The costs to know
| Cost | Amount seen | When | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tourist tax | none found for Hanoi; a 2017 article mentioned a tax in Ho Chi Minh City, with no follow-up found | at the hotel | ask the hotel whether a local tax is added |
| VAT | 8% until 31 December 2026 according to a guide, 10% afterwards (standard rate) | "++" price or bill | ask whether the price is "all taxes included" |
| Service charge | often 5% in large hotels, applied before VAT | "++" price | compare all-taxes-included prices |
| Card payment | about 3% according to a guide; 0 to 10% in some Ho Chi Minh City hotels | at reception or in shops | pay in dong, see ATMs and cards in Hanoi |
| Breakfast | sometimes charged separately | when booking | read what is included |
| Taxi | Hanoi's tourism department has reported overcharging | fare and luggage | use Grab, see Grab in Vietnam |
Worked example for a "++" hotel
A rate of 10,000,000 dong before tax becomes 10,800,000 with 8% VAT, and about 11,340,000 with a 5% service charge added before VAT (our calculation from the quoted rates, about 13 to 14% more). With 10% VAT the extra rises to around 15.5%. A hotel may also show an all-in price: ask for it before paying.
VAT refund and prices for foreigners
One guide says tourist VAT refunds are claimed on departure, at certain international airports only. We found no official double pricing rule for foreigners at Hanoi sites; price gaps mostly come from sellers. See also scams and safety in Hanoi and budget in Hanoi.
Choosing a hotel with a clear price
Compare the final price, taxes included, in where to stay in Hanoi and book a rate that states breakfast and cancellation.
FAQ
Is there a tourist tax in Hanoi?
We found none. Ask the hotel before booking, as rules can change.
What is a "++" price?
A price before service charge and VAT. The total can rise by 13 to 16% depending on the rates.
Are bank cards surcharged?
Sometimes, about 3% according to one guide. Ask before paying.
Further reading
See also Grab in Vietnam.
The Hanoi Authority editorial team, 30 October 2026.
