30 Common Vietnamese Phrases for Tourists

Traveling to Vietnam is an exciting journey filled with breathtaking landscapes, delicious cuisine, and vibrant culture. If you have one day to explore Ho Chi Minh City, learning a few Vietnamese phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and connecting with locals. 

Whether you’re visiting bustling cities or exploring remote villages, these expressions recommended by Lua Viet Tours will help you navigate with ease.

Overview about Vietnamese Phrases

Vietnamese is a language with multiple tones and an alphabet consisting of 29 characters, which can be challenging for beginners. However, if you’re visiting Vietnam for a short time, there’s no need to master everything. Here are the top 30 recommended Vietnamese phrases that every traveler should know.

Learning common Vietnamese phrases will enhance your travel experience in Vietnam

Vietnamese Phrases for Greetings

Whether you’re starting a conversation, meeting someone for the first time, or simply passing by, these common Vietnamese phrases for greetings will help you navigate social interactions with ease. From a warm “Xin chào” (Hello) to a polite “Chào buổi sáng” (Good Morning), these phrases are simple yet impactful ways to engage with the friendly people of Vietnam.

Vietnamese Phrases for Shopping and Dining

When visiting local markets or dining at restaurants and hotels in Vietnam, knowing a few basic Vietnamese phrases can greatly enhance your experience.

Visitors experiencing Vietnam local street food

At local markets

Being able to use common Vietnamese phrases not only makes communication easier but also helps when bargaining with vendors at local markets like Ben Thanh Market or Nguyen Van Troi Market. For example, learning how to ask for prices or negotiate politely can lead to a more authentic shopping experience.

>>> Read more: Top Saigon Markets You Cannot Miss for the Ultimate Shopping Experience

At hotels and restaurants

Combining useful Vietnamese phrases with English can be a wonderful way to connect with locals, show cultural respect, and navigate situations more effectively. It could be once you order a dish or request assistance; a mix of both languages will make your interaction smoother and more memorable.

Vietnamese Phrases Asking for Help 

It’s not difficult to find Vietnamese people who can communicate in English, especially in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and Hoi An. So, don’t hesitate to ask “Can you speak English?” first when you need assistance. If you want to showcase your communication skills, try applying Lua Viet Tours’ suggestions below. Adding a bit of body language can also help convey your message more effectively to the locals!

Don’t hesitate to ask for help with locals

Ready to explore Vietnam’s beauty, history, and culture? Start practicing these common Vietnamese phrases today! Whether you’re bargaining at a market, enjoying local street food, or asking for directions, these expressions will enrich your Vietnam trip.