Tipping in Vietnam: Who Expects It, How Much, and When Not to Bother

Tipping isn't a traditional part of Vietnamese culture. Nobody at a phở stall expects anything beyond the price of the bowl. But tourism has brought some tipping habits with it, and in a few situations a tip is now normal. Here's where it matters and where it doesn't.

Street food and local restaurants: no

At street stalls, small family restaurants and local cafés, tipping isn't expected. Pay the bill, say *cảm ơn* (thank you), and that's it. If you leave a few thousand dong of change, nobody will mind, but nobody is waiting for it.

Mid-range and upscale restaurants: check the bill first

Many sit-down restaurants in tourist areas and hotels add a service charge (often around 5%) and VAT (around 8–10%) to the bill. If service charge is already there, you don't need to tip more.

If there's no service charge and the service was good, rounding up or leaving around 5–10% is appreciated.

Grab and taxis: optional

Ride-hailing drivers don't expect a tip. Many visitors round up for cash rides, or add a small tip in the app after a long trip, heavy luggage or a ride in the rain. Taxi drivers often keep small change; that's normal.

Spas and massage: yes, usually

Tipping at spas and massage places is common, and staff often rely on it. Around 50,000–100,000 VND per person for a standard massage is typical in local places; more for long treatments at higher-end spas. Some spas include a fixed tip in the price; ask if you're not sure.

Tour guides and drivers: yes, if they did a good job

On day trips and private tours, tipping the guide and driver at the end is common practice now. As a rough guide:

• Group day tour: around 50,000–100,000 VND per person for the guide.
• Private guide: more, depending on the length and quality.
• Driver: a smaller amount than the guide.

Hand it over directly, with a thank you.

Hotel staff

• Porters: 20,000–50,000 VND for carrying bags is a kind gesture.
• Housekeeping: optional. Some people leave a small amount at the end of their stay.

Boat rowers in Ninh Bình

The women and men who row the boats in Tràng An and Tam Cốc often receive a small tip, around 20,000–50,000 VND per person. They may also try to sell drinks or snacks; buying one is a polite alternative.

How to tip without awkwardness

• Use cash in Vietnamese dong, not foreign coins.
• Hand it over with both hands or your right hand, with a smile.
• Don't feel obliged to tip where it isn't customary; overtipping in local places can create awkward expectations for the next visitor.

Written in October 2026. Customs vary by place; these are typical amounts, not rules.