Introduce

Vietnam is a country with a wide range of weather patterns and climate zones, which makes planning a visit challenging. With its long coastline, towering mountains and vast rice paddies, the country experiences a wide range of weather conditions that can greatly impact the visitor experience. From the sweltering heat of the Mekong Delta to the chilly air of Sapa, understanding Vietnam’s weather is essential to a successful trip.

Best Time to Visit Vietnam

The ideal time to visit Vietnam depends on the experiences you are looking for. Generally, the period from November to April is considered the best time to visit the country. During this time, the weather is dry and sunny in most areas, making it ideal for sightseeing, swimming and outdoor activities. The temperature is also pleasant, ranging from 25-30 degrees Celsius.

If you want to avoid the heat and crowds, the winter months of December to February are a great choice. This is peak tourist season, the perfect time to visit popular destinations like Hanoi, Hoi An and Ha Long Bay.

Conversely, if you want to enjoy Vietnam’s beautiful beaches, the best time to visit is from April to August, when the weather is hot and the sun is shining. The low seasons (April to June and September to November) offer a good balance between weather and crowds. During these months, the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are not as heavy as in the high season.

The summer months (May to October) are typically hot and humid in most areas of Vietnam, with temperatures reaching 35 degrees Celsius and high humidity. However, there are some benefits to visiting Vietnam during the summer, such as fewer crowds and lower prices. Additionally, some festivals only take place during the summer, such as the Floating Lantern Festival in Hue.

Vietnam also hosts a rich variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year. From the vibrant Lunar New Year celebrations in January and February, to the colourful lantern festival in Hoi An in August, these events will add excitement to your trip. If you want to experience Vietnam’s unique culture and traditions, plan your trip around these events.

In addition to considering the weather, you should also pay attention to crowds and tourist density when planning your trip. Popular destinations such as Ha Long Bay and Hoi An can get very crowded during peak tourist seasons, so it is best to time your visit during the off-season when there are fewer visitors.

Climate and Climate Zones of Vietnam

Vietnam is located in Southeast Asia and has a tropical monsoon climate. The country experiences two main seasons: the rainy season from May to October and the dry season from November to April. During the rainy season, most areas of the country experience heavy rain, while the dry season is characterized by sunny, dry weather. The northern part of the country, including cities like Hanoi and Sapa, has more pronounced winters, with low temperatures and occasional frost.

Vietnam can be divided into three main climate zones: the North, the Central, and the South. The North has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons, the Central has a tropical monsoon climate, and the South has a tropical climate. The North, which includes cities like Hanoi and Sapa, experiences cold winters and hot summers. The Central, which includes cities like Hue and Da Nang, has rainy and dry seasons. The South, which includes cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang, has high temperatures and humidity year-round.

Seasons of the Year in Vietnam

Vietnam's diverse weather and climate vary by region and time of year. The northern part of Vietnam has four distinct seasons: spring, summer, autumn and winter.

• Spring (February to April):The weather is pleasant with warm temperatures, blue skies and many festivals.
• Summer (May to August):Hot and humid, with frequent rain and storms.
• Autumn (September to November):Cool and dry, with golden rice fields and blue skies.
• Winter (December to January):Cold and foggy, with occasional snow in the mountains.

The central and southern regions of Vietnam have only two seasons: dry and rainy.

• The dry season (November to April) is sunny and pleasant, with calm seas and beautiful beaches.
• The rainy season (May to October) is wet and stormy, with heavy rains and flooding.

Vietnam Weather By Region

If you want to visit the mountainous regions of Northern Vietnam, such as Sapa, Ha Giang or Mu Cang Chai, you need to know that the weather there is very different to the rest of the country. There are two seasons: dry and wet. The dry season is from October to March, and can be very cold and frosty, especially at night. The wet season is from April to September, and can be very rainy and muddy. The best time to trek or cycle in these areas is from September to November, or from March to May, when the temperatures are comfortable and the scenery is beautiful.

Northern Vietnam also includes Hanoi, Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, Mai Chau and Hai Phong. These areas have distinct winter and summer seasons. Winters are cool but mostly dry, from November to April, with average temperatures ranging from 17-22 degrees Celsius. The coldest months are from January to March. Summers are hot and humid, from May to October, with lots of rain. The wettest months are from July to September. There are occasional major storms which can affect travel to Ha Long Bay.

The central region of Vietnam is home to popular destinations such as Hoi An, Da Nang, Hue, Da Lat, Quy Nhon and Nha Trang. The weather here varies depending on location. Hoi An, Hue and Da Nang have hot and dry weather from mid-January to late August, with temperatures typically reaching around 30 degrees Celsius. Rainfall increases in the winter months, peaking in October and November, sometimes in the form of storms. Hue is generally cooler than Hoi An, especially early in the year. Sometimes the weather can be very different between the two cities as they are located on opposite sides of a mountain range.

Quy Nhon is south of Hoi An and has a similar climate but with a longer dry season. Nha Trang is further south and also has a longer dry season (January to September), with high temperatures and little rain. The rainy season is from October to early December with almost half of the annual rainfall falling in October and November. Dalat is in the Central Highlands and has a different climate to the rest of the region. It is wet from June to October and dry from November to May. It can be cold in December and January.

Southern Vietnam includes Ho Chi Minh City, the Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island, Con Dao Island, Phan Thiet, Mui Ne. Temperatures here are stable all year round, around 25-35 degrees Celsius. The climate is divided into two simple seasons: wet and dry. The dry season is from November to April or early May, with warmer temperatures and higher humidity from late February to May. The wet season is from May to early November, with June to August being the rainiest months of the year. Rain usually comes in the afternoon in heavy but short showers.

The islands of Phu Quoc and Con Dao are located in the south and can be enjoyed all year round, with sunny days most of the time. But if you visit outside the dry season, be prepared for some afternoon showers.

Vietnam Weather By Month

If you are planning to visit Vietnam, you may be wondering what the weather is like in each month. This depends on where you are going and what you want to do. Vietnam has a diverse climate, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. But don’t worry, I’ll give you an overview of what you can expect in each month, based on average weather patterns. You can also check out the holidays and events that take place in each month in Vietnam.

• January:This is a good month to enjoy dry and pleasant weather in most areas of Vietnam, except the North. The North can be quite cold, especially in the mornings and evenings. If you want to go swimming, head to Phu Quoc, where the sun is always shining. However, be aware that Ha Long Bay can be foggy this month, so you may not see the best of the scenery.
• February:The weather is warmer in most of Vietnam, except in the north, which still feels chilly. This is peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices. But it’s also a great time to experience Tet, a big celebration with lots of food, fireworks and fun. Keep in mind that many shops, museums and restaurants will be closed for about a week during Tet.
• March:This is one of the best months to visit Vietnam, as the weather is great everywhere. You have plenty of options for beach destinations, such as Mui Ne, Con Dao and Nha Trang. Hoi An is also a great place to enjoy the beach and the old town. This is also a great time to visit Ha Long Bay, where the skies are clear and there is no fog.
• April:Like March, April is also a great month to visit Vietnam, with great weather everywhere. This is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for crowds and higher prices.
• May:The weather gets hotter in May, but it’s still a good time to visit Vietnam before the rainy season starts. You can expect some rain in the north and south towards the end of the month, but it’s not too bad. You can also take advantage of lower prices after the peak season.
• June:You may encounter some rain in the north and south of Vietnam, but it’s usually not too bad. You can still enjoy sunny days in Hanoi, Mai Chau and Ha Long Bay. The best place to go is in the central region, where the weather remains dry and sunny. You can relax on the beaches of Lang Co and Hoi An, or explore the countryside and culture. This is also a good time to travel before the summer holidays start next month.
• July:Central Vietnam is still the best place to visit in July, with lots of sunshine and little rain. The rest of Vietnam may see some rain, but it won't spoil your fun.
• August:Central Vietnam is still a good place to visit in August, although you may experience some more rain towards the end of the month. The rest of Vietnam may also see some rain, but it’s not too bad. You can also get some great deals on flights and hotels during the low season.
• September:This is a good month to catch the last of the sunshine on Vietnam’s central coast before the heavy rains set in. The north and south are often very wet this month, but you can still find some great hotel deals.
• October:The weather improves in northern Vietnam in October, making it a great time to visit places like Sapa or Ha Giang. You can take in the stunning views of rice fields, valleys and mountains that change colour with the seasons. This is not a good month for beach lovers, but there is much more to Vietnam than just the beach. Travelling in October means you can avoid the crowds.
• November:The peak season starts again in November, when many people come to Vietnam to enjoy the cooler winter months in the North. By the end of the month, most of Vietnam is hot and dry again, except for the central region, which may have some rain.
• December:There is still a chance of rain in central Vietnam in December; however, most of Vietnam is hot and dry. Beach season begins again on Phu Quoc Island. You should book early for Christmas time, as it can get very busy.

List of Places to Visit and Not to Visit by Month

To help you plan your trip, this article includes a list of the best places to visit in Vietnam each month, based on weather, peak tourist seasons and cultural events. This will give you a comprehensive guide to making the most of your holiday in Vietnam.

January

• Must Visit Places:
• • Phu Quoc Island: A place with beautiful beaches and warm sunny weather.
  • Mui Ne: Famous for its sand dunes and water sports.
  • Nha Trang: A coastal city with many attractions and developed tourist services.
  • Hanoi: The capital with many historical and cultural relics.
  • Mekong Delta: Explore local life and floating markets.
  • Ban Gioc Waterfall: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam.
  • Moc Chau: A place with beautiful natural landscapes and green tea hills.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Fansipan (Sapa): Cold weather and possible fog.
  • Cat Ba Island: May experience unfavorable weather for outdoor activities.
  • Ha Giang: Cold weather and possible frost.

February

• Must Visit Places:
• • Hoi An: Ancient city with unique architecture and lantern festival.
  • Mui Ne: The weather is still nice, suitable for outdoor activities.
  • Con Dao: Island with pristine beaches and rich history.
  • Phu Quoc Island: Warm and sunny weather, ideal for swimming.
  • Hanoi: Happy Tet atmosphere and many cultural activities.
  • Mekong Delta: Explore floating markets and local life.
  • Sapa: Although cold, the beautiful scenery still attracts tourists.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Fansipan (Sapa): Cold weather and possible fog.
  • Cat Ba Island: The weather is not favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Ha Giang: Cold weather and possible frost.

March

• Must Visit Places:
• • Central Highlands (Pleiku & Gia Lai): Beautiful natural scenery and unique culture.
  • Hue: City with many historical and cultural relics.
  • Hoi An: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Da Nang: Beautiful beaches and lots of entertainment.
  • Phu Yen: Wild and peaceful natural landscape.
  • Dien Bien Phu: A place with many important historical relics.
  • Quy Nhon: Beautiful beaches and rich cuisine.
  • Ninh Thuan: A place with beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: A vibrant city with many attractions.

April

• Must Visit Places:
• • Hanoi: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Sapa: Beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Ly Son Island: A place with beautiful beaches and water sports activities.
  • Ninh Binh: Beautiful natural scenery and discovery activities.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: A vibrant city with many attractions.
  • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
  • Hue: City with many historical and cultural relics.
  • Da Nang: Beautiful beaches and lots of entertainment.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Public beaches on April 30 holiday: Can be crowded and uncomfortable.

May

• Must Visit Places:
• • Mu Cang Chai: Beautiful scenery of terraced rice fields.
  • Cat Ba Island: Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities.
  • Pu Luong: A place with beautiful natural scenery and trekking activities.
  • Ninh Binh: Beautiful natural scenery and discovery activities.
  • Nha Trang: Beautiful beaches and lots of fun activities.
  • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Public beaches on May Day: Can be crowded and uncomfortable.

June

• Must Visit Places:
• • Hue: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Da Nang: Beautiful beaches and lots of entertainment.
  • Con Dao Island: A place with pristine beaches and rich history.
  • Hoi An: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Dalat: Cool climate and beautiful natural scenery.
  • Mui Ne: Home to sand dunes and water sports.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Hanoi: Hot and humid weather.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Hot and humid weather.
  • Northwest Vietnam: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.

July

• Must Visit Places:
• • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
  • Phu Quoc Island: Warm and sunny weather, ideal for swimming.
  • Phong Nha Ke Bang: A place of majestic caves and beautiful natural scenery.
  • Dalat: Cool climate and beautiful natural scenery.
  • Con Dao Island: A place with pristine beaches and rich history.
  • Mui Ne: Home to sand dunes and water sports.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Hanoi: Hot and humid weather.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Hot and humid weather.
  • Mekong Delta: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Northwest Vietnam: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.

August

• Must Visit Places:
• • Hanoi: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
  • Hoi An: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Phong Nha Ke Bang: A place of majestic caves and beautiful natural scenery.
  • Nha Trang: Beautiful beaches and lots of fun activities.
  • Cat Ba Island: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Mui Ne: Home to sand dunes and water sports.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Mekong Delta: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Coastal beaches where storms occur: May experience bad weather.

September

• Must Visit Places:
• • Hanoi: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Sapa: Beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Mu Cang Chai: Beautiful scenery of terraced rice fields.
  • Bach Ma National Park: A place with beautiful natural scenery.
  • Hue: City with many historical and cultural relics.
  • Phu Quoc Island: Warm and sunny weather, ideal for swimming.
  • Mui Ne: Home to sand dunes and water sports.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Phong Nha Ke Bang: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Hoi An: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Coastal beaches where storms occur: May experience bad weather.

October

• Must Visit Places:
• • Ha Giang: Beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Hanoi: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Sapa: Beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Can Tho: Explore the lives of local people and floating markets.
  • Mekong Delta: Explore local life and floating markets.
  • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
  • Dalat: Cool climate and beautiful natural scenery.
  • Ba Be Lake: Natural beauty and outdoor activities.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Ban Gioc Waterfall: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Phong Nha Ke Bang: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Hoi An: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Coastal beaches where storms occur: May experience bad weather.

November

• Must Visit Places:
• • Hanoi: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing.
  • Ha Giang: Beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Sapa: Beautiful scenery and fresh air.
  • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
  • Can Tho: Explore the lives of local people and floating markets.
  • Mekong Delta: Explore local life and floating markets.
  • Moc Chau: A place with beautiful natural landscapes and green tea hills.
  • Mui Ne: Home to sand dunes and water sports.
  • Con Dao Island: A place with pristine beaches and rich history.
  • Long Hai: Beautiful beach and fresh air.
  • Ho Tram: Beautiful beach and fresh air.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: A vibrant city with many attractions.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Phong Nha Ke Bang: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Hoi An: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Coastal beaches where storms occur: May experience bad weather.

December

• Must Visit Places:
• • Moc Chau: A place with beautiful natural landscapes and green tea hills.
  • Ha Long Bay: Majestic beauty and sea tourism activities.
  • Ban Gioc Waterfall: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Vietnam.
• Do Not Visit Places:
• • Ba Be Lake: The weather is cold and may not be favorable for outdoor activities.
  • Ho Chi Minh City: Hot and humid weather.
  • Phu Quoc Island: Weather may not be favorable for outdoor activities.

Summary

The peak time to visit Vietnam would be during the festive season, from December to January. You have three major holidays, like Christmas, Lunar New Year and New Year, during this time, so there is a lot of domestic and international tourism going on.

The best time to book flights to Vietnam is during the off-peak months of April, May, October and November, with October being the cheapest month to consider. During these months, airfares are usually lower due to fewer tourists.

In summary, Vietnam is a country that stretches over 1,600 km, and as such, the weather can vary greatly depending on the region. The northern part of the country has a temperate climate while the southern part has a tropical climate. Despite this variation, spring is generally considered the best time to visit Vietnam as the weather is generally pleasant with moderate temperatures and little rain. However, during the rainy season, heavy rains and flooding can occur, and the heat and humidity in the summer can be very harsh.

Additionally, based on the information provided above, the best times to visit Vietnam for those looking to avoid crowds and high prices would be during the low seasons from late February to April and September to November. The weather is generally pleasant, and there are fewer tourists, which can make for a more authentic and enjoyable experience. For those looking to experience festivals and cultural events, planning your trip around one of Vietnam’s many festivals and cultural events can be a great way to enhance your travel experience. For beach lovers, the best time to visit would be during the dry months from March to July.

Ultimately, the best time to visit Vietnam will depend on each traveler’s preferences and priorities. By considering the information provided in this article, travelers can make smart decisions about when to plan their trip to Vietnam and make the most of their time in this beautiful country.