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There’s no wrong time to visit Vietnam. The country has a tropical monsoon climate, with the south or southwesterly monsoon dominating from May to September and the northeast monsoon from October to April. So figuring out the best time to visit Vietnam depends on which parts of the country you want to visit – unless you’re willing to be caught in a daily downpour or don’t mind fierce temperatures and high humidity.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

Weather in vietnam by month, best time to visit sapa (north vietnam), best time to visit south vietnam, when is the rain season in vietnam, visiting vietnam during festivals.

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If you intend to see a bit of everything, you need to work around the regional weather differences. Overall, autumn / winter (September - December) and spring (March and April) are probably the most favourable seasons if you’re planning to cover the whole country.

But, the best time to visit Vietnam varies depending on the region, as the country experiences a diverse climate due to its elongated geography.

North Vietnam

In the North, including cities like Hanoi and Sapa, the ideal time to visit is from October to April when the weather is cooler and less humid, perfect for trekking and sightseeing.

  • Best Time: October to April
  • Weather: Cooler and less humi
  • Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, cultural visits to temples and historical site
  • Avoid: May to September due to hot and humid conditions, heavy rainfall

South Vietnam

The Central region, encompassing places like Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An, is best visited from February to May when the rainfall is moderate and the temperatures are warm but not scorching.

  • Best Time: February to May
  • Weather: Moderate rainfall, warm temperatures
  • Activities: Beach visits, historical tours, water sports
  • Avoid: Late May to November due to typhoon season and heavy rains

The South, including bustling Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is favourable for travel from December to April, avoiding the monsoon season and making the most of the tropical climate.

  • Best Time: December to April
  • Weather: Dry and less humid
  • Activities: Exploring urban areas, river cruises, visiting tropical forests
  • Avoid: May to November due to monsoon season, high humidity and rainfall

terraced-rice-fields-sapa-vietnam-shutterstock_541224970

Make sure to visit the rice fields in Sapa © Shutterstock

Not surabout the best time to visit Vietnam? We divided Vietnam's weather by month to help you decide the optimal time for your visit, ensuring that you're prepared for whatever climatic nuances each region has to offer. From the chilly winters in the north to the tropical summers in the south, here's what you can expect in terms of weather throughout the year in this captivating country.

Visiting Vietnam in January

In January , cold winter weather hits the north . This is often accompanied by fine persistent mists, which could spoil your views at Ha Long Bay. There’s also the chance of ground frost in higher regions, or even a rare snowfall. Don’t let it put you off outdoor activities though – while January is the coldest month in mountainous areas, such as Sa Pa, rainfall is at its lowest, making perfect trekking conditions. Hanoi averages a pleasant 20ºC.

The southern end of the country is firmly into the dry season come January, so it’s a good time to explore cities such as Ho Chi Minh . And for post-city downtime make for beaches within easy reach of the capital, such as at Phan Thiet and Mui Ne . It’s a fantastic time to try water-related activities, such as diving , around Phu Quoc.

Nha Trang and Da Nang beaches also start to beckon in January, as the central coast sees the tail end of the rains.

Visiting Vietnam in February

Vietnam sees optimum weather conditions all-round in February . The south and the central coast, are perfect for beach bums, with just a smattering of rain perhaps on the beaches between Hoi An and Da Nang. If you can tear yourself away from the sands near Da Nang to dip into the back streets of the city, you’re in for some of the best street food in Vietnam . The north sees the chill lifting, leaving clear and warm days for hiking and exploring the region.

Dominating the calendar is Tet , or the Lunar New Year, and the biggest festival in Vietnam. While it’s wonderfully festive throughout, note that much of the country shuts down during this period, such as restaurants and museums. Also, accommodation can be hard to come by, as the Vietnamese take their holidays, and the transport system is stretched.

Visiting Vietnam in March

In terms of the weather, March is perhaps the best month to visit Vietnam, especially if you want to see the whole country . Temperatures in the north are rising, making March a perfect time for adventure and trekking in the highlands and mountains. Clear skies around Ha Long Bay make it an ideal time to take a boat tour, stopping off at the beguiling Cat Ba Island.

Dry weather means you can visit the awesome Phong Nha Caves in Phong Nha-ke Bang National Park , which boasts the world’s biggest cave.

You can be sure of sunshine and hot days in the south, which means lazy days on the beaches and water-based activities are a must, also on beaches on the central coast, such as at Nha Trang.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam © Shutterstock

Visiting Vietnam in April

Temperatures in the north are rising in April as summer approaches, and some rain is not uncommon. But it’s still very pleasant and great for hiking, with spring flowers in full bloom making the region especially beautiful.

The centre of Vietnam entices with blue skies and sunshine, so make for charming town of Hoi An and the nearby beach of An Bang, and the broad sands at Da Nang. Further south, Nha Trang is at its best. Temperatures in the city of Hué are agreeable and the highlands experiences great weather at this time.

There's a chance of some rain in southern Vietnam, but with mostly clear skies and temperatures hitting 31ºC it’s still great for sun worshippers on the south’s beautiful beaches.

Visiting Vietnam in May

The south is getting wetter in May as it moves into its monsoon season , but it’s easy to avoid the short afternoon downpours. The north is hotting up and seeing more rain, although it’s still mostly dry and great for exploring the great outdoors. The central coast is the place to be this month , with hot, sunny days.

Visiting Vietnam in June

June isn't the best time to visit Vietnam. The rainy season in the south is in full swing and floods are common, and rainfall is increasing in the central highlands. The north is heating up and getting wetter too, meaning trekking can be hazardous – so bring appropriate footwear and outer layers if that’s on your itinerary. But don’t let the rain deter you from visiting Vietnam. The central coast is at its best , so perfect for idling away some time on the beaches near Hoi An, Da Nang and Lang Co, and the south still has plenty of dry hours in the day. Hanoi in the north and the Mai Chau Valley are still mostly dry. Added to which, visitor numbers in Vietnam tend to be fewer in June.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in June .

Visiting Vietnam in July

July is a similar story to June: heavy downpours occurring at both ends of the country. Temperatures reach their peak in the north and the central coast is a searing 31ºC, on average. But if you don’t mind a roasting, it’s still a good month to hit the beaches, as there are still plenty of clear days, and the rain offsets some of the heat. Rain in the central highlands means trekking conditions are poor. Also, transport can be more complicated, sometimes washing out roads and cutting off the more remote villages. Hanoi tends to be very wet.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in July .

Danang, Vietnam © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

Danang, Vietnam © Galina Savina/Shutterstock

Visiting Vietnam in August

If you’ intend to trek in Vietnam avoid visiting in August : the mountains of the north and the central highlands are experiencing peak rainfall now. And the deluge of rain at Ha Long Bay means you should forget about going on a boat tour this month. Conditions on the central coast are, on the whole, still pretty good, especially at Nha Trang , although the fine days are coming to an end. While the south is fully ensconced in its wet season, it’s not exactly a bad time to visit, with plenty of rain-free hours in the day to enjoy.

Visiting Vietnam in September

September is officially the start of the best time to visit Vietnam, although it can never be pinned down to months. The north and south are experiencing a similar story: temperatures are high but it’s getting drier, opening up the possibility of trekking once more in the north, around Sa Pa . The central coast and central highlands , however, are getting very wet indeed, with storms on the horizon.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in September .

Visiting Vietnam in October

If trekking and other outdoor adventure activities are your bag and you’re wondering when to visit Vietnam, October is a great month. The sun puts its hat back on in the north, and dry weather makes for ideal conditions in Sa Pa and the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark in Ha Giang province. It’s a good time to explore the picturesque Mai Chau Valley, its rice fields a golden colour during the harvest season, against a backdrop of jagged mountains, and visit the minority White Thai villages.

Sunbathing in central Vietnam is over, however, as the rain dumps down, and storms make it difficult to get around. It’s best to avoid Hoi An, in October and November, when serious flooding can mean water in the streets can be knee- or waist high.

Mekong Delta Vietnam © ImaginativeGifts/Shutterstock

The Mekong Delta is a beautiful region to visit © Shutterstock

Visiting Vietnam in November

Balmy temperatures in the south and favourable conditions in the north make this an ideal month to visit either end of the country. Take your pick of the beaches in the south, or go trekking in the north. November is also the best time of year to visit Vietnam for a cruise at Ha Long Bay.

It’s a different picture along the central coast. The wet season starts with a flourish around Nha Trang, and be warned that when the northeasterly winter monsoon hits, the riptides between Da Nang and Hoi An become particularly dangerous.

Read all about the weather in Vietnam in November .

Visiting Vietnam in December

This is one of the most fun and certainly part of the best time to visit Vietnam. Most of Vietnam enjoys dry conditions and basks in sunshine by December . Central Vietnam is the exception, which is gradually emerging from its rainy season. So it’s a good time to head to the southern coast if you want to soak up some rays and rack up some time on Vietnam’s gorgeous beaches . Beaches such as Mui Ne, or on the island of Phu Quoc are great in this month.

It’s also a good time to visit Ho Chi Minh City , with temperatures averaging a comfortable 26ºC.

If you’re planning a Christmas getaway be aware that things get booked up way in advance, so plan ahead.

Outdoor activities in the north are good in December. It is somewhat chilly, however, especially in the mountains – so pack extra layers.

hoi-an-vietnam-shutterstock_560192422

Celebrate Newyears in Hoi An © Shutterstock

The best time to visit Sapa, located in northern Vietnam, largely depends on what you're looking to experience. For those keen on trekking and enjoying the lush landscapes, the optimal time is between September and November or from March to May.

During these months, the weather is fairly stable with warm days and cool nights, offering clear skies and stunning views of the Hoang Lien Son mountain range. September to November showcases Sapa in full harvest season, offering golden terraced rice fields that are nothing short of breathtaking. On the other hand, if you're fascinated by cultural experiences, visiting during the Lunar New Year, usually falling in late January to mid-February, offers a unique insight into local traditions, although it will be quite cold.

However, be prepared for a wetter experience if you opt for a summertime visit, as June to August is Sapa's rainy season. While the landscape is incredibly lush, trekking can be more challenging due to slippery paths. Choose your timeframe according to your interests, whether it's trekking, cultural immersion, or landscape photography, and Sapa will not disappoint.

Sapa-things-to-do-in-Vietnam

Come between September and November to see the rice fields! © Shutterstock

The best time to visit South Vietnam, including destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is from December to April. During these months, the region experiences dry, sunny weather with less humidity, making it ideal for urban exploration, river cruises, and tropical forest visits.

This is also a great time for beach activities along the southern coast. The absence of monsoons during this period means fewer disruptions to travel plans and more comfortable conditions for outdoor adventures. However, if you're interested in experiencing local festivals, the Lunar New Year, usually occurring from late January to mid-February, offers a unique cultural insight, albeit at a time when many services may be closed.

It's advisable to avoid the wet season from May to November if you're not a fan of high humidity and heavy rainfall, as these conditions can impact travel and outdoor activities. Overall, the dry months provide the most favorable conditions for a diverse range of activities and experiences in South Vietnam.

woman-float-market-mekong-delta-vietnam-shutterstock_90906923

Floating market on the Mekong Delta in Vietnam © Shutterstock

The rainy season in Vietnam varies depending on the region:

  • North Vietnam (e.g., Hanoi, Sapa ) : The rainy season typically lasts from May to September. During this time, the north experiences heavy rainfall, particularly in July and August. The mountainous areas like Sapa can be especially wet and slippery.
  • Central Vietnam (e.g., Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An): The central region has its rainy season from September to December. This period often sees typhoons and very heavy rains, particularly in October and November.
  • South Vietnam (e.g., Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta): The rainy season here is from May to November. Rain usually comes in short, heavy bursts and is often at night, making it possible to still enjoy some daytime activities.

When you are deciding on when to go to Vietnam it's worth looking at the calendar of annual festivals, so that you can perhaps plot them on your itinerary.

The most important festival is Tet, the Vietnamese New Year, and lasts for seven days sometime between the last week of January and the third week of February. Families get together to celebrate and there's a party-like atmosphere in the cities, with colourful decorations adorning the streets, the scent of incense in the air, and glorious fireworks displays filling the skies.

The majority of festivals take place in spring, with a second flurry in the autumn months. One festival you might want to make a note of, however, is Tet: not only does most of Vietnam close down for the week, but either side of the holiday local transport services are stretched to the limit and international flights are filled by returning overseas Vietnamese.

TET: the Vietnamese New Year

If we're talking about the best time to visit Vietnam, we can't ignore TET. Tet or Tet Nguyen Dan, is Vietnam's most important annual festival lasting seven days. Typically falling between late January and mid-February during the new moon, Tet is a time for family reunions, welcoming ancestral spirits, and celebrating the New Year. Interestingly, everyone in Vietnam becomes a year older at Tet, as age is counted by the new year, not individual birthdays.

In preparation for Tet, the excitement builds, culminating in fireworks displays on the eve since firecrackers were banned in 1995. A week prior, the Ong Tau festival kicks off, honoring the god of the hearth. Families prepare by cleaning the house thoroughly and making offerings to Ong Tau.

Tet is a time for fresh starts. Debts are settled, and new clothes and haircuts are acquired if affordable. Charms for good luck are placed around homes, and the first moments of the New Year are considered crucial for setting the tone for the year ahead. The characteristics of the first visitor on Tet morning can also influence a family's fortune for the entire year, making this a significant aspect of the celebration.

What is Tet?

  • Full Name: Tet Nguyen Dan
  • Meaning: Festival of the first day
  • Duration: 7 days
  • Time: Last week of January to the third week of February, on the new moon night
  • Purpose: Celebrate renewal and hope for the New Year, family reunions, and welcoming ancestral spirits.

When Does it Happen?

  • Calendar: Falls on the new moon night between late January and mid-February.
  • Counting Age: Everyone in Vietnam becomes a year older as age is reckoned by the new year, not individual birthdays.

Crucial Moments

  • First Minutes and Hours: Set the pattern for the year.
  • Avoid: Arguments, swearing, or breaking anything, especially during the first three days.
  • The First Visitor: Good Luck or Bad Luck
  • Ideal Visitor: Respected, wealthy, and happily married individuals are considered good luck.
  • Avoid: Bereaved, unemployed, accident-prone, or pregnant visitors are considered ill-favored.
  • Responsibility: The first visitor's attributes could affect the family's luck for the whole year.

Old Vietnamese man preparing altar with foods for the last meal of year. The penultimate New Years Eve - Tat Nien, the meal finishing the entire year. Vietnam lunar new year © Vietnam Stock Images/Shutterstock

Old Vietnamese man preparing altar with foods during TET ©Shutterstock

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 13.11.2023

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When is the best time to visit Vietnam? 

The best time to visit Vietnam is from March to April when rainfall is low and temperatures are milder.

In a country more than 1,000 miles long, the weather in Vietnam varies considerably as you go from north to south, from a temperate to a tropical climate. While this variety makes Vietnam a year-round destination, spring (March to April) is typically the best time to visit the entire country, when days are generally pleasant, temperatures are moderate and rainfall is light. Tropical monsoons bring heavy rains and occasional flooding during other parts of the year, while extreme temperatures can make summer days uncomfortably hot and sticky.

Below is a guide for the best time to visit different regions of Vietnam….

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When to visit North Vietnam (Sapa, Hanoi, Halong Bay)

An Intrepid guide leading her tour past rice paddy fields in Sapa, Vietnam

The north of Vietnam experiences cold dry winters from December to February, where overnight temperatures can dip to 39°F (4°C). The summer months (May to August) are typically very hot and humid. The best time to visit northern Vietnam is during spring (March to April) and autumn (September to November), when days are generally warm and sunny.

When to visit Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An)

Woman looking at all the brightly coloured lanterns at a shop in Hoi An, Vietnam

The coast of central Vietnam is often battered with typhoons during its wet season. It’s difficult to predict when these heavy rains and hurricane-like winds can hit coastal cities like Hoi An, but generally, typhoon seasons run from August to November. The rainy season usually subsides in February, when you can expect warmer temperatures and more sunshine. While travelers will experience pleasant weather in Central Vietnam any time between February and August, sunny 86°F(30°C ) days are the norm in July and August.

When to visit South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta)

A collection of colourful boats on the shoreline and in the water at a beach in the south of Vietnam

South Vietnam experiences warm, pleasant temperatures year-round, making travel good at any time. The dry season generally runs from December to May and a rainy season runs from June through November. While flooding can occur, rain usually comes in short bursts and rarely impacts travel. In fact, the monsoon season is often the best time for photography as dramatic thunderheads float across the Mekong Delta and rice fields turn a vibrant emerald green. Some, however, might find temperatures unbearable from March to May, when the mercury regularly reaches 104°F (40°C).

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Best for: exploring Hoi An’s Old Town, swimming and other water-based activities

While it might be winter, January is considered one of the best times to visit Vietnam as the country experiences warm, sunny and relatively dry weather. Temperatures and weather patterns can differ slightly depending on your location in the north, south or central part of Vietnam but, on average, you can expect highs of around 77°F and low humidity levels.

The atmosphere is also likely to be festive thanks to various Luna New Year (Tet) celebrations happening around the country, so make sure you get involved as much as you can. Popular destinations to visit during January include Hoi An and the southern islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao for some much-needed beach time.

Best for: bar hopping in Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta day trips and lounging at rooftop pools

Weather patterns are generally at their best in February, meaning mostly dry and sunny days with temperatures at an average of 73°F. Central and south Vietnam tend to be warmer than the north, so if you’re after a beach holiday, head to the southern islands for ultimate relaxation or to Ho Chi Minh City if you want those rooftop pool vibes.

February is also likely to be busy with Luna New Year (Tet) festivities ongoing, but you can escape all the hustle and bustle on a day trip to the Mekong Delta, where water levels are high enough to see the floating markets in all of their glory.

A tablescape laden with plates of traditional Vietnamese cuisine

Best for: exploring national parks, rainforest walks and dining on Vietnamese cuisine

Temperatures in March are on the rise, especially in central and southern Vietnam, where highs can get to a sweat-inducing 84°F+. Northern Vietnam is still relatively cool with plenty of sunshine during the month, so you can get outside and start exploring some of this country’s beautiful national parks and rainforest areas. There’s also never a bad time to try Vietnamese cuisine but March is one of the best months for growing star fruit and rambutan, so make sure to taste these sweet snacks during your trip.

Best for: Hue Festival celebrations, learning about ancient traditions and temple visits

April is still firmly entrenched in Vietnam’s ‘best time to visit’ season and enjoys warm but comfortable temperatures; however, a transitional period (weather-wise) is just around the corner, so expect an increase in rainfall and humidity levels, especially in the south. The peak season crowds are also starting to thin out in April, so it’s a good time to visit popular temples such as Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi and Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue.

Best for: pottery village visits, exploring historical buildings and wandering through markets

While May is technically the first month of the wet season, it still remains a popular time to visit Vietnam because of its generally favorable weather. However, you can expect different weather patterns depending on your location due to the varying climates. Rainfall is starting to increase in the northern regions, such as Hanoi and the Sapa Valley, while central Vietnam retains temperatures of around 86°F and enjoys blue skies and relatively dry days.

Best for: museum visits, cycling and trips to Con Dao National Park

While it boasts the title of ‘hottest month in Vietnam’, June is still a relatively good month to visit the central regions of the country with sunny days that are perfect for cycling and relaxing on the beaches in Danang and Nha Trang. The same can’t be said for the south, where downpours are now a daily occurrence. The slight positive, if you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City and Can Tho in June, is that while these daily showers are heavy, they’re often short-lived and occur in the afternoon, giving you plenty of time to wander outside in the mornings.

While it’s raining, you might want to spend your time in some of the fascinating museums in Ho Chi Minh City, such as the War Remnants Museum and the Reunification Palace or do some serious shopping while you wait for the rain to ease up. June also marks the start of Green Turtle nesting season on the beaches of Con Dao Island. If you’re in the vicinity, visiting Con Dao National Park to hear about their conservation program will add another layer of awesomeness to your trip.

The turquoise waters and surrounding beach of Paradise Island, Vietnam

Best for: beach days, diving and checking out UNESCO World-Heritage listed sites

July is considered to be in the middle of the low season in Vietnam, so popular destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi are less crowded and accommodation is generally cheaper. However, the weather varies a lot from region to region, so you must plan accordingly to avoid disappointment or disruption to your travel plans.

Central Vietnam’s weather patterns remain relatively the same as in previous months, so spending time in Hue and Hoi An are good options if you’re into plenty of sunshine and rain-free days. The northern regions, such as Halong Bay and Sapa experience hot, stormy weather with temperatures reaching 86°F+ most days, while the south is still firmly in its wet season, so a mix of rainy days and sunny weather is the norm.

Best for: watching baby Green Turtles hatch, learning how to cook Vietnamese food and beach lounging

If you’re set on trekking through the mountainous regions of northern Vietnam, then August isn’t the month to travel in, but if you’re more interested in lounging out on beaches in Hoi An and Danang, then start blocking out the dates in your calendar – you’re good to go.

Yes, temperatures in central Vietnam can reach beyond 86°F+ but short bursts of rain are common (especially towards the end of the month), and they’ll give you a slight reprieve from the heat. Watching baby Green Turtles hatch should also be on the agenda if you’re visiting Con Dao Island as they start their slow but adorable journey to the sea from mid-August onwards.

Best for: Mid-Autum Festival celebrations, trips to Hoan Kiem Lake and exploring the Mu Cang Chai valley

September sees both the northern and southern regions emerge from their hot and humid seasons while central Vietnam enters its monsoonal era – think torrential downpours and flooding in places such as Hoi An and the caves of Phong Nha. While typhoon season technically started in June (and runs until November), they’re more likely to occur in September, so be aware of changing weather conditions and keep up to date with local advice.

Destinations like Hanoi and Phu Quoc experience 14 and 17 days of rain respectively (out of the month), so they still promise plenty of days where the sun is shining and temperatures aren’t too warm. There’s also celebration in the air thanks to the Mid-Autumn Festival and Vietnam Independence Day, both occurring in September. Why not make the most of these cultural events and immerse yourself as much as you can?

Best for: Keo Pagoda Festival celebrations, Halloween festivities and day trips to Moc Chau

While October’s weather isn’t optimal country-wide, it’s still possible to have a great holiday in Vietnam during this time - in fact, it’s probable. Temperatures are starting to come down again after summer heat in the northern regions, while typhoons are less likely to occur in the south. However, central Vietnam is still in the thick of its wet period so it’s best to avoid those areas if you want to spend your holiday outside enjoying the country’s beautiful landscapes.

Two women kayaking the peaceful waters of Halong Bay, Vietnam

Best for: Halong Bay cruises, fishing and mountain hiking

Move aside central Vietnam; November is the northern regions’ time to shine (literally). The rainy days of the summer season are finally gone (mostly) and temperatures are no longer stifling, so it’s the perfect time to explore the country’s breathtaking mountains.

Beachside destinations such as Phan Tiet and Mui Ne in Vietnam’s south are also ready to wave goodbye to typhoon season and hello to excited travelers looking to make the most of the region’s sunny, clear weather. Indulge in 80°F days and spend your time laying out on pristine beaches or swimming in crystal-clear waters.

Best for: island life, performing Tai Chi and Christmas and New Year's Eve celebrations 

Fantastic weather is well and truly on the cards for southern Vietnam in December with near-perfect conditions and comfortable temperatures. Humidity levels are also low with little to no rainfall expected throughout the month so why not spend your time outside by walking in parks, laying out on a beach or participating in some Tai Chi?

Central Vietnam should still be avoided if you’re not keen on stormy weather; however, expected rainfall does decrease dramatically so it’s entirely possible to get lucky with a few clear days if you’re traveling to this region in September. Preparations for Christmas and New Years also ramp up as the month goes on with cities nationwide getting into the festive spirit by decorating storefronts and hosting markets. 

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

Josh Laskin

Vietnam has over 2,000 miles of coastline, densely forested mountains, rapidly growing cities and surrounding limestone islands, and its popularity as a travel destination has grown immensely in recent years — from five million visitors in 2010 to 15 million in 2018.

Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi bustle with mopeds and motorcycles, while street vendors offer a culinary display of the country's deeply-rooted history and culture. Vietnam's location in Southeast Asia, along with its ecological and cultural diversity, draws travelers from around the world, from budget-conscious backpackers to leisure travelers searching for a slice of paradise at its white sand beaches.

While the natural, cultural and historical wonders of Vietnam can be enjoyed throughout the year, the best times to go depend on where you intend to travel and what you'd like to do. Extreme weather is not uncommon in Vietnam, but this doesn't mean you can't visit during the rainy season. Simply put, make sure you're prepared for whatever a specific region and season may throw your way.

The Best Weather in Vietnam

The weather in Vietnam can vary greatly between the northern, central and southern parts of the country. Due to the country's topographical and ecological diversity, the weather can even differ within one region — for instance, the weather on one side of a mountain range may be significantly different from the opposite side.

North Vietnam

In the north, winter — which occurs between December and March — can bring cooler temperatures even at lower elevations. In the mountainous northwest, it sometimes gets cold enough to snow. The dry season in the north is from October to April, but shifts later in the season as you head south (it doesn't start until November around Hanoi). With summer (May through September) comes warmer temperatures and higher rainfall. Some of the best weather occurs in the spring and fall, which tend to remain dry.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam is hot and dry from mid-January through late August. Typhoons are not uncommon between October and December, with most of the rain occurring in November and early December. January through September is the best time to visit this region if you're hoping to stay dry.

South Vietnam

The temperature in the southern part of the country remains fairly consistent, often reaching the mid- to upper 90s regardless of season. The dry season takes place from November through April, and the wet season dominates the remainder of the year. During the wet season (May through October), the rain often comes in high-intensity afternoon downpours, leaving the rest of the day dry and sunny.

When to Visit Vietnam for Events

Tet Nguyen Dan, or Tet, is usually celebrated nationwide beginning on the first day of the Lunar New Year, which occurs in January or February. Tet is traditionally a time for people to spend with their families and welcome the arrival of spring. Because of this, busier cities like Hanoi tend to be less crowded, but there are no shortage of celebratory events.

Every year, hundreds of thousands of Buddhists from around the country make the pilgrimage to the Perfume Pagoda — a series of sacred caves — near Hanoi. Many arrive on the 15th of the first month (which often occurs in February or March) of the Vietnamese Lunar Calendar, which is when the Perfume Pagoda Festival takes place. While travelers can visit the Perfume Pagoda year-round, visiting during the Festival offers a glimpse into this long-lived tradition.

National Day, which takes place on September 2 each year, celebrates the day Ho Chi Minh declared Vietnam's independence. This patriotic day is a great time to be in one of Vietnam's major cities — specifically Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang or Hanoi — to experience the marches, fireworks, parades and other festivities.

Also known as Tết Trung Thu or the Full Moon Festival, the Mid-autumn Festival takes place during the eighth lunar month (usually mid- to late September). While this originated in China as a celebration of agriculture and harvests, Vietnam has its own unique traditions and ways to celebrate. Dancers and colorful costumes can be found in city streets, and illuminated lanterns accompany children as they sing songs while walking through neighborhoods.

When to Explore Vietnam's Cities

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are two of Vietnam's most popular cities to visit. While an argument can be made for visiting both cities any time of year, some seasons have more of a benefit over others.

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, is located in northern Vietnam and consequently experiences significantly different weather than south Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City. In the fall and spring, the weather in Hanoi tends to be mild and dry, while the weather in Ho Chi Minh City is most favorable during the winter. During the rainiest seasons, which occur from May to September in Hanoi and May to October in Ho Chi Minh City, travel plans can be disrupted, so travel to cities during this time may require flexibility — and plenty of rain gear.

When to Avoid the Crowds

Peak season in Vietnam generally occurs in the spring and fall throughout the country. Southern Vietnam can also get busy during the winter when the temperatures are cooler.

If avoiding crowds of other tourists is a priority, visiting during the summer is a safe bet throughout the country. In August (especially late August), daily temperatures may be slightly lower than in July but the fall crowds have not yet arrived. The colder temperatures in the north discourage many tourists from visiting the region during the winter as well, despite the fact that it is the dry season.

The Cheapest Time to Visit Vietnam

Affordable airfare.

Most trips to Vietnam either begin in Ho Chi Minh City in the south or Hanoi in the north. While the two regions offer unique experiences (which isn't to say you can't experience both), flying into Ho Chi Minh City is often cheaper.

Historical data collected by travel booking platform Skycanner.com suggests flying to Ho Chi Minh City from New York is cheapest in November. Flights from Seattle, Chicago, San Francisco, Dallas and Los Angeles all tend to be the cheapest around September. With the exception of Chicago and Dallas, which are around $576 and $731 round-trip, respectively, the lowest prices usually fall in the mid- $400 range.

If flying to Hanoi from New York or San Francisco, the cheapest month to travel is October ($531 from New York and $446 from San Francisco). If you are coming from Seattle, Chicago or Dallas, August and September are likely your best bet, with airfare from Seattle and Dallas dropping to the upper- $700 range and mid- $500 range from Chicago. Flights from Los Angeles can be found as low as $501 in November.

Affordable Lodging

An analysis of monthly data collected by hotel booking platform Priceline.com, looking at hotels 2.5 stars and above from 2017 to the present, shows average accommodation pricing across the country does not fluctuate much on a month-to-month basis.

"Priceline data reveals that hotel prices in Vietnam tend to remain close to the overall average daily rate of $85 per night, irrespective of the time of year," Kevin O'Leary, Senior Analyst at Priceline, told TPG in an email. "While they do fluctuate, they rarely stray far away from the midpoint."

According to historical data collected by Kayak.com , however, if you are headed for one of Vietnam's major cities, you likely will experience both more price fluctuation and higher prices overall.

In Ho Chi Minh City, which recently ranked as Kayak.com's top three trending destination , hotels run between $102 and $131 per night, with July being the cheapest and December being the priciest months. Hotel prices in Hanoi are similar, with the cheapest prices found in February and July and the most expensive in October and March. Da Nang, which is located in central Vietnam, is one of the more expensive cities to spend the night in. Prices drop to around $152 in January and February, but frequently exceed $200, hitting a high of $238 in May.

Bottom Line

While there isn't really a "bad" time to visit Vietnam, the season will depict which region will have the best weather. Regardless of when you decide to travel, there will always be moderate temperatures and sunshine to be found somewhere in the country. And for those lucky enough to have a flexible schedule and a specific travel goal in mind, be sure to choose the appropriate season for the area you'd like to visit.

IMAGES

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COMMENTS

  1. When is The Best Time To Visit Vietnam

    The best time to visit South Vietnam, including destinations like Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, is from December to April. During these months, the region experiences dry, sunny weather with less humidity, making it ideal for urban exploration, river cruises, and tropical forest visits.

  2. Best Time to Visit Vietnam (Month by Month)

    When is the best time to visit Vietnam? The best time to visit Vietnam is from March to April when rainfall is low and temperatures are milder. In a country more than 1,000 miles long, the weather in Vietnam varies considerably as you go from north to south, from a temperate to a tropical climate.

  3. These Are the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

    January through September is the best time to visit this region if you're hoping to stay dry. South Vietnam. The temperature in the southern part of the country remains fairly consistent, often reaching the mid- to upper 90s regardless of season.