Plan Your Trip
Tipping & Etiquette in Hanoi
Tipping in Vietnam is far less rigid than in the US, but it's becoming more common in tourist-facing businesses — here's a realistic sense of what's expected, and a few etiquette basics worth knowing.
Tipping norms
- Restaurants — not traditionally expected, and rarely included automatically outside upscale venues, but rounding up or leaving a modest amount for good service is appreciated, especially at tourist-oriented restaurants.
- Tour guides & drivers — tipping is genuinely expected here, particularly on multi-day trips (Ha Long Bay, Sapa, Ha Giang) — a modest per-day amount from each traveller is standard practice.
- Taxis & Grab — not expected, though rounding up the fare is a common, appreciated gesture.
- Massage & spa — a small tip for the therapist is customary at most spas, particularly at mid-range and higher-end venues.
Temple & pagoda etiquette
- Dress modestly — shoulders and knees covered — before entering any temple or pagoda.
- Remove shoes where signage or locals indicate it.
- Keep your voice down and avoid pointing your feet toward any Buddha statue or altar when sitting.
- Ask before photographing people in prayer, even where photography of the building itself is permitted.
General social customs
- A slight nod or small bow with a smile is a warm, low-effort way to greet, especially with older people.
- Both hands (or your right hand supported by your left) are the polite way to give or receive money, business cards, or gifts.
- Public displays of anger or raised voices are considered a loss of face for everyone involved, including yourself — staying calm gets better results even when something goes wrong.