Local currency in Vietnam

1. Vietnamese currency
2. Cash withdrawals and currency exchange
3. Card payments in Vietnam
4. Local price
5. Safety and security
6. Tips

1. Vietnamese currency

The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese đồng, symbolized by ₫ or VND. Vietnamese banknotes are a mix of small denomination notes (coins are not used) and larger denomination polymer notes, with values ranging from 10,000 VND to 500,000 VND. If all those zeros confuse you, mentally remove three zeros to get a simpler number. To quickly convert from VND to USD, just remove three zeros and divide by 25.

2. Cash withdrawals and currency exchange

When arriving in Vietnam, it is advisable to have some cash in the local currency with you. ATMs that accept international cards are available at the arrival gates of all major airports. ATMs are widespread in Vietnamese cities, and you should have no trouble finding one in most destinations. International cards such as Visa are accepted at over 20,000 ATMs nationwide. If you need help finding the nearest ATM, simply ask at your hotel. Withdrawal limits per transaction range from VND 2 million (just under $100) to VND 3 million at local bank ATMs and from VND 5 million to VND 10 million at international bank ATMs.

You can also find currency exchange counters inside Vietnam's international airports, just before the departure gates. Once you arrive at your destination, you can usually exchange currency at your hotel, tourist attractions, and local banks.

3. Card payments in Vietnam

Although cash is used in Vietnam for small purchases and at street vendors, most businesses accept payments with major credit cards, such as Visa. Hotels, tour operators, boutiques, restaurants, grocery stores, and spas generally accept international debit and credit cards. Conversion rates and transaction fees will be determined by the card provider. With a few exceptions, most major travel expenses in Vietnam can be covered by card, either locally or online in advance, reducing the need to carry and convert large amounts of cash during your trip.

4. Local price

Are you wondering how much money to budget for your trip to Vietnam? If you're on a tight budget, eating street food and staying in private accommodations is a great way to have an enriching experience in Vietnam. If you have a slightly higher budget, Vietnam's mid-range hotels and local restaurants offer excellent value for money and friendly service. And if you're here to treat yourself to a little luxury, our five-star accommodations and private tours offer excellent quality and unforgettable moments. See the list below for some average prices:

• Coffee on the sidewalk - 40,000 VND (1.6 USD)
• Street food meal - 50,000 VND (2 USD)
• Cappuccino in a bar - 75,000 VND (3 USD)
• Three-course meal at a restaurant - 500,000 (20 USD)/person
• Taxi in the city center - 55,000 to 200,000 VND (2 to 8 USD)
• 60-minute foot massage at a local spa - 450,000 VND (18 USD)
• Budget hostel - 500,000 VND (20 USD)/night
• Mid-range hotel - 900,000 VND (36 USD)/night
• Half-day group tour - from 1 million VND (40 USD)
• Luxury hotel – around 4.5 million VND (180 USD)/night

5. Safety and security

Vietnam is generally very safe for travelers. You can go out at night without any worries, but it is a good idea to use common sense, keep an eye on your money, and avoid drawing attention to your valuables when in public. When going out, it is advisable to use the hotel safe to store cash, cards, and valuables. Keep your wallets and bags close to you and be especially careful in crowded places. Cards equipped with security technology, such as Visa's 3D Secure system, can help protect you from loss or fraud and reduce concerns about the security of your money.

6. Tips

There are no fixed rules regarding tipping in Vietnam, but tipping is recommended to service providers during your trip as a way of expressing your respect, your satisfaction with the quality of service received, a way of encouraging local people to maintain their passion for their work, and a way of thanking those who serve you.

Small tips bring great value to workers.

Suggested tips:

• Boatman/waiter/bartender: $1–2 per person
• Driver: $2–3 per person
• Tour guide: $4–5 per person