong Duc, Phu Xuyen, Hanoi). This is the traditional home of ‘to he’, where artisans have practiced this craft for generations. You can meet the makers, watch the process firsthand, and buy authentic pieces directly from the source.
• Dong Xuan Market: Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi). More convenient location for tourists staying in the Old Quarter.

When purchasing To He figurines, remember they're delicate and can be damaged easily. Many shops now offer non-edible versions made from clay that last longer as souvenirs. For an authentic experience, try watching the figurines being made before purchasing. Many artisans are happy to demonstrate their craft.

To he, Hanoi’s colorful rice dough figurines are whimsical folk art creations that capture Vietnamese childhood nostalgia and make uniquely charming cultural souvenirs

6. O mai (Preserved fruits)

O mai, a traditional Vietnamese preserved fruit snack, represents one of Hanoi's most beloved culinary souvenirs. These candied fruits, undergo a meticulous preservation process that creates a distinctive sweet-sour-salty flavor profile unlike anything found in Western confectionery. The most authentic variety, dracontomelon o mai, delivers a complex taste experience that evolves as you eat it, starting with salty-sour notes before revealing subtle sweetness.

Hang Duong Street in Hanoi's Old Quarter has earned its reputation as the city's "O Mai Street" with multiple generations-old shops specializing in these traditional treats. Each establishment offers slight variations in its preservation techniques and flavor profiles, with some adding star anise, liquorice, or ginger for additional complexity.

Popular o mai varieties to try:

• Dracontomelon: the classic Hanoi speciality
• Kumquat: bright citrus notes with sweet-tart balance
• Ginger: spicy and warming
• Apricot: subtly sweet with pleasant chewiness
• Plum: intensely flavorful with complex sweetness

Here are some suggested places for you to shop:

• O Mai Gia Loi: 8 Hang Duong Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (8 Hang Duong Street, Hang Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• O Mai Gia Thinh: 13 Hang Duong Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (13 Hang Duong Street, Hang Dao Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)

Look for shops that offer samples, top spots take pride in their unique recipes and gladly let you taste before buying. Select packages that feel slightly moist but not wet, as overly dry o mai indicates age or poor quality.

O mai, Hanoi’s beloved preserved fruit snack, offers a unique sweet-sour-salty taste and makes for a flavorful, culturally rich souvenir

7. Magnet dolls

Magnet dolls represent Vietnam's cultural heritage in miniature form, making them perfect souvenirs that combine practicality with charm. These colorful figurines typically depict Vietnamese people in traditional attire, particularly women in ao dai dresses or conical hats, often engaged in daily activities like farming or selling goods. Hand-painted with meticulous detail, each magnet captures the essence of Vietnamese culture in a form small enough to adorn your refrigerator back home.

What makes these souvenirs special is their cultural authenticity combined with affordability. The higher-quality versions feature intricate details with vibrant colors that remain vivid even after years of display.

Best places to shop for magnet dolls in Hanoi:

• Dong Xuan Market: Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (Dong Xuan Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi), this is Hanoi's largest indoor market where you'll find dozens of stalls selling magnet dolls among other souvenirs. Prices here tend to be lower, but expect to bargain.
• Ma May Markets: Situated in the heart of the Old Quarter on Ma May Street, these smaller markets offer a more curated selection of magnet dolls with slightly higher quality.

When purchasing, look for magnets with smooth painting and strong magnetic backing. Vendors often offer discounts for multiple purchases, making these an excellent option for buying gifts for several friends or family members back home.

Magnet dolls offer a charming, compact way to bring home a slice of Vietnamese culture, featuring hand-painted figures in traditional attire

8. Vietnamese coffee

Vietnamese coffee stands as an iconic souvenir that perfectly captures Hanoi's rich culinary culture. Known for its robust flavor and unique brewing method, Hanoi coffee offers an intensely aromatic experience unlike any other. Most local coffee uses Robusta beans from Vietnam’s highlands, roasted with butter and ingredients like fish sauce or rice liquor for a unique flavor. The traditional Vietnamese coffee maker (phin) is an inexpensive yet essential companion purchase that allows you to recreate the authentic brewing experience at home.

Here are some suggested places for you to shop:

• Hidden Gem Coffee: 1 Hang Mam Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (1 Hang Mam Street, Hanoi Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
• Giang Coffee: 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)

When purchasing coffee, try to buy beans that have been roasted within the past month for optimal flavor. While pre-ground options offer convenience, whole beans maintain freshness longer and allow you to adjust the grind size to suit your brewing method. Most vendors will vacuum-seal your purchase for easy transport back home, making Vietnamese coffee both a practical and memorable souvenir from your Hanoi adventure.

Vietnamese coffee is a bold, aromatic souvenir that reflects Hanoi’s rich culinary heritage, best enjoyed with a traditional phin filter for an authentic brew

Read more: Top 20 Coffee Shops in Hanoi Old Quarter for an Unforgettable Trip

9. Maison Marou Chocolate

Discover Vietnam's premium chocolate at Maison Marou, an artisanal chocolate maker that has revolutionized Vietnamese cacao production. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, Marou creates single-origin chocolate bars made exclusively with Vietnamese cacao beans, offering a truly authentic taste of the country's terroir.

What makes Maison Marou special:

• Bean-to-bar production - They control every step from sourcing beans directly from Vietnamese farmers to crafting the final product
• Single-origin varieties - Each chocolate bar highlights beans from different Vietnamese provinces, showcasing unique flavor profiles
• Ethical sourcing - Direct trade relationships with farmers ensure fair compensation and sustainable practices
• Minimal ingredients - Most products contain just cacao, sugar, and cocoa butter (no additives or preservatives)
• Award-winning quality - Internationally recognized for exceptional taste and craftsmanship

Their Hanoi flagship offers an immersive experience with live chocolate-making, fresh pastries, and rich drinks. The elegantly packaged chocolate bars, available in various percentages and flavor profiles, make perfect gifts that combine luxury with Vietnamese craftsmanship.

Where to buy Maison Marou Chocolate: 91A Tho Nhuom Street, Cua Nam Ward, Hanoi (91A Tho Nhuom Street, Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem, Hanoi)

Try their signature Thanh Long 70% dark chocolate with its bright fruity notes. The popular gift boxes featuring multiple varieties also make exceptional souvenirs that showcase Vietnam's growing reputation in fine chocolate.

Maison Marou crafts award-winning, single-origin Vietnamese chocolate with ethical sourcing and bold local flavors, an authentic, luxurious Hanoi gift

10. Banh che lam

Banh che lam is a traditional Vietnamese rice cake that represents an integral part of Hanoi's culinary heritage. This chewy rectangular treat, made from sticky rice flour, brown sugar, ginger, and peanuts, offers a fragrant, spicy-sweet flavor. The dark brown cakes are typically cut into small pieces and wrapped in dong leaves, making them both an authentic souvenir and a delicious edible gift from the capital.

What makes banh che lam special is its long shelf life and connection to northern Vietnamese traditions. Originally from Thach That district on Hanoi's outskirts, these cakes were historically prepared for Tet (Lunar New Year) celebrations but are now available year-round. The production process involves carefully roasting the rice flour before mixing it with sugar syrup and ginger, then compressing the mixture into wooden moulds before cutting into bite-sized pieces.

Key characteristics of quality banh che lam:

• Dark brown color with a glossy surface
• Slightly elastic texture that's chewy but not sticky
• Aromatic ginger fragrance balanced with sweetness
• Fresh pieces should be soft with a slight resistance when bitten
• Authentic versions use natural ingredients without preservatives

Here are some suggested places for you to shop:

• Banh che lam Hong Lam: Hong Lam Store System in Hanoi offers traditionally-made cakes following recipes passed down through generations, with consistent quality and authentic flavors
• Banh che lam Kim Cuc: No. 5, Alley 159/25 Huu Hung Street, Tay Mo Ward, Hanoi (No. 5, Alley 159/25 Huu Hung Street, Tay Mo Ward, Nam Tu Liem District, Hanoi) is known for their handcrafted cakes with a perfect balance of ginger and sweetness

When purchasing banh che lam as a souvenir, look for properly wrapped packages that protect the cakes from humidity. Well-made versions can last several weeks, making them ideal gifts to bring home and share the taste of Hanoi with friends and family.

Banh che lam is a chewy ginger-infused rice cake from Hanoi, offering a spicy-sweet flavor and long shelf life, perfect as a traditional, edible souvenir

11. Vietnamese silk

Hanoi has been renowned for its exquisite silk production for centuries, making Vietnamese silk one of the most coveted souvenirs for visitors. Traditional weaving techniques give the fabric its natural sheen, lightweight feel, and lasting durability. Hanoi's silk stands out for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns that beautifully represent Vietnam's cultural heritage. Vietnamese silk makes for practical yet luxurious souvenirs that don't weigh down your luggage. Consider purchasing:

• Silk scarves - Lightweight, elegant accessories in traditional patterns
• Ties - Handcrafted with precision, perfect for formal occasions
• Ao dai fabric - For custom tailoring back home
• Home decor items - Including cushion covers, table runners, and wall hangings
• Ready-made clothing - From shirts to dresses in both modern and traditional styles

Where to shop for Vietnamese silk in Hanoi:

• Royal Silk: 64 Hang Trong Street, Hoan Kiem Ward (64 Hang Trong Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District) offers one of the finest selections of silk products in Hanoi.
• Van Phuc Silk Village: Ha Dong represents the heart of Hanoi's silk-making tradition. Located about 10km from the city center, this 1,000-year-old village allows visitors to witness the entire silk-making process from silkworm cultivation to finished products.

Vietnamese silk from Hanoi, prized for its vibrant colors and fine craftsmanship, makes a luxurious yet lightweight souvenir rooted in centuries of tradition

12. Hanoi-themed t-shirts

For a fun, lightweight souvenir that captures the spirit of Vietnam's capital, Hanoi-themed t-shirts have become increasingly popular among travelers. These colorful garments feature creative designs celebrating Hanoi's iconic landmarks, witty Vietnamese phrases, or stylised representations of the city's culture.

Where to find the best Hanoi t-shirts:

• Hang Gai Street - Known for higher-quality cotton shirts with artistic designs
• Dong Xuan Market - Budget-friendly options with various prints
• Old Quarter shops - Specialized boutiques with unique, locally-designed graphics
• Trang Tien Plaza - Premium options with better fabric quality
• Hoan Kiem Lake vendors - Simple designs at negotiable prices

Popular designs feature Hanoi skylines, vintage-style art, Long Bien Bridge, quirky Vietnamese phrases, and motorbike-themed graphics. Before purchasing, check stitching quality around the neck and sleeves, as this often indicates overall durability. Many shops also offer customisation services where you can add your name or personalized messages in Vietnamese characters for an additional fee.

Hanoi-themed t-shirts combine playful design with cultural flair, making them fun, lightweight souvenirs that celebrate the city’s vibrant spirit

13. Bat Trang ceramics

Bat Trang ceramics represent one of Hanoi's most treasured craft traditions, dating back to the 14th century. These distinctive pottery items showcase Vietnam's artistic heritage through their intricate blue and white designs, delicate celadon glazes, and hand-painted motifs. Bat Trang ceramics offer a perfect blend of artistry and utility, ranging from everyday items like tea sets and bowls to ornate vases and sculptures, each piece rich in cultural meaning and craftsmanship.

What makes these ceramics special is their authentic craftsmanship. Each piece is created using traditional techniques passed down through generations, with local artisans often incorporating contemporary elements while respecting time-honored methods. The clay itself comes from the Red River bed, giving Bat Trang ceramics their distinctive texture and durability.

Popular Bat Trang ceramic items to purchase:

• Tea sets and coffee cups (perfect for daily use)
• Rice bowls and serving plates with traditional patterns
• Decorative vases and flower pots featuring lotus motifs
• Ceramic jewellery boxes and small trinket containers
• Animal figurines and zodiac symbols for home decoration
• Custom-made items with personalized designs or names

Here are some suggested places for you to shop:

• Bat Trang Ceramic Village: Bat Trang Street, Gia Lam, Hanoi (Bat Trang Street, Cho Gom, Gia Lam, Hanoi)
• Calendar ceramic shop: 11A Trang Thi Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (11A Trang Thi Street, Trang Tien Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)

When purchasing ceramics, check for quality by gently tapping the item, high-quality pieces produce a clear, resonant sound. Also, examine the glaze for evenness and look for the artist's signature on better pieces. Most shops offer shipping services for larger items, making it convenient to bring home these beautiful Vietnamese treasures regardless of your luggage limitations.

Bat Trang ceramics are iconic Vietnamese souvenirs known for their centuries-old craftsmanship, intricate hand-painted designs, and perfect blend of beauty and function

Read more: Top 5 Places Where to Buy Ceramics in Hanoi

14. Lacquerware

Lacquerware stands as one of Hanoi's most exquisite traditional crafts, combining functionality with artistic expression. These meticulously crafted pieces feature multiple layers of natural lacquer derived from the sap of the lacquer tree, often incorporating elements like eggshell, mother-of-pearl, or gold leaf. The creation process is labor-intensive, with each piece requiring several months to complete as artisans apply up to 20 layers of lacquer, sanding between each application to achieve the signature glossy finish.

Hanoi's lacquerware encompasses a diverse range of products, from practical home items to decorative masterpieces:

• Home decor: Vases, bowls, plates, and decorative panels
• Jewellery boxes: Intricately designed storage for precious items
• Furniture: Small tables, cabinets, and screens
• Office accessories: Pen holders, business card cases, and desk organizers
• Personal items: Hairpins, bracelets, and earrings

Modern lacquer artists have innovated beyond traditional techniques, incorporating contemporary designs while maintaining the essence of this ancient craft. When shopping for lacquerware, look for pieces with smooth surfaces, consistent color application, and well-defined decorative elements.

Where to find quality lacquerware in Hanoi:

• Thu Huong Lacquer Arts: 118 Nguyen Khanh Toan Street, Cau Giay Ward, Hanoi (118 Nguyen Khanh Toan Street, Quan Hoa Ward, Cau Giay District, Hanoi) offers an exceptional selection of high-quality lacquerware created by skilled artisans.
• Lacquer Studio: 26 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Ha Dong Ward, Hanoi (26 Luong Ngoc Quyen Street, Van Quan Ward, Ha Dong District, Hanoi) specialises in contemporary interpretations of traditional lacquer art. Their collection features innovative designs that appeal to modern tastes while honoring Vietnamese artistic heritage.

When purchasing lacquerware, remember that quality pieces command higher prices due to the extensive craftsmanship involved. Most reputable shops offer shipping services, making it convenient to send larger items home safely.

Lacquerware is one of Hanoi’s most refined traditional crafts, prized for its glossy finish, intricate inlays, and blend of artistry with everyday function

15. Bamboo crafts

Bamboo crafts represent one of Hanoi's most sustainable and culturally significant souvenirs. These eco-friendly items showcase the incredible versatility of bamboo, which has been central to Vietnamese daily life for centuries. These lightweight yet durable items showcase the artistry of Vietnamese weavers, making bamboo gifts a natural choice for those who appreciate both beauty and heritage. Hanoi's artisans transform bamboo into remarkably diverse products, each displaying meticulous attention to detail:

• Household items: Coasters, placemats, serving trays, and storage baskets
• Decorative pieces: Intricate lamps, wind chimes, and wall art
• Fashion accessories: Bamboo handbags, jewellery, and sunglasses
• Musical instruments: Traditional flutes and percussion instruments
• Furniture: Small stools, tables, and decorative screens

The beauty of bamboo crafts lies in their sustainability, bamboo grows rapidly without pesticides and biodegrades naturally. These lightweight souvenirs also pack easily into luggage, making them practical purchases for travelers.

Where to shop for authentic bamboo crafts:

• Bamboo Village Shop: 108 Xuan Dieu Street, Tay Ho Ward (108 Xuan Dieu Street, Tu Lien Ward, Tay Ho District)
• Bamboo Shop: 25 To Ngoc Van Street, Tay Ho Ward (25 To Ngoc Van Street, Quang An Ward, Tay Ho District)

When shopping for bamboo crafts, look for items with smooth finishes and tight weaving patterns, indicating quality craftsmanship. The natural color variations in bamboo make each piece unique. Many shops also offer custom designs if you're seeking something truly special to remember your Hanoi experience.

Bamboo crafts from Hanoi offer eco-friendly charm and traditional artistry, transforming a sustainable material into elegant, functional souvenirs

16. Do paper products

Do paper (also called Zo paper) represents one of Vietnam's most cherished traditional crafts, with its history stretching back over 1,000 years. This handmade paper, created from the bark of the Do tree, features distinctive natural tones and remarkable durability, making it perfect for souvenirs that blend functionality with cultural significance. Do paper is crafted into artistic items like notebooks, cards, fans, and paintings that beautifully showcase Hanoi's landmarks.

The appeal of Do paper lies in its unique properties: it's naturally insect-resistant, doesn't yellow with age, and can last for centuries when properly cared for. Many contemporary artists in Hanoi have revitalized this traditional craft by incorporating modern designs while preserving the authentic production techniques.

Recommended places to shop for Do paper products:

• Souvenir shops in the Old Quarter of Hanoi
• Stores around Hoan Kiem Lake and the Temple of Literature

When shopping for Do paper products, look for items that feel substantial yet delicate. Authentic Do paper has a distinctive texture and slight natural variation in color. These thoughtful souvenirs support traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship and provide a lightweight, easy-to-pack memento of your time in Hanoi.

Do paper is a traditional Hanoi craft made from tree bark, known for its durability and natural texture, often crafted into notebooks, cards, and artwork

17. Ethnic minority crafts

Vietnam's 54 ethnic minority groups have preserved their unique cultural traditions through intricate handcrafts. In Hanoi, you'll find stunning textiles, jewellery, and home decor pieces that tell stories of Vietnam's diverse highland communities. These authentic treasures make meaningful souvenirs while supporting traditional artisans and sustainable tourism.

Craft link: 51 Van Mieu, Van Mieu Ward (51 Van Mieu, Van Mieu Ward, Dong Da District) stands out as Hanoi's premier destination for ethnic minority crafts. This fair-trade organization works directly with artisans from remote communities like the Hmong, Dao, and Thai groups, ensuring craftspeople receive fair compensation for their work. Their spacious shop near the Temple of Literature displays a carefully curated collection of handmade items with detailed information about their cultural significance.

Types of ethnic minority crafts to consider:

• Textiles and clothing
  • Hmong indigo batik fabric with geometric patterns
  • Colorful embroidered bags and cushion covers
  • Traditional hand-woven scarves with tribal motifs
  • Embroidered hemp jackets and vests
• Jewellery and accessories
  • Silver necklaces and bracelets from the H'mong people
  • Embroidered purses and wallets
  • Handwoven bamboo baskets
  • Tribal-inspired contemporary jewellery
• Home decor items
  • Hand-embroidered wall hangings depicting village scenes
  • Woven bamboo storage containers and baskets
  • Traditional musical instruments
  • Ceremonial masks and carvings

Explore Hanoi's ethnic minority crafts, from handwoven textiles to silver jewellery, each piece reflecting the rich heritage of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups

18. Paintings about Hanoi

Hanoi's soul comes alive through vibrant artwork that captures the city's timeless charm, from misty mornings on Hoan Kiem Lake to the bustling energy of the Old Quarter. For travelers seeking authentic souvenirs with artistic value, Hanoi offers exceptional paintings that serve as lasting mementoes of your Vietnamese journey.

• On the streets of Nguyen Thai Hoc and Hoang Hoa Tham form the heart of Hanoi's art district, galleries and studios showcase works from emerging and established Vietnamese artists. These areas are perfect for discovering paintings that capture:
• Traditional scenes: Iconic landmarks like Long Bien Bridge, ancient temples, and French colonial architecture
• Street life vignettes: Bicycle vendors, street food stalls, and daily life in Hanoi's 36 streets
• Contemporary interpretations: Modern takes on Vietnamese culture by up-and-coming artists
• Watercolors and oils: Diverse techniques showcasing Hanoi's changing seasons and lighting

The best art shops often offer wrapping services to protect your purchases during travel. This makes these beautiful visual memories of Hanoi practical souvenirs, even for those with limited luggage space.

Bring home the spirit of Hanoi with evocative paintings capturing its street life, historic landmarks, and timeless charm found in vibrant art districts like Nguyen Thai Hoc

19. Hand embroidery

Hanoi's exquisite hand embroidery represents centuries of Vietnamese artistic tradition, with skilled artisans creating intricate designs that tell stories through thread. These painstakingly crafted pieces feature delicate landscapes, floral motifs, and traditional scenes that can take weeks or even months to complete. The night market offers a wonderful entry point to discover these treasures, but for premium quality, consider these specialized shops:

Where to find quality hand embroidery in Hanoi:

• Tan My Designs 61 Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi (61 Hang Gai Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi)
  • Family-owned business with 50+ years of embroidery heritage
  • Features both traditional and contemporary Vietnamese designs
  • Offers everything from small decorative items to large wall hangings
  • Premium pricing reflects exceptional craftsmanship
• May Store 27/43 Chua Boc, Dong Da Ward (27/43 Chua Boc, Trung Liet Ward, Dong Da District)
  • Specialises in embroidered clothing, accessories, and home decor
  • More budget-friendly options without compromising quality
  • Showcases work from various northern Vietnamese villages
  • Provides customisation services for personalized pieces

Hanoi’s hand embroidery showcases Vietnam’s artistry through intricate, story-rich designs found in night markets and specialty shops alike

20. Propaganda posters

Time-stamped reminders of Vietnam's revolutionary past, propaganda posters have become highly sought-after souvenirs that blend history, art, and politics. These striking prints showcase bold graphics, vibrant colors, and powerful messaging from Vietnam's wartime and communist eras. Collectors appreciate them for their historical significance, while casual shoppers love their distinctive aesthetic that immediately evokes Vietnam's complex political history.

Original vintage posters from the 1960s and 70s are increasingly rare and expensive, but high-quality reproductions are widely available. These reproductions maintain the authentic style and revolutionary spirit while being more affordable and easier to transport. Popular themes include wartime resistance, socialist labor movements, and peace celebrations.

Where to find authentic propaganda posters in Hanoi:

• Hang Bac Street - Several small galleries stock both originals and reproductions, with knowledgeable staff who can explain the historical context
• Trang Tien Street - Home to shops specialising in vintage propaganda art, often with a certificate of authenticity
• Old Quarter art galleries - Many boutique galleries offering curated collections at various price points
• Hang Gai Street - Several shops combine propaganda art with other Vietnamese antiques and collectables

Bold and iconic, Hanoi’s propaganda posters offer a unique blend of history and art, capturing Vietnam’s revolutionary spirit in striking visual form

Exploring the vibrant markets and charming boutiques of Hanoi offers more than just shopping, it’s a deep dive into the city's rich culture and heritage. Exploring what to buy in Hanoi turns every souvenir into a lasting connection with the city's rich heritage and vibrant street life. This guide has aimed to invite curiosity, sparking ideas for treasures you might want to bring home. As you plan your adventure, let these insights inspire wanderlust and a deeper connection with the places you visit. If you feel there's more to discover, consider how each item represents a piece of Hanoi's story and yours. Planning your next escape or just daydreaming, GTrip fuels your wanderlust with inspiration at every turn.