Common Tourist Scams in Hanoi (and How to Avoid Them)
Updated: Sep 9
Most guests who come through Hanoi never run into any trouble. But a few common Hanoi tourist scams catch first-time visitors off guard, and knowing about them ahead of time makes the whole trip easier.
Hanoi is generally safe for tourists. The handful of scams worth knowing about involve taxi meters, unpriced street food, and currency exchange, and all of them are easy to avoid by confirming a price before you buy.
Is Hanoi Safe for Tourists?
Yes. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and most Hanoians are genuinely helpful if you look lost or unsure. The scams below are more about a few extra dollars than any real danger, and a little awareness goes a long way.
Taxi & Ride Meters
Most taxis in Hanoi are honest, but a few unmarked cars or older meters run faster than they should.
Stick to well known brands like Mai Linh or Vinasun, or book through Grab, Be, or Xanh SM where the price is fixed before you get in
If a driver refuses to use the meter or app, it is fine to step out and find another car
Agree on a price upfront for longer trips outside the city
Street Food & Fruit Cart Pricing
Street vendors near tourist spots sometimes quote a low price, then ask for more once you have already eaten or are holding the item.
Ask the price before you order, especially for fruit sold from bicycle carts
Small bills are useful, since paying with a large note can lead to short changing
If a price feels off, it is fine to simply pay what you agreed and walk on
Shops With No Price Tags
A shop with no visible prices is not necessarily a scam, but it is worth asking first.
"Bao nhieu tien" means how much is it, and using it before you pick something up sets the price clearly
In markets, a bit of friendly bargaining is normal and expected
Persistent Street Sellers
Around the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake, some sellers, especially those offering shoe shines or lottery tickets, can be persistent.
A polite "khong, cam on" (no, thank you) and continuing to walk works well
If someone puts something in your hands or on your shoulder without asking, you are not obligated to buy it
Currency Exchange Scams
Stick to licensed exchange counters, jewelry shops on Hang Bac Street or gold shops on Ha Trung Street are commonly used and reliable, rather than informal exchange offers on the street.
Count your money before leaving the counter
Avoid anyone approaching you directly offering a better rate on the sidewalk
On our small group tours, this is one thing you can stop thinking about entirely. Our guides handle the ordering, the pricing, and the small talk with vendors, so you can focus on the food and the walk instead.
For more on preparing for your first trip, our general pre-trip guide covers what to pack and how to ease into Hanoi.
Common Tourist Scams in Hanoi (and How to Avoid Them): A Few Quick Questions
Is it safe to walk alone at night in Hanoi?
Generally yes, especially in the Old Quarter and around Hoan Kiem Lake, where there is usually foot traffic well into the evening. Use the same judgment you would in any unfamiliar city: stick to lit streets and let someone know your plans if you are heading out late.
Should I avoid certain areas?
There is no particular neighborhood in Hanoi that tourists need to avoid outright. Being more alert in very crowded areas, like train stations or big festivals, is reasonable, since that is where pickpocketing is more likely.
What are the most common Hanoi tourist scams?
Taxi meters and unpriced street food are the two most common. Both are avoidable by using app based rides and asking a price before you order.
None of this is unique to Hanoi, and most guests leave saying the city felt friendlier than they expected. A little price checking upfront just means you get to spend the rest of your time actually enjoying the place.
Continue planning: Vietnam for first-time visitors
Dung (Emma) Co-founder of Beyond Vietnam
Xin chào! I’m Dung, but many travellers call me Emma. I grew up on the outskirts of Hanoi, and no matter how far I travel, this busy and slightly chaotic city still feels most like home.
I’ve explored Vietnam on my own and with the people I love, while also spending years volunteering and joining community projects. Along the way, I’ve collected plenty of stories, local tips and unforgettable moments. I share them here to help you feel closer to Hanoi and Vietnam, hopefully even before you arrive.
You can also find me on Facebook. Come and say hi!
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