[Ho Chi Minh City | Selected Gifts] Great for friends and family, whether you’re just giving them as a gift or just for yourself!

Top 6 Souvenirs from Southern Vietnam – Bring Home More Than Just Memories!

Southern Vietnam is known for its abundant natural resources and rich cultural atmosphere. Beyond sightseeing, bringing home some local specialties as souvenirs is an experience you shouldn’t miss! Here are 6 must-buy gifts from the South that let you savor the flavors and memories of this beautiful land long after your trip ends.

1. Durian Pia Cake

Durian Pia Cake is a specialty snack unique to Southern Vietnam. With a flaky crust and a rich, aromatic durian filling, it’s a treat that’s loved by both locals and visitors. Especially in Ho Chi Minh City and nearby regions where durian quality is top-notch, these pastries are incredibly delicious. You can find them in local shops and supermarkets, but the handmade versions are especially popular with tourists.

• Where to buy: Ben Thanh Market, supermarkets, local dessert shops

• Price: ~150,000 – 250,000 VND (approx. 195 – 325 TWD)

2. Coconut Cookies

Coconut cookies may look simple, but their taste is truly impressive! Crispy and full of coconut flavor, they pair perfectly with tea or coffee. Each bite is a comforting taste of the tropics, and they’re so addictive you might finish the whole pack without realizing it. Next time you’re in a Vietnamese supermarket, don’t hesitate—grab a few packs!

• Where to buy: Local markets in Mui Ne and My Tho, Ben Thanh Market, supermarkets

• Price: ~80,000 – 120,000 VND (approx. 105 – 160 TWD)

3. Phuc Long Tea

Phuc Long is a well-known Vietnamese tea brand offering a wide range of high-quality teas including green tea, oolong, and floral blends—perfect for tea lovers. With beautifully packaged gift sets, it’s a great souvenir or gift option. Phuc Long shops are found throughout Southern Vietnam and also serve freshly brewed tea beverages in-store.

• Where to buy: Phuc Long stores in Ho Chi Minh City, supermarkets

• Price: ~60,000 – 120,000 VND (approx. 80 – 160 TWD)

4. Mủ Trôm (Vietnamese Snow Jelly)

Mu Trom – Snow Jelly from the Sterculia Foetida Tree

Mủ Trôm, or snow jelly, is a natural resin from the Sterculia foetida tree found in Southern Vietnam. It’s a popular ingredient in refreshing drinks, especially in hot weather. Rich in dietary fiber, minerals, and antioxidants, it aids digestion, detoxification, and skin hydration. When mixed with syrup, coconut milk, or ice, it turns into a cooling and silky-smooth beverage, loved by locals.

• Where to buy: Ben Thanh Market

• Price: ~170,000 – 200,000 VND (approx. 210 – 260 TWD)

5. Vietnamese Cashews (with Skin)

Vietnamese Cashew – Skin-on Cashews

The Binh Thuan Province in Southern Vietnam is one of the world’s top cashew-producing regions. These skin-on cashews are naturally processed without additives, preserving their original flavor and crunch. Whether plain, salted, or honey-roasted, they make a healthy and tasty snack. Vietnamese cashews are not only delicious but also packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals.

• Where to buy: Ben Thanh Market, supermarkets

• Price: ~100,000 – 200,000 VND (approx. 130 – 260 TWD)

6. Dried Lotus Seeds

Dried lotus seeds are a common ingredient in Vietnamese cooking, especially in the South. They’re used in soups, desserts, and even herbal dishes. Southern Vietnam is known for its high-quality lotus seeds, which are tender and mildly sweet. They’re believed to have calming and sleep-aiding properties, making them a thoughtful gift for elders or health-conscious friends.

• Where to buy: Ben Thanh Market, supermarkets

• Price: ~150,000 – 250,000 VND (approx. 195 – 325 TWD)

Whether it’s food, crafts, or local specialties, souvenirs from Southern Vietnam are full of cultural charm and heartfelt stories. Don’t miss the chance to bring home these unique items—and keep a piece of Vietnam’s warmth and beauty with you, wherever you go!