General Information

Some facts:

• Capital: Hanoi (Hà Nội)

• Largest city: Ho Chi Minh City (Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh) (formerly Saigon)

• Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
  (10,000 VND ≈ 0.36 CHF)

• Language: Vietnamese (English is widely spoken in tourist areas)

• Population: approx. 98 million

^{Hanoi: big city flair and centuries-old culture.}

Climate and Best Time to Travel

Vietnam lies within two climate zones, divided by the so-called Cloud Pass (Hai Van Pass) near Da Nang:

• North: Subtropical, with cooler temperatures from November to April and a hot, humid rainy season from May to October.

• South & Central region: Tropical and warm to hot year-round. The rainy season here usually lasts from May to October.
  
  

Best time to travel: March–April and September–November. During these months, the weather is generally mild and dry – ideal for exploring the country.

Entry & Visa

Swiss citizens require the following to enter Vietnam:

• A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the return date

• A visa, which can be applied for online: https://evisa.gov.vn/
  → The approved eVisa must be printed out and is valid at all official border crossings (including airports).
  
  

From March 1 to December 31, 2025, citizens of Switzerland, the Czech Republic, and Poland will be able to enter the country without a visa under certain conditions. Find out more here.

Please note: The import and possession of e-cigarettes and similar products is prohibited in Vietnam and punishable by law. Do not carry these items with you.

Popular Travel Route Through Vietnam

From North to South: Hanoi → Ha Long Bay → Ninh Binh → Hue → Hoi An → Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City → Mekong Delta → Phu Quoc

Start: Hanoi (North)
End: Phu Quoc or Ho Chi Minh City (South)

This route takes you through some of the most exciting regions of Vietnam:
Experience the bustling old quarters of Hanoi, cruise between limestone cliffs in Ha Long Bay, and float past rice paddies in Ninh Binh. Dive into Vietnam’s imperial history in Hue, then wander through lantern-lit streets and shop for tailor-made clothes in Hoi An. Afterward, relax on the beaches of Da Nang. In Ho Chi Minh City, enjoy big-city vibes and street food tours, while the Mekong Delta offers a glimpse into life on the water. To finish your journey, the tropical island of Phu Quoc invites you to unwind with white sandy beaches and unforgettable sunsets.

^{The spectacular “Golden Bridge” in Da Nang will take your breath away.}

Health & Travel First Aid Kit

Recommended Vaccinations

In addition to standard vaccinations, we recommend the Hepatitis A vaccine for travel to Vietnam. Depending on your itinerary and planned activities, vaccinations against Typhoid, rabies, and Japanese Encephalitis may also be appropriate. The Yellow fever vaccine is only required if you are entering from a Yellow fever endemic country (not directly from Europe).

We recommend booking a travel consultation to discuss with our specialists which vaccines are necessary for your individual trip.

Mosquito-Borne Diseases

• Mosquitoes that transmit Dengue, Zika, and Chikungunya are found throughout Vietnam, so consistent mosquito protection is essential (wear long clothing, use insect repellent, sleep under a mosquito net).
  There is a Dengue vaccine approved in Switzerland, but it is only recommended in specific cases — for travelers aged four and older who have previously had a Dengue infection (more than 6 months ago).

   

• Malaria: Low risk throughout the country (including Phu Quoc island); no risk in major city centers (e.g. Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City).

  
  
  

What Should Be in Your Travel First Aid Kit?

• Insect repellent (look for a DEET content of 30–50%)
• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Medication for traveler’s diarrhea & nausea
• Painkillers (e.g. paracetamol)
• Band-aids, disinfectant, and, if needed, bandage material
• Any personal medications you may need

Here you will find all the products in our shop!

Be Careful in Traffic!

Did you know that traffic accidents are the leading cause of death among tourists? Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic: poor road conditions, disregard for traffic rules, animals crossing the road... Stay alert at all times!
When choosing tourist boats, also pay attention to safety regulations, as boating accidents occur regularly.

Behavior & Cultural Customs in Vietnam

Cultural Etiquette

• Clothing: When visiting temples or sacred sites, modest clothing is important. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
• Shoes off: It is customary to remove your shoes when entering Vietnamese homes and many temples.
• Head & feet: The head is considered the most sacred part of the body, so avoid touching anyone’s head — even that of a child. Never point your feet at people or religious objects.
• Smiling: A smile is often the easiest way to connect with Vietnamese people and open doors – always remain polite and respectful.

Food & Drink

Special Traditions

• Tết Festival: Vietnam’s Lunar New Year (usually in January or February) is the country’s most important holiday. Many Vietnamese travel to visit their families, and the atmosphere is festive yet calm.
• Gifts: When visiting a Vietnamese home, a small gift is often expected — especially during major holidays or as a sign of appreciation.

Public Behavior Guidelines

• Respect for religion: Quiet and respectful behavior is highly appreciated when visiting temples and religious sites.
• Everyday clothing: In both cities and rural areas, people are expected to dress neatly. Clothing that is too revealing may be seen as disrespectful.
• Photography: Photographing military facilities or public infrastructure such as airports and bridges is prohibited and punishable by law.

Travel Responsibly

Travel is a privilege – and with privilege comes responsibility. In the spirit of responsible global citizenship, travelers should ensure they are properly vaccinated – not only for their own protection, but also to avoid spreading diseases to areas with lower vaccination coverage.
Equally important is a respectful and mindful attitude toward local people, animals, culture, and the environment. Fair consumption, sustainable behavior, and appreciation help make travel enriching for everyone involved.

Vietnam offers a fascinating blend of breathtaking nature, rich culture, and warm, welcoming people. With a well-prepared travel first aid kit and respect for local customs, travelers can enjoy this beautiful country safely and responsibly. Whether you're wandering through historic cities or relaxing on idyllic beaches – Vietnam is sure to inspire you!