Where to shop in Hanoi

Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, has earned a well-deserved reputation as a haven for shopaholics. While Western-style malls offer an array of international brands and modern amenities, it is in the vibrant streets and markets where the true essence of Hanoi's shopping experience can be found.

Discovering the Charms of the Old Quarter

The Old Quarter, often referred to as the "36 Streets," serves as the beating heart of Hanoi's commercial activities. Each street within this historic district is named after a specific craft guild or industry, reflecting its centuries-old heritage. Despite its age, the Old Quarter remains a bustling hub of trade, with its narrow alleyways and crisscrossing power lines forming a tapestry of economic activity.

Hang Bac - Where Silver Takes Shape

For centuries, Hang Bac, also known as Silver Street, has been the go-to destination for artisans specializing in exquisite silver jewelry. While some manufacturing techniques have evolved, the street still exudes a nostalgic charm. Alongside old-style pagodas and red-roofed communal houses, you'll find craftsmen meticulously fashioning silver into stunning pieces of art.

Hang Dau - The Haven for Shoe Enthusiasts

As you venture into Hang Dau, or Shoe Street, you'll be greeted by a myriad of knockoff brand names and meticulously handcrafted leather sandals. Whether you're in search of dress shoes, shower shoes, flip flops, or stilettos, Hang Dau offers a wide variety of footwear options. Keep in mind that the Vietnamese sizes might pose a challenge for those accustomed to Western measurements.

Hang Gai - Embark on a Silk Journey

Known as Silk Street, Hang Gai is a vibrant hub brimming with talented tailors and upscale boutiques offering the finest silk products in the city. During the French Colonial period, Hang Dao, now known as Hang Gai, was celebrated as the "Silk Road." While Hang Dao has transformed into a marketplace for clothes and trinkets, Hang Gai remains the epicenter of Hanoi's silk trade, offering an extensive selection of high-quality silk garments and accessories.

Dive into the Enchanting World of Hanoi's Markets

To truly immerse yourself in the local shopping culture, it is essential to explore Hanoi's bustling markets. These vibrant bazaars replace the individual street stalls with a labyrinthine assortment of goods, catering to a variety of tastes and needs.

Dong Xuan Market - Where Wholesale Dreams Come True

Situated in the heart of the Old Quarter, Dong Xuan Market stands as a colossal wholesale market offering an extensive range of products. From fabric, shoes, and clothes to toys, souvenirs, and candies, this bustling market has it all. The surrounding alleys, which are an integral part of the market, provide an additional treasure trove of items, including bedding and glassware.

Long Bien Market - The Fresh Produce Haven

Regarded as one of Hanoi's most significant markets, Long Bien Market serves as the primary wholesale produce market for the entire city. This bustling market acts as a vital source for households, restaurants, and local vendors who seek fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat. The market comes alive during the early morning hours when trucks unload a cornucopia of produce sourced from different parts of the country.

Quang Ba Market - A Fragrant Oasis

Step into the world of sensory delight at Quang Ba Market, where fragrant blooms in a kaleidoscope of colors fill the surroundings. Between midnight and 3 am, the market undergoes a magical transformation into a natural perfume factory. Cut blossoms, fresh from the fields, emanate their exquisite scents, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that captivates both locals and visitors alike.

Nghia Tan Market - A Culinary Paradise

For the ultimate food adventure, make your way to Nghia Tan Market. As the most renowned food market in Hanoi, it offers a plethora of delectable snacks and street foods. Whatever dish you crave from the diverse Hanoi cuisine, Nghia Tan Market delivers freshly made options at incredibly affordable prices. Prepare to indulge in an authentic culinary experience that showcases the true flavors of the city.

Phung Khoan Market - Where Bargains Await

If you're looking for unbeatable deals and a wide array of goods, Phung Khoan Market is your go-to destination. Offering everything from clothes to home goods, this bustling market caters to the needs of young people, university students, expats, and long-term travelers. Affordable prices, coupled with an extensive selection, make Phung Khoan Market the perfect place to stock up on essentials and find unique items to decorate your living space.

Journey of Cultural Souvenirs and Handcrafted Delights

Hanoi is not just a shopping destination; it is a treasure trove of local souvenirs and handcrafted wonders that reflect the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam. Discover these unique stores that offer exceptional products and celebrate the creativity of Vietnamese artisans.

Hanoia - A Journey Through Time

Hanoia pays homage to the ancient Vietnamese art of lacquerware, elevating it to the international stage. With a dedicated team of craftsmen from a historical village in Binh Duong Province, Hanoia brings contemporary versions of traditional art to life. From home decor to jewelry, their exquisite range of products showcases the timeless beauty and meticulous craftsmanship of lacquer art.

Collective Memories - Celebrating Local Identity

Founded by a travel writer and a photographer who fell in love with their own country, Collective Memories aims to preserve cultural individuality in the face of globalization. This unique store curates an eclectic assortment of goods, ranging from hand-stitched clothing and wood-fired cups to art prints and chili sauce. With its ever-changing selection, Collective Memories provides a platform for a diverse pool of craftsmen to showcase their talents to an international audience.

Tired City - Where Art Comes Alive

Tired City serves as a platform for young Vietnamese artists and illustrators to showcase their original artwork. Offering prints, apparel, tote bags, and stationary, this modern art destination supports local artists financially and nurtures creative collaboration through the Vietnam Local Artists Group, a digital community. When you purchase from Tired City, you not only acquire a unique piece of art but also contribute directly to the growth of the local art scene.

Hanoi's Malls Offer a Modern Shopping Experience

For those seeking a different ambiance or Western-sized options, Hanoi's shopping malls provide a contemporary and convenient shopping experience.

Vincom Center and Vincom Mega Mall Royal City - A Shopper's Haven

Vincom Center, located on Ba Trieu Street, offers an ideal shopping destination with a wide selection of international brands. Navigating through this mall is a breeze, ensuring a smooth shopping experience. Meanwhile, Vincom Mega Mall Royal City takes the shopping experience to new heights, featuring an extensive range of shops, an indoor water park, an ice skating rink, an aquarium, and a cinema. With its "one destination - all needs - many options" slogan, this mall truly caters to all your desires.

Trang Tien Plaza - Luxury at Its Finest

Situated in Hanoi's French Quarter, Trang Tien Plaza stands out as an architectural gem. The transparent-glass walls beckon passersby to explore its luxurious offerings. This upscale mall showcases world-class fashion brands like Cartier, Burberry, Dior, Zegna, BVLGARI, and Louis Vuitton. From designer clothes and handbags to cutting-edge electronics and home decor, Trang Tien Plaza epitomizes elegance and sophistication.

Take part in this retail adventure and experience Hanoi's diverse and captivating shopping destinations.