Vietnam in October: Weather, Travel Tips, and Must-See Attractions

While vacations are often associated with summer, it is also possible to plan a trip during the off-season. October has a particular appeal, especially in certain regions of Vietnam. It has become the new trendy month to go on vacation with family or friends and enjoy dream destinations at attractive rates.

But where to go and what are the best sites to prioritize for a stay in October? Follow our guide below to find out!

Written by Hung DAO (Local Expert) Updated on 05-06-2024

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A Fall Getaway to Vietnam: The Perfect Plan!

Marking the end of the "high season," October is one of the best times to travel to Vietnam. You can peacefully enjoy your vacation without the risk of being jostled at the entrance of tourist sites. Most travelers have returned home or gone back to work, which means fewer crowds. Consequently, hotel prices, airfare, cruises, and activities see their prices drop.

During autumn, not only does the number of tourists decrease, but the temperatures also become more pleasant. The summer heat is gone, and we are far from the winter cold, especially in the north and center of Vietnam. Autumn is known for offering the most beautiful landscapes. The falling red-orange leaves, the blooming of a thousand flowers... Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture these unforgettable memories. In addition to the favorable climate and idyllic landscapes, autumn is also marked by numerous festivals across Vietnam, notably the Moon Festival or Tet Trung Thu in Vietnamese.

This festival is very important for the Vietnamese and takes place on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, which usually corresponds to September or October in the solar calendar. Plan your trip to Vietnam between September and mid-October to immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Mid-Autumn, watch unicorn performances, participate in children's games, and enjoy delicious mooncakes.

Don’t forget the Katé Festival, the largest celebration of the Cham ethnic groups in Central Vietnam, which takes place over three days in early October. It’s an excellent opportunity for visitors to discover the beauty of Cham culture, from architecture and costumes to musical instruments and traditional songs.

In southern Vietnam, October also comes alive with the colorful boat races of the Oc Om Boc Festival. This festival is organized by the Khmer community in the Mekong Delta on the 15th day of the 10th lunar month, typically falling at the end of October or in November in the solar calendar.

Vietnam's Weather Overview for October

When planning a trip to Vietnam, it's essential to consider the country's weather conditions. The weather in Vietnam varies from region to region. Here is an overview of the weather characteristics if you are planning to visit Vietnam in October.

The northern part of the country

Hanoi, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Sapa, Lao Cai, Cao Bang, Yen Bai, Ha Giang, Mai Chau, Moc Chau, Pu Luong, etc..

October is one of the best months to visit northern Vietnam, with a really mild climate. Temperatures can be cool early in the morning or at night, but the weather is sunny and dry, offering an incredible blue sky in almost all regions of the North. With an average temperature of around 28°C, it's ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, biking, or even swimming without too much fatigue.

If you wish to admire the stunning rice terraces of Northern Vietnam, it's recommended to visit earlier in September, when the landscapes offer spectacular views of endless terraced fields in vibrant yellow. Towards late September, ethnic minorities begin harvesting the rice, and the terraced fields gradually empty out until early October.

>>> Explore the breathtaking beauty of the mountainous regions through our Northern Vietnam Tours

The central region

Quang Binh, Hue, Da Nang, Hoi An,..

The central region of Vietnam is influenced by the climate of the North. It experiences pleasant temperatures ranging from 25 to 31°C. However, storms and floods can occur, though less frequently compared to previous months. The weather alternates between sunny days and occasional showers, so it is advisable to bring a light raincoat or umbrella.

The southern region of the country

Nha Trang, Mui Ne, Phan Thiet, Ho Chi Minh City, Con Dao Island, Phu Quoc Island, the provinces of the Mekong Delta

In southern Vietnam, this period marks the transition between the rainy season and the dry season. The climate is generally hot and humid. Temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C, with an average of about 28°C.

October marks the end of the rainy season in southern Vietnam, making it a favorable time for tourism. The frequency and duration of rainfall have significantly decreased, but as we are still in the rainy season, the air remains fresh, helping to alleviate the intense heat and allowing for comfortable travel. Additionally, after the rainy season, river levels remain high, promoting agricultural activities, and floating markets are bustling.

Embark on an adventure in the South and create unforgettable memories by exploring the fertile Mekong Delta, as well as relaxing on the idyllic beaches of the East Sea and the Gulf of Thailand. Discover our Beach Holiday Tours in Vietnam

Top Destinations in Northern Vietnam

The capital of Hanoi

Visiting Hanoi in autumn is an enchanting experience not to be missed during your stay in Vietnam. Autumn in Hanoi is both beautiful and romantic, with very pleasant weather. The sun is gentle and accompanied by a light breeze, highlighting the spectacular beauty of nature bathed in the golden rays of autumn. Bicycle vendors carry beautiful bouquets of multicolored flowers, and the stalls are full of fresh fruits.

In addition to the picturesque beauty of this ancient capital, with its 36 old streets, the traditional pottery village of Bat Trang, the Long Bien Bridge, the One Pillar Pagoda, Hoan Kiem Lake, the Opera House, and St. Joseph's Cathedral, which is a replica of the famous Notre Dame Cathedral, Hanoi is also renowned for its unique culinary culture.

Visitors are fascinated by the delicious dishes of the city, such as phở (traditional beef noodle soup), bun cha (grilled meat vermicelli), banh cuon (Vietnamese dumplings), banh com (pounded sticky rice wrapped in a lotus leaf), and many more. You are guaranteed to have memorable culinary experiences this October. Learn more about: Hanoi Travel Guide: 9 Must-Knows to Save Before Your Trip [2024 UPDATED]

Sapa & Bac Ha

As the rains fade away and the sun makes its return, it offers a perfect opportunity to visit Sapa. Even outside the rice season, this destination remains captivating with its walks through ethnic villages, allowing you to meet local residents and discover their way of life.

Sapa is renowned for its spectacular mountain landscapes, colorful ethnic minorities, and tranquil atmosphere, providing a true escape from urban hustle and bustle. For a deeper exploration of Sapa, hiking remains the best way to discover the fabulous terraced rice landscapes of the region and to connect with the various ethnic communities inhabiting these majestic mountains.

About 100 kilometers from Sapa, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Bac Ha ethnic market. This market has long been recognized as one of the most unique markets in Lao Cai province, offering a glimpse into the traditional cultural characteristics and lively life of ethnic communities such as the Mong, Tay, Nung, Dao, Phu La, to name a few. Beyond its commercial aspect, the Bac Ha market provides a valuable opportunity to meet different ethnic minorities and explore their rich and diverse culture.

Ha Giang: The Buckwheat Flower Season

On a journey northward in October, it would be a pity to miss the opportunity to behold the first blossoms of buckwheat in Ha Giang. During this time of the year, these flowers adorn themselves in a dazzling purity of white, interspersed with touches of light violet that blanket the hills, creating the illusion of being lost in a fairy-tale world.

However, Ha Giang is not limited to its impressive hill of buckwheat flowers. This province, bordering China, is brimming with breathtaking natural treasures amidst a stunning mountainous landscape, featuring lush valleys and awe-inspiring rock formations. You will also be captivated by the cultural richness of the ethnic communities that inhabit these lands, with their unique traditions, colorful costumes, and warm hospitality.

The Valleys of Moc Chau

Ha Giang is renowned for its buckwheat flowers, but Moc Chau offers magnificent fields of white mustard that embrace the village amidst the mountains and forests of the Northwest. From late October to early November, as winter begins to settle in Moc Chau, the white mustard flowers gradually bloom.

Moreover, you can admire wild yellow sunflowers, vibrant with vitality, swaying in the autumn sky, blending with the misty hues. The entire mountainous region then seems to transform into a carpet of colorful flowers, creating a true wonderland.

Ban Gioc Waterfall

Ban Gioc Waterfall is the largest natural waterfall in Vietnam, and the fourth largest in the world, with a height of 30 meters and a width of more than 300 meters. It offers a natural landscape of exceptional beauty. October is the ideal time to visit Ban Gioc Waterfall, as the water is at its peak after the rainy season.

The clear water of the Quay Son River flows from a height of more than 30 meters, creating a curtain of living water that rushes down the rocks below. Surrounded by the majestic green forests of the mountains, this waterfall appears as a true fairy paradise, captivating the hearts of the many tourists who come to this place.

Ba Be Lake

Located in Bac Kan province, Ba Be Lake is a freshwater lake ranked among the hundred largest freshwater lakes in the world. It is situated within Ba Be National Park, a recognized national tourist area in Vietnam. This lake was formed over 200 million years ago, as a result of tectonic geological processes.

Ba Be Lake enjoys natural favor, offering a cool climate and perfect harmony between rivers and mountains, allowing visitors to enjoy this enchanting place in any season of the year. The autumn days of October are particularly intriguing for exploring Ba Be Lake. During this time, the lake is adorned with a mysterious beauty, shrouded in captivating mist. When visiting Ba Be, you will have the opportunity to explore many famous sites such as Puong Cave, Hua Ma Cave, and Dau Dang Waterfall.

Halong Bay, Bai Tu Long Bay, and Lan Ha Bay

Halong Bay is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized multiple times for its natural beauty, boasting over 2,000 islands that form a spectacular and lively landscape. This location is abundant with magnificent scenery, making it an extremely attractive tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors.

As for Lan Ha Bay, often considered the younger sister of Halong Bay, it is appreciated for its preserved and tranquil beauty. With over 400 islands and islets emerging from the sea, it offers stunning coves. When visiting Lan Ha Bay, travelers will feel completely immersed in nature, experiencing the daily life of local fishermen.

In autumn, the sea adorns itself with crystal-clear blue hues, the air is pleasant, creating ideal conditions for enjoying one or two-day cruises in these extraordinary bays. Northern Vietnam is brimming with captivating destinations that allure all travelers.

>>> Discover the wonder of the world here: Halong Bay

Where to travel in the central region?

In central Vietnam, the northeast monsoon reaches its peak, bringing heavy storms, persistent rains, and floods up to knee or even waist level, especially in Hoi An. Average temperatures hover around 24-27°C. Although there may be sunny periods, it's not the ideal time for beach vacations.

It's advisable to consider the weather conditions when planning your trip to this region in October. If you're looking for sunny beach holidays, it's best to choose another time of year to visit central Vietnam.

Discovering Southern Vietnam: Key Attractions

The Mekong Delta, a true fluvial paradise, is woven with a complex network of canals and waterways, creating a labyrinthine enchantment. In October, after the rainy season, water from the upper Mekong River flows into the rivers of the delta provinces, resulting in a flood season. It's a perfect opportunity to enjoy a beautiful boat ride along the canals of the Mekong Delta, to explore the local life and unique wildlife of this region.

Among the must-do activities in the Mekong Delta, a picturesque boat ride along the small canals is a must. This immersive experience will immerse you in the heart of this fascinating vegetal universe and allow you to meet a warm population, flourishing thanks to the generosity of nature. The provinces of Ben Tre, Vinh Long, and My Tho are particularly conducive to this discovery.

Visiting the floating markets is another must-do experience when exploring the Mekong Delta. Don't miss out on the Cai Rang floating market, one of Can Tho's iconic sites. Every morning, hundreds of boats of all sizes engage in a dizzying choreography, where commercial exchanges between boats are incessant, providing a unique spectacle.

However, the must-do activities are not limited to these. Discover here other unforgettable experiences to have in the Mekong Delta

Our Final Words

In short, October is an ideal month to visit Vietnam. Indeed, it is not the peak tourist season like in summer, which means that tourist sites will not be too crowded, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip. Moreover, October is one of the most affordable months to travel to Vietnam, making it a financially advantageous period.

With the information shared on weather conditions, tourism, and recommended itineraries for Vietnam in October, we hope you can design your own program by choosing what suits you best.