When travelling abroad, it’s important to make sure you have easy access to your holiday money. There are lots of different ways to access your money overseas, so it’s important for you to choose the best option. And when you planning your trip to Vietnam, you might have some questions in mind:
Are US Dollars (USD) widely used in Vietnam?
Where can I exchange my currency?
Can I withdraw Vietnam Dong (VND) from ATMs using my Credit/Debit Card?
Here are the answers:
General Info: The monetary unit of Vietnam is Dong, abbreviated in domestic market as “đ”, and in international market as “VND”. The bank notes of Vietnam has the values from 500,000 VND, 200,000 VND, 100,000 VND, 50,000 VND, 20,000 VND, 10,000 VND, 500 VND, 1000VND, 500VND, 200VND… Among them, 2 notes: 500,000 VND and 20,000 VND sometimes cause foreign visitors confusion because of their color similarities.
Cash is King: In Vietnam, Credit Cards has become more widely accepted in big cities. However, cash is still the preferred method of payment in most places, specially in small towns, and rural areas. Make sure to carry enough cash with you, especially when traveling to more remote country side.
Preferred Currency: US Dollars are also accepted in some shopping malls, luxurious hotels, large businesses in big cities. However, most of local businesses, markets, small establishments generally prefer payment in Vietnam Dong.
Cash Withdrawal: ATMs are widespread in urban areas. You can use your international credit cards to withdraw Vietnam Dong. However, keep in mind that some ATMS may charge withdrawal fees, so it’s a good idea to check with your bank about any international transaction fees before using your card.
Foreign Exchanges: Foreign currencies can be exchanged at the Airports, Banks, Foreign Exchange Counters, Jewelry Stores, and at some Hotels. Exchange Rates may vary, so it’s advisable to compare rates before making a transaction. Avoid exchanging currencies with street vendors, or unauthorized individuals to prevent scams and counterfeit money.
Based on VietCom Bank, 1 of the Top Banks in Vietnam, on August, 2023, the exchange rate 1 USD=23,540.00 VND.
Local Prices. Let’s check some current prices:
Street Food and Local Eateries:
Bowl of pho (noodle soup): 30,000 – 70,000 VND
Banh mi (Vietnamese sandwich): 15,000 – 40,000 VND
Bowl of bun cha (grilled pork with noodles): 30,000 – 60,000 VND
Vietnamese coffee: 15,000 – 40,000 VND
Restaurant Meals:
Budget local restaurant: 50,000 – 150,000 VND per person
Mid-range restaurant: 200,000 – 500,000 VND per person
High-end restaurant: 500,000 – 1,500,000 VND per person or more
Accommodation:
Budget guesthouses or hostels: 200,000 – 500,000 VND per night
Mid-range hotels: 700,000 – 1,500,000 VND per night
Luxury hotels: 2,000,000 VND and above per night
Groceries and Daily Necessities:
Bottle of water: 7,000 – 15,000 VND
Local beer: 15,000 – 30,000 VND…
If you’re in Ho Chi Minh, besides changing your currency in the Banks where you have to show passport, and pretty long waiting time for your turn…. you can stop by at these 3 Official Foreign Exchanges, pretty crowded every day but easy, fast, and convenient next to the main tourist attractions in the city that you shouldn’t miss.
- 135 Dong Khoi Street, District 1. Around 50m from Nguyen Hue Walking Square, and about 100m from Opera House. Just stop by while you’re visiting these places.
- The two on Nguyen An Ninh Street (a very short street) at a side of Ben Thanh Market, a symbol of Ho Chi Minh city tourism.
