Best time to visit Vietnam
A month-by-month guide of when to visit Vietnam
Vietnam’s varied climate means the best time to visit depends on where you’re going and what you want to do. Broadly, the country can be visited year-round, but conditions vary across the north, central, and southern regions.
North Vietnam (Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay) is best in spring (March – April) and autumn (September – November), when the weather is mild, skies are clear, and humidity is lower – ideal for sightseeing and trekking.
Central Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An, Da Nang) sees its best weather from May to August, with sunny days and little rainfall along the coast. Avoid the wetter months from September to December, especially if you’re planning beach time.
South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc) is warm year-round, with the dry season from November to April offering the most comfortable conditions for exploring cities and river life. Expect hot and humid weather at other times.
If you’re keen on cultural experiences, consider travelling during Tet (Lunar New Year) – usually in January or February – though bear in mind that services can be limited and transport busy during the holiday.
For trekking in the northern highlands, opt for spring or autumn. For beach holidays, central and southern Vietnam in the dry season is your best bet. And for exploring cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, spring and autumn offer the most pleasant weather.
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January
January is a pleasant time to explore Vietnam. In the north, temperatures hover around 17-22°C (63-72°F), making it ideal for Hanoi and Halong Bay. Central regions are mild, and the south enjoys warm, dry weather, with temperatures around 27-32°C (81-89°F). Lunar New Year (Tet) celebrations can cause crowded transportation, but it's an extraordinary cultural experience.
February
February continues the pleasant weather in the south, with temperatures ranging from 27-33°C (81-91°F). The north is cool and dry, with temperatures around 17-23°C (63-73°F). Tet celebrations are in full swing. Central Vietnam starts to experience warmer weather, making it an excellent time for beach destinations like Hoi An and Nha Trang.
March
March is a fantastic time to visit Vietnam. In the north, temperatures are around 18-24°C (64-75°F). The central region enjoys mild weather, with temperatures ranging from 24-30°C (75-86°F), ideal for exploring historic sites. The south remains warm and dry, with temperatures between 28-34°C (82-93°F).
April
April brings pleasant weather throughout Vietnam. In the north, temperatures range from 21-29°C (70-84°F), with blooming flowers. Central regions are warm, and great for outdoor activities. The south experiences warm temperatures, around 28-35°C (82-95°F). However, it's essential to note that this is a peak tourist season
May
May sees rising temperatures in the north, with averages of 24-32°C (75-89°F). Central Vietnam remains warm, perfect for beach vacations. In the south, temperatures are around 29-35°C (84-95°F). This month marks the beginning of the wet season in the north, while central and southern regions enjoy dry weather.
June
June sees wet weather in the north, with temperatures ranging from 26-34°C (79-93°F). Central Vietnam's beaches continue to be popular. In the south, it's warm and humid, with temperatures around 28-34°C (82-93°F). This is the low season in the north, making it less crowded for travellers
July
July is characterized by heavy rain in the north, with temperatures of 28-36°C (82-97°F). Central regions still offer ideal beach weather, and the south remains hot and wet, with temperatures around 28-34°C (82-93°F). This is a low season in the north and an excellent time to find discounts on accommodation.
August
August brings more rain to the north, with temperatures ranging from 26-34°C (79-93°F). Central Vietnam remains sunny and dry, with great beach conditions. The south continues to experience hot and humid weather, around 28-34°C (82-93°F). The low season in the north extends, offering budget-friendly options for travellers.
September
September continues the wet season in the north, with temperatures of 26-33°C (79-91°F). Central regions remain sunny and pleasant for beach vacations. In the south, it's warm and wet, with temperatures around 27-33°C (81-91°F).
October
October marks the end of the wet season in the north, with temperatures around 23-30°C (73-86°F). Central Vietnam continues to enjoy beach weather, while the south experiences warm temperatures and occasional rain, around 27-32°C (81-89°F). The north starts to see more tourists.
November
November is a great time to visit Vietnam. In the north, temperatures range from 19-27°C (66-81°F), with pleasant weather. Central Vietnam's beaches are still enjoyable, and the south remains warm and dry, with temperatures around 27-32°C (81-89°F).
December
December is another ideal month for visiting Vietnam. In the north, temperatures hover around 17-23°C (63-73°F). Central regions are mild, and the south enjoys warm, dry weather, with temperatures around 27-32°C (81-89°F). This month offers an excellent opportunity to explore all regions of the country with comfortable weather conditions.
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