What to Buy in Saigon: 20+ Must-Have Souvenirs to Bring Home

Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) is not only a food paradise but also a shopping paradise with a variety of products, from handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs to local specialties. So what should you buy in Saigon as a gift for relatives and friends? Explore the article below for the best suggestions!

Here is a table summarizing the must-buy souvenirs in Saigon for international travelers

1. Top 3 Traditional Fashion Items of Vietnam

Dynamic and modern Saigon still retains its unique traditional cultural beauty. Traditional Vietnamese clothing is one of the meaningful souvenirs that you can bring back from your trip.

1.1. Traditional Ao Dai - Timeless beauty

Ao Dai is the national costume of Vietnam, a symbol of elegant, graceful, and traditional beauty. Throughout many historical periods, the Ao Dai has constantly been innovated but still retains the soul of Vietnamese national culture.

Ao Dai is the embodiment of Vietnamese beauty and a meaningful gift to introduce Vietnamese culture to international friends. Ao Dai comes in many different styles, materials, and colors, suitable for all ages and preferences.

The price of Ao Dai varies depending on the material, style, and tailoring skill.

Tailored Ao Dai is often more expensive than ready-made Ao Dai.

Visitors can buy traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai as a souvenir. - Photo Source: Pexels

Some places to buy Ao Dai:       

• Traditional Ao Dai shops on Nguyen Trai Street, District 5
• Ben Thanh Market.
• Famous Ao Dai tailors in Saigon.
• Major shopping centers.

Notes:

• Choose breathable and comfortable fabrics.
• If ordering tailoring, choose a reputable tailor to ensure quality and style.
• When buying ready-made Ao Dai, check the seams and fabric carefully.

1.2. Ba Ba Shirt - Journey into memories

Ba Ba shirt is a typical traditional costume of the Mekong Delta, Southern Vietnam, expressing the simplicity, closeness, and cultural beauty of the people in the river region.

Ba Ba shirt is an indispensable part of Southern culture, so this is a meaningful gift to preserve and introduce this cultural beauty. With a simple design and soft fabric, Ba Ba shirts bring comfort and ease to the wearer. Today, Ba Ba shirts are innovated with many different styles and colors, suitable for many people's preferences.

The price of Ba Ba shirts varies depending on the fabric material, style, and tailoring skill. Usually, tailored Ba Ba shirts are more expensive.

Ba Ba shirts are reminiscent of Southern Vietnamese girls. - Photo Source: Pixabay

Some places to buy Ba Ba shirts:        

• Ben Thanh Market.
• Souvenir shops in the city center.
• Shops specializing in selling Ba Ba shirts.

Notes:

• Choose breathable fabrics that absorb sweat well.
• Check the stitching carefully when buying.

1.3. Nam Bo Plaid Scarf - Rural soul in bustling Saigon

The plaid scarf ('khan ran') is a versatile item, deeply connected to the daily life of Southern Vietnamese people. It's not just a regular scarf, but also a symbol of simplicity, rusticity, and closeness. These scarves typically feature checkered or striped patterns, with black, white, brown, or green as the main colors.

A plaid scarf reflects the simple, rustic nature of the Southern Vietnamese people, making it a meaningful gift to show care and appreciation. Additionally, it can be used for various purposes, such as sun protection, warmth, wiping sweat, or as a fashion accessory.

Plaid scarves are very affordable, ranging from a few tens of thousands of Vietnamese dong. Prices may vary depending on the material and size.

The plaid scarf is one of the traditional accessories of Southern Vietnamese people. - Photo Source: Freepik
 

Some places to buy plaid scarves:

• Ben Thanh Market.
• Roadside stalls.
• Traditional markets in the Mekong Delta provinces.
• Supermarkets.
• Souvenir shops.

Notes:

• Choose plaid scarves made from cotton or silk to ensure comfort during use.
• Plaid scarves come in many colors, so choose a color that suits your personal preference.

2. Top 5 Exquisite and Unique Handicrafts

Exquisite and unique handicraft products are meaningful souvenirs that showcase the skill and talent of Vietnamese artisans.

2.1. Lacquer Paintings - Bringing "Vietnamese soul" into living spaces

Lacquer painting is a traditional Vietnamese art form, using lacquer techniques to create unique artworks, often with high durability, vibrant colors, and artistic depth.

Lacquer paintings are unique souvenirs, expressing respect and affection for the recipient, while also adding a luxurious and sophisticated touch to living spaces.

The price of lacquer paintings varies depending on the size, complexity of the artwork, and the artisan's skill, ranging from a few hundred thousand to tens of millions of Vietnamese dong.

Lacquer paintings are unique souvenirs that visitors can take home. - Photo Source: Pixabay

Some places to buy lacquer paintings:

• Lacquer painting shops on Dong Khoi and Le Loi streets.
• Lacquer painting workshops.
• Art galleries.

Notes:

• Choose to buy lacquer paintings at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully inspect the painting's surface, lines, and gloss.
• Research the meaning of the painting before purchasing.

2.2. Hand-Embroidered Art - A meticulous gift for the "sophisticated"

Hand embroidery is a traditional Vietnamese art form, using needle and thread to create artworks on fabric.

Hand embroidery is done manually, requiring meticulousness and skill from the artisan. This is a unique souvenir, expressing care and appreciation for the recipient.

The price of hand-embroidered products varies depending on the size, complexity of the artwork, and fabric material. Therefore, prices can range from a few hundred thousand to millions of Vietnamese dong.

Hand embroidery is one of the traditional art forms of Vietnam. - Photo Source: Pexels

Some places to buy hand-embroidered art:

Some places to buy hand-embroidered art, and for broader options on where to shop in saigon for various goods, include:

• Hand embroidery shops on Le Thanh Ton and Nguyen Trai streets.
• Hand embroidery workshops.
• Traditional markets.

Notes:

• Choose to buy hand-embroidered products at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the stitching, fabric material, and colors of the product.
• Research the meaning of embroidered patterns before purchasing.

2.3. Ceramics - The "essence" of a thousand-year-old craft

Vietnamese ceramics are a long-standing cultural heritage, demonstrating the sophistication and skill of Vietnamese artisans. Ceramic products vary in style, color, and material.

Ceramics are a symbol of Vietnamese culture, a souvenir imbued with historical significance, and can be used as household items, decorations, or gifts.

The price of ceramics can range from a few tens of thousands to millions of Vietnamese dong, depending on the material, style, and artisan's skill.

You can buy ceramic pieces as gifts for relatives or friends back home. - Photo Source: Pexels

Some places to buy ceramics:

• Lai Thieu Pottery Village (Binh Duong).
• Ceramic shops on Ly Chinh Thang Street, District 3.
• Ben Thanh Market.
• Souvenir shops.

Notes:

• Choose to buy ceramics at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the product's surface, avoiding cracked or scratched products.
• Pack carefully when transporting.

2.4. Wooden Artifacts - A "durable" gift through time

Vietnamese wooden handicrafts are famous for their exquisite craftsmanship and diverse styles.

Wooden handicrafts often have high durability, can be used for a long time, and have high collectible value, making them meaningful gifts for art enthusiasts.

The price of wooden handicrafts varies depending on the wood material, size, and product complexity.

Wooden handicrafts are meaningful gifts for art enthusiasts. - Photo Source: Freepik

Some places to buy wooden handicrafts:

• Wooden handicraft shops on Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, District 1.
• Wooden handicraft workshops.
• Wooden goods markets.

Notes:

• Choose to buy wooden handicrafts at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the wood material, carving lines, and product finish.
• Learn about different types of wood.

2.5. Silk - A timeless gift from Saigon

Vietnamese silk is famous for its softness, sheen, and variety of colors and patterns. It is made from natural silk fibers, boasting high quality and durability.

Silk is a luxurious gift, expressing care and appreciation for the recipient.

The price of silk varies depending on the material, style, and brand, ranging from a few hundred thousand to millions of Vietnamese dong.

Silk is one of the luxurious souvenirs. - Photo Source: Freepik

Some places to buy silk:

• Silk shops on Dong Khoi and Le Thanh Ton streets.
• Ben Thanh Market.
• Traditional silk craft villages.

Note:

• Choose to buy silk at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the silk material, stitching, and product colors.
• Learn about how to care and preserve silk.

3. Top 9 Saigon Specialties Rich in Flavor

Saigon's specialties, with their rich and unforgettable flavors, make meaningful gifts for relatives and friends.

3.1. Crispy Rice with Shredded Pork - Crunchy, flavorful, irresistible

Crispy rice with shredded pork ('com chay cha bong') is a familiar snack in Saigon, made from crispy fried rice combined with flavorful shredded pork floss.

This dish has a rich, crunchy flavor and is conveniently packaged for easy transport. Therefore, it's an ideal snack to enjoy or give as a gift.

The price of crispy rice with shredded pork varies depending on the brand and weight, ranging from a few tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong.

Some places to buy crispy rice with shredded pork:

• Saigon specialty shops.
• Supermarkets.
• Traditional markets.
• Roadside stalls.

Notes:

• Choose to buy crispy rice with shredded pork at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the expiration date and packaging.
• Store in a dry place.

3.2. Durian Pia Cake - An "exclusive" delicious treat from the South

Durian pia cake ('banh pia sau rieng') is a specialty cake from the South, made from wheat flour, mung bean, durian, and salted egg yolk.

This is a traditional cake of Southern people, imbued with cultural significance, making it a unique gift that expresses the giver's sophistication and thoughtfulness.

The price of durian pia cake varies depending on the brand and size, ranging from a few tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong.

Pia cake is one of the specialty cakes of Southern Vietnam. - Photo Source: Shutterstock

Some places to buy Saigon pia cake:

• Saigon specialty shops.
• Supermarkets.
• Traditional markets.

Notes:

• Choose to buy durian pia cake at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the expiration date and packaging.
• Store in a cool place.

3.3. Grilled Coconut Cake - Fragrant, crunchy, full of hometown flavor

Grilled coconut cake ('banh dua nuong') is a specialty cake from the South, made from wheat flour, shredded coconut, and sugar.

Grilled coconut cake has a characteristic coconut flavor and a crunchy texture, making it an unmissable cake. It's also a meaningful hometown gift, expressing care and appreciation for the recipient.

"Similarly, the price of grilled coconut cake can range from a few tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong, depending on the brand and size.

Some places to buy grilled coconut cake:

• Saigon specialty shops.
• Supermarkets.
• Traditional markets.
• Roadside stalls.

Notes:

• Choose to buy grilled coconut cake at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the expiration date and packaging.
• Store in a dry place.

3.4. Dried Snakehead Fish - A "nostalgic" specialty from the Southwest

Dried snakehead fish ('kho ca loc') is a famous specialty of the Mekong Delta, prepared from fresh snakehead fish with a rich, flavorful taste.

Dried snakehead fish is imbued with regional cultural significance and can be stored for a long time, making it a convenient gift.

The price of dried snakehead fish also varies depending on the size, weight, and quality, ranging from a few tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong.

Dried snakehead fish is one of the famous specialties of Southern Vietnam. - Photo Source: Freepik

Some places to buy dried snakehead fish:

• Mekong Delta specialty shops.
• Traditional markets.
• Supermarkets.
• Roadside stalls.

Notes:

• Choose to buy dried snakehead fish at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the color and dryness of the product.
• Store in a dry, well-ventilated place.

3.5. Dried Catfish - A delightful seafood dish

Dried catfish ('kho ca dua') is made from fresh catfish and is one of the famous specialties of the Southern region.

With the advantage of easy preservation, dried catfish is a meaningful gift to bring home to relatives and friends.

The price of dried catfish varies depending on size and quality, ranging from a few tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong.

Dried catfish is easy to preserve, making it a unique gift for family and friends. - Photo Source: Dreamstime

Some places to buy dried catfish:

• Mekong Delta specialty shops.
• Traditional markets.
• Supermarkets.
• Roadside stalls.

Notes:

• Choose to buy dried catfish at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Carefully check the color and dryness of the product.
• Store in a dry, well-ventilated place.

3.6. Dried Lotus Seeds - A "superfood" for health

Dried lotus seeds are a food processed from fresh, delicious lotus seeds, offering a fragrant taste and high nutritional value.

With a naturally sweet, nutty flavor and a delightful crunch, dried lotus seeds are not only a popular snack but also a meaningful gift for health.

The price of dried lotus seeds can range from a few tens of thousands to a few hundred thousand Vietnamese dong, depending on the brand and product weight.

Dried lotus seeds are one of the specialties you can buy as gifts. - Photo Source: Pngtree

Some places to buy dried lotus seeds:

• Saigon specialty shops.
• Supermarkets.
• Traditional markets.
• Dried goods shops.

3.7. Coffee - Energizing "wake-up" from Saigon

Vietnam proudly stands as one of the world's coffee powerhouses, and Saigon is the hub for the finest quality coffee beans.

Vietnamese coffee captivates taste buds with its rich, uniquely enticing flavor. It’s not just a familiar beverage but also a meaningful gift, expressing appreciation and care.

The price of coffee varies depending on the type and brand, from affordable options to premium products, catering to a diverse range of consumer needs.

Saigon is the hub for the finest quality coffee beans. - Photo Source: Freepik

Some places to buy coffee:

• Famous coffee shops in Saigon.
• Specialty coffee stores.
• Supermarkets.
• Traditional markets.

Notes:

• Choose to buy coffee at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Research different types of coffee to choose one that suits your preferences.
• Buy beans or ground coffee, depending on your intended use.

3.8. Tea - A refined and elegant beverage

Tea, a beverage deeply rooted in Asian culture, has become an indispensable part of the Vietnamese spirit. In Saigon, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a myriad of fine teas, from traditional green tea to unique herbal teas.

The delicate, refined flavor of Vietnamese tea not only soothes the soul but also makes a meaningful gift, expressing sophistication and appreciation.

The price of tea varies widely, depending on the variety and brand, from affordable options to premium teas.

Tea is one of the famous specialties of Vietnam. - Photo Source: Freepik

Some places to buy tea:

• Tea shops.
• Supermarkets.
• Traditional markets.
• Specialty stores.

Notes:

• Choose to buy tea at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Research different types of tea to choose one that suits your preferences.
• Learn how to brew tea correctly.

3.9. Marou Chocolate - "Luxury" flavors from Vietnam

Marou proudly stands as Vietnam's premium artisanal chocolate brand, renowned for using carefully selected cacao beans.

Marou chocolate captivates connoisseurs with its rich, sophisticated flavor and elegant, eye-catching packaging. With superior quality, Marou chocolate is a classy gift, expressing the giver's appreciation and sincerity.

Due to the use of premium ingredients and meticulous production processes, Marou chocolate is often priced higher than regular chocolate. The price of the product varies depending on the product form and ingredient composition.

Marou Chocolate is a famous and premium chocolate brand of Vietnam. - Photo Source: Marou Chocolate

Some places to buy Marou chocolate:

• Marou chocolate shops.
• Premium supermarkets.
• Specialty stores.
• Online shopping platforms.

Notes:

• Choose to buy Marou chocolate at reputable stores to ensure quality.
• Research different types of Marou chocolate to choose one that suits your preferences.
• Store chocolate at the appropriate temperature.

4. Top 3 Souvenirs to Cherish Saigon Memories

The small and lovely souvenirs below will help you carry memorable moments of this dynamic city.

4.1. Non La (Conical Hat) - A distinctive symbol of Vietnam

The conical hat is not only an essential item in daily life but also a unique cultural symbol of Vietnam, associated with the graceful and gentle beauty of Vietnamese women.

In addition to its function as sun and rain protection, the conical hat is also a traditional souvenir, carrying profound cultural value.

The price of conical hats varies depending on the material type, size, and product craftsmanship, from affordable hats to premium ones.

The conical hat is an indispensable souvenir when visiting Saigon - Photo Source: Freepik

Some places to buy conical hats:

• Ben Thanh Market.
• Souvenir shops.
• Roadside stalls.

Notes:

• Choose conical hats made from good materials with sturdy stitching.
• Consider hats that are painted or decorated for added uniqueness.

4.2. Cute and Convenient Keychains

Keychains are compact, convenient, and popular souvenirs. They come in many different styles and designs, from iconic Saigon images to cute and adorable ones.

Keychains can be attached to keys, bags, or backpacks, easily evoking fond memories of Saigon.

The price of keychains is very affordable, ranging from a few thousand to a few tens of thousands of Vietnamese dong.

You can buy keychains as souvenirs. - Photo Source: Pexels

Some places to buy keychains:

• Ben Thanh Market.
• Souvenir shops.
• Roadside stalls.
• Supermarkets.

Note:

• Choose keychains made from good, durable materials.
• Consider keychains with iconic Saigon images for added uniqueness.

4.3. Postcards to Share Love

Postcards often feature beautiful images of Saigon, from ancient architectural works to natural scenic views.

Postcards are meaningful souvenirs, helping you share beautiful moments of Saigon with relatives and friends.

The price of postcards is very affordable, ranging from a few thousand to a few tens of thousands of Vietnamese dong.

Postcards are meaningful souvenirs that you can give to loved ones after returning from Saigon. - Photo Source: Pexels

Some places to buy postcards:

• Souvenir shops.
• Post offices.
• Bookstores.
• Roadside stalls.

Notes:

• Choose postcards with beautiful images and good quality.
• Consider writing meaningful wishes on postcards for added value.

5. Shopping Tips in Saigon

While there are many things to explore and discover regarding what to do in vietnam ho chi minh, shopping is a significant part of the experience. For an enjoyable and effective shopping trip in Saigon, consider the following tips:

• When shopping in Saigon, choosing the right location will provide different experiences: shopping centers offer diverse, high-quality goods with clearly listed prices; traditional markets provide a wide range of affordable options and bargaining opportunities; while specialty stores offer unique and high-quality items."
• At traditional markets, you can bargain for better prices. Research prices before buying and don't hesitate to offer a lower price.
• Before buying, carefully check the quality, style, color, size, etc., of the goods to ensure you get the desired product.
• In crowded places such as markets and shopping areas, be careful with personal belongings to avoid pickpocketing or theft.
• Carry cash, credit cards, and e-payment apps for flexible payment options.
• Consider shopping in the morning when stores are less crowded, giving you more time to browse and bargain.

Visitors can keep memories of Saigon through souvenirs. - Photo Source: Joytime

With over 20 souvenir suggestions in this article, we hope you find the perfect gifts to give to relatives and friends or simply to keep beautiful memories of Saigon.

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With meticulously designed tours that capture the essence of local culture, along with dedicated service and reasonable prices, Joytime is committed to providing you with unique and memorable experiences in Vietnam's most dynamic city. Contact Joytime today for enthusiastic advice and to plan your memorable trip!

Discover the best souvenirs to buy in Saigon and explore our guide to find the perfect gifts for friends and family, along with tips on where to buy them.