Last checked: 21 September 2026.
Vietnamese people are famously warm towards visitors, and nobody expects you to know every custom. Still, a few small habits go a long way: they show respect, avoid awkward moments and often earn you a bigger smile. Here is what locals really notice.
The short answer
- Do: cover shoulders and knees at temples, take off shoes indoors when asked, pass things with both hands, greet older people first
- Don’t: stand chopsticks upright in rice, drink tap water, stop suddenly when crossing the street, or joke about national heroes
Do
Dress modestly at temples and pagodas
Cover your shoulders and knees, and take off your hat and sunglasses before going inside. A light scarf or sarong in your day bag solves this instantly. At Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum, the dress code is enforced and visitors should stay quiet.
Take your shoes off when you enter a home
Vietnamese families often sit, eat and play on the floor, so it is kept clean. If you see shoes at the door, add yours to the pile. If you are not sure, ask. The same applies in some homestays, temples and shops.
Respect elders
Age and seniority matter. Greet the oldest person first, pass and receive things with both hands, and let elders start eating first at a shared meal.
Protect your belongings in crowds
Keep bags in front of you in busy markets and hold your phone away from the roadside. This is simply practical, and locals do the same.
Learn two words
Xin chào (hello) and cảm ơn (thank you). Even a clumsy attempt is almost always met with delight.
Don’t
Stand chopsticks upright in your bowl
It resembles incense sticks at a funeral altar and is considered bad luck. Rest them across the bowl or on the holder instead.
Drink tap water
Drink bottled or boiled water. Ice in established restaurants and cafés is usually made from purified water.
Stop or run when crossing the street
Walk at a slow, steady pace so riders can predict where you will be, and let them flow around you. A raised hand helps.
Take honking personally
Horns in Vietnam mean “I’m here” or “I’m passing”, not anger. It is a normal part of how traffic communicates.
Be offended if people laugh at your Vietnamese
Vietnamese is tonal, so one word can have six meanings. People are laughing with you, and usually encouraging you to keep trying.
Mock national heroes or the military
Vietnam fought long wars for independence, and figures such as Ho Chi Minh and General Vo Nguyen Giap are deeply respected. Jokes that might pass at home can cause real offence.
A few more small things
- Public displays of affection are more reserved than in the West, especially in rural areas.
- Ask before photographing people, particularly in ethnic minority villages. A smile and a gesture towards your camera is enough.
- Bargaining is normal at markets but not in shops with fixed prices. Keep it friendly; the difference is often small.
- Touching someone’s head, including children’s, is best avoided.
- Keep your voice down at temples, pagodas and memorials.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear shorts in Vietnam?
Yes, in cities and at the beach. Carry something to cover your knees for temples and official sites.
Is it OK to eat on the street?
Absolutely. Sitting on a low plastic stool at a pavement stall is part of daily life for everyone.
How should I greet someone?
A smile and a slight nod is fine; handshakes are common between men in business. Let the other person lead.
Before you go, also read Is Vietnam safe? and tipping in Vietnam.