Jan - 13 - 2026
What to buy in Ho Chi Minh City is a journey into a vibrant world of traditional crafts, elegant fashion, and irresistible flavors. This guide is your ultimate companion, created by GTrip to ensure you find the perfect souvenirs and local gifts that capture the soul of Saigon. We've curated the definitive list of 14 must-buy items that will leave you with cherished memories of your trip. The timeless grace of the ao dai and the rustic charm of bamboo products, or the rich aroma of Vietnamese coffee, this article covers everything you need to know. We’ll show you what to look for, where to find it, and how to choose authentic pieces that truly represent this dynamic city. Get ready to fill your suitcase with treasures that go beyond typical trinkets and bring a piece of Vietnamese culture home with you.
1. Traditional Vietnamese ao dai
Bringing home a traditional ao dai is like capturing Vietnamese elegance in a single outfit. This iconic garment, a tight-fitting silk tunic worn over loose trousers, is a powerful symbol of national pride and beauty. When shopping for an ao dai, the fit is everything. While ready-made versions are available, the best experience comes from getting one custom-tailored. If you’re wondering where to buy ao dai in Ho Chi Minh City, exploring local tailor shops and markets will ensure you find authentic pieces.
You can choose from a vast array of fabrics such as silk, chiffon, and brocade, along with patterns ranging from simple floral motifs to intricate hand-painted designs. A tailor-made ao dai ensures a perfect, figure-flattering fit and becomes a deeply personal memento of your time in Vietnam both a beautiful garment and a wearable work of art.
Recommended places to buy traditional ao dai in Saigon:
- Ben Thanh Market: Ben Thanh Ward (former District 1), HCMC
- Kinzu: 460 Le Van Sy, Nhieu Loc Ward (formerly Ward 14, District 3), HCMC
- OnOn MADE: 1C Le Thi Rieng, Ben Thanh Ward (formerly Pham Ngu Lao Ward, District 1), HCMC
A tailor-made ao dai is a timeless symbol of Vietnamese elegance and a beautifully personal souvenir to cherish
2. Silk products in Ho Chi Minh City
Ho Chi Minh City is a paradise for silk lovers, offering a stunning variety of products that showcase both luxury and Vietnamese craftsmanship. Vietnam’s long history of silk production is reflected in the quality of the items you’ll find across the city.
When choosing silk products, think beyond fabric by the yard. You’ll find lustrous scarves, comfortable pyjama sets, and beautifully embroidered silk paintings. To ensure authenticity, try a simple burn test if possible a small thread should smell like burnt hair or trust the feel, as real silk is smooth and cool to the touch. A hand-painted silk scarf or tailored silk blouse makes a lightweight, elegant gift that’s easy to pack and treasured for years.
Recommended places to buy silk products in Saigon:
- Phuong Mai Silk: 06 Minh Phung, Dong Hung Thuan Ward (formerly Tan Thoi Nhat Ward, District 12), HCMC
- Thai Tuan Silk: 419 Hai Ba Trung, Nhieu Loc Ward (formerly Ward 8, District 3), HCMC
- Toan Thinh Silk: 258 Le Thanh Ton, Ben Thanh Ward (former District 1), HCMC
3. Ao ba ba - Traditional southern Vietnamese clothing
For a souvenir that captures the rustic charm and laid-back comfort of Southern Vietnam, look no further than the ao ba ba. This traditional outfit, featuring a simple collarless blouse paired with trousers, was historically worn by farmers and workers in the Mekong Delta and remains a symbol of the region’s gentle spirit and simplicity.
The ao ba ba is prized for its incredible comfort and practicality, usually crafted from breathable fabrics like cotton or silk, making it ideal for warm climates. More casual and versatile than the ao dai, it comes in a wide range of colors, often in soft silk or patterned cotton. This authentic garment is a comfortable keepsake and a charming reminder of Southern Vietnam’s relaxed, welcoming way of life.
Recommended places to buy ao ba ba:
- Ao dai Minh Thu: 199 Nguyen Thai Binh, Ben Thanh Ward (former Nguyen Thai Binh Ward, District 1), HCMC
- Ao ba ba Han Nguyen: 482/62 Le Quang Dinh, Ben Thanh Ward (formerly Ward 11, Binh Thanh District), HCMC
- Hoai Giang shop: 11 Vo Truong Toan, Gia Dinh Ward (formerly Ward 2, Binh Thanh District), HCMC
The ao ba ba captures the rustic charm of Southern Vietnam with its simple, comfortable design and timeless, easygoing spirit
4. Non la (Vietnamese conical hat)
The non la, or Vietnamese conical hat, is arguably the most recognizable symbol of Vietnam. Non la is a piece of cultural identity and a testament to clever, practical design. Made from simple, natural materials like palm leaves, bamboo, and bark from the Moc tree, the non la is a masterpiece of functional folk art.
Its primary purpose has always been to protect its wearer from the relentless sun and sudden downpours, making it an essential item for farmers, market vendors, and anyone working outdoors. Buying a non la in Ho Chi Minh City is incredibly easy, as they are sold in nearly every market and souvenir shop. While it might be a bit bulky to carry home, it serves as a fantastic decorative piece for your wall, instantly evoking images of Vietnam's lush rice paddies and bustling city streets.
Recommended places to buy non la:
- Ben Thanh Market: Ben Thanh Ward (formerly District 1), HCMC
- Local traditional markets: Tan Dinh Market, Ba Chieu Market, or Binh Tay Market (Cho Lon), where you’ll often find more authentic designs at better local prices and a less touristy shopping experience.
5. Wooden souvenirs
Wooden souvenirs from Ho Chi Minh City highlight the remarkable craftsmanship of Vietnamese artisans, especially in woodcarving and lacquerware. These items carry a sense of warmth and detail that makes them especially meaningful as gifts.
Popular choices include intricately carved statues of Buddha or mythical figures, sets of elegant wooden chopsticks, and beautifully decorated lacquer boxes perfect for storing jewelry. You can also find handcrafted wooden trays, bowls, and even small, foldable furniture. When shopping, look for items made from native woods like rosewood or mahogany. The attention to detail in the carvings is what makes these souvenirs stand out as timeless pieces of art that bring a touch of Vietnamese tranquility into any home.
Recommended places to buy wooden souvenirs:
- Ben Thanh Market: Ben Thanh Ward (formerly District 1), HCMC
- The Craft House: 28 Nguyen Trai, Ben Thanh Ward (former District 1), HCMC
- Huong Nga Art and Craft: 212 Buou Ong Thoan, Tang Nhon Phu Ward (formerly Tang Nhon Phu B Ward, Thu Duc City), HCMC
Handcrafted wooden souvenirs highlight Vietnamese artistry with warm, intricate designs that make timeless and meaningful keepsakes
6. Bamboo products
Bamboo is a cornerstone of Vietnamese life and culture, and its versatility shines through in the wide array of beautiful, eco-friendly souvenirs available in Ho Chi Minh City. These products are celebrated for their sustainability, lightness, and rustic charm. As you explore the city's shops, you'll discover an impressive assortment of bamboo crafts.
The most popular bamboo items include woven baskets, durable bowls, serving trays, and unique kitchen utensils. Another fantastic find is the bamboo lantern, which, when lit, casts a warm, inviting glow, reminiscent of ancient towns like Hoi An. These handcrafted products are not only practical but also serve as a wonderful testament to Vietnam's resourceful spirit. Choosing a bamboo souvenir means you're taking home a piece of nature that has been artfully transformed by skilled hands, making it a thoughtful and environmentally conscious gift.
Recommended places to buy bamboo products:
- Ben Thanh Market: Ben Thanh Ward (formerly District 1 ), Ho Chi Minh City
- Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street: Cho Lon Area, Ho Chi Minh City
7. Hand-embroidered paintings
For a souvenir that combines delicate beauty with profound artistry, a hand-embroidered painting is an exceptional choice. This traditional Vietnamese craft requires immense patience and skill, with artisans spending countless hours stitching intricate designs onto silk or cotton fabric.
The result is a stunning piece of textile art with a unique texture and depth that paint alone cannot replicate. Common motifs found in hand-embroidered paintings include serene landscapes, vibrant flowers like the lotus and peony, and charming scenes of Vietnamese daily life. These paintings are incredibly lightweight and can be easily rolled up for travel, making them a practical yet deeply cultural gift. Owning one is like having a window into the soul of Vietnam, captured not with a brush but with a needle and thread, representing a timeless tradition of meticulous craftsmanship.
Recommended places to buy hand-embroidered paintings at Ben Thanh Market
Hand-embroidered paintings are delicate works of Vietnamese craftsmanship, capturing culture, nature, and tradition through intricate needlework
8. Sand paintings
Sand painting is one of the most fascinating and unique art forms you'll discover in Ho Chi Minh City. It is a mesmerizing craft where talented artists use tiny funnels and a variety of colorful sands to create incredibly detailed images inside clear glass containers, such as jars, tumblers, or flat frames.
The true magic of sand painting is the artist's ability to create complex scenes such as Ha Long Bay, Hoi An Ancient Town,... The images are held in place purely by the precise layering and compacting of the sand. Watching an artist at work is an unforgettable experience in itself. A sand painting is a fragile but deeply captivating souvenir, capturing a moment of incredible skill and patience in a bottle. It makes for a truly unique decorative item and a fantastic conversation starter back home.
Recommended places to buy sand paintings:
- Cat My Art: 116/3 Tan My, Tan My Ward (formerly Tan Tuan Tay Ward, District 7), HCMC
- Ben Thanh Market: Ben Thanh Ward (formerly District 1), HCMC
9. Brocade (ethnic textile products)
Brocade textiles offer a vibrant and culturally rich souvenir option, telling the stories of Vietnam's diverse ethnic minority groups. Woven on traditional looms by artisans from communities in the country's northern highlands, these textiles are characterized by their bold geometric patterns and brilliant, vivid colors.
Each pattern holds a specific meaning, reflecting the beliefs, stories, and natural surroundings of the tribe that created it. In Ho Chi Minh City, you can find this beautiful fabric transformed into a wide range of practical and stylish products, including tote bags, purses, decorative tablecloths, and clothing. Buying a brocade product is more than just a transaction, it's a way to support the preservation of traditional weaving techniques and empower ethnic communities. It’s a meaningful gift that carries a piece of history and a story in every thread.
Recommended places to buy brocade:
- Khan Km0: 215 Street 1, Thong Tay Hoi Ward (formerly Ward 11, Go Vap District), Ho Chi Minh City
- Tho cam Kim Bao: 33E Vinh Vien, Vuon Lai Ward (formerly Ward 2, District 10), Ho Chi Minh City
- The gioi Tho Cam: 59 Hong Dao, Tan Binh Ward (formerly Ward 14, Tan Binh District), Ho Chi Minh City
Colorful brocade textiles celebrate Vietnam’s ethnic heritage with bold patterns, rich symbolism, and timeless craftsmanship
10. Gold-plated paintings of famous Saigon landmarks
If you're searching for a truly luxurious and impressive gift from Ho Chi Minh City, a gold-plated painting is an outstanding option. These high-end souvenirs capture the essence of Saigon's most iconic architecture in a dazzling and sophisticated style. These artworks feature famous landmarks, such as the Ben Thanh Market, Notre Dame Cathedral, or the Opera House, expertly rendered in shimmering gold leaf. The golden relief is typically set against a dark, contrasting background, making the intricate details of the architecture pop. This creates a stunning visual effect that feels both modern and timeless.
These paintings are not just souvenirs, they are premium decorative pieces that exude elegance and celebrate the city's heritage. They are perfect for a special occasion gift or as a statement piece of art to commemorate an unforgettable trip to Vietnam.
11. Vietnamese ceramics and pottery
Vietnamese ceramics and pottery have a rich history that stretches back thousands of years, and bringing home a piece is like owning a fragment of this long-standing tradition. The craft is famous for its quality and artistry, with distinct styles originating from various regions, such as the renowned Bat Trang Pottery Village.
In Ho Chi Minh City, you'll discover a wonderful variety of ceramic goods that blend traditional techniques with modern aesthetics. You can find everything from delicate tea sets and elegant vases to charming rice bowls and decorative plates. Many pieces feature classic hand-painted motifs, including blue and white patterns, lotus flowers, or swimming fish. Whether you choose a simple, rustic bowl or an elaborately decorated vase, a piece of Vietnamese pottery serves as a beautiful and functional souvenir that adds a touch of authentic charm to any home.
Recommended places to buy:
- Gom su Minh Long: 158 Nguyen Phuc Nguyen, Nhieu Loc Ward (formerly District 3), HCMC
- Khong gian Gom Bat Trang: 96 - 98 Vo Thi Sau, Tan Dinh Ward (formerly Tan Dinh Ward, District 1), HCMC
- Bat Trang Family: 356 Bach Dang, Thanh My Tay Ward (formerly Ward 25, Binh Thanh District), HCMC
Vietnamese ceramics blend centuries-old craftsmanship with timeless beauty, making elegant and meaningful souvenirs for any home
12. Vietnamese dried foods in Ho Chi Minh City
One of the best ways to bring the taste of Vietnam home is by exploring the incredible world of its dried foods. Packing an explosion of flavor, these items are lightweight, easy to travel with, and offer a delicious way to share your culinary adventures with friends and family. The markets of Ho Chi Minh City are packed with a dizzying array of options. Must-try items include various types of dried fruits, such as sweet and chewy dried mango, jackfruit, or pomelo rind. Another popular category is o mai, which are salted dried apricots or plums. For a savory snack, look for dried squid or beef jerky seasoned with local spices. These treats are perfect for recreating Vietnamese flavors in your own kitchen or simply enjoying as an exotic snack.
You can easily find these items at popular markets like Ben Thanh, Tan Dinh, and Binh Tay, or in the dried food aisles of major supermarkets.
13. Marou artisan chocolate
For a taste of modern, world-class Vietnamese craftsmanship, look no further than Marou Faiseurs de Chocolat. This celebrated bean-to-bar company has put Vietnam on the global map for fine chocolate, making it a sophisticated and delicious souvenir.
What makes Marou exceptional is its dedication to single-origin cacao, with each bar sourced from a different province in Southern Vietnam. This means each bar has a unique flavor profile reflecting its terroir from the fruity notes of the Ba Ria bar to the spicy kick of the Ben Tre bar. The packaging is as exquisite as the chocolate itself, with award-winning wrapper designs that are works of art. A selection of Marou chocolate bars is a perfect gift for the foodie in your life or a luxurious treat for yourself.
14. Vietnamese tea and coffee
No trip to Vietnam is complete without indulging in its world-famous coffee and tea, and bringing some home is a must for any enthusiast. Vietnam is the world's second-largest coffee producer, known for its strong and flavorful Robusta beans.
A classic souvenir is a bag of Trung Nguyen coffee, paired with a traditional 'phin' filter, which allows you to recreate the authentic Vietnamese slow-drip coffee experience. For tea lovers, the options are equally enticing. Look for fragrant teas scented with flowers, such as lotus tea or jasmine tea, which are signatures of Vietnamese tea culture. These aromatic beverages are not just drinks, they are an integral part of Vietnamese hospitality and social life. Grabbing a few beautifully packaged boxes from a local cafe or supermarket is an easy and delightful way to savor your memories of Saigon.
You can purchase packaged coffee and tea at well-known chains such as:
- Phuc Long Coffee & Tea
- Trung Nguyen Legend
- Highlands Coffee
Vietnamese coffee and tea are iconic, flavorful souvenirs that let you relive Saigon’s rich cafe culture at home
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What to buy in Ho Chi Minh City is taking a piece of local culture home with you. Elegant handcrafted ao dai or bamboo products and rich Vietnamese coffee, each souvenir reflects the city’s identity and craftsmanship. With guidance from GTrip, these 14 picks showcase the best items to purchase in Ho Chi Minh City. Whether you explore them on your own or as part of Ho Chi Minh City tours, each purchase becomes a meaningful memory of the streets, people, and experiences that made your trip special.
