What Souvenirs to Buy in Hanoi: 19+ Best Things to Buy (2025 Guide)

If you're asking yourself what souvenirs to buy in Hanoi, you've come to the right place. Bringing a gift home from Vietnam's capital is about more than just an object; it’s about capturing a piece of the city's ancient soul. Each of these Hanoi souvenirs tells a story - of thousand-year-old craft villages, of unique flavors, and of a rich, vibrant culture.

This guide will walk you through the best things to buy in Hanoi, from traditional art to modern fashion. We'll show you not just what to get, but also the most reliable places to find them, so you can bring home a truly authentic memory of your journey.

Where to Buy Art in Hanoi: Traditional Crafts & Paintings

For those looking to bring home a piece of Vietnamese culture, these artistic Hanoi souvenirs are the perfect choice. They represent centuries of tradition and skill.

1. Nón Lá (Conical Hat)

The conical hat is an enduring symbol of Vietnamese culture, instantly recognizable to people around the world. More than just a practical tool, the Nón Lá represents the gentle, rustic charm and resilience of the Vietnamese people. Its simple, elegant form has been perfected over centuries. Gifting a Nón Lá is like sharing a piece of Vietnam’s soul. It's an incredibly lightweight and meaningful gift - a beautiful piece of Vietnamese identity to display at home or give to friends.

• Price Range: Approximately 50,000 - 100,000 VND (~$2 - $4 USD).
• Where to Buy: Widely available in the Old Quarter, especially on Hang Gai Street and Hang Non Street. You can also find them at Dong Xuan Market.

2. Đông Hồ Folk Paintings

For travelers searching where to buy art in Hanoi, Dong Ho paintings are a fantastic choice. Each piece is handcrafted on traditional "dó" paper using natural colors and woodblock prints. The themes often depict traditional life, historical tales, or good luck wishes, such as the famous "Rat's Wedding" or "Boy with a Chicken". Owning a Dong Ho painting is like owning a piece of Thang Long's thousand-year-old culture; it’s a story told through rustic lines and vibrant colors, making it a deeply thoughtful gift for art lovers.

• Price Range: Starts from 100,000 - 300,000 VND (~$4 - $12 USD) for smaller prints.
• Where to Buy: Look for them in art galleries and specialized souvenir shops in the Old Quarter, particularly on Hang Trong Street and Hang Gai Street.

3. Áo Dài

The Áo Dài is the national dress of Vietnam and a profound symbol of the elegant and graceful beauty of Vietnamese women. This beautiful garment is a highly meaningful gift, as it represents a core part of the local culture and is beloved by international friends. To give an Áo Dài is to give a piece of Vietnamese elegance. It’s a sophisticated gesture that shows a deep appreciation for the country's heritage and is sure to impress.

• Price Range: Ready-made versions start from 500,000 VND (~$20 USD) and up.
• Where to Buy: For those wondering where to buy ao dai in Hanoi, many shops in the Old Quarter, especially on Hang Gai Street, sell beautiful ready-made versions. For a custom-fit one, see the "Tailored Clothing" section below.
• Tip: If you want to rent an áo dài for a photo shoot, consider "Cho Thuê Áo Dài - Áo Dài Nhân" It's a reputable shop that comes highly recommended by those who've rented from there.

4. Vạn Phúc Silk

Van Phuc Silk, also known as Ha Dong silk, is a source of pride for the capital, with a history spanning over a thousand years. This is not just any fabric; it is woven by hand from pure silk threads, resulting in a material that is incredibly soft with a natural sheen and intricate patterns. A silk scarf, tie, or Áo Dài made from this material is a luxurious and elegant gift. It's highly valued for its beauty, cultural significance, and portability, making it one of the

best things to buy in Hanoi for those who appreciate true craftsmanship.

• Price Range: Approximately 200,000 - 500,000 VND (~$8 - $20 USD) for a high-quality silk scarf.
• Where to Buy: The best place is Van Phuc Silk Village in Ha Dong District. For those in the city center, many high-end shops on Hang Gai Street also carry authentic Van Phuc silk.

5. Bát Tràng Ceramics

This gift carries the 700-year-old soul of a Vietnamese craft village. The artisans of Bat Trang don't just shape clay; they breathe culture and history into each piece. The ceramics are renowned for their durability, as they are fired at very high temperatures (1200-1300°C), which locks in the intricate patterns and creates a beautiful, glossy glaze. Whether you choose a tea set for daily use, a decorative vase, or a small cup, you are bringing home a piece of Vietnamese pride, an item that is both beautiful and functional.

• Price Range: Starts from 50,000 - 200,000 VND (~$2 - $8 USD) for small items like cups or bowls.
• Where to Buy: The ultimate experience is visiting Bat Trang Ceramic Village in Gia Lam District.

6. Hand-Painted Bamboo & Paper Fans

Embrace the timeless elegance of Vietnam with a beautiful hand-painted bamboo and paper fan. This is more than just a tool to create a gentle breeze in the tropical heat; it is a piece of wearable art and a symbol of traditional grace. Each fan is crafted from natural bamboo spokes and durable paper, then brought to life by local artisans who hand-paint delicate motifs onto its surface. You can find designs ranging from serene landscapes and iconic lotus flowers to elegant calligraphy. The soft rustle of the paper and the cooling air it provides offer a simple, profound connection to a bygone era. As a souvenir, a hand fan is perfect: it's incredibly lightweight, affordable, easy to pack, and serves as a beautiful decorative piece or a functional accessory.

• Price Range: Approximately 70,000 - 200,000 VND (~$3 - $8 USD) for a well-made, painted fan.
• Where to Buy: These fans are widely available throughout the Old Quarter. You can find an excellent selection at souvenir shops along Hang Gai Street, Luong Van Can Street, Dong Xuan Market and around Hoan Kiem Lake. 

Authentic Hanoi Souvenirs: Treats & Local Flavors

7. West Lake Lotus Tea

Considered a "royal" gift, this tea is a symbol of the giver's refined taste. The tea leaves are painstakingly scented with fresh lotus flowers from Hanoi's West Lake in a complex, traditional process. The result is a perfect harmony between the crisp taste of the tea and the enchanting aroma of lotus. To enjoy a cup of this tea is to experience a moment of pure tranquility and elegance, a sensory journey that captures the essence of a Hanoian summer evening.

• Price Range: 500,000 - 3,000,000 VND/100g(~$19 - $115 USD/kg).
• Where to Buy: West Lake Flower Village area.

 Note: This is a seasonal product, available only during the lotus season (May to July).

8. Ô Mai (Candied Fruits)

This is a signature snack of Hanoi, offering a symphony of flavors in every bite. Candied fruits is a traditional treat made from fruits preserved in salt, sugar, ginger, and chili, creating a delightful taste of sweet, sour, salty, and spicy all at once. It’s the perfect, flavorful gift to share the city's culinary culture, a taste that is complex, surprising, and uniquely Hanoian.

• Price Range: 50,000 - 200,000 VND/box (~$2 - $8 USD/box).
• Where to Buy: The most famous area is Hang Duong Street. 

9. Bánh Cốm (Green Sticky Rice Cake)

This specialty snack is the taste of autumn in Hanoi. Bánh Cốm is made from young green rice ("cốm"), which gives it a beautiful jade color, a chewy texture, and a unique, fragrant flavor. Inside is a sweet filling of mung bean paste and shredded coconut. It's a delicate and sophisticated treat that represents the culinary artistry of Hanoians, a flavor that is both nostalgic for locals and wonderfully new for visitors.

• Price Range: 50,000 - 200,000 VND/box (~$2 - $8 USD/box).
• Where to Buy: The definitive place to buy this is Hang Than Street

10. Bánh Chè Lam (Vietnamese Sticky Rice Ginger Cake)

This is a rustic, simple countryside snack that is beloved by locals and tourists alike. It’s made from familiar agricultural ingredients: sticky rice flour, sugar, malt, ginger, and roasted peanuts. The cake has a delightful chewy texture, with the warming spice of ginger blending perfectly with the gentle sweetness of molasses. It's best enjoyed with a cup of hot tea, a perfect taste of Vietnamese home comfort.

• Price Range: ~50,000 - 80,000 VND/box (~$2 - $3.20 USD/box).
• Where to Buy: The most authentic cakes are found directly at their source in craft villages like Thach Xa Village or Duong Lam Ancient Village. 

Modern Finds at a Hanoi Souvenir Shop: Fashion & Unique Gifts

11. Local Artist Stickers

A fantastic way to capture the fun, modern, and creative energy of Hanoi is with a collection of locally designed stickers. This is more than just a simple souvenir; it's a piece of affordable, portable art that allows you to carry the city's vibe with you. Created by talented Vietnamese artists, these high-quality vinyl stickers often feature playful illustrations of Hanoi's most beloved icons: a cartoon drawing of a Phở bowl, a stylized Egg Coffee, the chaotic beauty of its traffic, or witty local slang. They are perfect for personalizing laptops, travel journals, water bottles, or luggage, turning everyday items into a canvas of your memories. They are incredibly lightweight, easy to pack, and make for perfect, inexpensive gifts that support Hanoi's thriving independent art scene.

• Price Range: Approximately 20,000 - 50,000 VND (~$0.80 - $2 USD) for a single, high-quality vinyl sticker.
• Where to Buy: You can also find them in independent bookshops and trendy cafes around the Hoan Kiem district (especially near the Cathedral) and in Tay Ho, which often feature and sell goods from local designers.

12. Fridge Magnets

A classic that's easily found at any hanoi souvenir shop. While small, a magnet is a powerful souvenir. It's a daily reminder of your adventures, a tiny window back to a specific moment or place. Collecting magnets with images of famous landmarks is a wonderful way to create a visual diary of your travels on your refrigerator door.

• Price Range: 10,000 - 30,000 VND (~$0.40 - $1.20 USD).
• Where to Buy: Almost every souvenir shop in the Old Quarter, especially on Hang Gai Street and Hang Bac Street.

13. Artistic Postcards

While simple, a postcard is an incredibly thoughtful and personal gift. In an age of instant messages, taking the time to write is a meaningful act. You can find beautiful cards with artistic photos or paintings of Hanoi's familiar street corners, sit at a cafe, and write a heartfelt message about your experiences to send to a loved one.

• Price Range: 10,000 - 25,000 VND/card (~$0.40 - $1.00 USD/card).
• Where to Buy: Small gift shops on Dinh Le Book Street and Dinh Liet Street.

14. Keychains

A small, practical gift that the recipient can carry with them everywhere. Keychains in Hanoi often come shaped like iconic symbols of the city. Every time they use their keys, they'll have a small, tangible reminder of your trip to the Vietnamese capital and the thoughtful gift you brought back for them.

• Price Range: 15,000 - 50,000 VND (~$0.60 - $2.00 USD).
• Where to Buy: Souvenir shops on Hang Gai Street, Hang Bac Street, and Hang Can Street.

15. Graphic Tote Bags

A trendy, stylish, and highly useful souvenir. These cotton tote bags often feature fun and quirky illustrations or slogans about life in Hanoi. It's a gift that is both fashionable and personal, serving as an eco-friendly shopping bag or a cool accessory that shows off a love for the city’s contemporary, creative energy.

• Price Range: 50,000 - 150,000 VND (~$2 - $6 USD).
• Where to Buy: Small souvenir shops on Hang Trong Street and Hang Bong Street, or look for local designer brands.

16. Bookmarks

This is the perfect small gift for the book lovers in your life. A beautifully designed bookmark made of metal, wood, or paper featuring Hanoi's symbols adds a little "taste" of the capital to every page they read. It’s a thoughtful way to connect your travel experience with their favorite hobby, making their reading time even more special.

• Price Range: 10,000 - 30,000 VND (~$0.40 - $1.20 USD).
• Where to Buy: Dinh Le Book Street or various stationery stores.

17.  Artisan Scented Candles

One of the most powerful ways to remember a place is through its scent, and an artisan candle is the perfect "olfactory souvenir" to capture the essence of Hanoi. This is a more modern, sophisticated choice that moves beyond traditional gifts. Local artisans in Hanoi create beautifully hand-poured candles using natural waxes and complex fragrances that evoke the city’s unique atmosphere. Imagine lighting a candle back home and being transported back to a Hanoi morning by the fresh, calming scent of lotus from West Lake, the sweet fragrance of night-blooming jasmine from a hidden alley, the zesty aroma of lemongrass from a spa, or the sacred, grounding notes of agarwood (trầm hương) from a temple. These candles often come in elegant packaging, making them a beautiful and thoughtful gift that offers a unique sensory connection to your travels long after you've returned.

• Price Range: Approximately 250,000 - 600,000 VND (~$10 - $24 USD) for a high-quality, locally made candle.
• Where to Buy: The Old Quarter, especially in art galleries and souvenir shops on Hang Gai Street and Trang Tien Street.

More than a shop, these are galleries of artistic souvenirs, including stunning candles. Expect premium prices for exclusive, culturally-rich designs. 

18. Tailored Clothing

When it comes to getting custom-made clothing in Vietnam, many travelers think of Ho Chi Minh City's renowned tailor shops. But Hanoi also has a thriving tailoring scene of its own. Here, skilled artisans preserve the elegant art of Vietnamese tailoring, often focusing on classic designs and intricate details. This makes Hanoi an excellent place to get a custom Ao Dai or other garments with a timeless feel, reflecting the city's old-world charm.

• Regarding the turnaround time, here’s a general estimate you can expect:
  • For simple items like a shirt, skirt, or trousers, the turnaround is usually very quick, around 24 to 48 hours.
  • For more complex garments like a full suit or an intricate Ao Dai, you should plan for 3 to 5 days. This process typically includes the initial measurement, a fitting for adjustments, and receiving the final product.
• Price Range: ~300USD - 500 USD (or more depending on your requirements)
• Where to Buy: If you want to know where to buy ao dai in hanoi (custom-made), these are top choices:
  • Tailor Đức Nhân: 32 P. Hàng Nón, Hàng Gai, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Việt Nam
  • NGO GIA Tailor: 44 P. Nguyễn Hữu Huân, Lý Thái Tổ, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội
  • Ngo Minh Tailor Hanoi: 143 P. Hàng Bông, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội

19. Hanoi-themed T-shirt

Beyond the temples and traditions, there's a modern, playful side to Hanoi, and nothing captures it better than a themed T-shirt. Tourists in Vietnam seem to have a strong affinity for these shirts, and for good reason. They are more than just clothing; they are wearable inside jokes and declarations of love for the city. Their affordability and humorous slogans make them the perfect, easy gift for friends back home. Choosing one of these T-shirts is one of the best things to buy in Hanoi to remember the fun, energetic pulse of its streets.

• Price Range: Approximately 100,000 - 250,000 VND (~$4 - $10 USD).
• Where to Buy:
  • TiredCity: A popular local brand with artistic designs.
  • Many street vendors and souvenir shops throughout the Old Quarter.

A One-Stop Guide to Hanoi Souvenir Shops

If you're wondering where to start your souvenir hunt, here’s a curated list of popular and reliable shops. These are places where you can find a wide variety of items, so you don't have to second-guess your choices.

Artistic & Handcrafted Gifts

• Souvenir - Stationery Phương Nội: 23 P. Hàng Bồ, Hoàn Kiếm. A lovely little shop that combines a cafe and gift store. It's a paradise for postcard and stationery lovers, and a great place to write down your thoughts.
• Mountain's Color 1 Ha Noi Handmade Shop: 12 P. Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm. This shop specializes in handcrafted souvenirs with a strong Hanoi character. Here, you’ll find intricate gifts that show off the skill of local artisans.
• Souvenir Store Hà Phương: 32 Hàng Bè, Hoàn Kiếm. A well-known spot for traditional souvenirs like paper fans and silk scarves, it's a go-to for those who want gifts with an authentic Vietnamese feel.
• CULCAT: 9C P. Đinh Liệt, Hoàn Kiếm. A local brand specializing in stickers and creative products. It stands out for its youthful, modern style and unique designs that are popular with young people.
• Hanoi Mood:ON: 15 P. Âu Triệu, Hoàn Kiếm. An arts and crafts store where you can find unique and creatively designed fridge magnets, perfect for a memorable souvenir.
• Nôm Souvenir 68 Hàng Điếu: 68 Hàng Điếu, Hoàn Kiếm. Nôm is famous for its unique souvenirs and keychains. The shop has a classic, nostalgic feel, perfect for those who appreciate traditional beauty.

• Gói Gém Concept Store: 32 Hàng Bè, Hoàn Kiếm. This store specializes in tote bags, fabric bags, and products designed by local artists. Gói Gém is known for its creative and practical gifts.
• The Craft House Cathedral: 19 Phố Nhà Chung, Hoàn Kiếm. Located near the St. Joseph's Cathedral, this is a refined shopping space featuring a collection of fine handicrafts, scented candles, and other unique products.
• Collective Memory - The House of Curios: 12 P. Nhà Chung, Hoàn Kiếm. An artistic space where you can find highly artistic souvenirs, perfect for those looking for something unique and sophisticated.
• Bán tranh Đông Hồ: Ngõ 179 Đ. Hoàng Hoa Thám, Ba Đình. A shop specializing in Dong Ho folk paintings, it's an ideal address for those who love traditional art and want to learn about Vietnamese folklore.

Food & Traditional Apparel

• O Mai Hong Lam: 11 P. Hàng Đường, Hoàn Kiếm. This is the most famous "O Mai" brand in Hanoi, offering a wide variety of traditional preserved fruits with distinctive sweet, sour, salty, and spicy flavors.
• Cốm Làng Vòng Bà Hoản: Số 36, Ngõ 63, Đ. Xuân Thủy, Cầu Giấy. A highly respected address for authentic Vong Village green sticky rice flakes.
• Cốm Nàng Tấm: 9 P. Hàng Vải, Hoàn Kiếm. Another well-known and trusted brand for traditional green sticky rice flakes in the Old Quarter.

• Lụa Vạn Phúc - Phương Linh Silk & Đông Hương Silk: Làng Vạn Phúc, Hà Đông. These are specialized stores for Van Phuc silk, one of Vietnam's most famous traditional craft villages.
• Trà sen - Trà Sen Minh Cường & Trà sen Bách diệp: Two famous spots for authentic lotus tea, a refined and high-class specialty of Hanoi.
• Văn phòng bánh chè lam Hà Nội: XPWW+R82, Đ. Hữu Hưng, Nam Từ Liêm. This is the official office for Che Lam cakes from the village, making it a convenient place to buy the authentic product.

When the Souvenir Tells a Story

Hanoi isn't just a city to be seen, but a treasure trove to be discovered. The souvenirs you take home aren't just inanimate objects; they are fragments of memory, the very breath of the streets, and the pulse of history. Whether you choose a traditional item or a small, charming gift, each one holds its own unique story, waiting for you to tell it. So go ahead and "decode" to your heart's content, and bring home the most meaningful gifts, because each souvenir is a "ticket" that will bring you back to Hanoi, whenever you wish

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