Quick Answer: Vietnam is easy to travel but has unique customs. Cross the road slowly and steadily, bargain at markets, carry small bills, and try the street food. These 15 tips will prepare you for an amazing trip.
Culture & Etiquette
1. Dress Modestly at Temples
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and pagodas. Remove shoes before entering. Some temples provide cover-ups, but don't count on it. Carry a scarf in your bag.
2. Don't Touch Anyone's Head
The head is considered sacred in Vietnamese culture. Never touch someone's head, even children. It's seen as disrespectful.
3. Use Both Hands for Giving
When giving or receiving items (especially business cards, gifts, money), use both hands or your right hand. Using two hands shows more respect. This applies to paying at restaurants too.
4. Respect the Elderly
Vietnamese culture deeply respects elders. Greet older people first, offer them your seat, and serve them food first. This is taken seriously.
Money & Payments
5. Carry Small Bills
Many places can't break large notes. Keep 10,000–50,000 VND notes ($0.40–2) for street food and small purchases. Ask for small bills when exchanging money or withdrawing from ATMs.
6. Bargain at Markets
Bargaining is expected at markets and with street vendors. Start at 50–60% of the asking price and meet in the middle. Fixed prices at malls, restaurants, and convenience stores. Don't bargain at food stalls — it's considered rude.
7. ATMs Are Everywhere
ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Withdraw VND for daily expenses. Some ATMs charge 30,000–60,000 VND ($1.20–2.40) per withdrawal. Vietcombank and Techcombank often have lower fees.
8. Dong (VND) is the Currency
Vietnamese Dong (VND). 1 USD ≈ 25,000 VND. Many prices are in thousands — "50" means 50,000 VND (~$2). Don't confuse 50,000 VND ($2) with 500,000 VND ($20) — the notes look similar!
⚠️ Watch the zeros: 50,000 VND (blue) and 500,000 VND (green) notes can be confused. Always count the zeros. 500,000 VND ≈ $20, not $2.
Getting Around
9. Crossing the Road is an Art
Traffic in Vietnam is chaotic. The secret: walk slowly and steadily. Don't stop or run. Motorbikes will flow around you. It feels terrifying at first but becomes natural after a few days. Make eye contact with drivers.
10. Use Grab Instead of Taxis
Grab (Southeast Asia's Uber) is safer and cheaper than taxis. Fixed price, no meter disputes. Works in all major cities. Download the app before arriving. Also works for motorbike rides (Grab Bike).
11. Motorbike Rental
Renting a motorbike ($5–10/day) is the best way to explore. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP). Always wear a helmet. Photograph the bike before renting. Don't ride at night or in heavy rain.
Food & Dining
12. Street Food is Amazing
Vietnamese street food is world-class and incredibly cheap. Don't be afraid of plastic-chair stalls — that's where the best food is. Must-try: Pho ($1), Banh Mi ($0.50), Bun Cha ($1.50), Egg Coffee ($1).
13. Coffee Culture
Vietnam is the world's second-largest coffee producer. Try "ca phe sua da" (iced coffee with condensed milk) and "ca phe trung" (egg coffee) in Hanoi. Vietnamese coffee is strong — you've been warned.
14. Water Safety
Don't drink tap water. Buy bottled water (cheap everywhere, $0.30–0.50). Ice in drinks is usually safe in restaurants and cafes. Avoid ice from street vendors.
Practical Tips
15. SIM Cards are Cheap
Buy a tourist SIM at the airport for $5–10 with unlimited data. Viettel has the best coverage nationwide. Mobifone and Vinaphone are also good. It's cheaper and faster than international roaming.
Other Practical Info
- Power outlets: Type A, C, and F. Bring a universal adapter.
- Language: English is spoken in tourist areas. Learn a few Vietnamese words: "xin chao" (hello), "cam on" (thank you), "xin loi" (excuse me).
- Time zone: UTC+7 (ICT). Same as Thailand, 1 hour behind China.
- Tipping: Not expected but appreciated. Round up or leave 10% at restaurants.
- Laundry: $1–2 per kg at hotels and laundromats. Don't overpack clothes.
- Toilets: Squat toilets are common outside tourist areas. Carry your own tissue. Don't flush paper — use the bin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vietnam safe for tourists?
Yes, Vietnam is very safe. Main risks are petty theft (bag snatching) and traffic accidents. Use common sense, watch your belongings in crowded areas, and use Grab instead of random taxis. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare.
How do I cross the road in Vietnam?
Walk slowly and steadily. Don't stop or run. Motorbikes will flow around you. Make eye contact with drivers. It feels terrifying at first but becomes natural after a few days. The key is to be predictable — don't make sudden movements.
Is Vietnamese street food safe to eat?
Yes. Street food is generally safe if cooked fresh in front of you. Eat at busy stalls with high turnover — high turnover means fresh food. Avoid pre-cut fruit and drink bottled water. Street food is often better than restaurant food in Vietnam.