When to go to Vietnam? The best season to travel
With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural and historical heritage, delicious cuisine, and welcoming people, Vietnam is a dream destination for many travelers. But before packing your bags, one essential question arises: when is the best time to visit Vietnam? Due to its elongated geography stretching from north to south, the country experiences significant climatic variations depending on the region and the season. With over 15 years of experience in organizing tailor-made trips to Vietnam, we’re here to share our best advice to help you choose the ideal time to visit, based on your preferences and itinerary.
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1. What are the best times to travel to Vietnam ?
Peak tourist season: from November to April
The period from November to April marks the peak tourist season in Vietnam. It's the ideal time to explore the entire country, from north to south, with generally mild and sunny weather throughout
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In the North (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa), temperatures range between 15°C and 25°C with little rainfall. It's a very pleasant time to explore the lively cities, admire the majestic landscapes of Ha Long Bay, or meet ethnic minority communities in the mountains.
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In the Central region (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang), temperatures can reach up to 30°C with plenty of sunshine — perfect for combining cultural visits with relaxing on stunning beaches.
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In the South (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc), it feels like summer all year round, with temperatures around 30°C. It's a great time to cruise through the lush Mekong Delta and end your trip with a beach holiday on idyllic islands.
| Our recommendation: To comfortably experience the diversity of Vietnam’s landscapes and cultures, we suggest a private tour from north to south during this period. You’ll enjoy optimal weather conditions and a festive atmosphere during the holiday season. |
Low season: from May to October
From May to October, it's the low tourist season. Temperatures are generally higher across the country, with heat peaks in June and July. It is also the monsoon season, with frequent rainfall, especially in the Central region.
This season, however, has some significant advantages:
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There are fewer people on sites, allowing for more peaceful visits.
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Flight and accommodation prices are more affordable.
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The nature is lush, with the stunning terraced rice fields in the northwest during the rice transplanting period from May to July.
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Southern beaches like Mui Ne or Phu Quoc are ideal, with little rain and temperatures around 30°C.
| Our advice: If you're traveling during this period, focus on the South and the central coast, avoiding the Center and the North, which can be prone to typhoons or flooding. A combination of Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, and an island like Phu Quoc would be perfect. |
2. Traveling in Vietnam Through the Seasons
Spring (February to April)
Spring is a very pleasant time to travel in Vietnam. Temperatures are mild, with a touch of coolness still present in the North—ideal for exploring cities like Hanoi, Ninh Binh, or enjoying a cruise in Halong Bay. It’s also the time when delicate plum blossoms bloom in the mountains of the Northwest.
In the Central region, around Hue and Hoi An, you’ll enjoy sunny weather with temperatures around 25–30°C. This is perfect for alternating between visits to cultural highlights such as the Imperial City of Hue or Hoi An’s ancient town, and relaxing on the beautiful, still-quiet beaches.
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What we love:
Attending the colorful processions of the Vesak festival (commemorating the Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death) held in temples during the full moon of May.
Discover the budget needed for a trip to Vietnam: Vietnam Travel Prices: From 15 Days to 3 Weeks
Summer (from May to July)
Summer is the peak season for international tourism.
Temperatures are high across the country, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), and humidity reaches its peak. It’s also the monsoon season, with frequent but usually short-lived downpours.
While the North may be affected by typhoons during this period, the Central and Southern regions remain great destinations. It’s the perfect time to enjoy the beautiful sandy beaches of Nha Trang, Mui Ne, or Phu Quoc. The water is warm, the seabed is ideal for snorkeling or diving, and the sunsets are absolutely stunning.
| Our tip: |
Autumn (from August to October)
Autumn is without a doubt our favorite season to travel in Vietnam! After the summer monsoons, the weather becomes milder, with pleasant temperatures around 25°C (77°F) and moderate humidity.
It’s the ideal time to explore the entire country, from North to South. In Hanoi, stroll through the maze of streets in the Old Quarter and enjoy a delicious iced coffee on a terrace. In Halong Bay, take in the crystal-clear light on a magical cruise. In the Central region, visit the gems of Hoi An and Hue under sunny skies. And end your trip in the South, where you’ll find the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City, the peaceful charm of the Mekong Delta, and relaxation on dreamy beaches.
Our favorite:
Set off to explore the mountain ethnic groups of Northern Vietnam and their ancient traditions. From late September to early October, the valleys of Sapa, Mu Cang Chai, and Ha Giang offer a stunning spectacle, with the golden yellow of the rice fields ready for harvest contrasting with the delicate pink of the buckwheat flower fields in bloom.
| A must-see: The Mid-Autumn Festival (Têt Trung Thu) on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month. The streets come alive with joyful lantern processions, and children enjoy delicious mooncakes. |
Winter (from November to February)
Winter in Vietnam holds many surprises! While the North experiences cool to cold temperatures in the mountains (it can even snow in Sapa!), the South enjoys a warm and dry climate, perfect for beach holidays.
In the North, it’s the time to immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere of Hanoi, with its many cafes and historic neighborhoods. Don’t miss the fascinating water puppet show. Then, opt for an intimate cruise in Halong Bay to enjoy the mild winter and the enchanting lights on the karst rock formations.
In the South, head to the idyllic beaches of Phu Quoc or Con Dao for a refreshing escape among coconut trees, turquoise waters, and white sand. It’s also the best time to explore the Mekong Delta by bike, winding through lush orchards and authentic villages.
| Things to know: Every year, at the end of January or beginning of February, Têt, the Lunar New Year, takes place. It’s the most important holiday for the Vietnamese. For a week, the country is buzzing with colorful traditions. However, many businesses and tourist sites also close during this period. Be sure to plan ahead! |
Learn more here: Con Dao, a complete guide to the best hotels and activities
3. Unmissable Events in Vietnam
Throughout the year, many traditional festivals and celebrations mark the rhythm of Vietnamese life. Here are a few that shouldn’t be missed:
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January/February (dates vary): Têt, Lunar New Year, the most important celebration of the year
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April (every 2 years): Hué Festival, a grand event for traditional arts
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16th day of the 2nd lunar month: Hoi An Fishermen’s Festival, featuring hundreds of lanterns on the river
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15th day of the 4th lunar month: Vesak, the Buddhist celebration of the birth, enlightenment, and death of the Buddha
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September 2: Vietnam National Day, commemorating the declaration of independence
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15th day of the 8th lunar month: Mid-Autumn Festival, with lantern parades
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December (every 2 years): Dalat Flower Festival, a major event in Vietnam's horticulture scene
| Typic Travel Tip: Incorporate one or more of these events into your itinerary to experience unforgettable moments immersed in local culture. Our team of experts will recommend the best options for you. |
In summary: Choose the right time and itinerary to make the most of your trip to Vietnam
Vietnam is a year-round destination, with each season offering its own advantages depending on the region:
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November to April: The climate is mild and sunny, perfect for a journey from North to South.
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May to October: Despite the monsoon, it’s the ideal time to enjoy the beaches, admire the terraced rice fields, and travel at a lower cost.
The best approach is to create a tailor-made itinerary based on your interests and travel period: hikes in the Northern mountains, a cruise in Halong Bay, exploring historic cities, immersion in the Mekong Delta, or relaxing on dream beaches...
Additionally, numerous festivals mark the Vietnamese calendar year-round, such as Têt and the Lantern Festival in Hoi An. Attending them is an unforgettable experience.
So, are you ready to experience Vietnam in an authentic and responsible way? Typic Travel specialists are here to guide you to privileged moments at the heart of true Vietnamese life.
Vietnam is waiting for you—take the first step!
