The Best Time to Visit Vietnam: A Monthly Guide

BY JARED DILLINGHAM

I thought a lot about how to structure this post for people trying to plan a trip, based on the best time to visit Vietnam.

There’s no clear, easy answer to fit all travelers’ priorities, budgets, and tolerance for rain and humidity! Add to that: Vietnam is such a lengthy country (north to south) that it includes different climates in different regions.

Ultimately, I decided to organize the post into three sections, broken down:

By season
By region of Vietnam
By month, giving the pros and cons of each

THE BEST TIME TO VISIT VIETNAM

The Best Tours in Vietnam

If you’re thinking about a visit to Vietnam, these are my favorite (top-rated) tours from the two biggest cities: Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon):

🇻🇳 Click to Book: Ho Chi Minh to Mekong Delta

Bike and boat through islands and villages in the Mekong River.

🇻🇳 Click to Book: Hanoi to Halong Bay

One night cruise in one of the most beautiful places on Earth!

🇻🇳 Click to Book: Hanoi to Ninh Binh

Tour a stunning rural area south of Hanoi.

The best time to visit Vietnam's northern region

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam by Season

Generally speaking, the winter and early spring months are the most pleasant, weather-wise, to visit Vietnam.

Dry Season (November to April):

Best Time for Most Regions: The dry season is generally the best time to visit most of Vietnam. You’ll typically have lower humidity, cooler temperatures, and minimal rainfall.
Ideal for Northern Vietnam: Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, is especially pleasant during the dry season.

Cooler Months (December to February):

Ideal for Central Vietnam: Central Vietnam, including cities like Hue, Da Nang, and Hoi An, experiences cooler and drier weather during these months.

Hot and Dry Months (March to April):

Ideal for Southern Vietnam: Southern Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and the Mekong Delta, experiences warm, dry weather during these months. It’s a great time for exploring the southern regions and enjoying the beaches.

Rainy Season (May to October):

Great for Northern and Central Highlands Trekking: May to October is the rainy season, with the heaviest rainfall occurring from June to August. While this may not be the best time for most tourists, it’s still a decent time for trekking in the northern mountainous regions (Sapa).
Good for Rice Terraces: If you want to see lush rice terraces in northern areas like Sapa and Mu Cang Chai, they’re greenest during the rainy season.

Typhoon Season (July to November):

Beach Resorts: Avoid in Central Vietnam: Typhoons can affect central coastal areas like Da Nang and Hoi An from September to November. If you plan to visit these regions, avoid the peak typhoon season.

The Best Time to Visit North Vietnam

The best time to visit North Vietnam, including destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, is typically during the dry season, which spans from November to April.

November: November offers cooler and dry weather with clear skies, making it an excellent time to explore North Vietnam. The landscapes are still lush. Temperatures range from 63°F – 79°F.
December: December continues to bring cool and dry conditions. The holiday season brings a festive atmosphere to major cities like Hanoi, with Christmas and New Year celebrations. Temperatures range from 57°F – 70°F.
January: January is considered one of the best months to visit North Vietnam. The weather is cool and dry, so it’s a good time for hiking, cruising in Halong Bay, and exploring Hanoi. Temperatures range from 57°F – 68°F.
February: February continues the dry and pleasant weather, making it a good time for exploring the region. Temperatures range from 59°F – 68°F.
March: March offers comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall. It’s still a good time for hiking, without the heat, humidity, and rainfall. Temperatures range from 63°F – 73°F.
April: April marks the end of the dry season in North Vietnam. While temperatures start to rise, it’s still a good time for outdoor activities, especially in the earlier part of the month. Temperatures range from 70°F – 82°F.

Keep in mind: popular destinations can get crowded during the peak tourist season, so booking accommodations and tours in advance is advisable.

If you prefer smaller crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder months of November and April, which still offer favorable weather conditions but with fewer tourists.

The Best Time to Visit South Vietnam

The best time to visit South Vietnam, including destinations like Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), the Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc, depends on your preferences for weather and activities.

South Vietnam experiences a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Here are the considerations for each season:

Dry Season (November to April)

This is generally considered the best time to visit South Vietnam. During this period, the weather is dry, sunny, and less humid.

November to February: These months offer the most comfortable weather in terms of lower humidity and cooler temperatures. It’s a great time for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and beach vacations. Temperatures range from 70°F – 90°F.
March and April: While temperatures start to rise in March and April, they’re still relatively pleasant. It’s still generally a good time to visit South Vietnam, but be prepared for warmer weather in April. Temperatures range from 73°F – 95°F.

Rainy Season (May to October)

South Vietnam’s rainy season brings higher humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. However, there are some advantages to visiting Vietnam during this period:

May and June: These months are a transition period from the dry to the rainy season. While there can be occasional rain showers, it’s still possible to enjoy your visit with fewer tourists and lush, green landscapes. Temperatures range from 79°F – 93°F.
July and August: These months typically see the most rainfall, especially in the Mekong Delta. However, the rains often come in short, intense bursts. The days are rarely total washouts. Temperatures range from 79°F – 91°F.
September and October: Toward the end of the rainy season, rainfall starts to decrease, and the weather becomes more pleasant. Tourist crowds are still far smaller, and hotel prices are likely to be lower. Temperatures range from 75°F – 90°F.

When planning your visit to South Vietnam, it’s essential to consider your tolerance for humidity and rain. If you want to enjoy comfortable weather with minimal rainfall and plan to spend time at the beach, November to February is the best time.

If you don’t mind occasional rain showers and prefer fewer crowds and lower hotel rates, consider visiting during the shoulder months of May, June, September, or October.

The Best Time to Visit Vietnam by Month

Vietnam in January

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 14°C – 20°C (57°F – 68°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 21°C – 32°C (70°F – 90°F)

Vietnam in January offers excellent weather, which is deal for hiking, sightseeing, and beach vacations. Just be prepared for higher prices and larger tourist crowds.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in January:

Ideal Weather: January is considered one of the best months to visit Vietnam in terms of weather. It’s the dry season in most regions, offering cooler and comfortable temperatures with minimal rainfall.
Perfect for Northern Vietnam: Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, experiences cool and dry weather in January.
Good for Cultural Exploration: The dry and pleasant weather in January is ideal for exploring temples, pagodas, and villages.
Beach Resorts: Southern Vietnam, including popular beach destinations like Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, experiences dry and sunny weather in January, making it an excellent time for beach vacations.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in January:

Peak Tourist Season: January is part of the peak tourist season in Vietnam. Popular destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City can get crowded.
Limited Availability: Booking accommodations and tours in advance is advisable, as the most sought-after options can fill up quickly during January.
Higher Prices: Due to high demand from tourists, you may find that prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are relatively higher in January compared to other times of the year.

Vietnam in February

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 15°C – 20°C (59°F – 68°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 22°C – 33°C (72°F – 91°F)

Weather-wise, February is another great month to visit Vietnam! Just book things early, since it’s still considered “peak tourist season.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in February:

Good Weather: February is generally considered one of the best months to visit Vietnam in terms of weather. It falls within the dry season in most regions, meaning comfortable temperatures with minimal rainfall.
Perfect for Northern Vietnam: Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, experiences cool and dry weather in February.
Beach Resorts in Southern Vietnam: Southern Vietnam, including popular beach destinations like Phan Thiet, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, experiences dry and sunny weather in February, making it a good time to visit the beach.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in February:

Peak Tourist Season: February is part of the peak tourist season in Vietnam, especially during the Tet holiday. Popular destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City can get crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive.
Limited Availability: Booking accommodations and tours in advance is advisable, as the most sought-after options can fill up quickly during February, particularly around Tet.
Higher Prices: Due to high demand from tourists and Tet celebrations, you may find that prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are relatively higher in February compared to other times of the year.
Holiday Closures: Some businesses and shops may close for several days during Tet, so you should plan accordingly and check the specific holiday dates for each year.

Vietnam in March

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 17°C – 23°C (63°F – 73°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 23°C – 34°C (73°F – 93°F)

Similar to February, March is still a busy and popular time for tourists to visit Vietnam. The weather is generally pretty good, so just book your hotels, tours, and cruises early to make sure the ones you want have availability.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in March:

Pleasant Weather: March is generally a great time to visit Vietnam as it falls in the dry season for most regions. The weather is warm and comfortable with minimal rainfall.
Ideal for Northern Vietnam: Northern Vietnam, including Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sapa, experiences pleasant weather in March. It’s a perfect time for trekking and exploring the northern landscapes without the discomfort of heat or rain.
Beach Destinations: Coastal areas in Central and Southern Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, enjoy warm and sunny weather, making it a great time for beach vacations.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in March:

Peak Tourist Season: March is part of the peak tourist season in Vietnam, especially around the mid-March school holiday. Popular destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City can get crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive.
Limited Availability: Booking accommodations and tours in advance is advisable, as the most sought-after options can fill up quickly during March, particularly around the school holiday.
Higher Prices: Due to high demand from tourists, you may find that prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are relatively higher in March compared to other times of the year.

Vietnam in April

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 21°C – 28°C (70°F – 82°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 25°C – 35°C (77°F – 95°F)

Vietnam experiences warm weather in April, making it a great time. to visit. Just be prepared for higher temperatures down south (especially in the latter half of the month) and occasional rain showers.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in April:

Warm Weather: April is known for warm weather throughout Vietnam. It’s generally a good time for outdoor activities, if you’re okay with the heat in the south.
Ideal for Beach Vacations: Coastal areas in Central and Southern Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, enjoy warm and sunny weather in April, making it a perfect time for beach vacations and water activities.
Blooming Landscapes: April is the time when many flowers and trees are in full bloom, creating vibrant and colorful landscapes in various parts of the country.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in April:

Hot Temperatures: While the warm weather can be enjoyable, it can also become quite hot, especially in South Vietnam.
Risk of Seasonal Showers: While April is generally dry, there can be occasional afternoon showers, particularly in the central and northern regions. These showers are typically brief but can impact outdoor activities.

Vietnam in May

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 24°C – 32°C (75°F – 90°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 26°C – 35°C (79°F – 95°F)

May can be a good time to visit Vietnam, especially in the northern and central regions where the weather is generally pleasant. However, if you plan to visit the southern part of the country, be prepared for the heat and some rain.

Overall, May is a good option for travelers who want to enjoy Vietnam with fewer crowds but are willing to tolerate some variability in weather conditions.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in May:

Warm Weather: May offers warm and pleasant weather in most parts of Vietnam, making it a good time for outdoor activities, if you’re okay with the heat.
Beach Weather: Coastal areas in Central and Southern Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, enjoy warm and sunny weather in May, making it a good time for beach vacations.
Smaller Tourist Crowds: While May is still part of the dry season, it’s not as crowded as the peak months of December to April. You’ll find fewer tourists at popular attractions.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in May:

Beginning of the Rainy Season: May marks the start of the rainy season in North Vietnam, including Hanoi and Halong Bay. While the south and central regions remain relatively dry, northern areas can experience occasional rain showers and increasing humidity.
High Temperatures: In May, temperatures can become quite hot, especially in South Vietnam. High temperatures and humidity can be uncomfortable for some travelers.
Insects: The warmer and more humid weather can lead to increased insect activity, so be prepared for mosquitoes and other insects in some areas.

Vietnam in June

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 26°C – 33°C (79°F – 91°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 26°C – 34°C (79°F – 93°F)

June can be a good time to visit Vietnam if you plan your itinerary according to the region’s weather patterns. Central Vietnam offers favorable conditions for beach vacations, while Northern and Southern Vietnam may have some challenges due to rain.

If you don’t mind occasional rain, plus heat and humidity, June in Vietnam usually has smaller tourist crowds and lower prices at hotels.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in June:

Warm Weather: June offers summer-like weather throughout Vietnam.
Smaller Crowds: June falls outside the peak tourist season, so you’ll find fewer tourists at popular attractions, making for a more peaceful travel experience.
Lower Prices: Prices at hotels tend to drop this time of year in Vietnam. The same is true for Mekong River cruises.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in June:

Rainy Season: June marks the beginning of the rainy season in northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and Halong Bay. Expect frequent and sometimes heavy rain showers, along with increased humidity.
Heat and Humidity: In June, temperatures can become quite hot and humid, especially in southern regions. This can make outdoor activities uncomfortable for some travelers.

Vietnam in July

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 26°C – 32°C (79°F – 90°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 26°C – 33°C (79°F – 91°F)

July brings good beach weather in Central Vietnam, but more rain and humidity in Northern and Southern Vietnam.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in July:

Beach Weather: Coastal areas in Central and Southern Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, experience warm and sunny weather in July, making it an excellent time for beach vacations and water activities.
Lower Tourist Crowds: July falls outside the peak tourist season, so you’ll find fewer tourists at popular attractions.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in July:

Rainy Season in the North: July is part of the rainy season in northern Vietnam, including Hanoi and Halong Bay. Expect frequent and sometimes heavy rain showers, along with increased humidity.
Heat and Humidity: In July, temperatures can become quite hot and humid, especially in southern regions.

Vietnam in August

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 26°C – 32°C (79°F – 90°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 26°C – 33°C (79°F – 91°F)

In August, Central Vietnam is good for beach lovers, while Northern Vietnam offers lush landscapes despite some rain. However, if you’re planning to explore the southern part of the country, be prepared for wet conditions.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in August:

Beach Vacations: Coastal areas in Central and Southern Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, experience warm and sunny weather in August, making it an excellent time for beach vacations and water activities.
Smaller Crowds: August falls outside the peak tourist season, so you’ll find fewer tourists at popular attractions.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in August:

Rainy Season: Expect frequent and sometimes heavy rain showers, along with increased humidity.
Heat and Humidity: In August, temperatures can become quite hot and humid, especially in southern regions.

While August offers is usually a good time for beach vacations, beware of the potential for typhoons, and the high temperatures and humidity, especially in the south.

Vietnam in September

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 24°C – 31°C (75°F – 88°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 25°C – 32°C (77°F – 90°F)

September marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season in Vietnam. Rainfall decreases significantly this time of year, and the overall weather becomes more pleasant.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in September:

Transition to Dry Season: September marks the transition from the rainy season to the dry season in northern and central Vietnam. While the south may still experience some rainfall, the weather begins to improve overall.
Small Crowds: September falls outside the peak tourist season, so you’ll find fewer tourists.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in September:

Continued Rainfall in the South: While the northern and central regions are transitioning to the dry season, the southern regions, including Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, may still experience occasional rainfall in September. The days usually aren’t total washouts. Instead, you’re likely to have a strong afternoon shower.
Heat and Humidity: In September, temperatures can still be quite hot and humid.
Risk of Typhoons: September is within the typhoon season, but of course it’s impossible to plan a trip around a future possible storm.

September is a good time for travelers who want to avoid large crowds and don’t mind adapting to weather variations.

Vietnam in October

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 21°C – 29°C (70°F – 84°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 24°C – 32°C (75°F – 90°F)

October brings more pleasant weather to Vietnam. The heat and (some of the) humidity are largely gone from most areas.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in October:

Ideal Weather: October is generally considered one of the best months to visit Vietnam in terms of weather. It offers pleasant, cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall in most regions.
Outdoor Exploration: The dry and pleasant weather in October is suitable for exploring cultural and historical sites, such as temples, pagodas, and traditional villages.
Beach Vacations: Coastal areas in Central and Southern Vietnam, such as Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, enjoy warm and sunny weather in October.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in October:

Crowds: October still isn’t “peak” season, but the crowds are increasing. Make sure to book any tours or cruises early.
Higher Prices: Due to high demand from tourists, you may find that prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are relatively higher in October compared to other times of the year.

October is a great time to visit Vietnam, but be prepared for higher prices and larger tourist crowds, especially in popular destinations. Booking accommodations and activities in advance can help ensure a smoother trip during this peak tourist season.

Vietnam in November

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 17°C – 26°C (63°F – 79°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 23°C – 32°C (73°F – 90°F)

November is a great time to visit Vietnam, weather-wise. You’ll run into larger tourist crowds, so just make sure to book tours and cruises early.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in November:

Ideal Weather: November is considered one of the best months to visit Vietnam in terms of weather. It offers pleasant temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall in most regions.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in November:

Peak Tourist Season: November is part of the peak tourist season in Vietnam. Popular destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City can get crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive.
Limited Availability: Booking accommodations and tours in advance is advisable, as the most sought-after options can fill up quickly during November.
Higher Prices: Due to high demand from tourists, you may find that prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are relatively higher in November compared to other times of the year.

Vietnam’s weather in November makes it one of the best times to explore the country comfortably. It’s ideal for a wide range of activities, from cultural exploration to beach vacations. Just be prepared for bigger crowds and higher prices.

Vietnam in December

Temperatures in North Vietnam: 14°C – 21°C (57°F – 70°F)
Temperatures in South Vietnam: 22°C – 31°C (72°F – 88°F)

December is also a festive month in Vietnam, with various celebrations and holiday decorations. However, keep in mind that it’s a popular travel month, so accommodations and attractions may be busier than during the low season.

Pros of Visiting Vietnam in December:

Cool and Dry Weather: December is one of the best months to visit Vietnam in terms of weather. Most regions experience cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration. The dry and pleasant weather in December is suitable for exploring cultural and historical sites, such as temples, pagodas, and traditional villages.
Festive Atmosphere: December is the month of Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and you can experience festive decorations and celebrations, especially in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Cons of Visiting Vietnam in December:

Peak Tourist Season: December is part of the peak tourist season in Vietnam, especially during the Christmas and New Year holidays. Popular destinations like Hanoi, Halong Bay, Hoi An, and Ho Chi Minh City can get crowded, and accommodations may be more expensive.
Higher Prices: Due to high demand from tourists and the holiday season, you may find that prices for accommodations, flights, and tours are relatively higher in December compared to other times of the year.

Visiting Vietnam in December offers excellent weather conditions, making it one of the best times to explore the country comfortably. Just be prepared for higher prices and larger crowds, especially during the holidays.