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Tipping in Vietnam: Customs, Amounts, and Local Etiquette
Wondering about tipping in Vietnam? Learn when, where, and how much to tip—from restaurants and taxis to tour guides and spas. A practical guide to local etiquette so you can avoid awkward moments and show respect.
Is tipping expected in Vietnam? Not always, but it’s increasingly common in touristy areas—and a little extra is often deeply appreciated. Understanding when, where, and how much to tip avoids awkward moments and lets you show respect for local service culture.
Tipping Culture in Vietnam: Quick Facts
Unlike some countries, Vietnam does not have a strong tipping tradition. Most Vietnamese don’t tip in daily life, but restaurants and services serving foreigners may expect small gratuities. Tips can be discreet—don’t stress over the perfect amount. If you loved the service, a tip goes a long way.
When (and Where) Should You Tip?
Restaurants & Cafés:
In street stalls or “quán cơm,” tips aren’t necessary or expected. At mid-range or upscale dining spots (especially in tourist zones), leaving small change or 5–10% of the bill is warmly received if not already included.
Hotels:
Bellhops and housekeeping staff appreciate 10,000–20,000 VND (about $0.50–$1 USD) per service. Tip at checkout for multi-day stays.
Taxis & Ride Apps:
Rounding up the fare is most common—no one expects a percentage. For longer or out-of-town trips, add 10,000–20,000 VND if you’re happy with the journey.
Spas & Salons:
Locals don’t always tip, but international travelers usually leave 10–15% for massages or beauty services. Place the tip directly in the person’s hand or at reception.
Guides & Drivers:
For a satisfied day tour, a tip of 50,000–100,000 VND per person for the guide and 30,000–50,000 VND for the driver is considered generous.
In street stalls or “quán cơm,” tips aren’t necessary or expected. At mid-range or upscale dining spots (especially in tourist zones), leaving small change or 5–10% of the bill is warmly received if not already included.
Hotels:
Bellhops and housekeeping staff appreciate 10,000–20,000 VND (about $0.50–$1 USD) per service. Tip at checkout for multi-day stays.
Taxis & Ride Apps:
Rounding up the fare is most common—no one expects a percentage. For longer or out-of-town trips, add 10,000–20,000 VND if you’re happy with the journey.
Spas & Salons:
Locals don’t always tip, but international travelers usually leave 10–15% for massages or beauty services. Place the tip directly in the person’s hand or at reception.
Guides & Drivers:
For a satisfied day tour, a tip of 50,000–100,000 VND per person for the guide and 30,000–50,000 VND for the driver is considered generous.
Table: Handy Tipping Guide - Vietnam
Service | Typical Tip (VND) | Typical Tip (USD) | Note |
Street Food Vendor | 0 | 0 | Not expected |
Casual Restaurant | 0–20,000 | $0–$0.80 | Round up small bills |
Upscale Restaurant | 10% of bill | Varies | Check if service charge added |
Bellhop/Housekeeping | 10,000–20,000 | $0.40–$0.80 | Per service/day |
Taxi/Grab | Rounding up/10,000 | $0.40 | Not obligatory |
Spa/Massage | 10–15% of service | Varies | Hand directly if possible |
Tour Guide | 50,000–100,000 | $2–$4 | Per guest/day |
How to Offer a Tip Politely
Tipping is typically done in cash, handed directly to the individual or left clearly on the table. Many staff members may politely refuse once—this is modesty, not disinterest. Gently insist once more, and your gesture will be accepted.
What About Service Charges?
Peak season for foreign tourists: December to March (comfortable, less rain, especially around Tet, Vietnamese New Year). Locals flock to beach towns and hills in June–August (school holidays).
FAQ: Tipping in Vietnam
Q: Is tipping offensive in Vietnam?
A: Not at all. While not required, tips are welcome, especially in tourist areas.
Q: What currency should I tip in?
A: Always tip in Vietnamese dong (VND) for convenience. USD or EUR are rarely practical for everyday workers.
Q: Do locals tip in Vietnam?
A: Rarely—in family or small businesses, it’s not a cultural habit. Travelers might notice this more during holidays like Tet or National Day, when restaurants and hotels get especially busy.
Q: Should I tip at homestays?
A: Not required, but leaving a thank-you envelope or small gratuity for the host is appreciated.
Q: How much do you tip for delivery?
A: Rounding up to the nearest 10,000 VND is more than enough. If you’re staying at tourist spots like Ba Na Hills, service staff may expect slightly more due to higher living costs there.
A: Not at all. While not required, tips are welcome, especially in tourist areas.
Q: What currency should I tip in?
A: Always tip in Vietnamese dong (VND) for convenience. USD or EUR are rarely practical for everyday workers.
Q: Do locals tip in Vietnam?
A: Rarely—in family or small businesses, it’s not a cultural habit. Travelers might notice this more during holidays like Tet or National Day, when restaurants and hotels get especially busy.
Q: Should I tip at homestays?
A: Not required, but leaving a thank-you envelope or small gratuity for the host is appreciated.
Q: How much do you tip for delivery?
A: Rounding up to the nearest 10,000 VND is more than enough. If you’re staying at tourist spots like Ba Na Hills, service staff may expect slightly more due to higher living costs there.