Shopping and retail options in Vietnam: Variety of traditional markets. Modern shopping malls. Bargaining practices common. Local street vendors. Artisan crafts available. Duty-free shops at airports. Vietnamese fashion brands. Electronic and tech stores. Grocery chains and supermarkets. Online shopping platforms.
Variety of traditional markets
Vietnam offers a diverse array of traditional markets, such as Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh City, which is divided into sections for different goods like dried foods, flowers, fruits, and souvenirs, and features a vibrant night market. Other notable markets include Dam Market in Nha Trang, known for its unique lotus flower design and varied shopping areas, and Hom Market in Hanoi, which specializes in fabrics, fresh produce, and traditional Vietnamese dishes. For a more comprehensive guide, visit the Local Markets page to explore Vietnam's vibrant market culture.
Modern shopping malls
In Vietnam, modern shopping malls such as Vincom Shopping Mall in Hanoi and SC VivoCity, AEON Mall, and Vincom Landmark 81 in Ho Chi Minh City offer a wide range of international and local brands, dining options, and entertainment facilities, catering to various tastes and budgets. These malls feature high-end fashion, electronics, hypermarkets, cinemas, and unique amenities like ice-skating rinks and outdoor amusement parks, making them popular destinations for both locals and tourists. For a detailed guide on the best shopping malls and centers, visit the Travel to Vietnam website to enhance your shopping experience.
Bargaining practices common
In Vietnam, bargaining is a common and expected practice, especially in markets, where vendors often set high initial prices. To bargain effectively, start with an offer of about half the asking price, maintain a polite and respectful attitude, and avoid showing too much interest in the product to negotiate a better deal, typically ending up at 40-50% of the original price. For more comprehensive tips on this cultural experience, visit this helpful Bargain Tips for Shopping in Vietnam guide. Successfully mastering the art of bargaining not only leads to significant savings but also enriches your cultural experience in this vibrant country.
Local street vendors
Local street vendors in Vietnam are a crucial part of the urban economy, offering a wide range of products including fruits, flowers, and domestic goods. They operate in various modes, such as moving vendors, those with stable street stands, and those who expand their shop products onto the pavement, providing fresh and convenient shopping options with regular customers and stable trading relationships. To explore more about the rich culture of these street vendors, you can visit Vietnam Online, where you'll find detailed insights into this vibrant and essential aspect of Vietnamese daily life.
Artisan crafts available
In North Vietnam, artisans supported by Serrv International create traditional handicrafts such as tie dye, screen-printing, and ceramics, particularly in villages like Bat Trang, known for its ceramic pottery since the 15th century. These handicrafts help preserve traditional skills and provide fair wages and social welfare for marginalized artisans.
Duty-free shops at airports
At Noi Bai International Airport, duty-free shops such as NIA Duty Free and Lotte Duty-Free are located in the international terminal (T2), offering a wide range of products including perfumes, cosmetics, spirits, watches, leather goods, and gourmet food from renowned global brands. These shops are situated on the first and third floors of T2, providing convenient shopping options for both arriving and departing international passengers. For more information about the offerings, you can visit the Duty-Free Shop page on their official website.
Vietnamese fashion brands
This article highlights several modern Vietnamese fashion brands, including Originality.official, LAVIICI, and Red Bean, known for their unique and stylish designs, with options for online shopping and worldwide shipping. These brands offer a range of fashion items, from form-fitting dresses to elegant, minimalist clothing with intricate details. For more information on these emerging labels, visit the website of City Nomads, as they delve into each brand's distinctive offerings and global appeal.
Electronic and tech stores
The top electronics stores in Vietnam include The Gioi Di Dong, FPT Shop, Dien May Xanh, Nguyen Kim, and the Sony Store, each offering a wide range of electronic products, competitive pricing, and excellent customer service, catering to both local and international shoppers. To explore more about these options and find the best deals, you can visit the Vietnam is Awesome website for detailed insights and recommendations.
Grocery chains and supermarkets
In Vietnam, the retail landscape is dominated by supermarket chains such as WinMart+ with 3,500 stores, Bach Hoa Xanh with nearly 1,700 stores, and Co.op Food with 579 stores. These chains offer a wide range of products, emphasizing convenience, quality, and local sourcing, and have adapted to consumer demands by incorporating online shopping and delivery services. For more in-depth insights into the retail industry in Vietnam, visit the Biggest Supermarkets Vietnam blog on GourmetPro.
Online shopping platforms
In Vietnam, the top online shopping platforms include Lazada, Shopee, and Tiki, each offering a wide range of products, multiple payment options, and reliable delivery services. Lazada, owned by Alibaba, and Shopee, part of the Sea Group, are major foreign players, while Tiki is a local success story known for its fast delivery and customer service. For more insights on these platforms, visit the article on Vietnam Online Shopping. These platforms have significantly contributed to the e-commerce boom in the country, providing users with convenient and diverse shopping experiences.