How Does Tipping Work in Vietnam?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Asia
1The Quick Answer
Tipping is not traditionally expected in Vietnam but is appreciated in tourist areas.
2What You Need to Know
Vietnam has no strong tipping culture, but the practice is becoming more common in tourist-facing businesses. At tourist restaurants, 10–15% is a welcome gesture; at local eateries, rounding up the bill is sufficient. Tip guides 20,000–50,000 VND for a half-day tour, and round up fares for xe om (motorbike taxi) drivers. Hotel staff and spa workers also appreciate small tips of 20,000–50,000 VND.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Use small denomination VND notes for tipping — always tip in cash directly to the person, not left on the table.
- 2For Grab motorbike or car rides, rounding up or adding a small tip through the app is appreciated but not expected.
- 3At upscale restaurants a service charge may already be included — check the bill before adding extra.
How does this compare?
Tipping rules in nearby and similar countries:
Do not tip in Japan. Tipping is considered rude and may cause embarrassment.
Tipping is appreciated and expected in tourist areas. 20–50 THB at restaurants, 20–100 THB for massage, round up taxi fares.
Do not tip in Singapore. A 10% service charge is automatically added to all restaurant bills. Tipping is not part of the culture.
Traveling to Vietnam?
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Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples or pagodas; everywhere else dress is casual and beach towns are very relaxed.
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The legal drinking age is 18, alcohol is widely available, and drinking in public is socially acceptable.
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