Shopping in Hanoi

Hand-embroidered tablecloths and lacquerware are very popular in Hanoi. The hill tribes also sell colourful woven bags and clothing in the city. Good souvenirs are ceramics from Bat Trang village, silk paintings and hand-painted greetings cards.

Key areas

The Old Quarter has numerous streets crammed with shops, but those of particular interest are on Hang Gai and Hang Bong. Off-the-peg clothing is always a good buy, but even better is to have clothes made up by one of the many tailors. The area close to Hoan Kiem Lake has some excellent shops including along Hai Ba Trung Street.

Markets

Dong Xuan Market on Dong Xuan Street is Hanoi's largest wholesale and retail centre, and anything and everything can be found there.

Shopping centres

Shopping malls have arrived in Hanoi with the Trang Tien Plaza at 24 Hai Ba Trung, the Parkson on Thai Ha and VinCom City Towers at 191 Ba Trieu selling leading international and domestic brands.

Opening hours

Shops in Hanoi are generally open seven days a week from around 0800 until 2000 or even 2100.

Tax information

VAT is included on most items sold in Hanoi, and 10% is the standard, but there is no system for foreign visitors to be able to claim this back.