Vietnam is relaxed, friendly and easy to travel, and locals do not expect visitors to know every custom. A handful of habits, though, smooth the way and a few genuine mistakes are worth avoiding, especially around temples, money and the famous traffic. Here are the do's and don'ts that matter in Vietnam. For the practical side of planning, see our Vietnam travel guide.
Temples and dress
- Do cover your shoulders and knees at pagodas and temples, and remove your shoes where signs or others do.
- Don't point your feet at Buddha images or people, and do not touch anyone on the head.
- Do ask before photographing people, monks or inside temples.
Crossing the road
- Do step out slowly and steadily into the scooter traffic and keep a constant pace. The riders flow around you.
- Don't stop suddenly, run or leap backwards, which is what causes accidents.
- Do use pedestrian crossings and quieter corners where you can, especially in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.
Money and bargaining
- Do bargain politely in markets and with street vendors, but not in shops and restaurants with fixed prices.
- Don't lose your temper over small sums. A smile gets a better price than an argument.
- Do carry small notes, since the dong has many zeros and vendors may not have change for large bills.
- Don't feel you must tip, though it is appreciated for guides, drivers and good restaurant service.
Scams and safety to avoid
- Don't get in an unmetered taxi. Use Grab or a reputable metered company to avoid inflated fares.
- Do agree the price of a cyclo or motorbike ride before you get on.
- Don't hand your passport to a motorbike rental shop, and check any scooter for damage before you ride.
- Do watch your bag on the arm away from the road, since bag snatching from scooters happens in big cities.
Would rather someone else handled the bookings? A Vietnam tour package covers hotels, transfers and tours in one plan.
Frequently asked questions
What should you not do in Vietnam?
Do not wear revealing clothing at temples, do not point your feet at people or Buddha images, and do not take unmetered taxis. Avoid losing your temper when bargaining and never hand your passport to a rental shop.
How do you cross the road in Vietnam?
Step out slowly and walk at a steady, predictable pace through the scooter traffic without stopping or running. The riders anticipate your movement and flow around you. Sudden stops are what cause problems.
Is tipping expected in Vietnam?
Tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated and increasingly common for tour guides, drivers and good service in restaurants. Rounding up the bill or leaving small change is a normal gesture.
Should I bargain in Vietnam?
Yes, politely, in markets and with street vendors, where prices are flexible. Do not bargain in shops, supermarkets or restaurants that display fixed prices. Keep it friendly and be ready to walk away.
More Vietnam travel guides
- Vietnam Travel Guide: Visa, Money, Transport and Tips
- Vietnam Itinerary: How Many Days and Sample 7 to 15 Day Routes
- 12 Best Places to Visit in Vietnam: North to South
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