Tipping Culture in Vietnam: When, Who and How Much?
Is Tipping Expected in Vietnam?
Unlike some Western countries, tipping in Vietnam is not mandatory—but it’s increasingly appreciated, especially in tourism and hospitality. While locals rarely tip in daily life, foreign travelers are often expected to tip for good service.
Tipping shows gratitude and can make a big difference for service workers, whose base wages are usually modest.
When Should You Tip in Vietnam?
Here are the common situations where a tip is welcomed:
| Service Type | Tipping Expected? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Restaurants (mid/high-end) | Yes | 5–10% if service charge isn’t included |
| Cafés / Street food | Optional | Round up the bill or leave small change |
| Hotels (staff, porters) | Yes | ~20,000–50,000 VND per service |
| Tour Guides | Highly Recommended | 100,000–200,000 VND per day |
| Drivers (private car/van) | Yes | 50,000–100,000 VND per trip/day |
| Taxi/Grab drivers | Optional | Round up to nearest 10,000 VND |
| Spas / Salons | Yes | 10% or 20,000–50,000 VND |
| Delivery services | Rare | Only tip for outstanding service |
| Tattoo | Optional | Only tip if your tattoo quality exceed your expectation |
How Much Should You Tip?
There’s no fixed rule, but here are rough guidelines:
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Restaurants (no service charge): 5–10% of the bill
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Hotels:
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Bellboy: 20,000 VND/bag
-
Housekeeping: 20,000–50,000 VND/day
-
-
Tour guide (group tour): 100,000–150,000 VND/day
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Private guide: 200,000–300,000 VND/day
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Massage therapist: 50,000–100,000 VND (in cash)
Tip in cash and preferably hand it directly to the staff with a smile or a “Cảm ơn” (thank you in Vietnamese).
Tipping Etiquette: Do’s & Don’ts
Do tip in Vietnamese Dong (VND) – avoid tipping in foreign currency.
Do tip discreetly, especially in more traditional settings.
Do leave tips after the service, not before.
Don’t feel forced to tip if the service was poor or rushed.
Don’t overtip dramatically, as it may create unrealistic expectations.
Final Thoughts
Tipping in Vietnam isn’t a must—but a small gesture goes a long way. Whether you’re thanking a friendly guide or rewarding exceptional hotel service, a modest tip can brighten someone's day. It's not about the amount—it’s about appreciation.
Want to learn more Vietnam travel tips?
Check out our other guides for street food, scams to avoid, and how to explore like a local.
Must-Try Eateries in Hanoi: A Local Food Lover’s Guide
5 Must-Visit Places in Vietnam – Discover Culture & Inspiration for Your Next Tattoo
