Ninh Binh Shopping Guide: Authentic Souvenirs and Bargaining Secrets

19/10/2025

Discover the best souvenirs in Ninh Binh! What are the local gifts in Trang An, Tam Coc... Ninh Binh, and where's the best and most affordable place to buy them? Plus must-know bargaining secrets.

Food and souvenirs are sold at an affordable price

What are the best things to buy in Ninh Binh, and where can you find them at local prices?
Ninh Binh, just a few hours from Hanoi, is known for its tranquil landscapes, ancient temples, and traditional village life. Beyond its breathtaking scenery, the province offers many authentic local products and souvenirs that reflect Vietnamese culture and craftsmanship.

This guide introduces the top souvenirs to buy, where to shop in Ninh Binh, and useful bargaining tips to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

What to buy in Ninh Binh

In front of Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, you can find a Vietnamese traditional hat for 1-2 USD

When visiting, many travellers wonder: What should I buy in Ninh Binh? or Where can I find good souvenirs?
Unlike Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, Ninh Binh doesn’t have big malls. Shopping here happens mostly in local markets, craft villages, and tourist areas. Here’s a list of the most popular items you can bring home:

Traditional Conical Hats (Non La)

Non La is a great item to take photos with

Vietnam is famous for its conical hats, and Ninh Binh is no exception. The non la, also known as the nón lá, is a traditional Vietnamese conical hat that has been worn for centuries. It is an iconic symbol of Vietnam and is often seen as a symbol of elegance, beauty, and femininity.

The Non La hat is made from a variety of natural materials. In Ninh Binh, you’ll find handmade hats crafted from bamboo and palm leaves, often beautifully decorated.

Price: 1-2 USD only for a normal hat. Higher price for a better hat (10-50 USD)
Tip: Buy one early in your trip to use as a sun hat and for great travel photos!

However, when you get on a boat in Trang An, it's hard to buy anything, so buy it at the station before you jump on a boat

You can find intricately decorated non la, the traditional Vietnamese conical hat, as a stylish and practical souvenir. You should buy it at the beginning of the tour so you can use the hat to avoid the sun and take great pictures.

Vietnamese clothes

Ao Dai is a perfect item, but limits your movement, not suitable for a long day trip

At Hoa Lu Market, you can find Ao Dai (traditional dress), handmade scarves, and handbags.

Hang Mua view point - where you can take the best pics in Tam Coc

However, if you just want to take pictures with Vietnamese clothes, you can rent them at some shops near Hang Mua or Hoa Lu Ancient Town. Price varies depending on each set (From $5)

Is Mua Cave Worth in your Ninh Binh Bucket List? The perfect way to include Mua Cave in your Ninh Binh Trip

Decorative items in Bai Dinh - Trang An

Don't forget to spend time shopping at the foot of Bai Dinh Pagoda

Both Bai Dinh Pagoda and Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex offer small shops selling spiritual and decorative items, from bamboo ornaments to small wooden sculptures.
These cost around $1–$2 per item and make thoughtful souvenirs that reflect Ninh Binh’s peaceful spirit.

All things are handmade and environmentally friendly

Explore the shopping areas around Trang An or Bai Dinh Gate to find your favourite. There are many great items (just $1-$2/item) made from local wood, bamboo or stone.

Ninh Binh Crispy Rice – a speciality of Ninh Binh

Com Chay - Crispy Rice is a must try (not for those who follow Halal food)

This crispy rice snack is one of Ninh Binh’s most famous specialities. It’s light, crunchy, and flavoured with dried shrimp or pork floss - a perfect travel gift for family and friends.
Tip: Available at most tourist stops or local shops for about $2 per pack.

You can buy and keep them in your suitcase, it's light and has a long expiration date

You can also find some kind of dried fruits and local snacks. These can make for tasty and authentic souvenirs that reflect the flavours of Vietnam. The price is from $2

Other Natural Products

Ninh Binh also produces honey, herbal teas, and essential oils, often made by local families.
These natural products are ideal gifts for those who appreciate wellness and authentic handmade goods.

Where to Shop in Ninh Binh

Dragon Market (Cai Rong Market in Ninh Binh)

Address: No. 71 Van Giang Street, Ninh Binh City
Opening hours: 6 AM - 6 PM

Where is the best spot to buy some Ninh Binh souvenirs? Dragon Market

It's a local market - go there to see local life as well.

Located near the city centre, Dragon Market is one of the biggest and most vibrant markets in Ninh Binh.
Here you can find everything from fresh local produce, handmade crafts, clothing, and traditional snacks.
It’s the best place to experience local daily life and find authentic souvenirs at local prices.
The best time to visit is early morning (6–9 AM), when the market is most active.

**Please note: Language barrier, because many local vendors here cannot speak English

Ninh Binh Night Market

Ninh Binh Night Market is also a famous Walking Street in Ninh Binh

In the evening, head to the Ninh Binh Night Market. It’s a great spot for buying small gifts, tasting street food, and enjoying the lively local atmosphere.
Many stalls sell bamboo crafts, stone carvings, souvenirs, T-shirts, and snacks. Prices are reasonable, and bargaining is expected.
Tip: Try local street foods while shopping, such as grilled skewers, rice pancakes, and sugarcane juice.

Hoa Lu Ancient Town Made Easy: Top Things to See and Do, Day and Night

Bargain tips in Ninh Binh

In front of Mua Cave, you find many places for clothes renting

Bargaining is part of the fun when shopping in local markets. Here are some tips to help you get the best deals:

Always smile and be polite; friendliness goes a long way.
Start your offer about 30–40% lower than the asking price.
Know basic prices before shopping, and use VND (Vietnamese Dong) instead of USD for better rates.
Bundle multiple items to ask for a better total deal.
If the price doesn’t fit your budget, politely walk away; sellers may call you back with a discount.
Remember, the goal is to find a fair price that both you and the seller are comfortable with.

How much should I spend in Ninh Binh? Time and Budget Plan for Ninh Binh Trips

Things to note when shopping in Ninh Binh

Be careful with the banknotes 20,000đ and 500,000đ when paying - they look nearly the same

Pay in Vietnamese Dong (VND) for fair rates.
Watch your belongings in crowded markets.
Avoid bargaining too much in early morning hours (it’s believed to bring bad luck to sellers).
Check expiration dates when buying food.
Don’t hesitate to ask locals or vendors for help; most are friendly and happy to guide tourists.

Top-Rated Tours in Ninh Binh: Best-Selling Tours & Review and Tips

In conclusion, you can easily Ninh Binh local crafts at affordable prices, starting from just $1. Additionally, there are various other souvenir options available at the rest stops. When shopping, it's advisable to bargain for a better deal. Shopping here becomes more engaging as you discover the local artistic diversity and creativity. Hope this Ninh Binh shopping guide contributes to your Ninh Binh experience.