When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

For an enchanting visit to Vietnam no matter the season, take a custom tour with Scott Dunn.

  • Bespoke Vietnam vacations for every season
  • Activity suggestions from award-winning travel specialists
  • A variety of experiences for any month
  • Round-the-clock support no matter the weather
Best time to visit

With its diverse climate, the weather in Vietnam changes significantly throughout the year, making choosing when to visit an important one. Whether you're interested in sunny beaches, lush landscapes, or vibrant cultural festivals, selecting the best month to visit Vietnam can greatly enhance your experience. Here, we’ll help you determine the best time to visit Vietnam, considering each season's unique experiences. Understanding Vietnam's climate is key to enjoying your journey in this remarkable country.

Monthly Climate Guide for Vietnam

, Vietnam

Average temperatures (Fahrenheit) and rainfall (mm)

Jan
76°F 7mm
Feb
79°F 6mm
Mar
82°F 11mm
Apr
87°F 18mm
May
94°F 11mm
Jun
97°F 13mm
Jul
96°F 20mm
Aug
94°F 23mm
Sep
92°F 16mm
Oct
88°F 8mm
Nov
83°F 7mm
Dec
77°F 7mm
Jan
91°F 2mm
Feb
93°F 1mm
Mar
96°F 1mm
Apr
97°F 17mm
May
96°F 14mm
Jun
94°F 13mm
Jul
92°F 17mm
Aug
92°F 16mm
Sep
92°F 19mm
Oct
91°F 17mm
Nov
92°F 10mm
Dec
90°F 7mm
Jan
93°F 1mm
Feb
95°F 1mm
Mar
98°F 1mm
Apr
99°F 5mm
May
98°F 6mm
Jun
96°F 8mm
Jul
94°F 5mm
Aug
94°F 7mm
Sep
94°F 10mm
Oct
93°F 10mm
Nov
94°F 6mm
Dec
93°F 4mm
Jan
87°F 2mm
Feb
88°F 1mm
Mar
90°F 1mm
Apr
93°F 4mm
May
94°F 8mm
Jun
93°F 13mm
Jul
91°F 23mm
Aug
89°F 19mm
Sep
90°F 19mm
Oct
87°F 16mm
Nov
88°F 8mm
Dec
87°F 8mm
Jan
71°F 10mm
Feb
78°F 9mm
Mar
84°F 16mm
Apr
87°F 24mm
May
87°F 20mm
Jun
84°F 21mm
Jul
81°F 33mm
Aug
83°F 28mm
Sep
82°F 18mm
Oct
78°F 13mm
Nov
77°F 9mm
Dec
70°F 10mm

In the North, home to Hanoi and Halong Bay, you'll experience four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) are the ideal times for a visit, boasting mild and pleasant weather – perfect for sightseeing.

The Central region, including Hue and Hoi An, enjoys a tropical climate. Here, the dry season (February to August) is the best time to visit Vietnam, offering warm, sunny days. However, the rainy season (September to January), while wet, can still be charming.

Heading South to Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta, the tropical climate persists year-round. The dry season (November to April) is typically the best time to travel to Vietnam in this region, with minimal rainfall and comfortable temperatures. The rainy season (May to October), though wet, is ideal for witnessing lush landscapes and local festivals.

Peak tourist seasons are during the winter months (December and January), attracting crowds due to the cooler weather. To avoid these crowds, consider spring or fall shoulder seasons when the country is less busy yet still offers great weather.

For those interested in outdoor activities like trekking and hiking, the best months to visit Vietnam are from September to April. This period offers cooler, drier weather, making it a good time to visit Vietnam for outdoor adventures.


Seasonal Guide for Visiting Vietnam

Vietnam doesn’t follow a typical seasonal weather pattern, but there is variation in the weather month by month, making each one suitable for different experiences, from cruises in Halong Bay to trekking in the hills.

Best Times to Go to Vietnam for Each Region

Vietnam is a destination that offers distinct experiences across its diverse regions. Each area, from the misty mountains in the North to the balmy beaches in the South, has its own unique charm and optimal visiting times.

Northern Vietnam

In Northern Vietnam, a region where history and modernity intertwine, Hanoi stands as a testament to this fascinating blend. To experience the best of this area, the best time of year to visit Vietnam is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons boast the most comfortable Vietnam weather, ideal for exploring not just Hanoi but the entire northern region. It’s an especially great time to take a luxury cruise in Ha Long Bay.

Spring in Northern Vietnam is a spectacle of blooming flowers, adding a burst of life to its already vibrant streets. Autumn, meanwhile, offers mild temperatures and less rainfall, perfect for outdoor explorations. Whether wandering through Hanoi's Old Quarter, savoring street food, or visiting the serene Trang An landscape, these months are a good time to visit Vietnam.

Be aware of the hot, humid summers and the Vietnam rainy season from May to October, which might offer a different kind of adventure for those who don't mind a bit of heat and occasional rain. 

Central Vietnam

Central Vietnam, a region that includes the enchanting cities of Hue, Hoi An, and Danang, is a tapestry of cultural richness and natural beauty. Each city promises unique experiences: Hue, with its imperial history and ancient architecture; Hoi An, known for its well-preserved Ancient Town and vibrant lantern displays; and Danang, a dynamic city with stunning beaches and modern attractions.

The best time to visit Vietnam, particularly Central Vietnam, is in the spring months of February to April. During this time, the weather in Vietnam is at its most pleasant in this region, marked by mild temperatures and lower humidity – perfect for exploring the outdoor charms of these cities.

In Hue, delve into Vietnam's royal past. In Hoi An, wander through lantern-lit streets, and in Danang, relax on sun-kissed beaches or cross the spectacular Dragon Bridge. This period avoids the intense heat and the heavy rains of the Vietnam rainy season, making it the best time to travel to Vietnam for those seeking a blend of cultural exploration and leisure.

Southern Vietnam

In Southern Vietnam, the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City and the serene Mekong Delta form a contrast that encapsulates the essence of this region. This part of Vietnam blends dynamic urban energy and tranquil rural landscapes, offering diverse experiences.

In Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, you're thrust into a world of historical landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral, bustling markets such as Ben Thanh, and remnants of the Vietnam War. The city is a hub of activity, with a nightlife that's as lively as its daytime hustle.

Just a few hours away lies the Mekong Delta, a stark contrast with its peaceful waterways and lush greenery. Here, you can cruise the delta's maze of rivers and canals, visit floating markets, and enjoy the fresh tropical fruits straight from the orchards.

When it comes to the best time to visit Vietnam, particularly Southern Vietnam, the dry season from November to April is ideal. The weather in Vietnam during these months in the south is generally sunny and warm, making it a good time to visit Vietnam to explore both urban landscapes and rural settings.

Whether soaking in the dynamic atmosphere of Ho Chi Minh City or embracing the tranquility of the Mekong Delta, Southern Vietnam offers an enriching experience, showcasing the multifaceted charm of the country. This period, avoiding the Vietnam rainy season is undoubtedly the best time to travel to Vietnam for those looking to experience its southern region's vibrant culture and scenic beauty.

Meet Our Vietnam Experts

Our team of specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure. Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made trip.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam FAQs

  • When is the best time to visit Vietnam's beaches?

    The best time of year to visit Vietnam for beaches depends on the region. For beaches in Central Vietnam, the best time to go to Vietnam is during the dry season from February to August. In Southern Vietnam, the best months to visit Vietnam for beaches are from November to April, coinciding with the dry season and good weather in Vietnam.

  • When is the best time to visit for a honeymoon?

    For a honeymoon, the best time to visit Vietnam is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) in Northern Vietnam, offering a pleasant Vietnam climate. Central Vietnam is also ideal from February to August, matching the best time to travel to Vietnam for mild weather.

  • When is the best time to visit with family?

    A family visit is great during the spring or fall, outside of the Vietnam rainy season, ensuring a good time to visit Vietnam with comfortable weather and fewer tourists.

  • When is the best time to visit Vietnam and Cambodia?

    The best time of year to travel to Vietnam and Cambodia is typically between November and April when you can expect favorable Vietnam weather and less rainfall in both countries.

  • When is the best time to visit Vietnam and Thailand?

    The best time to travel to Vietnam and Thailand would be during their respective dry seasons, generally from November to April, which is also the best time to visit Vietnam weather-wise.

  • When is the best time to visit Vietnam and India?

    To visit both Vietnam and India, aligning your trip with Vietnam's dry season (November to April) is advisable, as it's often a pleasant time in Vietnam and many parts of India, especially considering the Vietnam temperature and climate.

Call us on 212 372 7009 to start planning your vacation

Plan your Vietnam trip today
Plan your Vietnam trip today

Our team of travel specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure.

Plan your trip

Why Scott Dunn?

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Unique
Unique to You
Unique to you

  • We listen to your travel goals and craft unique trips that are personalized to you.
  • We’re with you every step of your life’s travel journey, from honeymoons to family trips and beyond.

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Service
Seamless Service
Seamless Service

  • Global offices in the UK, US, and Singapore for 24/7 seamless service.
  • We offer flexibility if your plans change so you can book with confidence and peace of mind.
     

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Collection
Carefully Curated Collection
Curated Collection

  • We’ve curated an elevated collection of accommodation, experiences, and guides.
  • Committed to fostering close global relationships to continue bringing you unique experiences.

Why SD and In the Know Icons_Luxury
Luxury in Every Sense
Luxury in every sense

  • We deliver a sense of luxury that matters most to you.
  • Awarded Condé Nast Traveler’s Top Travel Specialists in the World 12 years in a row.