Shopping Vietnam - Top 3 cities

Vietnam’s Best Cities for Shopping: My Top 3 Picks

Vietnam isn’t just a feast for the senses with its food, landscapes, and culture — it’s also a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re into luxury malls, artisanal crafts, or budget-friendly markets, there’s a corner of Vietnam ready to tempt your wallet.

After years of travel and countless shopping bags later, here’s my personal picks for the best cities in Vietnam to shop your heart out.

1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) – The Ultimate Shopping Playground

As this is my story, I get to vote as per my own personal shopping experiences in Vietnam over the past decade or so.

Therefore.....I have to vote Saigon No 1.

If there’s a city in Vietnam that knows how to cater to every kind of shopper, it’s Saigon. From glitzy malls to gritty markets, this place hums with retail energy at every corner.

PRO TIP – Allow plenty of time, as you will soon get swooped up in the dizziness of it, and your day will be gone before you know it! Plus what I am featuring here, is just the tip of the iceberg.

Where to shop in Saigon:

• Ben Thanh Market – A true Saigon icon. It’s bustling, chaotic, and requires some serious bargaining skills. Come here for souvenirs, local snacks, and a dose of market madness. Over time I have noticed this market to become quite aggressive in its bargaining, so be prepared for high level negotiating.

• Saigon Square – Across from Saigon Centre, this indoor market is cleaner and more navigable than Ben Thanh but still offers great deals on fashion and accessories. This is a favourite as for a few more dollars over Ben Thanh you still can get a bargain but its less hard core bargaining and a little bit more air free.

• Taka Plaza & Central Market Food Court – Newer and air-conditioned, these underground markets make for a more chilled shopping experience. Grab a bite and browse in comfort. Perfect for a super hot or wet day. I found these markets to be open aired and while not over stocked I have bought some super bags and fun things for kids.

• Vincom Centre & Diamond Plaza – For those who prefer air-con and international brands, these malls offer everything from Zara to Louis Vuitton. This is another western style plaza, with a variety including H & M, and for me then an easy access to the katinat building opposite H&M; where you can climb stairs to heavenly coffee at Cong Café and boutiques featuring vintage and artisan fashion. JExit H&M and just cross the road and you are there.

• The Café Apartment & The Playground (District 1) – Tucked-away boutique gems. Head to The Playground for edgy local designers or explore the quirky “Café Apartment” building where each floor reveals funky shops and cafés (including a classic Cong Café). A great book shop next door as well.

• Saigon Kitsch – Looking for Vietnam-themed homewares or cute gifts? This Instagram-favourite shop has you covered. More than one level, so keep climbing for more “kitsch”.

• Diamond Plaza – High end brands mainly, but spacious and deserves a wander. I expect it will expand in the future.

• Mekong Quilts – Handmade quilts, accessories, and home décor, all supporting local artisans in rural Vietnam.

• Thao Dien, District 2 – A world of its own. This expat-friendly enclave is home to indie fashion stores, yoga studios, art galleries, and serene cafés. Go by Grab or even by ferry if you want to enjoy a different view of Saigon. You might like to check this local guide out - https://www.livinginvietnam.com/exploring-thao-dien-a-guide-to-saigons-trendiest-neighborhood

Why did I give Saigon the crown? Basically because of its - variety, convenience, and style. There’s truly something for everyone — from bargain hunters to boutique lovers.

2. Hanoi – Where Tradition Meets the Artisans of the Future

No 2 - Has to be Hanoi - but maybe NOT for the reasons you think.

Hanoi's Old Quarter is legendary for its maze-like streets packed with textiles, crafts, and souvenirs. The city combines history with an evolving fashion and café scene that continues to surprise. And while I do go in search of shopping here, just so I can say I have experienced it, I get so lost in other aspects of the city, to be honest, it is not my top priority here.

However, I have bought some beautiful pieces here in silk, jewellery, homewares and beautiful pen sets from Tanmy Design.(See below) Remember as you read this; these are MY personal favourites.

What to shop for: Personally I think SILK, HANDCRAFTS, ART and VINTAGE

• Silk scarves and dresses – Google Silk Street, old fashioned embroidery, and hand-painted ceramics

• Vietnamese art ( Check out S4-E12 for  Contemporary Art Gallery) You need to book appointment with Suzanne Lecht at Art Vietnam Gallery as it is also her home. Amazing!

• Tailored clothing at affordable prices - Mostly high end brands. Check out their newest Lotte Shopping mall.

  ( see pic below) I think it needs a bit of personality? Did I say that???

• Design - traditional, high end, young and artisan local designers, especially some ones located near the Cathedral. For others most worthy - Chula and Tanmy Design

• Vintage goods - Collective Memory and upcycled fashion in boutiques near Tay Ho and the French Quarter. Tay Ho I think is the place to watch in the future.

Wander into the weekend night markets or duck into Dong Xuan Market for a sensory overload. Hanoi’s charm lies in its street-by-street surprises and its deeply rooted craftsmanship. However amongst all of that is a lot of what I call "bits and bobs", junky type things, cheap trinkets and souvenirs.

A personal favourite is Future Traditions – A place you can find indigenous textiles, Hanoi style. Future Traditions creates stylish clothing and jewellery by working with Vietnam’s ethnic minority textile producers and traditional craftspeople. It’s the kind of place you can buy “one offs”. Arrange an appointment through their FB page.

3. Hoi An – Tailor-Made Heaven

Hoi An might be smaller, but when it comes to tailoring, this UNESCO-listed town punches way above its weight. With over 400 tailor shops, this is the place to get a custom suit, dress, or even shoes made — all within 24–48 hours. I personally don’t ever think of anywhere else for tailoring in Vietnam. But choose wisely.

Beyond tailoring, Hoi An has grown into a charming boutique town and thats why I didn't choose an image of a tailor to speak about this town for its shopping prowess.

Hoi An is becoming a Vintage, eclectic, homewares and traditional arts town.

Beyond tailoring, Hoi An is morphing into more than just tailoring. I think its the perfect town to broaden its scope of uniqueness in:-

• Artisanal homewares

• Handmade leather goods

• Eco-conscious brands and organic beauty products

• Bamboo products

• Refillables

• jewellery

• Lanterns, of course!

I could provide a long list of places to visit, but half the fun is stumbling upon your own finds in the township and in the small alleys.

However, one shout out is for Lac Viet Jewellery where I have had some gorgeous pieces made in silver and gold at amazing prices and genuine quality. Mention my name and Kim Yen Nguyen Thi will take good care of you.

Hoi An is an ever evolving Old Town. If you have been to this town previoulsy you will notice the crowds and the shift in perspective. Its a town trying to keep up with domestic travellers and well as the ever increasing international market. Its the place to muse, to take advantage of the tailors there, but do your homework. I know reviews are helpful but they are not always reliable. While I have always used Shop 41 in the Fabric Markets which are still wonderful, but they are now focused on a very young market, and no time for me. Sad I know, but I have many treasured items in my wardrobe to be thankful for over the years. So, I am back on the look out. Stay tuned!

Oh, and the night market is one of the most photogenic in the country — so plan a wander through at the end of your evening amongst the ever-increasing buzzing crowds.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re on the hunt for designer threads, a bespoke blazer, or the perfect ceramic bowl, Vietnam offers a dynamic shopping experience.

Each city brings its own flair, and if you ask me — Saigon is still the queen of retail therapy, so make time in this city if SHOPPING is your thing.

Want a savvy local to help you haggle like a pro or uncover hidden gems beyond the usual tourist track?Book a Buddy through our trusted network and use the What About Vietnam code KERRYVN5 for a special rate. Whether you’re bargain hunting or searching for something unique, your Buddy knows exactly where to look — and how to get the best deal.

Pack light and bring an extra bag — you’ll be glad you did.

Written by Kerry Newsome