Tipping in Vietnam: Useful Tips for a Hassle-Free, Enjoyable Trip

Tipping in Vietnam is not a norm, and understanding the local context is essential before deciding to leave a tip. While Vietnam doesn’t have a strong tipping culture like the U.S. or Europe, a small tip is always appreciated, especially in tourism-related services.

Understanding local tipping customs helps you travel respectfully and avoid awkward moments. In this guide, Prime Travel will break down everything you need to know about tipping in Vietnam: the tipping culture here and general advice on how much to tip in Vietnam.

Tipping in Vietnam: Is it common?

Tipping in Vietnam isn’t a long-standing tradition like in some Western countries, so it is not a common practice here. In some cases, some locals may be surprised or even confused if you try to tip them.

Vietnamese culture values hospitality and good service as a standard, not something that requires extra payment. While tipping in Vietnam is not considered offensive, it’s not expected the way it is in countries like the United States.

For many Vietnamese, offering great service is simply part of their job, and they don’t anticipate additional payment. That said, tipping is becoming more and more familiar in tourism-heavy areas and upscale establishments.

Rather than assuming a tip is necessary, think of it as a kind gesture for truly excellent service that can go a long way for food and beverage and other service industry workers. It’s less about money and more about appreciation.

If you want to show gratitude, a friendly smile, a polite “Cảm ơn” (thank you), and respectful behavior often mean just as much.

How Much to Tip in Vietnam

The following tipping suggestions are just based on our knowledge and experience in Vietnam. Tipping in Vietnam is not mandatory, and the amount you give should reflect your personal comfort level and the quality of service you experienced.

However, if you want to show appreciation for exceptional service, use your best judgment. Any tip, big or small, is appreciated as a kind gesture.

Restaurants & cafes

If you are curious whether you must tip at restaurants or not, the answer is no. Tipping at restaurants and cafes in Vietnam isn’t usually expected, especially at local eateries.

Most places do not include service charges in the bill, but expect that some restaurants might include VAT (Value Added Tax). Plus, staffs are often paid regular wages without relying on tips.

However, if you dine at mid-range or upscale restaurants, especially those catering to tourists, leaving a small tip is a thoughtful way to show appreciation.

A tip of 5–10% of the bill is more than enough for attentive service at sit-down restaurants. Besides that, if there is leftover change after paying your bill, it is not unusual to let the waiter keep it.

In casual cafes or coffee shops, it’s common to round up the bill or leave a small amount, like 10,000–20,000 VND (less than $1 USD). While this isn’t necessary, staff will appreciate the gesture.

Don’t worry if you forget to tip; it won’t be considered rude. Many Vietnamese locals don’t tip when dining out. If you do want to reward excellent service, hand the tip directly to your server rather than leaving it on the table, as some staff may not be allowed to collect it that way.

Hotels & accommodations

Tipping at hotels in Vietnam is appreciated but not required. Staff members don’t usually expect tips, but small gestures of thanks go a long way, especially at high-end or international hotels.

For bellhops or porters, a tip of 10,000–20,000 VND per bag (about $0.50–$1 USD) is common. Housekeeping staff may be tipped around 20,000–50,000 VND per day, left in an envelope or clearly marked spot in the room.

Budget hotels and homestays usually don’t expect tips, but friendly service can still be rewarded with a small token of thanks. As always, tipping in Vietnam is more about expressing gratitude than following strict rules.

Read more>>>Where to stay in Hanoi Vietnam – Top Hotel Picks in 2024

Tour guides & drivers

Tipping tour guides and drivers is more common in Vietnam’s tourism industry, especially for multi-day tours or private services. While it is a personal choice and based on the quality of service provided, it’s a meaningful way to thank them for their effort, knowledge, and care.

For a full-day private tour, Prime Travel suggests tipping your guide around 80,000-130,000 VND (about $3–$5 USD) per person. Drivers usually receive slightly less, around 50,000–100,000 VND per person. For group tours, a smaller amount is fine, depending on group size and service.

If the guide goes above and beyond, like helping with translation, arranging special requests, or showing personal care, feel free to be more generous. Even a modest tip will be warmly received.

For half-day or shorter tours, tips can be adjusted accordingly. A tip of 50,000 VND for guides and 20,000–30,000 VND for drivers is still thoughtful.

At the end of the day, tipping in Vietnam is totally not customary; if you don’t feel happy about the service, you shouldn’t tip at all.

Massages, Spas & Salons

Even though it’s not required, tipping at spas, salons, and massage parlors in Vietnam is generally appreciated, especially in tourist-friendly areas. This service feels more like a personalized service

The general baseline for tipping masseuses, beauty technicians, and other grooming providers is 10% to 20% of the total bill. If the massage is longer or more specialized, you may choose to tip more.

Some high-end spas may already include a service charge in the bill, so it’s worth checking first.

At hair salons or barbershops, tipping your hairdresser or barber is a thoughtful gesture, particularly if you’re happy with the results. These tips go directly to the staff and are appreciated even in upscale locations. You can give the tip directly by hand or leave it discreetly at the counter

Taxis & ride-hailing apps

Tipping taxi drivers in Vietnam is not mandatory, but a small gesture of appreciation is always welcome. From time to time, Vietnamese locals round up the fare or leave a tip of 10,000–20,000 VND for helpful or friendly drivers.

If your driver assists with luggage or takes a longer trip without complaints, consider giving a bit more. However, don’t feel pressured, drivers won’t expect it and won’t be offended if you don’t tip.

For ride-hailing apps like Grab or Be, tipping can be done directly in cash or through the app after your ride. A digital tip of 5,000–15,000 VND is considered generous for short trips.

Read more>>>Road Safety and Traffic in Vietnam: A COMPLETE Guide for First-Timers

When Not to Tip: Situations Where Tipping Isn’t Expected

Tipping in Vietnam is appreciated in many tourist-related services, but it’s not expected everywhere. In fact, in some settings, offering a tip might even confuse the locals.

Local Eateries and Street Vendors

At small food stalls, family-run eateries, or local markets, tipping is uncommon. Prices are usually fixed and already low.

These businesses operate on thin margins, and service is often provided by the owners themselves. A warm smile and polite thank-you (“Cảm ơn”) are more than enough to show your appreciation.

However, if you feel their service was exceptional and want to leave a tip as a kind gesture, feel free—but be prepared for some polite refusal at first.

Government Services and Formal Offices

Tipping is not practiced and can be seen as inappropriate in government-run services, hospitals, or public transportation. Staff in these roles are salaried and not allowed to accept extra money. In such situations, tipping might unintentionally appear as a bribe rather than a kind gesture.

If you’re unsure whether to tip, simply observe what the locals do or ask your guide for advice. In Vietnam, kindness and politeness often mean more than money.

Tipping Etiquette: How to Tip Politely in Vietnam

As anywhere in the world, when you choose to tip in Vietnam, doing it respectfully matters. Hand the tip directly to the person who served you, with a smile and a simple “Cảm ơn” (thank you). Leaving small change on the table is fine in restaurants, but handing it over shows more appreciation.

Use local currency when possible. While USD is sometimes accepted, smaller businesses and service staff prefer Vietnamese dong for convenience. For the most part, you should tip in cash; clean and crisp bills are considered more polite than crumpled ones.

Avoid being flashy or over-generous in very modest settings, like rural areas or street vendors. While your gesture may be kind, it could make people feel uncomfortable or confused. In these cases, a kind word and a thank-you might be more appropriate.

Finally, remember that tipping is voluntary. The key is to be genuine, discreet, and thoughtful. A little kindness goes a long way in Vietnam!

FAQs About Tipping in Vietnam

Is it considered rude not to tip in Vietnam?

No, it’s not considered rude. Tipping is not deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture, and locals do not expect it in most situations. Service workers are generally paid a fixed salary, and good service is part of their professional pride. That said, a small tip for excellent service is appreciated, but it’s never required.

Can you tip with USD in Vietnam?

Yes, you can tip with US dollars, especially in touristy areas where staff are more familiar with foreign currency. However, it’s better to tip in Vietnamese dong. It saves the staff from having to exchange money and avoids any confusion with rates or acceptance. Keep small bills handy for this purpose.

Do locals tip each other?

Once in a while, but not too often. Locals typically do not tip one another in daily life. In local eateries, barbershops, or taxis, tipping is rare. Instead, Vietnamese people often show appreciation with words, smiles, or by becoming regular customers. Tipping has become more common among locals in luxury settings, but it’s still the exception, not the rule.

Highly recommend Vietnam tours in Vietnam

• 14-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey Through Vietnam

• 14-Day Vietnam Soft Adventure

• 10-Day Mekong Delta Cultural Experience from Vietnam to Cambodia

>>>>>Explore more>>>>>>>

Essential Da Nang Guide and Itinerary: Best Things to Do for Travelers 2025

Visit Vietnam In July – Weather, Traditional Festival and Best Places To Visit 2025

Vietnam Tours From Australia: Best Tours And Holiday Packages 2025