Want to escape the typical tourist traps and find some truly unique local gifts in Hanoi? This is Prime Travel’s insider guide to shopping in Hanoi, featuring our top local gifts and where to buy them.

Hanoi is an exciting city with endless choices, but it can be hard to know where to begin and avoid those places that prioritize profit over quality or fair treatment.

This curated list features reputable businesses that offer high-quality local gifts while prioritizing sustainability and fair wages for their employees.

While these options may cost a little more, you can be sure you’re getting something authentic and supporting ethical practices.

Tops local gifts and where to buy

“Non La” – Conical Hat

The conical hat, or ‘nón lá’, is deeply woven into Vietnamese culture. More than just headwear, it symbolizes the resilience and resourcefulness of the Vietnamese people. Crafted from natural materials like palm leaves and bamboo, the nón lá provides practical protection from the elements while reflecting Vietnam’s agricultural roots.

As one of the top local gifts when shopping in Vietnam, conical hat can be purchased in multiple souvenior shops in the Old Quarter of Hanoi or Dong Xuan market. For a unique experience, take a short trip from Hanoi to Chuong Conical Hat Village, where generations of artisans have continued this time-honored tradition.

Hand Embroidery

Tanmy Design

Tanmy has been around forever! Grandma Tanmy started it way back in 1969, during the war, she specialized in embroidering handkerchiefs with love notes from girlfriends and wives to send to men on the frontline. Now, her grandkids are running the place, still making fine silk embroidered – bed sheets, tablecloths, garments, “áo dài”, etc.

Within their massive, multi-level store in Old Quarter’s “Hàng Gai” (Silk street), you’ll find not just their own designs but also a wide range of other local and international brands – fashion, home decor, art, and even beautiful silver jewelry. And don’t forget to grab a coffee at the cafe while you shop!

• Location: 61 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 08:30–20:00
• Online Shop

Huulala

Step inside this boutique and discover a world of hand-embroidered elegance. You’ll find a stunning collection from summer dresses to winter quilted jackets featuring embroidered floral motifs for women and children.

Don’t miss their collection of ao dai dresses and a delightful selection of affordable accessories like purses, lacquer jewelry, and pillow covers. For a touch of Vietnamese artistry, choose designs featuring lotus flowers, majestic dragons, mythical phoenixes, or graceful cranes.

• Location: 2 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00–22:00
• Online Shop

Hand Quilts

Mekong Quilts

This social enterprise is a treasure trove of hand quilted beauties! They work with under-privileged women in Vietnam and Cambodia to make the most gorgeous quilts, blankets, pillows, clothing and accessories that are both fair trade and sustainable.

In addition to their beautiful quilts, Mekong Quilts Hanoi offers eco-friendly bamboo bikes, a truly special find.

• Location: 2 Hang Ngang, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 10:00 – 18:00
• Online Shop 

Traditional Ethnic Minorities’ Souvenirs

Craft Link

Craft Link, a leading Vietnamese non-profit, fair trade social enterprise, collaborates with artisans in rural communities. Craft Link assists ethnic minority groups and traditional craft producers in preserving their cultural heritage and improving their incomes through the production and sale of local crafts.

They create new collections of fashion, textiles, home decor, gifts, and toys, which are then showcased at their boutique near the Temple of Literature. Plus, the shop staff will be happy to explain the embroidery/weave style by the different tribes they represent. It was cultural experience when shopping in Hanoi.

• Location: 51 Van Mieu, Dong Da district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00–18:00
• Online Shop

Indigo Store

Next door to Craft Link, you’ll find a charming Organic & Fair-trade clothing boutique that collaborates with local artisans to create beautiful Japanese-inspired garments for both men and women.

As the name suggests, they specialize in indigo-dyed fabrics, sourcing the highest quality natural dyes in vibrant blues from Dao artisans.

Indigo’s lightweight and breathable properties make it ideal for the Southeast Asian climate. Many of the best finds are hidden upstairs, so take your time to explore.

They also offer on-site tailoring services and host engaging natural dyeing workshops for all ages.

• Location: 33A Van Mieu, Dong Da district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 08:00–19:00
• Online Shop 

Truc Lam Handmade

At Truc Lam Handmade, you’ll discover a stunning collection of local crafts from traditional materials like lacquer, silk, and embroidery. Highlights include local gifts made from vibrant ethnic brocade, intricately detailed wooden puppets gilded with gold, and unique postcards created from Dó paper.

Truc Lam Handmade’s exquisite pieces beautifully capture the essence of Vietnam’s rich heritage, reflecting the company’s dedication to preserving and promoting the nation’s diverse traditions.

• Location: within the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology – Nguyen Van Huyen, Cau Giay district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 08:00 – 18:00
• Online Shop

Do Paper and Dong Ho Paintings

Zo Project

The social enterprise – Zo Project was founded by a group of Hanoians to revive the nearly forgotten art of Vietnamese ‘dó’ papermaking.

Traditionally, this unique paper, crafted from the bark of a rare tree, was used for calligraphy, poetry, and the creation of exquisite “đông hồ” folk paintings.

Zo Project collaborates with a family in nearby Hoa Binh Province who meticulously handcraft this beautifully textured, subtly colored paper.

Their charming shop showcases a delightful array of local gifts crafted from this special paper, including propaganda posters, calligraphy prints, notebooks adorned with vintage Hanoi designs, postcards, and even elegant paper earrings.

Zo Project also offers engaging calligraphy and watercolor classes, and fascinating tours to the paper-making village, providing a truly immersive cultural experience.

• Location: 189 Trich Sai, Tay Ho district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 08:00-17:00
• Online Shop 

Dong Ho Painting Sale Shop

Tucked away near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, you’ll find a small shop brimming with authentic “Đông Hồ” folk paintings. These traditional paintings, crafted using UNESCO-recognized woodcut techniques in Đông Hồ village, are a rare find.

Printed on natural canvas, these paintings can be purchased framed or unframed. Each Đông Hồ painting carries symbolic meaning, with special designs created for Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and various legends.

Popular motifs include the playful ‘Đám cưới chuột’ (Rat’s Wedding), along with auspicious symbols like carp (for health and fortune), lotus blooms, and buffalo.

The knowledgeable and friendly owner will gladly guide you in selecting the perfect painting to cherish.

• Location: 2, Lane 174, Doi Can, Ba Dinh district, Hanoi
• Online Shop

Laccquerware

Hanoi is renowned for its beautiful lacquerware. Add a touch of Vietnamese artistry to your collection of local gifts with these exquisite lacquerware pieces. Each item showcases the incredible skill and dedication of Vietnamese artisans who are preserving this ancient craft for generations to come.

• Location:
  • Lacquer studio: 26 Luong Ngoc Quyen, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
  • Hanoia (for high-end lacquerware): 38 Hang Dao, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi

Ceramic

Hien Van ceramic

Hiên Vân ceramics beautifully blend sculptural artistry with the delicate touch of painting, drawing inspiration from ancient Vietnamese pottery traditions. Crafted using time-honored techniques, traditional clays, and glazes, these ceramics echo the legacy of the Lý-Trần era.

Each piece is meticulously adorned with a handcrafted ash glaze, transforming them into both functional and decorative treasures. While pricier than mass-produced pottery found throughout Hanoi, their exceptional quality and unique beauty make these local gifts well worth the investment.

• Location: 8 Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00 – 18:00
• Online Shop 

Cerender ceramics

Cerender showcases exquisite porcelains and fine tableware, crafted by families who have been perfecting their kiln techniques for over 700 years in nearby Bat Trang village. Their designs range from delicate florals inspired by traditional Vietnamese and Chinese pottery to striking repeat patterns and contemporary motifs.

While ceramics can be fragile souvenirs, Cerender offers a selection of smaller, lightweight pieces that are less prone to breakage, and their expert staff will ensure your purchases are carefully wrapped for safe travel.

• Location: 11A, Trang Thi, Hoan Kiem district Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00 – 22:00
• Online Shop 

Hanoi Theme T-shirt

Ginkgo T-shirts

A Hanoi shopping staple, Ginko is a pioneer in Vietnamese fair trade fashion. Their signature line features 100% organic cotton tees adorned with quirky, Hanoi-inspired prints. With multiple shops in the Old Quarter, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City, Ginko offers more than just clothing. Explore their selection of paper goods, playing cards, and a fantastic range of bags crafted from repurposed materials like tarpaulin.

• Location:
  • 49 Dinh Tien Hoang, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
  • 60 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
  • 79 Hang Gai, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
  • 44 Hang Be, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00 – 22:00
• Online Shop 

Contemporary Gifts

Tired City

For unique souvenirs with a modern edge, check out Tired City. This vibrant shop showcases the work of emerging young Vietnamese artists, offering a fresh take on traditional motifs.

You’ll find stylish t-shirts, tote bags, art prints, and adorable Hanoi-themed keychains, all featuring original designs. Tired City is more than just a shop; it’s a platform that supports local talent and brings a contemporary twist to Vietnamese creativity.

• Location: they have multiple locations in the Old Quarter, you can check the nearby on their website
• Opening time: 08:30–22:30
• Online Shop 

Collective Memory – The House of Curios

This curated shop features over 30 local brands, all committed to creating high-quality local gifts designed for everyday use.

You’ll find a treasure trove of handmade, organic, and ethically produced goods, all made in Vietnam. From beautiful homewares like tea towels and cushion covers to stylish paper goods and unique clothing, there’s something for everyone.

Don’t miss their delicious edibles like Saigon Charlie hot sauce, coconut oil from the Mekong Delta, and the divine Hoi An sea salt with puffed rice and green tea.

With a wide selection of essential oils, handmade soaps, books, posters, puzzles, and even Hanoi Monopoly, Collective Memory is a one-stop shop for all your souvenir needs when shopping in Hanoi.

• Location: 12 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 10:00–18:30
• Online Shop 

Liu Lo Arts and Crafts

Liu Lo Arts and Crafts is a must-visit for souvenir hunters in Hanoi. Renowned for its exquisite handmade polymer clay earrings, the shop also provides a valuable platform for local artisans to showcase their creations. This supportive community fosters creativity and helps artisans achieve their dreams.

Beyond shopping in Hanoi, Liu Lo offers engaging workshops where you can learn various art forms like linocut, watercolor painting, mug making, earring crafting, and upcycling techniques. These workshops are a fantastic way to gain new skills and create unique, personalized local gifts to cherish.

• Location: 19 Chan Cam, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00–21:00
• Online Shop

Ra Rieng Store

Ra Rieng Arts and Crafts is a delightful shop filled with charming handcrafted souvenirs made by local artisans. Committed to sustainability, they offer a range of eco-friendly local gifts like naturally dyed clothing, unique leaf notebooks, and natural soap.

You’ll be warmly welcomed by their passionate vendors, making it a truly enjoyable experience to shopping in Hanoi.

• Location: 7A Ng. Phan Huy Chu, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:30–19:00
• Online Shop 

To He Style

Tohe Style is a unique Hanoi souvenir shop with a heartwarming mission. This not-for-profit organization provides art and creative therapy programs for disadvantaged children in Vietnam. Their charming shop in the Old Quarter showcases the children’s whimsical artwork, transformed into vibrant tote bags, scarfs, passport covers, key chains and colorful accessories.

By purchasing these delightful creations, you not only acquire unique and meaningful local gifts but also directly support the children’s education and personal development. Tohe Style offers a wonderful opportunity to bring home a piece of Hanoi that celebrates both creativity and compassion.

• Location: 8 Do Quang, Cau Giay district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00 – 20:00
• Online Shop 

Fashion

An Store

An Store is a stylish lifestyle boutique founded by local designer Nguyen Mai Phuong. This thoughtfully curated space brings together a collection of unique brands, showcasing handmade leather shoes and bags, elegant ceramics, and beautiful linen clothing in neutral colors for women.

The vintage-inspired storefront near the Hanoi Opera House is instantly recognizable and adds to the charm of this unique shopping experience.

• Location: 8 Ly Dao Thanh, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00–20:00
• Online Shop 

Kilomet109

Hanoi’s leading slow fashion label, Kilomet109, boasts a stunning studio-boutique in Tay Ho. Designer Vu Thao collaborates with ethnic minority artisans to create exquisite garments, scarves, and accessories featuring handwoven fabrics, natural dyes, and intricate embroidery and batik detailing.

The meticulous craftsmanship behind each piece is truly remarkable. We also particularly admire her designs which are both sturdy and playful with classic silhouettes.

• Location: 64 Quang An, Tay Ho district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 10:00–19:00
• Online Shop 

Chula Fashion House

This unique boutique was founded by a Spanish couple who blend Vietnamese and Western fashion influences in their designs. They utilize beautiful, traditional handmade fabrics and employ women with disabilities to create their clothing. Don’t worry about finding the perfect fit—all garments can be custom-made to ensure a perfect fit for you.

• Location: 43 Nhat Chieu, Tay Ho district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00–19:00
• Online Shop 

Local Specialties

O Mai

O Mai is one of must-have local gifts from Hanoi. These tangy and sweet preserved treats, often made from apricots, plums, or kumquats, offer a delightful taste of the city’s culinary heritage. Bringing home O Mai is a delicious way to savor the flavors of Hanoi long after your trip.

• Location:
  • O Mai Gia Loi: 8 Hang Duong Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
  • O Mai Gia Thinh: 13 Hang Duong Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
  • O Mai Thuy Khe: 10 Hang Cot Street, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi

Oriberry Coffee

This popular cafe chain boasts five locations throughout Hanoi, all serving delicious Fair Trade coffee. Each branch features a charming retail area where you can purchase hand-painted ceramics, traditional Vietnamese “phin” drip coffee filters, and other coffee and tea accessories.

You can also find small, sealed bags of Oriberry beans and ground coffee to enjoy at home.

• Location: 01 Pham Su Manh/ 6A Pham Su Manh/ 11B Tong Dan, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 07:00 – 22:00
• Online Shop 

Maison Marou Chocolate

Maison Marou, Vietnam’s pioneering boutique chocolate brand, crafts exquisite chocolates using cocoa beans sourced from Central and Southern Vietnam. Their innovative flavors, inspired by local ingredients like puffed rice and candied ginger, are a delightful taste of Vietnam.

The vibrant packaging, reminiscent of traditional Vietnamese woodblock prints, makes their chocolates perfect souvenirs from Hanoi. (Just try not to devour them all before you leave!)

Maison Marou boasts several shops in Hanoi and Saigon. Their flagship shop-cafe in the capital is a true architectural gem when shopping in  Hanoi. It features a stylish patisserie and a captivating glass-walled production kitchen where you can watch the chocolatiers at work.

• Location: 91A Tho Nhuom, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 09:00-22:00
• Online Shop 

L’angfarm

L’angfarm, a renowned producer of gourmet food from the Central Highlands, has several convenient outlets in Hanoi, including locations within Aeon Mall, Lotte Mart Lieu Giai.

This one-stop-shop offers a delectable array of organic and bio Vietnamese food products, including dried fruits, aromatic spices, flavorful condiments, premium coffee beans, delightful teas (like the famous Dalat artichoke tea), and a wide range of jams and preserves.

All products are locally sourced and bursting with flavor. L’angfarm’s thoughtfully packaged products are perfect for travel and make ideal edible local gifts when shopping in Hanoi.

• Location: Lotte Mart – 54 Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 07:30-22:00
• Online Shop 

Son Tinh – Vietnamese Rice Wine

This renowned brand produces a diverse range of high-quality rice wines, crafted using traditional methods and featuring unique flavor profiles.

Sơn Tinh uses premium ingredients like fragrant rice and carefully selected botanicals, resulting in exceptional taste.

With international acclaim and a wide variety of flavors, including those infused with local fruits like rose apple and apricot, Sơn Tinh rice wine makes a perfect and memorable souvenir from your Vietnamese adventure.

• Location: 5 Hang Tre, Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
• Opening time: 08:00-17:00
• Online Shop 

Tips To Buy Local

• Choose products made from natural and sustainable materials: Look for items made from bamboo, recycled materials, or organic cotton.
• Support local artisans and shops: Buy from locals directly or look for fair trade products or social enterprises
• Don’t rush your shopping experience: Enjoy the atmosphere of the markets, interact with the vendors, and discover hidden gems.
• List of  Prohibited souvenirs in Vietnam

• • Endangered Animal Products: Items made from endangered species, such as ivory, rhinoceros horn, sea turtle shells, or products derived from protected animals, like tiger skins, snakeskin, and certain corals, should be strictly avoided.
  • Wildlife Products: Be cautious of souvenirs made from wildlife, even if not necessarily endangered. This could include: certain feathers (especially from protected birds), claws or teeth of wild animals, live animals (buying wild animals as pets is illegal), any plants/seeds may be restricted.
  • Antiques and Cultural Artifacts: Don’t purchase historical artifacts or antiques without proper documentation. This could be confiscated at customs.
  • Counterfeit Goods: Steer clear of fake designer brands or pirated software.
  • Military Souvenirs: Avoid buying military items like medals or uniforms.

So there you have it! With this guide, you’re well-equipped to embark on a shopping in Hanoi and discover unique, meaningful local gifts. Remember to buy local, choose eco-friendly local crafts, and enjoy the vibrant shopping scene that Hanoi has to offer.

Explore related posts about Hanoi >>>

Where to stay in Hanoi Vietnam – Top Hotel Picks in 2024

Top 10 things to do in Hanoi: The best guide for travellers

Hanoi Street Food: Top 10 DELICIOUS dishes You Can’t Miss

Hanoi Airport: A Quick Guide to the Top Features and Tips

Weather in Hanoi: How To Make Great Adventure in Vietnam