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The Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Vietnam, According to Experts

Here's when to visit Vietnam for sunny weather, lower prices, and excellent sightseeing.

Best Times to Visit for Smaller Crowds

Best times to visit for good weather, best times to visit for lower prices, best times to visit for hiking in sa pa, best times to visit for cruising ha long bay, worst times to visit.

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Cinnamon and star anise perfume my memories of Vietnam, a country that lodged itself into my palate in fragrant, frenzied bursts. That alluring scent of pho was one of few constants as I traveled through vastly different landscapes, trekking through verdant rice terraces, dodging motorbikes en route to speakeasies, and standing face to face with an endangered monkey in my oceanfront outdoor shower — all within the span of two weeks. 

Vietnam is more than 1,000 miles long, a spectacularly slim country that’s only 30 miles wide at its narrowest point. Every region boasts its own allure as well as its own climate, which means you’ll need to carefully consider the time of your visit based on your desired itinerary. 

“As the climate varies so much from north to south, there will always be somewhere worth going in Vietnam, whatever time of year you travel,” says Melissa Matthews, regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah .

Here's a regional breakdown of the primary tourist seasons in Vietnam:

• High Seasons: North: September to November, March and April; Central: April to August; South: October to April 
• Shoulder Seasons: North: December to February, May to August; Central: September to March; South: September to December 
• Low Season: North: May to October; Central: September to May; South: May to September

Before you start planning your trip, read on to learn about the best times to visit Vietnam for hiking the majestic, mountainous rice terraces of Sa Pa, cruising the limestone marvels of Ha Long Bay, and avoiding the rainy monsoon season. 

Bang The Tran/Getty Images

The high season in Vietnam varies according to the region, so you’ll always be able to find a place that feels more secluded from the bustle of crowded beaches or cruise ships. Wet season attracts fewer crowds, says Matthews, which falls from May to October in the north, September to May in the central part of the country, and May to September in the south. 

Visiting during this time has plenty of perks, as you’ll likely be able to save on accommodations and travel costs. Popular restaurants and tours will be less overrun with tourists, offering a rare opportunity to better immerse yourself in the local culture as you tuck into bun cha on a sidewalk stool. However, bursts of rain and cloudy weather can dampen any plans to hike in Sa Pa or cruise along Ha Long Bay — two quintessential experiences you won’t want to miss. 

There are also an abundance of places that remain less crowded throughout the year, says Benjamin Kreuz, general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay — the resort itself is one of them, nestled in a private cove of Nha Trang that became my personal definition of paradise. Many visitors tend to prioritize other attractions as they make their way south, so natural wonders in the north like Ban Gioc Waterfall and the network of caves in Quang Binh remain less busy. 

Meet the Expert

• Melissa Matthews is the regional director for Southeast Asia and North America at luxury travel company Red Savannah.
• Benjamin Kreuz is the general manager of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay in Vietnam.

No matter when you visit, you’ll always find good weather somewhere in Vietnam. “Vietnam is a beautiful country with tropical weather, making it suitable for visits throughout the year,” says Kreuz. 

For those hoping to see Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and everything in between, it’s best to go in the dry season. “February and March are the best months to see the entire country from north to south in relatively dry weather,” says Matthews. She notes that Tet, or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, falls during this time and can last for up to 10 days. “During this time, most of the key sights in the cities are closed, as everyone goes back to their family villages to celebrate,” she says. She recommends heading to the beach during the festival and bookending your trip with time in the major cities. 

For a dry and temperate trip to Sa Pa or Hanoi in the north, head there from September to November, or in March and April, she suggests. A sunny beach visit to Hoi An or Nha Trang in the central region is best from April to August, while the Mekong Delta and Phu Quoc Island in the south are warmest from October to April. 

Vietnam is a relatively affordable destination all year long, with abundant and economical street food and comfortable hotels for all budgets. For your best chance at scoring low-cost flights and accommodations, consider traveling outside the peak tourist season. April, May, October, and November are excellent times, as you’ll still find warm weather throughout the country, but will have fewer tourists to contend with. 

Wand_Prapan/Getty Images

A visit to the verdant, terraced rice fields of Sa Pa are a must for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Overlooking the Muong Hoa Valley, the hills are surrounded by spectacular mountains and home to dozens of communities, including the Hmong and Red Dao peoples — many of whom open their homes for overnight stays and lead private or group trekking tours. You can reach this famed hiking destination by car from Hanoi in five hours, by a bus in six to eight hours, or on an overnight sleeper train. 

Matthews notes that this region tends to get colder from December to February, so it’s best to plan a trip from September to November or in March and April. Harvest season is also an unforgettable time to visit: In late August through September, the vibrant green hillsides turn a voluptuous shade of gold as the rice ripens. 

Nikada/Getty Images

Ha Long Bay, with its emerald waters and limestone towers, is one of the primary tourist destinations in Vietnam, and as such, has become increasingly overrun with cruise operators leading day tours. For a less crowded experience, consider booking an overnight cruise that will take you deeper into the bay — or to the equally beautiful, slightly less populated neighboring Lan Ha Bay. (I splurged for a two-night cruise with Orchid Cruises , one of the more luxurious tour operators). 

March, April, October, and November are ideal months to visit, as they tend to bring warm and sunny weather without as much humidity. You’ll also avoid the peak season, so while it’s still bound to be busy, you can enjoy kayaking through the tranquil waters and hiking Cat Ba island in relative peace. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is also a great opportunity for a snorkeling or scuba diving adventure. 

Nick Dolding/Getty Images

While Vietnam’s varied climate means there’s never really a bad time to visit, you may want to avoid traveling to the country during monsoon season. 

“When the monsoon hits, it is hard and heavy and very humid,” says Matthews, who suggests sightseeing in cities during the wet season, where you can still visit museums and historic temples between rainstorms. “Avoid the mountainous region of Sa Pa and definitely don’t book a cruise in Ha Long Bay, as storms will occur and boats are grounded,” she warns. 

If you do decide to travel during the rainy season, it’s best to remain flexible in your planning, says Kreuz. “Consider not booking everything in advance due to unpredictable weather,” he says, adding that staying open-minded may help you to take advantage of potential low-season discounts. 

Tet, which marks the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is another tricky time to visit, as many landmarks and businesses close for a week or more to celebrate. It typically lands in late January or early February — this year, it falls on Feb. 10. 

The best times in the year to visit Vietnam

Feb 22, 2024 • 5 min read

Pick the right time for your visit to Vietnam with this seasonal guide © golero / Getty Images

Vietnam serves up a generous dose of Southeast Asian magic at any time of year, but some seasons are easier for travelers than others.

A lot depends on what you are looking for from your trip – if it's time on the beach on the central coast, you probably want to stick to the drier months from February to June, before the peak summer crowds arrive; if you're here to go trekking in the highlands, October to March is the optimum season.

It's important to be aware that the weather can vary widely as you travel around Vietnam. The country spans 1650km (1025 miles) from north to south, taking in tall mountains in the north and flat, tropical wetlands in the Mekong Delta . In the north, it can be positively chilly in winter; from December to February, the highlands around Sapa can see snow while the Delta basks at 25°C (77°F).

To help you plan a perfect trip, here's our guide on the best times to visit Vietnam.

July and August are the top months for beach lovers

The hot, sticky high season from July to August is the busiest time of year to visit Vietnam, coinciding with favorable beach weather on the central coast. Demand for flights soars, and prices for accommodations can increase by as much as 50% in resort areas such as Danang and Nha Trang . Book flights and hotels well in advance and expect crowds on the sand at all the popular resorts.

The rest of the country is warm and humid, and sunny days are punctuated by spectacular summer monsoon downpours and even the odd typhoon on the coast. This is a poor time of year for visiting the north, as trekking trails turn into quagmires, and Hanoi and Halong Bay are drenched by heavy showers. On the festival calendar, Trung Nguyen (Wandering Souls Day, also known as Vu Lan) in August sees huge spreads of food left out for the spirits.

December to March is the season to visit Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC)

Winter in Vietnam tends to be drier and cooler than the sticky summer, and the weather can be downright chilly in the north, particularly at higher elevations. However, this is the perfect time to explore Vietnam's characterful northern and southern capitals, with manageable temperatures and low humidity taking the sting out of exploring Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) on foot.

If you want to see more of the country, this is also a great time to head out to the Mekong Delta and the island of Phu Quoc , with warm (not scorching) temperatures and clear skies. As April approaches, however, the mercury starts to climb to uncomfortable levels down south.

Another obstacle to easy travel is the Tet festival – officially, Tet Nguyen Dan – marking the Vietnamese lunar New Year, in late January or early February. The whole country is on the move and prices for transport and hotels shoot skywards. 

In December, the biennial Flower Festival brings fragrant blooms, pageants, wine and music to Dalat , while Buon Ma Thuot's annual coffee festival in March attracts lovers of a good brew. Christmas Day – known in Vietnam as Le Giang Sinh – is a big deal for the Catholic community in Ho Chi Minh City.

Visit from April to June and September to November to avoid the crowds

The low season in Vietnam coincides with the transition from the cool, dry winter to the hot, humid summer and vice versa. From April to June and from September to November, the weather is often unsettled but rarely extreme. You may get days of glorious sunshine, but there will also be days of rain, so pack for both dry and wet weather.

These transition periods are good times to avoid crowds at the sights, save money and explore the whole country, as the weather is not notably awful anywhere. The October to November window is particularly favorable for exploring the islands and outcrops around Halong Bay (and its calmer and less commercial neighbor, Bai Tu Long Bay ), with more dry days than wet days and mild temperatures.

There are some good festivals too. Held in Hue in April, May or June, the biennial Hue Festival fills the city's historic citadel with color, music and lights, while the Nha Trang Sea Festival brings a similar party mood to Nha Trang every second June. Vietnamese Buddhists celebrate the life of the Buddha with extravagant street processions in May for Phat Dan – best experienced in Ninh Binh or Ho Chi Minh City. Pyrotechnics enthusiasts of all kinds gather in Danang in June (or sometimes July) for the explosive Danang Fireworks Festival.

In the pre-winter season, aim to be in Hanoi on September 2, as Vietnam National Day brings energetic rallies and fireworks to Ba Dinh Square and boat races to Hoan Kiem Lake . Tasty festival foods appear everywhere for Trung Thu, the Mid-Autumn Festival, in September or October, while dragon boats race on the waterways of the Mekong Delta for the Khmer Ok Om Bok Festival in October or November.

Visiting Vietnam during the typhoon season

Technically, the typhoon season in the Northwest Pacific runs from May to November, but in Vietnam, the biggest risk of storms is from August to September. The country sees four to six typhoons in an average year, marked by heavy rain and strong winds. Occasional severe storms lead to flooding and disruption to transport, particularly by air and sea.

The areas most affected by typhoons are the southern coast and the far north coast (including Halong Bay). The weather tends to be most severe near the shore – inland, you may just get heavy rain and the odd power cut. This is a time to be cautious but not paranoid – monitor weather reports and prioritize land-based activities over boat trips, beaches, and diving.

This article was first published June 2021 and updated February 2024

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Best (and Worst) Time to Visit Vietnam 2024

Vietnam experiences two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. Generally, the best time to visit most of Vietnam is from November through April, when temperatures are mild and rainfall is relatively low.

Vietnam doesn't seem very big, but it's very diverse, and the weather varies a lot from north to south. Planning the best time to go to Vietnam can be tricky. We would like to give you some insider suggestions and tips, and help you to find the right place to explore at any time of year.

• Best Times to Visit Vietnam
• Worst Times to Visit Vietnam
• Travel Guide By Month

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Best Times to Visit Vietnam for Great Weather, Low Prices

As mentioned above, November to April is the best period to visit Vietnam . However, this can depend on which part of the country you plan to visit, what activities you want to do, budget, and weather preferences.

1) Best Time to Visit for Great Weather

Northern Vietnam , including Hanoi and Halong Bay, has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. The best time to visit this region is from October to April when the weather is cooler and drier. The summer months from May to September can be hot and humid, with occasional typhoons and heavy rain.

Central Vietnam , including Hue, Hoi An, and Danang, has a tropical climate with two seasons: a dry season from January to August and a rainy season from September to December. The best time to visit this region is from February to June when the weather is dry and mild.

If you and your children are planning to visit during the summer holidays ( between June and August), you could enjoy sunny and blue skies but expect high temperatures around 35°C (95°F) and crowds. Our 2-Week Vietnam Family-with-Teenagers Holiday is specially designed for a family summer vacation.

In Southern Vietnam , including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the rainy season runs from May to October and the dry season runs from November to April. The best time to visit this region is from November to April when the weather is dry and pleasant.

2) Best Times to Visit for Low Prices

Vietnam is a very affordable destination throughout the year, though travelers typically find the steepest discounts on accommodations, flights, and tours during the rainy season (May to October in north and south Vietnam, September to December in central Vietnam).

Cultural and historical cities, like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, are less affected by the weather. And they have plenty of indoor activities, such as cooking classes and making lanterns. Thus, if you are flexible and prepared, the low season promises smaller crowds, big savings, and still plenty of things that can be enjoyed.

3) An Insider's Guide to the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

In our experience, if your travel time is flexible, the ideal times to travel are the period just before the peak season and the period just after the peak season (the periods of early May and late October) . At this time, the weather is still fine, crowds die down, and hotels are cheaper.

Check out more tips on planning your trip to Vietnam or contact our specialist , who would tailor-make an itinerary for you based on your requirements including available travel times.

The Worst Times to Travel to Vietnam (Monsoon and Typhoon Seasons)

If you don't like rain, you should consider avoiding the rainy season.

The truth is that even in the peak of the rainy season, the rainfall is not persistent , mainly coming in short downpours of one or two hours. You can still enjoy most of a day without much inconvenience.

One thing that needs to be noted is the disruptive typhoon season in north and central Vietnam . Your Halong Bay cruise can be canceled or delayed if you travel between July and August, when the bay is at risk of typhoons and storms. Your trip in coastal places of central Vietnam, such as Hoi An, may have to be interrupted due to typhoon flooding, usually occurring between September to October.

Although the rainy season has its drawbacks, it also means lower crowding and better prices . With a well-planned and flexible schedule, you can still enjoy a great trip.

Our flexible private tours are guaranteed to make your trip smoother and easier. You would get timely support and expert contingency plans, if the weather causes delays/cancellations or itinerary changes. 

Contact us to start your worry-free Vietnam trip.

Vietnam Travel Guide by Month

Vietnam weather in january.

• Northern Vietnam: cool and dry, 15–20°C (59–68°F)
• Central Vietnam: mild and damp, 22–27°C (72–81°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm and dry, 26–32°C (79–90°F)

January is generally a cool/mild and dry/damp month in the northern and central regions of Vietnam. However, it can be quite cold in the mountainous far north in places such as Sapa, with temperatures dropping below 10°C (50°F). The southern region tends to be warmer and dry.

January is a great time to visit most parts of Vietnam. However, if you're hoping to visit the beaches, keep in mind that the weather may be a bit cool for swimming or sunbathing.

Vietnam's Lunar New Year, known as Tet, sometimes falls in late January, and it can be an exciting time to visit Vietnam to experience the festive atmosphere and traditions. But get ready for more crowds and higher prices.

Learn more about Vietnam in January and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in February

• Northern Vietnam: mild and dry, 14°C to 22°C (57°F to 72°F)
• Central Vietnam: mild and dry, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm and very dry, 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F)

February is a good time to visit Vietnam, with pleasant weather and little rainfall. The north can still be cool, while the south really starts to warm up.

February is considered part of the high season for tourism in Vietnam, but it's not as busy as December and January. However, it's important to note that the Lunar New Year (Tet) usually falls in February, and many Vietnamese people travel during this time, so transportation and accommodations may be more crowded and expensive. Book hotels as early as possible.

Learn more about Vietnam in February and the best places to visit .

• Vietnam Weather in March
• Northern Vietnam: warm and dry, 15–25°C (59–77°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm and dry, 20–30°C (68–86°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot and very dry, 23–34°C (73–93°F)

As winter comes to an end, the weather in Vietnam becomes warm in March. The north and central regions can still be cool in the evenings and mornings, while the south tends to be hot and rainless.

March is a good month for outdoor activities like exploring the countryside around Hanoi and Hoi An. It's also a good time to visit the beaches in central Vietnam, as the sea is usually calm and the weather is warm.

Learn more about Vietnam in March and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in April

• Northern Vietnam: warm, moderately rainy, 19°C to 28°C (66°F to 82°F)
• Central Vietnam: sunny and hot, 22°C to 33°C (72°F to 91°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, low rainfall, 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F)

April is generally a good time to visit Vietnam as it's mostly dry and warm, with temperatures ranging from around 20–30°C (68–86°F) in most regions. However, it can be hot and humid in the south, and sudden showers may come and go quickly.

It is a great time to explore Vietnam's natural beauty, such as cruising on Halong Bay, enjoying the beaches in central Vietnam, or visiting the Mekong Delta in the south.

Learn more about Vietnam in April and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in May

• Northern Vietnam: warm, medium rainfall, 25–30°C (77–86°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, light showers, 28–32°C (82–90°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, high rainfall, 30–35°C (86–95°F)

May is the beginning of the hot season in Vietnam, particularly in the central and southern regions. Temperatures can reach up to 40°C in some areas.

A private tour with a flexible travel pace is essential to avoid the burning sunshine and have an enjoyable trip. You can choose to start your days earlier in the morning, have a siesta, and go out later in the afternoon, or plan some indoor activities such as cooking class.

The bright side of this month is that you can expect fewer crowds and lower prices.

Learn more about Vietnam in May and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in June

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 26–33°C (79–91°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, light showers, 26–35°C (79–95°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot and wet, 25–32°C (77–90°F)

June is one of the hottest months of the year in Vietnam. It is also the start of the rainy season in the north and south, with regular thunderstorms and heavy rain.

June can be a challenging time to visit Vietnam due to the hot and humid weather, especially in the south. However, if you're comfortable with the heat and enjoy outdoor activities, it can still be a good time to visit central Vietnam and enjoy the beaches. Just be prepared for heavy rain showers in some regions, and make sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

Learn more about Vietnam in June and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in July

• Central Vietnam: hot, humid, 25–34°C (77–93°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 24–32°C (75–90°F)

July is a hot and humid month in most parts of Vietnam, with regular rain showers due to the summer monsoon season.

However, you should see more pleasant weather in central Vietnam (Danang, Hoi An, and Nha Trang), where sunny days and blue skies are perfect for a beach vacation. Expect accommodation prices to rise and crowds to thicken due to Vietnamese students' summer holiday. Book your hotels several months in advance.

If you travel to northern Vietnam and southern Vietnam, you're suggested to take rain gear, choose more indoor activities, and always have a "tour plan B" for each day.

Learn more about Vietnam in July and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in August

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 26–32°C (79–90°F)
• Central Vietnam: hot, medium rainfall, 25–34°C (77–93°F)
• Southern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 23–32°C (73–90°F)

August is a hot and rainy month in north and south Vietnam. August experiences storms or heavy rains, which might affect your trip in Halong Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and the Mekong Delta. The good news is that the rains come and go quickly.

The central region of Vietnam including Hue, Danang, and Hoi An is the best choice, due to its sunnier weather. Be prepared for crowded beaches as domestic travel is at a peak because of summer vacations. Contact us for an early booking!

Learn more about Vietnam in August and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in September

• Northern Vietnam: hot, heavy showers, 25–32°C (77–90°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, very high rainfall, 24–32°C (75–90°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, very high rainfall, 23–32°C (73–90°F)

September is a transitional month in Vietnam, with the weather starting to shift from the rainy season to the dry season or vice versa.

North Vietnam edges towards the end of its summer, although you can still expect plenty of hot weather as well as some rain. Central Vietnam enters its extremely torrential rainy season, with a high chance of storms or typhoons. Southern Vietnam also experiences hot temperature and frequent rain.

The best places to go are in Northern Vietnam including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa.

Learn more about Vietnam in September and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in October

• Northern Vietnam: warm, medium rainfall, 22–29°C (66–84°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, torrential storms, 23–29°C (73–84°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, high rainfall, 23–31°C (73–88°F)

October is one of the best months to visit North and South Vietnam, with moderate temperatures in between the showers. The north is warm, while the south is still hot sometimes.

However, October is the worst time for a vacation in central Vietnam, which faces a high risk of typhoons and violent storms, leading to flooding in lowland cities.

Learn more about Vietnam in October and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in November

• Northern Vietnam: warm, light rain, 19–26°C (66–79°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, torrential rain, 21–27°C (70–80°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm, medium rain, 22–31°C (72–88°F)

November is the start of the dry winter season in the north, with cooler temperatures and less humidity/rainfall, which brings large numbers of travelers flocking to Hanoi and Halong Bay.

Meanwhile, the central region is still in the peak of its soaked and stormy typhoon season. If you are travelling in this region (Hue, Danang, Hoi An) in November, keep your itinerary flexible in case of flight delays or cancellations.

The south begins its dry season, with medium-to-low rainfall and sunny skies more likely than not. This month is a great time to visit HCMC, the Mekong Delta, and offshore islands such as Phú Quốc.

Learn more about Vietnam in November and the best places to visit .

Vietnam Weather in December

• Northern Vietnam: becomes mild and dry, 15–22°C (59–72°F)
• Central Vietnam: warm, high rainfall, 20–25°C (68–77°F)
• Southern Vietnam: warm/hot, low rainfall, 21–32°C (70–90°F)

It's all good news in the north and south with some of the best conditions of the year, moderate temperature, and blue skies. Hanoi and the north experience excellent dry and clear days, however it can be cold, especially in the evenings. The southern islands of Phu Quoc can be a top pick for your beach vacation.

In central regions of Vietnam, the rains start to decrease, but stormy weather is still a strong possibility, especially early in December.

The Christmas and New Year holidays bring Vietnam into another high season for travel. Make sure you book a late December tour at least 3 months in advance.

Learn more about Vietnam in December and the best places to visit .

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Best time to visit Vietnam & weather

The weather and the best time to visit Vietnam vary enormously between the north and the south. Depending on where you want to spend most of your time, make sure you are prepared for the weather.

What is the best time to visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam is from December to April. The temperature is pleasant and there is almost no rain. But the best time to visit Vietnam also depends on where in Vietnam. In the north it can get quite cold in December and January. Therefore, view the weather by month for each region. March is the best month to travel throughout Vietnam.

High season (June-July)

High season for traveling to Vietnam is usually in June and July. Although this is a peak season for the Dutch due to school holidays, the Vietnamese school holidays are also overlapping at the moment. Prepare for busy airports and full flights, especially if you plan to explore more of Southeast Asia while you are there. If you want to travel cheaply, this period, as well as during Tet (early February), may not be the best time to visit Vietnam. You will find that many hotels and flights are fully booked if you look for it at the last minute. With many people on the move, it’s best to plan in advance to get some good deals on flights and accommodation.

Low season (September-October)

This is the cheapest time to fly to Vietnam. Not only can you save a lot on airline tickets, but you also have less crowds during your holiday!

Rain season (monsoon season)

As with most destinations, you can still enjoy Vietnam during the monsoon season (April to October), but there are some reservations. You meet fewer travelers and many more mosquitoes during the rainy season. Negotiating better prices for accommodation becomes easier, and tours can be cheaper, but outdoor activities become soaked experiences. Transport delays happen. Buses may not run during long periods of heavy rainfall, because sometimes roads get flooded and become more dangerous to drive.

Typhoon season

Although nature does not always play by the rules, hurricane season (typhoon season) usually ends every December around December. The start dates depend on which part of Vietnam: north, central or south. In general from August to November and October is generally the most stormy month.

When are the rice fields the most beautiful?

If you have ever dreamed of seeing the beautiful golden rice fields, be on time, the harvest season only lasts 1 month! Vietnam has beautiful rice fields in different locations in the countryside from north to south.

Terraced fields in the mountainous provinces in the north of Vietnam are the best at the end of September and October , when the harvest season starts and then show beautiful colors.

Best time to visit Vietnam per region

North vietnam.

North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Mai Chau & Ninh Binh) has a clear winter and summer season. The cool but mostly dry winter lasts from November to April, at an average temperature of 17-22 ° C with the coldest months of January – March. The summer lasts from May to October when it is hot and humid and the region has the most rainfall. July to September are often the wettest months of the year.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue) has warm and dry weather from mid-January to the end of August, with temperatures often reaching mid-30 degrees. During the winter months, rainfall increases with the peak levels in October and November, sometimes in the form of typhoons.

South Vietnam

With temperatures remaining constant throughout the year, the climate in the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Mui Ne, Phu Quoc) is split into two simple seasons, wet and dry. The dry season starts in November and ends in April / beginning of May, with a little warmer and more humid at the end of February to May. The wet season lasts from May to early November, with the months of June, July and August receiving the most rainfall of the year.

Weather by month

View the weather each month to see what you can expect when you are in Vietnam. Keep in mind that the explanation below is an estimate of what you can expect in Vietnam, because in practice it happens that, for example, the rainy season starts later or earlier and continues longer or shorter. You can also read more about the holidays and events per month in Vietnam.

During this time of the year, dry and pleasant weather can be enjoyed in most of the country, with the only exception being the northern regions. Temperatures can drop dramatically in these areas, especially in the mornings and late evenings it feels much cooler. This is especially the case for Sapa and Ha Giang. For the best beach weather you have to go to Phu Quoc with guaranteed sunshine. It is good to know that the Halong Bay can be quite blurry at this time of year and you may not get the best views.

The cold mornings begin to disappear in the north and hot dry weather is expected in most of the country. North Vietnam remains an exception and feels colder. Good to know is that while traveling in February during TET (Vietnamese New Year) the majority of shops, museums and restaurants are closed for about a week.

This is high season for travel to Vietnam and the best time to visit. Beachgoers now have a better choice of destinations, with Mui Ne, Con Dao and Nha Trang all getting good weather. Hoi An is also a great beach destination by the end of the month. This is the perfect time to visit Halong Bay, which should have a clear blue sky without haze.

Like March, April is the best time to visit to travel to the country and you will see more crowds, with fantastic weather everywhere.

It is getting hot and May offers a wonderful opportunity to miss the April high season prices. Rain has yet to come, but by the end of the month you can expect a rain shower in the northern and southern regions.

You may get occasional rain in the north and south of the country, but Hanoi, Mai Chau and Halong probably have a clear blue sky most of the time. The best place to be is in Central Vietnam, where the sun is still shining. Very little rain is expected in Lang Co, and Hoi An serves as a beautiful beach destination. Grab your chance in the off season before the school holidays start next month.

Central Vietnam is the best place to be, with hours of sunshine and little rain. The rest of Vietnam is likely to experience some showers, but not enough to influence your pleasure.

Central Vietnam is the best place to visit at this time of the year, although the rest of the country is still worth a visit, if you don’t mind having occasional rain. Although flights can be more expensive, hotels offer great promotions during the Vietnamese low season.

Catch the last sun on the central coast of Vietnam before the rain occurs more often at the end of the month. The north and south are usually very wet at this time of the year, but hotels are cheap.

The sun is returning to the north of the country and this is a great time to go to Sapa or leave the beaten track in Ha Giang. Although this is not the best time for a beach vacation, Vietnam has so much more to offer and traveling in October means you skip the crowds.

The high season begins again and many people head to Vietnam for the colder winter months in the north. By the end of the month, the entire country is generally hot and dry, with the exception of the central region, which can have some showers.

There is still a chance of rain in the central part of the country; however, the rest of Vietnam will be hot and dry. The beach season starts again on Phu Quoc. It is advisable to book early for the Christmas period, because there is not much available.

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The Best Time to Visit Vietnam

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The Weather in Vietnam

• Monsoon Season
• Typhoon Season
• Key Events & Festivals
• Frequently Asked Questions

Deciding the best time to visit Vietnam greatly depends upon how far north or south that you begin, as well as other factors such as festivals and holidays. In general, the best time to visit Vietnam is from December through February when temperatures are milder and rain is minimal.

Vietnam's long, narrow shape means that the three primary regions (north, central, and south) experience different types of seasons and weather events throughout the year. Choosing when to go to Vietnam is important, both for personal comfort and packing purposes. The south generally receives more rain and enjoys a tropical climate, however, Hanoi and points farther north have cooler winters than many travelers expect. The area is one of the few places in Southeast Asia you can really feel cold without going to higher elevations.

Vietnam can be enjoyed at any time throughout the year, however, weather plays a big factor—particularly if you plan to enjoy trekking and outdoor activities. There are two tropical monsoons that affect the country's climate, dividing the year into a wet season and a dry season.

The wet season is due to the southwest monsoon (May to September), which brings torrential rains and high temps. Sometimes monsoon rains can become so heavy in urban areas that streets flood and transportation shuts down completely!

Meanwhile, the northeast monsoon creates the cool, dry season (November to March). Although Vietnam still receives a little rain this time of year, the driest months for visiting the south of Vietnam ( Ho Chi Minh City ) are typically between December and April. Temperatures and humidity levels in March and April can be suffocating before monsoon rains begin to cool things off in the summer months.

The spring and autumn months are most pleasant for visiting the north of Vietnam ( Hanoi ). Winter nights can get relatively chilly, with temperatures dipping into the 50s. Much colder has been recorded. You'll certainly need a jacket when visiting Halong Bay in the winter, particularly if you're already accustomed to warmer temperatures in the south or other countries around Southeast Asia .

Visiting Vietnam During Monsoon Season

As with most destinations, Vietnam can still be enjoyed during the monsoon season , but there are some caveats.

You'll meet far fewer travelers and a lot more mosquitoes during the rainy season. Negotiating better prices for accommodation becomes easier, and tours may be cheaper, but outdoor activities such as exploring the Citadel at Hue become soggy experiences.

Transportation delays happen. Buses may not run during long periods of heavy rain—perhaps a good thing as roads become flooded and more dangerous to drive. Even the low-lying tracks along the north-south railway become flooded, causing delays in train service.

If your plan is to travel between Hanoi and Saigon , have a flexible itinerary in case the weather causes delays. You may be better off flying into the part of Vietnam you wish to visit rather than trying to travel long distances overland during monsoon season.

Visiting Vietnam During Typhoon Season

Regardless of the season, large weather events such as tropical depressions and typhoons blowing in from the east can create week-long downpours that disrupt trip plans. Sometimes they can devastate areas that are prone to flooding.

Although Mother Nature doesn't always play by the rules, typhoon season typically ends around December each year. The start dates depend upon which part of Vietnam (north, central, or south), but August is a general starting point. October tends to be a stormy month overall.

The good news is that typhoons don't normally sneak up on a country unexpectedly. Keep an eye on weather events as your trip approaches. If a typhoon is moving into the area, flights may be diverted or delayed anyway.

Key Events and Festivals in Vietnam

The largest national holiday in Vietnam is the Lunar New Year celebration known as Tet.

During Tet, transportation and accommodations go up in price or become booked solid as people move around the country to celebrate or visit family. An influx of Chinese tourists traveling for Chinese New Year hit popular beach areas such as Nha Trang. Although Tet is an extremely interesting and exciting time to be in Vietnam, your travel plans will certainly be affected, so book ahead and arrive early.

Tet follows a lunisolar calendar—after all, it is Lunar New Year—so dates vary from year to year, usually coinciding with Chinese New Year. It's one of the largest winter festivals in Asia and occurs between January and February.

Other big national holidays include May 1 (International Worker's Day) and September 2 (National Day). Reunification Day on April 30 celebrates the reunification of North Vietnam and South Vietnam at the end of the Vietnam War. Local families may be traveling during these times. The Mid-Autumn Festival ( Chinese Moon Festival ) is observed in September or October (based on the lunisolar calendar).

March and April in Vietnam are quite hot, with temperatures averaging around 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Typically, rain begins in full force by late April, and by May, the heat and humidity are intense. The upside: Fewer crowds.

Events to check out:

• Thay Pagoda Festival honors Tu Dao Hanh, a Buddhist monk who invented Vietnamese water puppetry. Taking place during the third month of the Chinese lunar calendar, the event is celebrated with water puppetry festivals about 18 miles southwest of Hanoi.
• International Labor Day is held on May 1. Celebrations and parades are held in central squares throughout the country.
• Saigon Liberation Day is celebrated nationwide on April 30.

Summertime weather can vary depending on where you are in the country. The south is quite warm, with highs climbing above 90 degrees Fahrenheit regularly, and is often victim to frequent heavy showers. If you're in the northern part of the country, you'll want to bring plenty of insect repellant—mosquitoes are at their peak, thanks to frequent heavy rainfall. Plan to pack sandals and a travel umbrella that can withstand strong winds.

• National Day celebrates the rise of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam on September 2 each year.

Rains continue through September and October, with the latter being the wettest month in Ho Chi Minh City (the city sees an average rainfall of 7.5 inches every October). Keep in mind that typhoons can cause rough seas; unsuspecting tourists should be aware that central regions of Vietnam are subject to hurricanes during the fall months.

• During mid-September, Haiphong hosts the Do Son Buffalo Fighting Festival.
• The Mid-Autumn Festival (Tet Trung Thu), also held in mid-September (on the half-moon of the eighth lunar month, to be exact), is popular with kids and includes dance, sweets, and toys for purchase.

At last, come December, the country dries out. Winter marks the best time for seaside vacations in Vietnam, but the northern part of the country can be quite cool and gloomy. Expect temperatures of around 50 degrees Fahrenheit and occasional drizzle.

• Vietnam's Traditional Lunar New Year Festival ( Tet Nguyen Dan ) is celebrated countrywide. During this four-day event, you can expect lion dances, feasts featuring sticky rice and mung bean cake, and fireworks.
• Celebrated during the first lunar month of the Chinese lunar calendar, the Lim Festival commemorates Ba Mu, a Buddhist nun at Lim Pagoda. Every year, visitors travel to Bac Ninh province to listen to traditional Quan Ho folk songs and watch weaving competitions.

December to February is the best time to visit Vietnam for mild temperatures and minimal rain, especially if you're visiting the south. However, northern cities like Hanoi can get surprisingly cold in the winter, so plan for spring if you want more heat.

The monsoon season in Vietnam lasts from April to October, so be prepared for humidity and rainy days. The peak of the rainy season lasts from June to August, so avoid these months if you want to enjoy outdoor activities.

Apart from the rainy summer months, Lunar New Year—known as Tet—is one of the busiest times around the country. It's an exciting time to be in Vietnam, but plane tickets and hotel rooms shoot up in price and making reservations will be extra difficult.

March through May is heat season in the south of Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City), with temps reaching as high as 95 degrees Fahrenheit in April. In the north (Hanoi), June and July are the hottest months of the year, seeing average highs in the high-80s.

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Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Home » Blog » Travel Tips » Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & When to Avoid!

Spanning more than 1,000 miles from north to south, the climate and weather of Vietnam can vary drastically depending on when and where you’re traveling. We’re going to walk you through the best times to visit Vietnam, and which times of year to avoid (if possible!).

Planning a trip to Vietnam can be downright overwhelming. There are just so many places to visit (and things to eat!). When you start to factor in the best time of year to visit, it can make your head spin.

We know the feeling. 

Here’s why it can be so complicated: Vietnam is a long and narrow country , spanning 1,025 miles (1,650 km) north to south. That’s roughly the same distance from Vancouver to San Fransisco, and means that  the climate and weather varies drastically from north to south.

If you’re trying to figure out the best time to visit Vietnam, you’ll find it can be a little tricky to find a definitive answer especially if you plan to visit both the north and south of the country.

So this begs the question…

When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

In general, visiting during March – April gives you the best chance at dry weather throughout the country and temperatures won’t be quite as hot as they tend to get during the summer months (which is also peak dry season).  

Of course, if you’ve read any of our other “Best Time to Visit” articles , you probably already know that this answer is a bit more complicated than that. As with most destinations, there are pros and cons to visiting during any season.

The best time to visit northern Vietnam is going to be different than the best time to visit the southern part of the country.

In northern cities like Hanoi and the mountainous area around Sapa, you’ll find the temperatures can get very cool, whereas Saigon (HCMC) and the Mekong Delta in the south tend to pretty much always be hot and can get quite humid.

But don’t worry, we’re going to go over exactly what to expect so you can plan your Vietnam trip based on your personal preferences.

Best time to visit Vietnam guide

• Our experience

Vietnam geography overview

Weather in vietnam, winter in vietnam, spring in vietnam, summer in vietnam, fall in vietnam.

Overall BEST time to visit Vietnam

Want a quick recommendation? Jump down to see our personal advice for the best time to visit Vietnam. Plus, we’ll share what times of year we’d avoid visiting!

• Our Recommendation…

Be sure to download our  complete packing list for Southeast Asia !  It’s packed with good suggestions and  insider tips  to help plan your Mexico vacation. And it’s completely  FREE , so why not!?

Our experience in Vietnam

We visited Vietnam in December – January

When: December – January (2016)

Our experience:

• We traveled from north to south and were surprised by how chilly it was in the north of the country in December . 
• We had a lot of overcast days in Sapa, Hanoi, and Halong Bay.
• The middle of the country (around Hoi An) was sunnier with warmer weather.

Story time…

We spent about 6 weeks in Vietnam during December and January. Honestly, the weather in the north of the country wasn’t ideal — temperatures were cool (we wore light jackets on many days). But hey, we’re from Minnesota where it gets incredibly cold, so the temperatures weren’t what bothered us. 

The main issue was that there were many overcast days, especially in the mountains, so spots like Sapa were shrouded in clouds for much of our stay. We had a lot of flexibility in our travel plans, so we were able to stay a few extra days until we got nice weather. (We lucked out!) And our time in Halong Bay was less of a tropical destination and more of a cloudy (yet incredibly fun!) cruise.

When we got to central and southern Vietnam, however, the weather was beautiful. Clear skies and warmer temperatures, but not too humid. 

Overall, we had a fantastic trip, and since we were able to extend our stay in a few places where we had less than ideal weather, it wasn’t too big of a problem for us. However, if your travel plans have less flexibility, you might want to make sure you’re visiting Vietnam during a time of year where the weather tends to be more ideal. 

Would we recommend visiting Vietnam in December – January? 

Mostly, yes. The weather in the far north wasn’t ideal and Halong Bay wasn’t nearly as “tropical” as we were expecting at that time of the year. However, I’d take cooler weather over hot and humid!

From the middle of the country to the south, the weather was much better during that time of the year.

But don’t think we’re just gonna leave you hanging there!

Whether you’re wondering what time of year is best to plan your trip to Vietnam, or you have your dates set and are wondering what regions will have the best weather, we’ve got you covered. 

We’ve organized Vietnam’s seasons by region, and listed some of the best things to do during each season all over the country. We hope reading through these suggestions will help you decide the best time to visit Vietnam for YOU.

Answer the following questions to get started:

• What region of the country do you plan to visit?
• Do you mind a bit of rain?
• Are you easily bothered by crowds?
• Are you negatively affected by high humidity?  (I certainly am!)
• Do you prefer to spend your time outdoors hiking/trekking?
• Are you planning to hit the beach and soak in the rays?

Thinking about your answers to these questions is going to help you start to determine when to visit Vietnam.

Psst! Planning a trip to Vietnam? You’ll want to check out this rundown of the best Vietnamese street food to try before you get there!

Alright, let’s get technical for a moment… This “S” shaped country occupies the majority of the eastern coast on the Indochina peninsula. The north-to-south distance of Vietnam is about 1,025 miles (1,650 km), with more than 2,000 miles of coastline (including islands). Level land covers no more than 20% of the country. You know what that means… MOUNTAINS!

The country can be divided into 3 regions: the highlands and the Red River Delta in the north, the Giai Truong Son (Central mountains) and coastal lowlands in the central region, and the Mekong River Delta in the south. The central highlands plateau spans from the south to the central part of the country as well.

Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, with high humidity throughout the year.However, because of differences in latitude and the variety of topography, there are actually 3 different major weather systems affecting the country. The climate tends to vary considerably from region to region. 

Below you’ll find a break down of the wet & dry season months in each region:

Northern Vietnam

• November – April:  Dry season; cooler temperatures and sunny skies
• May – October:  Rainy season; hot, humid & high rainfall

Central Vietnam

• January – August:  Dry season; very hot
• September – November:  Rainy season; daily showers

Southern Vietnam

• November – April:  Dry season; sunny skies and very hot
• May – October:  Rainy season; heaviest rainfall between June – August

Seasons in Vietnam

The country of Vietnam spans a very long distance from north to south. As you can imagine, the weather and climate in the north of the county varies significantly from the south.

For example, when it is winter in the northern hemisphere, cities in northern Vietnam like Hanoi and Sapa can get very cold. But during that same time, the southern part of the country will stay rather warm and not feel at all “winter-like”.

December:  Most of Vietnam is dry this month, with exception of central Vietnam, with is just emerging from it’s rainy season. You’ll find comfortable temperatures in Ho Chi Minh and the southern beaches are particularly wonderful this time of year. The mountains in the north can get a bit chilly. 

January:  You’ll find cold winter weather in the far north during January with a misty rain all month, although  Hanoi  has comfortable temperatures. The south is in it’s peak of dry season and the central coast is emerging from it’s rainy season while places like Da Nang and Nha Trang being to see sunny skies once more. 

Best places to visit during winter in Vietnam

• Southern coast/beaches (particularly Mui Ne and Phu Quoc island)
• Ho Chi Minh

Best things to do in Vietnam during wintertime

• Head to the beach in the south
• Water sports
• Scuba diving, particularly around Phu Quoc island

February:  You’ll find the most optimal weather conditionals throughout the country in February. The south & central coasts are warm and dry. Though you may still get a touch of rain between Hoi An and Da Nang. Clear, warm days in the north make for good hiking weather. Let, the Vietnamese (Lunar) New Year and biggest festival of the year usually falls in February. 

March:  Perhaps the best month to see the whole country is during March. The skies over Halong Bay clear up and the central highlands are warm and dry along with the central and south coasts. 

April:  Temperatures are beginning to rise in the north, but spring flowers are in bloom. The central coast will have clear skies and warm days, perfect for beach weather, and the central highlands as well. There is a small chance of rain in southern Vietnam our April.  

May:  The south is moving into monsoon season with daily afternoon downpours, while the north is getting very hot. You may run into some rain in the north, but you’ll still see mostly clear skies. The central coast has the best weather in May with warm temperatures and sunny skies. 

Best places to visit during the spring in Vietnam

• Halong Bay 
• Hoi An , Da Nang, Nha Trang and Hue

Best things to do in Vietnam during springtime

• Hiking/trekking in the north & central highlands
• Celebrate Tet (the Lunar New Year and biggest festival in Vietnam). Most of the country shuts down during this period while Vietnamese take their holidays (and accommodation is hard to come by).
• Take an overnight junk boat cruise on Halong bay
• Visit Phong Nha Caves in Phong Nha-ke Bang National Park
• Hit up the south & central coast beaches

June:  The south is in the middle of wet season and floods are increasingly common. Rain is increasing in the central highlands as well. The north is beginning to get wet and trekking can become challenging, although  Hanoi  and Mai Chau Valley are still mostly dry during June. Central Vietnam still sees pretty decent weather.

July:  Brings with it heavy rain fall in both the north and south of the country. Flooding and washed out roads makes transportation a bit more of a challenge, even in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh. The north and central coast is hot this month. Rain in the central highlands means it’s not a good month for trekking.

August:  August means peak rainfall in the north and central highlands, so it’s definitely not a good time for hiking and trekking in Vietnam. You’ll see lots of rainfall at Halong Bay as well. Central Vietnam is still pretty clear, but that is coming to an end as rainy season is just around the corner. 

Best places to visit during the summer in Vietnam

Best things to do in vietnam during summer.

• Visit central Vietnam beaches such as Lang Co Bay in Hue, Non Nuoc Beach in Da Nang, and Ha My Beach in Hoi An.

September:  Temperatures are still high but rain is clearing up in the north and south of the country. Just in time for central Vietnam to begin it’s rainy season. 

October:  October is the best month for trekking in Vietnam. You’ll see ideal conditions in Sa Pa and the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark in Ha Giang province. Meanwhile, rain is dumping in central Vietnam and beach days are a thing of the past.

November:  The north will have favorable weather conditions this month, while the south is seeing some balmy temperatures.  It is still wet season in central Vietnam, and rip tides can get dangerously strong between Da Nang and Hoi An due to the northeasterly winter monsoon. 

Best places to visit during autumn in Vietnam

• Sa Pa and the Dong Van Karst Plateau Geopark in Ha Giang province
• Mai Chau Valley (especially during harvest season in October)
• The North & South of the country

Best things to do in Vietnam during autumn

• Hiking/trekking in the North
• Hit up beaches in the South
• Visit the floating markets in the Mekong Delta
• Take a junk boat cruise on Halong bay (best time in November)

Best time to visit Vietnam in our opinion…

If you are looking to get the most out of your time in Vietnam and explore more than one region of the country, it’s a good idea to have the seasons in mind when  planning your Vietnam itinerary  and activities you’d like to experience during your trip.

Visiting during the springtime, February – April, will give you the most flexibility in your itinerary in terms of enjoying the best weather all around.

When to avoid visiting Vietnam

• Personal note:  This was the only time that worked for us to visit Halong Bay. We actually rang in the New Year on a private island. While the weather wasn’t tropical like most of the pictures we had seen, we still had a fantastic experience meeting new friends (that we still keep in touch with!), seeing beautiful sights and learning more about Vietnamese culture. But if you think cooler and possibly overcast weather will ruin your time, opt for a different time of year.
• Hoi An:  Avoid visiting in October due to heavy rainfall and possible flooding.
• Da Nang – Hoi An:  Avoid swimming at the beaches in this central region during November as the rip tides can be particularly dangerous this month.
• Hanoi:  Avoid visiting in July as heavy rainfall causes washed out roads and potential flooding.
• If planning to do some  hiking or trekking : avoid visiting Vietnam during August as it will be the peak of rainy season in all the highlands.
• Summer:  Unless sunning yourself on the central coast beaches is the  only  thing on your  Vietnam itinerary , we’d suggest avoiding visiting the country during the summer months of June – August as you’ll have a much harder time with the weather.

What to pack for your trip to Vietnam

We know it can be overwhelming packing for a trip to a new destination. That’s why we spent hours creating this super helpful PDF just for you.

In this free SE Asia packing list PDF download , we’ve provided packing checklists for everything from clothing and toiletries (for both women and men!) to what shoes to pack and extra medicines you may want to have on-hand just in case.

Plus, we’re sharing tons of packing hacks and tips for traveling in SE Asia that you won’t find anywhere else!

Are you planning a trip to Vietnam?

We have TONS of resources on travel in Vietnam and destinations throughout the country. Check out our  Ultimate Vietnam Travel Guide  for all the answers to your most burning questions, or read some of our favorite articles below.

• Perfect 1 Month Itinerary for Vietnam
• Vietnamese Street Food Guide: Delicious Dishes You Must Try
• Fun Things to Do in Hoi An
• Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Hanoi

Save this article on Pinterest for later!

We want to hear from you…

Have you ever been to Vietnam? What time of year did you go and what was your experience there like? Comment below and let us know!

Comments (3) on “ Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & When to Avoid! ”

A very informative article. Information that will shed light on our path in our travels. Thank you for your effort.

Than you so much for all this great advice! I am enjoying your website! I can’t wait to visit Vietnam with my daughter, but once the pandemic ends we will still be limited by school schedules. Would two weeks over Christmas be preferable to 3 weeks over June/July? We want to see as many sights as possible, but don’t require warm weather or beach days. Thanks!

Your writing is great and very useful. It also guides me. I follow your website regularly. Thanks for the suggestions.

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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, tailor-made travel itineraries for vietnam, created by local experts.

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Vietnam is full of surprises, seamlessly mixing both ancient and modern. See rice paddies, traditional villages, markets, temples and pagodas. Discover romantic cities, cruise around mystical Halong Bay, laze on pristine beaches and get out and about in exuberant Ho Chi Minh City.

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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 humid
• Activities: Trekking, sightseeing, cultural visits to temples and historical site
• Avoid: May to September due to hot and humid conditions, heavy rainfall

Central 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

South Vietnam

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

Make sure to visit the rice fields in Sapa © Shutterstock

Not sure about 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 © 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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 during TET ©Shutterstock

The Rough Guides to Vietnam and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for Vietnam

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to Vietnam

• Crime and personal safety tips Vietnam
• Eating and drinking in Vietnam
• Getting around Vietnam: Transportation Tips
• How to get to Vietnam
• Travel Health Vietnam
• Shopping tips for Vietnam
• Sports and Outdoor activities in Vietnam
• Travel Tips Vietnam for planning and on the go
• Vietnam Weather in September
• Vietnam Weather in November
• Vietnam Weather in June
• Vietnam Weather in July
• Vietnam Weather in December
• Vietnam Weather in August
• Vietnam Weather in January
• Vietnam Weather in February
• Vietnam weather in March
• How to get from Hanoi to Halong Bay
• How To Get From Hanoi To Da Nang
• How to get from Hanoi to Sapa
• Vietnam Weather in April
• How to get a Vietnam visa

Find even more inspiration here

• Travel Tips

written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 09.04.2024

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Infographic - Best time to visit Vietnam (Travel Guide & Tips 2022)

Vietnam is blessed with cultural and natural attractions throughout the three regions which means each region and destination has its distinct ideal time for visiting. For first-time visitors to Vietnam , worry no longer! In this travel guide, we’ll show you in detail what to notice in the weather in Vietnam, the best time to visit Vietnam, and when and best places to visit Vietnam month to month in the most visualized and easiest way to follow. Are you ready?

Table of Contents

• 1.1 Here are Vietnam weather highlights
• 1.2 Peak Tourism Season in Vietnam
• 2 Best time to visit Vietnam
• 3.1.1 Vietnam Weather in January
• 3.1.2 Where to travel to Vietnam in January
• 3.2.1 How Vietnam’s weather like in February is like?
• 3.2.2 Where to visit Vietnam in February
• 3.3.1 Weather in Vietnam during March
• 3.3.2 Vietnam destinations for March
• 3.4.1 Vietnam weather in April
• 3.4.2 Best places to visit Vietnam in April
• 3.5.1 Weather in Vietnam during May
• 3.5.2 Where to visit in May
• 3.6.1 Vietnam weather in June 
• 3.6.2 Where to go in Vietnam during June
• 3.7.1 Vietnam weather in July
• 3.7.2 Where to visit Vietnam in July
• 3.8.1 Vietnam Weather in August
• 3.8.2 Where to visit in August
• 3.9.1 Vietnam Weather in September
• 3.9.2 Where to visit in September
• 3.10.1 Vietnam Weather in October
• 3.10.2 Where to visit in October
• 3.11.1 Vietnam Weather in November
• 3.11.2 Where to visit in November
• 3.12.1 Vietnam Weather in December
• 3.12.2 Where to visit in December

Brief Guide on Vietnam Weather Characteristics

Here are vietnam weather highlights.

North Vietnam – North Central Vietnam : four seasons with winter lasting from December – February, temperature dropping, and low humidity. Summer from June to August is hot, rainy, and humid.

Central Vietnam : Tropical wet climate or a tropical monsoon and trade-wind littoral climate. The hot temperature is almost all year round. Drier months last from November to April while in the summer months the region suffers from storms and flooding.

South Vietnam : only dry and wet season while the temperature remains high all year round. The wet season lasts from November to April and the wet season is from May to October.

Peak Tourism Season in Vietnam

For foreign tourists, the peak season of tourism in Vietnam starts around December and goes all the way to the end of March of the next year . These months fall right in the dry season of North Vietnam and Central Vietnam while in South Vietnam, it’s just the perfect time of flooding season in the Mekong Delta when life comes back to the vast plains and wet forests.

Best time to visit Vietnam

Vietnam’s weather month by month (Best places to visit Vietnam in each month)

Vietnam weather in january.

January in Vietnam is one of the best months for tourism activities and also the month with the most diverse weather characteristics throughout the country. January is the first month of the year in the Gregorian calendar but the last month in the Lunar year. This makes the atmosphere in Vietnam generally bustling, festive, and happy. North Vietnam in January is blessed with the prime of winter which brings almost no rain, dry air, and low temperature (avg. 10-15 degrees Celsius). Water activities in Halong Bay, Cat Ba island, and other beaches in north Vietnam are quite impossible because of the cold temperature. In Sapa, there’s a chance that it might snow. Central and South Vietnam in January are warmer than North Vietnam with an average temperature of 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. If you’re seeking some tropical sunlight then we suggest you go south.

Where to travel to Vietnam in January

How Vietnam’s weather like in February is like?

Not much different from January, February has dry, bright weather across the country with temperatures raising southward. This month is also the first month of the lunar new year, so you can you the festive atmosphere of the most important holiday in Vietnam everywhere you go.

North Vietnam still is in wintertime, with clear skies with little rain which bring a certain romantic feeling to the new year since people say if it rains on the first day, the whole year will be lucky. Northern mountainous areas are covered in pastel colors of plum, apricot, and peach blossoms with the backdrop of grey mountains.

The weather in Central and South Vietnam offers a great condition for a beach break with clear, sunny skies and warm seawater. The average temperature is from 25-27 degrees Celsius.

Where to visit Vietnam in February

Like January, you can visit a lot of places in Vietnam during February, especially since February is a season of flowers. As mentioned, this month is lunar new year month, so you should visit major cities to enjoy the culture and cuisine. Come to north Vietnam plateaus to breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the natural landscape of spring blossoms. Drift south if you want to work on your tan and enjoy the water. Da Lat also sees the beautiful sight of cherry blossoms at this time of year. If you have more time, you can also combine your Vietnam Trip with Cambodia. February is one of  the best months to visit Vietnam & Cambodia

Weather in Vietnam during March

March is one of the best months to discover Vietnam with ideal weather suitable for all kinds of activities. In North Vietnam, March is not as cold and dry as January and February while in central and south Vietnam, it’s warm and dry. March is the month that many festivals are held throughout the country, of which the most bustling and important is the Perfume Pagoda festival. People from all parts of the country come here to pray for luck, health, and happiness in the upcoming year.

Many central coast cities in this time turn into beach paradises with warm water, mild weather, and pristine culture. Southern islands are still the places to go for high blue sky and sunny beaches.

Vietnam destinations for March

It’s not at all to choose where to visit in Vietnam in March. It’s the month for almost all destinations both famous attractions and off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Tay Nguyen at this time has white coffee flowers season blooming all over the place and also the most bustling festival in the area – Elephant Racing Festival.

Vietnam weather in April

April marks the end of tourism peak season in Vietnam. It’s the last month of spring, wrapping up the festive season of Lunar New Year as well as the winter in North Vietnam. From this month onward, the average temperature and humidity throughout the country rise. Still, the weather in March is still much milder than the summer months and there’re still many things to do and places to see at this time of year.

Ninh Binh can be visited almost all year round. In North Vietnam, it’s getting warmer with fewer cold days, and slightly rainier but you can expect plenty of dry days to see around. In Central and South Vietnam, it’s not different much from summer with an average temperature of 25-33 degrees Celsius.

April is also a historical month in Vietnam history, marking the reunification of the whole country after the Vietnam-America War.

• Best places to visit Vietnam in April

Hanoi in April turns vibrant red with the flags and flowers everywhere you go. Perfume Pagoda in the suburb of Hanoi is also in the month it’s most beautiful and less crowded since the festival ended.

April is also the month to visit Vietnam’s best beaches and islands like Halong Bay, Co To Island, and Ly Son . In North Vietnam, it’s the time farmers water the rice fields, making a gorgeous sight of nature. 

In central Vietnam, April is ideal to visit Da Nang city with an average temperature of 27-29 degrees Celsius. The beaches have blue water and calm waves. 

Weather in Vietnam during May

May is the month right before summer hits north Vietnam. You can see the season changing in north Vietnam so blatantly and beautifully. The sun shines, nice breezes, and the temperature rise slightly to 30 degrees Celsius. However, you can barely feel the heat in early May. The rain happens more frequently but also ends quickly.

Throughout the country, the summer holiday for students is about to start so you can feel a certain excitement of Vietnamese people. In central and south Vietnam, the rain starts to happen more but not as frequently as in the north. May is a great time to visit the major cities of Vietnam. Like April, May is also a historical month with two important events: Dien Bien Phu Victory on May 7 and Ho Chi Minh’s Birthday on May 19.

Where to visit in May

Vietnam weather in June 

Where to go in Vietnam during June

Halong bay , southern islands, and coastal line cities are the best destinations in Vietnam during June. Con Dao island has not only endless blue beaches but this month, it’s the month of turtles hatching season. Halong Bay is bluer than ever and Da Lat is one of the best places to stay away from the heat and enjoy the cool air.

Coastal cities have not only pristine beaches but also rich local culture. Nha Trang, Da Nang and Hoi An are the best places to go in this month. >>> Best Vietnam tours in June:

Vietnam weather in July

Where to visit Vietnam in July

Vietnam Weather in August

Where to visit in august.

August is a great month to explore the caves in Phong Nha Ke Bang and Halong Bay , relax on the white beaches of Cat Ba island, Nha Trang, stroll the ancient town of Hoi An, and have fun with sand sliding in Mui Ne . However, Mekong Delta isn’t ideal since it’s the rainy season this month while trekking to mountainous areas in North Vietnam can be dangerous. When there’re typhoons, stay away from the coastal beaches of the area where the typhoons hit.

Recommended Vietnam tours in August: Spirit of Vietnam and Cambodia – 17 Days Vietnam Essential Tour – 7 Days Vietnam Travel Line – 14 Days Pin our August check-list for later:

Vietnam Weather in September

As one of the best months to visit Vietnam, September offers diverse weather conditions and natural landscape features across the country. September is also the end of summer with the temperature dropping significantly. In northern Vietnam, there is still rain but not as heavy as rain in June – August. While in central highlands, it rains more frequently. In the south, rain is less and less while Mekong Delta enters its flooding season.

Cat Ba Island and Halong Bay have great conditions to enjoy the water and the scenery. Mountainous areas start their harvesting season: terraced rice fields turning golden.

Where to visit in September

Northwest Vietnam in general and Mu Cang Chai, in particular,  becomes a real cultural paradise with its gorgeous endless terraced rice fields and rich local culture. Bach Ma National Park in Hue should be your off-the-beaten path to explore. Mekong Delta is just so beautiful in the flooding season. September brings a romantic atmosphere to Hanoi.

Phong Nha Ke Bang is closed in its flooding season (September – November) and Hoi An suffers more rains in this month.

Vietnam Weather in October

Autumn officially arrives in North Vietnam when October starts: the skies are blue, cooler breezes, and bountiful treats. Rain is lesser, the air is drier and the temperature drops a little bit further.

The beauty of the northwest in October is in its prime. When you go to a higher altitude, the air gets chillier. In central Vietnam cities like Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang, the rain continues but doesn’t make these cities any less beautiful than themselves in any other month.

In the south, the average temperature is fixed at 24-31 degrees Celsius with much less rain.

Where to visit in October

Vietnam Weather in November

Where to visit in November

Vietnam Weather in December

Where to visit in december.

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The Best Time to Visit Vietnam for Weather, Safety, & Tourism

The best times to visit Vietnam for ideal weather are

November 26th to March 11th

based on average temperature and humidity from NOAA (the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration). Read below for more weather and travel details.

Vietnam Travel Guide

Temperature.

• Perceived Temperature
• Rain and snow
• Humidity and wind
• The busiest and least popular months
• Overall travel experience by time of year

Other Vietnam Travel Info

Weather in vietnam.

Average temperatures in Vietnam vary somewhat. Considering humidity, temperatures feel hot for about half of the year and otherwise nice with a fair chance of precipitation about half of the year. The area is less temperate than some — in the 32nd percentile for pleasant weather — compared to tourist destinations worldwide. Weeks with ideal weather are listed above . If you’re looking for the very warmest time to visit Vietnam, the hottest months are June, July, and then May. See average monthly temperatures below. The warmest time of year is generally early June where highs are regularly around 90.6°F (32.6°C) with temperatures rarely dropping below 78.2°F (25.7°C) at night.

Vietnam Temperatures (Fahrenheit)

Vietnam temperatures (celsius), “feels-like” temperatures.

The way we experience weather isn’t all about temperature. Higher temperatures affect us much more at higher humidity, and colder temperatures feel piercing with high winds. Our perceived temperatures factor in humidity and wind chill to better represent how hot or cold the day feels to a person.

Vietnam Perceived Temperature (F)

Vietnam perceived temperature (c), average vietnam temperatures by month.

Daily highs (averaged for the month) usually give the best indication of the weather. A significantly lower mean and low generally just means it gets colder at night.

Show Fahrenheit

Show celsius, precipitation (rain or snow).

If dry weather is what you’re after, the months with the lowest chance of significant precipitation in Vietnam are February, January, and then March. Note that we define “significant precipitation” as .1 inches or more in this section. The lowest chance of rain or snow occurs around early February. For example, on the week of February 5th there are no days of precipitation on average. By contrast, it’s most likely to rain or snow in late July with an average of 3 days of significant precipitation the week of July 23rd.

Chance of Precipitation

The graph below shows the % chance of rainy and snowy days in Vietnam.

Snow on the Ground

The graph below shows the average snow on the ground in Vietnam (in).

Average Rain and Snow by Month

Show inches, show centimeters, humidity and wind.

Vietnam has some very humid months, and high humidity throughout the year. The least humid month is December (74.1% relative humidity), and the most humid month is September (78.9%).

Wind in Vietnam is usually calm . The windiest month is January, followed by December and February. January’s average wind speed of around 5.3 knots (6.1 MPH or 9.8 KPH) is considered “a light breeze.” Maximum sustained winds (the highest speed for the day lasting more than a few moments) are at their highest in mid June where average top sustained speeds reach 8.8 knots, which is considered a gentle breeze.

Relative Humidity (%)

The graph below shows the average % humidity by month in Vietnam.

The graph below shows wind speed (max and average) in knots.

Average Wind Speeds

Show wind speeds.

All wind speeds are in knots. 1 knot = 1.15 MPH or 1.85 KPH.

Show Relative Humidity by Month

Is it safe to travel to vietnam.

Our best data indicates this area is somewhat safe. As of Dec 04, 2023 there are travel warnings for Vietnam; exercise a high degree of caution. Check this page for any recent changes or regions to avoid: Travel Advice and Advisories . This advisory was last updated on Nov 27, 2023.

The Busiest and Least Crowded Months

The busiest month for tourism in Vietnam is August, followed by July and November. Prices for hotels and flights will be most expensive during these months, though you can save if you purchase well in advance. Tourists are unlikely to visit Vietnam in February. Those willing to visit at these times will likely find it the least expensive month.

Estimated Tourism by Month

Most popular months to visit, overall vietnam travel experience by season, spring (march through may).

Humidity and temperatures combine to make this season feel warm. Highs range from 90.2°F (32.3°C) and 79°F (26.1°C) with warmer temperatures in the later months. Rain is somewhat common with 3 to 7 days of significant precipitation per month. Spring is the second busiest for tourism, which makes it a good time for those looking for things to do.

Summer (June through August)

The middle-year months have very comfortable weather with high temperatures that are quite warm. These months see the most precipitation with 8 to 10 days of precipitation per month. June – August is the busiest season for tourism in Vietnam, so lodging and other accommodations may cost more than usual.

Fall (September through November)

Fall daily highs range from 87.4°F (30.8°C) and 79.3°F (26.3°C), which will feel very nice given the humidity and wind. It rains or snows a significant amount: 7 to 10 days per month. Tourism is the slowest during these months due to the weather, so hotels may be affordably priced.

Winter (December through February)

Weather is perfect this time of year in Vietnam to be enjoyable for warm weather travelers. The average high during this season is between 80.4°F (26.9°C) and 72.7°F (22.6°C). On average, it rains or snows a smalll amount: 2 to 4 times per month. These times of year are fairly slow with tourists.

Best Times to Travel › Vietnam

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These Are the Best Times to Visit Vietnam

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.

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When is the best time to visit Vietnam?

• Mekong Delta
• Month-by-month

The best time to visit Vietnam is between November and April. This is when the country experiences the least amount of rain.

Northern Vietnam

There are two distinct seasons. It’s hot from May to October, but the high humidity leads to significant rainfall.

The weather cools down from November to April and it’s much drier. December and January are the coldest months — temperatures drop as low as 50°F in most areas.

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam’s summer season lasts from January until the end of August. The weather is hot and dry, with temperatures between 70°F and 95°F.

Conditions between September and December are much wetter, although temperatures remain balmy.

Southern Vietnam

Southern Vietnam’s hot and dry season starts in November and finishes at the end of April, with temperatures often reaching 86°F.

Rain falls between May and October, but the weather still remains warm, usually between 77°F and 90°F.

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Month-by-month guide for traveling in Vietnam

Visiting Vietnam in January

Dry and pleasant weather can be enjoyed throughout most of Vietnam at this time of year. River travel is at its peak, with cruises along the Mekong Delta and the Red River. For the best beach weather, we recommend heading to Phu Quoc for guaranteed sunshine, with highs of 86°F.

However, temperatures can drop dramatically in the northern regions in January, with mornings and late evenings feeling much cooler. This is especially the case for Sapa and Ha Giang, with temperatures dropping to a cold 41°F. The air can get quite hazy at this time of year, especially in Halong Bay , so you may not be guaranteed the best views.

Visiting Vietnam in February

The cold mornings begin to disappear in the north and hot dry weather is expected throughout the majority of the country. Northern Vietnam remains an exception and feels much colder. One thing to note when traveling in February is that during TET (Vietnamese New Year) the majority of shops, museums and restaurants are closed for about a week, so this may impact your stay.

Events & Festivals

• The biggest festival of the year is Tet — Lunar New Year. It’s seen as a fresh start, so residents declutter their houses and throw firecrackers (or make other loud noises) to scare away evil spirits. You will see lots of red and yellow in the streets, because these colors are considered good luck. There are lots of free celebrations, with traditional shows and dragon dance performances. The date varies depending on the lunar calendar, but it normally takes place between late January and early February. Travel is busier at this time and many shops, restaurants and museums shut for the holiday.

Visiting Vietnam in March

March is the peak season for traveling to Vietnam. Beachgoers have a better choice of destinations, with Mui Ne, Con Dao and Nha Trang all getting good weather. Hoi An is also a feasible beach destination toward the end of the month, with temperatures rising to 82°F.

March is the best time to visit Halong Bay, which should have clear blue skies without haze, and very little rain.

• Phu Giay Festival takes place at Phu Giay Temple, Nam Dinh province, in the third month of the lunar calendar, which is sometimes March. Participants pay tribute to Lieu Hanh, who is one of the four immortal gods in Vietnamese culture, and take part in traditional activities like folk singing.
• Thay Pagoda Festival commemorates the life of inventor Tu Dao Hanh with a procession and water puppetry performances. It takes place in either March or April each year.

Visiting Vietnam in April

Great weather is expected almost everywhere in April, so you will notice more crowds.

The temperatures in northern Vietnam are in the high seventies by this time, so conditions are still good for those who want to hike around areas like Ha Giang and Sapa , where you can walk through paddy fields and visit the traditional villages of H’mong and Dao.

Beachgoers still have their pick, with the average temperature in central Vietnam around 82°F. In the south, temperatures are slightly higher, but there’s also a greater chance of rain.

• The Hung Festival is a national vacation that marks the birth of the first kings in Vietnam. People congregate at the Hung Temple to make offerings, then celebrate by enjoying traditional performances.

Visiting Vietnam in May

May offers a wonderful opportunity to miss the high season prices of April. It gets hot at this time of year, with temperatures reaching between 82°F and 86°F. Rain should hold off, but you may get the odd shower toward the end of the month in the northern and southern regions, normally in the middle of the afternoon.

Most of the central region stays nice and sunny, although there’s a chance of rainfall in the Central Highlands and Dalat.

• Chua Xu Festival marks the time when the stone statue of Chua Xu is bathed.
• International Labour Day (May 1) is a national holiday and also signifies the start of spring.
• The holy day Phat Dan celebrates the birth, enlightenment and death of Buddha.

Visiting Vietnam in June

June is the perfect time to grab a low-season bargain before the European school vacations begin next month.

The best place to be in June is the central region, where the sun is out in full force. Very little rain is expected, and Hoi An serves as a lovely beach destination.

Temperatures in the north are in the early eighties, with regular rainfall and occasional storms meaning trekking is no longer an option, especially not in the mountains.

It rains daily in the south in June, but not for prolonged periods.

• The summer solstice, known as Tet Doan Ngo, is celebrated in Vietnam.

Visiting Vietnam in July

Central Vietnam is an ideal destination in July, with temperatures of 88°F, hours of sunshine and little rain. The beaches remain pleasant places to spend time on your trip, although the Central Highlands and Dalat are best avoided due to the higher volume of rain.

The rest of Vietnam will experience some showers, especially Hanoi and Halong Bay. But it’s still hot, with average temperatures of 86°F in the north and 84°F in the south.

Visiting Vietnam in August

Central Vietnam is the best place to visit at this time of year, although the rest of the country is still worth visiting providing you don't mind a few showers. Temperatures are reliably warm no matter where you go.

While flights may be more expensive, hotels offer great promotions during Vietnam's low season. And if you go to the Con Dao coastline, you have the chance to see sea turtles hatching and making their way to the ocean.

• Tet Trung Nguyen is the Feast of the Wandering Souls and Hungry Ghosts. It’s viewed as the time to pardon condemned souls, thus releasing them from hell, and everyone is forgiven for their faults. Offerings of food are given to the homeless and animals such as birds are released.

Visiting Vietnam in September

Catch the last of the sun on Vietnam’s central coast before the rains become more frequent toward the end of September. Temperatures start to drop (although they still reach the mid-eighties on average) and storms are far more likely to occur.

The north and south are usually very wet at this time of year, but the hotels are good value and the rains slowly start to ease off before the end of the month.

• Mid-Autumn Festival is on a different date every year, but always on the full moon between September and October. It’s a harvest festival that celebrates gathering, thanksgiving, and praying. Dragon and lion dances are performed, lanterns are lit, and children are gifted with sweets and toys.
• Vietnam National Day takes place on September 2. It’s a national holiday commemorating the Vietnam Declaration of Independence from France in 1945. This patriotic day is celebrated with a parade through the capital of Hanoi.

Visiting Vietnam in October

The sun comes back to the north of the country and this is a great time to trek in Sapa or venture off the beaten track in Ha Giang . While this isn't the best time for a beach vacation, Vietnam has so much else to offer and traveling in October means you beat the crowds.

Visiting Vietnam in November

The high season begins again, with many travelers flocking to Vietnam before the colder winter months in the north. Most of the country will be hot and dry toward the end of November, except the central region, which will experience some heavy showers.

The north remains at a very pleasant 75°F, with a significant reduction in rainfall, while the south begins its summer season again. The drop in humidity means conditions are far more comfortable and the sun shines brightly all day.

• The Ooc Om Boc Festival, a boat racing festival in Soc Trang, can take place in November or December.

Visiting Vietnam in December

There is still a chance of rain in the central part of the country; however, the rest of Vietnam will be hot and dry. Beach season begins again on Phu Quoc . We advise traveling before the Christmas period as availability is few and far between.

Vietnam Climate Guide

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Practical tips for traveling to Vietnam, from social protocols to guidance on money matters, with a link to the latest US State Department travel advice.

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When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam: Month by Month Guide

Vietnam is an incredible country to visit all year round, however due to its size and shape, the weather in Vietnam couldn’t be any more different between the North, Center and South of Vietnam – from the Northern Highlands to the hot, tropical like South. When you decide to go will really depend on the type of trip you want to have and what you want to experience. To help you decide when would be the best time of year to go to Vietnam for you, we’ve outlined below the different seasons you can expect, if there’s an overall best time to go to capture the best of both worlds as well as the weather by month and what kind of activities are possible in each.

Table of contents:

Is there an overall best time to visit Vietnam?

Climate of vietnam.

• When is monsoon season in Vietnam?
• Best time to visit North Vietnam
• Best time to visit Central Vietnam
• Best time to visit South Vietnam
• Vietnam seasons
• Vietnam weather by month

Many say that the best time to visit Vietnam is between November and early April, with the weather in Vietnam and temperatures in both the North and the South being perfect for trekking and adventures. The temperatures are cooler at this time of year, but they’re also very doable if you’re used to alpine or slightly colder conditions, even in the mountains however you are likely to get cloudy days. In central Vietnam, such as Hue and Hoi An the rains have calmed and a second high season is beginning. Whether November to early April is the best time to visit Vietnam really depends on what it is you have in mind for your trip. If you are planning to try and explore as much of the country as possible and want the best weather possible to enjoy, then November to early April is possibly the best time to go to Vietnam. It’s also worth noting that depending on the calendar for the year, Tet, the Vietnamese New Year celebrations happen either at the end of January or into February. If you plan to travel around that time, be sure to book your flights and hotel as soon as possible as many places become booked up very quickly and raise prices. It’s also important to keep in mind that because it’s a country wide, family celebration, many restaurants will close around the week of the celebrations. We’d recommend doing some research to see when Tet falls if this is the time period you’re looking to travel in. However, travelling around Tet can be magical and the best time of year to visit Vietnam if you’re looking for a truly authentic experience!

Many people ask what is the climate of Vietnam, but it can’t be answered simply – due to its size, there isn’t one specific climate in Vietnam, with different areas of the country experiencing highly contrasting weather throughout the year. You can get cold days in the Northern mountains and hotter than hot days in the South, so it’s worth thoroughly considering when to visit Vietnam in terms of the kind of weather you want to experience. However, a trip to Vietnam is about much more than weather alone as there is so much to experience. But with that said, when rainy and monsoon season in Vietnam hits, it can really curtail a lot of adventure based plans, so always plan ahead! It’s entirely individual, and the worst time to visit Vietnam for you might be the best for someone else – that is what is truly wonderful about Vietnam.

When is Monsoon Season in Vietnam?

Monsoon season in Vietnam is between June, July and August in the North and South of Vietnam and between September, October and early November in central areas where rainy season in Vietnam typically eases by late mid to late November.

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Best time to visit North Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa, Ba Bae National Park)

The best time to visit North Vietnam and places such as Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay (Halong Bay’s much quieter neighbor) and Ba Bae National Park is between the months of October to April. Whilst October may still be a little unsettled, and you may still experience some rain, you can expect to see incredible colors in the landscape. You’ll also see an abundance of produce being harvested, such as rice so it’s a great time to be in the countryside. November is also a great month to visit Halong bay and neighboring, much quieter Bai Tu Long Bay as you’re more likely to get clear skies. From December, the temperatures have cooled slightly, so from December on, you will more likely see cloudy days, though there is still the chance of sunshine. October until April is when adventures in the North really come alive – trekking and hiking in the North, the Highlands and around Ba Bae National Park is truly magical. Hanoi one of the best cities in Vietnam to visit at this time of year also, with humidity at a much lower level making exploring the city a much more pleasant experience.

Best time to visit Central Vietnam (Hoi An, Hue, beaches etc)

Between February and May and November to December are great times to visit Central Vietnam. Between February and May, the temperatures are perfect for visiting the coastal areas such as Hoi An and Hue. Whilst they can become extremely hot, they are also doable. November and December are also great times to visit, but we’d advise the latter half of November would be a safer bet, depending on when the storms and rainy season end. At these times of year, you can expect some cloudy days, but mostly sunny with the odd shower. The perfect time to visit central Vietnam is April, however this is a very popular time to visit so prices can creep up very quickly. If you’re planning to visit around this time, we’d recommend booking in as much advance as possible.

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

The south experiences some of the best weather in Vietnam and the best time to visit the South of Vietnam is between December and March. This is when the weather is more settled, not as hot or as humid. This time of year also makes for a much more enjoyable experience checking out Ho Chi Minh City and everything on offer in the south such as Mekong Delta and the Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve is just 40km outside of Ho Chi Minh City.

Vietnam Seasons

High season: july, august.

• Best time for relaxing on the beach in central Vietnam
• Book well in advance, very popular
• The South is hot, and the north has monsoons

Shoulder Season: December, January, February, March, April

• Best overall time to visit Vietnam due to calmed climate which is suitable in most places
• Best time for checking out Hanoi and the North, such as Ba Bae National Park, Cao Bang, Highlands, Sapa
• Best time for adventures, trekking and backpacking
• Drier and colder, but warm and pleasant with less chance of rain
• One of the best seasons in Vietnam for visiting as much of the country as possible
• During Tet, the Vietnamese New Year festival, either in late January or early February depending on the calendar that year, a lot of things can be closed, and prices do get higher in hotels
• Weather is great in April, maybe even one of the best months to visit Vietnam

Low season: May, June and September, October and November

• The start of Monsoon season in the South and rainy season and storms in the North
• If visiting at this time, it’s better to focus on visiting cities and central Vietnam
• October and November are great for checking out the harvest and floating markets along the Mekong Delta
• Checking out Halong Bay in November is great because you’re likely to get clear skies
• Much quieter with less tourists

Vietnam Weather by Month

January in vietnam.

• Mostly dry season across the country
• Cold in the North
• Shops and Restaurants close for Tet

In January, it is generally dry in the North and South of Vietnam, but it’s important to remember that in the South it is still the end of rainy season, so you can expect some inclement weather. If you’re planning to visit the North and visit Halong Bay you can expect it to be colder, but it is none the less a really nice time to visit. It’s about 50/50 in January as to whether you’ll get a cloudy or sunny day for your visit, but it is spectacular at any time and even the cloudier days give the interesting rock sculptures you’ll see a beautiful feel. Hanoi is also a great place to visit in January as the slightly cooler, dryer temperatures make taking in the city and exploring a much nicer activity. You also have Dalat flower festival to look forward to in January too. If you’re looking for a quieter experience in the countryside and in nature, travelling to the far North of Vietnam to around Ba Bae National Park and Cao Bang is a great thing to do at this time of year. At higher elevations, you’re likely to experience colder temperatures, but January is a great time for adventures such as trekking, cycling and backpacking. It’s worth keeping in mind that depending on when Tet (the Vietnamese New Year celebration) falls, January can be a very busy time in the hotels all over Vietnam, with some of them even closing. So if you plan to travel as this time of year, you should look to book in as much advance as you can.

February in Vietnam

• Warmer temperatures in most areas of the country
• Great month for partaking in for adventure sports, hiking, canoeing etc.
• Beach resorts become busier due to increased temperatures

February is a great month for visiting Vietnam as the warmer more stable climate allows you to visit much more of Vietnam. If you’re planning to travel from North to South Vietnam, or vice versa, February is a great month to look at. It’s a great month for outdoors activities across the whole of Vietnam, particularly in the North and in the Highlands where you’ll find the temperatures mild but not too hot or too cold. The coast and central Vietnam are becoming busier at this time too. If Tet (the Vietnamese New Year festival) falls in February, it’s worth noting that hotels can get very busy, and because this is a popular month anyway, can be even busier than if Tet lands in January. It’s worth looking at when Tet falls on the particular year you’re looking to visit and planning accordingly. February can also be the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia on the same trip, due to the warmer temperatures and lack of rain.

March in Vietnam

• South Vietnam becomes much hotter
• Ideal time for hiking and exploring the North and one of the best times to visit Vietnam

March is a very popular time to visit Vietnam due to the warmer and much dryer weather you’re likely to experience. It’s also one of the best months to visit Halong Bay where you’re likely to find exceptionally sunny skies and little to no winds for the ultimate experience. Due to the sunnier skies and warmer temperatures, it’s also a really lovely time to take a trip to the North of Vietnam and visit places like Cao Bang, Angel Eye Mountain and Ban Gioc Waterfall. Depending on the particular year, you can even start to see the beginning of the spring flowers in the countryside and mountains towards the end of March if spring comes early – a truly beautiful sight to see. Nature truly feels like it is coming alive in the North of Vietnam in March, and the farmers you see will be in full action.

April in Vietnam

• Likely to see a profusion of Spring flowers
• Beach destinations are very popular
• Potentially the best month to visit Vietnam

April could very well be the best time to visit Vietnam, especially if you want to visit as many places as possible within the country. Whilst the South of Vietnam is becoming very hot around areas like Ho Chi Minh City, it is still doable. The North of Vietnam is wonderful in April and at this time of year you’re likely to see spring flowers cropping up everywhere in the countryside, which is well worth a visit! It’s also a fantastic time to visit Central Vietnam and the coast in areas like Hue and Hoi An, where temperatures are high, but can make for an amazing time, especially if you want to spend some time relaxing on the beach within your trip.

May in Vietnam

• Very hot temperatures in the South of Vietnam
• Showers to be expected in most locations

In May it is extremely hot in the South of Vietnam with temperatures reaching around 40c at times. Ho Chi Minh City is best avoided at this time due to the humidity and temperatures you’ll experience. If you’re planning to visit in May, its best to organize your trip around Hanoi or the central coast in areas such as Hoi An and Hue. You can still visit the mountains in the North of Vietnam in May, but there is likely to be rain as it’s approaching rainy season, though it can still be doable. However, because the weather is quite changeable in May, it’s possible to get a real deal on your trip with costs being much lower.

June in Vietnam

• Generally at the height of Vietnam’s monsoon season in the South
• Heavy rains and storms to be expected in the North – with adventure, hiking, trekking, and exploring off limits

In June the North of Vietnam experiences heavy rains and storms which can result in paths, roads and trails being flooded or very muddy, so unfortunately things like trekking and hiking are off limits. Whereas in the South of Vietnam, monsoon season has begun and so this isn’t the best time to visit and can lead to extensive flooding especially around the Mekong Delta. In June, you’ll need to focus your trip on central Vietnam in the areas of Hue or Hoi An. Central Vietnam is a much better option and you can often get a good deal as the coast is usually dry. The weather around central Vietnam is actually doable in June, with pleasant temperatures that make exploring much more possible. It can also be the best time to travel to Vietnam if you want to get a good deal on travel, due to the country generally being quieter at this time.

July in Vietnam

• Still at the height of rainy season in Vietnam: Generally wet in the North and South of Vietnam with monsoons continuing
• Good time to visit the central coast of Vietnam

July, in terms of weather in Vietnam is generally the same as June as it’s still at the height of Vietnam’s rainy season. Except you can expect monsoon and heavy rain conditions to potentially worsen in both the North and South of Vietnam. However, the coast and beaches of central Vietnam can be really beautiful to visit in July with temperatures reaching similar to what you’d expect in the Mediterranean at around 30c.

August in Vietnam

• Very rainy in the North of Vietnam and the Highlands
• Central coast is great to visit
• South of Vietnam is very hot with rain

You’ll have a great time in Vietnam if you’re planning to visit the center in August as temperatures are holding well from July with little rain and sunny skies. It’s a great time to visit places like Hoi An. In the North of Vietnam, August isn’t a good month to explore due to the heavy rains and storms which may well have caused significant impassable areas. The South of Vietnam is still very rainy at this time and extremely hot too. Due to flooding that is likely to have been experienced in the South of Vietnam, visiting the Mekong Delta wouldn’t really be possible in August, and visiting Ho Chi Minh City would be unpleasant because of the humidity.

September in Vietnam

• Storms start to come into central Vietnam
• The North of Vietnam is passable from late September
• Possible great time to see fall/autumn foliage if this comes early

Things start to really switch around in September with the weather in Vietnam when central Vietnam becomes stormy and very rainy. However, from mid September, depending on the year, the storms have eased off in the North and trekking, hiking and exploring the Northern mountains and countryside again becomes possible. At the end of September is also a great date to put into the calendar where the major harvest festival takes place in alignment with the full moon. The countryside is spectacular with goods being harvested and a flurry of activity to see. If Autumn/fall comes early that year, the colors to be seen in the countryside are truly beautiful, but this is more likely in October.

October in Vietnam

• Hiking and adventure in the North and South are easily enjoyed again
• Central Vietnam is wet, stormy and sometimes a lot cooler
• Rice harvest

In October, Central Vietnam is not a great place to visit as it is very stormy with heavy rains – if you visit in October, you won’t be able to take advantage of what central Vietnam is famous for (typically its paradise-like beaches and incredible cultural cities). However, October is a fantastic time for visiting the countryside of the North of Vietnam and into the mountains to see the rice harvest as well as the wonderful colors that pop up at this time of year in nature. In the South of Vietnam, there is also a flurry of activity, and it again becomes a great place to visit. If you’re visiting at this time, be sure to head to the Mekong Delta where the famous floating markets are packed full of incredible fresh produce and traditional, artisan offerings.

November in Vietnam

• Central Vietnam is still wet, stormy and colder
• Great time to visit the beaches of South Vietnam
• One of the best times for adventures in the North of Vietnam and one of the best months to visit Vietnam overall
• Clear skies in Halong Bay

November sees the start of the second high season that Vietnam experiences, but it really is at the beginning, so temperatures can be changeable. However, November is, aside from April, the best month to go to Vietnam to visit Halong Bay due to the clear skies. Much like earlier in the year, in April, you’re likely to have the best chance of experiencing Halong Bay in clear visibility. The temperatures in both the North and the South are also hot and dry at this time, with temperatures in the mountains pleasant because of the low humidity. However, it’s best to avoid central Vietnam at this time due to continued stormy conditions.

December in Vietnam

• Temperatures are hot across the country, but cooling to more manageable temperatures
• Christmas makes Vietnam busy, with it being a popular destination for Christmas holidays so prices can go up
• Rain calms down in Central Vietnam

Much like January, December is a great time to visit Vietnam as you have the opportunity to visit many locations in Vietnam from North to South and experience the best of all. There is still a good chance of rain in central Vietnam in December, however through the month, this becomes less and less as January gets closer. Both Northern and Southern Vietnam have great opportunities for adventure trips and treks at this time as the mountains are dry and warm but becoming cooler at night (and sometimes cooler in the day). However, because Christmas falls in December, it is advisable to book early to secure at a reasonable price as it does become busier and more expensive at this time.

As you can see, there really is no best time to visit Vietnam as this depends completely on what you want from your trip. Whilst November – April are some of the best times to visit Vietnam if you’re looking to explore as much of the country as you can. It’s also possible to find great deals at some of the quieter times of year if you’re on a tight budget and want to devote time to one particular area only. We hope this guide makes it easier for you to find the best time to travel to Vietnam for your plans and what you have in mind. For more Vietnam travel guides and information such as the key cities in Vietnam to visit and other resources, check out our Vietnam travel hub .

Discover more about Vietnam: 

6 Key Cities in Vietnam to Visit and Why

14 Unforgettable Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam

• Ho Chi Minh City

• Planning A Trip

Best Time to Visit Vietnam: When to Go & What to Expect

"When is the best time to visit Vietnam" is one of the most common questions that spring up to mind for all trip planners. Finding a time that fits well with your precious holiday, comes with amicable weather and is not packed with other visitors may seem an utopia in this booming age of tourism. Though you may not afford to plan it exactly as advised or find a solution to all your expectation, you can always "make do with" the next best option. Here comes a very convenient truth: anytime can be a good time to visit Vietnam.

• 1. If you want good weather
• 2. If you want to experience festivals
• 3. If you want to offer your family the best holiday
• 4. If you are mostly interested in beach escape
• 5. If you want to avoid the crowd
• 6. If you want great deals

The opposing monsoonal season spreading from the North to the South, the multiple types of terrains and landscapes, the high and low altitudes give the country a little bit of everything: you can get layered with warm clothes at one destination only to find yourself sunbathing under the scorching sun on the next leg of your very same trip. Beautiful as it may sound, the diverse weather patterns across the country also poses a dilemma: you cannot find a month that has perfect weather all throughout. To put it simply, each month and each season in Vietnam will meet some of your expectations, but not all. 

If you want good weather

... take your trip in March-May or October-early December

Vietnam weather between March and May is quite steady and consistent across the whole country, with medium-high temperature and very little rain. It hardly gets above 30°C and only rises significantly towards the end of May. Humidity is higher in the North (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Sapa) and Center (Hue, Danang, Hoi An) than in the South (Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Mekong Delta) but in general more pleasant than the rest of the year. 

The period from October-early December is cooler than the former, with temperature plunging to under 20°C in the Northern part of Vietnam. However the low humidity totally makes up for the fewer hours of sunshine: you will get cool breeze throughout the day, with some cities such as Hanoi being said to be at its best at this time of the year. There may be more rain as you travel south-ward, but the tempt is also higher and rain comes and goes quickly. If you spend the majority of time in the central region of Vietnam, March-May may be a better period as there are significantly fewer chances of downpours.

The balmy weather in these two periods is ideal especially if you want to spend time being outdoors, whether lazing on a Southern beach or ride a dirt bike up North. There are fewer risks for sunstroke, landslide, flooding or typhoon especially from March to May, and consequently lower the chance of trip cancellation.

If you want to experience festivals

... plan your trip for December - March

The period from late December up until March is a continuum of cultural events, both the Western-inspired and the thousand-year-traditions. 

Toward the end of December, major travel destinations will be illuminated with Christmas trees and New Year countdown stages, offering you a glimpse into the modern day cultural values of Vietnamese. Churches and cathedrals normally celebrate the authentic holiday spirits with nativity scenes, prayers and carols. The larger downtown areas, however, are plainly covered with festive moods of Christmas decorations and musics. Youngsters normally seize the week from Christmas to New Year for hanging out with friends, dressed up nicely and celebrating the holiday season rather than joining family reunion (which is saved for Tet holiday).

Vietnamese have 2-3 days off for the New Year holiday, and many urban dwellers spend this short break on nearby beaches or popular travel destinations such as Halong Bay in the North and Dalat in the South. The city may temporarily look empty before the crowd returns in preparation for Tet holiday, which normally takes place from the end of January to mid-February (the actual date changes based on the Lunar calendar).

The most important event in Vietnam, Tet holiday or the Lunar New Year carries great momentum. It is a time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future, to pray for all the best to come, to sit down with the extended family and cherish the reuniting moments. 

The period preceding Tet is totally worth your travel time: you will get to witness this once-in-a-year magnetic chaos. Supermarkets are flooded with red and yellow confectionery,  streets are buzzing with more traffic as local residents shop for Tet and decorative trees sit abundantly on the sidewalk waiting to be picked. City and country areas will totally come alive, which is definitely a catch for visiting Vietnam at this time of the year.

On the actual Tet days, streets will be eerily quiet. Stores are closed, traffic will reduce to almost zero. You will get to see cheerful Vietnamese, young and old, men and women, dressed up in colorful clothes and paying visit to families and relatives, or crowding temples and pagodas hoping for a lucky year to come. Again, this happens only once a year - and regret/inconvenience will be the last thing that comes to your mind even though shops and services are mostly closed.

The period after Tet - from mid Feb till the end of March - is also dominated by cultural festivals. From the North to the South, spring is a special time for Vietnamese since the ancient history: it is a time to stay calm and laid-back, enjoying some travel or joining one of the many festivals such as Lim Festival (Bac Ninh), Perfume Pagoda (Hanoi), Yen Tu festival (Quang Ninh). In short, if you want to experience Vietnam's culture at its best, visit the country in the period leading up to March.

If you want to offer your family the best holiday

... consider March-May or November

It's not exactly in anyone's interest to haul their family around town in the blistering heat of summer (June- August) or under the staggering rain (September- early October) or the jam-packed traffic (December - February).

That leaves us with the two options: March-May or November, when the weather is calmest and the traffic is most acceptable. Spring is in full force from March and your kids will be just happy seeing the tropical flowers in full bloom.

Cool temperature and low domestic tourism volume also mean you get to experience any part of the country you would want: the sea, the mountain, the emerald bay, the rain forest, the highlands, the canals and even the cities. And in case you have enough of the exotic natural scenery, you can always bring your kids to visit a safari or amusement parks, such as VinWonders (Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Nam Hoi An) or Sun World Park (Sapa, Halong Bay, Danang, Cat Ba).

If you are mostly interested in beach escape

... go for January or April-May

If you visit Vietnam in January: pick Southern beaches such as Nha Trang, Vung Tau and Phu Quoc. If you visit Vietnam in April-May: pick Northern and Central beaches such as Cat Ba Island, Thuan An, An Bang, My Khe or Ly Son Island.

The reason to plan your beach visit during these two periods is not just the temperate weather, low rain-fall, clear sky and gentle wind, but also because the beach is largely empty and perfect for your vacation. Vietnam's extensive coastal stretch is something one should not miss, and you can also do it well by scheduling the right time to visit.

Besides indulging yourself in the Pacific ocean water, you may also consider one of the many water-based activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, paragliding or island tours. Vietnam is a beach paradise, and will not disappoint you in the least. 

If you want to avoid the crowd

... leave late December - mid January, June-August weekends off your table

Everyone wants to include at least a few, if not all, of the must-do, must-see, must-eat on their list - and that, inevitably, leads to over-crowding.

If you prefer tranquility over the hustle-bustle, and can actually afford to alter your travel time for it, we recommend you to stay away from the two periods: late Dec to mid-Jan and all summer weekends. 

It is a fact that the Christmas holiday is also the busiest inbound tourist season: hotels are booked, spas are booked, restaurants are booked, attractions are not booked but packed. Everyone seems to take their annual leave at this same moment and flock to the popular destinations. Many feel better when joined by a crowd, but if this is not you, avoid at all cost. This can save you some considerable budget too as peak season surcharges are popular during this time of the year.

Then comes the locals' precious summer holiday: weekends from June to August. Vietnamese hardly travel solo - most find joy in a crowded destination with their extended family. It is not uncommon that a group tour of 20-30 people belongs to the same family. Parents normally wait for their children to finish school before jamming themselves on the beaches. This period without doubt is the peak domestic travel season, and you may find yourself lost in vast ocean of domestic visitors, cheering out loud over alcoholic beverage, or screaming babies running all over the hotel lobby. 

The best case scenario if you only have these months to spare: visit during the weekdays instead. 

If you want great deals

... May and September are your friends

In terms of weather, May and September are quite pleasant to begin with. The heat wave has either not yet arrived, or already gone by these two months, and so are local holiday makers. Most tourist facilities lower their price during these two months to attract more visits and balance out their annual revenue sheet, which means you can save as much as 30% compared with peak tourist season.

What's more, you can find yourself at a deserted beach, an empty mountain trail, an exclusive swimming pool just for yourself. Golden sunshine is on from 7am to 7pm but without the severe intensity like the months in between. Weather- and money-wise, there is no better time to visit Vietnam than May and September.  

You can find further information about temperature, humidity, rainy days and precipitation level with our monthly weather guide .

Latest Travel Alerts & Updates for Vietnam

Can I travel to Vietnam right now? What are the requirement? When can I expect to be allowed to travel to Vietnam? Find answers to these questions with our frequently updated travel alerts.

What $1 Can Buy in Vietnam

Although the cost of living has risen tremendously in Vietnam in recent years, you can still to live by with few dollars per day in your pocket. Below is a quick summary of what a dollar can be worth in various cities in Vietnam.

All-in-one Guide to Travel Insurance For Your Vietnam Trip

In many countries, purchasing and showing proof of a purchase for a travel insurance is a must as you apply for your travel documents. As you get a visa for Vietnam, you are not required to present one. But do you need one? YES, you will greatly benefit from well-picked travel insurance.

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Vietnam Weather and Climate: A Guide to the Best Time to Visit

Vietnam is a country of diverse weather patterns and climate zones, making it a challenging destination to plan a visit for. With a long coastline, towering mountains, and sprawling rice fields, the country experiences a range of weather conditions that can greatly impact a traveler's experience. From the sweltering heat of the Mekong Delta to the chilly mountain air of Sapa, understanding Vietnam's weather is crucial to planning a successful trip.

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on what you want to see and do. If you're looking to escape the heat and avoid the crowds, the cool and dry winter months of December to February are a great option. This is the peak tourist season and a good time to visit popular destinations like Hanoi, Hoi An, and Ha Long Bay. However, if you're looking to experience Vietnam's famous beaches, the best time to visit is from April to August, when the weather is hot and sunny.

Vietnam also offers a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year. From the vibrant Tet New Year celebrations in January and February, to the colorful lantern festival in Hoi An in August, these events can add an extra layer of excitement to your trip. It is advisable to plan your trip around these events if you want to experience the culture and traditions of Vietnam.

In addition to considering the weather, it's important to consider the crowds and tourist density when planning a trip to Vietnam. Popular destinations like Ha Long Bay and Hoi An can get extremely busy during peak tourist season, so it's best to plan your visit during the shoulder season, when the crowds are smaller.

This article will provide an overview of Vietnam's weather patterns, the best time to visit based on your interests, and tips on how to navigate the crowds and make the most of your trip. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a cultural and historical adventure, understanding Vietnam's weather and peak seasons will help you plan the perfect trip.

Vietnam Weather and Climate Zones

Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia and has a tropical monsoon climate. The country experiences two main seasons: the rainy season, which runs from May to October, and the dry season, which runs from November to April. During the rainy season, most of the country experiences heavy rainfall, while the dry season is characterized by sunny and dry weather. The northern part of the country, which includes cities such as Hanoi and Sapa, has a more pronounced winter season, with lower temperatures and occasional frost.

Vietnam can be divided into three main climate zones: the north, the center, and the south. The north has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, the center has a tropical monsoon climate, and the south has a tropical climate. The northern region, which includes cities such as Hanoi and Sapa, experiences cold winters and hot summers. The central region, which includes cities such as Hue and Danang, experiences a rainy season and a dry season. The southern region, which includes cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang, experiences high temperatures and humidity all year round.

The best time to visit Vietnam depends on the traveler's preferences and the specific destinations they plan to visit. During the dry season (November to April), the weather is generally sunny and dry, making it a great time to visit popular tourist destinations such as Ha Long Bay and Hoi An. However, this is also the peak tourist season and accommodation and transportation prices may be higher. During the rainy season (May to October), the country is lush and green, and it can be an ideal time for adventure activities such as trekking and kayaking. However, heavy rainfall can make it difficult to enjoy certain activities and destinations, and some areas may be flooded.

Seasons in Vietnam

Diverse weather and climate can be found in Vietnam, varying according to the region and time of the year. The northern part of Vietnam has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn, and winter.

Spring (February to April) is a pleasant time with warm temperatures, blue skies, and many festivals.

Summer (May to August) is hot and humid, with frequent rains and thunderstorms.

Autumn (September to November) is cool and dry, with golden rice fields and clear skies.

Winter (December to January) is cold and foggy, with occasional snow in the mountains.

The central and southern parts of Vietnam have only two seasons: dry and rainy. The dry season (November to April) is sunny and mild, with calm seas and beautiful beaches. The rainy season (May to October) is wet and stormy, with heavy downpours and floods.

The weather and climate of Vietnam affect the travel plans of tourists who want to explore this beautiful country. Depending on their preferences and interests, they can choose the best time and place to visit Vietnam.

For example, spring is a good time to enjoy the cultural events and natural scenery of northern Vietnam, while summer is a good time to relax on the beaches and islands of central and southern Vietnam.

However, tourists should also be aware of the possible challenges and risks of traveling in different seasons, such as heat, humidity, rain, or typhoons.

Therefore, they should prepare well for their trip and check the weather forecast before they go.

Vietnam Weather by Months

Factors such as holidays and festivals also play a role in determining the best time to visit Vietnam.

To help you plan your trip, this article includes a table that lists the best places to visit in Vietnam each month, taking into account the weather, peak tourist seasons, and cultural events. This will provide you with a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your Vietnam vacation.

If you want to visit Vietnam, you might be wondering what the weather is like in different months. Well, it depends on where you go and what you want to do. Vietnam has a diverse climate, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. But don't worry, I'll give you a general overview of what to expect in each month, based on the average weather patterns. You can also check out the holidays and events that happen in each month in Vietnam.

This is a good month to enjoy the dry and pleasant weather in most parts of Vietnam, except for the north. The north can get quite cold, especially in the morning and evening. You might need some warm clothes and jackets if you go to places like Sapa and Ha Giang. If you're looking for some beach time, head to Phu Quoc, where the sun is always shining. Just be aware that Halong Bay can be foggy this month, so you might not see the best views.

The weather gets warmer in most of Vietnam, except for the north, which still feels chilly. This is a high season for tourism, so expect more crowds and higher prices. But it's also a great time to experience the TET festival, which is the Vietnamese New Year. It's a big celebration with lots of food, fireworks, and fun. Just keep in mind that many shops, museums, and restaurants are closed for about a week during TET.

This is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, as the weather is fantastic everywhere. You have more options for beach destinations, such as Mui Ne, Con Dao, and Nha Trang. Hoi An is also a lovely place to enjoy the beach and the old town. This is also a great time to visit Halong Bay, which should have clear blue skies and no fog.

Like March, April is another great month to visit Vietnam, with amazing weather everywhere. This is also a high season for tourism, so be prepared for more crowds and higher prices.

The weather gets hotter in May, but it's still a good time to visit Vietnam before the rainy season starts. You might get some rain in the north and south by the end of the month, but nothing too serious. You can also take advantage of the lower prices after the high season.

You might get some rain in the north and south of Vietnam, but it's usually not too bad. You can still enjoy the sunny days in Hanoi, Mai Chau, and Halong Bay. The best place to be is in central Vietnam, where the weather is still dry and sunny. You can relax on the beaches of Lang Co and Hoi An, or explore the countryside and culture. This is also a good time to travel before the school holidays start next month.

Central Vietnam is still the best place to be in July, with lots of sunshine and little rain. The rest of Vietnam might have some showers, but they won't ruin your fun.

Central Vietnam is still a good place to visit in August, although you might get some more rain by the end of the month. The rest of Vietnam might also have some rain, but it's not too bad. You can also enjoy some discounts on flights and hotels during the low season.

This is a good month to catch the last sun on the central coast of Vietnam before it gets too rainy. The north and south are usually very wet this month, but you can still find some bargains on hotels.

The weather gets better in the north of Vietnam in October, and this is a great time to visit places like Sapa or Ha Giang. You can admire the stunning scenery of rice terraces, valleys, and mountains that change color with the seasons. You can also hike, bike, or stay with the local people who live there. This is not a good month for beach lovers, but Vietnam has so much more to offer than just beaches. And traveling in October means you avoid the crowds.

The high season starts again in November, as many people come to Vietnam for the cooler winter months in the north. By the end of the month, most of Vietnam is hot and dry again, except for the central region, which might have some rain.

There is still a chance of rain in the central part of Vietnam in December; however, most of Vietnam is hot and dry again. The beach season starts again on Phu Quoc island. You should book early for Christmas time, as it can get very busy.

If you want to visit the mountainous regions in the north of Vietnam, like Sapa, Ha Giang, or Mu Cang Chai, you should know that the weather there is very different from the rest of the country. There are two seasons: dry and wet. The dry season is from October to March, and it can get very cold and frosty, especially at night. The wet season is from April to September, and it can get very rainy and muddy. The best time to go trekking or cycling in these areas is between September and November, or between March and May, when the temperature is comfortable and the scenery is beautiful.

The north of Vietnam also includes Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau, and Hai Phong. These places have a clear winter and summer season. The winter is cool but mostly dry, from November to April, with an average temperature of 17-22 degrees Celsius. The coldest months are January to March. The summer is hot and humid, from May to October, with a lot of rainfall. The wettest months are July to September. Sometimes there are severe storms that can affect the sailing in Halong Bay.

The central part of Vietnam has some popular destinations like Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, Dalat, Quy Nhon, and Nha Trang. The weather here varies depending on the location. Hoi An, Hue, and Da Nang have hot and dry weather from mid-January to late August, with temperatures often reaching mid-30 degrees Celsius. During the winter months, the rainfall increases with the peak levels in October and November, sometimes in the form of typhoons. Hue is often cooler than Hoi An, especially early in the year. And sometimes the weather can be very different between the two cities because they are on opposite sides of a mountain range.

Quy Nhon is a bit further south of Hoi An and has a similar weather pattern but with a longer dry season. Nha Trang is even further south and has a longer dry season too (from January to September), with high temperatures and little rain. The rainy season is from October to early December with almost half the annual rainfall falling in October and November. Dalat is in the central highlands and has a different climate from the rest of the region. It is wet from June to October and dry from November to May. It can be cold in December and January.

The south of Vietnam includes Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island, Con Dao Island, Phan Thiet, Mui Ne. The temperature here is constant throughout the year, around 25-35 degrees Celsius. The climate is split into two simple seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is from November to April or early May, with a little warmer and more humid at the end of February to May. The wet season is from May to early November, with June to August being the rainiest months of the year. The rain usually comes in short but heavy downpours in the afternoon.

The islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao are in the far south and can be enjoyed year-round, with sunny days most of the time. But if you visit outside the dry season, you should expect some afternoon showers

Best time to visit Vietnam

The best time to visit Vietnam overall is from November to April.  During this time, the weather is dry and sunny in most parts of the country, making it ideal for sightseeing, swimming, and outdoor activities. The temperatures are also mild, ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (25-30 degrees Celsius).

The summer months (May to October) are hot and humid in most parts of Vietnam.  The temperatures can soar into the 90s Fahrenheit (35 degrees Celsius) and the humidity can be oppressive. However, there are some benefits to visiting Vietnam during the summer. The crowds are smaller and the prices are lower. There are also some festivals that are only held during the summer, such as the Floating Lantern Festival in Huế.

The shoulder seasons (April to June and September to November) offer a good compromise between weather and crowds.  The weather is still pleasant during these months, but the crowds are not as large as they are during the peak season.

Here is a more detailed breakdown of the weather by region in Vietnam:

• North Vietnam:  The weather in North Vietnam is influenced by the monsoons. The dry season runs from October to April, with the warmest months being March and April. The rainy season runs from May to September, with the wettest months being July and August.
• Central Vietnam:  Central Vietnam has a tropical climate, with hot, humid summers and warm, dry winters. The driest months are from December to April, with the wettest months being from August to October.
• South Vietnam:  South Vietnam has a tropical monsoon climate, with hot, humid summers and warm, dry winters. The driest months are from December to April, with the wettest months being from August to October..

Below are some of the best times to visit some famous tourist destinations in Vietnam: Sapa: You can travel to Sapa any time of year, but March to May and September to November are the best times to go. The weather is mild and sunny, and the scenery is stunning. The rice fields are also at their most beautiful during this time, with the terraced fields stretching out as far as the eye can see in shades of yellow and gold. Hanoi:  Autumn (around September to November) and Spring (March and April) are the two best seasons to visit Hanoi. The weather is pleasant with milder temperatures during these times. In winter, Hanoi can be quite cold, with temperatures sometimes falling below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. The summers are hot, with average temperatures around 82 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. July is the hottest month in Hanoi, with an average temperature of 84 degrees Fahrenheit. January is the coldest month, with an average temperature of 63 degrees Fahrenheit. July also has the most daily sunshine hours, with an average of 8 hours of sunlight per day. The wettest month is July, with an average of 210 millimeters of rain. Halong Bay:  Halong Bay has a tropical monsoon climate with two main seasons: the hot and wet season from May to October and the cool and dry season from November to April. Even though summer and winter draw a lot of local and foreign visitors. However, the best times to visit Halong Bay would be spring and fall (from March to April and September to October). Because the weather is very nice and dry, and fewer typhoons, you will lower the risk on your trip. January is the coldest month in Halong Bay, with the average temperature dropping to a low of 57°F. Ha Giang:  If you want to do the Ha Giang loop in Vietnam, you need to pick the right time of the year. The weather can make a big difference in your experience. The best time to go is from September to November and March to May, when it's cooler and more comfortable. January is the coldest month, so you'll need to bundle up if you go then. The average high is only 62°F. June to August is the worst time to go, because it's super hot, humid, and rainy. It's the tropical "rainy season", so you can expect thunderstorms in the late afternoon and at night. December to February is also cool, but not too bad. You can still enjoy the loop if you wear warm clothes. Ninh Binh:  The best time to go is during the dry season, from November to April, when it's cooler and drier. You won't have to worry about rain or heat. If you want to see the rice fields in Tam Coc or the rural life of Ninh Binh, you can go from late May to early July, which is the harvest season in summer, or from September to October, which is also the harvest season for wet rice. You will get to see the natural beauty of this place. Hoi An & Da Nang:  The driest time of the year and the best months to visit Hoi An are from February to April. The humidity is low and the temperatures are fairly mild. WET SEASON: The rainy season in Hoi An lasts from September to January. Heavy showers are common and they may come with typhoons and flooding, especially in October and November. October is the wettest month of the year in Hoi An with the most rainfall. This may cause flooding and can spoil your trip. For Danang, which has lots of lovely beaches, the first time of year to avoid in Da Nang is during the monsoon months of September to December when it will be hot, humid and rainy. The coldest month is January at 8°C (46°F) with the most daily sunshine hours at 11 in July. The rainiest month is October with an average of 150mm of rain. The best time to visit the city is from February to May. During this period, Da Nang has sunny skies and low humidity levels, so you can easily explore on foot or by motorbike taxi cab. Da Nang's beaches offer an average water temperature of 25°C. Ho Chi Minh city:  The weather is warm all year round with an average temperature of about 28°C (82°F). The best time to visit Ho Chi Minh City weather-wise is from December to March. The skies are clear, the temperatures are fairly mild, and the humidity is at its lowest. Rainy season in Ho Chi Minh: May - November. Especially in October, there will be high tides which may cause serious flooding, so be prepared with boots and a water-proof backpack! Mekong Delta:  The best time to go is during the dry season, from November to April, when it's warmer and drier. You won't have to deal with rain or cold. The weather is great for enjoying the beaches and exploring the region's amazing nature. Even though it may seem touristy, but we still think it's worth to visit Mekong Delta and go on a boat tour. Phu Quoc:  If you want to visit Phu Quoc, you need to know the best time to go. The weather can affect your trip a lot. The dry season in Phu Quoc lasts from late October to April next year. During this time, the average temperature is about 27-28 degrees, and the highest temperature reaches 35 degrees. This is the best time for sightseeing and relaxing. May is the hottest month in Phu Quoc with an average temperature between 30.5°C (86.9°F) and 28.8°C (83.84°F). After the peak season, from the end of May to the beginning of October, Phu Quoc enters the rainy season. In this season, there are usually heavy rainfalls, strong sea waves, constant wind and high humidity.

Here are some suggestions for the best time to visit based on what you want to do and where you want to go.

If you love beaches and want to enjoy the sun and sea, the best time to visit Vietnam is from July to August, when the central coast has the best weather. You can cruise Halong Bay, relax on the sandy beaches of Danang and Nha Trang, or explore the islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao. However, this is also the peak season for tourism, so you should book your flights and hotels in advance and expect higher prices and crowds. Remember to checkout some of our best Vietnam Beach Holidaysbest Vietnam Beach Holidays & Tour Packages.

If you are into hiking and outdoor activities, the best time to visit Vietnam is from September to November or from March to May , when the weather is cooler and drier in the north and the highlands. You can trek in Sapa, visit the Phong Nha Caves, or cycle around Mai Chau and Ninh Binh. However, you should be prepared for some rain and mud, especially in the wet season from May to October. Check out our sample list of Vietnam adventures and Vietnam trekking tours for some great ideas on activities that you absolutely love.

If you want to experience the culture and history of Vietnam , the best time to visit Vietnam is from December to March, when the weather is pleasant and dry in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. You can wander around the Old Quarter of Hanoi, see the colonial buildings and temples, or visit the Hoan Kiem Lake. You can also visit Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and the Cu Chi Tunnels. However, you should be aware that it can get very cold in the north, especially in December and January.

If you want to enjoy the cuisine and festivals of Vietnam, the best time to visit Vietnam is anytime of the year , as there are always delicious dishes and colorful events to try and see. You can sample pho, banh mi, spring rolls, bun cha, cao lau, and many more. You can also join in the celebrations of Tet (Vietnamese New Year), Trung Nguyen (Wandering Souls Day), or Buon Ma Thuot Coffee Festival.

Vietnam is a beautiful country with a diverse climate. The weather varies depending on the region and the time of year. In general, the best time to visit Vietnam is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with little rain. If you're looking for cooler weather, you may want to consider visiting Vietnam during the winter months (December to February). However, be aware that it can get quite cold in the north during this time.

Packing tips

If you are planning to visit Vietnam, you need to pack smartly and be prepared for different weather conditions. Here are some packing tips to help you enjoy your trip to Vietnam:

• Pack light and versatile clothing. Vietnam has a hot and humid climate for most of the year, especially in the south. You will want to wear light and breathable fabrics, such as cotton, linen, or silk. Avoid synthetic materials that can trap heat and sweat. You can also layer your clothing to adjust to the temperature changes, especially in the north, where it can get cooler in the winter. Choose clothing that can be mixed and matched easily, such as neutral colors or simple patterns.
• Pack rain gear and sun protection. Vietnam has a rainy season from May to October, which can bring heavy downpours and floods. You will need a waterproof jacket, an umbrella, and waterproof shoes or sandals. You will also need to protect yourself from the sun, which can be very strong in Vietnam. Pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm. You can also buy these items locally if you run out or forget them.
• Pack respectful clothing for visiting temples and pagodas. Vietnam has a rich cultural and religious heritage, and you will likely visit some temples and pagodas during your trip. You will need to dress modestly and respectfully when entering these places. This means covering your shoulders, chest, and knees. You can pack a scarf or a sarong to wrap around yourself if needed. You will also need to remove your shoes before entering, so wear shoes that are easy to take off and put on.
• Pack some extra space for souvenirs. Vietnam has a lot of amazing things to offer, such as handicrafts, silk, coffee, spices, and more. You will probably want to buy some souvenirs for yourself or your loved ones back home. Make sure you have some extra space in your luggage for these items. You can also use packing cubes or compression bags to organize your belongings and save space. Alternatively, you can buy an extra bag or suitcase in Vietnam if you need more room.

When using our Vietnam tour packages , rest assured that we always provide the utmost care for our valued customers. In case of rain, we have umbrellas, raincoats, and waterproof shoes available for you. On sunny days, we offer traditional Vietnamese conical hats for shade, which can also serve as a souvenir for you to take home.

Vietnam travel planning tips

Vietnam has different weather patterns in different regions, so you can experience various seasons in one trip. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip to Vietnam based on the weather:

• Know the seasons. Vietnam has four seasons in the north: spring (February to April), summer (May to August), autumn (September to November), and winter (December to January). The south has only two seasons: dry (November to April) and rainy (May to October). The central region has a transitional climate, with hot and dry weather from January to August, and rainy and cool weather from September to December.
• Choose your destinations. Depending on your preferences and interests, you can choose different destinations in Vietnam that suit the weather. For example, if you like warm and sunny weather, you can visit the beaches and islands of the south and central regions, such as Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, or Da Nang. If you prefer cooler and drier weather, you can explore the mountains and ethnic groups of the north, such as Sapa, Ha Giang, or Mai Chau. If you want to experience the cultural and historical attractions of Vietnam, you can visit the cities of Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, or Hoi An.
• Pack smartly. Vietnam has a hot and humid climate for most of the year, especially in the south. You will want to pack light and breathable clothing, such as cotton, linen, or silk. You will also need rain gear and sun protection, such as a waterproof jacket, an umbrella, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and lip balm. For the north, you will need warmer clothing, such as sweaters, jackets, scarves, and gloves. You will also need respectful clothing for visiting temples and pagodas, such as long pants or skirts and shirts that cover your shoulders and chest.
• Check the weather forecast . Vietnam's weather can be unpredictable and change quickly. You will need to check the weather forecast before you go and during your trip. You will also need to be aware of the possible natural disasters that can occur in Vietnam, such as typhoons, floods, landslides, or droughts. You can use online sources or apps to get updated information on the weather and alerts.

The most costly time to visit Vietnam would be during the holiday season, between December and January. You have three major holidays, such as Christmas, New Year, and Tet, around this time, so a lot of foreign and local tourism is going on. The best time to book flights to Vietnam is during the off-season months of April, May, October, and November which October is the cheapest month you should consider. During these months, flight prices are usually lower due to fewer tourists visiting the country.

In conclusion, Vietnam is a country that stretches over 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) and as a result, the weather can vary greatly depending on the region. The northern part of the country has a temperate climate while the southern part is tropical. Despite this variation, spring is considered the best time to visit Vietnam overall as the weather is generally mild with moderate temperatures and little rainfall. However, during the monsoon season, heavy rains and flooding can occur, and the heat and humidity in the summer can be intense.

Beside of that, based on the information provided above, the best time to visit Vietnam for those interested in avoiding the crowds and high prices, would be during the shoulder seasons which is late February to April and September to November. The weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, which can make for a more authentic and enjoyable experience. For those interested in experiencing festivals and cultural events, planning a trip around one of Vietnam's many festivals and cultural events can be a great way to enhance a traveler's experience. For beach goers, the best time to visit would be during the dry months of March to July.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Vietnam will depend on the individual traveler's interests and priorities. By considering the information provided in this article, travelers can make an informed decision on when to plan their trip to Vietnam and make the most of their time in this beautiful country.

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Last updated on 2023-08-23 03:19:00.  

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Best Time of the Year to Visit Vietnam

Vietnam Weather & When to Go to Vietnam

Are you a beach bum or an adventure lover? It does not matter that you are interested in a relaxing trip, a cultural trip or an adventurous one, Vietnam has it all.

Owing to gorgeous natural landscapes, paradise beaches, dynamic cities and unique culture, Vietnam can offer you a vacation with various possibilities. 

Now, if you are attracted to the thought of traveling to Vietnam, you may wonder: What is the best time of the year to visit Vietnam ?

The answer is: your best time to go to Vietnam exactly depends on where you will go and what type of vacation you want to enjoy. Other factors attributing the decision when to visit Vietnam include holidays and festivals.

Choosing when to travel to Vietnam is crucial, both for packing purposes and personal comfort. Below we introduce a seasonal guide highlighting useful information about Vietnam climate, weather by month, and seasons in different regions of the country. Also, you will find an idea of when to visit northern, central and southern Vietnam in VietnamDiscovery ’s quick guide.

1. Vietnam Weather Overview

Due to the narrow and long shape, Vietnam has three primary regions, including north, central and south. Each one experiences different season features and weather events. At times, there can be white snow in the mountainous far north but sunshine and wind at the beaches in the south. 

Vietnam climate varies throughout the country at different times of the year, so it is essential to distinguish between the featured weather and climate of each region in Vietnam. 

Vietnam weather highlights:

• The north of Vietnam: the climate includes 4 seasons, which are Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter. In northern provinces like Hanoi, the weather from May to October is hot and humid with rainfall, and cooler and dry from November to April. But in the far north, it can be very cold from December to January. 
• Central Vietnam: The typical climate of central Vietnam is tropical monsoon, also known as tropical wet climate. This region experiences dry, hot weather from January to August with temperatures of up to mid-30°C; while the highest rainfall often happens in September, October, and November.
• The south of Vietnam : there are only two seasons, dry and rainy season in the south. It is dry and hot from November to April, gets wet and warm from May to October, and has the highest rainfall from June to August.

2. Vietnam Destinations By Region

A brief table of the best time of the year to visit Vietnam by region:

Now, let’s start to get to know more about the best time of the year to visit Vietnam by region:

2.1. The North of Vietnam + Mountainous Far North

2.1.1. mountainous far north: ha giang, sapa, bac ha, mu cang chai.

The climate in mountainous far north Vietnam (like Ha Giang, Sapa) and north-west region (like Mu Cang Chai) is split into two separate seasons: dry season running from October to late March and the wet season running from April to September. It becomes frosty and cold from December to January, particularly at night.

So the best time to visit this region is from October to April (during the dry season), despite it gets very cold from December to January. You should avoid traveling to mountainous far north Vietnam during the rainy season from May to September. 

For those who love adventure and trekking, the best conditions for these activities in Mu Cang Chai and Sapa is from September to November and March to May. 

In fact, cycling and trekking are practical all year round, but the winter months could be pretty chilly and the summer months are rather wet, so you had better consider these features before setting a plan for any activity in Vietnam. 

2.1.2. Northern Vietnam: Hanoi, Hai Phong, Halong Bay, Mai Chau, Ninh Binh, Cuc Phuong,…

Generally featured by the tropical climate, the north of Vietnam has four distinct seasons, namely spring, autumn, summer and winter. 

The best time to visit northern Vietnam is spring (from March to April) and autumn (from September to November). 

The worst time to visit the north of Vietnam is from May to early September. This is the rainy season in full swing and the air is humid and hot, which is particularly out of comfort zone for most European tourists. 

2.1.3. Northern Vietnam Weather Highlights

Northern topography is complex and various with plains, mountains, coasts and continental shelves, but the climate here is basically continental climate, as affected by the Chinese mainland weather. 

Northern provinces of Vietnam experience cold dry winters from December to February, with a minimum temperature of 15°C. The coldest months of the year are December and January, with a maximum temperature of around 20°C. 

The summer lasts from May to September, with hot and humid weather and the highest rainfall. If you do not have any problem with hefty rainfall, then you can still explore North Vietnam during these months. Nevertheless, keep an eye on weather forecasts to avoid the typhoon. 

The high level of humidity could be somehow grueling at times, but local natural flora is incredibly lush owing to the rain. 

The best time to visit North Vietnam includes:

• November: about 26°C, with 5 sunshine hours, 5 rainy days, 25°C water temperature
• December: about 22°C, with 4 sunshine hours, 3 rainy days, 22°C water temperature
• January: about 20°C, with 3 sunshine hours, 5 rainy days, 20°C water temperature
• February: about 21°C, with 2 sunshine hours, 7 rainy days, 19°C water temperature
• March: about 23°C, with 2 sunshine hours, 11 rainy days, 20°C water temperature
• April: about 27°C, with 3 sunshine hours, 9 rainy days, 23°C water temperature

Best places to visit in the North of Vietnam in each season:

What to pack:

• Light cotton clothes (summer)
• Warm duffle jacket and boots (winter)
• Good walking shoes
• Rain jacket

2.2. Central Vietnam

2.2.1. hoi an, danang, hue, nha trang, quy nhon, dalat.

In general, the climate and weather in central Vietnam is a combination of that of the north and the south, which is a tropical, semi-humid climate. The difference between the climate in Central Vietnam and South Vietnam is that there will be more rain in the South. 

Hoi An, Danang, and Hue are located in the center of Vietnam and feature hot and dry weather from January to August. During this time, the temperature reaches about the mid-30’°C, especially from May onwards, so it gets rather uncomfortable. From June to July, temperatures will not drop down below 24°C at night. Temperatures begin to decrease again after September, but precipitation increases until October and November.

The rainfall increases during winter months, with the peak levels in October and November. There are also occasionally typhoons with strong winds and heavy downpours in the winter, but fortunately, flooding is not heard during this time. 

2.2.2. Central Vietnam Weather Highlights

The best time to visit Central Vietnam includes:

• February: about 26°C, with 5 sunshine hours and 6 rainy days
• March: about 27°C, with 5 sunshine hours and rainy days
• April: about 30°C, with 6 sunshine hours and rainy days
• May: about 32°C, with 7 sunshine hours and rainy days

Best places to visit in Central Vietnam in each season:

• Light cotton clothing
• Enough money to have a piece of tailor-made clothing made (Vietnam Dong/ US Dollars)

2.3. The South of Vietnam

2.3.1. Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Mekong Delta, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc island, Con Dao, Phan Thiet – Mui Ne, …

If you are fed up with the cold, grey weather in your hometown, Southern Vietnam is really an ideal place to take a break from it. 

The best time to visit Southern Vietnam is months from December to April or May.

December, January, and February have maximal temperatures of 30-32°C with 2-7 rainy days while March and April are the hottest months of the dry season.

The rainy season in South Vietnam lasts from May to October. The months from June to September witness a particularly high level of rain while the least rainfall level is in February.  But it does not get rain all day long, but happens accidentally and stops quickly. 

In the South of Vietnam, the temperatures rarely drop below 20°C and high temperatures maintain across the year in both dry and rainy season. The climate of central highlands also follows the same pattern, despite temperatures are cooler, particularly at night.

2.3.2. South Vietnam Weather Highlights 

The best time to visit South Vietnam includes:

• December : about 30°C, with 5 sunshine hours, 7 rainy days, 28°C water temperature
• January: about 30°C, with 5 sunshine hours, 3 rainy days, 27°C water temperature
• February : about 32°C, with 6 sunshine hours, 2 rainy days, 27°C water temperature
• March: about 33°C, with 6 sunshine hours, 3 rainy days, 27°C water temperature
• April: about 34°C, with 7 sunshine hours, 4 rainy days, 28°C water temperature

Best places to visit Southern Vietnam:

• Light cotton clothes
• Quality walking shoes

3. Vietnam Destinations By Month

Best places to visit Vietnam each month:

4. Vietnam During Annual Festivals

Wondering about the best time of the year to visit Vietnam? Consider planning your trip to Vietnam during annual festivals to experience the culture and vibrancy of local Vietnamese. 

4.1. Tet Nguyen Dan (Lunar New Year):

Among festivals, the most crucial and meaningful is “Tet”, also known as Lunar New Year, lasting for about 7 days from the last week of January and the third week of February. During Tet, most Vietnamese families gather to celebrate the festival and party-like atmosphere seems to cover every street corner of Vietnam, especially in the cities. 

There are colorful decorations adorning streets (mainly red and gold), the incense’s scent in the air and splendid fireworks displays booming on the skies, and temples bursting with visitors at this time of the year. 

4.2. Danang International Fireworks Festival (DIFF):

Celebrated in April annually, this festival is a dazzling performance of fireworks displays with the participation of both local and international teams. 

In the festival, Danang city is lightened up in creativity and spectacular colors There is a different theme in annual festivals and each team uses their fireworks performances and music to relate a story about that theme in their own manners. 

It is said that there is no better time to visit Danang than this time of the year. Besides enjoying the fireworks performances along the eastern side of the Han River, tourists can also contemplate natural landscapes and take part in fun-filled activities in Danang. 

4.3. Hue Festival:

Taking place from April to May every two years, this 6-day festival boasts a spectacular range of shows, performances, art exhibits, and cultural activities that celebrate the history and cultures of Vietnam from 19 different countries around the world. 

Ao Dai fashion show, echoes from Perfume River , Hue Citadel, Hue royal inspiration, international art troupes are among noticeable highlights of the festive that you can enjoy if you find yourself in Hue at this time.

Indeed, recommending exactly the best time of the year to visit Vietnam could be a little bit hard because of the difference in geographical circumstances in each region. Nonetheless, one rule of thumb is to visit this Southeast Asian country during the dry season to avoid possible storms or typhoons.

Hope that after reading this brief guide on the best time of the year to visit Vietnam, you to better plan your trip to Vietnam.

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The best time of year to visit Vietnam

COVID-19 update – Vietnam, September 18, 2020: As one of the first countries to open the domestic tourism market, Vietnam is cautiously planning to welcome international visitors.

The best months to visit Vietnam  are in December, January, the first half of February, the second half of March and April. August and November are also good times to go.

December, January, first half of February : the weather is cool and dry, best times to travel to this S-shaped country and enjoy trekking in the northern mountains. At the end of January and the beginning of February (date vary), Vietnamese New Year is the best festival to experience.

From the second half of March to the end of April : Thanks to warm, dry weather and clear sky, a perfect time to visit this quaint country and enjoy beach activities.

The rainy months are at the end of May, June, September and November. In the North, there are some muggy days from the end of February to the first half of March. Winter (December, January) is the coldest season, but only takes place in the North, the northern high mountains may have snow when the temperature drops below 0°C. May, June, July are the 3 hottest months when the average temperature is about 30°C – 35°C and outdoor temperatures on the hottest days can reach over 40°C.

If you want to know the cheapest time to fly to Vietnam, check at Google Flights or Skyscanner .

If you travel both Vietnam and Cambodia, the best months are December, January, the first half of February and April. Cambodia has a climate similar to southern Vietnam, Chol Chnam Thmay in April is Cambodian New Year.

In order to protect your health and skin from the intense sunlight on blazing hot summer days, you should bring along hats, sunglasses, sunscreen and deodorant. In contrast, the temperature on winter days can be even below 0°C (32°F) on high mountains in northern; therefore, it is advisable to prepare some pieces of warm clothing. Waterproof accessories like daypack, sandals, shoes are also essential things for varied weather.

Vietnam weather guide

From a bird’s eye view, Vietnam is a year-round destination with humid subtropical climate in the North and tropical savanna climate in the South. This climate division is due to the elongated terrain that is split by Bach Ma mountain. In Northern Vietnam, from Hai Van Pass northwards, there are 4 distinct seasons including spring, summer, autumn and winter. Meanwhile, the weather in Southern Vietnam, from Hai Van Pass southwards, is divided into dry and rainy seasons.

Spring in the North lasts for about 2 months, from March to April, with the average temperature is 18°C – 23°C (64°F – 73°F), the average humidity is about 70%. In some muggy days from the end of February to the first half of March, humidity can increase to 90%.

Summer begins in May and ends in August, with the average temperature is about 30°C – 35°C (86°F – 95°F) and humidity is 60% – 70%. In May, high levels of rainfall increases average humidity to 70% – 80%.

Autumn is from September to October, the average temperature is 23°C – 28°C (73°F – 82°F), the humidity ranges from 60% to 70%. In September, the appearance of tropical storms causes the humidity to increase to 70% – 80%.

Winter lasts from November to February, the temperature hovers around 15°C – 21°C (59°F – 69°F) and the humidity is between 60% and 70%.

Southern Vietnam has a tropical savanna climate due to its proximity to the equator. The annual average temperature is about 27°C (80°F). The Southern climate comprises 2 distinct seasons, dry and rainy seasons. The rainy season begins in May and ends in November, the dry one is from December to April. The average humidity of the former ranges from 75% to 80% and that of the latter is between 65% and 70%.

The climate of the top destinations

High temp. (°C) Low temp. (°C) Rainfall (mm)

Ho Chi Minh

Ha Long Bay

Mekong river delta, travel season in vietnam.

From November to April is the high tourist season for international visitors to Vietnam. Particularly, December is the peak month, which causes travel service prices to increase by 10% or more. However, contracting prices among tourism businesses are normally stable.

The low tourist season is from April to October. The cheapest time is April and September, which is the off-peak time of both domestic and international tourism.

Vietnamese people travel mainly on 2 occasions that are summer and Tet holiday. Summer is the peak travel season for the Vietnamese because children have a summer break that lasts for about 2 months. Most of the Vietnamese choose sea travel during their vacation. At the end of the year, they tend to visit religious or mountainous tourist destinations. It is noted that travel service prices for Vietnamese people will increase sharply in the summer but not in the traditional Tet holiday.

Time to enjoy the festivals

Vietnam boasts a vibrant culture with 54 ethnic groups and 7966 festivals, most of which take place at the beginning of the year. These are the top 5 festivals and time to enjoy.

1. Tet Nguyen Dan

(10 Feb 2021 – 16 Feb 2021)

Tet Nguyen Dan is Vietnamese Lunar New Year – the most important traditional festival of the year. There are numerous cultural activities taking place throughout Vietnam. 12 PM on the last night of the lunar year (24 Jan 2020) called Dem Giao Thua (New Year’s Eve) is the most important time. At that sacred moment, families make ancestor worship, honoring deceased relatives and give each other the best wishes. On this occasion, the hustling and bustling Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are unusually peaceful.

2. Mid-Autumn Festival

(29 Sep 2020 – 1 Oct 2020)

Mid-Autumn Festival is the biggest Vietnamese children’s festival in the year. All children receive gifts, attending the star-shaped lantern parade, watching lion dance and enjoy mooncakes. Traditionally, children in large families or a neighborhood celebrate a party at 12pm on the 15th of the 8th lunar month (October 1, 2020). However, the party nowadays is generally held from 8pm to 9pm so that the kids can go to bed early.

3. Hoi An Lantern Festival

(Lunar New Year and the 14th day of the lunar month)

Besides the ancient architecture and the fairytale atmosphere, the charming Hoi An is also famous for its colorful lanterns. Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival is held monthly in the ancient town, starting from 6.30pm to 9.30pm on the 14th lunar month. On the Lunar New Year, the biggest lantern festival lasts about 1 week. At that time, this magical and sparkling town is an ideal place to get lost in a heaven of the lantern.

4. Hue Festival

(Scheduled to be held from 1st to 6th April 2020 but due to the Covid-19 epidemic, the festival is postponed 2021.)

Hue was the capital of Vietnam from 1802 to 1945, under the Nguyen Dynasty. From early times, Hue Festival was held biennially with unique performances bearing Vietnamese cultural quintessence; however, it has recently become an international festival; however, it has recently become an international festival. The 11th Hue Festival held in 2020 has been expected to be attended by 20 countries from 5 continents in the world.

5. Independence Day

(2 Sep 2021)

On September 2 every year, Vietnamese people celebrate the independence, the special and meaningful occasion which officially marked the Vietnamese freedom after over 1000 years under the colonization. On this day, Vietnamese people gather with their family or take a short journey. Throughout the country, from big streets to every corner are dyed in red by the national flag.

National holidays

List of Vietnamese national holidays in 2020 and 2021.

On holidays, Vietnamese people tend to travel more. Many famous touristy spots are even overloaded during Liberation Day, International Labour Day and Independence Day. Moreover, the price of air, train and car tickets will be much higher than that in regular days without reservation in 2 – 3 months.

The ideal time to visit the best places

Sapa is beautiful year-round but there may be floods from June to September. If you wish to “date” with terraced fields, you should go in May – watering season or from the end of September to early October – ripe rice season.

You can visit the pulsing Hanoi at any time of the year. On Tet Holiday and Independence Day, Hanoi stands out with its peaceful atmosphere.

Ha Long Bay has the most gorgeous beauty in April with a crystal blue sky. The weather is pleasant from November to March, a good time to go. However, you should consider visiting in August and September due to its typhoon season.

Ninh Binh is scenic year-round. From late May to June and from late September to October, Ripe rice fields add fascinating yellow to the picturesque scene.

From December to April, the weather is dry and cool. Most annual festivities are held in April. From late May to June is the time for heat waves with the temperature can reach over 40°C (104°F). Rainy season can occur in October and November.

The best time to visit Da Nang is from November to April. March and April are the most exquisite months, it’s warm and dry, perfect for both beach activities and mountain trekking. Fireworks festivals are usually from May to July. There may be storms in November.

Hoi An is appealing all time of the year, but more elegant on Tet Holiday and every night of the 14th lunar month with lantern festivals held in the ancient town. March and April are months to enjoy An Bang beach. It is blazing hot in late May, June and July.

Ho Chi Minh City

From December to April is the best time to visit this bustling city. Unlike its usual vibrancy, Ho Chi Minh City is more peaceful on Tet Holiday and Independence Day.

This floating maze is worthy-visited in any season of the year. Ripe rice seasons are in early April, late August and late November.

Feel free to enjoy this tropical paradise all year round except rainy season from July to September.

This coastal town is alluring from December to April. The rainy season is from October to November.

From December to April is the best time to travel to Mui Ne, one of the localities with the lowest rainfall in Vietnam.

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Come and get lost in a quaint Hanoi and scenic mountains in the north, alluring cultural heritages in the central and bustling cities or maze of rivers in the south.

A guide to celebrating Tet in Vietnam

Tet, known as the Vietnamese New Year or Vietnamese Lunar New Year, is the biggest and most important celebration in Vietnamese culture representing the unique cultural identity of Vietnam.

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Vietnam has had a tumultuous background, with many different governments from imperial Chinese rule, to independent dynasties, to French Colonial rule then the brutality of the Vietnamese War until 1975 decided the victory of communist governance. Yet, Vietnam has really transformed into the ultimate destination. It has the best of both worlds with a relaxing lush countryside and dynamic cities to rival anywhere else in the world.

You won't find any animosity towards Americans, whether you're in the north or the south. It feels like they see what we would call the Vietnam War as their own war between the North and the South, and Americans were just there helping one of the sides.

Weather in Vietnam

The weather in Vietnam is very dependent on the region, as the southern coast may be very warm while the northern region is freezing. The best time to visit Vietnam really depends on the destination.

In Northern Vietnam (Hanoi and beyond), most people prefer November to April when it is dry and cool in the low 60-70's Fahrenheit. Central Vietnam can be very hot and rainy so spring and autumn are the best times to go before temperatures frequent the mid 90's and there is constant rainfall.

In southern Vietnam, the climate is split into a wet (May-November) and dry season (October-April). The temperature usually remains in the 77-95F year round. Also relevant: the rains tend to be intense but short, making travel possible in the wet season if one does not mind short afternoon rainstorms.

Things to See and Do

Vietnam has gorgeous natural landscapes to enjoy for the outdoor adventurer. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a UNESCO heritage site in central Vietnam, and is renowned for large caves and limestone grottos, including the the largest known cave in the world.

In the northwestern corner of the country, you'll find the charming town of Sapa, with incredible views, rice paddies, markets, and great hiking.

Unlike Thailand (where people drive on the left side of the road), in Vietnam you'll drive on the right hand side of the road. If you plan to rent a car or motorcycle, and you're American, you won't have to make a mental adjustment--if you're from Australia, New Zealand, or the UK you'll probably find that you adapt pretty quickly.

Having said that, traffic in Hanoi and in Saigon is insane by North American standards. There's no such thing as a left turn lane--oncoming traffic that wants to turn left simply weaves in between the oncoming traffic. And, 90% or more of the vehicles on the road (and on the sidewalk, by the way!) are scooters.

Ecotourism tours, extreme rock climbing, and hiking are all tourist activities offered by the park.

Another UNESCO heritage site to visit in northern Vietnam is Halong Bay . It is a beautiful place to rent a kayak or junk boat to explore the over 700 islets and limestone cliffs.

A fabulous way to explore Halong Bay is by luxury small cruise ship . Most of these boats have only 15-20 staterooms, with restaurants onboard, some with a pool, spa, cooking classes, etc. These boats will work their way through the bay's some 1,600 islands, stopping for kayaking, exploring caves, or visiting Viet Hai Village on one of the only occupied islands.

To compare all resorts in Vietnam, click here .

Typical airfares from LAX to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Ho Chi Minh City is the largest city in Vietnam with many amusements for tourists. It is well known for hundreds of cinemas and theaters, museums, art, football clubs among other activities.

Water temperature and SCUBA diving in Vietnam

You can dive year-round in Vietnam, but the primary diving season is March through October for the southwest coast (before the monsoon season), or November through March for Phu Quoc Island and the Con Dao archipelago. Water temperature is typically around 82F. It's a relatively new destination for divers, but it's growing in popularity with both new and seasoned divers. Undersea life you might see includes black frogfish, sting rays, eagle rays, manta rays, bamboo sharks, barracuda, and dugongs.

For a list of the top dive sites in Vietnam, check out PADI's page .

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Best Places to Travel Solo | Money

Traveling exposes us to new places, cultures and people. For many, it’s one of the great joys of life. If you’re an independent spirit looking for safe places to travel by yourself, our guide can be an excellent place to start your research.

Keep reading to learn about our top picks for the best places to travel alone and how to make the most of your trip.

Our Top Picks for Best Places to Travel Solo

• Barcelona, Spain: Best for first-time solo travelers
• Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Best for solo backpacking
• Montreal, Canada: Best for solo female travelers
• Chicago, Illinois: Best for going on solo travel tours
• Ljubljana, Slovenia: Best budget solo travel destination

Best Places to Travel Solo Reviews

Best for first-time solo travelers: barcelona, spain.

• Offers many travel experiences in a single city
• Easy to get around town without a car
• Year-round good weather means you can visit in any season
• More expensive than other options on our list
• Can get very busy during popular travel times

Why we chose it : Barcelona is a beautiful and historic European city with something for everyone to enjoy. It boasts stunning gothic architecture, sandy beaches, a bustling nightlife and prices that will help you stretch your budget.

Spain is considerably affordable compared to other European countries, and Barcelona is its crown jewel. The city has roots tracing back to the end of the 1st century BCE and beautiful architecture throughout its winding streets, such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and his world-famous unfinished church, La Sagrada Familia.

If you tire of exploring Barcelona’s impressive history, gorgeous Barceloneta Beach is just a few minutes away from the city center. And at night, you’ll find plenty of entertainment options, from rooftop bars and clubs to concert venues and flamenco shows.

Barcelona is excellent for first-time solo travelers because its compact layout, wide sidewalks and excellent public transportation makes getting around town without a car a breeze. U.S. travelers can also visit for up to 90 days without a visa . However, Barcelona is more expensive than other options on our list and can be very busy during popular travel times.

Best for solo backpacking: Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

• Very affordable accommodations, food and attractions
• Is easy to navigate, with a developed transportation system
• Has a vibrant expat community
• U.S. citizens need a tourist visa to visit Vietnam

Why we chose it : Ho Chi Minh City is a bustling and affordable city that offers a wide range of attractions for solo travelers, from inexpensive food and accommodations to an abundance of cultural and historical sites.

Visiting Ho Chi Minh City has become something of a bucket-list item for many backpackers. Its vibrant culture, friendly people and amazing food attract millions of tourists annually. And it’s also one of Vietnam’s safest cities .

Try some of the mouth-watering street food available in pretty much every corner of the city (especially Districts 1, 3 and 5), do some shopping at the Ben Thanh Market, visit the Notre Dame Cathedral or book a tour of the Mekong Delta to learn more about the local flora and fauna.

Getting around is also pretty easy, with many transportation options, from the new metro to buses, taxis and motorbikes. However, one thing to keep in mind is that U.S. citizens need to apply for a Visa before they can be granted entry into Vietnam.

Best for solo female travelers: Montreal, Canada

• Very safe and walkable city
• Visitors can stay for up to six months without a Visa
• Toronto is only five hours away by direct train
• Not a great option for budget travelers
• The winter weather can be harsh

Why we chose it : Montreal is one of the safest cities in Canada, and it is only a short flight away for travelers from the U.S. The city has a vibrant art scene, a diverse population and plenty of old-world charm with its mix of classic and modern architecture.

Traveling solo as a woman might cause your loved ones some anxiety. But Montreal is a great place for women to travel alone. The city is safe and offers much to do, from beautiful architecture, such as Notre-Dame Basilica, to artisanal shopping in Old Montreal. And while the population is predominantly French-speaking, many residents also speak English, so you should have no problem communicating.

Visitors from the United States can stay in Montreal for up to six months without a visa. It’s also a good point of departure for exploring the rest of Canada. Trains depart for Toronto several times a day, and the trip is about five hours.

Accommodations in Montreal can be more expensive than in other international destinations, but enrolling in the best hotel rewards programs may help.

Best for going on solo travel tours: Chicago, Illinois

• You can find many different types of guided tours
• Has an excellent public transportation system
• One of the best culinary destinations in the U.S.
• Weather can be unpleasant if you visit at the wrong time

Why we chose it : Chicago is home to some of the best travel tours in the country. From river cruises to walking food and drink excursions, you’ll have no problem filling your time in the Windy City.

Chicago is one of the best places to travel in the U.S. It’s home to a wide variety of guided tours, covering everything from the city’s mob history to its architecture and natural landmarks. And if you love Chicago dogs or deep-dish pizza, you can take a walking food tour to enjoy some of the city’s best restaurants in a single day.

Chicago is also home to inspiring architecture, such as Willis Tower and Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. The city is a more affordable place to visit than other U.S. cities of its size, including San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York. And if you visit in summer, you’ll have perfect weather for relaxing on the beaches of Lake Michigan, located in the heart of the city.

Depending on what you’re looking for, visiting the city between May and October could be your best bet, as winters can be very cold, with average temperatures ranging between 22 F and 37 F.

Best budget solo travel destination: Ljubljana, Slovenia

• A highly affordable travel destination
• Easy entrance requirements for U.S. citizens
• Classic European architecture and dining options
• Plenty of green spaces to lounge and relax
• Doesn't have a strong nightlife culture
• Crowds can be overwhelming during peak travel seasons

Why we chose it : Slovenia is one of the most affordable European countries, and Ljubljana is one of the country’s most beautiful destinations. It’s home to classic European cobblestone streets and its stunning architecture and exhibits can keep you busy for weeks without breaking your budget.

Ljubljana is an affordable European destination with beautiful green spaces and incredible architecture, including the Ljubljana Castle and the Robba Fountain. It’s also highly walkable and pedestrian-friendly, as car traffic is banned in the city center.

Hotels are cheaper here than in more popular destinations such as France or Italy, which is a big reason why Ljubljana is one of the best international places to travel . There are also many great affordable restaurants and open-air cafes.

U.S. citizens can remain in Slovenia for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easy to extend their stay with the money they save.

However, Ljubljana is not known for its nightlife, as many bars close earlier than elsewhere in Europe. Plus, it has become more popular in recent years, and crowds are abundant during peak seasons, especially the summer.

Other places to travel solo we considered

We compiled our list of the best places to travel alone by evaluating global destinations based on safety, affordability, cultural and historical sites and convenience, among other factors.

Although the following destinations didn’t make it into our top list, they’re still worth considering as you plan your travels.

Reykjavik, Iceland

• Close to beautiful natural landmarks
• It's possible to see the Northern Lights when conditions allow
• Home to many museums and several Michelin-starred restaurants
• More expensive than other popular travel destinations
• The region's weather can be bleak
• Long periods of darkness and sunlight can interfere with your sleep schedule

Reykjavik is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with stunning mountains and beaches everywhere you look. However, it’s an expensive destination and experiences prolonged periods of darkness and sunlight that may be difficult to adjust to.

• Some of the best food in South America
• Miles of beautiful coastline to explore
• Friendly locals - many of whom speak at least some English
• Travelers can suffer from altitude sickness in some popular attractions
• The city is sprawling, which can increase travel times and make traffic worse

Lima is a beautiful South American destination with picturesque beaches and affordable accommodations. It’s also a foodie’s dream, with a wide variety of tasty local and international restaurants available at budget-friendly prices.

Just remember that traffic congestions are common and can make it hard to get around. Additionally, some travelers may experience altitude sickness in high-altitude locations like Cusco and Machu Picchu.

Knoxville, Tennessee

• Has beautiful outdoor settings
• Minimal traffic
• Moderate prices for accommodations
• There isn't as much to do in Knoxville as in other travel destinations
• Public transportation options are limited

Knoxville is the third-largest city in Tennessee, but it maintains a small-town feel. It’s home to beautiful attractions, such as the Great Smoky Mountains and the World’s Fair Park, and has enough cultural exhibits and museums to keep you busy.

Nevertheless, there isn’t quite as much to do here as in other cities, and public transportation is comparatively limited.

Places to Travel Solo Guide

Traveling alone can be intimidating, but a little preparation can go a long way. This guide covers some of the best travel tips to help you plan your next solo trip.

Why travel solo?

As with everything, there are pros and cons to traveling alone.

Some of the benefits of solo travel include:

• The ability to plan trips according to your schedule
• Paying less for dining and experiences
• Stepping out of your comfort zone and getting to know yourself better
• Having more time to reflect and relax in peace

Of course, to enjoy your solo vacation to the fullest, practice general safety precautions. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, do some proper research before visiting new places and consider hiring a guide if you’re doing outdoor activities in remote locations.

How to travel alone

Traveling alone can be a wonderful experience. But it often requires more planning and initiative than group trips. The following tips for traveling alone should help you make the most of your next solo trip.

Research your travel destination extensively

The more research you do before visiting a destination, the more prepared you will be to enjoy it. Pay close attention to the following:

• Climate : Be aware of the weather conditions at your destination to avoid potential hazards, pack the right gear and plan appropriate activities.
• Top attractions : Plan your itinerary by mapping out the attractions you want to visit and checking their distance from your accommodations. This will help you create a realistic schedule and determine if you need to book transportation for any day trips.
• Cost : Consider the average cost of accommodations, meals and attractions to create a realistic budget.
• Public transportation : This is an important consideration, as visiting a destination with insufficient or unreliable public transportation translates into additional expenses.
• Language barrier : Consider downloading translation apps or learning basic phrases in your destination’s native language if English isn’t widely spoken there.
• Food : If you have any dietary restrictions, check the availability of suitable food options at your destination and plan your meals.

Stay connected with your friends and family

When traveling alone, keep your loved ones informed of where you’ll be and what you’ll be doing. That way, your family can call for help if they don’t hear back from you in a reasonable timeframe.

Depending on your destination, you may consider purchasing an international SIM card or an international phone plan with your existing carrier to text and call your people back home.

Finally, you can register your trip with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) through the U.S. State Department. STEP is a free service that allows you to receive automatic safety and travel updates from the U.S. embassy in the country you’re visiting. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in an emergency.

Consider travel insurance

If you’ve spent quite a bit of money on non-refundable travel expenses and it hasn’t been that long since you made your initial trip deposit, consider travel insurance to safeguard your investment. A travel insurance policy can help you recoup a portion of pre-paid travel expenses if you cancel or interrupt your trip for a covered reason.

Travel medical insurance could also be worthwhile if you’re going on an extended trip, as it would cover some of your medical expenses in an emergency, including medical evacuation and repatriation. And some plans even include additional services like language support, which could be helpful if English isn’t widely spoken where you’re visiting.

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, check out our guide to the best travel insurance companies .

Try new things

Now that we’ve covered some of the most important things to do before leaving for a solo trip, let’s explore how to get as much enjoyment out of your travels as possible while you’re there. The best advice we can give you is to get out of your comfort zone and try new things.

If you genuinely want to experience everything other cultures have to offer, you can’t spend your days doing the same things you do at home. So take a chance and live as the locals do. You’ll be happy you did.

Interact with the locals

The best way to forget you’re traveling alone is to befriend the locals. Your new friends can keep you company, guide you to the best places in town (the ones that aren’t in any tourist guides) and help to make your trip more enjoyable overall.

Meeting locals is much easier to do now than before the Internet. A wide variety of online resources can connect you to local events and groups where you can meet people. Some of the best options for this include:

• Facebook expat groups for the destination you’re visiting
• The subreddit for your destination (such as r/Paris and r/Chicago)

Some professional and religious groups may have international meetups as well. This can be a fantastic way to meet locals with whom you already have something in common.

Take plenty of pictures (with you in them)

Last but not least, make sure you take plenty of pictures to share with your people back home. Landmarks can be great, but you should also be in some of the photos. Most people will happily snap pictures of you if you ask nicely.

What to do when traveling alone

Traveling alone can be one of the best experiences of your life or a challenge that quickly loses its appeal. To give yourself the best chance of having an ideal trip, remember the following strategies during your travels:

• Be flexible : Flexibility is a must for solo travelers. You’ll have more fun if you take advantage of chance encounters and throw away your schedule when necessary.
• Take group tours and classes : Just because you arrive at your destination alone doesn’t mean you must spend every minute there alone. Group tours and classes will help you meet people and give you a chance to socialize when you’re feeling lonely.
• Stay in places that encourage talking : If you’re concerned about feeling lonely, consider staying at a hostel or bed and breakfast. Shared accommodations like these are more affordable than the best hotels and can be a great way to meet people.
• Gather first-hand advice : You can use Reddit and other resources to read about the experiences other solo travelers have had at your destination. These firsthand accounts can alert you to problems you may not have considered otherwise and new opportunities for fun.
• Sign up for free rewards programs : Airlines , hotel chains and third-party booking sites often have reward programs that help you save money if you’re a frequent traveler. You may also want to look into the best airline credit cards and best travel credit cards if you plan on traveling alone regularly.
• Prioritize your safety : Traveling alone can make you a target, so prioritizing safety is important. Be proactive about telling others where you’ll be and take yourself out of situations you feel unsure about to enjoy your trip without incident.

Staying safe is a critical consideration for solo travelers. One way to do that is by avoiding reckless behavior, such as drinking excessively and venturing alone into places locals deem unsafe.

Take the time to thoroughly research your destination, share your travel plans with friends and family and prepare an emergency plan.

Finally, consider travel insurance. If something does happen while you’re traveling alone, it will provide financial support so you can go to the hospital without worrying about breaking your budget.

You could save up enough money to make the cost of travel insurance negligible by signing up for one of the best airline rewards programs .

Places to Travel Solo FAQ

What are the safest places to travel alone, is solo female travel safe, how old do you have to be to travel alone, how we chose the best places to travel solo.

We evaluated the best places to travel solo based on the following criteria:

• Cost of accommodations, experiences and meals
• Crime rates
• Reviews and guides from experienced solo travelers
• Natural and cultural attractions
• Strictness of entry criteria

Summary of Money’s Best Places to Travel Solo

© Copyright 2023 Money Group, LLC . All Rights Reserved.

This article originally appeared on Money.com and may contain affiliate links for which Money receives compensation. Opinions expressed in this article are the author's alone, not those of a third-party entity, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed. Offers may be subject to change without notice. For more information, read Money’s full disclaimer .

Want to see the next total solar eclipse in 2026? An expert recommends booking travel now.

• 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years.
• Travelers worldwide will likely head to Spain, Iceland, and Greenland for the event.
• A hotel expert encouraged travelers to start planning and booking their trips now.

It'll be two decades before the next total solar eclipse hits the US .

Another option: hop on a plane to Europe and turn the 2026 total solar eclipse into a viewing vacation.

Eclipse cartographer Michael Zeiler at GreatAmericanEclipse.com told Space.com that up to 3.7 million people likely traveled for the solar eclipse on Monday.

HotelPlanner's chief communication officer, Philip Ballard, told Business Insider that the eclipse was a major revenue generator for many cities. For places like Austin, Texas, and Rochester, New York, it could have created $1 billion in revenue, Vox reported.

"I would say the total solar eclipse has become a global phenomenon," Ballard said.

Ballard added that the next solar eclipse , which will pass through Iceland, Greenland, and Spain on August 12, 2026, could result in similar tourism and revenue influxes.

And if travelers are considering a trip to Europe for the solar eclipse, Ballard recommends planning your trip now.

Determine your eclipse viewing destination

According to Space.com , 2026 will be Europe's first total solar eclipse in 27 years. Its path will go through Greenland, parts of western Iceland, and northern Spain.

Choosing where to watch the eclipse will be a tough and important decision for travelers.

Iceland and Greenland have some positives. These regions will experience longer totality times, so viewers can watch the eclipse longer. Plus, the sun will be higher in the sky, so finding a spot to watch the eclipse will be less challenging, Space.com reported.

The downside is that these regions are more likely to be cloudy, according to the outlet.

Related stories

While parts of Spain are likely to offer clearer skies, the eclipse's timing will be shorter and closer to the horizon, which means travelers will need to plan and track down a viewing location with unobstructed views of the western horizon, Space.com reported.

Regardless of the destination, according to the outlet, one bonus is that the strongest meteor shower in the Northern Hemisphere will happen the following night, so travelers can pack two events into one trip.

Book flights and hotels far in advance

Ballard encouraged people to book their hotels in their destination of choice as far in advance as possible.

"You should start looking now and booking hotels now because those cities in the path are already going to be at peak season," Ballard said.

Ballard said it's similar to when a Super Bowl city is determined or a Taylor Swift tour date is announced — you immediately see spikes in bookings. He predicts hotel occupancy rates will hit near-record highs, and room prices may double around the solar eclipse date.

Ballard's general rule of thumb is to book international travel at least three months in advance, but since this is such an anticipated event, booking earlier is smart. His advice is to start discussing plans with friends and family. If you decide on a destination, book a refundable room to keep your options open if plans change.

Regarding purchasing a plane ticket, a study from Expedia states that international travel's sweet spot is at least six months in advance.

According to Expedia, travelers who book six months in advance save an average of 10% more than travelers booking within two months or less.

Skip the hassle of planning altogether and book a solar eclipse tour

Another option is to let a tour operator do the work for you. A handful of tour companies have seen the increased interest in the solar eclipse and launched tours designed around the event.

These tours will have predetermined locations to view the eclipse, hotel blocks reserved, and itineraries highlighting both the region and the eclipse.

However, these can sell out quickly. For example, Space and Telescope created an 11-day tour of Spain around viewing the 2026 solar eclipse. The tour has already sold out as of Wednesday, and the waitlist is full.

Other operators, such as Wilderness Travel and Eclipse Traveler, have similar itineraries for the total eclipse in 2026.

Watch: A small Australian town was treated to a rare hybrid solar eclipse

• Main content

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.

Here is our guide for the best time to visit different regions of Vietnam.

The north of Vietnam experiences cold dry winters from December to February, where overnight temperatures can dip to 39°F. 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.

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 runs 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 days are the norm in July and August.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 81°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. Enjoy 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 the New Year 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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2044 solar eclipse path: See where in US totality hits in next eclipse

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach. here's what to know:.

Millions of Americans are by now eagerly awaiting the next total solar eclipse , which is only hours away from passing over a large swath of the continent .

But when the celestial event comes and goes, the awe-inspiring impression it leaves on skygazers may leave them with one question: "When can we see that again?"

Unfortunately, we'll have to wait awhile – this sort of spectacular astral phenomenon doesn't happen very often . Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse that will cross over the contiguous U.S.

Solar eclipse glasses: What to know about glasses, safe viewing before the solar eclipse

When will the next total solar eclipse happen in the U.S?

Only seven years have passed since Americans had the opportunity to view a total solar eclipse, a relatively rare celestial event in which the moon appears to us here on Earth to completely block the sun.

The resulting fleeting moments of darkness can last for minutes or just mere seconds and is known as " totality ," whereby the sun's outermost layer known as the corona makes a rare appearance.

Today's total solar eclipse , the first in North America since 2017, will travel over portions of northern Mexico, thousands of miles of the U.S. and the maritime provinces of Canada, according to NASA . According to astronomers, this eclipse will be brighter, will last longer and will be visible to more people than the last one in North America.

It's also the last one for 20 years in the United States.

After Monday, the next total solar eclipse viewable from the lower 48 states will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Compared to this year's eclipse, with a path of totality that will cross over 13 states, the 2044 total solar eclipse won't have as quite as broad of a reach .

The Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach and political space advocacy, says that during the 2044 eclipse, the path of totality will only touch three states.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

It's not too early to start thinking about where you want to witness it. According to whenisthenexteclipse.com , Americans may want to make sure their passports up to date.

The place to be will likely be Banff National Park in Alberta and Jasper National Park , with Calgary and Edmonton also within the path of totality.

What to know about the 2033 eclipse in Alaska

Outside of the "lower 48," Alaska is set to experience a total solar eclipse much sooner.

On March 30, 2033, a total solar eclipse will occur in Russia and cross over Alaska, according to nationaleclipse.com . The maximum duration of totality for this eclipse will be 2 minutes and 37 seconds.

Contributing: Mary Walrath-Holdridge and Gabe Hauari

Eric Lagatta covers breaking and trending news for USA TODAY. Reach him at [email protected]