Vietnam in March: Your Guide to Weather, Sights, and Practical Advice

A popular destination in Asia, a symbol of natural landscapes and the discovery of a rich cultural heritage, Vietnam is undoubtedly a dream come true. You are tired of winter; fly to this magnificent destination! But do you know what to do in Vietnam in March? Here in this article is information on the weather in Vietnam in March, the sites to visit as well as practical advice that will help you make your trip to Vietnam successful at this time.

Updated on 06-11-2024

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Table of contents

1. Vietnam weather in March
2. Best Destinations to Visit in Vietnam in March
3. Final words

1. Vietnam weather in March

The month of March is one of the good times to visit Vietnam. From a weather point of view, this month corresponds to the transition from winter to spring in the north (Hanoi, Halong Bay, Halong Bay on land), it is no longer cold. The temperature ranges from 15 to 25 degrees. At this time, the mountainous region (Sapa, Bac Ha, Ha Giang, Cao Bang...) experiences cooler weather with mist, morning drizzle, but without risk of rain. If you visit northern Vietnam, you will need warm clothes and a waterproof jacket.

In this season, the climate will also allow you to enjoy beautiful sunshine with a pleasant temperature between 25-30 degrees in the central region (Hue, Hoi An & Da Nang).

In the south (Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, Phu Quoc Island), it is the dry season, it is a little hot with sunshine and the temperature varies from 30 to 35 degrees. Impossible in these conditions to resist a walk on the beach, or a swimming or snorkeling session on the south coast. So bring sunscreen to help your trip during this period.

red lotus in chua huong — *It's cool with mist on the Yen stream near Hanoi*

2. Best Destinations to Visit in Vietnam in March

March is obviously the best time to visit the country. If you are unsure about which sites to visit in Vietnam in March, here is a list of the best destinations that will help you make the most of the charming beauty of the Land of the Dragon.

2.1 The capital of Hanoi

Hanoi, the country's capital, is considered the starting point for a trip to Vietnam. No one can deny its authentic charm and its unusual contrasts! In March, Hanoi wakes up after a long hibernation. Hanoians like to feel the arrival of spring through beautiful flowers sold by street vendors. If you come to Hanoi during these days, you will have the opportunity to deeply feel and experience this old city.

Let yourself be charmed by the scene sometimes embroidered by the white of the "sưa" flowers and grapefruit, sometimes by the purple of the orchid tree (hoa ban) sometimes by the red of the cotton tree (hoa gao). What could be better than taking walks in the flowery and captivating streets while discovering the must-see sites and the daily life of the inhabitants.

hanoi vendors — *Street flower sellers on a Hanoi street in March*

Particularly, visiting the capital of Vietnam in February and March will also allow you to attend the festivals highlighting the cultural richness with numerous festivals after Tet. The Perfume Pagoda Festival on the outskirts of Hanoi, for example, is an ideal event to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture.

2.2 The northern mountains

Located on the Laotian and Chinese borders of the country, the mountains of Northern Vietnam (Nghia Lo, Mu Cang Chai, Sapa, Bac Ha, Ha Giang, Cao Bang), are home to extremely wild and breathtaking landscapes: limestone peaks and gigantic hills as far as we can see. view, green valleys with magnificent rice terraces, small winding roads on the sides of the mountains. It is also the only region where the culture of minority ethnic groups remains strongly present: traditional villages, original customs and colorful clothes, lively weekly markets... The region remains a must for all fans of nature and ethnic culture. and trips off the beaten track…

north vietnam mountains — *The mountains of Northern Vietnam are home to extremely wild and breathtaking landscapes*

This region in March is covered with a carpet of white mist which gently embraces the mountains and small roads. When the sun rises, the fog and the sun chase each other to the end of the horizon. All become alive and glowing after coming out of the fog. The spring month par excellence, March allows flowers to bloom in many cities such as Moc Chau, Sapa and Bac Ha. The northwest region is embellished by colorful flowers: peach, plum, azaleas and orchid flowers. What striking beauty!

plum garden in bac ha — *Children of the H'Mong ethnic group play in a plum garden in Bac Ha*

>>> Check out our great northern travel ideas: Best tours in North Vietnam

2.3 Ninh Binh, The Terrestrial Halong Bay

Ninh Binh (otherwise called The Terrestrial Halong Bay) promises lots of interesting things to visit and do. Located a 2-hour drive from Halong Bay, this magnificent region is made up of mountains covered in lush vegetation all year round.

It is also one of the typical places of any trip to Vietnam. It is in this region that you will have the opportunity to take picturesque boat trips on the lakes and rivers surrounded by limestone rocks, rice fields... a number of our clients testify that the land bay is as grandiose as the maritime bay.

2.4 Hue & Hoi An – World Heritage Sites in Central Vietnam

March is one of the best months of the year to visit central Vietnam's World Heritage sites like the ancient imperial capital of Hue and Hoi An Old Town. Temperatures in March are pleasant. It's neither too hot nor too cold and humid during the day. The sun shines almost all the time and it hardly rains.

Hue, the former imperial capital : Hue being the last imperial capital of Vietnam (1802 -1945) is home to numerous cultural-historical monuments linked to feudal dynasties: citadels, palaces, tombs, temples and pagodas. A boat trip on the Perfume River to discover the imperial mausoleums, temples and pagodas will undoubtedly appeal to tourists looking for Vietnamese culture and history. Hue is also known as the “conical hat capital” with artisanal villages (conical hats, incense, etc.) and traditional villages with garden houses on the outskirts of the city.

>>> Learn more about: Hue, Vietnam: 8 Essential Questions Answered Before You Visit

imperial city of hue — *The imperial city of Hue, places of work & residence of the Nguyen kings*

Most spring festivals also take place during this time of year which invites visitors from all over the world to discover the unique heritage of Vietnam's ancient imperial city. Elaborate shows are staged at historic locations around the city. You will be able to attend cultural shows, spring markets, traditional music concerts and royal ceremonies.

hoi an street — *A small street in Hoi An old town*

Hoi An, old port town from the 16th century . An ancient legacy of a bustling port town in Southeast Asia between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An Old Town seduces visitors with its charming beauty. The architecture and decoration of this city represent the harmony between Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and French cultures. It is among the sites most appreciated by travelers with its old neighborhoods steeped in history where there are century-old houses and several small traditional silk and lantern shops... A perfect place for walks and for a discovery autonomy. The town is also attractive for its peaceful surrounding countryside and its beautiful beaches overlooking the Eastern Sea.

Discovering this city in March is the opportunity to immerse yourself in a poetic world brought to life by multicolored lanterns, yellow “tube” houses and mossy walls. Nothing better than taking walks on roads full of bright lanterns in a pleasant and temperate atmosphere without the risk of rain!

2.5 The Southern Highlands

In the southern half of the country, between Cambodia and the China Sea coast, the Highlands are located at high altitude with a temperate climate. They are known as the land of elephants and plantations of coffee trees, tea trees, rubber trees...

In this region, March rhymes with local festivals. It is the opportunity to experience the most important festivals such as the abandonment of the tomb and the cult of the genius of the fountain. Before the festival, the villagers repair and clean the fountains as well as the community house.

*Ethnic groups hold the rice festival to pay homage to the genius of rice - Photo: Duong Giang*

2.6 Ho Chi Minh City, capital of the south

Once called “the pearl of the Far East”, Ho Chi Minh City is a must in Vietnam to discover the ancient dynamic city full of character. If Hanoi evokes the quiet beauty of a capital with thousands of history, Ho Chi Minh City brings a lively but harmonious appearance between West and East

In March, Ho Chi Minh City enjoys a pleasant atmosphere with no risk of rain. This is the ideal time to discover the city's sites such as the Central Post Office, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Ben Thanh market... and its surroundings such as the Cu Chi tunnels.

>>> Also read: What to Do in Ho Chi Minh City?

2.7 Mekong Delta

In the far south of Vietnam, the Mekong Delta is an ideal world for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. The Mekong Delta is loved for its fascinating river trade, astonishing coconut production and strong presence of Khmer culture.

This half-land, half-aquatic region is a recommended destination during your trip to Vietnam in March. When you arrive there, you will have the opportunity to discover a green and peaceful land, where canals, arroyos, coconut trees, rice fields, houses, floating markets and orchards mingle.

Mekong delta travellers — *Discovery of the Mekong Delta with Kampá Tour in the dry season - Catherine Décréau and her friends*

✈️ ✈️ >>> Discover our best 2-week itineraries of Vietnam ✈️ ✈️

2.8 Southern seaside resorts

With a pleasant temperature in the air and in the water, the south of Vietnam is a true paradise for a relaxing holiday in a dream setting in March. When you're wondering what to do in southern Vietnam in March, put exploring its idyllic beaches at the top of your list.

Doc Let beach — *Doc Let Beach (Nha Trang)*

Ranked in the list of the most beautiful beaches in Southeast Asia, Nha Trang - the tropical paradise of Vietnam - never ceases to caress the soul of travelers with its stretches of white sand, its clear water, its mild atmosphere and its beautiful March sunshine. In addition to the great natural treasure, you will certainly be captivated by numerous nautical, artistic and cultural activities. After moments of rest or swimming, you can practice interesting water sports such as jet skiing, diving, snorkeling...

Mui ne beach — *Mui Ne - the kitesurfing capital of southern Vietnam*

Another famous and charming resort town in southern Vietnam, Mui Ne captivates travelers with its endless beaches, emerald water and red and yellow sand dunes resembling the Sahara desert next to the sea. Travel to Mui Done in March, it's the opportunity to discover two different types of landscapes in a few walks. You can explore the sand dunes on foot. On the other side, you can have a great time swimming or kitesurfing - a unique sporting activity in this seaside town.

*Phu Quoc Island - Photo: Quang Vinh Nguyen*

If you are looking for a mythical island on your trip to Vietnam in March, don't miss the island of Phu Quoc , the emerald pearl of Vietnam. In March, the sky and the sea intertwine creating a sublime landscape. Boasting clear turquoise water, spectacular sunsets, a lush tropical forest and, above all, stretches of white sand, the island of Phu Quoc is a perfect place to escape from everyday life and recharge your batteries.

3. Final words

Despite the meteorological difference between these 3 regions, March is considered a good season to discover Vietnam thanks to its temperate climate and pleasant temperature. If you're having trouble choosing which destination to visit during this time, take your pick from our list and start your trip!

>>> See more about things to do in Vietnam by month: