Your Must-Have Guide On The Best Time to Visit Vietnam

Your Must-Have Guide On The Best Time to Visit Vietnam

What’s the best time to visit Vietnam and why should you care? When you’re strategic about planning your vacation, you give yourself the opportunity to enjoy even more food, sights, and fun events.

Vietnam has an incredibly complex climate with several different altitudes. This unique geography means you can encounter monsoons as quickly as hot, sunny weather. It’s also home to several fascinating regions with diverse cuisines and customs.

There’s no need to wing it on your trip to Vietnam. When you’re done reading this guide, you’ll have the knowledge necessary to have a truly unforgettable trip.

Why Weather Varies So Much In Vietnam

Unlike other countries in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is made up of a distinctly long shape. This means that the country’s regions experience vastly different weather patterns, and some areas are even prone to extreme temperatures, wet season, and monsoons. So, if you want to make sure you have the most pleasant weather possible on your trip, you need to choose the time frame of your visit very carefully.

That said, there are three different regions in Vietnam that you should keep an eye on: Northern Vietnam, Central Vietnam, and Southern Vietnam, which is home to Ho Chi Minh City. Each region experiences weather somewhat differently depending on the season and has unique features that attract the attention of travelers. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach getaway or a rich historical adventure, Vietnam has something for you.

What is the Weather and Climate Like in Vietnam?

If there’s one thing Vietnam’s weather is known for, it’s monsoons. Thankfully, anyone looking to visit Vietnam will be relieved to know that there are only two monsoon season periods during the year. Beyond that, Vietnam also experiences a wet season and a dry season, and temperature changes throughout the year.

Monsoon Season

In Vietnam, monsoons encompass each region at different times of the year. For instance, Southern Vietnam experiences monsoons from May – September, while Central Vietnam is more prone to monsoons from October – April. This makes it easier than you might think to plan your visit, depending on which part of Vietnam you want to see.

It’s also important to remember that Southern Vietnam has a more tropical climate than its central and northern counterparts, which is why its rainy season, sometimes referred to as a tropical monsoon climate, is more severe than in other parts of the country. Even so, there are plenty of sunny days and blue skies to be found in Southern Vietnam all year round.

Temperatures

Despite the humidity in the southern region, temperatures in Vietnam are much more pleasant than you might expect. Even in the summer season, Southern Vietnam ranges between 28–29 Celsius or in the low 80s Fahrenheit. In contrast, central and northern regions experience a much more mild summer reason with a range of 22–27. Celsius, or in the mid-70s Fahrenheit.

In the winter time, Vietnam stays generally warm. In fact, Southern Vietnam maintains sunny weather and temperatures of 26 degrees Celsius or 78 degrees Fahrenheit. That means visitors can enjoy beach days with fewer crowds throughout the winter season.

Wet VS. Dry Season

Although the whole country still experiences some rain throughout the year, peak season typically occurs between June and November. From December to May, you can expect little rain while still enjoying the beautiful country in all its vibrant glory.

Vietnam’s Climate

This large country is split into two distinctive zones: a temperate zone and a tropical zone. The country enjoys four distinctive seasons, though it’s best known for its humid summer and rainy autumn.

Northern Vietnam, Central Vietnam, and Southern Vietnam all come with unique weather patterns, as well. One part of the country could be in the middle of their dry season, while another part could be getting some rain.

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam by Region

Since Vietnam is a large country, each region will come with a different subclimate and common weather patterns. Below is a brisk walkthrough on their north, central, and southern regions for your next trip.

While weather and region are important to consider, the best time to visit Vietnam also depends on your goals and personal tastes.

Northern Vietnam

Northern regions may not be as rainy or humid as Central and Southern Vietnam, but we still recommend visiting between October and April when the weather is cooler and drier. Recently, TikTok videos of flooding in the iconic city of Hanoi have gone viral, leading visitors to be wary of visiting Vietnam during the summer season.

In fact, many guests choose to visit in November or March, so you can expect these months to have a much larger tourist population. North Vietnam is home to many breathtaking sights, including the mountainous far north terrain. One of the best places to awe at Vietnam’s mountains is Ha Giang, a remote region gently nestled at the foot of these sprawling natural wonders.

On the other hand, Ha Long Bay is revered for its emerald waters and stunning limestone areas. Located in the northeastern area, Ha Long Bay now rivals Hanoi as one of the top tourist destinations across the whole country.

Whether you’re looking for towering mountains or serene waters, you won’t be disappointed when you visit Northern Vietnam!

Some of the best known locations in this area you should consider when visiting Vietnam are:

  • Hanoi – the capital of Vietnam with breathtaking architecture and tasty street food
  • Mai Chau – a quieter, rural area filled with beautiful nature and a slower pace of life
  • Ninh Binh – a small city located in the Red River Delta with large, stunning rivers

Central Vietnam

We recommend visiting Central Vietnam is from early February to August when the weather is most warm and dry. Peak tourist season in these area typically happens between April and August, which can be a good time to visit Central Vietnam if you want to partake in group tours and other exciting activities.

However, you may be able to find fewer crowds and generally cheaper accommodations between February and April without compromising on the best beach weather in the entire country. And if it’s a beach holiday you’re after, you won’t want to overlook the city of Da Nang, one of the top tourist destinations in the central region.

Da Nang beaches are located on the central coast of the country, set against the backdrop of stunning mountain ranges. Da Nang is also known for its history as a French colonial port, which makes it a good choice for history lovers looking to expand their cultural horizons.

Besides Da Nang, other must-see sights when you visit Central Vietnam include the immaculately preserved ancient town of Hoi An and the 19th-century citadel in Hue.

  • Da Nang – this coastal city is a must-see if you’re a passionate foodie or fashionista
  • Hue – this historical city contains fascinating moats, castles, and shrines
  • Nha Trang – this city is a famous tourist attraction with lovely beaches and dive spots

Southern Vietnam

In the southern most portion of Vietnam, humid weather can feel overwhelming during the summer months. That’s why many travelers visit Southern Vietnam in the dry season between October and April. This is also the time of year when monsoons are less likely, so you can see more sunny skies and less stress. Dry weather also makes it easier to get out and savor the southern regions stunning beaches, as well as iconic destinations like Ho Chi Minh City.

Ho Chi Minh City is arguably the most popular tourist destination across the country thanks to its booming urban atmosphere. Unlike more remote cities in Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh is the country’s financial capital, as well as the most popular place to observe Vietnam National Day or Independence Day.

This city offers countless modern attractions, fine dining, live entertainment, and everything in between. Of course, that doesn’t mean Ho Chi Minh is devoid of classic Vietnamese culture. Along with the sprawling city skyline, visitors can adventure to historic sights like the Cu Chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, and more.

Beyond Ho Chi Minh City, other nearby destinations can be reached by taking a quick ferry to Phu Quoc Island, a breathtaking island just off the southern coast of South Vietnam. Phu Quoc Island is a must for your Vietnam beach vacation, especially if you’re looking for a more secluded experience away from the crowds in the city.

  • Ho Chi Minh City (or Saigon) –  As the capital of Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City is a great place to visit. this heavily populated city is home to the famous Saigon river
  • Can Tho – this scenic city is famed for its complex canals and bustling markets
  • Mũi Né – this lovely town is filled with lively restaurants and small businesses

Cities, Towns, and Islands To Visit In Vietnam Based on the Month

No matter which time of the year you want to visit Vietnam, there’s a peak season with your name on it. The list below is filled with major cities, popular towns, and charming islands separated by their ideal months.

January

Do you prefer weather that’s on the chillier side, but not too cold? Hanoi is a strong January pick for having brisk temperatures that range between 50 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit.

This is the city you visit when you want a blend of the old and the new. You’ll be able to experience their fascinating Old Quarter and see architecture that’s centuries old. When you’ve had a nice history lesson, you can swing by their local marketplaces and restaurants for a bite to eat.

If you’re a passionate fan of sandy beaches and rolling waves instead, consider visiting Phu Quoc. This gorgeous island enjoys a drier season in January and mellow temperatures, so it’s ideal for many outdoor activities.

February

With plenty of festivals and agreeable weather, February is one of the peak tourist months in Vietnam. The easygoing temperatures of 60 to 75 degrees across the country are well-suited to most tourists.

North Vietnam sees quite a bit of sunshine, so Hanoi should still be high on your list of February destinations. While there will be occasionally chilly weather, there isn’t much rain or humidity during this month. Artists will adore this city’s Fine Arts Museum, while architecture fans will swoon over the pagodas and shrines.

March

The only month with more pleasant weather than February is definitely March. This month sees a gentler rainy season in multiple parts of the country, particularly the south. Fortunately, it isn’t unbearably humid.

If you have a March destination in mind, consider swinging by the romantic and scenic Dalat. This southern Vietnamese city is a popular place for vacations and special events alike, considered by some to be the ultimate tourist destination. The rolling highlands and breathtaking waterfalls are just a few of the city’s highlights.

April

This month is where you’ll see more dynamic weather throughout the country. While there’s still plenty of sunshine, April is still a rainy season. You’ll see surprise drizzles and storms that crop up from time to time. As long as you pack an umbrella and raincoat, you’ll have a wonderful time.

Are you a foodie who absolutely has to try every last signature Vietnamese dish? You’ll definitely want to visit Da Nang in April due to its fascinating local food culture and seemingly endless restaurants. One of the most popular food items is the hot and tasty banh mi, a French-inspired sandwich with all sorts of fillings.

May

If you’re comfortable in hot weather, May is likely the month for you. Vietnam sees some truly scorching temperatures ranging from a tolerable 80 degrees to nearly 98 degrees Fahrenheit.

On the other hand, this season sees much less rainfall. If you don’t enjoy the rainy season and crave long, sunny days, you’ll be quite happy during May.

Ha Giang is a must-see destination if you’re traveling around this time, offering natural beauty and a slew of fun outdoor activities. Motorcycling, long mountain treks, and shopping for local food are a few activities you can add to your list.

June

This month sees consistently warm temperatures whether you’re in the northern, central, or southern regions. Expect a range of hot and sunny weather ranging from 77 to 93 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you stepped through a time machine, add the historical town of Hue to your travel list. This famous destination contains the beautiful Forbidden Purple City, an enclave that used to belong to emperors and royals.

July

July is a pretty complex month for Vietnam, showing drastically different weather patterns depending on where you go. The northern region sees a rather hot and rainy season, while the southern portion is on the drier side. Central Vietnam is the most unpredictable and sees on-and-off showers.

When the hustle and bustle of the city isn’t calling your name, consider Pu Luong. This rustic nature reserve gives you a little respite from the noise with gorgeous rice fields and towering mountains.

August

This month is where Vietnamese weather really turns up the heat! It’s not only sweltering and humid, multiple regions of the country will experience an intense rainy season. Expect a temperature range hovering between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.

Does that mean you should skip August for your destination? Absolutely not. Sapa is a dashing town providing some of the most breathtaking scenery you’ve ever seen. The Muong Hoa Valley is a striking sight with its curling rice fields, while the Fansipan Mountain is a fantastic pick for hikers.

September

If you’re not worried about a little humidity, September is your month. Both central and southern Vietnam will experience wet and warm weather with an average of 75 to 95 degrees. Northern Vietnam is a little cooler, though, and doesn’t get quite as much rain.

If you’re a fan of watersports such as kitesurfing or sailing, you’ll have a fantastic time in Mui Ne. This charming little beach town has a prime location next to the sea mixed with some perfectly windy weather.

October

Vietnam’s wet season starts to wrap up in October, ushering in drier and cooler days. On average, the temperature gets quite comfortable at around 75 to 78 degrees Fahrenheit. Northern Vietnam is particularly pleasant, though you’ll still get sudden rainfall here and there.

Ho Chi Minh City (also known as Saigon) is the place to go once the hot, humid weather starts to ease up a little. History buffs will have their hands full with their history museums, such as the Fine Arts Museum and the Museum Of Vietnamese History.

November

While Northern Vietnam gets chillier in November with temperatures at around 65 degrees Fahrenheit, other parts of the country are warmer. Central Vietnam still tends to hit highs of 80 to 83 degrees, making it one of the more pleasant places to visit.

If you don’t mind a little chill, consider the dazzling Ha Long Bay in the northeastern part of the country. Composed of several islands and islets, there are plenty of exciting activities to do such as scuba diving or boat tours.

December

With very low humidity and cooler days, December is a popular choice for tourists who want to beat the heat and the wet season. The entire country experiences a consistent dry season with temperatures ranging from 70 degrees to occasional 90 degree highs.

The Mekong Delta is a top pick during December since you’ll enjoy agreeable weather with sunny days and much less rainfall. With a mixture of ancient temples, floating markets, and charming rice paddies, you’ll never run out of interesting sights.

Special Occasions And Events To Look Out For

Vietnam is a dynamic cultural destination that merges ancient traditions with the modern age, and understanding the region’s unique events and special occasions can help you get the most out of your trip. No matter which season you plan on visiting, you’ll be able to find a thrilling occasion to take your adventure to the next level.

Tet Holiday (Lunar New Year)

This holiday goes by several names – Tet Holiday, the Lunar New Year, or the Vietnamese name ‘Tet Nguyen Dan’. No matter what you call it, this festivity is breathtaking in both its scope and its history.

The Tet Holiday is a lavish celebration of spring and all the beauty that comes with it. Its origins lie in former Chinese rule dating back several hundreds of years. This celebration occurs over the course of three days with all sorts of fun activities and delicious food. Due to the amount of preparation needed for the festival beforehand, it can technically go on for a full week.

The dates shift a little depending on the year, with the official day landing either in the middle of January or February. If you want to swing by Vietnam during the Tet holiday, try the week before and the week directly after. This way you’ll be able to enjoy this stunning celebration in its entirety.

Just a few of the customs you’ll see during the Tet Holiday are:

  • Watching brilliant fireworks shows
  • Enjoying street parades with floats and lion dances
  • Tasting all sorts of delicious food such as sticky rice cakes or melon soup

Perfume Pagoda Festival

Want even more exciting festivals to enjoy between January and February? The Perfume Pagoda Festival crops up right after the Tet Holiday to provide a spiritual journey for thousands of people.

This festival has its origins in Buddhism, revolving around a pilgrimage leading up to the legendary Pagoda. It’s here that many Vietnamese will pray for good health, prosperity, or bearing children.

Even if you’re not spiritual, this festival is a lovely sight to behold for the natural beauty. With winding rivers, ancient architecture, and lush mountains, it’ll be an unforgettable part of any trip to Vietnam.

A few of the events you can expect to enjoy during the Perfume Pagoda Festival are:

  • Soothing meditation sessions
  • Traditional folk singing
  • Traditional games like rice blowing
  • Exciting boat races

Mid Autumn Festival

Do you plan on visiting Vietnam sometime in September or October? You’ll be in the perfect spot to enjoy the delightful Mid Autumn Festival (sometimes called The Children’s Festival).

Occurring between the middle of September to later in October, this festival is a feast for the eyes and soul. The celebration’s origin also dates back to ancient China, with the Vietnamese adding their own spin centuries after its creation.

There’s an old tale about the festival that centers on a man named Cuoi who flew to the moon on a banyan tree. Similar to the ‘man in the moon’ in Western countries, many Vietnamese see the image of a man beneath a tree when looking at a full moon.

This sensational festival is so beloved, some locals will spend weeks preparing for its arrival. One of the must-try foods of this festival is the ornate mooncake, a thick and chewy cake covered in whimsical designs. The fillings can be savory or sweet, though lotus and red bean paste are the most popular.

A few of the spectacular sights you’ll see during this festival are:

  • Thrilling festival songs and lion dancing
  • Rainbow banners, flags, and lanterns as far as the eye can see
  • Relaxing and gazing up at the moon during the quieter hours

The beginning of the new lunar calendar is not only the milestone observed in Vietnam’s culture. One of the area’s most enduring traditions is the Mid Autumn Festival, which occurs between September and October. You might also hear this celebration called the Moon Festival, as it represents the first offering of rice and wheat to the moon after a successful harvest.

With that in mind, it’s no surprise that savoring delicious moon cakes is among our favorite Mid Autumn Festival traditions. You’ll also observe locals decorating their homes and gathering outside to honor the moon. In many Southeast Asian countries, the moon acts as a symbol of harmony and unity between ourselves and the divine, and attending this festival is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese living.

Hue Festival

Unlike Tet and Moon Festival, Hue Festival has slightly more modern roots. Hue Festival originated in 2000 as a way to honor the former capital city of Vietnam. Notably, the Hue Festival is only observed every two years, typically between April and June.

During this time, more than 40 destinations in the ancient city become the center of attention, including the citadel and An Dinh Palace. Throughout the city, guests can experience lively parades, kite flying, endless street food vendors, art exhibitions, and musical performances, just to name a few.

Simply put, the Hue Festival shines a light on Vietnam’s complex history and cultural roots, making it the perfect way to immerse yourself in every Vietnamese culture has to offer.

This cultural festival occurs every two years and celebrates several art forms, such as dancing and acting.

The Hue Festival lasts a full week, usually between April, May, and June. It’s an opportunity for all kinds of art organizations, local artists, and visitors to come together and celebrate what makes the country special. You’ll be able to see all sorts of events such as:

  • The Hue Poetry Festival
  • The Kite Flying Festival
  • Local art exhibitions
  • Street art performances
  • Showings of historical films

5 Expert Tips for Planning Your Trip to Vietnam

Don’t start planning your trip to Vietnam yet! These 5 expert tips will ensure you’re not missing out on enjoyable activities or walking around with aching feet.

Wear Breathable And Well-Fitting Shoes

This tip can’t be emphasized enough when visiting a country filled with mountain trails and dense cities. If you don’t wear breathable and well-fitting shoes, you’ll have to deal with blisters or potentially Athlete’s foot.

Running sneakers are a solid choice since they’re lightweight and keep your feet dry with more breathable materials. If you plan on going up any hiking trails or visiting rice paddies, you could also pack lightweight hiking boots.

Sandals or flip flops are good for the beach, but not long-term walking sessions.

Always Double-Check The Weather Before Planning

Why do we talk about the best time to visit Vietnam so much in this guide? Since this large country has both temperate and tropical zones, the weather can be rather dynamic – so plan ahead!

If you’re going to a region with more rainfall, make sure to pack some waterproof jackets and moisture-wicking socks. If you expect to get plenty of sunlight, wear a hat with a brim and stock up on sunscreen.

Pack Your Suitcase With Extra Convenient Items

You already know to keep your passport on you and stock up on bottled water, but what else? A few convenient items will go a long way in making sure you’re enjoying your trip to the fullest.

A prepaid SIM card is valuable when you don’t want to pay higher international rates for your phone bill. You can also fill up the card with only the amount you need for your trip.

A compact hand fan is handy for the hottest seasons. These little devices can be rechargeable by cord or battery—either way, you’ll be glad to have one.

Creating your own skincare kit will also help with Vietnam’s hot and humid weather. Little additions like bug spray and anti-itch ointment could mean the difference between a good or bad trip.

Be Adventurous When Trying Local Cuisine (You’ll Thank Us!)

Last but not least, don’t be shy when trying out Vietnamese cuisine. This spectacular country is filled to the brim with all sorts of dishes, whether you’re a meat lover or vegan.

You’ve probably heard of pho, but have you ever had the sweet and herbal pho made in the style of Southern Vietnam? How about bun cha with grilled pork, rice, and pickled vegetables? Whatever your favorite food style or dietary needs, there’s something for everyone.

Choosing The Best Time To Visit Vietnam Will Transform Your Travel Experience

The best time to visit Vietnam involves choosing a region and weather pattern that suits your lifestyle or tastes. Once you pick a compatible month and city, your unforgettable experience will fall neatly into place.

We’re here to help you visit Vietnam and leave transformed. Check out our other guides on Vietnam to learn more about this wonderful country.

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