Alexandre Yersin Museum

Location: 10 Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province
Distance: 1 km from Nha Trang city center
Hours: 08:00–11:00, 14:00–16:30 (Monday–Saturday, closed Sundays)
Fee: 26.000 VNĐ for adults
Time Needed: 1–1.5 hours
Review Ratings: 8.7/10
Highlight: Rare artifacts from Dr. Yersin’s life, including his plague research tools
Note:

1. Why Visit Alexandre Yersin Museum?

• Unique Historical Insight: Dive into the life of Dr. Alexandre Yersin, a Swiss-French scientist who discovered the plague bacterium and called Nha Trang his home.

• Intimate Cultural Vibe: The small, 100-square-meter museum feels like stepping into Yersin’s world, with personal artifacts and a colonial-era charm.

• Exclusive to Nha Trang: See the actual tools and letters of a man who shaped Vietnam’s medical and agricultural history, found only here.

As a Nha Trang local, I was amazed by how Yersin’s humble life and genius contributions come alive through his microscope and handwritten journals—it’s like meeting a legend!

2. History, Legends & Cultural Significance

The Alexandre Yersin Museum, established in 1997 within the Pasteur Institute at 10 Tran Phu Street, Nha Trang, is a tribute to Dr. Alexandre Yersin (1863–1943), fondly called “Ông Năm” by locals. This Swiss-French physician and bacteriologist arrived in Vietnam in 1891, fell in love with Nha Trang, and made it his home for over 50 years. His discovery of Yersinia pestis, the bacterium causing the bubonic plague, revolutionized global medicine. Yersin also founded the Nha Trang Pasteur Institute in 1895, introduced rubber and quinine trees to Vietnam, and recommended the establishment of Dalat as a hill station. His simple life and dedication to treating locals for free earned him deep respect, with streets still bearing his name post-independence—a rare honor for a foreigner.

His tomb in Suoi Dau, 20 km south of Nha Trang, is adorned with a pagoda where locals perform rites, reflecting his lasting cultural impact. The museum, recognized as a Cultural and Historical Relic by Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture in 1991, preserves his legacy through 1,200 books, 50+ scientific tools, and personal items like his Leroy clock and telescope.

Timeline at-a-Glance:

• 1863: Alexandre Yersin born in Aubonne, Switzerland.

• 1891: Arrives in Nha Trang, begins lifelong connection with Vietnam.

• 1894: Discovers Yersinia pestis in Hong Kong, key to plague treatment.

• 1895: Founds Nha Trang Pasteur Institute.

• 1896: Establishes Suoi Dau Breeding Farm for vaccine research.

• 1943: Passes away in Nha Trang; buried in Suoi Dau.

• 1997: Alexandre Yersin Museum opens to the public.

3. What You’ll Experience

Scenery Highlights & Photo Spots

The museum, nestled within the colonial-style Pasteur Institute, exudes a nostalgic charm. Its compact 100-square-meter exhibit space on the 2nd floor features a central room with a walkway, showcasing Yersin’s life. Snap photos of:

• Yersin’s Laboratory Replica: Microscopes and medical tools used in plague research.

• 3D Photo Viewer: Rare glass-plate photos of 1890s Vietnam, capturing Nha Trang’s early days.

• Telescope Corner: A massive telescope reflecting Yersin’s astronomy passion.

The surrounding gardens offer a serene backdrop for reflection, perfect for candid shots.

Signature Activities

• Explore Exhibits: Wander through displays of Yersin’s diaries, letters, and scientific instruments, with captions in French, English, and Vietnamese.

• Watch the Documentary: A short film on Yersin’s life brings his story to life.

• Interactive Learning: Engage with guides like Ms. Thục, a translator of Yersin’s biography, whose storytelling adds depth (as per the user review).

Local Food Nearby

After your visit, grab a bite at nearby spots along Tran Phu Street:

• Pho Bo at Pho Hong: Classic Nha Trang beef noodle soup, 5-minute walk.

• Seafood at Nha Trang Beachfront: Fresh grilled squid or shrimp, paired with local beer.

• Banh Can at Lac Canh Restaurant: Crispy rice cakes with fish sauce, a local favorite.

4. How to Get There

Self-Drive

• Route: From Nha Trang city center, head north on Tran Phu Street (main coastal road). The museum is at 10 Tran Phu, next to the Pasteur Institute.

• Cost: Motorbike rental (~100.000 VNĐ/day), fuel (~20.000 VNĐ for 3 km round trip).

Public Bus & Shuttle

• Route: Take Bus 4 from Tran Phu Beach toward the city center. Get off at the “Tran Phu – Xuong Huan” stop, then walk 200 meters south.

• Hours: Buses run every 15–20 minutes, 06:00–18:00.

• Cost: 7.000 VNĐ one-way.

Guided Day-Tours

• Providers: Book via Evendo or local agencies like Impress Travel.

• Pick-Up: Hotel pick-up in Nha Trang city center, typically 08:00–09:00.

• Cost: ~300.000–500.000 VNĐ, including museum entry and guide.

Comparison Table:

5. Must-Try Things On-Site

1. Browse Yersin’s Library: Explore 1,200 books, from “One Thousand and One Nights” to scientific texts. Details on Yersin’s Library

2. Examine Scientific Tools: See microscopes, morse antennas, and globes used in his research. Details on Yersin’s Tools

3. View Glass-Plate Photos: Marvel at 500+ historical images of Nha Trang and Vietnam. Details on Photo Exhibits

4. Sign the Golden Book: Leave your thoughts in the guestbook, a tradition for visitors. Details on Guestbook

5. Chat with Guides: Engage with knowledgeable staff for personal stories about Yersin.

6. Nearby Attractions

• Nha Trang Beach (0.5 km): Relax on the 6-km golden sand beach, perfect for swimming or sunset photos.

• Po Nagar Cham Towers (3 km): Ancient 7th–12th-century towers with stunning views and cultural rituals.

• National Oceanographic Museum (4 km): See 20,000+ marine specimens, including whale skeletons. Museum

• Dam Market (2 km): Shop for local crafts, fresh seafood, and street food.

• VinWonders Nha Trang (6 km): Enjoy thrilling rides and marine shows at this amusement park.

7. Practical Tips for Visitors

Dress Code & Packing List

• Dress: Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees) to respect the cultural site.

• Pack: Water bottle, camera, translation app (some exhibits lack Vietnamese captions, as per user review).

Cost Snapshot

Safety • Etiquette • Accessibility

• Safety: Watch your step on the 2nd-floor stairs; no elevator available.

• Etiquette: Speak softly, follow photography rules, and respect artifacts.

• Accessibility: Not wheelchair-friendly due to stairs.

Best Time & Weather Watch

• Best Time: Weekday mornings (08:00–10:00) for fewer crowds.

• Weather: Nha Trang’s dry season (Jan–Aug) is ideal; avoid rainy Oct–Dec.

8. Sample Half-Day Itinerary

• 08:00: Breakfast at Pho Hong (pho bo, 40.000 VNĐ).

• 08:30: Arrive at Alexandre Yersin Museum via Bus 4 or motorbike.

• 08:45–10:00: Explore exhibits, watch the documentary, and chat with guides.

• 10:15: Stroll to Nha Trang Beach for a quick photo session.

• 10:45: Visit Dam Market for souvenirs and street food (try banh can).

• 12:00: Lunch at Lac Canh Restaurant (seafood, ~100.000 VNĐ).

Total Cost: ~200.000 VNĐ (including transport, entry, and food).

9. FAQs

What is the Alexandre Yersin Museum known for?
It showcases the life and work of Dr. Alexandre Yersin, who discovered the plague bacterium and founded the Nha Trang Pasteur Institute.

How much is the entry fee for Alexandre Yersin Museum?
The fee is 26.000 VNĐ for adults, affordable for a rich historical experience.

Is the Alexandre Yersin Museum suitable for kids?
Yes, but best for older kids (8+) interested in history or science due to reading-heavy exhibits.

Are there English guides at the museum?
Some staff speak English, and exhibits have English translations. Hiring a local guide (100.000–200.000 VNĐ) enhances the experience.

How long should I spend at the museum?
Plan 1–1.5 hours to fully explore the exhibits and watch the documentary.

Can I visit the museum on weekends?
No, it’s closed on Sundays and sometimes Saturdays. Check ahead for exact hours.

Is photography allowed inside the museum?
Yes, but follow staff guidelines to protect artifacts.

10. Plan Your Nha Trang Adventure

The Alexandre Yersin Museum is a gem for history and science lovers visiting Nha Trang, Vietnam. From Yersin’s groundbreaking plague discovery to his simple life in Nha Trang, this museum offers a unique glimpse into a remarkable legacy. Pair it with a beach stroll or a visit to Po Nagar Cham Towers for a perfect day. Back to our Top Beaches in Vietnam Guide to explore more things to do in Nha Trang!