Question 1

Do Russians need a visa for Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

No, a visa is not needed for up to 45 days. The visa-free regime applies regardless of the purpose of the trip and has been extended until March 14, 2028. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months; it is advisable to have a return ticket and an accommodation booking. For a longer stay, apply for an electronic e-Visa valid for up to 90 days (the visa fee is about 25 USD for single entry and 50 USD for multiple entry). Check the current rules before you fly.

Question 2

When should I go to northern Vietnam, and when to the south?

Accepted Answer

The north (Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Long) is more pleasant from October to April; it is hot and humid there in summer. The south (Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta) is warm year-round, with a dry season roughly from December to April. The center (Hoi An, Da Nang) is best visited from February to August.

Question 3

How much does food cost in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Street food is very affordable: a bowl of pho or a banh mi costs about 1–2 USD. Lunch at a mid-range café is 3–6 USD per person. Even when you eat out all the time, food costs stay low.

Question 4

Hoi An or Da Nang?

Accepted Answer

Da Nang is a modern city with long beaches, hotels and a convenient airport. Nearby Hoi An is an old town with lanterns, tailor shops and atmosphere; it has beaches too, but they are quieter. It is easy to combine them: stay in one and travel to the other, which takes about 30 minutes.

Question 5

How can Russians pay in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Russian Visa and Mastercard cards do not work. The main method is cash in dong; it is convenient to bring dollars to exchange (the rate is better at banks and jewelry shops than at a hotel). UnionPay cards are accepted to a limited extent, mainly in large cities and chains. Plan a reserve of cash, especially outside tourist areas.

Question 6

What is the internet situation in Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

Mobile internet is cheap and fast. The easiest options are to activate an eSIM online before departure or to buy a local SIM (Viettel, Mobifone) at the airport with your passport. Western services work without restrictions, so a VPN is not needed.

Question 7

How do I get from Russia to Vietnam in 2026?

Accepted Answer

There are direct flights from Moscow to Vietnam (Aeroflot, Vietnam Airlines and charter carriers), with a flight time of about 10–11 hours. From the regions, you fly with a connection. You can conveniently compare tickets in the “Flights” section.

Question 8

Is Vietnam safe for tourists?

Accepted Answer

Vietnam is generally safe; the main risk is pickpockets and bag or phone snatching from passing motorbikes in big cities (Ho Chi Minh City). Hold your belongings firmly, do not take out your phone by the road, and cross the street calmly and predictably, because the flow of motorbikes is very dense.

Question 9

Do I need vaccinations for Vietnam?

Accepted Answer

There are no mandatory vaccinations. Hepatitis A and typhoid are recommended; if you travel to rural areas or for a long time, discuss Japanese encephalitis and rabies with a doctor. There is a risk of dengue, so use repellents. This is general information; a doctor will give specific recommendations.

Hotels in Vietnam