Thinking about traveling to Vietnam? This country is packed with culture, food, history, and jaw-dropping natural beauty. But before you start planning, there’s one big question to answer: when is the best time to visit Vietnam?
Since the country stretches over 1,600 km from north to south, the weather can change a lot depending on where you are. That means the best time to go to Vietnam really depends on which region you want to explore.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best time to visit Vietnam by region (North, Central, and South), so you can plan your trip around great weather, fun activities, and unforgettable experiences. Let’s dive into the best time to travel to Vietnam, one region at a time!
Best time to visit North Vietnam (Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Sapa)
Ha Long Bay, Vietnam
📅 March to May (Spring)
North Vietnam blooms into life during spring. With pleasant temperatures, clear skies, and low humidity, it’s an ideal time for outdoor adventures and city sightseeing. This season comes just before the summer heat, so you'll get the best of both worlds: comfortable weather and vibrant energy.
🌤️ Weather: Mostly clear skies with little rain
💰 Prices: Slowly going up as peak season gets closer
🎉 Events: More local festivals and cultural events start happening
Activities to do in North Vietnam in the spring
1. Take a Hanoi street food tour
Food spots everywhere in Hanoi’s Old Quarter
Spring is one of the best times to explore Hanoi on foot. The cooler weather means you can walk around the Old Quarter without getting too hot or tired. Join a local Hanoi Old Quarter street food tour to try tasty dishes like pho, bun cha, and the famous egg coffee.
Many tours also include visits to hidden alleys and markets that you might miss. It’s a fun and filling way to experience the city’s culture!
2. Trek through Sapa's Rice Terraces
Trekking in Sapa’s rice terraces
In spring, Sapa’s hills come alive with fresh green rice shoots. The air is clean, and the trails are less muddy than during the rainy season. It’s the ideal time to book a Sapa trekking tour to villages like Y Linh Ho, Lao Chai, and Ta Van.
You’ll get amazing views of the terraces and meet local ethnic groups. The cooler temps also make long hikes much easier and more enjoyable.
3. Cruise around Ha Long Bay
Ha Long Bay Cruise
Spring brings calm seas and clearer skies to Ha Long Bay, making it a great time to book a Ha Long Bay cruise tour. You can relax on deck, go kayaking, or even swim in the bay’s blue-green water.
The cooler weather also means fewer mosquitoes and better visibility for photos. With fewer storms and less humidity, spring cruises are much more enjoyable!
Best Time to Visit Central Vietnam (Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang)
Basket Boat Ride in Cam Thanh Coconut Village, Hoi An Credits: Klook
📅 February to April (Dry Season)
Central Vietnam shines during its dry season, which runs from February to April. This is when the weather is just right; sunny, warm, and not overly humid. This makes it perfect for relaxing on the beach, walking through ancient towns, or sightseeing at cultural landmarks.
With little rain and calm seas, it's also one of the best times to enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, snorkeling, or taking boat tours along the rivers. But, this season also marks the start of the tourist season, so you can expect more visitors and slightly higher prices, especially in beach towns!
🌤️ Weather: Dry and sunny weather
💰 Prices: Pricing going up from peak season
🎉 Events: Tet Festival, Perfume Pagoda Festival, and Hoi An Lantern Festival begin at this time
Activities to do in Central Vietnam during the dry season
1. Visit the Golden Bridge
Iconic Golden Bridge in Ba Na Hills
The dry season means clear skies and fewer clouds, so it’s the best time to go on a Ba Na Hills Day tour to see the famous Golden Bridge without fog or rain. Located high in the mountains near Da Nang, this giant hand-held bridge offers amazing photo spots and views.
You can also explore the Sun World Ba Na Hills resort, which includes gardens, cafes, and a mini French village.
2. Explore My Khe Beach
Friendly surf instructors at My Khe Beach
With sunny days and little rain, the dry season is perfect for a relaxing beach day. My Khe Beach is known for its soft white sand and clear water. You can swim, sunbathe, or try water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.
If you’re up for more adventure, you can also book My Khe Beach surfing lessons. The waves are gentle enough to learn safely, especially in the dry season when the sea is calm. There are plenty of surf schools nearby with friendly instructors and rental gear.
3. Go snorkeling in Nha Trang
Floating Party with a Nha Trang Tour
During the dry season, the sea is calmer and the water is much clearer, perfect for seeing colorful fish and coral reefs. Nha Trang’s nearby islands offer some of the best snorkeling spots in Vietnam.
Join a Nha Trang island hopping and snorkeling tour to visit places like Nha Trang Bay, National Marine Conservation Area of Coral Reef, Soi Beach, and more! It’s a fun day out with boat rides, swimming, and exploring marine life.
Best Time to Visit South Vietnam (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc)
📅 November to April (Dry Season)
The southern part of Vietnam is warm and tropical all year round, but the dry season from November to April is hands-down the best time to visit South Vietnam. During these months, you’ll enjoy blue skies, low humidity, and almost no rain, making it perfect for sightseeing, island hopping, and outdoor dining.
The comfortable weather makes it easier to explore busy cities like Ho Chi Minh City, or take long journeys through the Mekong Delta without getting caught in afternoon downpours. Plus, it’s an ideal time for beach lovers heading to Phu Quoc.
🌤️ Weather: Hot, dry, and sunny
💰 Prices: Higher prices in popular spots like Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc
🎉 Events: Major holidays like Tet Festival and fun beach events on Phu Quoc Island and in Mui Ne happen during this time
Activities to do in South Vietnam during the dry season
1. Take a river cruise in the Mekong Delta
Enjoying a coconut at Mekong Delta River Cruise
The dry season means fewer chances of rain and smoother boat rides, making it the perfect time to go on a Mekong Delta river cruise. You’ll pass along peaceful canals, visit floating markets, and see daily life in the countryside.
You’ll also get to stop by local farms and taste fresh fruits. The sunny weather makes the entire experience more relaxing and photo-friendly.
2. Explore Phu Quoc’s beaches
Clear skies and water at Sao Beach
If you’re dreaming of a beach escape, Phu Quoc is the place to go in the dry season. You’ll get clear blue skies, calm seas, and perfect beach weather. Spend your days swimming, snorkeling, or just lying on the sand.
With little rain and lots of sunshine, it’s the best time to explore beaches like Sao Beach and Thom Island without worrying about storms or muddy roads.
3. Sip cocktails at Chill Sky Bar
Cool evenings at Chill Sky Bar
Rooftop bars really shine during the dry season. Head up to Chill Sky Bar to enjoy warm, breezy evenings with stunning views of Ho Chi Minh City’s skyline. You won’t have to worry about rain, and the cooler nights are perfect for exploring.
If you’re going for drinks, music, or the view, it’s the perfect way to end a sunny day in the city!
❓ FAQs about the best time to visit Vietnam
What is the best month to visit Vietnam?
If you're looking for a sweet spot, March is often considered the best month to visit Vietnam. It offers great weather across all three regions: cool springtime in the north, dry beaches in the center, and sunny skies in the south.
Which is the cheapest time to visit Vietnam?
Traveling during the rainy or off-season, usually May to September, often comes with lower prices for flights and hotels. While you may get a bit of rain, you’ll also find fewer crowds and great travel deals.
What is the rainy season in Vietnam?
The rainy season differs by region. In the north and south, it usually runs from May to October. In central Vietnam, the rainy season often happens later, from September to December. Don’t worry though, rain usually comes in short bursts, not all day!
Which months should I not visit Vietnam?
There really isn’t a “bad” time to visit, but if you want to avoid heavy rain and possible typhoons, skip September and October in central Vietnam. These months can bring storms, especially to cities like Hue and Da Nang.
Ready to Plan Your Vietnam Adventure?
Cruising through Ha Long Bay, snorkeling in Nha Trang, or sipping iced coffee in Ho Chi Minh City, your perfect Vietnam trip all comes down to where you want to go and what kind of vibe you're after.
For sunshine and beach days, aim for Central or South Vietnam between February and April. If you’re into cool weather and scenic mountain views, North Vietnam is at its best from March to May. Anytime you go, you’ll find incredible food, stunning landscapes, and memorable adventures waiting!
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