Tipping Culture in Vietnam: All You Need to Know

Tipping is not a traditional part of Vietnamese culture, and you are generally not expected to tip in most situations. However, with the increasing influence of tourism and Western culture, tipping is becoming more common, especially in major cities and tourist hotspots. Whether you’re dining at a restaurant, hiring a tour guide, or enjoying a spa treatment, knowing the appropriate tipping etiquette in Vietnam can help you navigate your travels smoothly.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about tipping culture in Vietnam, including when to tip, how much to tip, and whether to use local or foreign currency.

All you need to know about tipping culture in Vietnam (Image Source: Internet)

About Tipping Culture in Vietnam

Vietnam tipping culture is not mandatory, and most locals do not expect tips for their services. However, small tips are greatly appreciated, especially in the service and hospitality industries where salaries are often low. 

A small gesture of appreciation, such as rounding up your bill or leaving a modest tip, is often welcomed. Don’t forget to add some common Vietnamese phrases like “cảm ơn” (thank you) or “không có gì” (you are welcome) to express your gratitude to waiters.

In larger cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang, tipping is more common due to the influence of international tourists. On the other hand, in rural areas and smaller towns, tipping is less common, and locals may not expect it.

How Much Do You Tip in Vietnam?

The amount you should tip in Vietnam depends on the type of service and the level of satisfaction with the service provided. You can easily find places for money exchange in Saigon. Below is a breakdown of tipping practices in different situations:

Tipping at restaurants

Tipping at restaurants is not mandatory but appreciated, especially in tourist-friendly establishments. Tipping isn’t expected at casual restaurants or street food vendors, but rounding up the bill by 10,000 – 20,000 VND (around $0.50–$1) is a kind gesture and also a small gift for waiters/waitresses. However, in mid-range or high-end restaurants, you can leave a tip of 5-10% of the total bill if there is no service charge included.

Tipping culture in Vietnam’s restaurants is not mandatory (Image Source: Internet)

Tipping at coffee shops and bars

At most coffee shops, tipping is not expected, but you can leave a small amount (around 10,000 – 20,000 VND or ~$0.50 – $1 USD) if the service was excellent. At bars, especially in tourist-heavy areas, tipping the bartender 10 – 15% of your bill or 20,000 – 50,000 VND is a nice gesture.

Tipping for taxi or Grab drivers

Tipping taxi drivers is not a common practice in Vietnam, for locals here too, but rounding up to the nearest 10,000 – 20,000 VND (less than $1 USD) is a polite way to show appreciation for good service. For longer rides or private car services, you can leave a tip of 5 – 10% of the total fare.

If they provide you with excellent quality, don’t hesitate to tip them extra (Image Source: Grab)

Tipping at hotels

Tipping in hotels is optional, just like Vietnam tipping culture at other tourist places, but it is a thoughtful way to reward good service. Here are our recommendations for you to tip at hotels:

• Bellboys: 10,000 – 20,000 VND per bag (around $0.50 – $1 USD).
• Housekeeping staff: 20,000 – 50,000 VND per day left in the room.
• Concierge: If they go out of their way to assist you, a tip of 50,000 – 100,000 VND is generous and appreciated.

Service at Vietnam hotels (Image Source: Internet)

Tipping at spas

Tipping is common in spas, especially in high-end establishments or resorts. A tip of 10 – 15% of the service cost or around 50,000 – 100,000 VND, is customary, depending on the quality of the service.

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Tipping culture in Vietnam is not mandatory, but it’s a meaningful way to show appreciation for good service. Whether you’re tipping a tour guide, taxi driver, or spa therapist, even small amounts can make a big difference to those working in the service industry.