When is the Best Time to Visit Vietnam?

Largely, Vietnam’s weather is split into dry and rainy seasons, which differ slightly from the north to the south of the country. The dry season brings hot temperatures and humidity in places, while in the rainy season, you can expect tropical downpours, flooding and even typhoons.

The central region of Vietnam (Hue, Hoi An and Nha Trang) has a tropical climate. The dry season is from March to August when the maximum temperature can reach 40°C. Then there is the colder, rainy season, from September to January, when temperatures can drop to 20°C and lower. The best time to travel to Vietnam’s central areas, including its beaches, is between February and April before the heat becomes too intense and the rains arrive.

North Vietnam’s rainy season is between July and September when you will get intense downpours and possibly typhoons. May and June are often very hot and humid, while December to February brings cold temperatures (as low as 10°C) and drizzle. This makes February to April, and September to November the best times to visit places like Hanoi, Halong Bay and Mai Chau. During these dryer months, the temperatures range from 15°C to 30°C depending on where exactly you are.

Southern Vietnam is hot year-round, with an average annual temperature of 27°C. The best time to visit is from December to April as this is the dry season with only occasional rain. The weather in Vietnam is hottest there in April/May and coolest in December. May to November is the wet season with showers almost every day and flooding in the Mekong Delta can occur.

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…

Whether you want winter sun on a desert island or to soak up the culture of Vietnam’s captivating cities, there’s a good time of year for everything.

Beach Lovers

Vietnam in July is one of the best times to head to the central beaches near Hoi An and Hue, which have idyllic weather from March to August. Temperatures in the high 30s and little rainfall are perfect for sunbathing, water sports and general relaxation. Make your way to the likes of Six Senses Ninh Van Bay, which is great for families and honeymooners alike or Zannier Hotels Bai San Ho set in a pristine tropical bay. Further south, beach lovers will be in their element between January and April, when hot, dry days and calm waters are excellent for diving and snorkelling in Con Dao or Phu Quoc. Vietnam’s beaches are framed by lush jungles and turquoise waters, and with the tropical weather, plus top-notch five-star hotels, we highly recommend tagging on a few days of relaxation to the end of a tour of Vietnam.

Visiting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City

Travelling from the south to the north of Vietnam is a classic itinerary which allows you to take in the highlights of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh and everything that’s in between. The best time of year to visit Vietnam for this kind of cultural experience is from December to April, when temperatures range from the mid-20s to mid-30s, making it relatively cooler than other times of year and ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Visitors heading to Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam, can explore popular attractions such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and the Old Quarter. The city also comes alive with festive decorations during the festive season, offering a unique atmosphere in December. Similarly, the bustling city of Ho Chi Minh City is home to a multitude of cultural and historical sites like the War Remnants Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Reunification Palace. Exploring these attractions during the cooler months during Vietnam’s dry season is definitely a more enjoyable experience than when it’s hot and humid.

Food enthusiasts will be very happy in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh too, trying out local delicacies like pho, banh mi, and fresh spring rolls. While vibrant markets, such as the Dong Xuan Market in Hanoi and the Ben Thanh Market in Ho Chi Minh are also well worth a visit this time of year.

Avoiding Crowds

The best time to go to Vietnam to avoid the crowds is between April and June and between September and November. The busiest times are December and January – particularly over the festive period – and July and August, which is Vietnam’s summer and when lots of people go to the beach. Heading to the most popular places, such as Halong Bay, in October/November helps make the most of the beauty and tranquillity of the place, without it being overwhelmed with tourists, and you still get good weather.

Travelling during off-peak periods gives you more flexibility in terms of accommodation options. You'll be able to find better deals and have a wider range of choices when it comes to hotels and resorts. Additionally, visiting Vietnam during the shoulder seasons means you'll have a more authentic experience, with the opportunity to interact with locals on a deeper level and get a better understanding of the culture and way of life without crowds.

Visit during Typhoon Season

Vietnam is a beautiful destination to explore, but it's important to be aware of the typhoon season when planning your trip. The rainy season typically occurs from May to November, with the highest risk of typhoons between July and October, depending on where you’re travelling to. During this period, Vietnam’s weather can include heavy rainfall, strong winds, and potential flooding, which might disrupt travel plans and pose safety risks. However, not everywhere is affected and it can be hard to predict just how heavy the downpours will be. Halong Bay, for example, is best avoided during typhoon season, but the central coastal beaches are usually dry at this time of year.

Talk to your travel expert who will plan your itinerary around the best time to travel to Vietnam.