When to Visit Vietnam

Stretching for 1,600 kilometers from north to south, Vietnam’s weather differs from one region to the next. While Northern Vietnam enjoys four distinct seasons (spring, summer, autumn, and winter), Central and Southern Vietnam only have dry and rainy seasons. These varying weather patterns make Vietnam a year-round destination. However, March to April is widely considered the best time to visit Vietnam, as during this period, the North avoids bitter winter conditions, while the Central and Southern regions evade the worst of the rainy season downpours and typhoons. So whether you plan to explore top destinations like Hanoi in the North, Hoi An in Central Vietnam, or Ho Chi Minh City in the South, March to April offers mild temperatures and lower rainfall. This makes it the best time to experience the diversity of attractions across all regions during your Vietnam trip.Note: The weather chart above is based on the capital City, Hanoi, which falls in Northern Vietnam.

Enjoy the ethereal beauty of the Sapa Valley, bask in the sun-drenched Phu Quoc island, and witness the cascading magnificence of the Elephant Waterfalls in Dalat during your trip to Vietnam in January. Northern Vietnam sees dry and cool weather during this time, which is perfect for sightseeing and activities like hiking and cycling. Central and Southern regions enjoy mild weather conditions for exploration and beach activities. January is also one of the best times to visit Vietnam for festivals and cultural celebrations.

February is one of the best times to tour Vietnam, as the month offers an enticing blend of mild weather, cultural celebrations, and natural beauty. Despite regional variations in weather, the overall conditions are pleasant. This is the perfect time to cruise around the iconic Ha Long Bay and hike in the picturesque mountains of Ha Giang in Northern Vietnam. In Central Vietnam, you can explore the ancient town of Hoi An and the lush jungles of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Beach resorts in Southern Vietnam are also a huge draw. Read on to find out more about planning a trip to Vietnam in February.

March marks the arrival of spring in Vietnam, making it one of the best times to visit. In the north, mild temperatures and minimal rain create perfect trekking conditions around Sapa and Ninh Binh. Weather conditions in Central Vietnam are ideal for exploring Unesco sites like Hue's imperial citadel and relaxing on Hoi An's pristine beaches. And down south, it is time for island getaways to Con Dao or Phu Quoc before the wet season arrives. Taking a trip to Vietnam in March is also a great idea if you are looking to explore local culture, as the country hosts several festivals this month.

It’s late spring in Vietnam in April, with warm and pleasant weather in most parts of the country. From the lush countryside of the north to the sun-drenched beaches of south and central Vietnam, there is a wide range of destinations you can choose from. See the iconic rice terraces of Sapa Valley, indulge in beach activities in Nha Trang, or explore the historic sites in Ho Chi Minh City. No destination is off-limits. Read on to find out more about planning a trip to Vietnam in April.

Spring swings into summer in Vietnam in May, and it’s the perfect time to explore this enchanting country. Head to the mountainous region of Sapa in Northern Vietnam for a trekking adventure or explore ancient temples, colonial architecture, and bustling markets of the historic capital city, Hanoi. Delve into the imperial history of Vietnam in Hue or hit the beach in the coastal town of Quy Nhon in central Vietnam. Discover the tranquil beauty of the Mekong Delta on a cycling tour through its picturesque landscapes of rice paddies, fruit orchards, and winding waterways. From nature to culture to outdoor fun, a trip to Vietnam in May offers it all!

Seeking a summer adventure like no other? A trip to Vietnam in June is your ticket to an unforgettable experience. Let the sun guide you in the central regions as you embark on thrilling cycling adventures and unwind on dreamy beaches. But hold on tight! Mother Nature has a surprise in store for the south, where daily downpours paint the streets in a mesmerizing rain dance, adding extra excitement to your urban explorations. Take shelter in Ho Chi Minh City's captivating museums and let history's tales transport you to another time. Meanwhile, nature lovers can rejoice on a trip to Con Dao Island, where the green turtle nesting season is underway.

In July, Vietnam is in the middle of the wet monsoon season, but some parts of the country still get a substantial amount of sun to make your trip worthwhile. Beach holidays are still possible in the country's south and central coast. From the misty waters of Halong Bay in the north to the sun-drenched beaches of Phu Quoc Island in the south, a July trip to Vietnam provides a distinctive ambiance to explore natural wonders and immerse in local life. Whether you seek to cruise through limestone karsts, trek past verdant rice terraces, wander ancient imperial cities, or bask on sandy shores, July invites you to embrace Vietnam’s monsoon charm and create lasting memories.

If you are taking a trip to Vietnam in August, know this is one of the rainiest months in the country. While the north and south take most of the monsoon beating, Central Vietnam is largely dry and sees plenty of sunny days. Beach resorts like Da Nang and Nha Trang attract lots of visitors during this time of year. Northern Vietnam is wet, hot, and humid in August. While you can tour villages like Sapa and Cat Cat, hiking trails are not in their best condition. If you are traveling to Southern Vietnam, be prepared for monsoon downpours, and plan your outings when the skies are clear. You can visit Bai Xep Beach or head to the Con Dao Islands to witness the turtle-hatching season.

Despite the likelihood of rain and storms playing a spoilsport, you can still have an enjoyable vacation in Vietnam in September. As long as you have a flexible plan and largely focus your trip on land-based activities, you are all set. While South Vietnam remains damp, other regions of the country gradually see a decline in rainfall as the month progresses. Enjoy the tours of popular destinations such as the charming Old Quarter in Hanoi, the iconic Ha Long Bay, and the terraced rice fields of Sapa. You can also catch jubilant celebrations of National Independence Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival during your Vietnam trip in September.  

In October, Vietnam starts to wave goodbye to the monsoon season and welcomes autumn. Northern Vietnam has already embraced the drier weather, making it the perfect time to hike the lush landscapes of Mai Chau Valley and the Pu Luong Nature Reserve or climb to the top of Vietnam’s highest point, Fansipan Peak. In Central and South Vietnam experience the Full Moon Lantern Festival in Hoi An and explore the Marble Mountains near Da Nang as the rainy season slowly fades Use the rain in Southern Vietnam to your advantage and marvel at the raw beauty of the hidden waterfalls of Da Lat in the south. The varied weather on a Vietnam trip in October allows you to experience a variety of incredible adventures in this fascinating country.

From the stunning beaches of Phu Quoc, Phan Thiet, and Mui Ne in the south to the rugged beauty of the Central Highlands, Vietnam in November offers breathtaking attractions and natural wonders. The dry, cooler weather returns to northern Vietnam, providing excellent opportunities for hiking in the Sapa Valley and the Northern Highlands. November is also a time of cultural festivities, including the enchanting lantern festivals in places like Hoi An, allowing visitors to experience an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese traditions.If you don’t mind a little bit of rain, a trip to Vietnam in November also guarantees some serious discounts on accommodation and excursions.

As the year draws to an end, Vietnam, in December, moves towards favorable weather conditions. While Southern Vietnam welcomes the sun, packing Phú Quốc island with visitors, Central Vietnam sees only light showers, making the weather ideal for exploring the charming town of Hoi An on foot. The Northern region starts to see temperature drops by the end of the month, but you can still witness golden rice fields in Sapa Valley if you make it by mid-December. Overall, a comfortable multi-day trip to Vietnam in December can be filled with cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and festive celebrations.

Summer in Vietnam is very hot, humid, and wet all at the same time, and it lasts from July to August. So if you are planning a trip to Vietnam in the summer, focus your holiday on Central Vietnam, which remains comparatively dry during summer.Hoi An and Da Nang are among the popular summer vacation spots that offer plenty of sunshine and beach activities and Phu Quoc Island can be an alternative for travelers seeking a peaceful beach escape. Or, head to the mountain regions of Sapa and Pu Luong for hiking. Temperatures are much cooler in these parts of Vietnam during summer. If you don’t mind a bit of rain, you can also take a trip to the iconic Ha Long Bay and Ba Vi National Park. Whatever you decide, make sure to check the weather forecast to avoid disappointment.  

Beautiful landscapes and colorful culture come to life during winter in Vietnam. The winter season runs from December to April, offering visitors comfortable temperatures and unique experiences. Embark on thrilling trekking and hiking expeditions, and discover the enchanting beauty of snow-capped mountains, misty valleys, and serene lakes. Slurp on a bowl of pho or a steaming Vietnamese coffee, scourge floating markets for handmade souvenirs, or explore the Khmer temples in the Mekong Delta, a trip to Vietnam in winter is bound to be a magical experience.