When visiting Vietnam for the first time, it's crucial to grasp the basics of the local currency, the Vietnamese dong (VND). Adopted as Vietnam's official currency in 1978, the Dong plays a vital role in everyday transactions. Before embarking on your journey, familiarize yourself with currency exchange rates and essential tips for exchanging money to ensure smooth transactions throughout your trip.
01 Vietnam currency denominations
The official currency of Vietnam is the Vietnamese dong (VND), symbolized by "â‚«". Historically, the term "dong" originated from the copper material used in the earliest coins. Since its establishment as the national currency in 1978, the Vietnamese dong has been issued by the State Bank of Vietnam.
Currently, there are two main types of dong notes in circulation:
Polymer notes, available in denominations of 500,000 VND, 200,000 VND, 100,000 VND, 50,000 VND, 20,000 VND, and 10,000 VND
Paper notes, which include denominations of 5,000 VND, 2,000 VND, 1,000 VND, 500 VND, and 200 VND.
02 Meaning of famous attractions on Vietnam’s Dong banknotes - how to realize each denomination
The VND500,000 - Lotus Village
The VND500,000 note features a depiction of a house located in Lotus Village, Nghe An, the birthplace of President Ho Chi Minh, a revered leader of the Vietnamese people. This house, known as the 5-compartment house, holds significance as it was where Ho Chi Minh spent his childhood years. Today, the house serves as a museum dedicated to preserving the personal life and remarkable career of the late President and his family.
The VND200,000 - Ha Long Bay
The VND200,000 note features a stunning depiction of Ha Long Bay, a renowned tourist destination located in northern Vietnam. Known for its breathtaking scenery, Ha Long Bay is characterized by thousands of limestone karst islands rising majestically from the turquoise waters, creating a mesmerizing and unforgettable landscape.
The VND100,000 - Temple of Literature (Khue Van Cac, symbol of Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam)
The VND100,000 note showcases the iconic Temple of Literature, a renowned historical site that is a must-visit on any Hanoi travel itinerary. Established as the first university in Vietnam during the 11th century, the Temple of Literature holds immense cultural significance. It continues to attract thousands of tourists annually, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's rich academic and intellectual heritage. Additionally, the temple hosts various cultural events and activities, paying homage to the nation's talented individuals throughout history.
The VND50,000 - Nghenh Luong Temple
The VND50,000 note features Nghenh Luong Temple, an ancient architectural gem located in Hue. Situated near the picturesque Perfume River, this historic temple served as the final resting place for the King in bygone eras. Today, it stands as a testament to Hue's rich cultural heritage, attracting visitors with its intriguing history and serene surroundings.
The VND20,000 - Japanese Bridge
The VND20,000 note showcases the iconic Japanese Bridge located in Hoi An, Quang Nam Province. This historic bridge, spanning 18 meters over a stream of the Thu Bon River, dates back to the 17th century and was constructed by Japanese merchants. Crafted from wood and adorned with intricate paintings and carvings, the Japanese Bridge stands as a symbol of cultural exchange and architectural beauty in Hoi An.
Other denominations
On the VND10,000 note, there is an image of a buffalo, representing agricultural significance in Vietnam.
On the VND5,000 note, there is an illustration of a monument honoring Vietnam's war heroes.
On the VND2,000 note, there is an image of the Hùng Kings Temple, dedicated to the legendary founders of the nation.
On the VND1,000 note, there is a depiction of a traditional Vietnamese bronze drum, symbolizing cultural heritage and tradition.
03 Where to exchange money and the updated currency exchange rate
Currency | Exchange rate | |
|---|---|---|
US DOLLAR | USD | 25,484 |
EURO | EUR | 28,170 |
JAPAN YEN | JPY | 168 |
POUND STERLING | GBP | 32,341 |
AUSTRALIAN DOLLAR | AUD | 17,079 |
CANADIAN DOLLAR | CAD | 18,891 |
SINGAPORE DOLLAR | SGD | 19,103 |
YUAN RENMINBI | CNY | 3,597 |
HONGKONG DOLLAR | HKD | 3,306 |
KOREAN WON | KRW | 19 |
THAILAND BAHT | THB | 706 |
Upon arrival in Vietnam, one of your initial tasks will be converting your home currency into Vietnamese Dong. Various options exist for currency exchange:
Airports: Currency exchange booths are commonly found at most airports in Vietnam and are typically open 24/7, providing convenience for travelers arriving at any hour.
Banks: Banks generally offer favorable exchange rates, though the process may be more time-consuming and necessitate additional documentation like a passport or visa. Some banks may also have limited operating hours for currency exchange.
Gold and jewelry shops: While these shops may offer convenient locations, they often impose higher exchange rates and include hidden fees. It's essential to carefully review any associated fees before proceeding with a currency exchange at these establishments.
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