+ 6 h / + 5 h during our summer time

Hanoi (Ha Noi)

Vietnamese

• 110/220 volts
• A travel adapter for plug types A, C and D is required.
• A voltage converter is recommended.

Banks

8.00 am - 4.30 pm (Mon - Fri)
8.00 am - 12.00 pm (Sat)

Shops

8.00/9.00 am - 9.00/10.00 pm (daily)

• 1 January - New Year’s Day (Tết Dương Lịch)
• Tết Nguyên Đán (Vietnamese New Year) - variable date (usually in late January or early February, depending on the lunar calendar)
• Hùng Kings Commemoration Day (Giỗ Tổ Hùng Vương) - 10th day of the third lunar month
• 30 April - Liberation of Saigon Day / Reunification Day (Ngày Giải Phóng miền Nam, Thống nhất đất nước)
• 1 May - International Labour Day (Ngày Quốc tế Lao động)
• 2 September - National Day (Ngày Quốc khánh)

The following documents are required to enter Vietnam:

• A Swiss passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

• For tourist stays of up to 45 days, no visa is required. The visa exemption is currently valid until 14 August 2028. For longer stays, an e-visa can be applied for. 

• A return or onward ticket and valid documents for onward travel to the next country are required. 
• Proof of sufficient financial means for the entire duration of the stay is required.

• Minors: a travel consent form is recommended for minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without their parents.

As of: September 2024

The climate in Vietnam varies considerably by region:

• North (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa): the subtropical climate of northern Vietnam is influenced by the winter monsoon, making the four seasons clearly noticeable. Around Hanoi, the wetter season begins in May and ends in October, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between July and September. From mid-May, temperatures rise above 30°C and can reach 33°C in July. Nights remain warm and humid until September, with temperatures of 23-25°C. From mid-October, the north-east monsoon brings drier and milder weather, with daytime highs of around 25°C and cooler nights of around 20°C. Between December and February, temperatures are still often above 20°C, before rising again towards 25°C from March. Coastal areas are often grey and misty, although rainfall is generally limited. Winter nights are mild to cool, and occasional snowfall is even possible in the mountains around Sa Pa.
• Central Vietnam (Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): central Vietnam has a warm subtropical climate influenced by the meeting of the north-east and south-west monsoons. Between September and February, rainfall is particularly heavy around Hué and is often accompanied by typhoons, with temperatures sometimes falling below 20°C. Dry and pleasant weather is most common between April and August, when temperatures rise to 30-35°C. The Hai Van Pass (Cloud Pass) forms a climatic divide between northern and southern Vietnam. North of the pass, particularly around Hué, rainfall is heaviest in autumn and winter, while to the south, in Da Nang, conditions become drier from November onwards. From March, with temperatures of around 25-30°C, the Da Nang and Hoi An region is ideal for travelling, while Hué is also particularly pleasant from April.
• South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc): Vietnam’s tropical south has no clearly defined seasons. Temperatures remain around 30°C during the day and 20-24°C at night throughout the year. The south-west monsoon brings a wet season from May to October, with frequent heavy showers and a significant increase in humidity. At the beginning of the year and during spring, conditions are extremely hot and dry, particularly in March and April, when temperatures can reach 40°C. The best time to travel begins in November: rainfall is infrequent, temperatures remain pleasantly below 30°C, and the landscape is lush and green. The sea remains warm throughout the year, with water temperatures above 27°C.
   

  The ideal time to travel to Vietnam:

• Beach holidays: November to April (dry season) along the coasts of central and southern Vietnam, ideal for beaches such as Phu Quoc and Nha Trang.

• City breaks: October to April for pleasant weather in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi.

• Nature trips/hiking: September to December and March to May for northern Vietnam (Sapa, Ha Giang) and central Vietnam.

• Ha Long Bay cruises: October to April for the best weather conditions.

• Cultural trips: November to March for sightseeing in central and northern Vietnam during cooler, drier weather.

• Using a mobile phone in Vietnam may incur roaming charges. Travellers are advised to check the applicable roaming fees before departure and, where necessary, purchase a suitable roaming package to reduce costs.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels and public spaces. Internet access is generally good in urban areas and tourist regions, while coverage may be more limited in rural areas.
• Purchasing a prepaid SIM card is recommended for affordable mobile calls and internet access during your stay in Vietnam. SIM cards are readily available at airports, supermarkets and telecommunications shops. The three main mobile network providers are Viettel, Vinaphone and Mobifone. 

• Ha Long Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage natural site known for its impressive limestone formations and islands.
• Train Street (Hanoi) – A narrow street where a train passes directly between residential buildings – a unique photo opportunity.
• Hue – A former imperial city with an impressive citadel and imperial tombs.
• Mù Cang Chải – Breathtaking terraced rice fields in north-western Vietnam.
• Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage natural site with vast cave systems such as Son Doong Cave.
• Mekong Delta – Lush river landscapes, floating markets and traditional villages.
• Cu Chi Tunnels – A historic tunnel system dating from the Vietnam War.
• Cầu Vàng: Golden Bridge in Đà Nẵng – A famous pedestrian bridge supported by enormous stone hands high above the Ba Na Hills.
• Phu Quoc Island – A tropical island paradise with white sandy beaches.
• Bản Giốc-Detian Falls – Impressive waterfalls on the border with China, among the largest and most beautiful in the region.

For even more travel inspiration:
Discover more sights, special places and our personal tips for Vietnam’s capital in our Hanoi blog post. 
In our blog post about Ho Chi Minh City, you will also find our best tips on Saigon, street food, cafés, hotels and exciting excursions.

Vietnam offers a diverse and aromatic cuisine characterised by fresh ingredients, complex flavours and centuries-old culinary traditions. Its culinary diversity reflects the country’s geographical and cultural variety.

• Rice and noodle dishes: rice is at the heart of Vietnamese cuisine, particularly in classics such as Cơm Tấm (broken rice with various accompaniments) and Bún Chả (rice noodles with grilled pork). Pho, the famous noodle soup, is one of the symbols of Vietnamese cuisine.
• Fresh herbs and sauces: fresh herbs such as coriander, mint and Thai basil are essential ingredients in many dishes. Nuoc Cham, a sweet and salty fish sauce, is often served as an accompaniment.
• Street food: Vietnamese street food is legendary, with dishes such as Bánh Mì (Vietnamese baguette with various fillings) and Gỏi Cuốn (fresh spring rolls) enjoyed throughout the country.
• Seafood: coastal regions offer a wide variety of fresh seafood, including Mực Nướng (grilled squid) and Cá Kho Tộ (caramelised fish cooked in a clay pot).
• Soups and stews: soups such as Pho Bo (beef noodle soup) and Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef soup from central Vietnam) are renowned for their complex, richly flavoured broths.
• Tropical fruits: Vietnam is known for exotic fruits such as dragon fruit, mango and longan, which are often enjoyed as desserts or snacks.
• Drinks: popular drinks include Cà Phê Sữa Đá (iced coffee with sweetened condensed milk) and fresh coconut water. Rice wine and lotus tea are also typical of Vietnamese culture.

• Greetings: in Vietnam, a friendly nod or a light handshake is a common greeting between men. When greeting women, a polite nod is often sufficient. Showing respect to older people is particularly important, for example by bowing slightly.
• Saying please and thank you: politeness is highly valued. Say “Cảm ơn” (thank you) and “Làm ơn” (please). When handing something to someone, it is best to use both hands as a sign of respect.
• Clothing: casual clothing is common in cities, but shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting temples or religious sites. Modest clothing is appreciated in rural areas.
• Dining etiquette: in Vietnam, dishes are generally shared at the table. It is polite to serve older people first. Avoid placing your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as this is considered disrespectful. Where possible, finish the food on your plate to show appreciation for the meal.
• Smoking: smoking in enclosed spaces and public areas is often discouraged. It is best to ask politely before smoking.
• Tipping: tipping is not compulsory, but it is increasingly appreciated. In restaurants and hotels, a tip of 5-10% of the bill is customary, while in simpler establishments it is often sufficient to round up the amount.

• Tap water: tap water in Vietnam is not suitable for drinking directly. Travellers are advised to use only bottled or properly filtered water. Bottled water is also preferable for brushing teeth or washing food in order to reduce health risks.

• Vaccinations: no mandatory vaccinations are required to enter Vietnam. However, travellers are advised to check that their standard vaccinations are up to date before departure and to receive any necessary boosters. Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended. For longer stays or travel to certain areas, vaccination against hepatitis B, typhoid, rabies and Japanese encephalitis (JE), as well as possible preventive measures against dengue fever, may also be considered.

• Mosquito-borne diseases: in Vietnam, there is a risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue fever, malaria and Japanese encephalitis, particularly in rural areas and during the rainy season. To protect yourself, it is important to avoid mosquito bites: wear long, light-coloured clothing, use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets.

• Medical care in Vietnam varies considerably between urban and rural areas. In major cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there are some international hospitals and clinics with well-trained staff offering modern treatment. In rural and remote areas, however, medical care is more limited in terms of both facilities and personnel. In the event of a serious health problem, travellers are advised to seek treatment at a hospital in a major city or, if necessary, abroad.
• Comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation is strongly recommended.
• Pharmacies are widely available and easy to access in Vietnam’s larger cities. Over-the-counter medicines are generally easy to obtain, but travellers should be cautious of counterfeit or expired products. Pharmacies attached to private hospitals or clinics are generally considered more reliable.
• Travellers are advised to bring a well-stocked travel medical kit. If you rely on specific medication, make sure you carry a sufficient supply for the entire duration of your trip.

• Before and during your trip, keep informed about the current situation through the media and remain in contact with your tour operator.

• Vietnam is generally considered a safe travel destination, with a low crime rate, particularly against tourists. However, pickpocketing and minor scams occasionally occur in larger cities such as Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, especially in tourist areas and markets.
• Vietnam is politically stable and major unrest is rare. Nevertheless, travellers are advised to avoid demonstrations. 

• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

As of: October 2024

• An International Driving Permit is mandatory in Vietnam and is only valid when used together with your national driving licence.
• The minimum age for renting a car in Vietnam is 21. Additional fees may apply to drivers under the age of 25.
• Traffic in Vietnam is chaotic and traffic rules are often disregarded. Particular caution is required when crossing roads. Helmets are compulsory for scooter riders, and wearing a good-quality helmet is essential.
• Vietnam has a 0.0 ‰ blood alcohol limit for all road users, including cyclists.

• Long-distance trains: Vietnam has an extensive network of long-distance trains connecting major cities such as Hanoi, Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City along the coastal railway. The main service, the Reunification Express, runs from north to south and is operated by Vietnam Railways (Đường sắt Việt Nam). Long-distance trains are a comfortable option for longer journeys, with different classes ranging from standard seats to sleeper carriages.
• Regional trains: regional trains operated by Vietnam Railways connect smaller towns and villages along the main railway lines. These trains are slower than long-distance services but provide an affordable way to explore Vietnam’s more rural regions.

• Coaches: coaches are one of the main forms of transport for long-distance travel in Vietnam, particularly for reaching remote areas. Companies such as Phuong Trang (Futa Bus) and The Sinh Tourist operate services between cities and tourist destinations. Sleeper buses are particularly popular on longer routes.

• Boats and ferries: with its long coastline and numerous rivers, boats and ferries are a popular means of travel, particularly for journeys to islands such as Phu Quoc or Cat Ba. Numerous boat tours are available in Ha Long Bay and the Mekong Delta. Vehicle ferries also connect some coastal towns.
• Underground: Hanoi’s metro system currently consists of two lines, one of which is fully operational, while the second is partially completed. In Ho Chi Minh City, the metro system is still under construction and has not yet officially opened.

• Tickets and apps: train and coach tickets can be purchased at railway stations, bus terminals or online via platforms such as Baolau and 12Go. Booking well in advance is recommended, particularly for long-distance journeys.

• Things to know: coaches are often delayed, and larger cities may have several bus terminals, so it is important to check the departure point when booking. Air conditioning on long-distance coaches is often very strong, so bringing a jacket or blanket is recommended.

There are no direct flights between Switzerland and Vietnam, but connections with stopovers are available. The main airports in Vietnam are:

• Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Hanoi
• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), Ho Chi Minh City
• Da Nang International Airport (DAD), Da Nang
• Cam Ranh International Airport (CXR), Nha Trang
• Phu Quoc International Airport (PQC), Phu Quoc

Vietnam’s main domestic airlines are Vietnam Airlines, Bamboo Airways, VietJet Air and Pacific Airlines. International airlines offering flights to Vietnam include SWISS, Singapore Airlines, Qatar Airways, Emirates, Thai Airways, Korean Air and Cathay Pacific.

00 41 (omit the initial zero of the Swiss area code)

• Fire brigade: 114

• Ambulance: 115

• Police: 113

Hanoi Central Office Building
15th floor
44B Ly Thuong Kiet Street

Tel.: +84 4 39 34 65 89
Email: hanoi@eda.admin.ch

• The import of drones for private use is permitted in Vietnam. However, authorisation from the Ministry of Defence is required to operate them. Violations may result in substantial fines and, in serious cases, criminal penalties.
• Drug-related offences, including possession, purchase and trafficking, are severely punished in Vietnam. Even small quantities can result in lengthy prison sentences, while the manufacture, transport or trafficking of drugs may carry the death penalty.
• Persons over the age of 18 may import the following duty-free: 200 cigarettes, 20 cigars or 250 g of tobacco; 1.5 litres of alcohol above 20%, 2 litres of alcohol below 20% and 3 litres of beer.
• In the provinces of Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri and Thua Thien-Hue, seawater is contaminated by industrial wastewater. Avoid consuming fish and seafood from these areas.
• Photographing military installations and public infrastructure such as airports or bridges is prohibited in Vietnam and may have serious consequences.
• In Vietnam, you must carry your passport or a copy showing your visa and entry stamp at all times and be able to present it upon request.