Lavinia Woolf
Revered as a shopaholic's dream come true Hanoi offers an eclectic retail experience for the masses. From handicrafts to chic designer wear and textiles here are the city's must-visit shopping venues.
As one of the oldest streets in not only Hanoi but Vietnam as well, Hang Bac Street is a silver enthusiast's dream come true. With a rich heritage in silversmith work and the manufacturing of traditional silver items since the 13th century this iconic area in Hanoi is a must-visit highlight for souvenir hunters as well. During the 13 century most items for sale were manufacture in rural communities of the country. The ancient methods of producing exquisite silverware is still maintained as generation after generation pick up the secret skills and practices behind the shimmering home ware items of silver. Jewellery enthusiasts will also find beautiful pieces with Vietnamese motifs for sale here.
Another ancient market in the city this unique thoroughfare is one of Hanoi's most popular textile markets. As the most expansive textile market in the city shoppers will find fine fabrics in the colors, textures and styles of their choice. Textiles made in Korea, Japan, and China and locally are sold here at affordable rates.
Those with a flair for the latest trends off the catwalks of Paris and Milan however will find this sprawling shopping complex a true treasure trove. Luxury brands and goods are the order of the day in this three floor mall featuring flagship Sony and Levis outlets. Fashion items, clothing and consumer electronics from well-known labels and foreign manufacturers are available here.
Regarded as a one-stop hub for all shoe lovers Hang Dau Street is a shopper's street littered with more than 100 shoe vendors. Women's footwear reigns supreme in this curious retail heartland devoted to heels, pumps and every conceivable variety of footwear known to man. Items that are locally produced for globally renowned shoe brands are also found here at a fraction of the cost while reproductions of popular style icons in footwear are also found here. Located near the Lo Su Junction Hang Dau Street occupies the northeastern edge of Hoan Kiem Lake.
A popular stopover for tourists since time immemorial the Dong Xuan Market hold the distinct honor of being Hanoi's most expansive enclosed marketplace. As a larger than life space that resembles a traditional thoroughfare in the country the Dong Xuan Market is a cultural icon in its own right. Consisting of three floors the venue is littered with hawker kiosks. The best time to visit the market is during the early morning hours of late in the evening. Hot-pick items at this massive market include t-shirts, home decor items, handbags and artwork while pirated paraphernalia is also found in abundance at this bustling commercial space. Situated in the city's Old Quarter the venue is a mere 900m from the Hoan Kiem Lake. Tourists occupying serviced accommodation in Hanoi in establishments such as the Somerset West Lake Hanoi are within close proximity of this venue.
