Shopping in Vietnam

Where to Shop and What to Buy in Vietnam

Many tourists can’t help but dive headfirst into shopping when visiting Vietnam. Why? The wide variety of high-quality goods and their tempting prices are hard to resist. For many budget travelers, Vietnam is nothing short of a shopping paradise, where prices can often be bargained down to as little as one-third of the original cost.

The list of Vietnamese bargains is seemingly endless — from bespoke tailoring and the elegant ao dai made of premium silk to a vast range of fabrics and textiles. Visitors also find themselves captivated by Vietnam’s charming handicrafts, unique artworks, and beautifully crafted jewelry.

The Best Places to Shop in Ho Chi Minh City

Shopping in Ho Chi Minh City is truly one of the highlights of this vibrant destination. Modern shopping malls are springing up all over downtown Saigon, bringing with them international fashion brands that delight even the most discerning fashion lovers. Yet, what makes shopping in this city so special is the sheer variety of experiences and one-of-a-kind finds available everywhere.

Boutique fashion is more prominent here than almost anywhere else in Southeast Asia, offering custom-made pieces at just a fraction of their usual cost. Meanwhile, the city’s bustling markets remain a must-visit, playing a vital role in the daily lives of locals and offering visitors a truly unforgettable shopping experience.

Ben Thanh Market

Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 1 is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, branded goods, Vietnamese art, and other souvenirs. Inside, you’ll find plenty of food stalls where you can sample hawker-style Vietnamese cuisine or simply cool off with a cold drink when the bargaining gets too intense.

The market is large, sometimes tricky to navigate, and best avoided during the hottest hours of the day—but it’s still well worth a visit. When night falls, restaurants around the perimeter open their doors, creating a vibrant streetside scene filled with the aromas of wok-fried noodles, barbecued fish, and grilled meats. One of Saigon’s oldest landmarks, Ben Thanh offers an atmosphere that is authentic, lively, and unmistakably Vietnamese.

Save your appetite and head to Ben Thanh Market in the evening, where you can enjoy authentic street-style local food at one of the twenty or so eateries surrounding the market. Chefs cook right in front of you, offering an endless variety of dishes such as vegetarian noodles, fresh seafood, crispy rice pancakes, and steamed cakes. You’ll be in great local company, as most of these places are packed with residents enjoying a quick meal and drink on their way home from work.

For a true shopping heaven, visit the market early in the morning to pick up bargains on lacquerware, bamboo goods, and arts and crafts. Also on sale are clothes, textiles, luggage, watches, and an assortment of electronic items. Spices, nuts, and local fruits scent the air, mingling with the cheerful chatter of locals and tourists haggling for deals. Do note, however, that some items are sold at strictly fixed prices.

Ben Thanh Market is situated in District 1, in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, at the intersection of Le Loi, Ham Nghi, Tan Hung, and Le Lai streets. Shops close in the late afternoon, so shopping is best done in the morning before the heat of the day sets in.

The market is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most famous landmarks and is known by all taxi drivers. If you are staying downtown, check first to see if you can walk to it from your hotel, as it’s very centrally located.

• Opening Hours: Daily 6:00 –24:00
• Address: Le Loi, Ben Thanh Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Tel: +84 83 521 0004

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Vincom Center

With more than 250 shops, Vincom Center is Ho Chi Minh City’s biggest shopping mall – so big, in fact, that it has been divided into two buildings located just across the street from each other. Vincom Center A (currently Union Square) is housed in a delightful French-styled period building connected to The Continental Hotel, while Vincom Center B (currently Vincom Center) is just behind it, occupying the first five storeys of a modern, glass-fronted skyscraper.

If you are looking for international products, this should be your first stop, as most international luxury brands have their flagship stores right in the tourist heart of the city. There are also several restaurants and cafes serving food from various regions, including many international franchises.

Union Square (formerly Vincom Center A)

Union Square is a luxury mall that offers a new shopping experience across six curated floors, setting a world-class standard right in the heart of Saigon. Vietnamese and international guests to the mall enjoy a selection of the best international brands, ranging from premium to luxury, each visit is unique.

Also home to delicious cafés and restaurants, Union Square’s collection of eateries appeals to a variety of senses. Saigon’s first metro line will connect to the shopping mall, providing seamless access for businesspeople, tourists, and locals, alike.

Vincom Center (formerly Vincom Center B)

Just a quick hop across Dong Khoi Street is Vincom Center B (currently Vincom Center). From the exterior, it couldn’t look more different. Instead of ornate French arches, it features a sleek glass frontage rising 26 storeys high. However, once inside, the shopping experience is quite similar, with Jimmy Choo, DKNY, Charles & Keith, and a host of jewellery and perfume shops. This shopping mall is a little easier to navigate, as it is built around a central bank of elevators, allowing shoppers to see what’s on the floors above and below. On the basement floor of Vincom B, there’s an excellent food court featuring Buds Ice Cream, Carl’s Jr. burgers, Seoul Garden, and many other international offerings.

Union Square: 171 Dong Khoi Street, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Vincom Center: 72 Le Thanh Ton Street, Saigon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Opening Hours: 09:00 – 22:00
• Tel: (+84 8) 3936 9999

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Binh Tay Market (Cholon Chinatown Market)

Binh Tay Market, constructed by the French in the 1880s, is located in the center of Vietnam’s largest Chinatown district. Unlike Ben Thanh Market in District 1, this market mainly serves the local population with its extensive range of fresh fruits, vegetables, poultry, meat, and seafood from regions across Vietnam.

Also known as Cholon Chinatown Market, Binh Tay Market occupies a two-storey building along Thap Muoi Street. Travelers can also find an assortment of handicrafts, lacquerware, and textiles that are sold in bulk, though the range of goods is not as varied as in other (more touristy) markets in downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Along with the interesting historical and cultural aspects of Cholon, Binh Tay Market is great for experiencing the local lifestyle and sampling unique Vietnamese-Chinese delicacies.

A popular breakfast spot among locals, there are plenty of food stalls selling Vietnamese staples in the market, including pho noodles, goi cuon (spring rolls), and com tam (broken rice), as well as Chinese-influenced delicacies such as banh bao — steamed buns filled with pork or chicken, onions, eggs, mushrooms, and vegetables. A courtyard is set in the middle of the marketplace, where you can find a stone altar commemorating Guangdong-born philanthropist Quach Dam.

Binh Tay Market is accessible within a 15-minute xe om (motorcycle taxi) ride from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. The best time to visit is in the morning, as that’s when the locals come for breakfast and shop for fresh produce and household supplies.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 17:00
• Address: 57A Thap Muoi, Binh Tay Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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Saigon Square

Anyone looking for bargains while in Saigon should head to Saigon Square on the corner of Nam Ky Khoi Nghia and Le Loi Streets in District 1. This shopping arcade is packed with stalls on two levels selling fashion, accessories, and jewellery. Be aware of forgeries though, and remember the old adage: if it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

Even though it’s always bustling with shoppers, Saigon Square is air-conditioned and under cover, so it is far more pleasant than shopping in the nearby Ben Thanh Market, and it’s generally accepted that prices are far better here.

Shops and stalls in Saigon Square are seemingly placed haphazardly around the mall, so the best thing to do is just stroll along the aisles looking for something that takes your fancy. Bargaining is expected here, and as it is so close to the tourist heart of Ho Chi Minh City, prices are initially inflated. If there is something you have your eye on, shop around and enquire about prices, as it is fairly easy to find different shops selling similar items. Just consider what you would be willing to pay for an item and bargain accordingly.

As well as the main branch on Le Loi Street, there is a second branch on Ton Duc Thang Street, close to the river. The setup is much the same here, although it is smaller and a little more dated. It must be said that men’s fashion is a little underrepresented at both Saigon Square Shopping Malls, but for women looking for discount fashion in Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon Square should be your first destination.

• Opening Hours: 08:00 – 22:00
• Location: Corner of Nam Ky Khoi Nghia and Le Loi, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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Diamond Plaza

Diamond Plaza is a beautifully renovated department store in central Ho Chi Minh City, surrounded by many of the city’s most attractive sites, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, Saigon Post Office, and April 30th Park – a charming open space with tall trees and greenery. The department store is housed in a colonial-style building, with an attractive glass-fronted office tower rising up into the sky just behind the shopping complex.

There are many reasons to visit Diamond Plaza, not least for the world-class shopping: cosmetics, perfumes, watches, and jewellery occupy the first floor; both men’s and women’s wear are found on the second, including formal attire and major sports brands. On the third floor, visitors will find a convenient selection of electronic products and mobile phones.

Another main reason to visit Diamond Plaza is its family entertainment options, such as the large bowling alley and video arcade on the fourth floor. The Diamond Cinema, located on the 13th floor, is another popular attraction.

Superbowl Vietnam is modern and colourful, with all the flashing lights and loud clatter of pins common in bowling alleys across the world. The 32 lanes at Diamond Superbowl ensure there is almost always an alley available, though it might be worth booking on weekend evenings. Prices per hour of bowling range significantly between weekday mornings (200,000 VND) and weekends after 19:00 (375,000 VND).

Diamond Cinema shows all the major Hollywood blockbusters, and although it only has six screens, it’s a very convenient location if you are looking for a cinema in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Movies are played in English with Vietnamese subtitles, and prices are generally much lower than in most Western countries. A single ticket costs around 90,000 VND (US$4).

• Opening Hours: 09:30 – 22:30 (Superbowl and Cinema open until 01:00)
• Address: 34 Le Duan Street, Sai Gon Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
• Tel: (+84 8) 3825 7750

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An Dong Market (Craft Market)

An Dong Market in Ho Chi Minh City houses a variety of fashion wholesalers and handicraft stalls. Located in District 5, this indoor market opens daily from 08:00 to 14:00. The market is divided into four levels, where fashion enthusiasts can find an extensive collection of clothing, textiles, shoes, handbags, and accessories on the first two floors. The top floor is dedicated to quality handicrafts and trinkets made by skilled local artisans.

What to Buy at An Dong Market Ho Chi Minh City

Some of the most popular goods at An Dong Market include woodwork, lacquerware, and knitwear. You can also find jewellery made with gemstones such as amethyst and jade. However, it can be hard to confirm their authenticity, so choosing handicrafts is a safer option if you’re unsure.

The ground floor of the market has several stalls selling bulk foods, traditional snacks, and desserts for less than US$1. There’s also a food court where you can enjoy dishes such as pho, banh xeo (savoury crepes), goi cuon (spring rolls), and mi quang (turmeric noodles) throughout the day.

Even though items sold here are much cheaper than at Ho Chi Minh City’s more renowned markets, you can still haggle for lower prices. Start by offering about 50% below the asking price, then bargain with the vendor until you reach an agreement.

• Opening Hours: Daily 07:00 – 18:00
• Location: 34 – 36 An Duong Vuong Street, An Dong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

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The Best Places to Shop in Hanoi

Shopping in Hanoi is best known for its traditional markets and narrow shophouses, but there is a growing number of trendy boutiques and shopping malls offering a wide range of international brands, as well as dining and entertainment options. The best thing about shopping in Hanoi is that you can do it all on foot, with many streets dedicated to specific trades.

This is particularly true in the Old Quarter, where Silk Street and Silver Street still retain their traditional trades after centuries of history. Whether you are looking for quirky souvenirs such as Vietnamese farming hats or a handmade silk evening gown, we have compiled a list of great places to shop in Hanoi.

Hang Gai Street (Silk Street)

Hang Gai Street is the best place in Hanoi to shop for high-quality, fashionable silk materials, traditional Vietnamese apparel, and home furnishings. Also known as Silk Street, this 300-metre-long road is lined with fashion boutiques and local tailor shops that have been operating for decades. Here, you can order personally tailored suits and dresses made to measure.

Set on the edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter near Hoan Kiem Lake, Silk Street is renowned for its quality and variety of craftsmen, though two of our absolute favourites on Hang Gai Street are Khai Silk and Tan My Design, which both offer ready-to-wear pieces – perfect if you’re too pressed for time to get a tailor-made outfit during your holiday in Hanoi. Suits can be ready within 24 hours, though it’s best to allow more time for a second fitting to make sure that your outfit is perfectly tailored.

Most stores on Hang Gai Street accept payment by credit card, and it pays to go to a higher-quality store and avoid the market street traders to guarantee the best silk. As with most retail outlets all over Vietnam, bargaining is also highly encouraged to get a decent price – start at 50% off the asking price and pay no more than 70%.

Aside from boutiques and tailor shops, Hang Gai Street also hosts a number of souvenir shops selling notebooks, lamps, and postcards, as well as prominent art galleries such as Thang Long Art Gallery and Green Palm Gallery.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 20:00
• Address: Hang Gai Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi City, Vietnam

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Hanoi Weekend Night Market

Held every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the Hanoi Weekend Night Market is a lively, bustling collection of roadside stalls and local food vendors that attract huge crowds of both locals and tourists. It stretches through the Old Quarter from 7:00 p.m. onwards, starting at Hang Dao Street and extending north to the edge of Dong Xuan Market.

Pedestrian streets and historical sites in the area are illuminated with decorative lights, making it a popular spot for travel photographers. In terms of shopping, the fashion items on sale won’t turn many heads, as you’ll find the usual array of inexpensive T-shirts, handicrafts, accessories, shoes, sunglasses, and souvenirs at the Hanoi Weekend Night Market. However, the overall atmosphere is very lively, and bargaining is a way of life here — a good rule of thumb is to start by offering about 75 percent of the asking price.

With prices starting at VND 15,000, visitors can also sample plenty of iconic Hanoi dishes while strolling through the busy night market, including bun thang (rice vermicelli soup with shredded chicken, fried egg, and pork), Cha Ca La Vong (grilled fish with dill and turmeric), pho (noodle soup with beef or chicken), banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich), and bun cha (rice noodles served with grilled pork).

The Hanoi Weekend Night Market also features cultural performances, where locals in traditional costumes play Vietnamese folk music as well as classical tunes. As with all busy markets, be mindful of your belongings and keep your wits about you, as the throng of motorbikes and people can be intense.

• Opening Hours: Friday – Sunday 19:00 – 23:00
• Address: Hang Dao Street, Old Quarter, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Dong Xuan Market

Established in 1889, Dong Xuan Market is housed in a four-storey Soviet-style building on the northern edge of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. It is also known as Hanoi’s largest indoor market, offering a wide range of goods such as fresh produce, souvenirs, accessories, clothing, electronics, and household appliances.

Similar to most markets in Southeast Asia, Dong Xuan Market has a bustling wet market section on the ground floor, where locals shop for seafood, meat, and vegetables. The back section sells an array of pets (cats, dogs, and fish) and fresh flowers from all across Vietnam. If you’re looking for souvenirs, head to the upper levels, where you can find numerous stalls selling T-shirts, fabrics, school uniforms, handbags, and handicrafts, all offered at wholesale prices.

There’s also a large dining area within Dong Xuan Market, where food vendors sell Vietnamese coffee and exotic local dishes for as little as VND 15,000. Highly recommended dishes include tiet canh (duck blood soup), fried frog, bun cha (grilled pork with noodles), and banh cuon (steamed rice rolls).

Surrounding Dong Xuan Market are many more shops where you can purchase traditional Dong Ho drawings, Bat Trang ceramics, Binh Da embroidered and lace products, and sand paintings. Located within walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience local life — you might even leave with a pair of cheap sunglasses and a Vietnamese conical hat.

• Opening Hours: Daily 06:00 – 19:00
• Address: Old Quarter, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi City, Vietnam

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Lotte Center Hanoi

Lotte Center Hanoi features a wide selection of about 250 fashion and lifestyle brands. This one-stop shopping destination also offers plenty of entertainment and dining options, so you could easily spend half a day here. The 65-story building can be reached from Hoan Kiem Lake by car in about 20 minutes. This high-rise building, which houses the Lotte Shopping Center Hanoi, is also home to a hypermarket, a hotel, residential apartments, restaurants, a gym, a spa, and the city’s finest observation deck.

On the first floor, you’ll find the hypermarket. The second floor features imported fashion, watches, jewelry, and cosmetics. The third floor houses women’s fashion, shoes, handbags, and young cosmetics. The fourth floor offers young casual wear, jeans and unisex clothing, lingerie, and casual watches. On the fifth floor, you’ll find men’s fashion, sports, and golf wear, while home appliances and furnishings are located on the sixth floor. The Observation Deck on the 65th floor offers amazing photo opportunities with stunning panoramic views of Hanoi.

• Opening Hours: 09:00 – 22:30
• Address: 54 Lieu Giai, Giang Vo Ward, Hanoi City, Vietnam
• Tel: +84 4 3333 6000

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Trang Tien Plaza

Trang Tien Plaza is a high-end shopping mall that houses many world-renowned international brands such as Bvlgari, Dior, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton. Originally built in 1901 in the French colonial style, it was renovated to its current appearance in 2013. As one of the oldest shopping centres in Hanoi, it occupies a prime corner next to Hoan Kiem Lake and is easily accessible from the Old Quarter within a five- to ten-minute walk. The building is considered an icon for its rich history and elegant architectural design.

Trang Tien Plaza has six floors offering a wide variety of goods. The first floor features luxury fashion stores, the second floor includes fashion and mobile phone outlets, the third floor offers household equipment, the fourth floor houses a supermarket and grocery retailers, while the fifth and sixth floors are dedicated to offices and restaurants.

• Opening Hours: Mon-Fri 09:30-21:30 and Sat-Sun 9:30-22:00
• Location: 24 Hai Ba Trung Street, Cua Nam Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Hang Bac Street (Silver Street)

Hang Bac Street has been synonymous with jewellery (“Bac” means silver in Vietnamese) for hundreds of years. This small, atmospheric street still retains many tiny jewellery outlets selling rings, necklaces, and other affordable fashion items. There isn’t one particular shop to check out; instead, take a stroll from one end to the other and explore the jewellers, handicrafts, and propaganda poster shops dotted along the street. To reach Hang Bac, start from the Water Puppet Theatre on the northern side of Hoan Kiem Lake and walk up Hang Be Street until you reach a T-junction.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00
• Address: Hang Bac Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Nha Tho Street (Church Street)

Nha Tho Street is located in front of St. Joseph’s Cathedral and is packed with small fashion stores and excellent restaurants, despite being only 100 metres in length. It is very popular with the sophisticated set of Hanoi’s middle class and expat community. In particular, Things of Substance is a charming Australian-run shop selling Vietnamese-style fashion and fabrics in Western sizes, while Mu Accessories is a boutique offering apparel and fashion items in a range of bold colours.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00
• Address: Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam

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Hang Da Market

Hang Da Market, located in the heart of Hanoi’s central business district, is a three-storey shopping mall that houses an eclectic array of stalls. Smaller than Dong Xuan Market and offering a more selective range of products, this is the place to find imported wine, flowers, second-hand clothes, and fabrics.

The outside of the building is picturesque, with its white, multi-perforated façade, and it’s expected that the interior may one day be transformed from market stalls into boutique outlets. Hang Da Market is a great place to pick up unique clothing items such as skirts, dresses, and coats. Some of the best buys are stylish second-hand clothes, most of which are in excellent condition.

The market is best visited early in the morning when traders are unpacking for the day and best avoided on weekends or during the midday heat. Take a break on the first floor, where you can enjoy some freshly cooked Vietnamese snacks.

Bargaining is not only advised but absolutely expected when shopping at Hang Da. As a rule, start at around 50% of the asking price but avoid accepting anything below 25%. Hang Da Market is located at 1 Hang Da, at the intersection with Yen Thai Street. On the north corner where Hang Da meets Hang Dieu, there is also a large shop lined with bamboo cages filled with exotic birds — worth a look if you’re in the area.

The area was once known as the main stretch for pipe and tobacco sellers, so keep an eye out for the remaining old stores located just north on Hang Dieu Street. Don’t forget to bring a camera — Hang Da is worth a visit just to capture the elegant architecture of the market building.

• Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 – 17:00
• Address: 1 Hang Da Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi City, Vietnam

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The Best Places to Shop in Da Nang

Da Nang’s shopping scene may pale in comparison with its neighbour, Hoi An, but travellers can still find a handful of prominent shopping malls and local markets within the city centre that are worth spending an afternoon exploring. One of the most popular markets in this bustling coastal town is Han Market, which has been serving the locals since the French occupation in the 1940s. There are hundreds of stalls selling local handicrafts, T-shirts, and pre-packaged food items such as Ly Son garlic, rice crackers, and dried squid at attractive prices.

If you prefer to shop for gifts in a more comfortable setting, Lotte Mart Da Nang and Vinh Trung Plaza are our top picks. Da Nang is also easily explored on foot, as the majority of shopping venues are located within close proximity to the city’s prominent landmarks and museums. Read on for our helpful guide on where to shop and what to buy in Da Nang.

Con Market

Con Market is a prominent shopping venue in Da Nang’s city centre, offering over 2,000 stalls selling handicrafts, apparel, and accessories at wholesale prices. Also known as Da Nang Commercial Centre, it is widely regarded as the coastal city’s largest and busiest wholesale shopping venue.

Originally built in the 1940s on elevated ground in the city centre, Con Market was the focal point for farmers and fishermen from Vietnam’s rural districts such as Que Son, Dai Loc, and Thang Binh looking to sell fresh vegetables, seafood, and poultry. After a major renovation in 1984, the market was relocated to a three-storey building on Ong Ich Khiem Street.

You can find fresh produce, dried goods, coffee beans, and plenty of food stalls on the ground floor, while the upper level hosts handicraft and t-shirt vendors, as well as tailoring services. Although goods sold here are considerably cheaper than in most markets in Vietnam, you can still bargain for lower prices — start by asking for about 50–70% off the retail price.

There’s also a wide range of cheap and authentic Vietnamese dishes available, including banh mi (Vietnamese-style baguette), goi cuon (spring rolls), banh xeo (crispy pancake), and mi quang (Vietnamese turmeric noodles). You can expect to pay about VND 30,000 for a filling meal at Con Market.

Con Market is a 10-minute taxi ride from Da Nang International Airport and is just across the street from Vinh Trung Plaza. Open daily from 08:00 onwards, the market is mostly frequented by locals, especially during evenings and public holidays such as the Tet Festival.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 20:00
• Address: 200 Hung Vuong, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Han Market

Han Market is a significant landmark in Da Nang, having been in operation since the French colonial period in the 1940s. This local market is housed in a two-storey building at the grand intersection of Tran Phu, Bach Dang, Hung Vuong, and Tran Hung Dao Streets, where you can find hundreds of stalls selling an array of local produce, handicrafts, T-shirts, and accessories. It’s very much like a miniature version of the famous Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, and even if you aren’t necessarily looking to buy anything, it still offers a fascinating glimpse into local life in Da Nang.

Han Market’s ground level is where locals shop for fresh vegetables, seafood, and butchered meat in the early morning. Numerous fruit stalls are set up in front of the market, offering tropical fruits such as bananas, mangoes, durian, and jackfruit. These items make ideal souvenirs for loved ones back home, so make sure to stock up on prepacked chilli paste, Ly Son garlic, rice crackers, and dried squid, all of which are available on the same floor.

Han Market’s indoor food court offers just about any Vietnamese dish you can think of, from Mi quang (Vietnamese turmeric noodles) and com tam (broken rice) to banh xeo (crispy pancake) and goi cuon (Vietnamese spring rolls), each costing no more than VND 30,000.

Meanwhile, the upper level is where you can purchase home appliances, souvenirs, cosmetics, and fabrics. Some of Da Nang’s top tailors also set up shop in Han Market, making it a great place to get quality yet affordable custom-made suits and dresses. Conveniently located within a four-minute walk from Da Nang Cathedral, Han Market is open every day, but gets especially packed from 06:00 to 11:00 and again from 16:00 onwards.

• Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 – 19:00
• Address: 119 Tran Phu Street, Hai Chau Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Lotte Mart Da Nang

Lotte Mart Da Nang is hailed as the coastal city’s largest shopping mall, offering a wide range of entertainment, shopping, and dining options for both locals and travellers. The five-storey complex features an extensive selection of cosmetics, electronics, household appliances, apparel, accessories, and footwear from popular international brands such as Samsung, Levi’s, Nike, Magoza, Debor, Sense, Josephi, and The Face Shop. A massive supermarket occupies the fourth floor, while the top level hosts a bowling alley, arcade centre, and skating rink for children and families. Conveniently located on Nai Nam Street, Lotte Mart Da Nang is just a 10-minute taxi ride from Da Nang International Airport.

• Opening Hours: Daily 07:30 – 22:00
• Address: 6 Nai Nam Street, Hoa Cuong Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Non Nuoc Fine Arts Village

Non Nuoc Fine Arts Village comprises over 500 manufacturers, artisan workshops, and retail outlets selling marble goods at affordable prices. Set at the foot of Da Nang’s Marble Mountains, the village dates back to the late 18th century and was founded by Huynh Ba Quat, a craftsman from Thanh Hoa Province.

The village is also recognised as a National Intangible Cultural Heritage for its cultural significance to Da Nang, where thousands of skilled sculptors and craftsmen create a wide range of statues, household items, and accessories from stones found in the mountain.

Many local residents visit this craft village to purchase rice mortars, grain grinders, and tombstones. Tourists, on the other hand, can find an array of handcrafted jewellery made from precious stones, including rings, necklaces, pendants, and bracelets.

Due to its proximity to several ancient pagodas in the Marble Mountains, Non Nuoc Fine Arts Village also features intricate marble sculptures of Buddha, sphinxes, animals, and national icons of various sizes, all skilfully displayed against the mountain backdrop.

Non Nuoc Fine Arts Village is a 20-minute taxi ride from Da Nang City, with most day tours to the Marble Mountains including this ancient village in their itinerary. Even if you aren’t looking to buy anything during your visit, it still offers a fascinating glimpse into how local artisans create such intricate sculptures entirely by hand.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 19:00
• Address: Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, Ngu Hanh Son Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Vinh Trung Plaza

Featuring colonial French architecture and modern facilities, Vinh Trung Plaza houses an expansive supermarket, arcade center, and cinema, along with plenty of dining and retail outlets. The shopping complex is conveniently located within a 10-minute drive of Da Nang International Airport and several prominent attractions, including the Cham Museum, Dragon River Bridge, and My Khe Beach. Shoppers can find clothing, accessories, and shoes from local designers, as well as imported household appliances, books, and fast-food chains such as Lotteria, Highlands Coffee, and KFC.

• Opening Hours: Daily
• Address: 255-257 Hung Vuong Street, Thanh Khe Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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The Best Places to Shop in Hoi An

Hoi An is an exceptionally well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century. Its buildings and street plan reflect both indigenous and foreign influences that have combined to create this unique heritage site. Hoi An has neither an airport nor a train station—the only way to get there is by road. You can hire a taxi from the neighbouring city of Da Nang, which has an airport with daily flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major Vietnamese cities. There’s also a train station in Da Nang, and bus services are plentiful. We offer a wide range of hotels for you to choose from, in both Cua Dai Beach and Hoi An City, to suit every budget and style.

Hoi An Central Market

Sharpen your bargaining skills and head southeast to Hoi An Central Market, one of Vietnam’s best, offering an unmissable shopping experience. Rich in the smells of fragrant herbs and spices and the vibrant colours of Vietnamese silk, the market invites you to delve deep—and you’re guaranteed a bargain. Prices tend to be more inflated at the stalls closest to the entrance, so head right in for the best buys.

There is a vast array of foodstuffs for sale, including spices such as saffron and cinnamon, which make superb purchases. The exotic fresh fruits and vegetables on display are equally tempting. Due to its riverside location, there is also a huge selection of fresh fish available.

The marketplace is renowned for its tailors, who have a section of the market all to themselves. Fine silk tailoring is cheaper here than anywhere else in Hoi An, with garment makers able to run up a dress, shirt, jacket, or full suit—usually within 24 hours. Souvenir and local handicraft hunters will also find plenty to browse through at the Central Market.

Resting on the banks of the Thu Bon River, bustling Hoi An Central Market is certainly worth a look for its authentic slice of Vietnamese life. The market is busy throughout the day with locals bargaining hard alongside tourists, so it’s best to arrive first thing in the morning. The negotiating over fish usually starts around 07:00 as the fishermen drop their catch off and the market vendors and local buyers dive in to get the best fish. Be warned that it can get very messy; nevertheless, it’s certainly a sight not to be missed.

Inside the market, there are also plenty of live ducks and chickens tied together and ready for sale, alongside row upon row of Vietnamese cooking ingredients. The smell can get quite strong as the day heats up, and the market becomes increasingly busy and noisy. If you want to avoid this, then head to the east side, to the large shed-type building that houses the tailors and all manner of Asian silk and textiles.

• Opening Hours: Daily from 06:30. It’s best visited early, starting with a walk by the docks to watch the fish arrive before you enter.
• Location: Nguyen Hue and Tran Phu Street on the Thu Bon River
• Remarks: It’s a good idea to wear closed-toe shoes, as the floor in the market can get damp and sticky, especially in the fish section.

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Hoi An Silk Village

Hoi An Silk Village is a good option for those looking to shop for luxury Vietnamese textiles, handmade lanterns, high-end suits, and dresses. Located two kilometres northwest of Hoi An Ancient Town, the traditional craft village also offers a tranquil getaway. It’s set within the four-star Hoi An Silk Village Resort & Spa and surrounded by numerous mulberry trees, horticulture farms, and lotus ponds.

There are several ancient homes built in traditional Quang Nam architecture, where you can learn about the traditional silk manufacturing process. Currently, there are about 12 local artisans within the village using antique wooden looms to process and weave silk into quality garments, handicrafts, and tapestries.

Hoi An Silk Village’s showroom hosts an extensive collection of silk fabrics, tailored suits, dresses, and jackets. Due to the superior quality of its products, the price range at Hoi An Silk Village is higher than most silk shops in Hoi An, but it’s well worth the extra expense.

Hoi An Silk Village also houses a museum, which features traditional costumes of 54 ethnic groups from all over Vietnam, as well as an onsite restaurant that serves popular regional dishes such as cao lau (turmeric noodles with pork), com ga (chicken rice), and banh xeo.

A short 45-minute tour to Hoi An Silk Village is priced at VND 100,000. During the tour, you can visit all of the ancient houses, the museum, and the mulberry garden. Alternatively, visitors can opt for the extensive four-hour tour for VND 400,000, where they can get a more hands-on experience of harvesting mulberry leaves, feeding silkworms, and distinguishing between real and synthetic silk. Available daily at 09:00 and 14:00, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off services, a welcome mulberry drink, bottled water, lunch or dinner at the Hoi An Silk Village Restaurant, and a local guide.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 21:00
• Address: 28 Nguyen Tat Thanh, Hoi An Tay Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Friendly Shoe Shop Hoi An

Friendly Shoe Shop Hoi An boasts over 10 years of experience in crafting made-to-order shoes featuring both local and international designs. Located along Tran Phu Street, this modest-looking store is just around the corner from Hoi An Central Market. Prices start from USD35, with over 600 models on display ranging from sandals and sports shoes to leather slippers and boots. You can also browse through numerous catalogues or simply look them up online. Unlike most tailor or shoe shops in Vietnam, Friendly Shoe Shop Hoi An offers a full refund if you’re not satisfied with the finished product.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:30 – 20:30
• Address: 18 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Reaching Out Arts and Crafts

Reaching Out Arts and Crafts is a fair-trade gift shop, featuring handmade products crafted by disabled and disadvantaged Vietnamese artisans. Founded by a Vietnamese couple with disabilities, all proceeds from the handicrafts sold go toward retraining and providing employment opportunities for disadvantaged locals in Hoi An. There’s also a tranquil café and garden courtyard where you can enjoy tea, coffee, and local sweets in a peaceful setting. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind clothing, accessories, jewelry, ceramics, lacquerware, stationery, toys, and embroidery, Reaching Out Arts and Crafts is a definite must-visit in Hoi An Ancient Town.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 18:30
• Address: 131 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Lotus Jewellery Hoi An

Lotus Jewellery Hoi An features an extensive collection of quality jewellery designs made with semi-precious stones, pearls, sterling silver, and gold. Set along Le Loi Street, it’s one of the most established local brands in Hoi An, so you’ll be sure to get excellent customer service and value-for-money rings, necklaces, brooches, and bracelets. Most of Lotus Jewellery Hoi An’s handmade pieces are inspired by Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups, with its trademarked lotus flower pendant being the most popular item. Due to its popularity, Lotus Jewellery Hoi An has another outlet located along Tran Phu Street.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 20:00
• Address:

53A Le Loi Street, Hoi An, Da Nang City, Vietnam

82 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Aobaba Hoi An

Aobaba Hoi An is a family-owned tailor shop in Hoi An Ancient Town that has gained massive popularity among travellers for its wide range of fabrics and impeccable tailoring services. You can either choose a design from its up-to-date catalogues or bring a picture of your favourite designer outfit and have it made to measure here. Most suits, dresses, and jackets can be tailored within 24 hours, but if you’re pressed for time, Aobaba Hoi An can deliver your order to your hotel. Set along Tran Phu Street, the tailor shop is just a five-minute walk from the Fujian Assembly Hall.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:00 – 21:00
• Address: 148 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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Metiseko

Metiseko specialises in ready-to-wear women’s apparel, stylish accessories, and eco-friendly homeware, all of which are made with high-quality cotton and silk. Founded in 2011, this retail outlet is set within a yellow-hued heritage building near the Japanese Covered Bridge. The brand combines Vietnamese traditions and landscapes with modern fashion trends, resulting in one-of-a-kind designs that can be worn at any time of day. Priced from USD 16 onwards, all products sold at Metiseko are certified organic, ranging from silk scarves, jumpsuits, and dresses to handmade quilts, keyrings, and cushion covers.

• Opening Hours: Daily 08:30 – 21:30
• Address: 140 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward, Da Nang City, Vietnam

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The Best Places to Shop in Hue

Hue’s shopping scene consists mostly of local markets, art galleries, tailor shops, and boutiques. One of the best cities in Vietnam to purchase authentic handicrafts, a must-buy item here is the Vietnamese nón lá, or conical hat, made of woven palm leaves. The hat has existed almost as long as the country itself and is worn by both men and women across Vietnam. In Hue especially, the hat makers insert poems into the weaves, and the poems can only be seen when the hat is held up to the sunlight, making it even more special.

The city’s local markets are great for experiencing the local lifestyle and sampling Hue dishes. There are also several non-profit organisations and fair-trade outlets where visitors can learn how to make simple handicrafts in workshops as mementos of their trip to Hue. If you’re unsure about what to buy for loved ones back home, this guide includes some of our favourite places to shop in Hue.

Dong Ba Market

Dong Ba Market is the oldest of its kind in Hue, with hundreds of stalls selling household items, handicrafts, clothing, and fresh produce at affordable prices. Located on Tran Hung Dao Street, it occupies a large grey building along the northern bank of the Perfume River. Look out for the large red sign that says ‘Cho Dong Ba’ (which means Dong Ba Market in Vietnamese).

The market opens as early as 3:00 AM to cater to local marketgoers looking to purchase fresh seafood, fruit, and vegetables. Dong Ba Market spans almost 16,000 square metres, with several sections dedicated to fruit, seafood, clothing, meat, and handicrafts. However, many stalls aren’t arranged in an orderly fashion, so you’re likely to see kitchenware being sold next to fresh vegetables during your visit.

The food court is located on the ground floor. There are plenty of food stalls surrounding the dining section, which comprises plastic tables and chairs that can accommodate about 200 people. The best time to visit is between 8:00 and 11:00 AM, as you can enjoy authentic Vietnamese dishes such as pho, banh khoai (Hue-style stuffed omelette), and fresh spring rolls for breakfast.

Dong Ba Market is one of the few shopping venues in Hue, attracting tourists looking to experience the local lifestyle and shop for souvenirs and street food. There’s a bus station near Dong Ba Market, but you can also make your way here via cyclo or motorcycle.

• Opening Hours: Daily 03:00 – 20:00
• Location: 2 Tran Hung Dao Street, Phu Xuan Ward, Hue City, Vietnam

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Gia Huy Silk Hue

Gia Huy Silk Hue is a tailor shop on Pham Ngu Lao Street that’s renowned for its efficient tailoring services and extensive collection of textiles. The staff are very patient and take their craft seriously, making sure that you get exactly what you want in terms of style, size, and material.

You’ll find a variety of local silk, cotton, cashmere, and wool that aren’t available in most tailor shops in Hue. Prices may vary according to length and design, but they are still reasonable as you get to enjoy personalised service and free alterations until you’re happy with the end results.

After taking your measurements, its experienced staff can easily recreate your favourite designer suits, dresses, and jackets within 24 hours. For added assurance, however, we highly recommend bringing pictures for their reference.

You can either collect the finished product from the store or have it delivered to your hotel for free. The tailor shop also offers international shipping via Vietnam Post airmail, which costs between US$15 and US$30. If your orders total above US$300, Gia Huy Silk Hue waives the shipping fees.

Gia Huy Silk Hue opens daily between 10:00 and 22:00. It also keeps your measurements so that you can easily order another outfit online well after your holiday in Hue has ended.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00
• Address: 48 Pham Ngu Lao Street, Hue City, Vietnam

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New Space Art Foundation Hue

New Space Art Foundation Hue is an independent art gallery founded by brothers Le Duc Hai and Le Ngoc Thanh, showcasing their collection of unique folk paintings. Located on Pham Ngu Lao Street, the gallery occupies a two-storey venue with a garden courtyard, lacquer, and photography studios. In an effort to expand the local art scene, New Space Art Foundation Hue also frequently hosts dinner gatherings, communal cooking sessions, and art exhibitions for emerging artists. One of their previous installations, Bowls and Chopsticks, features 1,945 gilded bowls crossed with red chopsticks arranged in lines on the ground to commemorate the two million Vietnamese who perished in the famine between 1944 and 1945.

• Opening Hours: Daily 10:00 – 22:00
• Address: 28 Pham Ngu Lao Street, Hue

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Tay Loc Market

Tay Loc Market caters mostly to locals in Hue, but travellers can find plenty of shopping and snacking opportunities during their visit here. A five-minute drive from Hue Imperial City, you can expect the usual goods sold at any market, such as fresh produce, household items, and clothing. There are also several stalls selling quality souvenirs such as conical hats and wooden carvings, but be sure to bargain hard to get the best price. Tay Loc Market is best visited in the morning (with an empty stomach), as you can savour affordable local delicacies such as banh beo (steamed rice cakes), fresh spring rolls, and Hue beef noodle soup.

• Opening Hours: Daily 06:00 – 22:00
• Address: 209 Nguyen Trai Street, Phu Xuan Ward, Hue City, Vietnam

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The Best Places to Shop in Nha Trang

The shopping outlets in Nha Trang offer a more relaxed and authentic local atmosphere compared to the often overcrowded malls and sleek designer stores in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Street markets such as Vinh Luong Market and Dam Market are great for observing local daily life as well as for purchasing handicrafts, clothing, and jewellery at reasonable prices.

Meanwhile, humble-looking boutiques along the beach offer beautiful artwork and quality clothing, both of which make excellent souvenirs for loved ones back home. Although this coastal town isn’t particularly known for its shopping scene, we’ve compiled a helpful guide on what to buy and where to shop so you can get the best deals during your stay in Nha Trang.

Nha Trang Centre

Nha Trang Centre is well-regarded as the first modern shopping mall in the city, having opened in 2011. Unlike most shopping outlets in this coastal town, this four-storey beachfront complex is fully air-conditioned and houses more than 120 fashion boutiques, a supermarket, entertainment centres, restaurants, and cafés.

Set along the popular Tran Phu Street, it’s a great place to shop for cosmetics, jewellery, shoes, accessories, perfume, sports equipment, and apparel. Catering to an international clientele, renowned brands such as Levi’s, Adidas, Calvin Klein, Samsonite, Revlon, Versace, and Nike are available here. Dining-wise, Nha Trang Centre offers Vietnamese, Japanese, Korean, Italian, and Russian delicacies, as well as fast-food outlets such as KFC and Lotteria.

Visitors can also enjoy a myriad of entertainment options after a day of shopping. Located on the third floor, Sing Sing Karaoke is a stylish karaoke centre with 16 unique rooms equipped with flat-screen televisions, ample microphones, and an extensive collection of popular songs in various languages. Alternatively, visitors can catch the latest Hollywood films at Platinum Cineplex or go bowling, while those with young children will delight in the extensive array of games and kiddie rides within the spacious arcade centre.

Nha Trang Centre also features a stylish rooftop venue, Lunar Lounge, where clubbers can enjoy a wide range of cocktails, wines, beers, spirits, and liqueurs while resident DJs spin electro music until midnight. During special occasions, the bar hosts pool parties, fire dances, and live music performances by renowned Vietnamese artists.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 22:00
• Address: 20 Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang

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Nha Trang Market (Dam Market)

When it comes to street markets in this popular coastal town, Nha Trang Market is hailed as the busiest of its kind. It opens as early as 4 a.m. and stays open until 6 p.m. every day. Local craftsmen, farmers, and fishermen gather here to sell an extensive array of handmade clothes, trinkets, seafood, fresh produce, and packaged goods to both locals and tourists.

Trading since 1974, Nha Trang Market’s bustling atmosphere and colourful array of goods make it a popular spot for travelling photographers and visitors looking to immerse themselves in local culture.

Also known as Dam Market, it is housed in a three-storey building with designated sections that make it easy to navigate. Local souvenir shops are found in the front and middle sections, while meat and fish stalls are located at the back. A staple in any coastal town in Vietnam is dried seafood delicacies, and you can find vacuum-sealed shrimp, seaweed, and cuttlefish on the right side of the building.

You’ll also find numerous stalls selling counterfeit goods such as handbags, watches, sneakers, and branded clothing, though most of them offer similar stock. Bargaining for souvenirs is a must if you want a reasonably fair price — this is generally the case for markets popular with tourists in Vietnam and across Southeast Asia.

Nha Trang Market also hosts numerous food stalls, where you can enjoy popular Vietnamese dishes such as banh cuon (steamed rice rolls), banh xeo (crispy pancake), pho noodles, and bun cha sua (rice vermicelli with fish and jellyfish, a local specialty).

As with any crowded tourist attraction, keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpockets. Still, this lively street market is a fascinating place to experience the vibrant local culture.

Located in Van Thanh, Nha Trang Market is just a 10-minute walk from the Alexandre Yersin Museum via Tran Phu Street. It’s also a five-minute drive from Long Son Pagoda in Nha Trang City.

• Opening Hours: Daily 04:00 – 18:00
• Address: Ben Cho, Van Thanh, Nha Trang

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XQ Hand Embroidery

Located along Tran Phu Street, XQ Hand Embroidery specializes in silk apparel and hand-embroidered portraits. More of a craft centre than a souvenir shop, it is designed to resemble a traditional Vietnamese village house (complete with a garden courtyard), where you can watch artisans in traditional attire working on new pieces. The atmosphere is similar to that of a museum, allowing visitors to wander and browse through the displayed works at their own pace. In addition to ready-made embroideries of landscapes, flowers, animals, and famous figures, you can also have your own portrait embroidered here.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 22:00
• Address: 64 Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang

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Vinh Luong Market

Located near Nha Trang Port, Vinh Luong Market offers an authentic shopping experience where fishermen sell their fresh catch of the day to locals and seafood restaurant owners. Surrounded by numerous fishing villages, this renowned street market has the most extensive variety of freshly caught fish and shellfish in Nha Trang.

A 20-minute drive from Nha Trang City, Vinh Luong Market is great for experiencing the local culture as it is always bustling with residents shopping for fresh seafood, meat, vegetables, and household supplies. You can also find several stalls selling counterfeit goods, local handicrafts, and trinkets at reasonable prices.

Don’t be surprised to see a few late-night stragglers – or early-morning risers – shuffling around the market too; several of the hawker stalls here open as early as 05:00, selling affordable street food that’s perfect for breakfast. Must-tries include spring rolls, bun cha sua (rice vermicelli with jellyfish and steamed sailfish fillet in fish broth), banh xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), and nem nuong (grilled fermented pork rolls).

Best of all, items sold at Vinh Luong Market are much cheaper compared to the more touristy markets in Nha Trang. Bargaining is still allowed, though some vendors might get offended if you offer unreasonably low prices.

• Opening Hours: Daily 04:00 – 18:00
• Address: 1A National Road, Luong Son, Vinh Luong, Nha Trang

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Saigon Pearls

Saigon Pearls offers authentic jewellery made with locally cultivated pearls from Nha Trang’s Van Phong Bay. Hailed as the best place in Vietnam for quality pearls, there are several showrooms around the city, including Nha Trang Centre and Hung Vuong. Prices start from VND 3,000,000, and available creations include necklaces, bracelets, pendants, earrings, and rings. You can also find a collection of accessories featuring gold and colourful gemstones.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 22:00
• Address: 150 Hung Vuong, Nha Trang

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The Best Places to Shop in Mui Ne – Phan Thiet

Mui Ne and Phan Thiet’s shopping scene mostly consists of boutique outlets selling handicrafts such as embroidery, paintings, lacquerware, blankets, scarves, handbags, and ceramics. Many feature designs inspired by the ancient Cham style, making them unique gifts for loved ones back home.

Open from dawn onwards, the local markets are must-visits for travellers looking to experience the local lifestyle, stock up on fresh fruit and vegetables, and sample Vietnamese dishes such as fish pho, banh xeo, and spring rolls. For a more relaxed shopping experience, read on to discover where to shop and what to buy in Mui Ne and Phan Thiet.

Phan Thiet Central Market

Phan Thiet Central Market is the largest of its kind in Mui Ne, hosting hundreds of stalls selling household items, fresh produce, and local delicacies every day. This outdoor market is at its busiest at dawn, with huge crowds haggling with vendors for an array of fresh fruits, spices, nuts, meat, dried foodstuffs, and household supplies.

As Mui Ne is renowned for its traditional fishing villages, you’ll find just about any kind of fresh and cheap seafood here, from shrimp, squid, and fish to snails, clams, and crabs. The market is also a good place to enjoy authentic Vietnamese delicacies at very low prices, including banh xeo (crispy pancake), mi quang (turmeric noodles), and goi cuon (fresh spring rolls).

If you’re looking to purchase souvenirs for loved ones back home during your visit to Phan Thiet Central Market, we highly recommend picking up quintessential items such as nuoc mam cham (fermented fish dipping sauce), ceramic goods, coconut candies, and intricate Cham textiles. As with most markets in Southeast Asia, make sure you bargain hard to get the best deals — a good starting point is around 75% off the retail price.

Located at the intersection between Ly Thuong Kiet and Nguyen Hue Streets, this outdoor market is a must-visit for travellers looking to experience the daily lives of the local population. It can get rather humid during the summer, so wearing comfortable clothing is a must when visiting Phan Thiet Central Market.

• Opening Hours: Daily 05:00 – 18:00
• Location: The intersection between Ly Thuong Kiet and Nguyen Hue Streets, Phan Thiet

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Mui Ne Handicraft

Mui Ne Handicraft offers a wide selection of beautiful mementos made by disadvantaged locals. Opened in 2008, the shop also features a humble-looking workshop where visitors can observe children with hearing impairments learning how to sew and paint, while others create handmade clothes, blankets, jewellery, and bags using traditional looms.

You can shop for textiles woven in traditional Cham patterns and even have a local tailor make a custom outfit at affordable prices. For something unique, we highly recommend picking up sand paintings or hand-embroidered artworks depicting life in Mui Ne. Best of all, profits from the goods sold at Mui Ne Handicraft are returned to the local artisans who made them.

Just a five-minute drive from Ham Tien Market, this fair-trade shop is also directly connected to Java Restaurant, where visitors can enjoy authentic Vietnamese and Chinese cuisine for lunch, as well as fresh seafood and Western fare for dinner.

• Opening Hours: Daily 07:00 – 23:00
• Address: 152 Huynh Thuc Khang, Phan Thiet – Mui Ne

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The Best Places to Shop in Vung Tau

Vung Tau Market

Built in 1985, this market offers a wide range of goods, from fresh produce to household items. It’s where most locals go to buy fresh ingredients for their daily meals. Many visitors love exploring the market to shop for local handicrafts, as well as to learn more about tropical vegetables and in-season fruits, including durian, mangosteen, and rambutan.

• Location: Vung Tau City Centre

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Vung Tau Co.op Mart

This newly opened mart is part of the nation’s leading supermarket chain. It sells a wide range of household goods and more, and is usually quite busy on weekends.

• Location: 36 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Tam Thang Ward, Ho Chi Minh City

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Surfing and Kitesurfing Equipment

If you need surfing or kitesurfing equipment while in Vung Tau, stop by Surf Pirate. They also offer kitesurfing lessons. Run by the same team as Vung Tau Beach Club, this is a convenient place to enjoy good food and free Wi-Fi.

• Location: At the Back Beach, opposite Sammy Hotel
• Tel: +84 (64) 526 101

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The Best Places to Shop in Phu Quoc

Shopping on Phu Quoc Island mostly comes in the form of street markets and quaint boutiques, where you can find not only fresh produce and pre-packaged condiments but also locally farmed pearls and unique handicrafts. Great for experiencing the local culture, Dinh Cau Night Market and Duong Dong Market are often packed with vendors and shoppers bargaining hard for all kinds of goods, especially for freshly caught seafood and household items from mainland Vietnam.

Visitors can also sample authentic Vietnamese dishes and fresh seafood at affordable prices, as well as stock up on locally produced items such as pre-packaged mushrooms, fish sauce, pepper, and cashew nuts. Read on for our guide on where to shop and what to buy on Phu Quoc Island.

Dinh Cau Night Market

Dinh Cau Night Market is a must-visit for travellers on Phu Quoc Island, offering a plethora of dining and shopping opportunities until late. Located along Vo Thi Sau Street in Duong Dong, this pedestrian-friendly market is about a five-minute walk from Dinh Cau Rock. This Phu Quoc market mainly caters to tourists but remains lively and bustling.

Visitors can find about 100 stalls, more than half of which sell fresh seafood, street snacks, and beverages at affordable prices. Live fish, sea snails, crabs, and scallops are kept in large tanks with prices listed on the board in front of every booth. To order, simply choose what you like before taking a seat at the makeshift dining area.

Highly recommended dishes include grilled scallops, steamed squid with fermented fish sauce, boiled sea snails, flower crab with rice noodles, and deep-fried shrimps. As for drinks, there’s a good selection of fresh juices, smoothies, soft drinks, local wines, and beers. Prices are slightly higher than in an average local restaurant on Phu Quoc, but the seafood is generally very fresh.

If you’re looking to purchase souvenirs for loved ones back home, walk further along the street to find a number of booths selling T-shirts, slippers, jewellery, and handicrafts. You may find some claiming to sell authentic pearl rings and necklaces, but most of the time these are actually counterfeit items. Prepacked snacks such as Phu Quoc’s fermented fish sauce, dried seaweed, black pepper, and cashew nuts make ideal gifts as well.

For the safety of its many visitors, Dinh Cau Night Market is closed off to motorised vehicles from 17:00 onwards, with parking available just outside the main entrance for VND 10,000.

• Opening Hours: Daily 17:00 – 24:00
• Address: Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, An Giang Province

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Duong Dong Market

Duong Dong Market is Phu Quoc Island’s busiest and largest outdoor market, where travellers can experience the local lifestyle and purchase a wide range of fresh produce while on holiday.

Set along Tran Phu Street, Duong Dong Market features a wet zone located close to Duong Dong Port, where you can see throngs of fishing boats drop off freshly caught seafood such as eel, squid, mackerel, barracuda, and shellfish to be sold by local vendors.

In addition, Phu Quoc Island is renowned for its fish sauce, mushrooms, peppers, and cashew nuts. We highly recommend making your way to the dry section to pick up a few as souvenirs for loved ones back home. Thanks to its growing popularity among tourists, there are also a few stalls selling handicrafts and t-shirts, though most carry the same goods.

Like most Asian markets, Duong Dong Market houses plenty of food stalls serving fruit juices and Vietnamese cuisine at relatively low prices. Must-tries include banh tet (Vietnamese cylindrical sticky rice cake), echinus porridge, and raw herring salad. The best time to visit is in the early morning, when you can see the locals bargaining hard for household items, fresh and dried seafood, meats, sweets, and fruit from mainland Vietnam.

• Opening Hours: Daily 07:00 – 21:00
• Address: Tran Phu Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, An Giang Province

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Phu Quoc Pearl Farm (Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm)

Phu Quoc Pearl Farm was founded in 1998 by a New Zealand-based company called Treasures from the Deep, and it offers visitors a chance to learn about pearl farming and purchase quality jewellery.

Locally known as Ngoc Hien Pearl Farm, it spans 6,000 square meters, featuring cultivation pools, a spacious showroom and a retail outlet selling high-end pearl rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets priced from VND 3,000,000.

Situated along the west coast of Phu Quoc Island, Phu Quoc Pearl Farm is only a 10-minute drive from Duong Dong.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00
• Address: Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc, An Giang Province

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The Green Boutique Phu Quoc

The Green Boutique Phu Quoc is a home-grown beauty brand renowned for offering a wide range of skincare and haircare products, all of which are handmade with natural ingredients. Located in a rustic-looking hut on Tran Hung Dao Street, this boutique is just a 15-minute walk from Sung Hung Pagoda.

Beautifully displayed on wooden shelves, you’ll find aromatherapy oils, body lotions and scrubs, soaps, massage oils, sunblock, hair masks, and shampoos.

Ideal for those with sensitive skin, products sold at The Green Boutique Phu Quoc contain no preservatives or additives. Essential oils such as coconut oil, lavender, and rosemary are imported, while sea salt, sugar, and powdered potato, pumpkin, and soybean are locally sourced.

If you have a specific skin type or are allergic to certain ingredients, the friendly English-speaking owner can easily create customized products to suit your needs. Prices may seem steep to some (expect to pay about US$10 for a 100ml custom-made facial or body cream), but the quality you get is well worth the price.

• Opening Hours: Daily 09:00 – 21:00
• Address: 92 Tran Hung Dao, Duong Dong, Phu Quoc island

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The Best Places to Shop in Halong Bay

Although shopping options in Halong Bay are quite limited, what’s available can be very interesting. Try visiting the night market in Bai Chay Town, which features many small open-air stalls offering a good selection of Vietnamese products, including the famous traditional silk dress (ao dai), lacquerware, chopsticks, trinkets, ceramic tea sets, conical hats (non la), and dolls. Experienced shoppers recommend bargaining hard — you can often get items for 30–50% of the original asking price. Most shops accept both US dollars and the local currency, the Vietnamese dong.

Another fun way to shop is from small floating vendors. Local people row boats filled with goods such as beer, vodka, cigarettes, potato chips, cookies, and other snacks. Their small boats are usually neatly organized, and even if you’re not buying anything, these vessels are fascinating to watch and photograph.

Shoppers are advised not to encourage vendors selling stalagmites and stalactites, as these natural formations should remain where they belong — inside Halong’s caves and grottos.