We all know how popular Vietnam is, especially for Indians. Its picturesque beaches, crystal clear rivers, bright skies, and authentic culture are something that tourists love about Vietnam. Besides, there is another thing that tourists are crazy about, and that is Shopping!
Do you know why?
Due to the low cost of living. Rs. 1=284.42 Vietnamese Dong. This fact makes shopping even more exciting. There is no chance to miss the chance to shop if you are planning to visit Vietnam. And to make things more convenient for you, we have compiled a list of 12 popular markets in this country that are worth a visit.
Best Places to Go Shopping In Vietnam
In this article, we will explore some of the best shopping places in Vietnam, where you can indulge in retail therapy and discover unique treasures to take home as souvenirs. So, get ready to embark on a shopping adventure as we delve into the vibrant retail scene of Vietnam.
1. Dong Xuan Market:
Here’s a market where you can find all the items that you can think of. It’s an indoor market that offers goods at quite affordable prices. From meat and seafood to handbags, dresses, and cutlery, you can find it all here. A great thing about this market is that the vendors here are very friendly and helpful and you will definitely get an insight into the typical Vietnamese culture here.
2. Hoi An Central Market:
This is a heritage place for shopping and it is situated near the river Thu Bon. Interested in eating fresh fish for dinner? If yes, then head on to this place to procure some freshly caught fish. This is another market where souvenirs are available in abundance. The market opens at 5 am and closes at around 4 pm.
3. Hang Gai and Hang Bac Street:
Here’s another market that’s worth a visit. It is famous for Do Paper (rice paper) goods such as cards, watercolors, and folk paintings, bamboo-bound notebooks, table lamps, etc. Such things are easily found in the shops along these alleys. If you are looking for a market to buy souvenirs from, then this place is just perfect for you. The power source air-conditioned Hanoi Moment store on Hang Gai Street is the ideal spot to buy souvenirs and much more! Additionally, Hang Gai has two or three blocks worth of stores that are entirely dedicated to silk and embroidery!
4. Binh Tay Market:
This market is located in Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown, Cholon. Want to explore something different? This is an ideal location to get an insight into the Buddhist culture. Interestingly, the variety of food offered in this market, not only reflects the culture of Vietnam but China too. There are various authentic goods that are available in this market, such as handicrafts, textiles, etc. Here, you can also check out the altar that is sold in honor of Binh Tay.
5. Dam Market:
The Nha Trang Market is one of the busiest markets in the country. It is famous by the name of Dam Market. This shopping area is spread out over a three-story building. The place is quite well-arranged and straightforward to use. The front and middle sections of the market are where fashion and accessory fans may discover handcrafted apparel, souvenirs, handbags, watches, trainers, and many replicas/copies of branded clothing. The food section of the market is also quite interesting. Here, you may find both raw and prepared food items.
6. Dinh Cau Night Market:
The spectacular Dinh Cau Night Market on Phu Quoc Island is a terrific place to go after the sun goes down. In this market, you can try the local cuisine and go shopping at the same time. There are over 100 stalls in this market where you can try your hands on mouthwatering delicacies while you browse. Some of the popular dishes include grilled scallops, steaming squid with fermented fish sauce, boiled sea snails, flower crab with rice noodles, and deep-fried prawns. Besides, t-shirts, slippers, jewelry, and handmade crafts are just a few other things Dinh Cau offers.
7. Cai Rang Floating Market:
Don’t worry if you’ve seen too many land-based markets; Vietnam has other options too. Cai Rang is the largest market area based on boats in the entire delta region. It is situated in the Mekong Delta. A charming bridge in the market is an ideal setting for some traditional photography. You may go to this location early in the morning to avoid the crowds of people. You can rent a boat to navigate the market, after which you can conveniently browse through the numerous goods offered for sale. Albeit, the market mostly specialises in selling fruit, vegetables, and seafood, you can also enjoy a real pho breakfast here. Trust me, you’ll like this place.
8. Trang Pottery Village:
On your trip to Vietnam, make sure to stop at the Red River’s nearby pottery and ceramic market. This beautiful market dates back to the seventh century. Beautiful and exquisite trinkets and decorative items are sold by the potters and ceramics stores. You may even create your own earthen wonder at some stores. Yes, you read that right. If you don’t feel like buying anything from here, you may simply just stroll down the street and explore the local Vietnamese culture.
9. Phan Thiet Central Market:
This is a well-known shopping destination in Vietnam. It is, in fact, the biggest market in the region. It starts serving fresh, inexpensive seafood at the crack of dawn. The food items offered here include prawns, squid, fish, snails, clams, and crabs. The best time to visit this market is early in the morning. This time is best if you want to try some delectable authentic Vietnamese cuisines. Tourists’ preferences among the edible gifts include nuoc mam cham (fermented fish dipping sauce) and coconut candy. Additionally, you may get distinctive and authentic Vietnamese dishes such as Cham fabrics and porcelain gifts. You must check out the Phan Thiet Central Market to get a quick taste of Vietnamese culture.
10. Takashimaya Ho Chi Minh City:
The Ho Chi Minh City market hosts the Japanese chain store Takashimaya. Tourists love this place in Vietnam. Here, you can buy cosmetics such as shampoos, serums, fragrances et cetera of some of the best brands like Bobbi Brown. You know what, the makeup brands here also offer free trials. So this makes it worth a visit.
11. Saigon Square:
Saigon Square is also situated in Ho Chi Minh City. This place is unquestionably one of the top malls and retail centers in Vietnam. Every budget shopper will be amazed by the broad array of clothing and accessories available at this location. To your relief, this market is air-conditioned and this makes it a welcome reprieve from Vietnam’s oppressively hot climate. You are sure to find some treasures to take back home with its big range of jackets, coats, dresses, wallets, bags, and much more.
12. Quang Ba Flower Market:
There aren’t many places that have an entire market solely for the exchange of flowers, but Vietnam isn’t an ordinary shopping destination! Right? The most diverse selection of colorful flowers is brought into this market from the adjacent villages of Dong Anh, Soc Son, Me Linh, Dalat, and Nhat Tan at the Quang Ba Flower Market in Hanoi, which opens as early as 2 a.m. Here, daisies, cherry blossoms, roses, orchids, and sunflowers are the most widely used flowers. This site is a sight to behold, and its lovable hues and scented ambiance will melt your heart. A wonderful addition to this trip would be a camera so that you can look back to this moment in the future.
Read more about, Best and must visit places in Vietnam
Vietnam is a shopaholic’s paradise, offering a myriad of shopping destinations that cater to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re seeking traditional handicrafts, fashionable clothing, or authentic Vietnamese souvenirs, this country has it all.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter to the vibrant markets of Ho Chi Minh City, and the modern shopping malls in Da Nang, Vietnam’s shopping scene never fails to impress. So, plan your trip, empty your suitcase, and get ready to explore the best shopping places in Vietnam. It’s time to indulge in retail therapy and bring home a piece of this captivating country’s charm. Happy shopping!
