Shopping in Vietnam : Ultimate Guide to Markets, Malls, and Souvenirs

Discover the Best Markets, Night Bazaars, and Local Shops in Vietnam

Night markets and local bazaars are an essential part of Vietnam tourism, offering a vibrant blend of culture, food, and local life. Streets come alive with colours, aromas, and music, where traditional crafts, handmade souvenirs, and street delicacies create an unforgettable experience. While cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are well known for their bustling markets, smaller towns such as Hoi An and Da Nang offer shopping experiences. Shopping in Vietnam is not just buying goods—it involves exploring stories, flavours, and traditions that make every visit memorable.

Top Markets and Shopping Malls in Vietnam: City-by-City Guide

Đông Xuân Market (Hanoi)

Get into the centre of the Old Quarter of Hanoi and experience the power of the city. The Dong Xuan Market is a place filled with garments, fruits, and aromatic street food. This market bustles with people, both locals and tourists. Night markets during the evening are filled with lights, street food and performances.

• Timings: Daily, 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM; Night Market Friday–Sunday, 06:00 PM – 10:30 PM
• Perfect For:  food lovers and cultural explorers
• What to Find: Clothes, silk scarves, souvenirs, and street food like Bánh Cuốn

Bat Trang Pottery Village (Hanoi)

Bat Trang is a pottery village in Vietnam, located a few minutes from Hanoi. Watch talented craftsmen make bowls, vases, and decorations using the same methods of crafting their pieces that have been used over the centuries. Direct purchases at the workshops will ensure aid in sustaining the local crafts.

• Timings: Daily, 08:00 AM – 05:30 PM
•  Perfect For: Art lovers, collectors, and culture enthusiasts
•  What to Find: Handmade ceramics, decorative bowls, vases, and pottery workshops

Ben Thanh Market (Ho Chi Minh City)

Ben Thanh Market is bustling with colours, fragrances, and noises in the centre of Saigon. There are market stalls with souvenirs and fresh products of local origin. In the evening, the market is illuminated by its bright lights. It is one of the best places to visit in Vietnam when in Ho Chi Minh City.

• Timings: Daily, 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM; Night Market from 06:00 PM
• Perfect For: Shoppers, foodies, and cultural explorers
• What to Find: Souvenirs, textiles, spices, lacquerware, and coffee

Vincom Centre (Ho Chi Minh City)

Right in the heart of District 1, Vincom Centre is where Ho Chi Minh City’s modern shopping scene truly shines. This mall buzzes with global fashion labels and stylish restaurants. Whether you’re looking to splurge on luxury brands, grab a quick bite, or unwind at the cinema.

• Timings: Daily, 09:30 AM – 10:00 PM
•  Perfect For: Luxury lovers, families
•  What to Find: Trendy fashion stores, top electronics, a lively food court, and a movie theatre

Saigon Square (Ho Chi Minh City)

The Saigon Square offers air-conditioned halls and fixed prices. It suits well with travelling people who want to do organised shopping without much tension. There is also the provision of clothing, handbags, shoes, and electronics, all under a single roof. 

• Timings: Daily, 09:00 AM – 09:00 PM
• Perfect For: Casual shoppers, brand seekers, and convenience lovers
• What to Find: Clothing, handbags, shoes, and electronics

Central Market (Hoi An)

The Hoi An Central Market is so full of vibrant daytime stalls that it represents the charm of the city. Locals and tourists shop for colourful textiles, fresh herbs and spices. There is a display of traditional crafts with everyday goods that provide the visitor with a sneak preview of Hoi An life. 

• Timings: Daily, 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
•  Perfect For: Food lovers, textile shoppers
•  What to Find: Fresh produce, spices, textiles and souvenirs

Hoi An Night Market

Hoi An is lit up with lanterns, music, and sizzling street food as the night sets in. The Night Market is a magical shopping experience along the Thu Bon River, one of the best rivers in Vietnam. The stalls are full of handmade goods and great local delicacies.

• Timings: Daily, 05:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Perfect For: Photographers, souvenir collectors, and evening strollers
•  What to Find: Lanterns, handmade crafts, street snacks, and local artworks

Con Market (Da Nang)

Con Market is central Da Nang’s vibrant hub. Fresh seafood, local produce, and colourful textiles fill its aisles. The lively atmosphere gives visitors a taste of daily Vietnamese life. It is a great stop for authentic finds while exploring the city.

• Timings: Daily, 07:00 AM – 06:00 PM
• Perfect For: Bargain hunters and everyday shoppers
•  What to Find: Fresh seafood, clothing, souvenirs, and snacks

Han Market (Da Nang)

Han Market offers a compact yet lively shopping experience in central Da Nang. Its indoor and outdoor sections feature handicrafts, textiles, and food items. Visitors get a mix of authentic local shopping and cultural insight. The market is perfect for a quick yet rich experience.

• Timings: Daily, 06:00 AM – 06:00 PM
• Perfect For: Tourists looking for authentic souvenirs
• What to Find: Handicrafts, textiles
  

Dong Ba Market (Hue)

 Dong Ba Market blends history and shopping. Visitors can find imperial crafts, street food, and fresh produce in one vibrant space. Its traditional charm makes it a must-see for travellers interested in culture and souvenirs. Combining a Citadel visit with the market is highly recommended.

• Timings: Daily, 06:00 AM – 05:00 PM
•  Perfect For: History lovers, souvenir shoppers, and food enthusiasts
•  What to Find: Conical hats, imperial crafts, street food, and fresh produce

Dinh Cau Night Market (Phu Quoc Island)

This market is famous for Phu Quoc Island and its pearl farms that reflect the island’s coastal charm. Dinh Cau night market has a vibrant atmosphere, and it also offers tourists an experience of everyday Vietnamese life. The best thing to do in Vietnam when sightseeing on the island is to explore the market, where the cultural and shopping experiences are served with a local flavour.

• Timings: Pearl farms – Daily, 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM; Night Markets – Daily, 06:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Perfect For: Jewellery shoppers, beachgoers, and food lovers
• What to Find: Pearl jewellery, local delicacies, dried seafood, and souvenirs

Must-Buy Souvenirs in Vietnam: Prices, Authenticity, and Cultural Value

• Silk Clothes –  Vietnamese silk is soft and colourful, which fits perfectly in custom dresses. When you wear them, it is as though you are carrying a part of the Vietnamese culture with you.
• Price: VND 500,000–2,300,000 (~INR 1,900–9,000)
• Pottery  – Local skills and traditions are represented in handcrafted bowls, vases, and decoratives. Every artwork is different and a valuable souvenir.
• Price: VND 180,000–1,500,000 (~INR 650–5,900)
• Lacquered ware – Lacquered boxes, panels, and ornaments combine elegance with artistry. They make lasting gifts that reflect Vietnamese craftsmanship.
• Price: VND 20,000–10,000,000 (~INR 80–39,500)
• Lanterns – Vietnamese lanterns are used with bright and colourful lanterns to bring home the festive touch of Vietnam. The latter can be used as decoration or as a special gift.
• Price: VND 10,000–200,000 (~INR 40–800)
• Pearls – Phu Quoc Island pearls are characterised by understated classiness or bold jewellery. They represent the beauty and attractiveness of the islands.
• Price: VND 1,000,000–30,000,000 (INR 3,900–118,000)

Vietnam Shopping Tips: Bargaining, Payments & Safety Advice

1. Bargaining is expected at markets, street stalls, and small shops, but not in malls. Smile, stay friendly, and start below your maximum price.
   
2. Always agree on the final price before paying, and get a receipt for higher-value items. This helps with any disputes or VAT (value-added tax) refunds.
   
3. ATMs are available everywhere in cities, with small fees; always withdraw in VND for better rates. Mobile wallets like MoMo, VNPay, or ZaloPay are handy for longer stays.
   
4. High-value items like lacquerware, ceramics, or pearls should be bought from reputable vendors. Look for certificates or maker’s marks to ensure they are genuine.

Conclusion:  Why Shopping in Vietnam is More Than Just Buying Souvenirs

Shopping in Vietnam is not just a shopping experience but an immersion into the rich and diverse culture, with its colours, flavours, and traditions. Shopping in Vietnam is a joy for culture hunters and collectors alike, as you visit the bustling markets, grab colourful souvenirs and dive into the trip. So, what are you all waiting for? Pickyourtrail is here for you! Book your Vietnam family tour packages now for a hassle-free trip.

FAQs

What are the best markets to visit in Vietnam?

Top markets include Dong Xuan, Ben Thanh, and Hoi An Central Market, filled with culture, food, and souvenirs.

Which souvenirs are must-buys in Vietnam?

Silk clothes, pottery, lacquerware, lanterns, and Phu Quoc pearls showcase Vietnamese craftsmanship.

Can I bargain at Vietnamese markets?

Yes, bargaining is expected at markets and street stalls, but not in malls.

Are mobile payments accepted in Vietnam?

Yes, MoMo, VNPay, and ZaloPay are widely used alongside cash and cards.