Vietnam Etiquette Guide: Cultural Dos and Don'ts for Travellers

Vietnam Etiquette Guide: Cultural Dos and Don'ts for Travellers

Small etiquette missteps — pointing with your feet, public displays of anger, or handing money with one hand — can come...

HolidaySG

HolidaySG Travel Team

September 16, 2026

6 min read 25 views

Small etiquette missteps — pointing with your feet, public displays of anger, or handing money with one hand — can come across as disrespectful in Vietnam even when unintentional. This guide covers the cultural norms worth knowing.

HUE CITY TOUR - HolidaySG
Vietnam Etiquette Guide: Cultural Dos and Don'ts for Travellers

Small etiquette missteps — pointing with your feet, public displays of anger, or handing money with one hand — can come across as disrespectful in Vietnam even when unintentional. This guide covers the cultural norms worth knowing.

Quick Facts

📍 DestinationVietnam
🎫 Activities Referenced8 bookable experiences
💰 Price Range₫7 – ₫65
🏙️ Cities CoveredDa Nang, Phu Quoc, Hue, Nha Trang, Hanoi
✍️ AuthorHolidaySG Editorial
🏢 AgencyLicensed Singapore TA04014

General Social Etiquette in Vietnam

Respect for elders, modest dress at religious sites, and staying calm during disagreements all matter more in Vietnamese culture than many Western visitors expect.

HUE CITY TOUR - HolidaySG
Car Charter With Driver - Hour Rate
ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport - HolidaySG

Car Charter With Driver - Hour Rate

Explore the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An and the stunning coastlines of Da Nang with our private car charter with driver service. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of a professional chauffeur whi...

  • • Cost-saving hourly rate means you pay only for the time you need, making it budg...
  • • Best time: The best time to visit Hoi An and Da Nang is from February t...
  • • Duration: We recommend booking a minimum of 2 to 3...
From ₫34 Da Nang Everyone
View Details & Book →
Da Nang - Hoi An City Transfers - HolidaySG
Da Nang - Hoi An City Transfers
ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport - HolidaySG

Da Nang - Hoi An City Transfers

Enjoy a seamless and comfortable one-way transfer between Da Nang city center and the ancient town of Hoi An. Our reliable service ensures a stress-free journey in modern, air-conditioned vehicles, le...

  • • Experienced local drivers provide direct hotel or location pickup in Da Nang cit...
  • • Best time: The best time to travel between Da Nang and Hoi An is during...
  • • Duration: The one-way transfer between Da Nang and...
From ₫15 Da Nang Convenience
View Details & Book →
3 Islands & Cable Car With Buffet By Speedboat - Book tickets on HolidaySG

3 Islands & Cable Car With Buffet By Speedboat

Book 3 Islands & Cable Car With Buffet By Speedboat - Tours - Phu Quoc online at HolidaySG. E-tickets emailed after our team confirms your booking.

From ₫65 Phu Quoc Beach lovers
View Details & Book →
HUE CITY TOUR - Book tickets on HolidaySG

HUE CITY TOUR

Journey from Da Nang to Vietnam's ancient imperial capital on this full-day Hue City Tour, where centuries of dynastic history unfold through magnificent tombs, sacred pagodas, and the iconic Imperial...

  • • The route takes you through the legendary Hai Van Tunnel and over the Hai Van Pa...
  • • Best time: The best time to visit Hue is from January to August, when t...
  • • Duration: This is a full-day tour lasting approxim...
From ₫26 Hue Explorers
View Details & Book →

Etiquette at Temples and Pagodas

Covering shoulders and knees, removing shoes, and quiet behaviour are expected at Vietnam's Buddhist temples and pagodas.

Orchid Island Ticket in Nha Trang - HolidaySG
Orchid Island Ticket in Nha Trang
ACV Lounge Noi Bai International Airport - HolidaySG

Orchid Island Ticket in Nha Trang

Escape to the tranquil shores of Orchid Island, where pristine beaches meet crystal-clear waters in a tropical paradise just off Nha Trang's coast. This curated cruise experience combines serene islan...

  • • Seamless combination cruise featuring both Orchid Island's serene beaches and Mo...
  • • Best time: Visit between January and August when the weather is dry and...
  • • Duration: The full experience typically takes half...
From ₫8 Nha Trang Beach lovers
View Details & Book →
Hue Airport Transfer - Book tickets on HolidaySG

Hue Airport Transfer

Skip the hassle of navigating unfamiliar roads and avoid overpriced taxis with the Hue Airport Transfer service. Enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride from Phu Bai International Airport straight t...

  • • No more worrying about taxi scams or overpriced transport — fixed rates and prof...
  • • Best time: The best time to visit Hue is from February to April when th...
  • • Duration: The airport transfer itself takes approx...
From ₫14 Hue Convenience
View Details & Book →
Thung Nham Bird Park in Ninh Binh - Book tickets on HolidaySG

Thung Nham Bird Park in Ninh Binh

Escape to Thung Nham Bird Valley, a breathtaking natural sanctuary in Ninh Binh where over 45 species of birds soar amidst ancient limestone caves and lush greenery. This enchanting destination offers...

  • • One of Vietnam's most unique bird sanctuaries with over 45 species calling this...
  • • Best time: The best times to visit are early morning (6 AM to 9 AM) or...
  • • Duration: Plan for approximately 2 to 4 hours to f...
From ₫7 Hanoi Explorers
View Details & Book →
Highlights Of Hanoi Full-Day City Tour - Book tickets on HolidaySG

Highlights Of Hanoi Full-Day City Tour

Discover the timeless charm of Hanoi on this comprehensive full-day city tour through the heart of Vietnam's capital. From the ancient temples and bustling streets of the Old Quarter to iconic landmar...

  • • Expert English-speaking guide brings Hanoi's rich history and culture to life wi...
  • • Best time: The best time to visit Hanoi is during spring (March to Apri...
  • • Duration: This is a full-day tour lasting approxim...
From ₫33 Hanoi Explorers
View Details & Book →

Compare Featured Activities

ActivityLocationPriceBest ForBook
Car Charter With Driver - Hour RateDa Nang₫34EveryoneBook →
Da Nang - Hoi An City TransfersDa Nang₫15ConvenienceBook →
3 Islands & Cable Car With Buffet By SpeedboatPhu Quoc₫65Beach loversBook →
HUE CITY TOURHue₫26ExplorersBook →
Orchid Island Ticket in Nha TrangNha Trang₫8Beach loversBook →
Hue Airport TransferHue₫14ConvenienceBook →
Thung Nham Bird Park in Ninh BinhHanoi₫7ExplorersBook →
Highlights Of Hanoi Full-Day City TourHanoi₫33ExplorersBook →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it rude to raise your voice in Vietnam?

Yes, public displays of anger or frustration are generally viewed poorly and considered a loss of face for all involved.

What should I wear to visit a Vietnamese pagoda?

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is expected, similar to temple etiquette elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

Is tipping expected in Vietnam?

Not traditionally required, though it's increasingly appreciated in tourist-oriented restaurants and for tour guides.

About HolidaySG — Licensed Singapore travel agency (TA04014). This guide is researched and written by the HolidaySG Editorial team using verified, up-to-date destination information and real product data from our booking platform.

Ready to Explore Vietnam?

Book verified activities online. E-tickets emailed after our team confirms your booking.

Browse All Vietnam Activities →
Important: Some of the links recommended here are paid placements or have sponsored our stay in one way. We have paid for these accommodations ourselves. If you book through any of our links, we make a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps keep our site running – so thank you in advance for your support!
HolidaySG

Written by

HolidaySG Travel Team

Singapore-based travel specialists covering attractions, tours and travel experiences across Asia-Pacific and beyond. Licensed travel agency (TA04014).

Last updated: October 12, 2026

#Vietnam etiquette guide #Vietnam cultural dos and donts #Vietnamese customs travellers
Share this guide

Visa for Vietnam

Vietnam Vietnam e-Visa — requirements, fees & how to apply

Singapore passport: Visa-free (up to 30 days)

Govt fee: Free (exempt) · e-Visa: US$25 single entry · HolidaySG assistance: S$65

Check visa

Why book with HolidaySG?

  • Licensed Singapore travel agency
  • Secure online booking
  • Daily support (9 AM – 11 PM SGT)
  • E-tickets emailed after our team confirms your booking
  • Clear cancellation policies

Need Help Booking?

Our travel experts are available daily, 9 AM – 11 PM SGT.

Contact Support

Explore Vietnam on HolidaySG

Ask me anything!

Luna — HolidaySG

We use cookies

We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised content, and analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies. Read our Cookie Policy